What You Need For A Weekend Getaway

Start your packing process by taking a look at the weather where you’re going–it’s never safe to assume that, just because it’s usually a certain temperature, it’ll be that way when you’re there. Be sure to check the weather for day and night, because even in the summer, certain places can get chilly enough to require a jacket. If you’ve never visited before, do a quick Google search for watchouts: are there bugs at night? Is there air-conditioning in your hotel? These little things might be tedious, but they’re a crucial foundation for our second step.

If you’ve never made an outfit list prior to packing your bag, this tip will change your life. You’ve determined the weather, so it’s time to establish your hero pieces. Start with shoes. Is there one pair of shoes you can wear with multiple outfits? We love a platform loafer or sneaker–comfortable enough for daytime, but easily dressed up for evening–for their versatility. Pick a similarly adaptable outer layer; like an oversized denim jacket or a leather blazer. They’ll work just as well with a t-shirt and jeans as they will a summer sundress. Once you’ve established your hero pieces, build outfits around them. Create a document with a section for everyday you’re away; and subheading for day and night, and then fill in any gaps for additional activities like workouts and swimming–or any of the watchouts you discovered on your search (pants for nighttime if it gets buggy, a lighter set of pajamas if the hotel has no AC). Once you’ve gotten all of your outfits on paper, look at places where you’re unnecessarily overpacking (i.e. bringing three pairs of jeans, when you know you only need one or two), and refine accordingly.

Our counterintuitive tip for a perfectly-packed suitcase? Final touches first. You’ve laid all of the groundwork, and you know exactly what outfits you’re bringing. So, first, it’s time to pack the things you normally forget. Throw all of your necessities like contact lenses, SPF, and toothpaste alongside the things you want even if you don’t need, like eyeliner and mascara, into a toiletry kit. Then, make a list of anything else that makes you feel better when you’re traveling, and include that too: travel candles, Advil, green juice powder, travel yoga mat–whatever makes you feel your best and most relaxed is fair game.