I have a confession...I'm a serial over packer. Like I have a serious problem. I don't really mind packing (minus the fact that I ALWAYS feel like I'm forgetting something!) But my strategy for most trips is to just grab whatever looks cute out of my drawers and closet and throw it in a big pile on the bed. But this time around, since I was showcasing my suitcase to the world, I tried to be a bit more strategic about what I was bringing and plan specific outfits for each day based on our itinerary.

Since it is our second time to the islands I had a much better idea of what I would need this time around. As I've mentioned before we are super active on our trips (hiking, biking, snorkeling, etc.) and on our last trip I quickly ran out of active wear. Another lesson learned was how laid back the island life really is. We did go to a few nice dinners and nighttime activites but even at the nicer restaurants you'll blend right in with a sundress and sandals.

Some of our planned activities include:

• Hiking
• Snorkeling
• Golfing
• Sunset boat cruise
• Whale watching boat cruise
• Mountain tubing
• Sightseeing, shopping, dinners, etc.

Another thing to keep in mind is what to actually pack your stuff in. Sadly Southwest (and their two free checked bags) don't fly everywhere we want to go. But my husband and I always try to still save a few bucks when traveling together. On this trip we plan to fit everything into only one checked bag, two carryons and our personal bags which saves a couple hundred dollars in baggage fees. Well, let's get packing!

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I've lived in Michigan all my life and I still think "up north" is one of the most magical places on earth. It's seriously like a whole other world just a few hours drive from where we live. If you haven't had the chance to experience it yet I highly recommend adding it to your travel bucket list. Of all the times I've traveled north, it always seems to be during the summer and fall months. Check out my Traverse City guide from our anniversary trip last summer. And while both of these seasons are gorgeous in their own special ways, I was excited to be able to head north during the winter. My college friends and I decided to plan a ski trip to ring in the New Year. There are SO many great ski resorts to choose from but after doing some research, and taking lodging into consideration to fit all 10 of us, we decided on Trout Creek and Nubs Nob!