1. Think about the trip you are going to be having and pack accordingly. I learned that back packing in South Africa with one backpack (like the ones for School) could be done. What I learned was the importance of packing LOTS of underwear, some socks, and atleast one change of clothes. For a 3 week trip, managed to take 2 pairs of jeans, 1 pair of cloth pants, 3 shirts, 10 pairs of underwear, 4 socks. What I liked, how light and quick I could pack up and get going. Oh and the decision in the morning was super easy, Wear what I wore yesterday or not. =)