You’ve heard it all before. “Travel light,” they say. “Put everything you own in a carry-on,” they yell. “Cut baggage fees and don’t be a fool,” we all yelled at each other. Did you know? We are fine.

Paying baggage fees at the airport sucks. (Why can’t they just add those fees to the ticket and not bother us with this luggage nonsense?) When we travel, we’re supposed to throw a week’s worth of clothes into a handbag or “shoulder bag” and be done with it. But how?

Here are some tips to make the most of limited space for air travel:

Make a list:

Before you leave, make a quick list of all the fun activities you’ll be doing. Decide right there what outfits you will wear. (Most likely, you already have a good idea of ​​what you’re taking.) Make notes of the different items of clothing that each outing will require. That way, you’ll cut down on extra (read: unnecessary) laundry, or as I call them: ‘stinky’ laundry.

While you’re in the mood to make a list, be sure to write down any items you won’t use at least once. Obviously, if you have a big party that calls for that giant hoop dress or 16-piece suit, by all means, take it. Make use of outfit combinations to maximize outfits. It can also help if you don’t sweat in them. (I’m just saying… don’t do it)

Wash the clothes. If you are in a hotel that has a dry cleaning service or a small laundry inside, make the most of it. It will also help if you plan your wardrobe in terms of light, colors and shades. Wash and repeat.

That’s great, but what about family trips?

Well, to be honest, it’s a bit more expensive for a traveling family, but there are ways to cut costs. If your children are old enough, ask them to choose the clothes they want to wear and take them to the living room. Before we all go crazy over the mess, have your youngsters sort them out.

This is where the magic happens. Load a single bag with just shoes, load another with outerwear (coats, jackets, hats, gloves, etc.) and extras like cell phone chargers, portable DVD players, and toiletries.

For the third case, pack every day in order with your pajamas on top. This should reduce hotel room clutter and help keep things organized in the face of family chaos. Also, be sure to bring a garbage bag for dirty clothes. This will help separate clean from dirty clothes and make your home laundry trip an express train.

The final step: have a great time! It’s vacation!