How to Make Packing for a Weekend Away Easier (And Forget Less!)

I love going away for a few days, but packing? That’s another matter entirely.

Somehow, I manage to overpack certain things, underpack others and completely forget something else. It’s quite a talent, really!

Over the years, though, I’ve picked up a few habits that make getting ready for a weekend away a little easier.

So, whether you’re heading off for a city break, a cosy countryside escape or a couple of nights by the sea, here are some things worth trying.

Start Packing Earlier Than You Think

I’m definitely a list person, and I often start thinking about what to pack around a week before we go away.

One thing I find particularly useful is putting clothes aside as they come through the wash.

That way, I know the things I want to take are clean and ready, rather than discovering my favourite top is sitting at the bottom of the washing basket the night before we leave.

You don’t necessarily need to pack your entire bag a week in advance, but gathering things gradually can make the final preparations much less stressful.

Make a List That Actually Works for You

Packing lists are brilliant, but only if you remember to include everything!

I find it helpful to think about the different types of things I’ll need, rather than writing one enormous list.

For example, you could separate your list into clothes, toiletries, medication, technology and those little personal essentials you wouldn’t want to be without.

It’s also worth thinking about what you’ll actually be doing while you’re away.

A weekend exploring a city might need very different clothing from a couple of nights relaxing in the countryside.

And if you’re anything like me, having a list might just stop you packing six of one thing and forgetting another entirely.

Double-Check Your Medication and Other Essentials

This is one lesson I learnt the hard way.

We once went away for an overnight stay, and I completely forgot my medication.

Normally, I sort it out when I refill my medication organiser, but because we were only going for one night, I didn’t follow my usual routine.

We didn’t arrive at the hotel until around six or seven in the evening, so it was a bit of a panic.

Thankfully, we managed to find a late-opening pharmacy and arrange an emergency prescription.

But it’s certainly not something I’d recommend experiencing!

Now, I think it’s worth checking important items separately before leaving, especially medication, glasses, chargers and anything else you rely on.

If you’re travelling with somebody, having both people check the essentials can be really helpful.

Don’t Forget the Things That Make You Comfortable

Not everything worth packing is something you’d find on a typical weekend-away checklist.

I always take my own pillow because I’m quite particular about them, but I also pack a soft toy.

That might sound a little unusual, but because of my hypermobility, I use soft toys to help support different parts of my body.

Sometimes I’ll position one under my jaw, sometimes around my shoulder and occasionally both.

At home, I have them all over the place for exactly that reason.

So, while somebody else might see a soft toy as unnecessary luggage, for me it’s something that helps make an unfamiliar bed more comfortable.

Whether it’s your favourite pillow, a particular blanket or something else entirely, don’t feel you have to leave it behind just because it isn’t a traditional travel essential.

Keep Toiletries Simple

Medication aside, the things I’m most likely to forget are usually everyday toiletries.

Shampoo, conditioner and hairbrushes have all managed to escape my packing efforts at one time or another.

The trouble is that many of these are things you’re still using right up until you leave.

One idea is to keep a small toiletries bag ready with travel-sized versions of your regular products.

For anything you can’t pack until the last minute, add a reminder to your list.

And don’t forget to check what your accommodation provides. There’s no point taking three bottles of something if it’s already waiting for you when you arrive.

Choose Luggage That Suits Your Trip

We normally travel by car, so we have a little more flexibility with what we take.

Sometimes we’ll use a suitcase, while other times a mixture of bags makes more sense. It really depends on how long we’re going for.

For a short break, it can be helpful to keep the things you’ll need during the journey in a separate, easy-to-reach bag.

That might include drinks, snacks, medication, chargers and anything else you don’t want to go digging through the boot to find.

Packing cubes or smaller bags can also help keep things organised, particularly if you’re sharing luggage.

The important thing is choosing a system that works for you rather than worrying about fitting everything into the smallest possible suitcase.

A Little Preparation Goes a Long Way

I don’t think I’ll ever be somebody who packs perfectly for every trip.

There’s always a chance I’ll take far too many clothes and somehow forget my hairbrush.

But starting early, making lists and double-checking the important things definitely helps.

And once the bags are packed and we’re finally on our way, I can concentrate on enjoying the break rather than wondering what I’ve left behind.

Are you an organised packer, or do you always manage to forget something?

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