Every woman packs differently for a trip, both in what they bring and how they pack it. Trial and error is the best way to discover what works best for you. Just know that you are going to forget something you need and bring some things you won't even use. Remember, you can buy what you need in the majority of places that you go.

There are thousands of packing tips, but here are a few to get you started:

• Pack Light. Never, never, never pack more than you can carry by yourself. Most of the time you will be the only one lugging - and watching - your stuff. You never know when you will have to run through the airport or run to catch a train. You don't want to exhaust yourself before you even get to your destination.
• Mix and Match. Bring one skirt, one pair of black pants, one pair of jeans (or shorts to a location with warm temperatures), a sweater or light jacket and a bunch of cotton shirts.
• Limit the number of shoes. Two should be enough - one for walking and one for dress. Sandals work well to wear on the plane because they are easy to remove at the security gate and on the airplane. Bring shoes that are comfortable for walking - lots of walking. Before you leave home, walk several miles in any footwear you will be taking to be sure they are broken in.
• Wash in Woolite. Avoid the hotel laundry or outside Laundromats by washing your clothes in Woolite. You'll find it easier to pack light when you know you can easily wash what you have in the hotel room sink. Wash before you go to bed and things will be dry by morning.
• Don't be Cheap. Invest in good, solid, durable luggage with good sturdy handles. If your bag looks like every other traveler, mark it in some way that you will recognize when it comes down the conveyor belt - bright yarn or ribbon will work.
• Don't forget the souvenirs. If you intend to buy things on your trip, either leave room in your bags before you leave or pack an extra bag that you can fill with goodies and check on the flight home.
• Sleep is important. If you are going to be traveling by plane or train, you will probably want to nap or sleep. These three things are absolutely essential: a neck pillow, an eye mask, and ear plugs. And the last two will also come in handy when you are trying to sleep in a noisy city or if the light is shining in your room.

Pack your bags and come along on a trip with City Lights Travel Club. For more information, visit our website at www.citylightstravelclub.com or call Becky Wilcox at 303-432-3188.