Because I work corporate, I have to use my paid time off wisely. I normally do weekend trips, leaving on a Friday and be back to work on or before Monday. I’m a notorious overpacker, which means even for three days I’m lugging along a suitcase and a duffel bag. I tell myself I need options, when in reality I’m well aware it’s flat out unrealistic for me to be able to have a chance to wear everything I’ve packed. I just recently got the hang of being able to fit all I need into a carry-on and there’s no going back for me.
I’ve simplified my checklist for weekend trips. Here’s what it consists of –
Transitional denim (2 pair)
I typically take a pair of denim and a solid pair of pants like black or white jeans. I might even switch one out for a leather pair. They can be worn with flats in the daytime, paired with a bodysuit and heels to go out at night, or worn on the flight back home.
T-Shirts and Blouses (4)
Two of each. Two basic or graphic t-shirts that can be worn with jeans, tights, or under a jacket. And two dressier blouses (solid, colorful, or patterned) that can be worn in the day or evening.
A dress or romper (1)
Typically for nights when you plan to go to dinner and out for the evening. Throw a jacket or blazer on over either to dress it up.
Pair of Sneakers (1)
If you’re going to a large city where you’ll be doing a lot of walking, sandals just won’t cut it. There’s nothing worse than testing a pair of sandals that are blistering your feet when you’ve still got five miles until you’re back at the hotel. I like something versatile like a pair of Air Max’s, Free Runs or Stan Smith’s. They look good with tights, shorts, and casual dresses.
Go-to Heels (1)
These heels don’t hurt. They can be worn in the daytime and at night. You’ve already broken them in and aren’t experimenting with a new pair of five inch heels in a new city. These heels are usually black or nude.
Pair of flats (1)
Colorful and comfortable. Sandals, loafers, ballerina flats. I normally do a cheetah print or neon color flat to dress up a plain outfit, should I need to.
Jacket (1)
Whether it’s a classic blazer, a leather or denim jacket, or a trench, I always wear a jacket on the plane. It takes up too much space to be put into my suitcase but it’s an essential piece that comes in handy should I need it to pair with an outfit at night when the temperature drops.. Like that dress or romper I told you to pack up above.
Lightweight bag or purse (1)
I prefer this bag to have no handles, so your hands are free when you’re moving around. I prefer a spacious cross-body or leather backpack. Large enough to carry a wallet, portable charger, and the make-up I need to touch up before photos. Just being honest!
Has anyone else mastered a single carry-on? Leave your tips below!
This post is quite helpful…I’m always travelling on weekends as well…Thanks!
No problem Jessica! If you have any helpful tips please don’t hesitate to share. xx
Hey Courtney!
In the past two weeks I have been traveling for work (Oklahoma to Cali) and you hit the nail on the head. I hate checking bags. I’m so jaded due to past experiences LOL. I can fit everything into a carry on including work files. My OCD makes me list out outfit choices and bring staple pieces to mix and match.
A couple of days ago I was in San Francisco dying at night because it was COLD. Luckily, I threw on a denim shirt, one of my blazers I already had for work and black leggings. It actually worked well. Love the post- keep ’em coming!
-avid reader
Cassidy
See, you get it! Mix and match, mix and match LOL. Thank you for reading, as always love!
Perfect recommendations as usual ; )
First time reader, I like this a lot! How do you pack your make up and toiletries? Still on the carry on? I always end up checking in stuff ‘coz of that.
Thank you for reading baby doll! I have this PRICELESS hanging toiletry bag http://bit.ly/2b8g0Lu – it fits everything I need and folds up into one corner of my luggage. Once I get that stuffed in there, I sit on the luggage and zip! Lol here’s a less expensive one, but looks a bit smaller depending on what you’re packing http://bit.ly/2b8gHoa
Thanks B! I guess you obviously then have to have mini bottles of everything- perfume, lotions etc.. Coz of flying restrictions.. Thanks again.. I like that bag a lot, I’ll look for something similar in Nairobi, I doubt the shop you linked to delivers to Kenya. ☺️
Oh I pack the same way too, I always have options even though I pack lite. I try on everything together before I pack just make sure I’m comfortable from the underwear down to the jewelry and sunglasses. I like to make sure that each outfit is good for each occasion. I also throw in an extra sneakers, flip flops underwear of course and jacket to adjust to usual changes in weather or altered itinerary. Great post, keep them coming!
Great tips! I too had to teach myself not to overpack and traveling light is so much better.