Many of us have to travel on the job and while the lure of new destinations can seem exhilarating, the realities of airport schlepping can become tiresome if you are not a savvy traveler. George Clooney had traveling light down perfectly in the movie Up in the Air but it’s inevitable that women just have more stuff to deal with.

When traveling for work the best strategy is to be prepared so you can be ready quickly and effortlessly. Here are some tips from Donna Smith, editor for Style Stories, for packing with ease plus some contingencies so you are always prepared.

• Have your travel wardrobe ready to go at home so you can pack this at a moment’s notice. Don’t consider this part of your regular work wardrobe if you are a frequent traveler so you can keep these outfits cleaned and ready for packing at any time.
• Neutral colored pieces are always the best and can be accessorized with easy to pack scarves for additional color and texture. Wool blend crepe fabrics breathe well and resist wrinkles and will work through most seasons. Depending on the length of your stay and the culture of your business, add a second pair of pants or a coordinating skirt that you can wear with a suit jacket or blazer.
• A white blouse or shell plus a colored version will allow you to wear your outfit twice with a different look. A patterned scarf will change the look even more and take up virtually no suitcase room.
• Travel (by plane, train, or car) in a comfortable pair of dark trouser jeans that you can wear for a casual night out or with your suit jacket for a dressier look.
• Have a pair of stylish and comfortable flats for days when you have a lot of walking or suitcase schlepping and another pair of reasonable heels to make for a more dressed up look. While stilettos are stylish, they are not practical for walking, or packing, so leave the mega heels at home when on a business trip.
• Keep a travel make up and toiletry bag ready to go at home. This is separate from what you use every day and has airport approved 2 oz. sized containers. Be sure to ask for sample size freebies when you stock up on your make up purchases. These are great to use when traveling and most cosmetic counters will gladly give you samples if you ask.
• If you wear contact lenses or glasses, be sure to travel with your lens prescriptions just in case you need an emergency back-up.
• If you fold your garments into your suitcase with the dry cleaning plastic covering on this will cut down on wrinkling.
• No one should leave home without Shout wipes since these little gems are the best for on- the-spot stain removal in a pinch.
• Invest in a rolling suitcase that is lightweight and has airport approved dimensions if you plan to carry-on your luggage.