Everyone deserves a vacation to relax and unwind. However, not everyone has the luxury of taking a whole week off—so just a weekend getaway will suffice. A three-day trip, or even just a much needed night away, is a fun and exciting way to escape the day-to-day.
Depending on the purpose of your quick trip, whether it’s to take in some new scenery, nurture your artistic sensibilities, escape a polluted urban atmosphere, or just break away from the norm, you should prepare a quick packing list to make sure nothing is missed. Packing for a weekend trip can be tricky, but the best way to be ready to roll when the weekend comes around is to put together an itinerary, so you know what kinds of activities to pack for.
But what exactly do you pack in your bag? Rothy’s here to help. Follow these tips to make sure your trip goes smoothly.
Tips on Packing for a Short Trip
Once you have a good idea of your plans for your weekend getaway, it’s time to put together a packing list. Packing lists started well in advance of the trip will likely be the most representative of all you would like to do, whether it’s lounging by the beach, exploring city streets or taking in the culture of a new destination.
If you leave on Friday, you will need enough clothes for approximately three days and two nights—this should be your starting point when you are planning your trip. When it comes to clothing, you don’t need to overdo it. Especially if you’re trying to fit everything into one carry-on bag. We recommend bringing one pair of very comfortable and versatile travel shoes, such as sneakers or flats. Pack three outfits, three pairs of underwear (an extra pair or two never hurts), one set of pajamas and three pairs of socks. If you’re planning on going out to dinner or attending a special event, consider bringing an additional outfit and pair of shoes that are a bit more elevated. Packing smarter with a capsule wardrobe is always best, so you can have more flexibility in your wardrobe when you travel. Learn more about finding the best pair of travel shoes for your trip.
If you are struggling to decide which outfits to bring and are starting to feel that you are overpacking, consider rolling your clothes before putting them into your suitcase. Another option is to invest in packing cubes or travel pouches, which not only help you fit more into your bag but they also help you stay organized once you arrive.
Creating Your Weekend Packing List
Even the most seasoned travelers need a well-planned packing list for quick getaways. Toiletries are some of the most forgotten things when it comes to packing for a trip. Check out this list of items and check them off as you pack to make sure nothing is left behind:
Toiletry Packing List
Toiletries are some of the most forgotten things when it comes to packing for a trip. Check out this list of items and check them off as you pack to make sure nothing is left behind:
- Toothbrush
- Toothpaste
- Sunscreen
- Makeup
- Prescription medications
- Hair care products
- Deodorant
- Perfume/cologne
- Razor
- Phone charger
Next, you’ll want to make sure you have all of your basics and essentials, like outfits for each day of your trip, a pair of sturdy shoes and any chargers you need for your phone, watch or laptop.
Clothing & Essentials Packing List
- Clothing for each day
- 2-3 tops (shirts, blouses, sweaters, etc)
- 1-2 bottoms (jeans, shorts, skirt, etc)
- Underwear
- Socks
- Stylish travel shoes
- Pajamas
- Jacket (light, medium or heavy depending on the weather)
- Travel documents
- Chargers (phone, laptop, watch, tablet, etc)
- Optional: dressy outfit and shoes
After you’ve packed all your essentials—i.e. your clothes, shoes and toiletries—and you still have more space in your bag, you can start packing miscellaneous items. Depending on the goal of your trip, these items may change. Here’s a list of optional items that may make your three-day vacation a little more comfortable.
Other Items to Pack
- Book (or mobile e-reader)
- Refillable water bottle
- Snacks
- Pillow from home
- Blanket from home
- Rain jacket
- Umbrella
Another factor to consider is what type of destination you are traveling to. Is this a beach vacation or a mountain getaway? Do you plan on sitting by a pool for hours on end or are you going to lace up your sneakers and hike up a mountain? Where you are going and what you have planned should dictate the other types of items you are bringing. If you are going to the beach, you will need a pair of sandals. If it’s going to be chilly where you’re going, don’t forget to pack warmer clothes and a pair of boots. Review the following list of items before you zip up your bag for good!
Summer Getaway Packing List
- Running or hiking shoes
- Bathing suit
- Sunglasses
- Sandals
- Beach towel
- Travel-sized sunscreen
- Sun hat or baseball cap
- Beach bag
- Waterproof phone pouch
- Portable or handheld fan
Winter Trip Packing List
- Jacket or coat
- Thick socks
- Scarf
- Hat
- Gloves
- Boots
- Hand warmers
- Ski gear
City Break Packing List
- Sneakers
- Camera
- Light jacket
- Compact handbag or purse
- Dressy dinner outfit
Another important part of the planning process to avoid overpacking is to understand what you shouldn’t bring. If you are staying at a hotel, leave the shampoo and conditioner at home. If you run out while you’re there, simply go to the front desk and ask for a few more of those travel sized bottles. Hotels also usually provide hairdryers as well, so feel free to leave yours at home to free up more space.
Best Bags For Your Weekend Trips
Rothy’s Weekender bag or Travel Duffel are great options when packing for a quick trip or overnight stay, with multiple compartments for different types of belongings made sturdy enough to fit everything you need. They fit a few days of clothing, toiletries, and accessories in the main compartment, and leave you just enough room for a few extras. Opting for a smaller carry-on will also help avoid having to wait for baggage claim, worrying about lost luggage or paying extra fees.
If you’re looking for a smaller travel purse or personal item to pack for a weekend getaway, Rothy’s also has a selection of compact backpacks, crossbody, shoulder and tote bags that are perfect for excursions, day trips and city exploring. The Travel Sling is a particularly great option for a smaller bag, with adjustable straps and a lightweight design so you can easily wear it across the chest or as a fanny pack.
Final Notes: How to Pack for a Quick Trip
The best three-day packing list will align with a scheduled itinerary where each item packed directly correlates with the trip’s activities, in addition to following a standard packing list. It's also a good idea to try and begin planning your packing list as far in advance as possible to make sure nothing is forgotten. With a well-planned packing list, you reduce the chance of being caught out while you're away if plans evolve.
Get the most out of your weekend trip with Rothy’s travel guide, full of helpful tips for footwear, packing and beyond. The most important thing to remember is to actually use the time away from home to relax.
