What to pack for a trip: The ultimate weekend getaway packing list

You’ve planned the perfect weekend getaway, but when it comes to packing, finding that sweet spot can be tricky. You either overpack, lugging around half your wardrobe, or underpack and find yourself reusing the same outfit all weekend. We’ve all been there. While your Costa Rica packing list might differ from one for Sweden during the winter, the essentials remain the same. While some prefer to keep it simple, others like to bring extra options, so either approach is totally okay. Whichever style of traveling you like, this article will give you a solid foundation on what to pack for a few days, regardless of the season or destination. To make it even easier, we’ve prepared a handy downloadable checklist to make sure you don’t miss anything for your next trip. Let’s get packing!

original tiktok svg
original x svg
original facebook svg
original instagram svg
original youtube svg

15 min read

What to pack for a trip: The ultimate weekend getaway packing list
Click here to download the weekend trip packing checklist

Clothing essentials 

Deciding on what clothes to bring on your trip can be a headache. You want to bring enough to stay comfortable but not overdo it. The trick is planning ahead and bringing clothes you can mix and match. This way, you’ll be ready for anything the weekend throws at you and won’t overstuff your bag. 

Of course, this packing list is more of a helping suggestion than a hard rule. Everyone has different needs, so don’t feel limited by the list. If you’re someone who likes to pack light, that’s great! But if you’d rather bring extra pieces for comfort, it’s totally fine, too. These suggestions might also change depending on where you’re going, what you’ll be doing, or your style, so feel free to adjust them to suit your plans.

If you realize you're missing something or simply don’t want to pack it, you can always shop locally while you’re there. Plus you might find something unique and bring home a memorable souvenir.

Tops and outerwear

Choosing the right tops and outerwear is all about versatility. Pack clothes that can be layered and dressed up or down to fit any part of your trip. You might want to bring two or three comfortable, adaptable T-shirts or other simple tops. If you plan on having a fancier dinner or a special outing, consider adding a nicer top to the mix. These tips are just suggestions, and it’s all about what makes you feel comfortable. What works for some might not suit others.

For a summer trip, lightweight and breathable clothing made of natural fabrics like linen or cotton will help your skin breathe and keep you comfortable. If the weather’s colder, you can swap short sleeves for long or layer up.

As for outerwear, consider the weather where you’re going. A light jacket or sweater could be great for a mild climate, while a warmer coat or puffer jacket is more suitable for colder destinations. If you’re traveling during spring or summer, something like a denim jacket is a versatile option to consider.

Bottoms and shoes

For bottoms, it's good to keep it simple and practical. You could pack a pair of trusty jeans or pants for most activities, and if the weather allows, you might consider bringing shorts or a skirt. However, be mindful that shorts may not be suitable for every culture or situation, so always check the dress code for the places you’ll be visiting. If you're headed somewhere colder to places where shorts might not be appropriate, comfy sweatpants or leggings can be a great alternative.

When it comes to shoes, comfort is key. Avoid packing brand-new shoes that haven’t been broken in because nothing ruins a trip faster than sore feet or blisters. Choose weather-appropriate and comfortable footwear based on your plans. So, pack walking shoes — sneakers or sturdy sandals – for exploring during the day. Usually, packing just one versatile pair of shoes that works for both daytime and evenings is enough. Still, if you know you’ll be heading out somewhere fancy or prefer another option, add a second pair of flats or boots that suit the outfit you’ll be wearing.

Underwear and sleepwear

We’ve all done it — packing one pair of underwear for each day, plus a couple extra “just in case,” and before you know it, you’ve packed more than you need for a short trip.

When it comes to packing underwear, it’s always good to plan for the days you’ll be away and add an extra pair or two for peace of mind. Three or four pairs should work well for a weekend, but it all depends on your needs. Factors like your planned activities, how much you tend to sweat, or where you are in your cycle might mean you need to pack more.

Two or three pairs of socks should do, but if you’ll be doing a lot of walking or expecting different weather, it might be a good idea to pack a couple more. As for sleepwear, a single comfy set is usually enough for a short trip. However, everyone has different needs, so pack what feels right for you.

Personal care

When packing toiletries, focus on bringing what you’ll need to feel comfortable and refreshed during your trip. This section will work as a starting point, but if you feel like you need extra skincare, hair care, or makeup, add them to the list. After all, you’re here to feel comfortable.

It can be handy to pack travel-sized items (under 100 ml or 3.4 oz). Doing so will help you get through airport security faster, save space if you're using a carry-on, and make your bag lighter. If you need more, you can always pick up additional products once you arrive.

Toiletries and skincare

Start with the must-haves — a toothbrush, toothpaste, and deodorant. Then, pack your preferred shampoo, conditioner, and body wash. Many hotels will provide these items anyway, so it’s worth checking ahead to avoid taking up too much space in your bag.

For skincare, keep it simple. Pack a good-quality cleanser, moisturizer, and lip balm, and add other products that are part of your daily routine. Everyone’s skincare routine is different, so pack what works for you and take into account the climate of your destination. And don’t forget to pack sunscreen, even if you’re not headed to the beach. 

Makeup and personal grooming

For makeup, pack what you usually use, or skip it entirely if it’s not part of your routine. A small kit can go a long way — mascara, a lip product that works for both day and night, and a compact or BB cream for light coverage. But think about what you’ll be doing, what you feel comfortable with, and the looks you want to achieve. 

If makeup isn’t part of your routine, bring your shaving tools or other grooming products you prefer. Also, don’t forget the must-haves like a hairbrush, razor, and a few hair ties. If needed, bring menstrual products, even if you’re not expecting to use them. You’ll thank yourself later for being prepared.

Tech essentials

These days, not forgetting your tech gadgets is just as important as your toothbrush. Having the right devices can make a huge difference in your weekend getaway. This section will help you make sure you've packed all the essentials so you won’t have to worry about missing anything important during your trip. But, of course, if you need more — pack more.

A phone, charger, and adapter

Your phone is probably your most important travel companion, so make sure you have everything to keep it powered up. Pack your phone charger and consider bringing a portable charger or power bank for when you're on the go. 

If you're traveling internationally, don’t forget an adapter. It’s easy to overlook, but nothing is worse than arriving at your hotel and realizing you can't plug in your devices.  Check ahead to see what type of socket you’ll need so you can pack the right one.

Mobile network access

Staying connected while traveling is essential. You don’t want to get lost wandering the streets of a new city or be without a translator when you need it. 

You could stick with your home plan and face hefty roaming fees or use a traditional SIM card, but they can be tricky when traveling abroad. You’ll have to find a store, deal with language barriers, and possibly swap out your primary SIM, losing access to your usual number if your phone doesn’t support dual SIMs.

There’s an easier solution — an eSIM. With an eSIM, you can skip the physical card and activate your plan digitally. Just download the eSIM app before you leave, and you’ll be all set as soon as you arrive at your destination. One eSIM works across multiple countries, so there’s no need to switch SIMs.

Headphones and a camera

Headphones are one of those travel essentials you never realize you need until you do. A good pair, especially noise-canceling, can make a lot of difference in a noisy café or on a long flight.

If you're into photography, consider bringing a camera, but only if it’s worth the extra space in your bag. If not, your phone is probably all you need. Just make sure it has enough storage to capture all your weekend memories without running out of space halfway through the trip.

Entertainment

​​What you pack for entertainment depends on the pace of your trip. If you plan on doing a lot of sightseeing, you might not need much because you’ll be busy exploring. But if you have some free time, a light book or an e-reader, like a Kindle, can be a nice way to unwind.

A tablet or iPad could help catch up on shows or stay productive. For group trips, a board or card game is always a good option to pass the time. Just bring whatever feels right for how you plan to spend your weekend.

Documents and money

Your travel documents and money are non-negotiable, even if you plan on packing light. Here’s your weekend packing list of the most important documents to stay organized.

An ID or passport, wallet, and travel insurance

First things first, make sure you have your ID or passport. It’s the one item you can’t forget. Double-check that it’s valid and ready to go, especially if traveling internationally.

For your wallet, having a mix of cash and cards is a good idea. A couple of credit or debit cards should cover most situations, but having a little local currency on hand can be useful in case you end up somewhere that doesn’t take cards.

Depending on where you're headed, it's always smart to have travel insurance in case of emergencies. It’s one of those items you hope not to use, but you’ll be glad it’s there if you need it.

A printed itinerary and a local guide

You never know what can happen, so having printed copies of your travel tickets, personal documents, reservations, and itinerary is always good. In some countries, having paper versions can be a lifesaver, especially when you don’t know what the situation will be with Wi-Fi there.

It’s worth bringing a local map or travel guide if you're visiting a new destination. While your phone works great, a paper map can be a backup if you run out of battery or end up somewhere without cell reception.

Extras

When you’re out exploring, comfort really makes all the difference. Sure, the sights are what you came for, but having a few extras can make your weekend much smoother. These small items can come in handy along the way.

A reusable water bottle

Consider taking a water bottle to stay hydrated on the go. Many places have refill stations or water fountains, which will save you from having to buy overpriced bottled water.

Snacks

You never know when hunger will strike while you're out exploring. Granola bars, nuts, or fruit are easy to carry and can come to the rescue when you need a quick bite to eat. 

Medication

Getting a small first aid kit is wise. Pain relievers, band-aids, and other emergency medication will help you avoid the hassle of finding a pharmacy when a headache hits, you get a blister from all that walking, or you eat something that doesn’t sit well with your stomach. Don't forget the essential medication you take regularly because getting them abroad can sometimes be challenging.

A bag

While you might think you don't need more than one bag for your trip and your weekender bag or carry-on luggage is enough, bringing a small bag to carry around during the day can save you a lot of discomfort. You don’t want to be lugging around a big weekender bag or stuffing everything into your pockets. A tote or small backpack is perfect. It’ll fit your essentials, like water, snacks, and maybe a jacket, and have some room for souvenirs you pick up along the way.

Weather-specific items

You never know what the weather will bring, so pack smart and check the weather forecast before leaving. Weather-specific items can make all the difference in how enjoyable your trip is.

An umbrella is a must for rainy days, especially when heading to places with unpredictable weather. Sunglasses are always a good item to have, no matter the season or destination. They protect your eyes from the sun and UV rays and are a stylish addition to any outfit. If you’re heading somewhere cold, don’t forget to pack gloves, a hat, and a scarf.

A checklist for a long weekend vs. a short weekend

Packing for a longer stay or a short trip isn’t that different. It’s about considering the trip’s duration. You’ll need a few more items for a long weekend trip, like extra underwear or socks, but the other essentials remain the same.

For a quick getaway (1 night, 2 days), it's best to keep it simple. A couple of outfits should be enough — one for travel and one for daytime activities, with a third if you'd like something different for the evening. Toiletries can be kept minimal, just the basics like a toothbrush, deodorant, and other personal items you prefer. For tech, bring your phone, charger, and maybe headphones for the trip. If you feel you need more, go ahead and pack extra items that help you feel comfortable.

A long weekend packing list (2 or 3 nights) should be more flexible. Depending on your plans, consider packing an extra outfit or two and perhaps an extra pair of shoes. Your toiletries set will also expand to accommodate the longer stay — items like shampoo, makeup, or skincare can help you feel fresh and comfortable throughout your trip. Ultimately, pack what works for you while keeping it simple.

How do I not overpack for a weekend trip?

The secret to not overpacking for a weekend getaway is to keep it simple and pack smart. Choose versatile clothing and staple pieces that can work for both daytime and evening, and only bring what you truly need. 

A great rule of thumb — if you’re unsure whether to pack something, ask yourself if you’ll honestly use it during the weekend. If the answer is no, leave space for items you absolutely need. Prioritize the items that serve multiple purposes and leave behind anything non-essential. With a bit of planning ahead, you can travel light and enjoy your trip without the burden of extra luggage. Happy travels!

Click here to download the weekend trip packing checklist

FAQ

  • original tiktok svg
    original x svg
    original facebook svg
    original instagram svg
    original youtube svg

    saily blog author aurelija s
    Aurelija Skebaitė

    Aurelija loves traveling and snapping pictures, so having data abroad is as essential to her as having clean underwear. She believes everyone should be able to go online wherever they are and wants to help make that happen with her content.