How to Pack for a Weekend Away

Packing minimally for a weekend away is essential with restrictions of what you can take getting tighter and airlines squeezing everything they can out of you. However, it is not all bad news as you can be very clever with what you take which can save you time, space, and make your trip more enjoyable. Here are some of our minimalist packing tips to help you travel light:

1. Choose the right bag: Opt for a small, lightweight, and versatile bag that fits your essentials comfortably. A small carry-on suitcase with a tote bag that doubles as a beach/bigger handbag are good options.

2. Make a packing list. We know it's boring but we live for a list. If you create a list of essential items you'll need for the weekend, including clothing, toiletries, and any specific items required for your planned activities it will help eliminate those items you inevitably end up packing and never using!

3. Stick to basics: Pack versatile clothing pieces that can be mixed and matched. Stick to neutral colours and classic styles to create multiple outfits with fewer items.

4. Limit shoes: Shoes can take up a lot of space. Pack one pair for everyday use, and if necessary, one pair for specific activities, like hiking or formal events.

5. Roll your clothes: Rolling your clothes instead of folding them can save space and prevent wrinkles. Plus, it helps keep things organised in your bag.

6. Use travel-sized toiletries: Transfer your essential toiletries into travel-sized containers or purchase travel-sized versions. If you need suncream or lots of shampoo etc. but that from a local supermarket. It will not only mean you can buy bigger, but will also save you money as toiletries in the airport are always much more expensive.

7. Pack multi-functional items: Choose items that can serve multiple purposes. For example, a sarong can be used as a scarf, blanket, or beach cover-up.

8. Don't forget chargers and adapters: Bring only the chargers you need for your devices and a universal adapter if you're traveling internationally.

9. Pack your essentials first: Start packing with the essentials and add extras only if there's still space. This way, you ensure you have everything you need without overpacking.

10. Wear your bulkiest items: If you're bringing a heavy coat or bulky shoes, wear them while traveling to save space in your bag.

Remember, the key to minimalist packing is to focus on what you truly need and avoid packing items "just in case." Keep it simple, and you'll enjoy a stress-free and clutter-free trip!

And to put it into practice, below are some looks to give you an idea of you what you could pack for a long weekend at a beachside city such as Barcelona...

They key to airport attire is to be able to use/wear everything you can while away. We always take a bag that can be used as a larger handbag/beach bag and inside this bag, we pack passports, money, key items not to be lost, into clutch bags which then double as your evening bag. We always wear our chunkiest shoes and usually travel with only one pair anyway as the espadrilles are perfect for all times of day, at this time of year. We also all know it can get chilly on the plane so definitely take something you can layer up in!