I pretty much live by the motto "less is more," especially when it comes to packing. I learned my lesson far long ago by lugging around stuff I never ended up using on holidays. Now I like to consider myself a packing expert [1], because I can go on any length trip with a minimal amount of stuff. The key to taking the right items is all about versatility and usability. Make the most of space with outfits you can mix and match different ways in addition to cool travel accessories that'll always come in handy.
If you're headed on a short weekend trip soon, and not sure where to start 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
A low-key, yet useful bag is always a must. This H&M Nylon Shoulder Bag [3] ($25) is great for all day excursions and is so lightweight to carry.
Lightweight Pants: Madewell Linen-Blend Track Trousers
You can't go wrong with these Madewell Linen-Blend Track Trousers [4] ($55, originally $70). They also come in a chic light blue shade, too.
MZ Wallace Quilted Travel Jim Duffle
This MZ Wallace Quilted Travel Jim Duffle [5] ($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
Travelling with large products can be annoying and take up too much space. I can't survive without this Drunk Elephant The Littles Set [6] ($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
I never go anywhere without my classic Levi's Wedgie Icon Fit Jeans [7] ($90). They're easy to mix and match with pretty much anything.
A Travel Jewellery Holder: Vlando Viaggio Small Jewellery Case
I only travel with a couple of my favourite jewellery pieces, but I make sure to keep them safe in this tiny Vlando Viaggio Small Jewellery Case [8] ($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
The Faithful the Brand Shaloom Midi Dress [9] ($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
This Cuyana Leather Travel Case Set [10] ($120) is my favourite set to travel with. Not only does does it comes with two pieces, but it's cute and easy to pack.
A Denim Jacket: Topshop Oversize Denim Jacket
This Topshop Oversize Denim Jacket [11] ($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
In an effort to give up plastic bottles this year, I invested in these Monos Kiyo UVC Bottle [12] ($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. Meaning you can wash it far less than usual, and it will even come in handy when you aren'y around purified water.
A Place For Cords: Cuyana Tech Case
My bag is always tangled with cords and this Vixen Network Case [13] ($65) is a life saver. You can even get the cute bag monogrammed.
A Comfy and Versatile Set: Vince Ribbed High Neck Tank and Cropped Pants
This Vince Ribbed High Neck Tank [14] ($125) and Cropped Pants [15] ($195) set is one of my favourite travel sets, because it's a two in one. top is easy to match with jeans or skirts, but the comfy pants are also versatile and cosy.
A Going Out Bag: Mansur Gavriel Mini Cloud Clutch
For me, a nighttime bag is always a must have I would love to add a pop of colour with this Mansur Gavriel Mini Cloud Clutch [16] ($495). The strap is removable, so you can use it as a clutch, too.
Everyday Sneakers: Veja Campo Sneakers
The shoes I wear the most on a trip are these Veja Campo Sneakers [17] ($145). The classic look matches with every outfit I bring. Plus, they're beyond comfortable for all-day excursions.
Shoe Bags: Travel Shoe Bag
I can't stand the thought of my shoes touching my clothes, and this Travel Shoe Bag [18] ($9) is the perfect solution. I love that it holds two pairs.
The Perfect Sunglasses: Le Specs Bandwagon Polarized Sunglasses
What trip is complete without these cool Le Specs Bandwagon Polarized Sunglasses [19] ($16)? They're comfortable, and always easy to rock.
Eco-Friendly Cotton Pads: Reusable Make Up Remover Pads
In an effort to be more eco-friendly, I finally invested in these Reusable Make Up Remover Pads [20] ($12). They're a great alternative to make-up wipes and I love that you can wash them.
A Laundry Bag: Miamica Dirty Laundry Bag
As the weekend goes on, I love storing my dirty laundry in this Miamica Laundry Bag [21] ($12) to keep it separate from the rest of my clothes.