Q&A for How to Pack an Overnight Bag

Check the weather at your destination and pack accordingly. If it's hot, you'll want lightweight and light-colored clothing to keep you cool, like a tank top, shorts, or a loose sundress. You may also want sunglasses, a hat, or sunscreen. If the weather looks chilly, or if it often cools down at night, bring a jacket, light sweater or cardigan to pull on. If you'll be swimming, of course be sure to bring your swimsuit, sunscreen, a hat, and a pullover to wear over your suit. Ask if there will be towels at your destination, and if not, grab one before you go.

If you'll be driving for more than an hour and a half and don't plan on stopping for meals, it's a good idea to bring along some travel-friendly snacks, like trail mix, pretzels, or fruit. If you or a passenger will be sleeping on the drive, throw in a pillow and blanket if you have room--you can always leave it in the car once you get to your destination. If you don't have space, use a sweatshirt as a pillow and a jacket as a blanket.

Some essentials include pajamas, toilet and entertainment like board games, crafts, etc. If you are staying for longer, you can also bring a change of clothes for the next day. If there are other circumstances, like if you are going to sleep in a sleeping bag, on a mattress, etc., you could also consider bringing a pillow and blanket. Be sure to ask for information ahead of time, so you have specific information.

Try to shuffle items around. Is your toiletry bag taking up too much space? Downsize to a plastic bag. If you're bringing two bags--for example, a small duffle and a purse--try to fit a few of the smaller items, like socks or charging cords, into your second, smaller bag. You can also purchase plastic packing bags that allow you to vacuum seal your clothes after you fold them to save more space.

Your school should give you a list of what you need to bring. Whether or not you need to bring a sleeping bag and pillow will depend on your trip's itinerary, and where you will be sleeping.

It depends on your hair! If you'll be washing your hair at your destination, be sure to bring what you usually use to untangle wet hair. If you usually brush your hair in the morning, bring a brush as well. Travel-size brushes and combs are widely available if you need to save space.

A hairbrush would help keep your hair more maintained, so take a hairbrush.

Yes, it can be very helpful if you make a packing list so you can ensure that you packed everything you need.

Make sure all caps are tightened. If something has a loose top, try taping it on. Then, place it in a Ziploc bag, and put that in another Ziploc. Store this in a place where it won't get squished.

Definitely bring a sleeping bag - unless they provide bedding. The same with a pillow, clothes for the next day, pajamas, toiletries and other necessities.

The climate in Virginia is humid subtropical. That means cold winters and warm summers. For a four-night trip, a simple carry-on bag should suffice. Pack underwear for each day, plus one extra. Bring pants with long legs, and comfortable but classy sneakers. Bring one or two shirts, two T-shirts and two sweaters. And wear a coat.

Try packing some peppermint or ginger candies or gums. Both are known to help calm upset stomachs.

Wear a t-shirt and shorts if it's summer, or long pants (and a jacket) if it's going to be chilly. If it's going to be sunny, wear a hat and/or apply sunscreen. Wear comfortable shoes, like sneakers.

Don't leave it till the last minute. Start packing the week before so you have heaps of time to work out what to take and what to leave behind.

Downsize a little bit here and a little bit there. You can also buy a crate with attached storage space to store its stuff. This will help on long road trips. Also, if you still can't fit it, get a pet sitter.

Bring overnight items, like a toothbrush and paste. Also, bring pajamas. If you are going to be also there for the day, be sure to check the forecast and bring weather-appropriate clothes, like a hat or raincoat.

You'll want to put some extra panties (2-4 pairs), as well as a good deal of pads/tampons, into your kit. Add however many you think you'll need. Remember that you'll need to change every two to three hours unless you're sleeping. These items can be put in a pouch that you can store into your overnight bag.