How to pack efficiently?

How can I pack efficiently for my trip?

• Ok, this summer I am heading for Paris, London, Russia, and my mother told me some city I forgot the name but she told me it is extremely hot there. I will be taking a month long trip, staying in hotels in London and Paris (4 days London, 3 days Paris), and with family the rest of the time. I want to pack everything I nee din one carry on suitcase, because I want to travel light. Does anyone have any tips for packing light? Could anyone make me a checklist of lcothes and other stuff I'll be needing? And ways to fold/roll up clothes for maximum efficienct? I'm going to need to pack several pairs of shoes-sneakers, flip flops, and dress shoes, is there a way to make them take up less space? I asked my mom to get me space bags, but she won't, so that's out. And if anyone knows what clothes will be stylish in London and Paris, please tell me so I won't look like a tourist! Thanks!

• Answer:

  Bring an assortment of clothes that all match each other, so you can have a variety of combinations. Also bring accessories, like belt, scarf, etc. to change them up. Just accept the fact that you're going to be wearing the same outfits over and over again. Also trying not to look like a tourist is a lost cause; just go with it. The best advice I got re how much to bring: Put all the clothes you plan to bring in a pile on your bed. Divide that pile in half. Then divide it in half again. Space bags are not expensive; you can pick them up at a drugstore or Bed Bath-type store. I always use them, as space savers and also to keep my clothes organized. If that's still not an option, get the biggest zip-lock bags you can find, and after putting the clothes in, squeeze out as much air as as possible before sealing. And if you're still not going to go the bag route, rolling clothes makes it easier to pack; it just wrinkles them more. You could pack a lightweight steamer, or hang them in a steamy shower when you unpack. For shoes, pack them along the edges of the suitcase. Plus, use them to store other things--socks, underwear, fragile items, etc.