There are a lot of packing lists out there on the internet, but the fact is that everyone has different needs. Packing for a trip by plane offers its own challenges because you are limited by space, weight and what you’re allowed to bring. Where you’re going, what you’re doing and just your preferences in general will also affect what and how you pack. A better way to approach packing in general might be to think in terms of categories.

Leisure Items

Lots of travel advice focuses on packing light and taking only what you know you’ll need. But most of us have a few things that we just wouldn’t feel comfortable without, whether that’s an e-reader or a couple of books, a pair of running shoes or some comforting object that reminds us of home. You could also buy yourself something special that you know will make you feel more comfortable in an unfamiliar place. For example, if you like to vape, you could pick up a new portable vaporizer. The Mighty vaporizer has really set the standard for portable vaporizers over the last six years. It’s easy to use and it offers a stellar experience, but there’s limited stock, so you should look into getting one quickly. Other options might be a comfortable pair of bedroom slippers or a great new outfit to wear to dinner.

Carry-On Items

This might or might not overlap with your leisure items and also depends on what the airline you’re flying with allows. Your carry-on item might just be a laptop, or maybe you want to bring more things, such as snacks and a book to read. Be sure that you also have any paperwork that you require in your carry-on. Your life will also be easier if you throw in a change of clothes, something to sleep in and a toothbrush in case your luggage is delayed. This is all stuff you can buy at the other end, but on arrival after a long flight and waiting on luggage to no avail, you won’t really feel like going shopping. Even if you are headed to an all-inclusive resort in Italy, you will still need clothes and a toothbrush on you if your main luggage is lost in transit.

Clothes

It’s important to strategize when it comes to clothes. First, get some compression bags. This will make packing a lot easier and will allow you to get more things into less space. All the same, you should think in terms of how versatile your choices can be. Each item of clothing should, at minimum, be able to do double duty, and if it can’t, you should think about leaving it at home. Of course, every rule has its exceptions. If your vacation is going to be ruined if you don’t bring that one outfit that is really only appropriate for a night out at a club you have planned, go ahead and bring it, but try to be ruthless with the rest of your choices.

Extras

Accessories can be a great way to keep from getting bored and update a basic outfit with a limited number of things to wear. You can only take small amounts of liquids and gels on the plane, so depending on the length of your trip, where you’re going and how soon you’ll need those items, you might just want to skip bringing them and pick up what you need at the other end.