Off for a weekend break? But, don’t quite know where to start with the packing? Don’t worry, that’s where we come in.
For some reason, packing for a weekend away often feels a lot more stressful than packing for a longer holiday. But don't worry, with some simple planning you can easily take the stress out of packing for a weekend away.
Whilst what you need to pack will mostly depend on where you are going, the weather and what you will be doing. We have put together a list of helpful packing tips below:
1. Take a good quality suitcase
If you don’t have a stylish, durable weekend bag, it might be a good idea to invest in one. Whether you are heading off on an international trip or for a weekend away in the nearest city, make sure you have a good quality suitcase or bag to take with you.
For an ideal weekend bag, opt for a medium sized suitcase with lots of interior and exterior pockets. Suitcases and weekend bags with lots of pockets are great, as they allow you to store everything neatly inside.
2. Pack entertainment materials
As well as packing your clothes and other bits and bobs, make sure that you also pack some things to keep you entertained. It’s easy to get bored when on a long car or train journey, so finding ways to entertain yourself is important.
To keep yourself entertained, an Ipad, Kindle, tons of magazines and an Ipod are all essential. Make sure that before you head off, you update your music library on your IPod and download any films you want to watch onto your tablet.
Try not to pack your Ipad and other entertainment bits in your main bag. Instead, carry a satchel or handbag with you to store them in, so that they are easy to access.
3. Choose a travel outfit for both journeys
Instead of packing two different travel outfits, just pack one and wear it for both journeys. By packing one travel outfit instead of two, you can save room in your suitcase for other essentials.
Make sure to layer up, as train and car climates can quickly become overly hot or cold, and make sure to pick something comfortable to wear.
4. Pack multifunctional items of clothing
The main problem with packing for a weekend away is limited space, so it is important to think carefully about what you pack.
Instead of trying to fit four or five different outfits into your suitcase. Consider packing multifunctional items, aka things that can be worn in various ways throughout the trip.
For example, taking your favourite pair of skinny jeans is an excellent choice. As not only can they be worn during the day, they can also be dressed up with a nice top and heels for an evening out.
Start thinking about items of clothing that can be worn as part of different outfits. Lay out all your favourite pieces of clothing on the bed and come up with some outfit ideas for your trip. Try to only choose items that can be worn as part of two or more outfit combinations, as this will help you to avoid over packing.
Once you have come up with some ideas, start thinking about the outfits you will need whilst you are away. For example, you may need an outfit to travel in, a couple of day outfits, an outfit for wearing out to dinner, and an outfit for relaxing by the pool in. Work out the best outfit combinations for each occasion using as many multifunctional clothing items as you can.
5. Take advantage of accessories
On a weekend away, where suitcase space is limited, your accessories become your best friend. Not only are they lightweight and easy to pack, but the right accessories also have the ability to transform any outfit into something special.
You can use accessories to make the same piece of clothing look entirely different. For example, for a casual day look, you could team a little black dress with some bright, colourful beads and sandals. You could then where the same dress with a pretty necklace and high heels for a sophisticated evening look.
6. Pack empty bags
Inside your suitcase, make sure to pack a couple of empty bags, either plastic of hemp will do. Plastic bags always come in really handy, as they can be used for storing anything in. From storing dirty laundry to keeping your phone chargers and jewellery well organised, plastic bags can be really useful.
Don’t be tempted to leave you wash bag behind. Although you will most probably be able to pick up any bits that you need once you arrive, depending on where you are going they may be more expensive to buy. Plus, there is no guarantee that you will be able to get hold of your preferred brand, so it is always best to take your own wash products with you.
Pack a small wash bag with a mini shampoo, conditioner and shower gel in, as well as makeup remover, moisturiser and your toothbrush. Don't forget to pack your makeup in another bag.
8. Be prepared
Make sure to do lots of research on your destination before you go, that way you will be able to pack everything you need. Go online and visit travel sites, social media sites and talk to friends, and find out what they would recommend.
As well as planning your outfits, take the time to plan out all the things you want to see and do whilst you are there. By choosing what you want to do before you arrive, you can make reservations and book tickets for sights and attractions in advance.
9. Keep your suitcase light
Do your best not to over pack. Remember, you are only going away for a few days, so there is no need to pack your entire wardrobe.
As a rule you should be able to easily lift your weekend bag, it should not be so heavy that you struggle with it.
Great suggestions! Sometimes I forget very important things to pack like a wash bag. Thank you for sharing
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