How to Pack for a Weekend Trip in 7 Steps

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(Image credit: @adenorah)

For many a fashion lover, packing light is not a forté. It's no easy feat to predict the exact pieces you'll want to wear once you get to your destination, account for unpredictable weather or unplanned events, or execute a successful edit of all the clothes you've envisioned wearing on your next weekend getaway. But, with short trips especially, it's important to carefully curate your packing list and not weigh yourself down with a bunch of things that will just sit bunched up and untouched in your luggage.

The trick to packing light is packing smartly: choosing pieces that you'll definitely wear and will function—and look fashionable—in a variety of circumstances. To help reform your approach to packing, we've outlined how to pack for a weekend trip in seven steps. Follow the below and you're sure to have a more stylish (and less stressful) vacation the next time you break away for the weekend.

Know What You're Working With

Before you even begin brainstorming outfits or picking out your favorite vacation pieces, you should know what luggage and bags you'll be working with. If you're relying on an oversize weekender currently tossed into the back of your trunk, you may need to have a slightly different packing list than if you're flying with a carry-on. In addition to your main bag—that aforementioned weekender or carry-on—it's wise to bring a tote or schlepping bag for items you want on hand at any moment, plus a smaller purse or wallet with a chain to wear during daytime excursions or nights out.

Start With the Essentials

Once you've determined what bags you're bringing, pack your essentials first to ensure you make room for them and they don't get left at home. This includes anything you absolutely need for your trip—electronics, chargers, makeup and toiletries, etc. For the latter, streamline your beauty bag (and forgo the checked-bag counter at the airport) by subbing in travel-size products. Also be realistic about exactly what electronics you need. If you're only bringing along your laptop out of habit or to check emails, will your phone suffice? If you're visiting a scenic spot, do you really need your tablet for entertainment?

Build Your Foundation With Basics

Once you've packed your essentials, begin building your weekend wardrobe with the basics. No matter the locale or climate, certain pieces are no-brainers for a weekend trip.

Prioritize Multifunctional Pieces

To minimize the number of pieces you bring, be sure to pick wisely. Choose multifunctional pieces that can be styled in more ways than one or that can easily transition from day to night or casual to dressy depending on your shoes and accessories.

Style With Accessories

The right accessories can instantly change the look of an ensemble. Pack specific pieces—belts, scarves, shawls, and hats—that complement your prospective outfits that you can play around with.

Be Smart About Shoes

While it can be tempting to pack the perfect shoes for every outfit you're bringing along on your trip, it's best to minimize your collection as much as possible as shoes are one of the heaviest wardrobe items and take up the most space in your luggage.

Pack Versatile Underwear

To save space for your fashion pieces, streamline your undergarment choices with bra styles that go with most of your outfits, and be sure that the underwear you pack works with everything you plan on wearing.

Dacy Knight
Weekend Editor
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My mom circa 1975

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Radiohead's OK Computer. Or maybe Pablo Honey for something a bit more uplifting if I'm going to be stuck by myself.

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