It’s summer time, which means it’s the season for weekend trips and vacations. Today I wanted to share my guide to packing for a weekend getaway, and how to fit it all in one carry on. I’ve always tried to carry everything on the plane because I hate waiting at baggage claim, but in the past couple of years I have discovered a few tricks to packing for a weekend getaway.
Take a duffle bag, not a roller suitcase: I used to take roller suitcases because they’re easier to carry through the airport, but I discovered that this is definitely the wrong way to travel, especially if you’re flying at a busy time. Often when flights are packed, people with roller suitcases will be asked to gate check them due to space, however those with duffle bags are never bothered. I was once at the end of boarding group A, however because I had a roller bag, I was required to gate check it. On the flip side, I have also been one of the last people to get on the plane with a duffle, and no one even batted an eye to me carrying on with my overstuffed bag.
You may be wondering how this could be possible, and I’ll tell you. A duffle bag can be stuffed into any available crevice under the seat, or in tight spaces in the overhead bin, however roller suitcases don’t have much flexibility when it comes to maneuvering them.
They key to travel clothing is versatility: When you don’t have much space, packing items with multiple functions is key. One of my go-to items to bring on almost any trip is black skinny jeans. Because they are black, they can be dressed up, but you can also wear them for a casual outfit just as easily. I usually also bring a black blazer and a white sleeveless blouse for the same reason. Think about items that you can wear for different occasions, and items which can be styled with various different outfits.
List out all of the events and/or places you’re going to: Make sure you note all the places and events you’re going to so you can pack accordingly. For instance, if you’re going to a nice dinner, pack a jersey dress that is easily folded up, but is nice enough to wear out to eat. Similarly, you won’t want to pack all denim, blazers, and heels if you’re planning on going to the beach. Looking at your itinerary while you’re packing will ensure that you don’t forget items that will be necessary to your daily events.
Cover all of your bases with shoes: My boyfriend would argue that I always pack too many shoes, however I’m a firm believer in covering your bases and bringing the shoes you need to be comfortable in. For me, this consists of a pair of flats, a pair of heels, and depending if its cold or warm out, a pair of boots or sandals. Packing footwear for all occasions will ensure that you’re always comfortable, and prepared for whatever the weekend throws at you.
Figure out what amenities will be at the place you’re staying: If you’re staying with a friend or at a nice hotel, chances are that there will be shampoo, body wash, etc, which means that you don’t have to pack those items. Figure out what you need and what you can omit to save on space and keep your luggage light.
Always pack extra underwear: Does there even need to be an explanation? Always pack extra underwear, because you’d rather have too many pairs than not enough. End of story.
So there you have it, my ultimate guide to packing for a weekend getaway. The bottom line is pack light and pack smart. Make sure you have the right clothes for each occasion, and try to pack items that work well for mixing and matching to create multiple outfits. Do you have any packing tips that you couldn’t live without? Share them below or post them on instagram with #writestyles so I can see!