Weekend Trip Packing List: The Ultimate Guide for any Getaway

April 8, 2024

Packing for a weekend trip seems like it should be relatively easy, but if you’re a notorious over-packer (like me), it can pose some challenges. The key to packing for a quick 3-day getaway or short trip is to be prepared for your vacation without overpacking. And knowing how to pack for a weekend trip and what bags to use can also make the task much easier. Below I’m sharing my ultimate weekend trip packing list to help you prepare for any getaway – From clothing and toiletries to electronics and seasonal travel essentials, this list covers everything you need for a hassle-free weekend trip.

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Ultimate Weekend Trip Packing List – For Any Getaway

Weekend Trip Packing List: The Ultimate Guide for any Getaway

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Packing for a Weekend Trip 101

Packing for a weekend trip can be both exciting and daunting. Before knowing what to pack for your weekend getaway, knowing how to pack and what bags to use for your weekend trip is essential in first seeing how much luggage space you’re working with.

When it comes to weekend trips, there are several different types of luggage varieties to choose from, including backpacks, weekender bags, and carry-ons.

Weekender Bags & Luggage

The Best Weekend Backpack

Backpacks are versatile option for a weekend getaway because they offer hands-free convenience and the ability to easily maneuver through crowds and airports.

I will usually bring a backpack with me on any type of trip because of how versatile they are – It acts as my personal item onboard flights and doubles as a day bag for exploring around my destination. I have this luggage set from Amazon that includes a backpack, and this is the set I use the most often on my travels.

This camera backpack from Brevitē is perfect for me for weekend trips because it makes packing all my gear securely into one bag a breeze. I took this backpack with me on my solo road trip through the Southwest USA and have explored 6 National Parks with it already – and it has held up perfectly.

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Weekender Bags

As you can probably guess, a weekender bag is a popular luggage option for weekend trips – hence the name! Weekender bags are bags that are soft-sided, have a top zipper, and include have both a crossbody strap and shoulder straps for easy carrying. They are meant to be large enough to carry enough clothing, toiletries, and other essentials for a few days away.

Look for a weekender bag with multiple compartments, including a separate shoe/toiletry compartment, for more organized packing. Also opt for a weekender bag that is expandable, such as the one in this luggage set, so you can adjust how much storage space you need depending on the trip.

Some weekender bags may also include a USB charging port, such as this bag, so you can continue to charge your phone while on the go during your weekend trip.

Carry-On Luggage

Carry-ons are a practical and time-saving option for short trips, as they provide enough space for essentials and eliminate the need for waiting at baggage claim. They’re also the easiest to transport since they have wheels – So you won’t have to carry anything on your shoulders.

This carry-on luggage set is the one I use now for most of my travels because for under $100, it’s a great deal and includes everything I need. The backpack in this set also has straps to secure it to the wheeled luggage bag, so your luggage stays together and makes transporting everything a breeze – Not to mention, everything matches. 🙂

My other go-to carry-on suitcase is the Away Bigger Carry On bag. It’s a popular choice among travelers for a reason, and can hold a lot for how compact it is. (I traveled with just this carry-on for several different 1-week trips, and it held everything I needed!)

GET $20 OFF YOUR NEXT AWAY BAG HERE

Crossbody Bags & Day Bags

In addition to what luggage options to opt for when packing for your weekend trip, you will also want to consider a crossbody bag or day bag to use for exploring around your destination.

The best bags for this will strike a balance between size, durability, and convenience. Look for a bag that is spacious enough to carry your essential items for exploring during the day, but not too large and cumbersome.

Your destination may also play a role when choosing a good day bag for your weekend trip. For example, if you are traveling to a beach destination, you may want to opt for a beach tote. Or for a city weekend escape, you may want a crossbody purse that’s big enough to hold just a few essential items as you’re walking down sidewalks.

Ultimately, the best type of luggage for your weekend trip will depend on your personal preferences, your destination, the activities planned, and the amount of items you want to bring along. Each type has its own unique features and benefits, catering to different travel needs and styles.

How to Pack for a Weekend Trip

Packing Carry-On Only

Packing carry-on only for a weekend trip or short getaway can save you time, money, and headaches. I personally try to travel with only carry-on luggage for any kind of trip, because I don’t like the potential of my luggage being lost and/or having to wait at the luggage carousel after you land.

By learning how to pack a carry on bag like a pro, you can minimize your time spent at the airport, save money on checked luggage fees, and make the most of your weekend trip.

Weekend Trip Packing Tips

Here are some essential packing tips to consider for your next weekend getaway.

Packing Cubes

Once I started using packing cubes for my travels, I never looked back. Packing cubes are great for keeping your luggage organized and maximizing space. They also help to keep your clothes and other essentials neatly separated and easy to find in your luggage.

Some packing cubes also enable you to compress your clothes, which allows you to fit more into your suitcase. This added organization and space-saving benefits make packing cubes a must-have for any traveler.

These packing cubes are the ones I currently use and love, and they have held up great. Look for packing cubes that come in a set and have the extra compression zipper included.

Roll your Clothes for Extra Room

In addition to using packing cubes, another great way you can give yourself even more space in your luggage is by rolling your clothes.

Rolling your clothes not only gives you more space, but it also helps to prevent wrinkles and awkward fold creases.

This technique makes your clothing items a bit more maneuverable, so you can strategically fit more into your packing cubes than you would be able to by just folding.

Pack Versatile Items

One of the best ways to optimize the space in your suitcase for a weekend trip is to pack more versatile items. Choosing pieces that can be mixed and matched to create different outfits will not only help you save space and keep your suitcase light, but it will also give you more outfit options for your getaway.

A good way to do this is to pack more neutral colors that will go with anything. For example, a great versatile option is a neutral sweater or cardigan – It’s a lightweight piece that can be worn over dresses, paired with jeans and a t-shirt, or even used as a cover-up for the beach or pool. It’s also something that can be dressed up and down for various occasions.

Black leggings are another great versatile clothing option – I will usually wear these on my travel days during flights and roadtrips, so I bring them with me without even needing to pack them.

Check the Weather

It comes as no surprise that the weather at your destination will play a big part in what you pack for your weekend trip. Checking the weather ahead of time will help you to determine what essential items you need to include on your weekend trip packing list, and prevent any unwelcome surprises at your destination.

This will also help you determine how you pack your suitcase, as you will need to think about how to bring your bulkier items with you – Such as jackets and coats if you are going somewhere cold.

Leave Space for Souvenirs

When you’re packing for your weekend getaway (or any trip, for that matter), it’s a good idea to also leave some room in your luggage for souvenirs or any other fun things you may want to bring home with you.

The key to ensuring there is enough space in your suitcase for souvenirs is to pack light and avoid over-packing.

Start by making a list of essential items you’ll need for your trip and stick to it. (I have a complete checklist for you in this blog post – scroll down to use mine!)

Weekend Trip Packing List – The Essentials Checklist

Now that we’ve covered the basics on how to pack for your weekend getaway and what luggage to use, it’s time to start building your own packing list.

Here are the essential items you need to include on your weekend trip packing list, regardless of where you’re going:

Clothes

(3-5) Tops
(1-2) Pairs of Pants or Shorts
(3) Pairs of Socks
(3) Undergarments
Sleepwear
(1) Lightweight Jacket

Shoes

Comfortable Walking Shoes
Sandals / Flip Flops

Toiletries

Toiletry Bag
Toothbrush & Toothpaste
Sunscreen
Deodorant
Moisturizer / Body Lotion
Lip Balm
Hand Sanitizer
Razor
Hair Brush
Hair Ties / Hair Clips
Travel-Size Shampoo & Conditioner
Contact Lenses / Glasses
Makeup
Perfume / Cologne

Important Documents & IDs

Wallet
Photo ID / Driver’s License (& photo copies)
Credit Cards / Debit Cards (& photo copies)
Travel Insurance
Vaccination Card

Other Essentials

Medications / Supplements / Prescriptions
Memory Foam Neck Pillow
Eye Mask
Reusable Water Bottle
Noise Cancelling Headphones

Weekend Trip Packing List by Destination

What to add to your packing list for your weekend getaway also depends on where you’re going!

Beach Weekend Getaway Packing List

Swimwear
Beach Bag / Tote
Beach Towel
Wide-Brimmed Hat
Sunglasses
Sandals / Flip Flops
Sun Umbrella
Travel Cooler
Beach Coverup
Sunscreen
Insect Repellent
Rash Guard / Sun Protective Clothing

Weekend Trip Packing List for Outdoor Adventures & Road Trips

Ultimate Road Trip Packing List: All the Essentials You'll Need (+ Free Checklist!) | Weekend Trip Packing List: The Ultimate Guide for any Getaway

Hiking Shoes
Waterproof Shoes
Insect Repellant
SOS Communicator
First Aid Kit
Gasoline Canister
Spare Tire
Cell Phone Car Mount
Music Playlists / Audiobooks
AAA / Roadside Assistance
Trash Bags
Paper Towels / Wet Wipes

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Ultimate Road Trip Packing List: All the Essentials You’ll Need (+ Free PDF!)

Free Road Trip Checklist

Get your road trip checklist PDF freebie here!

Ultimate Road Trip Packing List: All the Essentials You'll Need (+ Free Checklist!)

International Weekend Getaway Packing List

Passport & Passport Holder
Visa for your destination (if required)
Universal Travel Adapter
Extra USB Charging Cables
Memory Foam Neck Pillow
Eye Mask
Photo Copies of IDs / Credit Cards / Passport

Weekend Staycation Packing List

Extra USB Phone Charging Cables
Powerbank
Camera
Reusable Water Bottle
Noise Cancelling Headphones
Sportswear / Workout Clothes
Accessories
Cash / ATM or Debit Card
Credit Cards
Medications / Supplements / Prescriptions
Health Insurance Card
Extra Pillows / Blankets

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Weekend Trip Packing List for a Wedding / Event

Evening / Formal Wear
Garment Bag
Travel Steamer
Travel Shoe Bags
Accessories / Jewelry
Small Handbag / Clutch
Travel Hair Straightener
Travel Makeup Bag

Weekend Trip Packing List by Season

What time of year you are traveling (and what the weather looks like at your destination) is also a factor in what should be on your weekend trip packing list. Here are a few essential items to bring with you depending on the season: