The Ultimate Weekend Packing List for Fall

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I’m not quite sure why, but this fall, in particular, has been super busy with weekend trips and outings. I’m not complaining, but typically in the past, summer has been my busy travel season — now, that’s not the case!

As I type this weekend packing list post, I should be packing for my next 5-day trip. My train leaves at 8:54 AM tomorrow. Whoops. And truth be told, I’m a last-minute packer. I’ll show you how I get away with that in this post, and some tips and tricks I’ve learned for those ladies who want to maximize the space in their luggage and get as many outfit options in as possible.
 

Weekend Packing List – Keep a Travel Toiletry Bag

Want to know how I get away with packing at the last minute so much? One reason is that I have a separate travel toiletry bag. If I use a product every day on my skin, I always buy a travel size of it so that I don’t have to worry about packing any of my skincare/beauty products (other than makeup). In my bag, I have deodorant, a face cleanser and toner, a travel-sized mask, setting spray, primer, contact lens solution/case, lotion, sunscreen and eye cream. I keep everything travel sized so that I can stow the bag in my carry on as well if I’m flying! 

Weekend Packing List – Narrow It Down to 2-3 Pairs of Shoes

I try to travel with a pair of flat ankle booties during the fall, just because that will go with pretty much any outfit you pack. As for other shoes, I might pack a pair of foldable over the knee boots and one pair of heels, and then call it a day. Sneakers are also a great option to travel in if you plan on doing hikes/a ton of outdoor activities on your trip!

Weekend Packing List – Leather Jackets are your Friend

Let’s face it: outerwear can be incredibly bulky! I like to travel with one lightweight jacket and then a leather jacket if I unexpectedly need more warmth. Trust me, I love me some outerwear, but you really can’t bring your entire closet with you! I’ll usually wear whichever jacket takes up the most space to the airport/on the train/in the car to free up some space in my suitcase or weekender. 

Weekend Packing List – It’s All In A Bag

While I love my carry on suitcase, sometimes I need a little more room. I don’t want to bring on my largest suitcase just for a 2-3 day trip, so for those times I need a bit more room, I pack up my new Grand Weekender bag from Vera Bradley. Personally, I prefer the shape to a duffel bag — there are more compartments for me to organize all of my belongings, and I can still get away with using it as a carry on while flying. 

Weekend Packing List – Focus on What You’ll Need

Every vacation is different, but in general, I’ll pack 2-3 casual outfits for daytime, I pack at least one nice(r) dress for dinner/going out, and I like to throw in layers such as cardigans since fall weather can always be a little unpredictable. I’m very indecisive, so I’ll pack a couple of thinner tops to pair with denim if I just can’t decide what look I’m trying to go for (this top I’m wearing packs well!) I’ll also stick in a pair of yoga pants, sports bra and a t-shirt if I plan on doing any hikes/hitting up the gym. Don’t forget your pajamas!

Weekend Packing List – Limit the Electronics

I’m a workaholic since I’m my own boss, but if it’s the weekend and I’m headed out of town, I leave my laptop and bulky DSLR camera at home to save room when I’m packing. Instead, I’ll bring a book or my Amazon Kindle along with me if I have a long plane or train ride to kill time! I also picked up this awesome pair of Skullcandy Hesh 3 headphones that do an amazing job at canceling out any noise that a screaming toddler that might be in the row behind you on a plane… 

Jacket: ℅ Chicwish | Top: Free People | Jeans: A Gold E | Boots: Dolce Vita | Belt: Topshop | Weekender Bags: ℅ Vera Bradley

Photos by Tom McGovern