From vacations, All-Star Cheerleading, and college tours, I have had my fair share of traveling. This summer I am going away for a month to Europe, which definitely requires a bunch of planning. In order to make your trip the least stressful as possible, check out these tips:

1. Put clothes in ziplock bags and squeeze out all the air. This not only keeps your suitcase organized, but allows for more space.

2. Put a smaller bag of essentials in your carry-on bag. This way if the plane is full and they make you gate-check it, you will still have your important items.

3. Check the flight map before you leave; you may be able to ask an attendant to switch next to a friend or upgrade when seats are empty.

4. Add a luggage tag or a ribbon around to suitcases in order to claim them easier at baggage claim.

5. If your luggage is lost, ask for a number to call if you need to buy something while they get your luggage to you. Most times you can get reimbursed.

6. Put all liquids in a ziplock bag and make sure it snaps shut. You do not want your conditioner exploding everywhere.

7. Avoid getting sick from planes by using a wet-wipe to clean your seat and tray down from the person before you.

8. Bring hand lotion and chapstick on the plane to keep your skin moisturized in the dry air.

9. For overnight flights, noise-canceling headphones and an eye-mask should do the trick to help you fall asleep.

10. Pre-load all music, TV shows, podcasts, and movies before getting on the plane, in case there is no wifi.

11. Do not keep all of your money in the same place, in case something gets lost or stolen during your travels.

12. Chew gum during takeoff and landing to keep your ears from popping.

13. For long flights, walk up and down the aisles every few hours to avoid any cramping or health issues.

14. Wear shoes with socks to the airport. You do not want to have to walk around barefoot in security.

15. Know when boarding starts so you can assure a close overhead bin for your carry-on luggage.

Safe travels everyone!