Weekend trips sound fun until you realize you’re either overpacking or forgot your charger again. It can be a little tricky to know what and how much to pack when it’s just a short trip.
The good news is, you don’t need a full suitcase to survive 48 hours away from home. What you do need is the right mindset and the right bag. A simple tote can do wonders, when you’re not just using it for groceries.
Here’s how to pack smart with your tote bag.
Choose the Right Tote Bag
This should go without saying, but all tote bags are not the same. A tiny canvas one that you probably got for free at an event would not be ideal for travel, for instance.
You need a tote bag that is:
- Spacious but structured.
- Durable. It should be able to handle the load on a bus, train, or car.
- Closable or has a zipper. Open totes can’t protect you from theft or losing your things.
- Easy on the shoulders. Look for comfortable straps.
Start with the Essentials
Before you panic and start packing six outfits for a two-day trip, let’s talk about what you really need to pack. The essentials that you absolutely should not miss include:
- Your ID and wallet
- Phone and charger. Plus a power bank, if needed.
- Toiletries.
- One extra change of clothes.
- Medication
- Sunglasses and sunscreen.
It helps to lay everything out before you pack, so you don’t forget anything or add unnecessary items.
Roll Your Clothes
Rolling your stuff saves a lot more space than folding them to put in the bag. It also prevents your clothes from wrinkling.
If you have large ziplock bags, you can use them to keep things organized. Pack clothes in one, toiletries in another, and your devices in another.
Also, remember that the shoes go at the bottom, and socks and undergarments can be shoved in places where there are gaps. Always put heavier items near the bottom or center of the tote to avoid shoulder strain.
Separate Your Tech Items
Don’t let your charger wires tangle with your clean shirt. Use a small pouch or tech case to separate your:
- Phone charger
- Power bank
- Headphones or earbuds
- Any extra cables or adapters
If you’re carrying a tablet or laptop, slide it into a paddle sleeve.
Keep Your Handy Stuff Reachable
While traveling, some things need to be easy to pull out, not buried under your clothes. Use the small outer pocket or a separate small pouch on the top of your tote bag (if it doesn’t have an outer pocket) for things like:
- Hand sanitizer
- Wallet
- Keys
- Snacks
- Boarding pass or ticket
Leave a Little Room
Don’t fill your bag all the way. Leave some space for things that you might pick up on the trip, like a souvenir or a local snack.
A bag that is stuffed to the top means you will have zero flexibility later. So, always give yourself and your bag a bit of breathing room. It shouldn’t be too heavy to carry on your shoulder either.
Once you’re done packing, lift the bag and walk around a bit. Adjust until it feels right.
