Heading on vacation for the weekend? Have a work trip coming up? Packing for a short journey is sometimes more challenging than packing for a few weeks. While it’s easy to overpack, you can fit everything you need into a small weekend bag. 

Packing for a trip might seem complicated, but it can be simpler than you think. While it’s easy to assume that packing is harder for a long trip than a short one, sometimes the opposite is true. For weekend getaways, you may want to bring more than you’ll need for just a few days. Maybe you find yourself filling a giant suitcase, but you don’t want to cart all this stuff around. 

Luckily, with the advice in this article, you’ll be an expert at packing for a short trip. Here are some simple tips for packing for a weekend getaway. 

Tip 1: Pick The Right Bag 

When packing for a shorter trip, you need to get a bag that allows you to maximize space. Finding a bag with many pockets that are also easy to carry will make the packing process much easier. While there’s no single perfect bag, you should find one that’s convenient for you. Some people prefer a bag that rolls, while others prefer a tote style; find one that fits everything you need. 

Tip 2: Bring Essential Clothes

When you pack for your trip, whether for work or fun, it’s easy to bring more outfits than you’ll realistically need. If you’re someone who tends to overthink contingencies, you may end up bringing way more clothing than you’d ever realistically wear.

To avoid this, ensure you stick with some basics. Most of the time, you can buy or wash clothes. So, stick with a couple pairs of bottoms and tops and wear some comfortable but stylish shoes.  

Tip 3: Keep A Toiletry Bag Ready To Go

Some people have more toiletries than others, but it’s generally wise to pare down your usual routine to the basics. While you still want to feel and look great on a weekend getaway, you don’t need to bring your entire bathroom cabinet.

Instead, consider getting doubles or smaller versions of your daily products. By having these in your toiletry bag ahead of time, you can throw the bag into your weekend luggage and be on your way. This way, you can refill things occasionally and won’t have to spend as much time packing and unpacking the same essentials.

Tip 4: Packing Cubes And Silicone Bags Are A Lifesaver

Another helpful packing tip that works for shorter and longer getaways is using space-saving packing tools. Items like packing cubs and reusable silicone bags can be used repeatedly, so they are worth the money.

They make it much easier to separate items and keep everything organized in your bag while utilizing space efficiently. 

Tip 5: Buy Things At Your Destination

Unless you’re on a tight budget or going somewhere more remote, you can save yourself space, time, and stress by waiting to buy certain items at your destination. Instead of trying to fit everything in your bag, consider picking up things like snacks or toiletries while there. You can also rest easy knowing that you can always buy another pack of underwear or a pillow if needed.

Packing for a short trip doesn’t have to be a hassle. Following these five tips and tricks, you’ll get the process down to a science. Then, you can focus on your actual trip instead of packing!