Packing for vacation can be intimidating whether you're going away for the weekend or on an extended trip. You may find yourself checking and double checking to make sure you have everything, squeezing in that last pair of shoes – only to find out your bag is over the airline weight limit. Here are some tips to help ease the packing process:

Use a checklist.

Ever get done packing and have that nagging feeling that you've forgotten something? You arrive at your destination and realize you've forgotten to pack socks. Reduce the risk of leaving something behind by having a list. Keep in mind Israel’s climate and what kind of activities you will be doing. With a list you won't end up forgetting the necessities in the chaos of packing.

Roll, don't fold.

Tightly roll your clothes when you're packing instead of folding them. They'll take up less space and be less prone to wrinkling.

Stick to neutrals.

Resist the impulse to pack an entirely different outfit for each day. Pack pieces you can mix and match throughout your trip - it helps to stick to neutral colors that can be paired with almost anything. Do this, and you will save a ton of space. You will also avoid bringing along a ton of stuff that you probably won’t wear anyway.

Buddy packing.

If you're traveling with a companion, pack half of each of your belongings in each bag. That way, if one of the bags were to end up lost you each still have half of your belongings.

Try packing aids.

Packing aids like compression bags can allow you to vacuum pack your clothes into tiny, tight bundles. If you're headed for a long trip or concerned about space this is one way to help. Other packing aids include packing envelopes and packing cubes.

Know the rules.

Knowing the luggage size and weight requirements for your particular airline as well as the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) rules before traveling will make your experience at the airport that much easier. You won't be left dispersing items from one suitcase to another in the middle of the airport to squeak in under the weight limit.

Some things you didn't think of:

You might want to pack some bubble-wrap if you plan on carrying breakables (or wine) back with you. Throw some large zip-lock bags into your luggage. These are great for carrying bottled items that might leak or food-stuffs in between cities. The two-gallon jumbo size is handy for packing wet or dirty clothing while on your trip.

Use unique tags.

Use unique luggage or luggage tags so you can easily see your bag coming through the baggage carousel rather than having to check every non-descript black bag that goes by. You can also tie a colorful bandana or piece of fabric to the handle. Another way to “mark” your bag is to write your last name on the handle of your luggage with a liquid ‘white-out’ pen.

Resist packing full-size products.

Resist packing items such as full-size personal hygiene products or a flashlight. These items are usually available in travel-size and you will save space. You may also want to check the amenities provided by your hotel as most provide personal hygiene products.

Hopefully you will get to your destination on time and your luggage will be waiting for you. But luggage does get lost, so be prepared.

Here are some tips for packing for the actual flight:

• Choose what you’ll wear on the plane carefully – If your luggage gets lost, you may be in these clothes for some time!
• Always carry a change of clothes – and undergarments in your carry-on.
• Carry your medicines - or anything else you need to have for you health.
• Have pictures of each piece of luggage you’re going to check. 
• Don’t lose your baggage receipts –they ARE your luggage!
• Always have a pen in your carry-on bag as you are often required to fill out various forms - including lost luggage forms, if necessary - before entering a different country.
• Resist the urge to bring expensive jewelry or anything else that is valuable on your trip. If you are bringing a valuable that you absolutely must have with you, keep it on you instead of putting it in luggage that may potentially get lost.
• Many airlines no longer allow liquids on planes. Check with the airline for the restrictions regarding lotions and creams. You don't want to have to throw something out when you get to security.

Packing can definitely be stressful, but done right, it will make your trip a lot more enjoyable.