Organizing for a trip can sometimes be a daunting task. Part I of our new  series - Packing 101  will  break down this task into smaller steps so your trip will be a breeze. Here's the scoop!  I typically drag out my trusty legal pad and start with a list. Being organized from the start helps you zero in on exactly what you need to bring,so no over packing!  I list each day of the trip. This way, I start to create a map of  everything  I will need on  the trip.  This hopefully  eliminates any airport  drama like " Yikes,I forgot my sneakers!!!  I am sure you can fill in your  own packing disasters, because we all have them. In the next step you will begin to fill in the map and by the last step you'll be ready to pack it up.

•  STEP 1  SEE IT- Before you write anything down, look at your trip visually.  What kinds of activities are you going to be doing? City sightseeing,museum/gallery visits?  What  types of outdoor activities will you be doing?? Hiking, golfing, biking,surfing, swimming?  How many days will the trip take?  Mixing business with pleasure??  Any formal dinners, special events?  Group each of your activities on the map. You can then arrange them by the day you want to do them. This is a great time to jot down any ideas from this  brainstorming session. Maybe there is a restaurant you want to try or a museum you want to visit at your destination...so write it down,so you don't forget!
  

•  STEP 2  PLAN IT- Down  the left side of your legal pad list all the days of your trip. On the far right side note all the activities you plan to do,and any special gear you may need to bring along (camera, day pack, tennis racquet)  You can then arrange  them by the day you want to do them.  The middle of the page is your description area to fill with Planning  your wardrobe,accessories,and extra items.  You can then check off  the items as your packing.

•  STEP 3  PACK IT-  By now in this process you will have a good idea of what you will need to pack. Your core basics; pants,skirts,jackets should be in a coordinating assortment of neutral colors like, black, dark indigo or navy, and white or brown,black,cream.  Think.... skinny  black jeans. They are perfect for a day into night look  with just a couple of added accessories you are good to go!  Add a colorful jacket and tops that can mix and match and you have just doubled your travel wardrobe with not a lot of effort.