True confession of a professional traveler: Packing is the bane of my existence! As sometimes happens, I happen to be really good at something I really, truly hate. Maybe it’s because I put too much pressure on myself, or maybe it’s because I actually try too hard, but either way, I’ve got good news for you: I’m sharing my tried-and-true strategies to make planning your travel wardrobe as easy as buying that dream plane ticket. No capsule collections and no monochromatics required!

Know What You’re Doing

Are you snowboarding? Hiking? Surfing? Going to dinner and a show? It seems obvious, but sometimes it needs to be pointed out: To pack well, know what you’re packing for. Need to pack a ball gown, just in case? Um, no. You’ll know if you need to pack a ball gown. Going to Hawai’i, but not really into going in the ocean? Leave the snorkel gear behind (if you change your mind, you can rent some!). Know you’ll be out in the city all day and then go straight to dinner without time for a wardrobe change? Plan to bring versatile clothes that go from day to night. Think ahead, and know what you’re getting yourself into. It’s amazing how that will help you narrow down your options and make packing less overwhelming.

Read next: The Best Bags for All Your Travels

Follow the Rule of Threes

What’s the Rule of Threes? Pack no more than three of anything (the exceptions are undies and socks). Three tops, three bottoms, three dresses, three of anything will be enough, as long as they can all go together. Yes, you’ll be re-wearing some, if not all, of your clothes. Remember that you can always to a quick wash in the shower or sink if needed, or even use your hotel’s laundry service in a pinch. I had to do that on our second day in Egypt due to stubborn stains on my white sweater, and not only was it less expensive than anticipated, it was so worth it! Another trick I love is travel size Wrinkle Releaser Clothing Spray. It pulls double duty and lets you go a little longer without needing to wash!

Keep reading: The 5 Best Ways to Wear Leggings

Don’t “Match;” Coordinate Instead

Unless you’re buying a complete outfit all at once, matching is actually kind of hard! Shades that differ just a little bit absolutely clash or just look less than exact. Instead, plan to coordinate with colors that go together. This does not mean you have to base every outfit on black! I love colors and patterns, and while black is an easy way to make those pop, you can 100% coordinate your colors and patterns for a less basic look. As long as all your pieces can coordinate with each other, you’ll have a ton of outfits to choose from on your trip.

Read on: The Pros and Cons of Traveling Carry-on Only

Accessories are Your BFF

You might be surprised at just how drastically an outfit can change with the right accessory, or accessories. And what’s better? Accessories take up less space and are lighter than extra outfits you might otherwise pack! Think statement necklaces, dangling earrings, chunky bracelets, hats, and scarves. I love scarves! They can give you a splash of color that completely changes your look. Whether you take a long pashmina, a big square scarf (Audrey Hepburn-style), or a smaller hair scarf for a bit of fun, you can absolutely change up your travel wardrobe with the right combination of accessories.

More here: The Best 3 Ways to Wear a Square Scarf

Rethink Your Shoe Strategy

All requests for me to surrender my Woman Card can go in the comment section of this post! I’m about to tell you something that separates the seasoned travelers from the beginners: We limit the number of shoes we pack. Again, stick to that Rule of Three mentioned above, and honestly, if you’re going to a city (as opposed to a beach), you can totally get away with just one packed pair of shoes. Crazy, right? But it’s true! If I’m visiting a city, I’ll pack one pair of “nice” shoes, like sandals or flats, and I’ll wear my sneakers on the travel days–they are way more comfortable for pounding the pavement than other shoes. If I’m headed to a beach or island, I’ll pack my water shoes, and a pair of sandals, in addition to the travel day sneakers. You really don’t need more than that on your average trip!

Read next: The Ultimate Guide to Your Feet and Your Travels

Consider Your Airplane Outfit

This incredibly overlooked strategy is about to change your packing list: Consider what you’re wearing on the plane to your destination. You can re-wear each piece throughout your trip, which multiplies your outfit options. If you’re really committed to packing light, you can actually pack one less outfit as well!

More here: The Best Outfits to Wear on the Plane

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