Whether packing for a three week tour of Europe or an overnight camping trip, packing strategically means starting with the essentials. It is important to pack enough clothes for several situations as well as plenty of food and water.

To determine how many pairs of clothes necessary to bring, determine how long the travel will take and whether or not a laundromat will be accessible. If there is a laundromat and the trip is more than a week, pack a week’s worth of clothes. But if the trip is any shorter, pre-planning an outfit for each day of the trip will work fine. To pack clothes most efficiently, set each outfit up with a complete set of socks and undergarments, and roll each outfit separately for everyday of the trip. This will keep outfits organized and leave space for other necessities. Keep two pairs of shoes together on the inside wall of a suitcase or duffel bag to keep them out of the way of clean clothes and pack a bag for dirty clothes. Junior Jake White agrees.

“Keeping your clothes rolled up or folded army-style is the best way to save room in a small suitcase,” said White.

Food is of course a must have in any situation. Pack a couple days worth of peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, some apples, a refillable water bottle and a couple gallons of water in the trunk. Extra snacks are a good idea, too.

For toiletries and shower supplies, pack small makeup bags. Then, put the makeup bags in Ziploc bags to prevent spills from ruining any clothes. Finally, don’t forget shower shoes and a towel.

If camping, pack a small tent. Splurging and buying the biggest tent in the store is unnecessary because a simple one or two person tent will do just fine. Be sure to pack a sleeping bag and pillow as well as device chargers.

Thanks to these terrific tips, packing hasn’t been easier. Bon voyage!