It’s summer, which means summer vacation! Whether you are heading up to the mountains of Asheville for a long weekend, or heading to one of the busy cities Charleston flies to direct, everyone needs some travel tricks and tips.

Do you know how to properly pack a suitcase? I didn’t even know there was a wrong and right way to pack until I read GQ’s 10 Rules for a Perfectly Packed Suitcase.

I’m heading out of town this weekend, and I have no idea what to pack! While I haven’t found a lot of fashion inspiration for a 70-year-old’s birthday party in the country, I did find a lot of packing tips. 

Tip #1: Lay out everything, then edit it down. (GQ)

I’m guilty of over packing and then wearing the same three things all weekend. When you don’t know what to wear to an event, it’s easier to just throw everything you own into a bag and decide what to wear later. But, if you lay everything out, you can delete duplicate items from your packing list.

Tip #2: Rolling vs Folding (Gizmodo)

Are you a roller or a folder? Folded clothes are less likely to wrinkle but take up more space. Rolled clothes will wrinkle but use up a fraction of your valuable packing space.

Solution: Use both methods. Fold the clothes that you need for a special event or that will definitely wrinkle. Roll things like your jammies, lounge clothes, undies, and other wrinkle-resistant materials.

Tip #3: Plan around your shoes first (Thrillist)

According to Thrillist, your shoes should be at the bottom of the totem pole (OUTRAGE!), but it makes sense. Your shoes do take up the most space in your suitcase, especially if you are bringing boots, tennis shoes, or heels.

Tip #4: Never unpack your toiletries (New York Times)

If you keep a set of bathroom products already packed, you have a lower chance of forgetting something essential – like toothpaste! Bonus tip: If you keep your travel liquids pre-packed in a plastic bag, you’ll be ready for TSA without scrambling at security.

Tip #5: Stay fresh (skyscanner)

You probably head to the bathroom and freshen up as soon as you arrive at your destination. It’s healthy to wash off all of those travel germs. Don’t your clothes deserve the same treatment? Keep your clothes smelling fresh by packing dryer sheets. It’ll also help with the static.

Happy Travels!