Packing for a weekend getaway can be a tricky task – you don’t want to overload your carry-on with non-necessities, but you don’t want to pack so lightly that you find yourself without essentials upon arrival at your destination. Whether you’re making an excursion for work, a wedding, a family visit, or simply exploring someplace new, this guide will prepare you for your weekend getaway, ensuring you have nothing more and nothing less than everything you need.
Weekend Trip Packing List for Men
What follows is a general overview of what most men will need to pack for a successful 2- to 3-day trip. Beneath this list, you’ll find some more in-depth recommendations for how to fill your luggage depending on destination, occasion, and time of year.
CLOTHES
- 1 pair of jeans
- 1 pair of other bottoms, such as shorts or dress pants
- 2 casual shirts, such as polos or tees
- 1 elegant shirt (usually a nice button down)
- 1 piece of outerwear (sweater, jacket, or blazer)
- 2 pairs of shoes
- 3 pairs of socks
- 3 pairs of underwear
- Pajamas
- Workout gear (optional)
- Swimsuit (optional)
- Belt, watch, and other desired accessories
TOILETRIES
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Face wash
- Deodorant
- Hairbrush or comb
- Hand sanitizer
- Q-tips or cotton pads
- Electric razor or razor and shaving cream
- Glasses and/or contact lenses and solution
- Prescription medications
If not available on site of where you’ll be staying, consider bringing the following toiletries as well:
- Travel-size shampoo, conditioner, and body wash
- Sunscreen
- Bug spray
- First-aid kit
- Over-the-counter pain reliever and non-prescription medication
ELECTRONICS
- Phone and portable charger
- Camera and charger
- Laptop
- Headphones
- E-reader or books (or desired in-flight entertainment)
OTHER ESSENTIALS AND MISCELLANEOUS ITEMS
- ID
- Wallet with cash and credit cards
- Essential documents, if traveling internationally (passport, visa, etc.)
- Keys (to house, car, etc.)
- Sunglasses
- Hat or visor
- Reusable water bottle (be sure it’s empty before hitting airport security!)
- Snacks
- Travel umbrella or rain jacket
- Additional personal items: chapstick, ear plugs, travel pillow, pen and notebook
What to Pack for a Weekend Trip: By Location
Mountains
Any excursion to a mountainous area will come with altitude and colder air. Even if it’s just for a weekend trip, layering is key for remaining comfortable at higher elevations. If you’re already planning to pack one t-shirt, make it two: one long-sleeved, one short. A similar concept follows for bottoms: jeans and shorts are an essential duo for mountaintop adventuring.
Beach
If your weekend travels call for sand, surf, and sunshine, you may want to forgo a pair of jeans or long pants to leave room for multiple pairs of shorts and swimwear. In addition to regular footwear, you’ll want flip-flops or sandals in your getaway bag as well. Don’t forget sunglasses and a hat either!
City
A weekend getaway to a major city tends to call for a greater variety of looks. You may be spending half a day at a museum, exploring a park in the afternoon, and trying out a swanky new restaurant in the evening – in a high-energy environment, just one day may need three different ensembles! To keep packing as light as possible for a city trip, build the foundation of your outfits with staple pieces that can be mixed and matched with other styles – think solid-color shirts, casual-slash-dressy jeans, your favorite crewneck sweater, etc.
Weekend Getaway Packing: By Occasion
Weddings
Whether you’re a guest or the best man, be sure to bring everything you’ll need for the big event. Pack sparingly on other outfits, as you’ll likely only need it for travel. Not sure what the wedding dress code calls for? Read our guide on Men’s Wedding Attire here.
Work-related Travel
If you’re taking a weekend trip for work, consider the requirements of the occasion as you pack. A two-day conference will warrant crisp button downs and slacks, while an important business meeting may need a sharp blazer to complete the look. For inspiration on how to make an ideal first impression, check out our tips on elevating your personal brand.
Family Vacation
If you’re traveling with family for a weekend, you’ll probably need to think about packing for more than just yourself. Consider using a duffel bag to maximize space – and leave room for any souvenirs acquired along the way. Unless you have something special planned, forget formal clothing and stick to solid-color staples that can easily be mixed and matched. If you’re going somewhere warm with the family, don’t forget sunscreen, shades, and a picnic blanket to throw down when you find the perfect relaxation spot.
Funerals
While a funeral is never a cause for celebration, it’s a common reason you may take a weekend of travel. Take the time you need to select a thoughtful yet comfortable black or dark-hued ensemble, and consider bringing a few additional items for yourself or others, such as hand sanitizer, tissues, and an umbrella (if the funeral is to take place outside).
Weekend Vacation Essentials: By Season
Spring
Weather conditions in the springtime are subject to change, with temperatures often varying from 48 to 84 degrees. The best rule of thumb is usually to pack lightweight fabrics, with a vest or hoodie to throw on if conditions get cooler.
Summer
The most obvious elements of a summer wardrobe tend to be the ones most commonly forgotten – double-check you’ve packed your swimsuit, sunglasses, sunscreen, and activity-friendly footwear, whether it’s flip flops for the beach or hiking boots for an outdoor adventure. In the summer season you’ll definitely want to stick to breathable materials such as linen and cotton, and may only want to pack a lightweight jacket for the slight chill of air-conditioned environments.
Fall
As it is with the transitional season of spring, the fall is also an unpredictable time of year when it comes to weather. To be prepared for any autumnal conditions, you may want to include jeans, shorts, one long- and one short-sleeved t-shirt, and a flannel or brushed cotton shirt to layer as needed. A versatile leather jacket is also an excellent choice for outerwear this time of year.
Winter
Winter clothes don’t weigh significantly more than other garments, but they can be bulky and difficult to fit in luggage. To save on space in your weekend carryon, consider wearing some of your layering items during your flight. You can always remove them as needed to remain comfortable, or you may find that a cold-weather jacket is just what you need for thermal balance in a highly air conditioned terminal. In addition to climate-appropriate winter boots, don’t forget a hat, scarf, and gloves!
Find Your New Favorite Summer Travel Essentials
Planning a trip this summer? Whether it’s for a weekend or season-long vacances, SAINT CROIX has the menswear essentials you need to enjoy the hottest season in style. Shop our New Arrivals now or request a free personal styling session to get expert assistance in designing your summer wardrobe.