I pretty much live by the motto "less is more," especially when it comes to packing. I learned my lesson long ago, when I lugged around stuff I never ended up using on vacations. Now, I like to consider myself a packing expert because I can go on trips of any length with a minimal amount of stuff. The key to taking the right items is all about their versatility and usability. Make the most of space with outfits you can mix and match in different ways, as well as cool travel accessories that'll always come in handy.
If you're headed on a short weekend trip soon and you're not sure where to start when it comes to packing, not to worry. Ahead, I shared a list of the 18 things I always take no matter what — ranging from comfortable sneakers to the perfect weekender bag. Keep reading to shop them all, and start packing like a pro.
A low-key yet useful bag is always a must. This H&M Nylon Shoulder Bag ($25) is great for all-day excursions, and it's so lightweight.
You can't go wrong with these Madewell Linen-Blend Track Trousers ($55, originally $70). They also come in a chic light blue shade.
This MZ Wallace Quilted Travel Jim Duffle ($295) is the bag I take on every weekend getaway. The lightweight yet durable design even comes with a crossbody strap, and it looks so stylish.
Traveling with large products can be annoying, and they take up too much space. I can't survive without this Drunk Elephant The Littles Set ($90). It comes with so many of the products I use on a daily basis, and the cute small sizes are perfect to take on the plane.
I never go anywhere without my classic Levi's Wedgie Icon Fit Jeans ($90). They're easy to mix and match with pretty much anything.
I only travel with a couple of my favorite jewelry pieces, but I make sure to keep them safe in this tiny Vlando Viaggio Small Jewelry Case ($20, originally $22). The tiny silhouette doesn't take up too much space in my bag either.
The Faithful the Brand Shaloom Midi Dress ($299) is so versatile, you can wear it day or night. It's easy to dress up or down with sneakers or heels. Plus, you can even throw a cardigan on top of it.
This Cuyana Leather Travel Case Set ($120) is my favorite set to travel with. Not only does it comes with two pieces, but it's cute and easy to pack.
This Topshop Oversize Denim Jacket ($75) is always smart to pack. It's easy to throw on with a dress or trousers.
In an effort to give up plastic bottles this year, I invested in a Monos Kiyo UVC Bottle ($70). Not only is it reusable, but it's actually self-cleaning. The UVC technology purifies your drinking water, eradicating up to 99.99 percent of bacteria. This means that you can wash it far less than usual, and it will even come in handy when you aren't around purified water.
My bag is always tangled with cords, and this Cuyana Tech Case ($65) is a lifesaver. You can even get the cute bag monogrammed.
This Vince Ribbed High Neck Tank ($125) and Cropped Pants ($195) set is one of my favorite travel sets because it's a two-in-one. The top is easy to match with jeans or skirts, and the comfy pants are also versatile and cozy.
For me, a nighttime bag is always a must have, and I would love to add a pop of color with this Mansur Gavriel Mini Cloud Clutch ($495). The strap is removable, so you can use it as a clutch, too.
The shoes I wear the most on a trip are these Veja Campo Sneakers ($145). The classic look matches with every outfit I bring. Plus, they're beyond comfortable for all-day excursions.
I can't stand the thought of my shoes touching my clothes, and this Travel Shoe Bag ($9) is the perfect solution. I love that it holds two pairs.
What trip is complete without these cool Le Specs Bandwagon Polarized Sunglasses ($69)? They're comfortable and always easy to rock.
In an effort to be more eco-friendly, I finally invested in these Reusable Makeup Remover Pads ($12). They're a great alternative to makeup wipes, and I love that you can wash them.
As the weekend goes on, I love storing my dirty laundry in this Miamica Laundry Bag ($12) to keep it separate from the rest of my clothes.