Fishing Frenzy

Packing for a trip shouldn't be as difficult as we make it. Here are some tips that might help on your next flight, cruise or road trip. How many times have you gotten to your destination and thought, Oh, I should have brought my . . . fill in the blank? It happens, but it you plan properly, you'll have just what you need - and want.

There are many benefits to taking a carry-on vs. checking your bag. For one, no one is rummaging through your neatly packed things. You don't have to stand in the line to check your bags - and you don't have pay a per bag fee, which is required by most all airlines now. There's a movie called the "Accidental Tourist" where the star, played by William Hurt, writes travel books about his travels. He knows exactly how to pack, what to take and what not to take. I've always aspired to be like him; I'm still learning!

Frequent travelers usually get skilled at packing and some of the best are flight attendants. After all, they are trained to pack! They know what to take and how to put it all together in their suitcase so it won't wrinkle. They take the right clothes for the right occasion.

You'll want to travel with garments that travel well, ones that won't wrinkle and ones that will be easy to coordinate with other pieces. Black pants, for example, can be matched with any color top or sweater. Shop at stores that specialize in lightweight, easy clothing such as REI or TravelSmith. Think about where you're going and the activities you'll engage in once you're there. Then, pack for those specific events. Lay your things on the bed before packing and if something isn't going to be worn, leave it at home.

Take along some healthy snacks when you pack. One of the best tips I got from an airline pilot is some good French bread and a tightly-sealed container of olive oil for dipping. Tuck things (like your container of olive oil) inside your shoes to make room for other items. Be ruthless; imagine yourself in your outfits, doing what you'll be doing when you arrive. If it doesn't fit that image, don't pack it!