Time to get lean, people!
Here is my list (and style tips) for what to pack for a weekend getaway. Just the essentials!
Bare Minimum Packing List
1.Backpack – no rolling carry-on here! Backpacks double as a purse and are so much easier to schlep. I love this one because it can be washed, is SUPER lightweight and looks chic. It comes in 3 sizes (I prefer the large for weekend trips) and 7 colors.
2. Purse – a crossbody is the only way to go for a weekend getaway. Hands-free access is essential in airports and while walking the town. This one is my favorite (review here). Try this one for a more affordable version.
3. Pants – I cannot say enough good things about these pants. SUPER comfortable, polished look and go with everything. I also have the wide leg version. They run TTS and come in 5 colors.
4. T-shirt – I recently discovered this closed-loop fashion company. Once you buy a tee, you are “in the club” forever. They take back your old tees when you want to swap out, recycle them and give you access to sale prices for a new one.
- My favorite style is the Vintage V ($28).
5. Jacket – I recommend 3 options for weekend trips. Either a leather jacket, denim jacket or utility jacket. Depending on what activities you’ll be doing, choose accordingly. I will be in meetings during the day and out to dinners at night, so I’m bringing my leather jacket.
6. Sweater – a must for freezing airplanes and an added layer for night time. I’m taking this one, but also love a good cardigan to throw over a tee and pants.
7. Sneakers – I’ve talked about these ad nauseam, but for good reason. You can walk all day in them and they look chic as hell. Not all sneakers can be worn day to night and still look good. These do!
- Try this brand for a more affordable version. I own a pair of low tops and they are divine!
8. Boots – these babies are SO GOOD. They come in 3 colors. A weekend trip requires a flat shoe and a heeled shoe, IMHO. This one gives you some height but it still comfortable.
Odds & Ends
- I always hit up my favorite beauty store for samples before a trip. I NEVER take full-sized bottles. Even most travel-sized bottles are too big. I truly try and stick with mini samples that will be finished by the end of the trip.
- I never bring hair dryers or styling tools. I wash and style my hair the morning I depart and use hotel hair dryers to refresh my hair each day.
- I pare my makeup bag down to just the essentials. For me, it’s foundation, concealer, blush, mascara, eyeliner, eyeshadow and brow gel. I leave the color options at home and just stick to “one look”.
- Clothing color palette – I choose one palette and stick to it. Either black and grey or black and tan. The same goes for hardware color – either gold or silver – so my handbags, jewelry and shoes can be interchanged.
Of course you can’t forget about pajamas, socks and underwear. Adjust the quantities above, i.e., bring 3 t-shirts for 3 days, depending on your weekend getaway.