Travel Tips for a Weekend Getaway
Introduction
With a weekend getaway, you can explore new places without using up all of your vacation days. Whether you're looking for a romantic escape or an adventure with friends, we've got the tips to help make your next trip easy-breezy.
Make a list of what you really need
The first step to packing for a short trip is to make a list of what you really need. Don't pack things that you won't use, and don't pack things that you'll only use once. We recommend packing an empty drawstring bag that you can use as a daypack or a laundry bag / small tote so you're not carrying heavy luggage with you all the time.
Pack things that can serve more than one purpose.
We've done it a million times; packing something we know we'll only use once. Try your hardest to pack items that serve a dual purpose. For example, an empty drawstring bag can serve as both a daypack, or a bag for dirty laundry to help you stay organized!
Choose clothes that won't wrinkle for easy packing and easy wear.
We can't emphasize this enough: some clothes are MEANT for travel, and they really are worth it. Whether you'll be relaxing at a beach resort or backpacking through some remote part of the world, wrinkle free clothing that packs small is worth every penny. We love our NxTSTOP liftoff tees for men and women because they pack incredibly small, yet wrinkle free with a quick shake.
Plan your outfits in advance
We recommend packing by activity (if you know what you'll be doing each day), so that when it comes time to get ready in the morning, you know exactly what you need to wear. And choose your color combinations to make things easy on yourself. For example, bring a pack of t-shirts you can wear interchangeably during the weekend. If you're not a planner, the next tip is for you.
Pack your suitcase efficiently
Resist the urge to just cram everything into your backpack or suitcase. Here are a few tips:
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Roll clothes instead of folding them to save space.
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Use packing cubes or compression bags to keep your clothes organized and maximize space.
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Pack heavier items at the bottom of the suitcase and lighter items on top.
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Pack shoes in shoe bags to keep them separate from clothing.
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Utilize all the compartments of your luggage, including the pockets and zippered areas.
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Pack a separate bag for toiletries and keep them in a clear plastic bag for easy access and security check.
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Keep essentials like your passport, ID, and travel documents in a separate bag or pocket for easy access.
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Try to keep things in the same order as you’ll need them when you arrive, to avoid having to unpack everything.
Leave extra space in your luggage.
We can't tell you how many times we couldn't bring home souvenirs or new clothes because we had overpacked our luggage. If you're not sure exactly how the weather might be in your destination, it might be worth it to save space and go shopping when you get there. This way you'll ensure you get everything you need while you're there :)
Choose practical but stylish accessories
You want to make sure that you have all of the right accessories in place for your weekend getaway. These can be used to add a bit of style to an outfit without taking up too much space or adding too much weight. So if you're looking to go out for a classy dinner, some small accessories might be all you need instead of packing that fancy outfit you bought at Balenciaga. If you're planning to be outdoors all day, then make sure you have lightweight hat to keep you covered in the sun.
Start packing on Thursday instead of Friday.
The last thing you want to do is wait until Friday morning and then rush around like crazy trying to pack for your trip. You'll forget stuff and end up having to go back home to get it, or worse yet, you'll arrive at your destination without what you needed most. One of the best ways to ensure that you don't forget anything is by starting on Thursday evening instead. Just take some time out of your day and start sorting through everything and figuring out what needs packed away into a suitcase or duffel bag before bedtime. By doing this early in the week, there will be plenty of time for any last-minute additions or substitutions as well as ensuring that all of your toiletries are accounted for.
Conclusion
Hopefully you're ready for your weekend getaway now; we hope some of these tips help make it as enjoyable as possible and help to keep your luggage light. Got any more tips for us? Leave them in the comments below!