A weekend getaway is the perfect opportunity to relax, explore new surroundings, and break free from the daily routine. However, packing for just a few days can sometimes feel trickier than packing for a longer vacation. The key is to find the balance between being prepared and packing light. This blog post will walk you through the essentials for a weekend trip, with tips on how to pack efficiently and avoid overpacking. Whether you’re heading to a beach, the countryside, or a city break, this guide will help you get everything organised without the stress.
Packing list – How to pack for weekend trips
How to pack for weekend trips can be tricky. We’ve created a comprehensive packing list designed for a Friday-to-Sunday weekend trip. The list includes all the essentials you’ll need, from travel day outfits to the must-have items for comfort and convenience.
- 1 pair of shoes and 1 pair of slippers/sandals
- 3 sets of underwear
- 3 pairs of socks
- 3 outfits: Tailor these to the type of trip you’re going on. For example, a city getaway might require stylish casual wear, while a beach trip calls for breezy, comfortable clothes. Be sure to check the weather forecast and pack accordingly.
- Accessories:
- Sunglasses
- Belt
- Jewellery
- Watch
- Hat
- Toiletry Bag:
- Toothbrush + toothpaste
- Deodorant and perfume
- Skincare products – You can also check out our skincare routine guide.
- Face and body sunscreen
- Hairbrush and hair products
- Razor/clippers
- Medicine, contact lenses, glasses, or other personal necessities
- Phone, charger, headphones, and power bank
- Wallet, passport, and keys: Even if you’re traveling domestically, it’s always smart to carry your ID, credit cards, and some cash. Make sure your passport is up-to-date if you’re traveling internationally!
How to Pack Efficiently
The key to packing efficiently is keeping things simple and planning ahead. Here’s how to avoid common packing mistakes and stay organised:
Choose Versatile Clothing
Opt for clothing that can serve multiple purposes. For instance, bring a dress that can be dressed up with accessories for a night out, or kept casual with sandals for a day of exploring. The same goes for shoes: one good pair of comfortable, stylish shoes can usually get you through the weekend.
Use a Travel-Size Toiletry Kit
To save space, pack travel-sized versions of your essential toiletries, or transfer them into reusable containers. This is especially handy if you’re flying and want to avoid checking in your luggage. Don’t forget to bring a zip-lock bag for any liquids.
Roll, Don’t Fold
When it comes to packing your clothes, rolling them up tightly rather than folding can save a ton of space in your suitcase. It also helps reduce wrinkles, so your clothes will look fresher when you arrive at your destination.
Plan Your Outfits
Lay out all your outfits before you start packing. This will prevent overpacking and ensure you have a clear idea of what you’ll be wearing each day. Packing a cohesive color palette makes it easier to mix and match pieces, further reducing how much you need to bring.
Minimise “Just in Case” Items
A weekend trip is short and sweet, meaning you won’t need to pack for every possible scenario. Instead, focus on the essentials and trust that you can pick up anything extra, like an umbrella or a specific toiletry, at your destination if necessary.
Keep Important Items Handy
Make sure things like your phone, charger, and travel documents are in an easy-to-reach spot in your bag. That way, you won’t be digging through your suitcase at the airport or when you first arrive at your hotel.
Packing Lifehacks for a Stress-Free Trip
Pack Last Minute (Yes, Really!)
Packing last minute might sound counterproductive, but when you’re only going away for the weekend, it can actually be a great strategy. By waiting until the night before, you’ll have an up-to-date weather forecast, and your weekend plans will be more concrete. This means you’ll pack only what you truly need for the weather and activities, avoiding unnecessary extras.
Utilise Packing Cubes
Packing cubes are a game-changer when it comes to organising your suitcase/weekendbag. They help compartmentalise your clothing, making it easy to separate outfits, undergarments, and toiletries. Plus, they can compress your clothing to free up extra space.
Wear Your Bulkiest Items
Save space in your bag by wearing your bulkiest outfit during travel. This might mean wearing your heaviest jacket or your largest pair of shoes on the plane or during the car ride. Once you arrive, you can swap into something more comfortable.
Bring a Reusable Tote or Backpack
A foldable tote bag or small backpack can be a lifesaver. You can use it for day trips, as an extra carry-on, or to hold any souvenirs or items you pick up during your trip. Best of all, it hardly takes up any space in your luggage.
The Best Weekend Bags
There are many different weekend bags available on the market, so how do you choose the right one? We’ve tested a wide variety and have gathered our top picks below. Whether you’re looking for a practical and spacious option or a bag that combines style with functionality, we’ve got you covered. We’ve included a selection for those who need a versatile bag, as well as options for those who refuse to compromise on design. Explore them all below.
Rains Hilo Weekend Bag
Lo & Sons Catalina Supreme
Patagonia Black Hole Duffel 40L
Nordform Weekender
Monos Metro Carry-All Duffel
Carl Friedrik Palissy Weekend
Dagne Dover Denver Convertible Duffel
The North Face Base Camp Duffel
Banana Republic Millers Nylon Tote Bag
Packing for a weekend trip doesn’t have to be stressful. With a little planning and smart packing strategies, you can avoid overpacking while still having everything you need. Stick to versatile clothing, keep your toiletry bag light, and don’t stress too much about the “just in case” items. Remember, the goal is to enjoy your getaway—not to lug around a heavy suitcase!
By following these tips and using our packing list, you’ll be ready for your weekend adventure with minimal fuss. Happy travels!