Once in a while it is good to go with the flow and be a little more spontaneous, rather than just stick to your normal routine. Maybe your new year's resolution for 2018 will involve making some long-awaited trips? If so, making sure that you plan and prepare for those trips is vital in order to ensure that they go off smoothly - and one of the most crucial parts of preparation is the process of packing for your trip.

I used to really overlook the importance of packing correctly - "as long as it all fits in the bag somewhere, I guess it's okay!" I used to think. It took me a while to realise the value of putting some thought into the way in which I packed my backpack. Over time, I've picked up advice on how to achieve this from some of my friends, and I've also discovered a few tricks of my own, which I'm happy to share with others.

Go Light

Sure, it's ideal to make sure that you have everything you need, but when you're sitting and thinking about it, you can tend to get a bit overzealous in your estimation of what really counts as a vital item to take along on your hike. Think about it this way: did you find a use for this on your last hike, or the one before that? If not, then chances you probably aren't going to need it this time either. This doesn't count for emergency supplies of course, which you should always take with you.

How to implement light packing is a crucial question. There's an age-old debate about whether it's better to roll your clothes or fold them while packing. The important thing to remember, however, is to pack in such a way that all of the clothing and accessories that you stuff into your bag are a good fit for the baggage size. Separating toiletries from other stuff can keep you well organised on longer trips.

Pack limited clothes that can contribute in making your travel less of a lugging task. Smart travelers know that a few pairs of clothes can do the trick for them. This tip is especially relatable to those who go for hikes and treks often. Nobody is there to judge you on the basis of your clothes.

Play it safe with your Documents

Ensuring the safety of your documents should be your top priority. Keep your passport, travel insurance and other essential documents with you at all times. Taking pictures of these on your phone is also a good idea, as it can help you if they do get lost somehow. Printing off some spare copies and keeping them separately can also be a good move.

Carry your Essentials

When going for a trip, just spread all your stuff in one place, and take your time to scrutinise what items you can afford to carry and what you cannot. Pack your stuff, keeping in mind the best-case scenario and not the worst case. Think in terms of what you can do without and not what might be handy. If in doubt, leave it out. However, make sure you carry a few basic necessities.

Carrying a water bottle of your own is a great way of being eco-friendly. Important first-aid items too can be added to the list of must-haves. Similarly, items like a small torch can make your expedition a lot easier. These on-the-go items not only prepare you for worse, but can play an important role otherwise.

Moisture Wicking Clothes for Unpredictable Climate

Being prepared for any weather is another "fun" part about travelling. You never know what is in store for you in that far-flung land. Having the mindset of a backpacker is what you need. Carrying rain jackets and pants is more important than stuffing your bag with spare clothing. Also, an intelligent thing to do is to look for synthetic pants and shirts that are easy to dry and which absorb all moisture and are light to carry and easy to wash.

Follow Baggage Rules if Flying

How would you feel if you got your baggage with broken locks? Shocked and disheartened, right? All those who share the same feeling should be wise and opt for airline compliant locks for your luggage. Inside your bag, you should also be weary as rules about lithium-ion batteries and smart devices are still developing, and may well have changed since the last time you flew - it's always worth checking. Trekking poles with a pointed tip can also make for a little trouble - make sure you cover the tips so they don't wreck the rest of your stuff in transit!

The Power of Renting Items

If you're on a short but gear-heavy trip, it might actually be easier to just hire some equipment when you arrive rather than carrying the whole lot with you. You might prefer to use your own tried and trusted tools, but it's a decision you'll have to make: is it worth the trouble, and the expense, of transporting all of that kit with you?

Packing gets easy and fun when you have things sorted in your mind. You will never regret your decision of having packed light, but you might encounter other tourists who wish they had! Go casual, simple, and light; after all you travel to stay happy and explore the unknown and not to be a porter for your own luggage.