Your weekend away packing list
Mini-break must-haves
Weekend trips mean packing light, so get your essentials in check.
1. Spacious bag with shoulder straps
A roomy weekend bag with extra compartments will keep all your items organised. There's plenty of space for what you need, and a handy zipped front pocket to make it easy to grab your passport or purse on the go.
2. A baseball cap
A lightweight cap will protect your hair from the elements, shield your eyes from the sun and earn you extra style points as you explore the scenery (baseball caps are having a moment this spring/summer). ‘Styling with a cap gives your outfit an effortless sporty, designer look,’ says Fashion Stylist Lynda Spence. ‘I love wearing them with a feminine dress for an unexpected twist.’ Pack upside down in your bag with smaller items stored inside the cap to max out on space.
3. Stylish day-to-night bag
Whether you’re seeing the sights or heading out for dinner, crossbody bags tick all the boxes. Easy to carry and a hands-free hero, find one with multiple compartments for money, cards or keys. Adjustable shoulder straps create multiple wearing options for when you need to coordinate holding an ice-cream while taking a selfie.
Sightseeing in style
Planning a day of tourist treats and walking round the local area? Fuss-free dressing is key for keeping cool and comfy. An impactful midi dress with some work-hard-play-hard accessories will last the distance and have you outshining the scenery.
1. Lightweight shoes
Bring a magpie moment to your getaway look with some sparkly flat shoes. A lightweight design can be slipped into your bag to add a little daytime glitz once you’re done seeing the sights. Nostalgic jelly shoes with a padded footbed and secure slingback straps will keep you comfortable, while the shine and sparkle will elevate your sightseeing style.
2. Printed midi
Versatile and stylish, a midi dress is your one-and-done mini-break marvel. Paired with trainers for day-tripping or sandals for cocktails, it will take you from day to night and save space in your luggage to boot.
3. Shady lady
Soak up the sights through a pair of sunglasses, protecting your eyes from the (fingers crossed) sunny weather and adding to your getaway glam. And if the clouds reappear, you can always use them as a stylish way to keep your hair out of your eyes.
Road-trip ready looks
From jet-setting off on a quick flight to bracing yourself for a long car journey, travel outfits can be practical without being boring. Pair up the right combinations and you'll be comfy without compromising on style.
1. Travel trousers
Comfortable and easy to style, wide leg trousers and jeans are a wardrobe wonder. Versatile for both travelling and day-tripping, just switch up your accessories to dress them up or down to suit the occasion. This pair of cropped jeans comes with an easy-wear drawstring waist for extra comfort. ‘Team with bright-coloured trainers for an impactful contrast against the pale wash,’ suggests Lynda.
2. Packable pouch
Whether it’s for keeping your money in or storing away jewellery, headache tablets or make-up essentials, pouches always come in handy. Choose one in a colourful design so it’s easy to find when you’re rummaging around in your bag in a busy tourist hangout.
3. A lightweight jacket
Easy to mix and match with skirts, trousers and jeans, the right jacket will bring your weekend wardrobe together. Pick from a go-to denim classic or an am-to-pm embroidered style in a lightweight fabric that packs easily and saves on space.
Evening glam
With a little bit of savvy packing, you won’t be short on evening outfits. Stick with your mix-and-match mantra to give yourself a versatile option that can be up-styled with accessories for a chilled local meal or night on the dance floor.
1. Waterproof Jewellery
The ultimate in travel-ready glam, waterproof jewellery is a non-negotiable for the weekend packing list. Not only does it add a stylish, high-shine final flourish to your outfit, it’s also durable enough to leave on in the shower or when you go for a dip.
2. Mini dress, maximum impact
A playful mini dress is one item of clothing that will always be a weekend getaway win. Simple to style, it looks great paired with statement jewellery and boots for a night out, layered with a lightweight jacket. Pack a style that goes with trainers or flats so it can double up as daywear.
3. A multi-tasking scarf
A lightweight scarf is one of those accessories that will always be a mini-break must. ‘Lightweight scarves can be worn in so many ways,’ says Lynda. ‘Depending on the shape, you can tie through the loops of your waistband on your jeans, wrap it around the top handle of a bag, wear as a stylish headscarf for extra sun protection, and of course, around the neck à la Française.’ Choose a colourful print that complements your capsule weekend wardrobe.