There’s nothing better than setting your out-of-office reply and heading off on a relaxing vacation.

But before you unplug and unwind, it’s important to plan ahead and do a little prep work to make sure your trip goes as smoothly as possible.

Here are five tips to help you get ready for vacation.

1. Think of Your Destination

When it comes to getting ready for vacation, it’s essential to keep in mind where you’re going. Research what the weather will be like during your stay, and remember to take note of any potential days that might involve rain.

If you’re headed someone sunny and sandy, then colorful and stylish beach dresses are a must.

For one, they’re easy to throw on over your swimsuit before you head down to the beach. You can also use them if you’re headed to a restaurant or beach bar in the middle of your relaxing time on the sand.

They’re also generally lightweight and easy to pack. Plus, they dry easily, making them the perfect wardrobe option for summer vacation.

But if your trip involves snow instead of sun, you’ll have to think differently when doing vacation prep.

Layers are a great way to stay warm, so remember to include items that can easily be paired with each other. A warm coat and gloves are other vacation essentials when you’re headed somewhere with cooler climes.

And no matter where you’re going, don’t forget about footwear. Sandals and flip-flops are perfect for the beach, since they’re easy to take off and on. But if you’re planning an outdoor adventure, then you might need to pack hiking boots or sturdier sneakers.

Just remember to keep comfort in mind, especially if you’ll be walking long distances. You don’t want to risk blisters or sore feet.

2. Want to Be Ready for Vacation? Pack Options

When you’re deciding what to wear on vacation, it’s a good idea to pack different options and different types of clothes. While your itinerary may be at least partially set in advance, you want to be prepared for any situation, including rain.

But you don’t want to overpack. Try planning out your outfits in advance and choosing clothes that can be mixed and matched. This is especially helpful if you’re going on a longer trip because you can create multiple outfits from the same items.

3. Find the Ultimate Luggage

Whether you’re headed for a weekend getaway or a week-long stay, it’s important to find the perfect piece of luggage to pack your things in. All duffels and suitcases aren’t created equal, so remember to keep a few things in mind.

Storage pockets can help you maximize space and fit everything you need, from essentials to extras. Some even have built-in compression systems to make the packing process less painful.

You can also use packing cubes to stay organized and help you fit more in your bag. These cubes can also make it easier to find things when you’re on the go. But it’s not just what’s inside your luggage that counts. The exterior matters, too.

A lightweight suitcase with 360-degree wheels makes navigating the airport and the trip to your hotel much easier. Similarly, a durable material and hard shell helps ensure nothing will be damaged.

There are also plenty of other suitcase features that can help your trip run smoothly. Look for an option that has a built-in charger, which can give you an easy way to keep your phone and other gadgets juiced if there’s no outlet in sight.

If you’re traveling for work, then a laptop sleeve can be a great asset. And don’t forget to find a bag or carry-on with a TSA-approved lock to keep your belongings safe and sound.

4. Bring Your Favorite Beauty Products

When you’re getting ready for vacation, it’s a good idea to buy travel-sized versions of your favorite beauty products. Smaller containers make it easier to pack.

Not sure what you’ll need? If you’re hoping to avoid hotel-provided products, then don’t forget hair products like shampoo and conditioner.

Your destination is important here, too. If you’re going to the beach, then remember to bring sunscreen to prevent sunburns. For somewhere cold, moisturizer and lip balm are a must to prevent dry skin and chapped lips.

You can even do a little beauty prep ahead of time. Scheduling a pedicure or manicure before you leave on your trip can help you feel your best while you’re on vacation. It also means you skip packing nail polish for your travels.

If you’re planning to take a carry-on, just remember to check TSA guidelines regarding liquids, aerosols, gels, and creams. That way you won’t run into any surprises or be delayed while going through security.

5. Expect the Unexpected

No matter how well you plan your vacation, surprises are inevitable. Research as much as possible before you leave for your destination, and try to do a few things to prepare.

That could mean getting travel insurance, or downloading a translation app if you’re going somewhere where you don’t speak the language. And while relying on your phone for directions is easy, it can’t hurt to have a guidebook or printed maps.

It’s also a good idea to back a small health kit that contains any sort of medicine you might need, from pain relievers to cold medicine to Band-aids. This can be useful in the case of any minor accident.

And don’t forget to give yourself some downtime in between activities. Sometimes you just need a nap or a little bit of time to unwind.

Get Ready for Your Dream Vacation

Whether it’s planning out your outfits or finding the perfect suitcase, there are plenty of things you can do to make sure you’re ready for vacation.

And while you can’t guarantee things will go exactly to plan, by following these tips and tricks, you can help ensure your trip is as relaxing as possible. For more travel tips and vacation ideas, be sure to explore the rest of our site.