Forgetting something important is one of top pet peeves of a traveler. Leaving a plane ticket at home or even a personal hygiene kit for overseas travel can ruin the whole mood of the trip. In the attempt not to forget anything, we take it to the other extreme by bringing almost everything.

If there is one rule in traveling which overshadows all the others, it would be to pack smart. Packing lightly doesn't mean that you should leave or forget to take the essential items. So it is very important to 'plan before you pack'. Know what activities you have scheduled, and bring items that correspond to them. If you are attending a weekend conference, then there is no need to bring sneakers, unless of course you're taking a short tour.

Before you start packing everything on your dresser, ask yourself: why do I need this? Can I get one of these locally? Remember that the heavier the luggage is, the more inconvenient it is to move around. This is one of the top reasons why you should peruse travel packing tips.

How should you pack your bags exactly, and what should you bring? Here are a couple of travel advice you can utilize when you go travel abroad or even locally.

Never forget your medical kit. It doesn't have to be extensive, just bring the basics like band aids, aspirin, etc.

Bring soap, shampoo, cotton buds, comb, dental supplies, a shaving kit (for men) and sanitary supplies (for women) just in case the hotel doesn't have or can't provide enough. Toiletries should be as compact as possible, and must be packed in seal able plastic bags to protect your clothes against spillage.

Once you've sorted out the things you need to bring, start packing. But how do you make the most of the space while at the same time avoiding excessive wrinkling of your clothes? Here are the 3 ways to pack your suitcase:

1. The Rolling Method: Lay your clothing on the floor, and then partially fold them. Fold your pants in half lengthwise while shirts should have their arms neatly to the back. Starting from the bottom of your clothing, roll it until you reach the end. Place heavier items on the bottom and your underwear and socks can go inside your shoes.

2. The Stacking Method: This is probably the most common method. Stack all the unfolded clothes together, starting with the most easily wrinkled. Fold them all together and out in your suitcase. Shirts go on the bottom, then pants or dresses. Fit your shoes in the empty spaces of your suitcase along with the toiletries and accessories.

3. The Daily Plan Method: Plan what you want to wear everyday and put each outfit in its own re usable plastic bag. You can use the rolling method to stack the clothes inside the luggage.