Whether you're heading out for a long-anticipated vacation or going to a business meeting in another city, the following packing advice will make preparing for your trip much easier:

• Make a packing list. When it comes to packing, procrastinators fall short. Start your packing process days or even weeks ahead of your departure date; this gives you time to craft a complete list, plus purchase any additional items you might need for your vacation.
• Roll, don't fold. Many travel experts agree that rolling is superior to folding. Tightly rolled clothes take up less space than folded ones. Plus, they're less prone to getting deep wrinkles from fold creases.
• Research your airline's policies. If you're going to be flying, it can save you hassle - and money - to take a peek at your airline's website and read its baggage policy. And make sure that you understand the Transportation Security Administration's (TSA) 3-1-1 rule for carry-on luggage, which can be found atwww.tsa.gov/traveler-information/3-1-1-carry-ons.
• Be versatile. To avoid over-packing, select clothes in neutral colors that you can mix and match, and pack shoes that can be worn with multiple outfits. Also, be sure to check the weather at your destination before you leave, and pack accordingly. If the weather deviates significantly from the forecast, you can always buy a sweater, hoodie or rain poncho.