Bring your camera.

It doesn't have to be an expensive camera with all the bells and whistles. You can even get great shots with a disposable camera.

You never know when you'll see a hilarious sign, odd landmark or spectacular sunset, so have your camera at the ready.

Packing for a short (i.e., a week or less) spontaneous trip? Here are a few tips to help you out:

• Pack a train case with your cosmetic, hygienic and medical necessities. The train case is the first thing you should pack. You do not want to forget any medication or toiletries.
• Pack a small suitcase or duffel bag with a couple key items of clothing such as jeans or leggings that can be interchanged with multiple shirts.
• Stuff a tote bag with books or magazines, a bottle of water and snacks so you won't suffer from boredom.

Putting your items in separate bags allows you to grab what you need when you need it, and it makes packing the car (or living out of a small room) much simpler.

To save money while staying in a hotel, forget about the vending machines and room service. Instead: pack snacks.

Before booking a room, check to see if the room is equipped with a mini-refrigerator. If it isn't, bring a cooler packed with ice. Put things inside it like cans of soda and bottles of water, fruit, cheese and sandwiches. You can refill the cooler with ice from the ice machine in the hotel. After all, there's usually an ice machine on each floor directly across from the vending machines.

The money you save on snacks can be spent at restaurants and area attractions!