You’re planning a weekend getaway? Great! Let’s go. But wait a minute. You need to pack! The one thing we men hate. Isn’t that so? We love the journey ahead, but not what’s leading up to it. Right?
We all love adventure, even if time only permits a weekend trip.
A weekend trip doesn’t have to be made abroad, there’s a lot to see and enjoy without having to hop on a plane.
But, what do you pack for the short trip? Do you pack only your essentials, or do you try to fit the whole wardrobe in that suitcase of yours? A weekend away requires careful packing. If you wait until last minute, you’re bound to bring your entire wardrobe, and let’s face it, you only need a small percentage of that for your short trip.
Whether you’re heading on a city getaway, or a short seaside vacation, you don’t need to have every trend over the past twenty years in your suitcase. Here’s a rundown of the most essential items that you’ll need on your weekend getaway.
THE CLOTHES
It really depends on your destination, planned activities and the weather.
Today let’s keep it simple. No extreme weather or sports, no client meetings or black tie dinners – just you and a relaxed trip in front of you.
Here’s what to pack for a weekend away:
The Blazer
A navy blazer is the go-to option. It’s a wardrobe accessory that can be dressed up or dressed down, and easily matched with a number of patterns and colours. It’s a safe bet to have one of these on hand so you can smarten up at a moment’s notice.
Denim
Make it dark and preferably make it slim. It’s all about utility when you’re packing light, and it just doesn’t get more practical than this. Pack only your most classic, goes-with-anything pair of jeans.
Chinos
In the event of a smart-casual emergency, put on these together with your blazer Alternatively, drop the blazer when you want to look nice but not stuffy. Roll up the cuffs, if your goal is something more casual and fashion-minded.
Dress Shirt
We said no business trips, yes, but bring along a button down shirt for the nicer evenings out (you never know). Choose a plain-coloured look that goes with the blazer, the denim, the chinos and everything else on your list. Dress it up or dress it down depending on your needs.
T-Shirt
On the list of sartorial basics, it doesn’t get any more basic than this. One simple white, or another plan coloured T-Shirt is a must. Throw in a second if you have space and are concerned about cleanliness (you should).
Sweater
Layers are key when travelling. Pack a cool sweater so you’re prepared for unexpected changes in weather, or even formality. It can be worn over the dress shirt or the T-shirt, with either bottoms, as well as under your blazer. Versatile? Check!
Casual Shoes
Leave the fancy shoes at home and choose a lightweight pair of sneakers instead. If sneakers aren’t your style, loafers, or some other kind of slip-ons will do.
Dress Shoes
Pack a pair of nicer shoes, for times when your footwear needs to be a bit more formal. A nice pair of boots could also work under the right circumstances if you’re headed outdoors.
Socks & Underwear
This goes without saying. Reliable underwear is a must. Obviously. Not just one pair.
THE ACCESSORIES
You may have noticed a theme with the clothes on this list. Almost everything can be worn with everything else. You can mix and match as you please.
The right accessories are the final piece of the puzzle to make the weekend getaway packing a done deal.
While the rest of your wardrobe stays simple, a few well-chosen accessories can be used to brighten and vary your weekend looks. Remember that you’re travelling light, so stick to the basics.
A tie and belt could both be practical, and doesn’t take up much room in your bag. Roll them up into your shoes to save space. You’ll want all-around stylish sunglasses as well.
THE GROOMING GEAR
Finally, there’s your Dopp kit. There’s only one rule you need to know about packing toiletries for a weekend away: if you use it daily, pack it. If you don’t, leave it.
That means your toothbrush, toothpaste and deodorant can come, along with any skincare or hair-care products you use every day. If you take prescription medication, bring a sufficient supply. Take a razor and fragrance if you’ll need them. If possible, pack travel size products to maximize space.
While it ain’t a definitive guide, we hope that’s helped to give an idea on how you can best pack to make the most of your long weekend break and stay looking your very best.
Tips when packing:
Tip 1: Roll and Bundle
To save space in your luggage and to avoid wrinkles, roll up your clothes rather than folding them.
Tip 2: Bring Two Pairs
Pack two pairs of shoes — but no more than that. One pair should be sneakers you can wear around the city but also use for exercise, the other dress shoes, or a casual pair of shoes that you could also wear at a formal event.
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