My brother and his prep-school band, The Varsity Band, wrote and recorded a song their senior year entitled "Travel Light". It was very catchy and the kind of song that over 20 years later, I can still hum and have it get stuck in my head. It was the perfect anthem for high school seniors with the world at their feet. "Travel light, you never know when it's right to take flight, travel light."

Have you ever seen the girl at the baggage claim with two extra large suitcases with the bright orange "CAUTION: HEAVY" tags on them? The one struggling to pull them off the conveyor belt, knocking fellow passengers to the floor like dominos with each hurl? The one who is always the object of some snide comment or stink eye reading "high maintenance"? Well, ladies and gentlemen, that girl is me. Somehow I didn't get the literal theme to "Travel Light".

When you travel you always want to have the comforts of home: your pillow, appropriate shoes for every occasion, accessories to complete every ensemble, layers for every climate, and an abundance of toiletries. What? You don't travel with your pillow?

I have been traveling more in 2014 than at home and think that I have finally learned some lessons when it comes to what to pack or lack. If you have the kitchen sink in your carry on, listen up and don't be afraid to throw caution to the wind and leave your pillow behind.

Shoes are one of the most important pieces in your wardrobe when traveling. Unless you are a TSA frequent flyer, you will need to remove your shoes to go through security. Nobody wants to be behind the girl wearing tall, stylish boots she has to wrangle before she collects her crap and moves on. I recommend wearing your gym shoes to travel as they are usually the most comfortable and often get forgotten because of the room they use. I have gotten down to traveling with three pairs of shoes, from seven, and have impressed myself with how I can make outfits work with so few choices, not get blisters and still have treadmill time.

Accessories are the easiest part of traveling light. Three different accessories make numerous options with one outfit and significantly increase available space in your suitcase. Scarves and statement necklaces go a long way with versatility.

Layers work for every curveball Ma Nature will throw at you. Pack smart. Clearly if you are going to a wet climate invest in a lightweight rain coat. If you are going somewhere cold, think cashmere over your favorite chunky Irish sweater. I can't recommend getting those pants that go from long, to capri to short all with handy zippers because, well, it would be against my fashion religion, but they are a good example of how to make the most of one item. Think lightweight fabric, neutrals that go with everything and that every item needs to work in at least three different ways if it is going to make the cut.

Toiletries and personal care products can sometimes take up the most room in your bag. Travel sizes, who would have thought that they could be so important? I know they are expensive, but just do it, you won't run out and I guarantee if you do you can almost always find toothpaste or hairspray wherever you go.

Always buy lightweight, sturdy luggage, pack your carryon carefully, don't forget the camera and make sure to do at least one thing to absorb the culture at your destination.

Bon Voyage!!

Travel light, you never know when it's right to take flight, travel light