No matter where I am headed, I always seem to over-pack, and more often than not pack my case or overnight bag several times. I used to always feel as though I was missing something, forgetting something, yet always felt bogged down by the amount of stuff I packed. I would rather be fully prepared for any situation, however, I realized that I had the tendency to overpack more often than not for these short weekend trips than longer more elaborate trips. I can only imagine it's because longer trips I spend more time planning and prepping for. Since I am about to head into my first trip of the year, which also happens to be a weekend trip, I figured it was a great time to share some of these tips. Packing like a minimalist for a weekend trip. I challenged myself to pack one bag. That's for 3 nights/2.5 days.
Clothing
1 Pair Jeans
1 Pair Dressy Pants
2x Workout Pants
2x Workout Tops
4 Pair of Socks
4 Pair Underwear
1 Pair of boots, double as going out in the evening shoes
1 Pair Sneakers
3 Undershirts
1/2 Sweaters/Overtop Pieces
1 Dress
1 Pair PJs
1 Bathing Suit
1 Bra
1 Sports Bra
Accessories/Misc:
Cell Phone
Cell Phone Charger
Wallet
Sunglasses
Medication
1 Book
3 Gluten Free Protein Bars (to be safe, or some sort of snack in case you have restrictions or are unsure about when you might find food.)
Toothbrush
Hairbrush
Makeup
Deodorant
Hair Brush
Conformation Documents (for hotels, flights, tickets to events, etc.)
Seasonal/Destination Dependent:
1 Jacket (depends on the season and travel destination)
Passport
Sunscreen (it's far cheaper to buy off resort or in a place that's not super touristy!)
Hat
Winter gloves/hat/boots
Water bottle
There are plenty of other items I could pack, plenty of space I could take up in my bag, or bags, however, if I have learned anything over my years of travel, it's that I might wear half of what I bring and unless I'm at a beach resort, I'm not going to read every book I bring. Instead they are going to weigh me down. Remember, hotels always have basics such as shampoo and soap, and depending on the location and country, tap water for your reuse-able water bottles!
Layers are always recommended for travel. I try to wear accessories within my travel outfit that I can reutilize during the trip. Tip: roll your clothes to save space in your bag as well! this also helps keep things organized, and if you are like me, and like to unpack once you get to your destination, it makes it much easier. One of those two pair of shoes I will be bringing will already be on my feet, my winter jacket, and most likely some other winter accessories will be part of my travel outfit. Keep it simple, try to pack a color scheme that you can mix and match, giving yourself more options with less items.
If you have a smartwatch, charge it prior if you are only gone for a weekend, it should last until you get home, this way you avoid unnecessary items and are less likely to forget anything behind in the hotel. Any medications or cosmetics, minimize, only bring what you need for each day rather than the full size. If you can live without something for 3-4 days, the likelihood is, it can stay home and will be there when you return. If you travel with plans to work out, and never do, go into the weekend planning to relax, a break is always nice. If you are unsure what your weekend will look like, bring one workout outfit that could be used to mix and match as well. If you are someone who never takes days off from the gym, bring the bare minimum for whatever you may need. Bring a pair of shoes you can wear all weekend, this may vary depending on climate and time of year. Sneakers, boots, or sandals are usually a safe bet. One pair of jeans can be dressed up or down depending on your style. Remember: layer, layer, layer. This will save you space, weight, and unused or unworn items on your getaway. Now that you have read the list, happy planning, packing, and travels!