What should I pack for a week trip?

What should I pack for a two week trip to Arizona?

• I am visiting my aunt in Arizona, and I am staying for two weeks. What should I pack? I can do laundry.

• Answer:

  Use the professional traveler's rule of thumb when choosing luggage: A 24-inch bag for three to seven days; a 26- or 27-inch bag for seven to 14 days; and a 29- or 30-inch case for longer than two weeks. Step2 Devise a color-coordinated wardrobe with pieces that mix and match. Choose two or three color schemes to allow each item in your suitcase to do double duty. Dress in layers so you can adapt to changing temperature. Bring enough underwear for each day of your trip unless you'll be doing laundry. Step3 Zip zippers and button buttons. Cushion garments inside and out with plastic coverings from the dry-cleaners or fold them in tissue paper as the retail stores do to minimize wrinkling. Step4 Roll or fold clothes to fit the suitcase. Start by folding the garment into a large rectangle, and then tightly roll from the bottom up. Fold less wrinkle-prone clothes (pajamas, jeans) and place on the bottom. Step5 Create two sections for garments in the order in which you plan to wear the items. Fill corners and edges with shoes (bagged and stuffed with underwear and socks). Top off with delicate items. Step6 Pack travel-size toiletries and first aid supplies, including sunscreen, pain relievers and bandages, in zipper-lock plastic bags for easy identification. Place these in zippered or netted areas inside the luggage top or in an outside compartment or pocket. Step7 Stash important papers and documents, including passports, tickets and credit cards, in a single closable file or envelope. Bring a money belt to keep your cash and travelers' checks safe while you and your hands are occupied. Photocopy passports (black-and-white copies only--color copies are illegal) and other ID and write down emergency numbers in case of loss or theft, and carry separately from real ones.