The hottest months of the year are here and that means it’s time for the Lebanese to pack their bags and head to the trendiest and most beautiful locations around the globe. Whether you’re heading to Mykonos or Bali, it’s important to pack smart so you don’t end up having to buy anything last minute and can focus on having fun. Here are our 4 useful tips to enjoying your vacation this summer!

1. Don’t overpack!

We know, everyone say this. Don’t overpack. But it’s true. Between lugging your suitcase through airports and through the streets of a foreign country, less is more when it comes to packing. Now, we are Lebanese so this might not come naturally to us. I have a friend who actually brought five floor-length gowns for a weekend in Cyprus. Just remember, packing light doesn’t have to mean repeating outfits. The key is to think ahead to what activities you have lined up, and bringing the right clothing. So if you’re planning a week of sightseeing, bring comfortable shoes and leave the stilettos at home.

2. Always wear sunscreen!

Tanning might as well be a national pastime in Lebanon. Head to any beach resort and you are bound to come upon masses of bikini-clad Lebanese glistening with tanning oil. But our penchant for tanning is one we might want to rethink. Sun exposure not only leads to more wrinkles, but is also bad for your health. So lather on that SPF 30 when you’re traveling and make sure to keep your face out of the sun with a nice hat. You’ll be glad you did later.

3. Print out your documents!

I love Beirut Airport as much as the next person, but it isn’t exactly top of the line when it comes to technology. Don’t rely on your smartphone when it comes to important travel documents. Print everything you need beforehand, including tickets, travel insurance and hotel reservation information. It may sound old-fashioned but when your smartphone battery dies on you, you’ll be happy to have a few hard copies of everything you need!

4. Take pictures—but don’t live for the Insta!

We’re all guilty of this. Getting to a new place and immediately scanning for the perfect location for our Instagram photo-shoots. While it may be tempting to post pictures of your vacation as soon as you arrive, try to enjoy your trip for yourself. Of course, this is easier said than done. But if you focus on your own happiness and enjoyment, you’ll have a better time than if you spent your trip snapping pictures every few minutes.