Packing 101: Don't Freefall into Your Next Vacation

Tis the season for traveling! Whether you are taking a short trip home or a family vacation out of town, packing can be stressful.  When I was younger, I would procrastinate-staying up all night running around like a crazy person and I was notorious for forgetting something-just a mess!  Now it takes me a week to get everything prepped for packing. 
Step 1: Figure out the bag—not too big, not too small, but the perfect size to fit all of things you think you will need but probably won’t use on vacation.  I personally tend to over pack so this step is the most important one for me.  I make my decision on which bag/bags I am going to carry and I pack accordingly.  If you are taking a trip over a week, I recommend a medium/large suitcase and a carry-on.
Step 2: Pack your toiletry bag.  Call me what you want, but I just can't with hotel toiletries.  They dry my skin and there is never enough.  Plus Target’s toiletry collect is EVERTHING!!!  It has everything from my Dr. Bronner's soap to Jergens Ultra Healing Extra Dry Skin Moisturizer (yes honey my skin gets crunchy too). 
Step 3: Get organized.  Set aside your undergarments, outfits, shoes, etc.  This is a crucial step.  Think about what you are going to be doing, the weather of your destination of your trip, and how your outfits are going to photograph.  You want to be comfortable and cute but most importantly, don't forget your pajamas!   
Step 4: Shoes and accessories…honestly my least favorite step.  I am the worst at matching shoes with clothes with jewelry; it is just too much for me.  I try and over pack these items so my friends and family can help me mix, match, and accessorize.
Step 5: Makeup and miscellaneous.  Don’t forget your passport, identification, makeup, and headphones.