So, as you may have guessed – I am a big fan of
weekend getaways. Considering I have gone on at least five in the past seven
months, and have two more lined up for this month…I suppose you could say I
like them! LOL I love getting out and discovering hidden gems that are close to
home.
Whenever I go away with someone, it never fails –
I’m always asked, “What are you packing? What should I pack?” I think it’s
because I have gone on so many weekend getaways and I have gotten the essential
packing down to a tee!
When I go away for a weekend, I usually bring
the same basics, making minor changes depending on location and occasion. I
used to struggle between the two extremes of packing too much (a gal needs
options!) and packing too little. But, rest assured, you can make it through a
3-day weekend without having to pack your entire closet - I promise! Of course,
you will want to bring enough clothing to get your through all scenarios on
your itinerary.
Be Organized
I am not a fan of clutter. I don't like seeing piles of stuff everywhere, struggling to find something because it wasn't put back where it belongs...ugh. Nope, none of that. I'm also not a fan of lose cords everywhere. So to stay organized, I like to put all the cords, batteries and whatnot, for each device in a separate Ziploc baggie. This also helps when you are checking out of the hotel so you can ensure you have everything by filling each Ziploc bag back up. I also like to have all of my travel documents and confirmation numbers handy in one place.
Plan Ahead
Plan out your outfits
ahead of time for each day. Make a list and check it twice! Have you made reservations for a nice dinner?
Be sure to pack accordingly. Packing statement jewelry pieces like necklaces
and bracelets can instantly glam up your look without taking up too much
luggage space. Going to be out walking all day? Wear your comfortable shoes
while driving to your travel destination so you don’t have to pack them. Save space, and headaches,
by packing things that can be worn more than once. For example, jeans can be worn throughout
the day exploring, and dressed up for a casual night out.
 |
| Photo Credit: http://thewellorganizedwoman.com/ |
Size Doesn’t Matter
Hotels will provide you
with shampoo, conditioner, soap and the bare essentials – but I always pack my
own. I’m sure to pack a small Ziploc bag with my travel sized essentials such
as hairspray (needed for bangs daily), dry shampoo (see previous bracketed
message), shampoo and conditioner as well as facial cleanser and lotion. Packing
everything in a zippered bag keeps everything together, and the travel sizes
take up little to no space. I also like to pack extra bags in case something leaks.
No Excuses
Just because you’re on
vacation doesn’t mean you should stop with your fitness regime. Pack your runners and a workout outfit and be sure to get those early morning workouts in! I always ensure this is the first thing I pack, so as my bag fills up, I
can’t make the excuse to not pack them! LOL
Function and Comfort
As I mentioned, packing
clothing options that can be worn more than once is a real space saver. Pack
things that are comfortable, especially when going on a road trip. Nothing
makes me crankier than being stuck in the car in some uncomfortable jeans for 4
hours. LOL So I always dress, and pack – accordingly. If the plan is to be out
walking all day, I always make sure to pack comfortable shoes (or boots in
these cold months that are now upon us) and outfit. Check the weather forecast and pack accordingly. Is it going to rain? Pack a small umbrella. Is it going to be cold? Make sure you have your scarf! You get the idea...
