The point of vacation is to unwind and evade the everyday stresses of the work world. However, preparing and packing for your hiatus can be stressful. Have you ever gone on a trip and realized at your destination that you forgot to pack a few key things? Hunting for these necessities adds to the stress of travel. Here are a few tips to help you have fun in the sun without coming undone.

Make a List: Frequent travelers make a list and keep it, (taped to the inside of the medicine chest or closet door) refining it after every trip. The real “pros” often keep a bag of duplicate essential items packed and ready to go at a moment's notice.

Get Organized: Keep all of your travel information in one place, including: airline tickets, passport and ID, rental agreements and hotel reservations.

Lighten Your Load: Don’t over-pack. Build your travel wardrobe around a few key colors. Bring more dark colored clothes than light, as they don’t get dirty looking as quickly. Be sure these are versatile garments that can be mixed and matched for a fresh look, no matter where you’re headed.

Accessorize: Accessories (ties, vests, scarves, jewelry) can change the look of something dramatically. Plus, they're usually small and easy to pack!

Mind the material: Try to pack as many wrinkle-resistant items as possible. Fabrics that include a small percentage of rayon, polyester or nylon, as well as jersey knits, travel better than cotton and linen.

Technique Is Vital: Wrinkles occur whenever a fabric is creased into a hard edge, so fold your clothes as softly as possible, or better yet, roll clothes whenever possible. Lay your clothes in the suitcase, placing those that will wrinkle the most on the bottom. Arrange each layer of clothes perpendicular to the layer below it, with all the clothes just draped within the suitcase.

Avoid Spills: Forego unnecessary items like shampoo, hair dryers, irons and other standard items that hotels supply. If you're traveling to more remote areas, bring travel-sized toiletries instead of full-sized containers. Be sure to place items that could leak (such as shampoo) inside zip-top bags to ensure that your clothes arrive stain-free.

Just in Case: Be sure to bring any medication you might need, as well as any first aid products that could come in handy. Don’t forget things like extra batteries, sun block, towels and anything else that might be needed. If you’re brining the kids along, it might be wise to toss in a few small toys to keep them occupied on road trips, flights or delays.

You are limited to two carry-on items: a bag and a purse or laptop bag/briefcase.

Wear slip-on shoes (you may be required to remove them for frequent security checks).

Be ready to turn on all electronic devices if asked.

Expect delays and build time into your itinerary to accommodate them. They won't hold planes or rush you aboard if you are late. You'll be put on the next available flight.

Check your airline's website for further security tips, including restricted items and what you can – and can’t – bring with you from one country into another.