Step away from the shoes: Tips for packing light

NEW YORK — What's worse than lugging a heavy bag to your summer vacation spot, only to pop it open and find it filled with too many of all the wrong things?

If you pack lightweight, versatile clothing instead, you can save money on luggage fees at the airport and even hoist your own bag into the overhead compartment. If you're driving, you'll find yourself with room in the trunk for souvenirs.

And, most importantly, the fewer wardrobe choices you have, the quicker you'll be wading into the surf or taking in the sights.

"The lighter you travel, the easier it is the whole way through," says style expert Mary Alice Stephenson.

Here are tips from the experts for packing light:

LIGHT LAYERS

Stephenson suggests taking several lightweight items that can be mixed and matched.

A light summer dress — in a colorful print, vibrant color or with beading or sequins in cotton or a silk blend — is her top pick. A short tunic, long maxi or something in between can be worn over a bathing suit with flip flops, or with embellished sandals at night.

"You need a summer dress that is beach-friendly but glamorous for going out at night," said Stephenson, whose clients include models Molly Sims and Hilary Rhoda and actress Michelle Monaghan.

Then add a pair of khaki pants or capris. "It's kind of like summer's jeans," says Stephenson. "It's really light and airy."

If pants aren't your thing, grab a pull-on skirt in breezy cotton or gauze.

With a neutral on the bottom, add something special on top, like a floaty blouse with embellishments, puff sleeves, or a feminine, floral print, Stephenson said.

VERSATILITY

Next is a T-shirt or tank top, basics that come in all colors and prices and can be worn with everything — including those khakis already in the bag.

Pick the best bathing suit for your body, and use it as another item in your interchangeable vacation wardrobe.

Another option is a wrap dress, like the signature style in jersey from Diane von Furstenberg. It doesn't wrinkle, and feels light and soft, the designer says.

"If you could only have one thing, you could take the wrap dress," she says. "It will take you to the beach, to visit churches and to dinner."