Let's set the scene:

You're going to Aruba! To the start the new year off the most paradisiacal way, your parents have surprised you with a six day, five night family vacation! The thought of the crystal waters in a tropical setting makes your heart melt.

Oh no, you leave tomorrow morning! You run like a maniac to grab the largest suitcase you own. Let the nightmare begin.

If you are a girl that is anything like me, you have dealt with the inevitable anguish that comes from over-packing. Okay, maybe this problem is avoidable, but I find it nearly impossible to overcome.

For me, a six day, five night vacation would mean an extremely excessive amount of clothing, shoes and anything else that I own. You truly never know what you will need when you go on vacation, so the only way to avoid this problem is to pack absolutely everything that you think you might need.

My indecisiveness has made it extremely difficult for me to pack accordingly without over-packing. Usually, I pack twice the amount of clothes needed for the days I will be on vacation. My favorite line to repeat in my head while packing a suitcase is, "Just in case!"

When packing a vacation suitcase, I try to think of the things I use the most at home and if I would need them while on vacation. On top of that, I think of things I don't usually use at home that I might need or want while away from the luxury of everything I have accumulated over the years.

If I know I will be dressing up for dinner one night, I bring a couple clothing options for that night with a couple shoe options to match. Is that over-packing? Maybe... But I like to call it being prepared. Along with my formal outfits, I pack double everything, including socks and underwear. From hats to jewelry, everything is there in surplus. Oh, and don't forget a rain jacket, just in case.

My over-packing skills allow me to be prepared for any occasion in any kind of weather. One day, I hope to master the art of appropriate packing, but for now, let the lavishness live on!

Fast forward to after your vacation...

Out of all the outfits that were packed, less than half were worn. Forgotten were your favorite comfy sandals, and now it is time to unpack.