Weekend Trip Packing List

Weekend Trip Packing List - White Tee + Jeans with Spinner Suitcase

School is back in session for us, so we’re back to shorter travel plans. We’ve been slowly (re)exploring cities around Northern California. We have a few favorites and a few that we can’t wait to check out. Below is my basic weekend trip packing list. It obviously varies by season and destination (a wedding to attend requires another level not included here).

I can’t tell you why or how, but somehow when I pack for a weekend getaway, I feel like I pull out enough for a week abroad. Part of that is my excitement for stylish clothing, but I think another part is that I’m slowly getting better at packing less for international trips – just look at my Ireland packing list and my Italy packing list.

CONTENTS

Ok but there are some basics for everybody’s weekend trip packing list – namely you don’t need 16 outfits for a short weekend. You really don’t need that many outfits for a long weekend, come to think of it. So let’s talk about versatility and narrowing down what you’ll need, what items are most versatile (no matter the destination), and maximizing the little things!

Weather is a big determination when creating your weekend packing list. So check the weather and plan accordingly. Nothing creates problems like packing for what you think the weather will be, not what’s actually predicted!

And if you’re attending a special occasion, then obviously you need to amend for your needs. Further, a beach destination in July is going to require different items then a mountain getaway in October. So, use the following as a guide and adjust as needed.

How to Pack for a Weekend Trip

Lay Out Your Clothes

Ok, before you even get out your weekender bag or carry-on bag, you need to lay out your clothes. This helps limit overpacking. I like to lay everything I *think* I need on the bed. Then I start to make the outfits I’ll wear all weekend. With so few clothes, I find it easy to remember most of the time what I plan to wear, but I know some people who take photos of their outfits so they can look back while they’re traveling.

Embrace Rewearing

Second, emphasize items that can be reworn. Shoes are a big one for me. I love shoes. And shoes love taking up space and making my bag heavy. I limit myself to 2 pairs of shoes – usually a comfortable daytime pair and something a bit nicer for dinner (usually still comfortable and good for walking).

Accessories

Third, I’d recommend embracing accessories to save from overpacking and to save space. Jewelry, a hat, and even your lips colors can really change the vibe of an outfit without taking up too much room. Easily sashay from daytime sightseeing to dinner with a quick change of shoes, an elegant piece of jewelry, and maybe a bold lip color!

Stick to your bag/suitcase size

If what you think should hold your items doesn’t, it’s time to downsize. I actually don’t even use packing cubes, but if they work for you, go ahead. For a road trip destination, I like a weekender bag or a spinner suitcase. For flying, however, I will only do a spinner suitcase (carry on or otherwise) – I don’t need to get tired hauling my bag through an airport.

What to Pack for a Weekend Trip

Ok. Here are my basics for a weekend trip packing checklist (not annotated below and pinnable image for easy access below).

2 Bottoms

I’m always on board with black pants, so they’re my recommendation for the first pair of bottoms. Black jeans are usually my go to because I love jeans, but you can pick the silhouette that suits you. For some ideas on versatility, check out my collection of ideas of what to wear with black jeans.

And then a second option. This is going to be weather dependent. Are shorts or a skirt a good idea? Need more pants for cooler weather? You can see what I wear for fall travel outfits for a good idea.

3 tops

Shirts take up very little room and I’ll be the first person to tell you that I often want to change my top for dinner after a day of sightseeing. This also allows for any happenstance spillage – it happens!!

I almost always have at least one organic cotton tshirt when traveling. They’re ideal for planes (easily layered or not). They also go under outer layers simply.

Beyond that, it’s again weather dependent. In fall and spring, I always like a lightweight sweater. For hot destinations, a tank top is a must. And in winter, I’m usually in a warmer sweater.

1 tailored, comfortable piece of outerwear

Obviously a coat or sweater is necessary in cold weather, but I think an appropriate outer layer is good no matter the season. They’re mandatory when flying, but you also never know when you might get a cool night in summer (or end up in a chilly restaurant)!

If there’s a chance of rain when you’re going, I love this packable rain jacket for nearly every destination. It doesn’t take up much space and keep you warm and dry in most scenarios.

Shoes

Whether I’m traveling for two weeks or two days, I’m trying to only take two pairs of shoes. Full disclosure, I don’t always win this battle. Remember this is a judgement free zone. Anyway, try to opt for a pair of comfortable, walking shoes and a pair of comfortable, “dress” shoes.

The walking shoes can be anything from great sneakers or slip ons to Birkenstocks. And then for “dress” shoes, I’m not usually talking about my Sarah Flint pumps. It’s more along the lines of some chic loafers or mules – comfortable but a little nicer!

1 purse for day & night

It’s easy to get caught up in accessories, so let’s just say for this big one, that just one bag will do. If I’m traveling by plane, I like to pick a purse that will fold flat in my bag or suitcase. Then I have my backpack (see the best work travel bags for women – that also works as a plane bag for anyone).