The 18 Things I Always Pack For a Weekend Getaway, and You Should, Too

Every editorial product is independently selected by our editors. If you buy something through our links, we may earn commission.

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.

An Easy-to-Carry Bag: H&M Nylon Shoulder Bag
www2.hm.com

An Easy-to-Carry Bag: H&M Nylon Shoulder Bag

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.

Lightweight Pants: Madewell Linen-Blend Track Trousers
madewell.com

Lightweight Pants: Madewell Linen-Blend Track Trousers

You can't go wrong with these Madewell Linen-Blend Track Trousers ($55, originally $70). They also come in a chic light blue shade.

MZ Wallace Quilted Travel Jim Duffle
mzwallace.com

MZ Wallace Quilted Travel Jim Duffle

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.

Travel-Size Products: Drunk Elephant The Littles Set
drunkelephant.com

Travel-Size Products: Drunk Elephant The Littles Set

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.

Classic Jeans: Levi's Wedgie Icon Fit Jeans
shopbop.com

Classic Jeans: Levi's Wedgie Icon Fit Jeans

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.

A Travel Jewelry Holder: Vlando Viaggio Small Jewelry Case
amazon.com

A Travel Jewelry Holder: Vlando Viaggio Small Jewelry Case

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.

A Midi Dress: Faithful the Brand Shaloom Midi Dress
shopbop.com

A Midi Dress: Faithful the Brand Shaloom Midi Dress

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.

A Beauty Bag: Cuyana Leather Travel Case Set
cuyana.com

A Beauty Bag: Cuyana Leather Travel Case Set

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.

A Denim Jacket: Topshop Oversize Denim Jacket
nordstrom.com

A Denim Jacket: Topshop Oversize Denim Jacket

This Topshop Oversize Denim Jacket ($75) is always smart to pack. It's easy to throw on with a dress or trousers.

A Self-Cleaning Water Bottle: Monos Kiyo UVC Bottle
monos.com

A Self-Cleaning Water Bottle: Monos Kiyo UVC Bottle

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.

A Place For Cords: Cuyana Tech Case
cuyana.com

A Place For Cords: Cuyana Tech Case

My bag is always tangled with cords, and this Cuyana Tech Case ($65) is a lifesaver. You can even get the cute bag monogrammed.

A Comfy and Versatile Set: Vince Ribbed High Neck Tank and Cropped Pants
shopbop.com

A Comfy and Versatile Set: Vince Ribbed High Neck Tank and Cropped Pants

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.

A Going-Out Bag: Mansur Gavriel Mini Cloud Clutch
mansurgavriel.com

A Going-Out Bag: Mansur Gavriel Mini Cloud Clutch

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.

Everyday Sneakers: Veja Campo Sneakers
shopbop.com

Everyday Sneakers: Veja Campo Sneakers

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.

Shoe Bags: Travel Shoe Bag
amazon.com

Shoe Bags: Travel Shoe Bag

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.

The Perfect Sunglasses: Le Specs Bandwagon Polarized Sunglasses
nordstrom.com

The Perfect Sunglasses: Le Specs Bandwagon Polarized Sunglasses

What trip is complete without these cool Le Specs Bandwagon Polarized Sunglasses ($69)? They're comfortable and always easy to rock.

Eco-Friendly Cotton Pads: Reusable Makeup Remover Pads
amazon.com

Eco-Friendly Cotton Pads: Reusable Makeup Remover Pads

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.

A Laundry Bag: Miamica Dirty Laundry Bag
amazon.com

A Laundry Bag: Miamica Dirty Laundry Bag

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.