1.     Check your airline's baggage size and weight restrictions before packing.

2.     Never pack more than you can easily carry by yourself--you don't want to be struggling through the airport as you hurry to catch a plane.

3.     Pack heavier items on the bottom of your suitcase, and place items that you might need right away -- like pajamas and a toothbrush -- on the top

4.     Try to choose the right size suitcase for your clothes--too crowded? --your clothes will be crushed. Too much space left over?--your clothes will slide around too much. A good idea might be to fill the extra space with tissue paper.

5.     Keeping a packing list in your suitcase also helps to alleviate the hassle of thinking of what to pack each time you travel. A helpful idea might be to have a list for business and one for pleasure travel.

6.     Pack valuables and necessities in carry-on luggage, not checked baggage.

7.     Transfer toiletries and cosmetics into plastic containers to avoid breakage. A good idea may be to have a toiletry bag packed and ready to go, filled with travel sized containers of your favorite items.

8.     Place shoes into plastic bags to keep them from soiling other items. Soft items, such as socks, etc. may be placed inside of other crushable items, to help keep their shape.

9.     Hanging your wrinkled clothing in a steamy bathroom helps to "iron out" the wrinkles.

10.   Luggage tags with your address clearly marked should be placed on the outside as well as the inside. Use your business address if possible, so as not to lead possible thieves to your home.

11.   Packing an extra empty lightweight bag might come in handy if you plan to bring home more than you take.

1.     Before you pack, check the condition of your luggage. Airlines can refuse to accept fragile or damaged pieces.

2.     If you have to purchase new bags, choose luggage that is lightweight, roomy and easy to carry, yet durable enough to withstand rough treatment. Choose material that will not sag or rip as it moves along the conveyor belt and be sure that each piece has a secure lock. Keep the keys on your person or in your hand luggage.

3.     A suitcase with wheels or a baggage caddy will also help make trips through the airport, bus terminal or train station easier, especially if porters are not available.

4.     Baggage restrictions may vary from flight to flight depending on the design and passenger load of each plane, but a good rule of thumb is two bags per person. Try to limit your luggage to one suitcase and a carry-on bag. Most of the new carry-on baggage restrictions do not apply to purses, coats, diaper bags, or camera equipment, but they often do apply to briefcases.

The flight attendant has the final say as to whether your bags can be taken on board as carry-on luggage or whether the baggage must be checked as cargo.