The Ultimate Vacation Packing Guide

Vacations are tons of fun but the packing before is usually more tedious. However, there is an apparent science to packing that frequent travelers learn over time.

Strategically packing can save you time, money and streamline your traveling experience with luggage. Here are six clever packing tips to implement.

1. Suitcase Size Matters

When traveling packing light is imperative but the bigger the suitcase is the more tempting it is to overpack. Thus, picking a suitcase is important.

To avoid the temptation of overpacking, pick out a hard-sided suitcase. Try to stick to one that is about 22 inches tall with a structured shell as this will limit the space available.

2. The 5,4,3,2,1 Rule

Going away for a week? Here's a pro rule to streamline your wardrobe. Stick to the 5, 4, 3, 2, 1 rule that is designed for weeklong trips.

The rule says to pack five sets of socks and underwear, four tops, three bottoms, two pairs of shoes and one hat. It can be slightly adjusted to suit your specific needs. Don't forget to add in a swimsuit, exercise gear, suit jacket or dress if you will need it on your trip.

3.Have A List & Stick To It

“Think twice about everything you want to put in your bag. Fully get rid of the ‘just in case I need it’ category. If and when you need it, you can buy it.”

Ben Nickel-D’Andrea, writer for part of the BoardingArea blogger network.

A brilliant way to ensure you only take the essentials is to have a strict list of what you will need. Stick to the list and don't add extra items to it. There are many pre-written packing lists available online for first-time travelers who are worried they may forget something important.

4. Play Tetris

Remember Tetris? To fit everything into one bag you need to channel the game and fill every inch of space. From stuffing socks into your footwear to putting shoes heel to toe at the bottom of your suitcase (inside a plastic bag to keep your clothes clean) can help maximize the space in the suitcase.

Always be strategic about your packing. Other tips include rolling your clothes (which also minimizes wrinkles), Use packing cubes and the .

5.Clear Bag Liquid

“Toiletries should always be placed on top of your suitcase in a clear bag since you never know when T.S.A. might be interested in looking,”

said Matthew Klint, a frequent flier and the award expert at .

6. Keep Toiletries Packed

“I recommend keeping a separate toiletry kit for traveling.”

said Marie Kondo, author of “The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up: The Japanese Art of Decluttering and Organizing.”

She went on to explain that having a set of bathroom products packed ensures you don't forget essentials like a toothbrush or contact solution that you will also need to use the day you leave for your trip. Also streamline your cosmetics by opting for all-in-one options like BB creams, which combine foundation, moisturizer, and sunblock. Pack them into double plastics to protect your clothes from spills.