Photo: Helena Lopes
We all know that feel-good Friday feeling when we are looking forward to the weekend. Plans have already been made, tickets bought and hotels booked.
There is only one thing left to do, and like me, you are dreading it. The small suitcase is somewhere up in the loft. Where exactly, I don’t know.
After a brisk climb up the ladder there it is. The tag from the previous holiday brings back good memories apart from one. That trip to Japan kept me up until 2am getting my suitcase prepared. But that was a three week holiday – this time round it’s just the weekend – so it’s hand luggage only, with perhaps a duffel bag in tow if I can help it.
This time round it’s not going to be so terrifying. I have a list of things I’m taking, and because it’s a short city break, whatever I forget, I can always buy when I get there.
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The Most Important Things To Remember Frst Is The Essentials. So, Here Is My Short Getaway List:
- Documents: Your ID, passport (if going abroad), any travel documents or tickets you have booked, and travel insurance (especially important if going somewhere like USA, where hospital bills are astronomical).
- Clothes: Pack light, but bring versatile pieces you can mix and match. Consider the weather at your destination and what activities you will be doing. If it’s hot and sticky you may need extra.
- Toiletries: Pack travel-sized versions of your essentials, or consider refillable containers to save space.
- Medications: Bring medications you take regularly, along with a doctor’s note if needed (especially if traveling internationally).
- Electronics: Pack your phone, charger, headphones, and any other electronics you’ll need. Don’t forget a portable charger if you know you’ll be out and about all day.
- Entertainment: Pack a book, magazine, or download some movies or shows to watch on your phone or tablet. You can also bring a deck of cards or a small travel game.
- Travel Bag: Choose a bag that is the right size for your trip. A carry-on suitcase is ideal for a weekend getaway, but a backpack may be more suitable if you’re planning on doing a lot of walking or hiking.
Here Are Some Additional Items That You May Want To Consider Packing, Depending On Your Destination And Activities:
- Sunscreen and hat: If you’re going to be spending time outdoors, be sure to pack sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
- Swimsuit: If your destination has a pool, beach, or hot springs, you may want to pack a swimsuit.
- Umbrella or raincoat: If there’s a chance of rain, pack an umbrella or raincoat.
- First-aid kit: Pack a small first-aid kit with bandaids, antiseptic wipes, and any other medications you may need.
- Snacks: Pack some snacks for the plane or train ride, or for in-between meals.
- Water bottle: Bring a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout your trip.
- Cash: While many places accept credit cards, it’s always a good idea to have some cash on hand for emergencies or for small purchases.
The Exact Number Of Clothes You’ll Need For A Weekend Break Depends On Several Factors:
- Destination: Is it a beach getaway, a city break, a camping trip, or something else entirely? The climate and activities you’ll be doing will determine what kind of clothes you pack.
- Weather: Check the weather forecast for your destination before you pack. This will help you avoid packing for unexpected heatwaves or chilly evenings.
- Laundry facilities: Will you have access to laundry facilities at your accommodation? If so, you can pack a bit lighter.
However, Here’s A General Guideline For A Weekend Trip:
- Tops: 2-3 shirts/t-shirts, 1 light sweater or cardigan (depending on weather)
- Bottoms: 1 pair of jeans, 1 pair of shorts/skirt (depending on weather)
- Underwear: 3-4 pairs
- Socks: 3-4 pairs
- Sleepwear: 1 set of pajamas or comfortable clothes for sleeping
- Shoes: 1 pair of comfortable walking shoes, 1 additional pair depending on activities (e.g. sandals for beach, dressier shoes for nights out)
- Key is to pack versatile pieces: You can mix and match to create multiple outfits.
Here Are Some Additional Tips For Packing Light:
- Roll your clothes instead of folding them. This saves space and can help prevent wrinkles.
- Wear your bulkiest items on the plane. This will save space in your luggage.
- Choose a neutral color palette for your clothes. This will make it easier to mix and match pieces.
- Pack for layering. This will give you more outfit options and allow you to adjust to different temperatures.
Let us know what your packing experiences have been. We welcome your feedback and we can all learn from each other’s knowledge.