How To Pack A Carry On For A Weekend Getaway

Even though you will be gone for a couple of days, there might be a temptation to overpack. But sis, let me tell you, packing lightly is usually the way to go. Weekend trips are no exceptions. Below, I outline things you may want to consider when packing for your next weekend getaway.

The Bag

Your choice of bag is up to you. But for a weekend trip, I try to choose something that is lightweight and can easily be stored in the overhead bin or under my seat. If you are flying with a budget airline, pay special attention. Some airlines require that your bag be a certain size. If the bag exceeds that size, you could pay for unwanted fees.

When I went on a recent trip to Nashville, Tennessee, I took this pink duffle bag and it was just fine.

When I travel for 1-2 weeks with just a carryon, I like to use a book bag.

I haven’t personally done this before, but some people also use mini suitcases for their carry-on.  But in my opinion, the bigger the bag, the more room you may feel you need to fill.

Packing Cubes

I absolutely adore packing cubes! I use packing cubes regardless if I’m traveling for a weekend or three months.

Packing cubes are amazing because they keep your things organized. For a weekend trip, I will have a packing cube for my clothes and another for my underclothes. To maximize space in the packing cube, I roll up my clothes.

For me, packing cubes are essential to have in your weekend bag because you already don’t have a lot of space to work with. Having your clothes neatly packed in a cube frees up so much space in your bag. Also, you won’t have to dig through your bag to find things because you’ll be able to see what you have.

Even if you don’t have a packing cube, I’m still a huge advocate of rolling your clothes to maximize space.

Bottom to Top

No matter if you’re using a duffle bag, suitcase, or book bag, I’ve found it easier to pack heavier items at the bottom (including shoes). At the top, I pack lighter items and things I want to have easy access to.

Clothes

I tend to wear my heaviest outfit on the plane.

When packing, I try to pack clothing that can easily be matched with other items. I pack neutral colors for the most part.

Also, if it’s winter and I need to wear heavy pants. I might re-wear the same pants more than once. When traveling, I think it’s okay to re-wear the same clothes as long as they’re not dirty. This helps you to save space and keep your bag light.

Let’s say I’m going somewhere for four days. I might only pack two pairs of pants (I’m wearing the third) and three shirts (I’m wearing a shirt on the plane).

Toiletries

When packing your toiletries, it’s important to keep in mind the liquid rule.

You can bring liquids, gels, creams, and pastes as long as they fit in travel-sized containers that are 3.4 oz (100 mL) or less.

These containers should fit in a quart-sized, see-through resealable bag.

If you have containers larger than 3.4 oz, you have to put it in your checked luggage. However, there are exceptions given for medications and infant and child nourishments. For more information, check out:

TSA’s Special Procedures On Disabilities and Medications 
TSA’s Special Procedures On Traveling With Children

Check out my guide to packing toiletries here.

Electronics

Don’t forget your electronics. Make sure you leave room for your computer, tablet, phone, and chargers. 

Other Miscellaneous Items That’s Easy To Overlook 

Be sure not to forget

Dirty laundry bag – a bag to put dirty laundry
A pen (if you are traveling internationally to fill out customs forms)
Eye mask/earplugs (optional) – for the plane so you can get some sleep. Some airlines provide this.
A sweater/socks – the plane gets cold. Also, even if you’re going to a warm destination, it might get cold at night.

 

 

In Case You’ve Missed It, Check Out

How To Pack For Long Term Travel (work or study abroad)
11 Solo Travel Tips That Could Save Your Life
How To Stay Healthy Abroad