If you're planning a vacation this summer, we've assembled some tips to help you simplify the packing process.

*Start by making a checklist of all things you need for the trip. This will help you stay focused when packing and will ensure that you don't leave any critical items behind.

*Use zipper-style plastic bags to separately pack shirts, toiletries, accessories, etc. Since you will likely be packing liquids, this will provide extra insurance against spills and leaks. You can also use the bags on the return trip for dirty laundry.

*Pack clothing and shoes around a common color scheme so you can mix and match-beige and black are great foundation colors for a simple travel wardrobe.

*Pack a collapsible bag for things that you purchase on your trip like souvenirs.

*If you're heading to a seaside destination, pack a beach tote with sunscreen, sun glasses, etc.  

*Buy travel sizes of perfumes and toiletries or better yet, purchase them when you arrive.

*Pack a nightlight or two to use in your hotel room. This can save stubbed toes in the middle of the night and add an extra level of comfort for nervous kids (or nervous adults!).

*A first aid kit is always an essential. Fill yours with insect repellant, adhesive bandages, pain and nausea medication, allergy medication and safety pins. 

*Plan to carry prescription medications on board with you. Airlines lose luggage at alarming rates and if yours doesn't arrive for a few days, you could find yourself scrambling to fill emergency prescriptions.

Happy traveling!

Getting through an airport can be stressful, but you can minimize much of the stress by being prepared. Here are some tips to get you through quickly.  

1. Check the average wait time at the airport you're passing through on the TSA website: www.tsa.gov.  You'll have a better idea of how to time your arrival at the airport.

2. Keep your boarding pass and ID available for quick access. You will have to show both at several points throughout the airport.

3. Wear shoes that are easy to remove since airport security now requires all passengers to remove their shoes during the security screening process.

4. Remove your coat before passing through security.

5. Place jewelry and items from your pockets into your carry-on bag to reduce confusion and move through the process quickly.

6. Avoid wearing metal jewelry like hair clips or pins, belt buckles, clothes with metal buttons and under wire bras. The metal detectors look for an accumulation of metal so the less you're wearing, the better the chances of passing through without incident.

7. Do not bring prohibited items to the airport. Anything that resembles a weapon is considered prohibited material. Sharp objects including small grooming scissors, pocket knives and even combs with sharp points will be confiscated by security.

8. Liquids and gels must be a maximum of 3 ounces and packed into a single quart-sized zip-top plastic bag. Even if you have less than 3 ounces in your toothpaste tube, if the tube was originally a larger size (such as 8 ounces), it's not allowed. Larger quantities of liquids will have to be checked in or discarded at security.

Finally, remember the security personnel are just doing their jobs and helping to protect all of us. Be courteous, cooperative and polite - it will help speed up the check-in process and help you get your vacation off to the right start!