What to Pack for a Weekend Away
Photo: Pinterest
When packing for a weekend away, it's always best to pack as light as possible because, reminder: you need to unpack it all a couple days later once the weekend is over. I’m personally really bad at that part...I’m sort of infamous for throwing in a few new items and zipping that same bag back up for my next weekend trip. But, if you pack correctly, it works out fine!
When packing, start with your bags. I normally like to bring an overnight bag, like the Longchamp Le Pliage Nylon Weekender. Then, I bring a small purse that I can use at night, and I fold up a canvas tote and tuck that into my bag to use as a beach bag.
Then, I bring my essentials. Underwear, socks, bras, and pajamas. Only bring one pair of pajamas whether you are going away for one night or three! Don’t forget bathing suits, a book, and sunglasses.
Then, I plan out my outfits for the nighttime or any events I will be attending that weekend. So, normally, I pick out two complete outfits for going to dinner that can both be worn with the same pair of shoes. These are the only outfits I plan ahead of time.
For the rest of the weekend, I bring neutral basics that can be mixed and matched. For me, these are often sweatpants and a sweatshirt, a sundress, exercise clothes (good for working out or just grabbing coffee), jean shorts, a t-shirt and tank top, and comfortable sandals like Birkenstocks. These pieces can be paired together to create a lounge outfit, beach cover up, a warmer nighttime lounge option, a casual look, or a run-out-the-door look. I try to limit myself to two pairs of shoes total (three if I really convince myself I’m going to work out and decide to pack sneakers), and pack all my miscellaneous clothes in white, black, grey, nude, and denim. This way, I can easily put together an outfit for any plan that may come up.
I also like to pack a little pouch with my most important and essential items. I usually fill it with my wallet, AirPods, phone charger, lip balm, keys, and hair tie. Putting all of this into one pouch makes it easy to keep everything together and transfer it from purse to beach bag to overnight bag with ease.
When it comes to toiletries and makeup, I love packing multi-use items to save space. I also tend to skip a few of the extra steps in my skincare routine and keep it to just cleanser, moisturizer, and lip balm. As for makeup, I usually don’t bring foundation because I tend to just use concealer and powder as a base in the summer. I also bring a makeup sponge as my main tool so I don’t need a ton of brushes. I don’t bring any eyeshadow because palettes take up so much room, and I usually just use bronzer and highlight to create an eye look.
I always overpack in the early summer, but get it down to a science by August. Hopefully these tips can help save you some time and space!