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Tips & Tricks · March 29, 2022

What to Pack for a 3 Day Trip: Ultimate Weekend Packing List

Your short trip is booked and you are ready to rock! Except when it comes to packing. Knowing what to pack for 3 day trip can be stressful when you have so much on your mind! But you are in the right place because this post will make sure you pack everything you need and includes a list, while also motivating you to PACK LIGHT.

No matter what type of trip you are going on—a short business trip, a fun weekend getaway, or a little bit of both, reviewing the lists below are a good idea! First, let’s get started with some tips.

5 Tips for Your Weekend Trip Packing List

Here are a few things to have in mind in order to keep packing as simple as possible.

1. Start Early

Make a list and start laying clothes out that you’re interested in bringing the week before your trip begins. This will give you a chance to weigh options and make decisions on what you really need vs. doing it in a panic and taking your entire closet with you.

I prefer to set up my list by day. For instance, in an iPhone Note I will list out Friday, Saturday, Sunday, Monday. Underneath each day I’ll type out everything I’ll need to wear that day. TIPS:

• Include EVERYTHING down to pairs of underwear and socks. I put my pairs of shoes as well.
• It does not mean you need to wear it that specific day, but this will help you not overpack and help you feel confident that you will have enough clothes.

This brings us to our next tip…

2. Pack in Outfits

Do not, I repeat do not,  pack clothes by individual item. You want to bring your best-fitting jeans? Great, what are you going to wear with them? Your favorite leggings? Grab them and figure out what top(s) are your best option.

Envision your days away and imagine which types of clothes you will need. From there, make individual piles for each outfit/day.

And don’t forget to check the weather forecast. Warm weather or cold will obviously be a huge indicator for what you need to bring.

In the photo below, you’ll see three “columns” with each day’s outfit. And remember, there is actually no law stating that you can’t wear something more than once—especially things like cardigans and jeans. This brings us to…

3. Mix and Match is Key

Can you bring interchangeable outfits? Triple points for you. Pack a cute, comfortable, black dress with a cardigan that will be perfect for exploring the city. The next night, replace the cardigan with a scarf and you’re ready for the bar. That’s three pieces of clothing for two outfits instead of a day-time outfit plus three night-time outfits because you might want to wear the green dress, maybe the pink one and this yellow one is cute too .

If you are only gone for a weekend, your bag can be small—cheaper and easier to manage. That said, you need to be smart with your space…

4. Roll Into More Space

Tightly rolled clothes will go much farther in your backpack, carry-on suitcase, or duffel bag than folding and they will actually be less wrinkly. Roll everything, place the largest items on the bottom like jeans and jackets and work your way up from there. When you don’t have much space, this goes a long way!

5. Your Travel Outfit

Think layers. Wear your jacket, your biggest top, and bulkiest shoes in order to avoid all of this going into your small bag. You might get a little toasty but you can de-layer once you are at the airport gate. PRO TIP: I’ve never been told I couldn’t have a jacket (or two) in my arms when boarding.

What to Pack for 3 Day Trip: Bonus Tips

Here are a few extra things to keep in mind when you are packing for a weekend trip.

• Packing Cubes : These is the BEST WAY to utilize more space in a small bag.
• Use. Your. Pockets.:  Jacket pockets, jeans pockets, personal item pockets, use them all! These are the perfect place for smaller items (makeup, lip balm, phone chargers, sunglasses, etc.) when you can’t fit one more thing in your carry-on bag.
• Dryer Sheets: Throw a few between layers of clothes to keep everything smelling fresh!
• Backpack = Purse:  Invest in a cute backpack and not only do you have luggage but a purse to walk around the city with—hands-free, mind you.
• Plastic Bag or large Ziploc Bag : Bring one with you to store dirty underwear, socks, wet swimsuits, etc.
• Cold Weather Travel Tip : If you are going somewhere cold, think more in extra layers vs. bulky items. A base layer, light fleece, and water-repellent outer layer will pack better than one oversize sweater – and you will have more items as options throughout your trip.

What to Pack for 3 Day Trip—Checklist!

Let’s get an actual what to pack for 3 day trip checklist going. Use this as a guide when you are creating your packing list in your phone or on a sheet of paper. Remember, START WITH THE ESSENTIALS. From there, you can add in a couple of extra items or outfits you “might” want to wear—IF there is space.

One pair of bottoms for number of days. For three, you will have a pair of jeans (or jean shorts), one pair of leggings, and a pair to wear while traveling. Remember, if you have room at the end, you can easily get another pair of pants in.

One top for number of days that you matched with a pair or bottoms. Wear the bulkiest top when you travel and put the rest in your bag. Neutral, everyday tops are the way to go for convenience and being happy with what you decided to bring.

Bonus: Dresses. No pants = more space!

Cardigan/Sweater

One total. It’s best if you wear it but you should have room to pack. The best option is a black or neutral color sweater that works well with all of your top options and can be worn more than once, if needed.

Jacket (Optional)

If a jacket is necessary, make sure you wear it on travel day (even a rain jacket!) so you don’t take up a ton of space in your bag!

Bathing Suit + Cover Up (Optional)

One of each for the weekend. If you happen to have space and want to bring an extra, go for it. These items can be rolled up and made small.

One pair. A sleep shirt and a pair of light sweats or shorts. If you have space, throw in an extra. Remember, a top that you bring might work just fine, too.

Socks/Underwear/Bras

One set of each for number of days. Keep in mind that this will give you one extra just in case since you are wearing a set on travel day.

T he biggest pair on your feet + 1 extra. Comfort is key. You do not want to be walking around in uncomfortable shoes. Pro Tips when it comes to your shoes:

• Store your socks in your shoes for extra space —and to keep your shoes in form.
• If your backpack has a spot for a water bottle, think of it as a spot for flip flops.
• Tie your shoes to the top of your backpack. Remember, this is efficiency—not fashion 🙂

Extras + Bathroom Essentials

Fit what you can. Don’t forget: Hotels are going to have towels, shampoos, lotions, hair dryers, etc. so don’t waste space with these items. The rest is for a book, phone charger, jewelry, small makeup bag, workout shirt, wallet, etc.

Overall Rule of Thumb: If you question it, leave it at home.

Lastly, Why You Will LOVE to Pack Light

Even if you think you won’t or proclaim yourself to be an “over packer,” you will be hooked to packing light after the first time. And here are the added bonuses:

You have fewer options. You eliminate the  hmmm, what am I going to wear today? Or the ew I hate this, I’m changing.  It’s simple and efficient with no time lost. Instead of bringing 10 outfits you like, focus on 4 that you love. And before you hit me with I just like options , stop.

You’re not going to worry about more options if you don’t have them. Quit wasting precious vacation time wishing you had the off-the-shoulder striped shirt when you have the cute, v-neck blue one. You look great! And should spend less time in your hotel room and more having a good time on your trip.

Saves Energy

Post-vacation laundry. I know you’ve been in the situation where you open your suitcase to unpack, realize you have no idea what’s clean and what’s dirty so you do a monster load of laundry that’s likely half full of clean clothes. Double the loading, double the switching, double the folding, and double the dreaded putting away. No thanks. Pack only what you know you will wear and come home with one, small size load of laundry.

Saves Money

We know how a lot of the airines charge for bags now! What a joke. But you should not have to incur an additional cost just for your clothes! Keep things in a small personal item bag for an even more afforadble trip!

Reduces Stress

Traveling is a breeze when you are doing it lightly.  Everything you have is on your back! It’s easier to get around, store and there are fewer moments of  oh my gosh, where’s my [insert super important thing here]?!”

What to Pack for 3 Day Trip: Weekend Packing List

There you have it. You are now a 3 Day Trip Packing Pro! Or at least on your way to packing a little bit less…baby steps. And if this What to Pack for a 3 Day Trip post inspired you to start planning your next trip, check out a few of my city reviews as recommendations and all of the great things you can do!

• How to Spend a Weekend in Dallas, Texas
• How to Spend Two Days at Zion National Park
• Things to Do in Sedona, Arizona

Did this post help you out? Support the work and pass along $5 for a Coors Light 😉 VENMO: @Amber-LBB or PAYPAL: [email protected]. THANK YOU.

You’ll Also Love

November 16, 2018 at 9:43 am

Great job, I’m just sorry it took me this long to learn how to pack. I just did 2 weeks with a carry on and lg. Purse. Keep up your wonderful blog Merv

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The Best 3-Day Trip Packing List + Printable Checklist

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For an in-depth guide on how to pack light for any length of trip, download my FREE PACKING LIGHT E-BOOK and start Packing Like a Pro today!

For many people, packing can be a daunting task, especially if you are trying to pack light for a short weekend and do not know where to start.

Over the years, I’ve become more and more confident with my packing abilities. Knowing what to leave at home, how to get more out of less, and what “just in case” items are actually smart to bring is key.

There are a few rules I abide by when packing for shorter trips to make sure I bring the right gear every time without bringing my entire wardrobe. From the type of luggage I use, to specific travel shoes and the perfect number of underwear to bring, at this point, packing is a breeze for me!

This post will share all of my packing tips and a 3-day packing list that works every time!

Click HERE to download my printable 3-day packing checklist

Table of Contents: Jump to

How to Pack for 3-days

There are a few things to think about when starting to pack for your trip. Ask yourself, what activities am I doing, what the weather is like, are there any special events.

On a three-day trip, you won’t need a large suitcase. A carry-on roller and a personal bag should do the trick. 

Some people love a backpack when packing for short trips. Because I often travel with a camera backpack (in addition to traditional luggage), I never use a backpack for packing clothing. I find a rolling suitcase is the easiest to tote around and gives you easy access to your belongings while keeping things organized and wrinkle-free. It’s also an easy way to lighten your load-I always use a backpack with a trolly handle passthrough so my backpack can sit comfortably on top of my carry-on rollaboard suitcase .

If I need additional space, a weekender bag with dual compartments and a luggage handle passthrough is my go to. I love the Tumi Voyager because it is so well made with easy zippers, lots of pockets and it has a lightweight and durable material. It is pricey, but I have had it for over 6 years and I have never had an issue. I do not anticipate ever buying a new one!

The best place to start with packing for a 3-day trip is to pull out any necessities. A necessity is an item you must take with you that has a clear purpose, such as medications or a specific outfit for a specific event or occasion.

If there are any events or activities with a specific dress code (such as a wedding, meetings, or even hiking), pull these outfits together first, complete with shoes and any accessories you need. Lay everything out so you can see what you need to bring, and then build additional outfits around the ones you must travel with.  

Make a checklist with all the necessary details to ensure you won’t forget anything. You can download my printable 3-day packing checklist here. There is additional room to jot down your own notes.

Top Items to Pack For a Weekend Trip

In general, you do not need a lot of options on a three day trip. You can easily get away with less. Below I’ve broken down each major category with tips for weekend trip packing.

Travel Documents

If it is only three days, you most likely won’t be leaving the country but make sure you have any importation documents stored in a secure place. For plane travel I always use a hip pack for easy access to important documents + phone and money while walking through the airport.

For a three-day trip bring:

• Driver’s License
• Reservation Documents
• Cash + Credit Card + ATM Card

Packing with intention is key here. Don’t bring any “what ifs.” If you want to pack light, plan your outfits with confidence in advance. 

Use the capsule wardrobe method to pack items that can be mixed and matched. Pull items in the same color scheme to make sure pieces can be mixed and matched. Make sure all your clothing can be worn with the same accessories and pair of shoes. 

The only reasonable “what if” is a rain jacket. Even then, I usually only pack one if I am doing a lot of outdoor activities or long distance hiking, as you always want to be prepared for continuum exposure to the elements. 

If it is not an outdoorsy trip, I most likely will not be outside if it rains, so a rain jacket is useless in most cases.

Tip: Skip the umbrella. They add bulk and weight to your already limited space. Travel umbrellas are usually poorly made and do not even hold up in inclement weather anyways. You are better off with an emergency poncho that is compact and easy to store.

Items to pack for a 3-day trip:

• 2-3 Casual Tops
• 2 Casual Bottoms
• 1-2 PJ sets
• 1 dress or skirt outfit (elevated outfit)
• 1 jacket or lightweight sweater depending on weather

Make sure the tops can be worn with either bottom for optimal outfit options.

Wear the same travel outfit coming and going to free up luggage space. I love the cozy Vuori jogger sets for travel days and sometimes use them to sleep in as well.

Socks and Underwear

I pack 1 pair of socks for every two days of travel as I am perfectly fine wearing the same socks two days in a row. If your feet profusely sweat or get really stinky, bring more socks. You can also try adding baby powder to your shoes to help absorb the sweat. I do this all the time and it really works!

As far as underwear, I bring two pairs per day, a day pair and a night pair. I am never afraid to overpack underwear. It’s not bulky so one pair takes up minimal room. Nothing feels fresher than a new pair of undies on a long travel day-especially when showering is not an option. 

• 3 pairs of socks
• 4-6 pairs of underwear

Limit shoes as they are the bulkiest items in a suitcase and take up a lot of room. For a three day trip, two pairs of shoes, a sneaker and sandal (or ankle boot for cold weather), are the best options to pack. Many people would recommend just one pair of shoes (the ones you are wearing), but I recommend two pairs. I often travel in white sneakers or my birkenstocks but depending on my destination and the activities I am doing, a second pair is a must for an elevated option.

I always use a shoe bag to store shoes in my suitcase. I use the one that came with my Beis luggage or a plastic produce bag. You can also use shower caps to cover the bottom of dirty shoes to protect them from other items in your suitcase. 

Wear your bulkiest shoe on travel days to save space in your luggage.

• 1 pair of comfortable casual sneaker or day shoe
• 1 pair of sandals or an elevated shoe
• Water shoes for tropical destinations
• Tennis shoe or trainer for working out
• Sturdy hiking boots if needed for a challenging hike

Accessories

Pack sparingly! Accessories like bags, hats and ornate jewelry can get bulky quickly. Choose bags that can be compressed easily and jewelry that is not susceptible to breaking. Storing delicate jewelry in a hard case is ideal but it does take up space. 

I rarely travel without a wide brimmed hat and LOVE the TopTote magnetic hat clips . They attach easily to any bag and are super secure (only one hat per clip). The original design is 100% better made than the dupes you find on Amazon (although you can buy the original on Amazon). After losing a hat and having two off brand dupes fall apart, I’ll only use the original Hat Clip by TopTote (it is worth the cost).

• 1 day bag or backpack
• 1 small evening bag
• 1 wide-brimmed hat or baseball cap (optional)
• 1 belt (optional)
• Only bring the necessary jewelry. Leave all valuables at home!

Oftentimes when traveling, toiletries can make or break you. If you have a 10 step skincare or a huge makeup case, you’ll want to limit it on your 3-day weekend. Take the necessities and if you are flying, keep in mind the 3-1-1 carry on liquids rule. 

Per the TSA website: The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) maintains a 3-1-1 liquids rule for carry-on bags. This rule states that each liquid, gel, or aerosol container must be 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less, and all containers must fit in a clear, plastic, zip-top bag that is no larger than one quart. Each passenger is limited to one bag. 

While few airports enforce the plastic bag rule, you will have to dispose of liquids if you attempt to bring too many ounces in a carry-on. The only airport I know of that is very strict with carry-on toiletries is London-Heathrow. They enforce the 1 quart size bag per person rule.

If I am driving, I usually bring my full size skin care products because it is easier to pack, yes it takes up more room but since I have the room in the car, it is so much easier not to have to transfer my favorite products to smaller size bottles . It is one reason why I LOVE a road trip !

When traveling by plane with carry-on only, I stick to a 3 step skincare routine and buy travel size skincare products and use TSA approved travel size bottles for face wash and body lotion.

Some people prefer to use hotel toiletries. This is a great way to pack light and avoid taking too many liquids but as I get older my skin and hair does not do well with hotel products. These products usually dry my skin and scalp out and are full of chemicals and fragrances, which I always avoid in my self-care products.

For a three-day trip don’t forget:

• Face Moisturizer
• Shampoo 
• Conditioner
• Body Wash/soap
• Body Lotion
• Shaving Supplies
• Hair Styling Tools
• Contacts (for eyes) Supplies
• Insect Repellent

Electronics

Electronics is another category that can get out of hand quickly- these items can get heavy fast so make sure to pack with intention. One rule I live by is, if I am not going to use it daily, I keep it at home. The only “what if” item I bring is a portable battery charger and only if I’ll be doing outdoor activities for an extended period of time. 

This is my favorite portable battery charger. It has multiple built-in ports for different devices and is easily charged via a wall outlet.

Before packing an iPad, a laptop, and an e-reader, really think about your weekend trip and what activities you will be doing. Will you have a lot of downtime? Do you really need to lug around a computer and an iPad? Make sure to validate your reasons for packing these items.

For a three-day trip, you might want the following:

• Phone Charger (wall and car)
• Portable battery pack
• Book/Kindle + charger
• Noise-canceling headphones 
• Lab Top Computer/iPad + Chargers 
• Camera + spare battery

Remember to pack sparingly! Only bring what you really need. If you are not going to use it every day, consider keeping it at home.

Miscellaneous Travel Items

Make sure to leave some room for must-have travel items. When flying, I always take these carry-on travel essentials . 

Depending on your style of travel, you will want certain things. Here are a few basic essentials to consider.

What to pack for a weekend away:

• Medications
• Water Bottle
• Travel Snacks 
• Travel Pillow
• Journal + Pen
• Tripod for taking selfies
• First Aid Kit

Click here to download your Free Printable 3-Day Packing List

Tips for Packing Light

Remember to pack with intention when packing for a three-day trip. It is easy to overpack if you are not clear on expectations of the trip. Knowing what to expect and what to pack for is ideal. 

• Be OK wearing something more than once. Unless it’s incredibly hot and sweaty or you get dirty, you do not need to wash all your clothing every time you wear it. Less washing will help preserve the color and fabric of your garments so they look newer longer.
• Wear your bulkiest items on the plane. If packing for cold weather, wear your heavy coat and boots on the plane to save valuable luggage space. Your jacket will make a great pillow and you can always take your shoes off while flying.
• Be strategic when packing shoes and accessories . Make sure your outfits pair nicely with the same shoes and bags to make packing easier. 
• Build a capsule wardrobe. Choosing a mix-and-match collection of clothing for a short trip is ideal to give you more options during your weekend away. 

Popular Questions for Packing for a 3-day Weekend Trip

How many outfits should i bring for a 3-day trip.

Assuming you will not be doing laundry, it is reasonable to bring three tops and two bottoms + a dress or skirt option for an elevated look.

Bring two pairs of socks, unless your feet are prone to sweat and odor, in that case, bring 3-4. Pack 4-6 pairs of underwear since they take up little space and keep you feeling fresh.

Bring two pairs of shoes. A pair of comfortable sneakers/day shoes and one sandal/elevated pair of shoes is ideal.

How do you pack light for a 3-day trip?

Three days is already a short amount of time so packing light will be easier than you might thing. First, know what to expect on your trip.

• What activities will you be doing?
• What is the weather like?
• How long is the transportation to and from?
• Will you need special outfits for certain activities? 

Next, pack with the necessities in mind and bring only what you will use. Do not pack for the “what ifs.” The best way to pack light is to pack a capsule wardrobe. Pack separates that can be mixed and matched and ones that go with the same accessories and shoes.

How much luggage do I need for a 3-day trip?

One carry-on size roller suitcase plus an additional personal item is all you need for a short three day trip. 

I love the Beis hard luggage spinners . They wheel flawlessly, look good, have extras such as a compression flap and zipper pockets plus mine have all held up after years of abuse.

How can I minimize what I pack for toiletries on a weekend trip?

To minimize packing toiletries on your short weekend trip, be willing to travel with less. Cut your skincare routine down to the most important steps (face wash, serum, moisturizer & sunscreen). Opt for solid shampoo and conditioner bars over bottles of liquids.

Make sure to use toiletry bottles under 3.4 oz to save space in luggage. You can even put some liquids, gels, or lotions in plastic bags that take up much less space than bottles. It won’t be as easy to get your favorite products out of a bag, but it’s another great way to save space if you really need it.

You can also use whatever the hotel offers. I hate doing this because the quality of hotel toiletries is poor, but it’s a great way to limit packing toiletries.

Some people buy their toiletries at their destination and leave what they do not use. I do not like this option either because it feels like a waste of money, plus it takes up time and you run the risk of your destination not having your preferred items and brands. However, it may be ideal for a certain type of traveler.

Overall, the best way to minimize packing toiletries for your trip is to bring less! 3-days is a short trip, so sacrificing some skincare steps that are normally a part of your at-home routine should not be a big deal.

No matter where your next 3-day trip takes you, I hope this post will help you pack light and smart so you have more time to enjoy your vacation and not be weighed down by luggage!

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Weekend Trip Packing List: What to Bring for a 3-Day Getaway

Published September 16, 2023

Written by:

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Co-founder, tortuga.

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Table of Contents

Weekend trips seem like they should be the easiest ones to pack for. But they always end up being the hardest.

Weekends should be simple. The trip is short, the weather won’t vary much, and you probably know what you’ll be doing.

But packing light for a weekend trip can pose a challenge. We all tend to pack as much as we can fit, not just what we need. Whether you’re traveling for a weekend or a month, you’ll probably fill your backpack or suitcase. When you have the space, you start adding stuff you’ll never need, like an extra pair of shoes or a just-in-case outfit.

Your stuff will expand to fill your bag.

To combat this tendency, stick to a short weekend trip packing list and pack a small bag.

3-Day Weekend Packing List

Let’s start off with a quick checklist for a three-day, two-night weekend trip. The packing list below assumes that you leave on Friday, stay Friday and Saturday nights, then return home on Sunday.

For clothing, we’ve included your travel day (or in-flight) clothing in the packing list.

• 1 pair of shoes
• 3 sets of underwear
• 3 pairs of socks (1-2 pairs if wearing merino wool socks )
• 1 set of pajamas
• Toiletry bag
• Water bottle
• Phone, charger , and earbuds or headphones
• Book or Kindle

Consider at least one “nice” outfit depending on your plans. Dressing up—especially if you don’t have to—can make a nice dinner feel like a special occasion when you’re traveling.

Optional Add-Ons

• Eye mask and ear plugs
• Hat, scarf, and/or gloves for winter trips

Bring everything you need without checking a bag.

• Carry-On-Sized
• Easy to pack
• Comfortable to carry
• Built to last

Travel Day Outfit

The outfit you wear to travel should be the bulkiest outfit of the trip, especially if you’re flying. Wear your biggest, heaviest clothes—jeans, sweater, boots, jacket—so that you can save space in your bag. If you’re too warm, you can always remove a layer after takeoff and store it in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you.

If you’re flying, your travel outfit should include a  light jacket with zippered pockets. The pockets will provide extra space for packing things like your wallet, phone, chapstick, boarding pass, and other travel day essentials . The zippers will keep your stuff secured when you go through airport security.

Shoes are always a challenge when packing. It’s easy to convince yourself that you need a second pair, even for a three-day trip. Resist this temptation. Instead, pack one pair of shoes  you can wear all weekend. Your shoes must be comfortable enough for walking all day but nice enough to wear out to dinner.

In the winter, choose warm, comfortable boots. Sandals or sneakers work well in nicer weather. You can always add flip flops for the beach or pool if needed. Most will fit in your backpack’s water bottle pocket.

Electronics

Be careful not to overpack electronics. For such a short trip, you can leave your work computer at home. Since you’ll either be driving or taking a short flight, skip the tablet too. Your flight might be too short to watch a movie anyway.

A Kindle is my favorite in-flight entertainment for short trips. You’ll also have your phone and earbuds if you prefer to listen to music or a podcast.

When it comes to toiletries, take only the essentials. If you can live without it or survive with a different brand for a day or two, leave it at home.

Choose a hotel or an Airbnb that provides basics so that you don’t have to bring soap or shampoo.

• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Contact solution, if needed
• Basic makeup, if needed
• Soap, shampoo, and conditioner (only if not provided by your accommodation)

Consider if you can pool resources and share the packing burden with your travel companions. Do you each need to bring your own bottle of sunscreen or can one person bring a bottle for everyone to share?

If you forget anything, just grab a cheap option at your destination. You can bring home any leftovers so that you aren’t being wasteful.

Long Weekend Packing List

If you’re staying over Sunday night and heading home on Monday, use this list instead.

• 4 sets of underwear
• 4 pairs of socks (2 pairs if wearing merino wool socks )
• Phone, charger, and earbuds or headphones

Wedding Weekend Packing List

Weddings may require packing a bit more.

You’ll need an extra pair of shoes and one or two extra outfits so that you’re always dressed appropriately. In addition to dress clothes for the wedding, consider what you’ll need for the rehearsal dinner or Sunday morning activities if either will be part of the festivities.

• 2 pairs of shoes (1 pair for the wedding, 1 pair for everything else)
• 5 outfits (1 casual outfit for each day plus the wedding and rehearsal dinner)
• 4 pairs of socks (3 casual, 1 dress)

Best Weekend Backpack

We recommend packing a bag that’s made for travel—not just the old duffel at the back of your closet—especially if you’re flying. You’ll need a bag that’s optimized for packing , getting through security, and being accessible in-flight. Depending on how and what you’re packing, we recommend two options.

Why You Should Pack Last Minute

Packing last minute sounds sacrilegious, especially for Type A travelers. But hear me out.

You don’t need to bring much for a weekend getaway, so you won’t need much planning or packing time.

If you wait until the night before your trip to pack, you can be even more efficient. Check the weather last minute so that you know it won’t change (much). By then, you’ll also know your weekend plans and can pack and dress accordingly.

No need to worry about any “just in case” stuff.

Pack a small backpack and limit yourself to one outfit (or less) per day.

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Fred Perrotta is the co-founder and CEO of Tortuga. His first backpacking trip to Europe inspired him to start the company. For over a decade, he’s traveled the world from his home base in the Bay Area while working remotely. When he’s on the road, Fred enjoys both walking and eating as much as possible.

Read more from Fred

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The 3 Day Packing Method: The ONLY Packing Method You’ll Ever Need

It only took us 10 years of traveling to 40 countries to finally create a packing method that works for anyone and works for anywhere. A packing method that would work whether we're hiking in Iceland, vacationing in Maui, or visiting home for Christmas.

If you're anything like us, you are frustrated with overpacking, probably forgetting something, or just having that feeling of lack, like you can't bring everything that you want on the trip.

Spoiler alert… you can and you are going to love our three day packing method.

Even if you don't believe us now, by the end of this article, you will see how you can pack for any trip by just packing for three specific days.

Watch along as we pack for an trip to Europe using the 3 Day Packing Method.

The Method Behind The Packing

Before we get into the right way to pack, we need to touch base on the ways that you might be currently packing incorrectly.

The 3 ways we see people get packing wrong:

Starting with a suitcase

Grabbing a suitcase that is too large for your needs means you’re going to fill it, no problem.

Starting in the closet

This is how you get overwhelmed by packing because is causes such a feeling of lack. If you feel overwhelmed by packing, maybe it's because you're starting in the closet.

Trying to fulfill a specific “number”

We see this a lot. “Bring three tops and three bottoms” or “five tops and two bottoms”. We don’t think of our wardrobe numerically, so you shouldn’t when packing! This also doesn't account for special occasions or specific days what you’re planning for.

The 3 Day Packing Method

The 3 Day Packing Method works by pulling everything you could possibly need for 3 specific days of your trip.

The Essential Day

The Every Day

The Travel Day

By pulling everything you’ll need from the moment you wake up to the moment you climb into bed for these 3 days, you’ll have everything you need for any length of trip.

No matter where.

The first day to pull for is The Essential Day. To get yourself thinking about what to pull for this day, ask yourself, “If you could only pack for one day of this trip, what would it be?”

Is there a special event?

Are you going to your best friend's wedding?

Are you sitting in your pajamas on Christmas morning?

This could mean a variety of items are needed. Maybe this means you’re bringing a down coat or alternatively, a couple of bathing suits.

For our example, we’re going to pack for a summer vacation in an ambiguous European country.

THE ESSENTIAL DAY OF YOUR TRIP

Let’s say you’re traveling for your anniversary trip to Paris. The Essential Day you’re packing for is your actual anniversary which includes sightseeing, a picnic at the Eiffel Tower, and a fancy, romantic dinner. You’re going to start pulling everything you need for this entire Essential Day.

A. THE MORNING OF YOUR ESSENTIAL DAY

Start by thinking about what you wake up in.

This could mean pulling your:

Maybe a sleep mask

A robe you bought for the trip

The pulling process isn’t just about clothing. It includes everything.

Serums for your morning skin care routine

Your hair dryer (and converter)

Any medications you take

TIP: If you’re packing too early for your trip to start packing your toiletries, continue to use your toiletries, but after you use them, place them in a specific area on your counter or dresser next to your toiletry set to be sure you’ll pack them when it is time.

B. THE AFTERNOON OF YOUR ESSENTIAL DAY

A day of sightseeing and a picnic lunch calls for comfort. For the afternoon of your Essential Day, you may pull from your closet:

Casual shorts

A light top

A sweater, in case your shoulders need to be covered

Walking shoes

Socks for these specific shoes

Underwear for this outfit

A tote bag for groceries

Your favorite sunglasses

A small cross-body purse

Do you need any accessories for this outfit? Don’t forget your belt, any jewelry, and the specific bag you want to be carrying with you on this day.

C. THE EVENING OF YOUR ESSENTIAL DAY

This night is the whole reason that you considered this day to be your Essential Day. You purchased a specific dress to be worn for this specific dinner reservation in this specific city. So you need to bring it!

Pull everything you need for the Essential Day plans:

Shoes to go with your dress

Undergarments for this dress

A fancier purse

Earrings we got as a gift from the anniversary before

Have you thought about a sweater? Does your sweater from earlier in the day work with this new outfit?

This is where you would pull the toiletries for this night as well. You may not think you need different toiletries because you already packed your morning routine… think again!

The lipstick we want to wear this night

A special perfume

All of these items that you typically are scrambling to find at the drug store in a different country with 5 Euros in cash.

D. THE NIGHT OF YOUR ESSENTIAL DAY

The Big Day of your trip has come to an end and it’s time to get ready for bed.

Do you put on the same pajamas that you woke up in? If not, add another set.

Do you have a different skin care routine for the evening? Do you have separate medication to take?

During this method, take it day by day. You do not need to think about the rest of the trip at this point.

Just make sure you are perfectly packed for this single day.

2. The Every Day

Just like we are packing for a trip to an ambiguous European country in our example, you are going to now pack the perfect ambiguous day at your location.

What does your Every Day look like?

If you're sitting there daydreaming about your trip, what are you doing on this trip?

Do you and your travel partner love to always grab coffee in the morning?

Are you so excited to swim in this destination?

Is there an epic hike here that you’re going on?

Are you a foodie and you know that you're going to be hitting some of the top restaurants in the city?

To ensure you are packing everything you need for your trip, begin by taking your Every Day from morning to night.

A. THE MORNING OF YOUR EVERY DAY

In the morning at this ambiguous location, we are going to enjoy a long breakfast. There’s nothing like a leisurely morning on vacation.

For this morning, we’re going to start with another pair of pajamas and work our way out of the Airbnb.

A lounge set for breakfast

A pair of slip-on sandals

A darker shade of sunnies incase we can feel last night’s cocktails

One thing about us on vacation, we’re going to be in the water. Spending time poolside requires a few more items to be added to the morning of your Every Day:

Sunscreen (unless we plan to purchase at our destination)

You might be asking, “That’s it?”

Yep. That’s it.

We noted some other items we may have wanted at the pool like a cover up, sandals, sunglasses, and a tote bag. Turns out, all of these items had already been added in previous steps!

You could use our breakfast outfit as our pool cover up and the tote bag we used for our picnic lunch from our Essential Day was a perfect way to double up it’s usage.

B. THE AFTERNOON OF YOUR EVERY DAY

Alright, after a nice breakfast and a little swim, we'll probably do some more sightseeing in this location.

For a day out and about, we’re thinking:

A pair of favorite jeans

A T-shirt type of top

Another pair of underwear for after swimming

A pair of go-to white sneakers

Will your afternoon of sightseeing inevitably end with tapas and spritzes? We sure hope it does.

A light linen button down to throw over

A pair of loafers to feel a bit more… European

This is your Every Day which also means your every day makeup routine. Pack up your makeup, skin care, and hair essentials that you will be using every day of your trip.

C. THE EVENING OF YOUR EVERY DAY

Let's say we go back to the hotel to change from our afternoon out to go to our dinner reservations.

Obviously another set of underwear

A quintessential black leather jacket

Staple gold necklace and earrings

And now we have a whole evening outfit pulling from what we’ve already packed.

TIP: By sticking to one familiar color scheme, you’ve just created a capsule wardrobe! This makes mixing and matching parts of outfits so much easier. Think of the fashion possibilities!

This is an ambiguous day.

You’re packing for a day that will more likely than not include things you’ll be doing at your destination.

3. The Travel Day

By now you’ve pulled for the Essential Day, the Every Day, and now it’s time for the…

Travel Day!

No, it doesn’t start with and E, but just go with it.

No matter how you’re planning to get to your destination (airplane, car, train, bus), you’re going to need a travel outfit.

A. THE TRAVEL DAY OUTFIT

The length of your travels will be a factor in what your travel day outfit looks like. A quick roadtrip might mean you’re wearing the same thing in the car that you’ll wear for your Every Day.

Since we are planning for our ambiguous trip to Europe, we have a long travel day ahead of us.

What to wear for long haul flights?

DURING THE FLIGHT

Stick to something comfy but that you still feel confident in! Think a matching lounge set with a hooded jacket and comfortable pants.

Layers are key because you never know if it’s going to be freezing or boiling hot on the plane. END OF THE FLIGHT

After a long flight, nothing feels better than getting out of your travel clothes! Help relieve this feeling by packing a change of clothes into your personal item.

Even if you don’t change your entire outfit, changing your underwear, socks, and maybe your T-shirt will have you feeling fresh during your first few hours at your destination.

B. THE TRAVEL DAY ESSENTIALS

The Travel Day is about way more than just the outfit, though.

For the Travel Day, you’re going to pack everything that you need from the moment you leave your house to the moment you get to your hotel.

Some of these items include:

Universal plug adapter

Neck pillow

Everything that you need should be pulled at this point. Right now you'll notice that we're you still have not officially “packed”, only pulled everything that you’ll need.

C. HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT PERSONAL ITEM

At this step, you can look back at what bags you have already pulled. Will any of these bags work for you Travel Day personal item?

Fo our ambiguous trip to Europe, we have already pulled 3 bags:

Cross-body purse

Fancy clutch

None of the really fit what we need for our personal item.

Instead of reaching aimlessly for another bag to use, remember to fit your personal item to your destination.

If you’re going to a beach destination, choose a bag that can double as your beach bag.

At this point, we might look back at our Essential Day tote bag and realize that a zippered cooler bag would work better for our picnic lunch

Great! We ditched the tote bag and chose our zippered cooler bag. The cooler bag has now turned into our personal item and all of the items we pulled can go right into the cooler.

A great way to keep your personal item organized, especially in a bag without many zippered compartments, is to keep your items in a travel pouch .

4. What If?

Okay, but wait, wait, wait. Don't freak out here. There's a little bit more.

There's one last step in this three day method that you're going to love.

There is a step in everyone's packing process that they don't necessarily know that they're doing it, but everyone does it and nobody has articulated what it is.

The 3 Day Packing method has allowed for this feeling. The feeling of “what if?”

What are some common What If questions?

What if it is raining?

What if my feet hurt?

What if I’m cold?

What if I’m overdressed?

What if I’m underdressed?

What if I get sick?

What if it is buggy?

A. THE “WHAT IF’S” OF PACKING

During this step, you are allowed to go run and grab one “What If” item or outfit that satisfies your what if questions and fits onto each day.

For example, what if it's raining?

Weather happens! Pull an item for each day that will alleviate this feeling.

An umbrella may be more suited for your Essential Day so that you’re not wearing a raincoat on top of your evening dress.

A raincoat may be more suited for your Every Day so that you’re not wrestling to close an umbrella every time you enter a museum.

B. THE WHAT IFS OF THE TRAVEL DAY

Travel day “what ifs” are big because anything can happen with travel.

What if there’s a delay?

What if they require more documentation?

What if I began to stink?

These are all valid feelings! Print off additional forms, and add in a T-shirt change

Completing the 3 Day Packing Method

The 3 Day Packing Method is designed to pack for your three most important days.

To have the feeling of abundance and not lack while still packing minimally by tailoring all of your favorite items to fit your specific trip.

By pulling for just these three days: The Essential Day, The Every Day, and the Travel Day , you end up with so many items.

There will easily be over 50 different ways to pair and style the items that you’ve pulled differently throughout your trip.

This will easily get you through a week and definitely two weeks with just one load of laundry .

Download the free 3-Day Packing Method

Get yourself packed with ease by following the 3-Day Packing Method download.

The moral of the story and the beauty of this method is that if you started listing the number of these items, “Ok, I’m going to just pack 5 shirts, 5 pants, and 2 pairs of shoes for my 5 day trip”, there's no way you would feel as prepared for your upcoming trip.

The Method to Packing Your Suitcase

We're only halfway there.

None of this is in a suitcase yet.

All we've done is pull it and put it on the bed. So you'll need to come back to part two for the right way to pack a suitcase.

Will it be carry-on only?

Stay tuned!

The Right Way To Pack A Suitcase: Carry-On Only With Compression Cubes

Preparing for a trip: a 7 day predeparture strategy & checklist.

What to Pack for a Weekend Away: My 3-Day Packing List

My blog posts likely contain affiliate links, including for the Amazon Associates program. If you click, book, or buy from one of these links, I may earn a commission. Read more in my Privacy Policy .

When I started  Valerie & Valise , I had one mission: help people travel better on the weekends. I had spent a year traveling many weekends across Europe while living in London , so I wrote weekend travel itineraries and tried to help convey my passion for getting out there to travel as much as you can.

But funnily enough – in all that time, I never wrote a list of the things I packed each time I hit the road on a Friday with plans to return Sunday night. I always reach for the same items, but had never documented them – until now.

I’ve now been blogging for almost nine! years and I’m finally writing that post. After almost a decade of being a professional traveler and travel blogger, you can now rely on my experience and expertise to make packing for your next weekend trip a bit easier – no more overpacking or forgetting something important!

Here’s what you need to pack for a weekend away, based on my years of experience traveling the world for weekends and longer trips too. Feel free to let me know in the comments if you have any questions or if I forgot something you consider essential.

This post was originally published in September 2019, and was updated in October 2022.

Table of Contents

Weekend Travel Packing Tips

When it’s Thursday night and you realize last minute you’re setting off on your weekend getaway tomorrow – it’s time to pack! Before you grab everything in your closet, here are a few tips to help you pack better. Following these four tips is a good idea to help you pack what you need, but nothing extra.

Pick the Right Bag

The ‘right bag’ for any given trip depends on a couple of things:

• How long your trip will be (in this case, just a weekend!)
• The form of transport you’re taking (plane, train, or automobile?)
• How much you pack (which I will help you with, in this post)

For many years, I always reached for my  valise  (duffel bag) because it’s easy to carry and looks great. For our fifth anniversary together, Mr. V and I invested in a rolling carry-on suitcase (carry-on bag); that’s now my go-to for any air travel because I’m so over carrying all my belongings on my back through airports.

And then again, a few years later, I upgraded to the Pro Carry-On with Laptop Pocket from Level8 Cases . I love having the laptop pocket so I can use a smaller personal item and keep everything in one bag.

Pack Light & Pack Layers

I have two travel philosophies:  life is too short to wait at the baggage claim  (aka ‘pack light’) and  pack layers . (Heck, if you have extra space, pack extra layer items!)

If you pack for a weekend trip following these two suggestions, you’ll have what you need for every occasion – and nothing extra to carry around on your city break or weekend getaway. This advice works no matter what time of year and wherever you’re going – for international travel or closer to home. So keep these two philosophies in mind as you read the rest of this post – it’s what I’ve based this weekend packing list.

Pack Clothes that Match

Unlike the packing list recommendations I’ve made below – which don’t match at all – I recommend packing clothes that match. Choose a neutral color (read: choose black) and add in a few colored items as accents.

Or if you’re like me and love bright colors, pack, mix and match whatever items and colors you want!

Buy Extras When You Arrive

If you forget something, no biggie! In today’s age, you can literally buy anything you need, anywhere in the world. So if you forgot something, just buy what you need on the ground. Sure, it adds a little extra cost to your trip, but if it’s that essential of an item, you’ll be able to use it at home too.

(Toothpaste and socks are the two I most notoriously forget – and you can’t really go without those for even a weekend! I’ve gotten really good at finding those in airports and pharmacies around the world.)

What to Pack for a Weekend Away

I’ve been publishing packing lists here on V&V for years – and I’ve long said that I pretty much always pack the same things. This is the list of those ‘same things.’  At a quick glance, here’s your perfect weekend trip packing list:

1-2 Pairs of Pants

• 1 Pair of Shorts or a Skirt

2 Base Layer Tank Tops

2 tees or blouses, 1 hoodie or cardigan.

• A Pair of Flats
• Another Pair of Shoes
• Important documents and financial stuff
• Personal items: Underwear, Socks, Pajamas, Toiletries & Tech

If you mix and match these items, you actually have dozens of outfits to choose from – so even this super-short list is way more than you need to pack for a weekend away.

You probably already know which pants and tees you want to pack, but in case you want recommendations, here are my favorite travel clothes. (I’ve got proof of it too – click the links to see me in each of these items while traveling!)

A good pair of pants is hard to come by! No matter what shape you are, it’s hard to find a pair that hangs in the right place and flatters all the right spots.

I personally love the Legging Pants from UNIQLO and pretty much always have two pairs (black and denim) in my wardrobe.

Here I am wearing them in Valley of Fire (Nevada) as well as out in the wilds of Alaska .

1 Pair of Shorts (or a Skirt)

If you’re headed to a warm climate, pack a pair of shorts. If you’re headed somewhere you want to dress up, pack a skirt.

What I love most about Old Navy shorts is that they come in different inseams for different body shapes. I prefer the 5″ inseam; they also come in 2″, 3″, 7″, and more.

This item isn’t for everyone, but I personally love wearing a tank top most days (at home or on the road). If you buy them in different colors, they’re good for mixing and matching to create more outfits – and they help absorb smells to help you stay fresh longer when you’re not doing laundry during a short trip.

I love the  No Yank Tank from Duluth Trading Company  because they have a bunch of fun colors and they really don’t require pulling down all the time as you haul luggage or snap photos while sightseeing on the road.

Here I am in a No Yank Tank while  in Badwater Basin , and again  in Juneau, Alaska .

This is the one area of my packing list where I don’t have a specific recommendation. Us women are so particular about what we love and what makes us feel good that I don’t want to tell y’all what to wear.

Instead, I recommend trying StitchFix . I got both of these tops (pictured; here’s me in one in Seattle) from StitchFixes over the past year – as you can see, you can find almost anything that fits your style.

If you want something simple, H&M has great basic tees , like this one I’m wearing here in Death Valley .

(Get $25 credit if you use my link!)

I always bring a hoodie when I travel because it’s perfect for layering. After all, you can wear it in the morning to run out for coffee or in the evening if it gets cool.

I love UNIQLO Airism hoodies because they’re ultra-soft, fit well, and last. My last one went with Mr. V and I on our extended European jaunt and came home with only minor wear and tear. Here ‘s me rocking my black hoodie on Insta.

If you don’t love hoodies, I am obsessed with the cardigan from the ICONIC20 Set (no longer available). Here’s me wearing it on my summer trip to Joshua Tree .

Okay, bear with me. Another UNIQLO item, but I swear, it’s because they make fantastic clothes for travel! The Ultra Light Down Jacket is perfect because it keeps you super warm but can stuff into a small sack that fits into any carry-on or personal item.

I bought my Ultra Light Down Jacket… four or five years ago, wear it all the time, and it still looks brand new!

Here’s me wearing mine in Alaska a few years ago.

1 Pair of Flats

I pretty much always travel with at least one pair of flats; Tieks have been my go-to for the past three years.

If you want another great option, I also love Toms Julie Flats and they’re half the price.

1+ Other Pairs of Shoes

Lastly, you always need a good pair of adventure shoes – when I know I’m headed out for a hike, walk, kayak, or on a boat… you name it.

I now have two pairs of Toms Mesa Boots , which I absolutely love. They’re comfortable, water resistant up to the ankle, and look great. I literally wear them everywhere, from Jordan to Death Valley to Alaska .

What About Packing Cubes?

I’ll be honest, I was not really a fan of the concept of packing cubes – and then I got the 4 Piece Packing Cubes set from Level8 Cases with my new luggage –  and I love them. If you’re looking for alternatives, Amazon has a set of Basics packing cubes , and I love these Veken packing cubes in my favorite (blog) color.

Other Things to Pack for a Weekend Trip

As you can tell, I obviously don’t cover most of your personal items. I trust you know how many pairs of underwear you need and which cords and plugs you’ll want for the technology you pack. I know you rely on me for any and all travel advice… but I’m confident in your skills with that! That said, there are a few other important things to pack for a weekend trip.

Important Documents

Don’t forget to bring important items you need for travel, such as your passport, printed copies of any tickets you might need, and at least two credit cards. (One to use regularly, the other as an emergency card.)

Electronics, Cords & Plugs

I always bring my computer, my phone, my Apple Watch, and the necessary cords. Sometimes I also have my iPad and the charging cord for that too. Oh, and I always bring both my Airpods and a pair of corded headphones – there are still so many places you can only plug in to listen to stuff!

Undergarments & Pair of Pajamas

I always pack a pair of underwear for each day (unless I’m going for more than 10 days, in which case I pack half the number of days I’m traveling (so 7 pairs for a 14-day trip) and plan to hand-wash them halfway through. I also always bring at least one bra and one or two sports bras. Depending on my travel plans, I often let my workout clothes do double-duty as my pajamas. I also always bring an eye mask because it ensures I get a good night of sleep no matter where I am.

I have a small pack of travel-sized TSA-approved toiletries like sun protection, shampoo, and body wash that I leave in my toiletry bag inside my suitcase even when I’m home. I always remember to throw in my contacts (because I wear dailies), lip balm, toothbrush, and hairbrush – which I don’t have travel versions of. I also now always travel with a cloth mask, a disposable medical mask, and hand sanitizer.

Now you know exactly what I recommend you pack for a weekend trip. Have any questions? Let me know in the comments.

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I was born on the East Coast, grew up in Alaska, lived on the West Coast as an adult, and currently call the Midwest home. I share travel resources and stories based on my personal experience and knowledge.

39 Comments

I have a four day/three day trip planned in July, and this list is gonna be a big help. Thanks to people’s input like this, it makes traveling a lot easier and more organized for people like me.

Michelle, glad to help! Have a great trip!!

Good advice. I love Uniqlo too! The Uniqlo camisole with built in bra makes a great tank or extra layer for warmth or light exercise. The Uniqlo Airism crew tops; turtle necks and short sleeve tops are great for layering and easy to hand wash and dry.

UNIQLO is one of those pro-traveler secrets! Nobody ever believes me how much of my wardrobe is from them even at home! 😅

this unhelpful as you didnt include toiletries what to pack for beauty and what the minum anmount of items should be

Thanks for your comment, Abi, but I don’t assume people need to be told to pack toothpaste or that I should suggest any particular beauty products for my readers.

Abi is right though, why would someone forget to pack their clothes for a trip? It’s more likely they might forget toiletries so it’s helpful to have a list to check off what you should bring. Just a thought here.

Thanks for your comment – everyone has different lists of the things they’ll bring for a weekend depending on what they’re doing and where they are going. I don’t think I could write a list for that, but I did want to break down for my readers how I plan to pack clothes, since that’s something everyone always says they pack too much!

well that might not occur to you but personally it might help if a person is a bit stuck with what to pack just a suggestion

Thanks for the suggestions, helped me in own trip. I had totally forgotten about beauty products and essential documents

Thank you so much for this list!! My bf randomly decided we are going on a trip tomorrow for three days and I’m scrambling to pack 😭 this was a huge help ❤️❤️❤️

Glad to help! Have a safe and healthy trip!

sammeeeeeeeee im going to a farm tho so i need to bring boots and raincoats to(:

Rebecca Gardner

Thanks for the tip to bring a hoodie since we can layer it with anything to stay comfortable. My husband and I think it would help us grow as individuals and as a couple to book a 3-day plant medicine retreat within the next couple of months. I’m glad to read your article and learn some basic things I should bring to ensure the trip is enjoyable on every level!

Have a great time, and I’m glad you’ll have a hoodie to help!

Mike Peters

In warmer climates/months instead of packing 1-2 pants and 1 shorts I pack 2 convertible pants.

I don’t generally recommend convertible pants, but thanks for your comment, Mike!

Thank you for the great ideas. I’ve been trying to pack lighter every trip in the past decade or more!

*** And [HUZZAH!] I’m glad you didn’t go into detail about makeup. I prefer my face wash, some coconut oil, and chapstick. That’s packing light. I don’t feel like reading an ultimatum issue with “which color lipstick OR one more pair of undies?” to fit into a carry-on. 🤣❤️

Thanks again!!!

Glad to help – thanks for reading!! 💖

Tess.crowden

This has helped so much 😃 I forgot about half of that stuff.i was looking things up for going away and thins came up and I was think this won’t help but I went through your website and it has helped so much.

Glad to help, Tess! Have a great trip!

Those people who commented that “no one would forget their clothes” are the worst kind of people. This list is helpful to clarify WHICH clothes to take, not to remind you to take clothes. And not going into detail on make up was the right choice. Everyone’s so different in that area. Great list.

Thanks so much for reading and backing me up, Kat 😅

Thank you so much for this, I’m going on a quick weekend trip and ALWAYS ALWAYS overpack. This definitely trims it down a ton. As for toiletries and such, everyone is different and I would have just ignored that pack. Knowing WHAT CLOTHES TO PACK though was what I needed, so Thank You for again, I really appreciate it and will definitely be using your list!

Glad to help! Thanks for reading, Maria!

Hanna-Liisa Raudsepp

thank you so much, everytime I make a checklist, I always forget something, but thanks to this cheklist idea, I am feeling a lot more confident. I am going on a 3-day trip and I would have a panic attack, if I forgot something. There are though some things that aren’t in the list, like a charger and some other things more, but all over, it was a great source of help 🙂

I’m so glad it helps, Hanna-Liisa!

Been wondering how to go about my 3- day staycation in Mombasa and this just saved the day! Thank you ❤️

Glad to help, Boccy! I hope you had a great trip!

Joanne Taynton

Joanne and Courtney weekend away

Sounds like a fun trip!

Very helpful list. I have a 3-day work-related trip and this list gives me the “ESEENTIAL” items i need to pack. Thank you so much!

Glad to help, Joanne! Have a great trip!

Elva Morales

Hello Valerie,

I literally enjoyed your whole article and great tips on what to pack for a weekend. I am an overpacker and have packed too much for a 4 day trip. Many of the items taken were hardly used because when you have too many, then you cannot decide. Your list was perfect and helps tremendously. The mix and match is a deal breaker. For some making comments, you did have a section further down about the electronics, cords and plugs and toiletries which obviously also means chargers, toothpaste, toothbrush etc etc. Everyone can sit down and make a traveling list that is unique to them as there are many travel lists that people can google and apply accordingly. I Love your weekend packing travel suggestions and tips. You even had links to view you with your suggested clothing, shoes etc. This is Amazing which I have not seen anywhere. I love makeup and I know what I would use so automatically I would know to pack those items that I use without overdoing it. Well a million thanks Valerie for taking the time to provide your experiences and what works for you. 🙂 This helped me to really minimize my packing. Take care and Stay safe in your travels!

Thanks so much for reading and commenting, Elva! Glad to help others pack lighter on their travels 😊

Thanks so much for this article. My friend without much detail/time invite me on a 3 night trip to Michigan. I was stumped pretty much on what to pack. This article helped 100%. Thanks! PS: Don’t listen to those people who say this article isn’t helpful. They have nothing better to do and just want to ruin other’s days.

Thank’s again. 🙂

Hah, thanks so much for reading, Sophie, and for brightening my day!

Thank you so much! Leaving for New Orleans tommorow for a 3 day trip. This really helped espescially because its my first time on an airplane and i have no idea what to pack! Thank you!

I hope you had a great trip, Maddy!

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The 17 Best Weekend Bags for a Quick Getaway

Save yourself the trouble of trying to squeeze all your necessities into a too-small gym bag or lugging around a large rolling suitcase—on your next short trip, opt for these perfect weekender bags instead..

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Whether you’re a backpack, tote bag, or duffel person, there’s a weekend bag for you.

Courtesy of Cotopaxi, Lo & Sons, and Hamilton Perkins Collection

All frequent travelers should consider adding a weekend bag—or “weekender bag”—to their luggage collection . The best weekender bag is both practical and versatile; it should be sturdy enough that you can use it to pack for a rugged mountain trip but stylish enough that you’d bring it along to a bustling city. Not all bags are built the same. Depending on your preferences, a weekender can be a large tote, a backpack, or duffel bag and made from leather and canvas, sturdy weather-resistant polyester, or even recycled plastic bottles.

In terms of size, it’s not quite a gym bag, not exactly an overnight bag, and nowhere near a large roller suitcase. The ideal pick shouldn’t be too big (you don’t need that many belongings for a few days), but it also shouldn’t be too small (for sufficient room to pack the necessities). In general, you’ll want to look for a bag with a capacity somewhere between 30 and 50 liters to fit everything you’ll need for a short trip. Anything over 50 liters is likely to be larger than the 22 x 14 x 9 inches most domestic airlines allow for carry-ons placed in overhead bins. Anything smaller than 30 liters is generally left to the lightest packers or for overnight trips. If you’d like your weekender bag to double as a personal item on an airplane, keep in mind that underseat space varies widely by airline, but is generally limited to around 18 x 14 x 8 inches, for reference.

With those factors in mind, here are the best weekend bags for a quick two- or three-day trip.

• Best weekend backpack: Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack
• Best weekend tote bag: Lo & Sons Catalina Deluxe Small
• Best convertible duffel pack: Osprey Arcane Duffel Pack
• Best under $100: Herschel Novel Duffle Bag
• Best design-forward duffel: Baboon Go-Bag (Small)
• Best canvas weekender bag: Paravel Weekender
• Best for chronic overpackers: Patagonia Black Hole Duffel Bag 55L
• Best for ultra-light packers: Dagne Dover Landon Carryall Large
• Best for staying organized: Tortuga Backpacks 35L Setout
• Best weekender bag with shoe compartment: Away the Weekender Bag
• Best for photographers: Wandrd Hexad Access Duffel
• Best for campers: Eagle Creek Migrate Duffel 40L
• Best for road-trippers: ForestBound Escape Collection
• Best ecofriendly option: Hamilton Perkins Collection Earth Bag Premium
• Best water-resistant option: Rains Weekend Bag
• Best virtually indestructible option: The North Face Base Camp 50L Duffel

The Allpa 35L Travel Pack comes in “Indigo” (pictured above), “Evergreen,” “Spruce,” and “Black,” and all have a detachable waist belt.

Courtesy of Cotopaxi

Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack

Best weekend backpack.

• Buy now: $200, cotopaxi.com
• Capacity: 35 liters
• Dimensions: 20 x 12 x 8 inches
• Weight: 3 lbs. 8 oz.

There’s a reason the Cotopaxi Allpa 35L Travel Pack is popular for getaways: a carry-on, duffel, and backpack all in one, the bag is an organized packer’s dream, with zippered compartments for laptops, passports, keys, and clothes. Other notable design features include exterior shortcuts to main internal compartments—like the padded laptop sleeve—and “theft-proof webbing,” which lets you tuck in the bag’s zippers so it can’t be opened without you noticing. The bag’s shell is coated with thermoplastic polyurethane, rendering it completely waterproof, but the Allpa also comes with a removable rain cover for an extra layer of protection. —Katherine LaGrave, digital features editor

The Catalina Deluxe comes in “Dove Grey” (pictured above), as well as 10 other color options.

Courtesy of Lo & Sons

Lo & Sons Catalina Deluxe Small

Best weekend tote bag.

• Buy Now: From $158, loandsons.com
• Capacity: 32.2 liters
• Dimensions: 18 x 8.5 x 16 inches
• Weight: 1.9 lbs. (canvas) and 2.4 lbs. (recycled polyester)

The Catalina Deluxe may look like a straightforward tote bag, but it comes with plenty of options to suit your personal preferences. You can choose from three materials (canvas, organic canvas, and recycled polyester) as well as 11 different colors. While both the Catalina Deluxe Small and Large weekender bags are carry-on approved, we prefer the small version for two- to four-day trips. Both bags come with a bottom pocket separate from the main interior for storing shoes (it even comes with an insert that gives the bag more structure and can be removed and wiped down). —Lyndsey Matthews, destination news editor

The Arcane Duffel Pack comes in “Stonewash Black” (pictured above), as well as “Stargazer Blue” and “Haybale Green.”

Courtesy of Osprey

Osprey Arcane Duffel Pack

Best convertible duffel pack.

• Buy now: $130, osprey.com
• Capacity: 30 liters
• Dimensions: 18.5 x 12.2 x 10.63 inches
• Weight: 1.89 lbs.

The Arcane Duffel Pack from Osprey is a tough little tote made with a twill-like recycled polyester fabric, but its clean lines and simple shape feel classy enough to carry just about anywhere—from the office to the tarmac to the great outdoors. And unlike many convertible duffels, it actually looks like a backpack when you’re wearing it as a backpack and it looks like a duffel when you’ve tucked away the backpack straps in favor of the longer, clip-in shoulder strap. It also features a clamshell opening, so you can pack and unpack it like a suitcase. And while some people like lots of bells, whistles, and built-in storage options, I am a minimalist. I like that the Arcane has one large pouch stored beneath an external zipper on the bag’s top. There’s an additional large, mesh pocket under the lid, great for socks or dirty T-shirts, and a padded laptop sleeve for a 15-inch computer against the back of the bag. It’s easy and low-maintenance, but makes me look a lot more put-together than I usually am. —Maggie Fuller, associate digital editor

Herschel Supply Co. offers the Novel Duffle Bag in black, navy, and dark olive.

Courtesy of Nordstrom

Herschel Novel Duffle Bag

Best under $100.

• Buy now: $90, herschel.com
• Capacity: 42.5 liters
• Dimensions: 11.75 x 20.5 x 11 inches
• Weight: 2 lbs.

Herschel Supply Co.’s secret to success is simple design, as evidenced by the Herschel Novel Duffle. The 42.5-liter bag is built with one large internal compartment, plus an external zip shoe compartment so you can keep the rest of your belongings separate and fresh. It features removable padded shoulder straps that can easily be hidden or tightened along the side and fits most airline carry-on size requirements. (The bag is also made from a durable waterproof polyester with a waterproof zip.) —Sarah Buder, assistant digital editor

Go-Bags are sold in loud blue, teal, and orange combinations, but the bags are also offered in black and gray.

Courtesy of Baboon

Baboon Go-Bag (Small)

Best design-forward duffel.

• Buy now: $149, baboontothemoon.com
• Capacity: 40 liters
• Dimensions: 12.5 x 20.5 x 12.5 inches
• Weight: 3.5 lbs.

Baboon’s Go-Bags are as fun to travel with as they are to look at. The design-forward duffels, which are released in limited-run batches, feature vibrant colorways with custom internal prints that are unique to each specific product “drop.” (When one particular Go-Bag color combination is sold out, it’s sold out for good.) With “a 3+ day packing volume designed for weekend getaways,” a waterproof shell, internal and external pockets, plus adjustable straps that can be used to carry the duffel like a backpack, Baboon’s 40-liter Go-Bags aren’t just trendy, they’re practical, too. Oh, and the bags are designed to meet TSA guidelines and fit in airline overhead bins. —S.B.

Paravel Weekender

Best canvas weekender bag.

• Buy now: $295, tourparavel.com
• Capacity: 29.5 liters
• Dimensions: 15 x 8 x 15 inches
• Weight: 2 lbs. 6 oz.

Paravel’s timeless and stylish designs make this cotton canvas weekender bag with leather details a worthwhile investment. Spacious enough to fit two to three days of clothes, a dopp kit, and a 15-inch laptop, this bag comes with a detachable shoulder strap so you can go hands free on the weekends. For longer trips, this bag also includes leather straps that slip over the handle of your rolling suitcase, making it ideal to use as a personal item, too. —L.M.

Patagonia’s Black Hole Duffel is available in a variety of colors, including green, blue, gray, and black.

Courtesy of Patagonia

Patagonia Black Hole Duffel Bag 55L

Best for chronic overpackers.

• Buy now: $139, patagonia.com ; backcountry.com ; rei.com
• Capacity: 55 liters
• Dimensions: 26.7 x 15.7 x 11.8 inches
• Weight: 2 lbs. 9.1 oz.

If you’re looking for a weekend travel bag that is big enough to pack extra gear in for the great outdoors, go with Patagonia’s Black Hole Duffel. The 55-liter bag features a durable water-repellent finish with weather-resistant laminate, padded shoulder straps for easy carrying, plus multiple internal and external pockets with a thick base to protect the bag’s contents. Made by environmentally conscious outdoor gear company Patagonia, the duffel bag is also ecofriendly: It is made from 100 percent recycled polyester fabric, 100 percent recycled polyester lining, and 100 percent recycled nylon webbing. (The same duffel bag is available in a slightly smaller carry-on friendly 40-liter size , too, if you won’t be packing extra gear.) —S.B.

The Landon Carryall comes in “Onyx” (seen here), as well as “Dark Moss,” “Storm,” “Ash Blue,” “Heather Grey,” “Dune,” and several seasonal limited edition colors.

Courtesy of Dagne Dover

Dagne Dover Landon Carryall Large

Best for ultra-light packers.

• Buy now: $185, dagnedover.com
• Capacity: 29 liters
• Dimensions: 16.5 x 9 x 11 inches
• Weight : 2 lbs.

Made with lightweight, hand-washable, and quick-drying neoprene, the Dagne Dover Landon Carryall can take whatever you throw at it each weekend without weighing you down. You can choose from six core colors, including basic black and gray, or more trendy hues of “ash blue” and dusty pink “dune” (look for limited edition color releases each season, too). This bag comes in five different sizes, but the “large” is sized to fit underneath most airplane seats as a personal item and also comes with a dedicated laptop sleeve, exterior phone pocket, and an interior big enough to pack essentials for a two- or three-day trip. If you’re looking for something slightly larger for long weekends, the 42-liter “extra large” bag is also carry-on compliant. —L.M.

The 35L Setout comes in black (seen here) as well as a heather gray option.

Courtesy of Tortuga

Tortuga Backpacks 35L Setout

Best for staying organized.

• Buy now : $179, tortugabackpacks.com
• Capacity : 35 liters
• Dimensions : 21.5 x 13.5 x 7.5 inches
• Weight: 3.4 lbs.

Designed with urban adventures and digital nomads in mind, the Setout collection by Tortuga Backpacks combines the portability of a backpack with the practicality of a suitcase. Unlike a traditional top-opening backpack, the Setout (and all backpacks by Tortuga) unzips on three sides to allow for easy access. Inside, you’ll find dedicated pockets for stashing small travel accessories , separating clothes, and ready access to your laptop to help you keep everything organized. The Setout also stands out for its quality and durability. Its polyester fabric, made from recycled water bottles, is protected with water-resistant, Durable Water Repellent (DWR) coating and made to last years of adventures. Breathable, injection-molded foam and air mesh padding, and removable hip belts allow for comfortable carrying. The line includes two size options, 35 liters and 45 liters (we love the 35-liter as a weekend bag, but both are carry-on friendly), as well as a men’s and women’s fit to ensure the backpack fits comfortably on your hips. —Jessie Beck, SEO manager

The Weekender comes in a natural canvas shade with brown leather details, an all-black version, plus an olive green duffel with black leather accents.

Courtesy of Away

Away the Weekender Bag

Best weekender bag with shoe compartment.

• Buy now: from $225, away.com
• Capacity: 38.7 liters
• Dimensions: 21.7 x 8.7 x 12.6 inches
• Weight: 4.85 lbs. (canvas) and 3.75 lbs. (nylon)

Away’s the Weekender has a 38.7-liter capacity, which is about the same as the company’s small roller suitcase (but significantly more than the Everywhere Bag, which is made to be a personal item that fits underneath your seat instead of a true carry-on). Choose from either a water-resistant nylon or textured cotton canvas material. Both styles come with a padded laptop sleeve that fits up to a 15-inch laptop, a fully lined exterior shoe compartment to keep footwear separate, as well as a detachable padded shoulder strap, and two zippered exterior pockets to keep your phone and other essentials handy. It’s sized to fit in an airplane’s overhead bin, but the bag is also well-suited for road trips, train rides, and other situations where a wheeled suitcase can be inconvenient. —S.B.

Wandrd Hexad Access Duffel

Best for photographers.

• Buy now: $259, wandrd.com
• Capacity: 45 liters
• Dimensions: 9 x 14 x 22 inches
• Weight: 3.9 lbs.

For photographers who don’t want to bring a second gear bag on short three- to five-day trips, Wandrd built this carry-on-sized duffel pack with both layflat, clamshell, and side packing access. On one side you’ll find an open compartment for clothes, while the other side has two side-access compartments so you can grab your camera quickly without unzipping the entire bag. (When you don’t need your camera, the padded camera cubes are removable to make more room for other essentials.) Other highly functional details include a laptop sleeve that fits up to a 16-inch Macbook Pro, an RFID secure pocket for your passport, and an expandable shoe pocket to keep the rest of your gear and clothes clean. —L.M.

The Migrate Duffel 40L comes in “Sahara Yellow” (pictured above), “Arctic Blue,” “Coral Sunset,” and “Jet Black.”

Courtesy of Eagle Creek

Eagle Creek Migrate Duffel 40L

Best for campers.

• Buy now: $79, eaglecreek.com
• Dimensions: 10.25 x 18.5 x 9.5 inches
• Weight: 2 lbs. 1 oz.

Eagle Creek’s carry-on sized Migrate Duffel 40L is truly a bag of all trades. You can carry it like a backpack, a classic duffel, or even an oversized tote thanks to its easily convertible handles. In addition to being made with water-repellent coating that was developed using plastics sourced from landfills in Asia, an internal “storm flap” makes the 40-liter weekend travel bag extra water-resistant—because summertime camping trips sometimes involve toughing those sudden, unexpected rainstorms. —S.B.

Related Camping Checklist: What to Pack for a Comfy Night Under the Stars

The Escape Canvas Weekender is made using beige canvas and vegetable-tanned leather.

Courtesy of ForestBound

ForestBound Escape Weekender

Best for road-trippers.

• Buy now: $199, forestbound.com
• Capacity: 38.5 liters
• Dimensions: 21 x 14 x 8 inches
• Weight: n/a

For those who prefer to support small businesses, ForestBound’s Escape Canvas Weekender bag is a very attractive option. (All ForestBound products are designed, cut, sewn, and shipped from one Massachusetts-based studio.) The Escape bag is built with a large interior pocket for easy storage of essential small items—just enough room to pack for a quick weekend on the road. A lightweight aluminum frame gives the bag structure, while its vegetable-tanned leather exterior base and water-resistant interior bottom panel keep your belongings safe. You can even personalize the cute canvas bag with a custom monogram for $20 extra. —S.B.

The Earth Bag Premium comes in yellow (seen here), as well as red, seafoam green, olive, white, and more.

Courtesy of Hamilton Perkins Collection

Hamilton Perkins Collection Earth Bag Premium

Best ecofriendly option.

• Buy now: $158, hamiltonperkins.com
• Capacity: 36 liters
• Dimensions: 20 x 11 x 10 inches
• Weight: 2.5 lbs.

This two-in-one duffel and backpack is sustainably made using recycled plastic water bottles and pineapple leaf fiber for the exteriors, and repurposed billboard vinyls for the interior lining. The thoughtful travel bags come in different colors from the yellow seen here to bright red and seafoam green as well as subtle shades of olive and white. If you’re an extremely light packer—or looking for a new gym or overnight bag—the 27-liter Earth Bag Lite is made from the same materials and costs only $95. —L.M.

The Rains Weekend Bag comes in navy (pictured above), black, green, gray, beige, as well as shiny black and brown versions.

Courtesy of Rains

Rains Weekend Bag

Best water-resistant option.

• Buy now: $95, us.rains.com
• Capacity: 46 liters
• Dimensions: 13.4 x 23.6 x 9.1 inches
• Weight: 1.2 lbs.

If you’re looking for an option that doesn’t scream “adventure traveler,” this chic water-resistant weekender by Copenhagen-based Rains is ideal for city getaways to drizzly destinations. Made with a waterproof matte outer material in seven different colors, the water-resistant zippers will protect your belongings from a downpour (but won’t keep water out if it’s fully submerged). With one large main compartment and a detachable shoulder strap, this bag is best for minimalists who don’t want to fuss with extra pockets and straps. —L.M.

The North Face Base Camp Duffel is offered in red, blue, green, black, khaki, and other colors.

Courtesy of Backcountry

The North Face Base Camp 50L Duffel

Best virtually indestructible option.

• Buy now: $120, thenorthface.com ; backcountry.com ; rei.com
• Capacity: 50 liters
• Dimensions: 12.8 x 20.87 x 12.8 inches
• Weight: 2 lbs. 11.39 oz.

We fully agree with The North Face’s statement that just because you’re taking a quick trip, it “doesn’t mean that you should settle for luggage that’s going to fall apart.” Its Base Camp 50L Duffel is built with a durable laminate material to protect your belongings from rough luggage carousels at the airport and weather in the wilderness. The bag features a water-resistant top flap to keep elements out, plus exterior mesh pockets and four compression straps to help optimize packing space. The bag also has convertible handles so you can carry it as a duffel or a backpack. —S.B.

The segments in the Matador SEG30 Backpack allow you to separate your belongings by type or by day.

Courtesy of Matador

SEG30 Segmented Backpack by Matador

Best for compartmentalization.

• Buy now: $150, matadorup.com
• Dimensions: 18.5 x 9.5 x 9.5 inches
• Weight: 1.52 lbs.

For travelers who want maximum organization but minimal bulk, the Matador SEG30 beckons. The lightweight, 30-liter backpack includes four segmented compartments that act like built-in packing cubes. As your trip unfolds, use the full-access clamshell zipper to stash larger items like dirty laundry and shoes. Better yet, there’s also a dedicated laptop compartment and zippered water bottle pocket. Another bonus? It’s waterproof (yes, even the zippers are sealed for water resistance). —L.M.

This article originally appeared online in July 2019; it was updated on July 17, 2020, to include current information.

>>Next: The Best Weekend Getaways in the United States

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Weekend Trip Packing List: What To Bring On A 3-Day Trip

Weekend trips seem like they should be the easiest ones to pack for. But they always end up being the hardest. Your weekend trip packing list should be simple. The trip is short, the weather won’t vary much, and you probably know what you’ll do.

However, packing small for a weekend vacation might be difficult. We all tend to pack as much as we can rather than just what we require for a weekend trip. You’ll load your bag or suitcase whether you’re going for a weekend or a month. When you have enough room, you begin to accumulate items you’ll never use, such as an extra pair of shoes or a “just in case” outfit. Your belongings will grow to fill your bag. Stick to a brief weekend trip packing list and a tiny bag to fight this urge.

What should I pack for a 3 day 2 night trip?

Let’s start with a 3-day trip packing checklist for a three-day, two-night trip. The weekend trip packing list below implies.

Choose wisely and pack light.

Today, there are a plethora of excellent travel bags available. It’s essentially a question of personal choice, and the brand’s durability set them apart from the competition. Make sure the one you choose is appropriate for what you’ll be carrying for a weekend trip. We’ve included your travel day (or in-flight) attire in the packing list for clothing.

• 1 pair of shoes
• 3 sets of underwear
• 3 pairs of socks (1-2 pairs if wearing merino wool socks)
• 1 set of pyjamas
• Toiletry bag
• Water bottle
• Phone, charger, and earbuds or headphones
• Book or Kindle

Depending on your plans, at least one “nice” outfit should be considered on a packing list for vacation. When you’re travelling, dressing up—especially if you don’t have to—can make a lovely dinner feel like a special event.

Outfit for a Day of Travel

Especially if you’re flying, the clothes you wear to travel should be the bulkiest of the vacation. Wear your heaviest, bulkiest clothing (trench coat, leather boots) to conserve room in your backpack. If you get too hot during the flight, you may always take off a layer and place it in the overhead bin or beneath the seat in front of you.

The pockets will give additional storage space for your wallet, phone, chapstick, boarding card, and other travel day necessities. The zippers will keep your belongings safe when you go through airport security.

When it comes to packing, shoes are always a challenge. Even on a three-day trip, it’s easy to convince yourself that you need a second pair of shoes. This is a temptation you should avoid. Instead, bring one pair of shoes that you can wear for the entire weekend. Your shoes should be comfy enough to wear all day while looking handsome enough to wear out to dinner. Choose warm, comfortable footwear in the cold. In the summer, sandals or sneakers are ideal. You may always add flip flops for the beach or pool if desired.

Electronics

Avoid overpacking electrical devices. You may leave your work PC at home for such a short excursion. You may also forgo the tablet because you’ll either be driving or taking a short flight. In any case, your flight may be too quick to watch a movie.

For short flights, we suggest using a Kindle as in-flight entertainment. If you want to listen to music or a podcast, you’ll also have your phone and earbuds.

Take only the necessities when it comes to toiletries. Leave it at home if you can live without it or get by with a different brand for a day or two. Choose a hotel or Airbnb that includes basic amenities, such as soap and shampoo, so you don’t have to carry your own.

• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Déodorant, cologne
• Soap, shampoo, and conditioner
• Medicine / Prescription Drugs, if needed
• Contact solution

Importance of Documents

Don’t forget to carry your passport, printed copies of any tickets and reservations you might need, and at least two credit cards with you on your trip.

Undergarments and other essentials

Always bring a pair of underwear with you for each day.

Meet the essentials. Cubes for packing

Packing cubes are the only hack you’ll ever need for the rest of your life if you want to keep your essentials organised.

Consider pooling your resources and sharing the strain of packing with your vacation partners. Is it necessary for you to bring your own sunscreen bottle, or may one person bring a bottle for everyone to share?

If you forget something, simply make an affordable choice when you get to your location. You can bring home leftovers food so that you aren’t being wasteful.

If you are looking for a good weekend backpack to keep all your essentials.

Check out Krimcode’s website and buy yours now. Here are some recommendations:

Krimcode’s smart casual backpack.

For a man with a more personal style, the Krimcode smart casual backpack demonstrates a more formal and sophisticated attitude for your weekend trips. It is ideal for any man who maintains a certain attitude and demeanour without talking about his abilities and unique features. The Krimcode smart casual backpack is ideal for a 3-day trip checklist and for those who never compromise by faithfully maintaining its straightforward and direct-to-the-point style.

Krimcode’s Business Attire Duffel Bag in Blue

Krimcode’s Business Attire Duffel Bag in Blue effortlessly hits the right notes for the gentleman who knows how to create a strong balance between being comfortable and outstandingly formal. It provides a nicer atmosphere, allowing the guy to conclude his presentation on time, pack his suit in this blue duffel, grab his swimming trunks, and head straight to the beach. Its formal style is lightened by the variety of colours, making it appropriate for more informal settings.

A weekender bag will provide you with both room and comfort and can hold your all weekend trip packing list. A weekender bag or duffle bag may assist you in carrying all of your belongings when going for a 3day trip. Your weekender bag will easily contain gadgets, clothing, shoes, laptops, and vital documents. So what are you waiting for visit our website Krimcode.com now….!!!

How To Choose The Best Duffel Bag For Travel

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We Found the Optimal Way to Pack for a 3-Day Trip With Just a ‘Personal Item’

By Gabriella DePinho

Gabriella DePinho is a writer on the discovery team. She has found cheap(ish) things for medicine cabinets, movie nights, and a good night’s sleep.

As a budget traveler, I’m no stranger to sacrificing little luxuries in order to secure cheaper airline tickets. To save a few bucks, I’ve given up legroom, sacrificed picking my seats ahead of time, and flown at less-desirable hours. But the hardest thing to swallow as a frugal flier was not being able to bring a carry-on suitcase with me.

Airlines like Spirit and Frontier (in the United States) and Ryanair (in Europe) are known for their fees for extra bags. But other airlines, including United and JetBlue, have also started to introduce carry-on fees for basic economy tickets on certain flights—in other words, anything that’s not a personal item. (A personal item is the bag that airlines let you shove under the seat in front of you. All airline tickets include this free bag with your ticket, no matter which class you fly, at least for now.)

It’s already hard enough to pack for a whole weekend in a standard carry-on, so squeezing everything into a personal-item bag is even trickier—especially since not all personal items (and standards set by airlines) are created equal. But, in general, the average size of a personal-item bag (or a piece of under-seat luggage) is roughly 18 by 14 by 8 inches. And if you want to make the most of those limited dimensions, Kit Dillon, senior staff writer and Wirecutter travel expert, recommends using a bag that is as rectangular as possible, so it’s easier to slide under the seat. After your bag is packed, however, you still have to make sure that it fits the dimensions outlined by the airline you’re traveling with.

At Wirecutter, we’ve been putting all kinds of luggage, backpacks, and packing solutions to the test in real-world travel environments for at least a decade now. And we’ve spent lots of time thinking about how much can be packed into each bag we test. We’ve thoroughly tested packing cubes, and we’ve investigated ways to maximize space while packing. I set out to find personal-item bags to pack for a weekend, based on Wirecutter’s bag and packing recommendations. I also attempted to fit the same amount of clothes and toiletries into two personal-item bags, using a variety of packing methods and hacks. It turns out that with the right packing method, you can take a lot with you, but this requires a packing list—as well as a willingness to keep that list short.

The bags I picked and packed

We have a guide to personal-item bags , with four rigorously tested picks. I decided to test Away’s The Everywhere Bag, one of our sleek-looking personal-item recommendations , because our staffers found that it could work for an overnight trip. So I wanted to see if it could work for a multi-day trip. This bag was also one of the more affordable recommendations, so a budget traveler might consider buying it if it would save them money on multiple trips.

A backpack is another common personal-item bag, especially for those looking to use what they already have. (In fact, the first time I had to travel with just a personal item, I relied on an old-school backpack that sort of, kind of , got the job done.) Our carry-on backpack picks are too large to be used as a personal item, so I also tested the Patagonia Refugio Daypack 26L , from our guide to the best backpack for students . Its dimensions are in line with most airlines’ personal-item-bag measurement restrictions , and it’s something that a student or a fellow budget traveler might already have lying around.

What I packed

To put these two bags to the test, I packed what I’d bring on a two-night, three-day weekend trip with only a personal item. I came up with a hypothetical packing list as I planned for an ideal, two- or three-day trip to a warm destination in the summer. I tried to be practical, planning my outfits and packing items I could re-wear or mix and match. I also planned for a few “if” scenarios, like if it got cold at night or if I found myself going out to eat at a nicer restaurant. I cut down my toiletries to just the essentials and assumed my accommodations would have a towel available to me. This list was also designed with the idea that I’d wear chunky shoes or a light jacket on the flight, so I didn’t have to waste space in my bag.

We packed, unpacked, and re-packed each bag four times, trying out different packing methods. We also took care not to overpack a bag, so that it wasn’t too bulky to be squeezed under an airline seat. To test the bags’ height and bulkiness after packing, I checked their dimensions with a tape measure. I also applied pressure to each bag, to see whether I could squish it down further to mimic stuffing it under a seat.

Packing method 1: packing cubes

We folded, rolled, and packed as many items as possible into our top-pick packing cubes , the Eagle Creek Pack-It Reveal Cube Set . The cardigan, jeans, sandals, cross-body bag, wallet, and compression sack did not fit into the packing cubes. But we still attempted to add these items into the bag after the cubes were packed.

Method 2: compression sack and packing cubes

We squeezed as much as possible into our staff-favorite compression sack , the Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil Compression Sack . We kept the undergarments in the extra-small packing cube, and we used the medium-size cube to hold the jeans, dopp kit, and a pair of shorts. The sandals, hairbrush, and cross-body bag did not fit into either compressible option.

Method 3: compression sack

I also tried using the compression sack as the main compression option. I kept the undergarments in the extra-small packing cube and used a clear, smaller bag as a toiletry kit, instead of the regular-size dopp kit. In the end, the difference in how much I packed with method two and method three was fairly insignificant—you’re probably better off using either the compression sack or the packing cubes, but not both together.

Method 4: minimal to no compression

Keeping only the undergarments in the extra-small packing cube, I folded or rolled the rest of the packing list and fit those items into the bags to the best of my ability.

Away’s The Everywhere Bag is a true personal item

In our guide to under-seat luggage, Kit wrote that Away’s The Everywhere Bag could be used as an overnight bag. And when I talked with him about it, he told me he imagined someone would use it to hold one change of clothes and basic toiletries. So I went into testing with the preconceived notion that a bag this sleek, with this many internal pockets, could not possibly be big enough for a weekend trip. I was pleased to find I was wrong.

Away The Everywhere Bag

A hold-all bag meant to attach to your carry-on.

This bag’s large interior pocket and laptop sleeve can be used to hold a surprising number of essentials. As a shoulder-carry bag, it might get a little heavy if you overpack.

Buying Options

Away’s The Everywhere Bag fit the most during the packing-cube test, but it was a tight squeeze. When packing with the packing cubes, I was able to fit nearly everything on my list, except for the jeans and sweater (which could easily be removed from the packing list or worn while in transit). When I packed the bag this way, it bulged in ways that could make it hard to fit under an airline seat with narrower or shorter measurements. Ultimately, however, this bag could work surprisingly well for airlines with more-forgiving under-seat measurements.

The compression sack fit a significant amount, but it wasted space in the bag. Using the stuff sack, I was missing the jeans, hairbrush, and cross-body bag, and I had to use the slimmed-down version of my toiletry kit. This packing method ended up wasting space in the bag—since the smaller pocket (designed to be a laptop pocket) went completely unused—and the bag bulged to the sides a little too much.

Packing with no compressible items worked the best, as did a slimmed-down packing list. Packing the bag without using any form of compression was the most convenient method. I had to cut back on toiletries significantly, and I had to leave the bulky items behind or make a plan to wear them on the plane. But when packed this way, the bag was at its slimmest, the lightest to carry, and the easiest to compress under a narrow seat.

The bag is sturdy. The bag’s nylon, waterproof outer shell felt thicker and less flexible than the Patagonia bag’s shell—and it also felt more luxurious. Though it seems sturdy and tough enough to protect your things, this bag might be harder to fit under an airline seat when packed to its maximum capacity.

It isn’t comfortable to carry on its own when it’s filled to the brim. The Everywhere Bag surprised me with how much it could hold, but just because it can hold a lot, that doesn’t mean you should stuff that much in it. Due to this bag’s shoulder-carry design (short, looped straps and a detachable padded shoulder strap for cross-body wear), you need to be mindful of how heavy it gets; this bag does not offer the same ergonomic, weight-distributing features as the Patagonia backpack. When it’s paired with a rolling bag, you can use the trolley sleeve, but without the trolley sleeve, you have to be able to sling the bag over your shoulder with ease.

After pushing this bag to its limits, we found that it definitely lived up to Kit’s claim of being good for an overnight trip. And if you’re willing to pack very light, it could possibly work for a two-night trip, too.

This backpack packs it all—and then some

Though we don’t recommend any backpacks as a personal item in our guide, Kit encouraged me to give a backpack a try. Our carry-on backpack picks don’t meet personal-item dimensions, so I picked a backpack we recommend for students . I went into testing assuming—and hoping—that when it was packed smartly, this backpack could be the ideal bag for personal-item-only travel. It turns out that this backpack worked even better than I’d hoped it would.

Patagonia Refugio Daypack 26L

Ergonomic hero.

With its padded mesh straps and back panels, this sporty-looking pack makes heavy loads feel lighter and comfier to carry. This bag doesn’t have a lot of interior organization, which is handy when you’re packing for a trip.

When packing the Patagonia backpack, I put my pair of sandals at the bottom of the main compartment every time. From there I arranged and rearranged all of the items I wanted to pack. Since this bag lacks a lot of interior zippers and pockets, the main compartment is spacious and can be packed almost like a suitcase. Its contoured shoulder straps and padded back panels are designed to be ergonomically comfortable, and the bag has a removable sternum strap, to help stabilize it on your body while taking pressure off your spine.

Packing cubes and a roomy backpack are a perfect match. I was able to fit everything on the packing list inside the bag, and I even had room to spare. In the main compartment, I was able to pack the full-size dopp kit, sandals, all of the packing cubes, and the jeans and sweater (which did not fit into the cubes).

The exterior pocket allowed me to pack something extra. There’s a roomy pocket on the face of the pack that opens vertically, and I was able to use that space to stash my wallet, as well as a paperback book. When I set out to pack in just a personal-item bag, I accepted that I wouldn’t be able to fit any sort of entertainment. Since everything was so well compressed in the packing cubes, I didn’t have to use the outer pocket as a key packing compartment, so I had room for the book.

Removing the padded laptop sleeve freed up more space. Though the laptop compartment went mostly unused in every test, removing the padded laptop sleeve allowed me to fit more in the main compartment. I used the laptop compartment to slip in the extra, completely flat cross-body bag (but it could have fit in the outer pocket if needed).

The compression sack worked, but not as well. When I used the compression sack as the main compressing device, I was still able to fit everything. But the bag was bulkier and would likely have been harder to squeeze under a seat, especially on an airline with shorter height or narrower width measurements. This meant I had to cut back on toiletries. In a clear plastic bag, I packed the toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, lens wipes, and medication.

Packing the bag without any compression made for a tight squeeze, but it could still work. Without using packing cubes or a compression sack, I was still able to fit the entire packing list, but the contents didn’t fit as nicely. The hairbrush did not fit in the main compartment; if I’d insisted on keeping it, it probably would’ve had to sit in a side pocket meant for a water bottle. I would have to leave the book behind (which is fine), and I would probably opt to use a slimmed-down toiletry kit.

The bag is spacious and durable. Part of what stood out about this bag’s performance in testing was how roomy the main compartment was and how tough the bag felt. The outer shell is made from abrasion- and water-resistant recycled polyester. So while the shell is light and thin, it still feels durable. Therefore I believe this bag can handle being squashed under a tight airline seat, and it feels like it was meant for the task.

Pack lighter, regardless of which bag you use

Traveling with just one bag will keep you unburdened—moving through the airport with only a bag slung over your shoulder can help you breeze through security. But you’ll need to be strategic about your packing list and the compromises you’re willing to make. The truth is, the easiest way to pack in a smaller bag is to pack fewer things.

“It all comes down to how much you’re packing,” Kit said. “If you’re trying to use tricks, then you’ve overpacked already.” And no amount of folding, rolling, twisting, or squeezing will let you fit a substantial amount more in the same amount of space.

It’s important to note that packing this light is a lot easier during the summer. If you’re traveling in the winter, it might be worth it to pay that extra $75 for the included carry-on, so you can pack what you need to stay warm and safe.

This article was edited by Elissa Sanci, Catherine Kast and Maxine Builder.

Meet your guide

Gabriella DePinho

Gabriella DePinho is an updates writer at Wirecutter. Previously, she worked at NBC News writing about deals and product launches. She loves working in product recommendation but personally hates shopping—and she knows that doesn’t make sense.

Mentioned above

• The Waterfield Air Porter Carry-On Bag is a great bag for tech-carrying travelers to slide under an airplane seat. We also have options for other travelers. The Best Underseat Luggage and Personal-Item Bags  
• The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L is our backpack pick for most travelers. We also have picks for other travelers, including those who want to carry a bit more. The Best Carry-On Travel Backpacks  
• Our top backpack picks for the 2024-2025 school year include a sporty-looking ergonomic pack, a bag that’s nostalgic and timeless, and a polished workhorse. The Best Backpacks for College and High School Students  
• After researching and traveling with packing cubes for more than five years, the Eagle Creek Pack-It Reveal Cube Set is what we keep in our luggage. The Best Packing Cubes  

Further reading

I Took 5 Trips in 6 Months. My Go-To Weekender Bag Was This Surprisingly Spacious Backpack.

by Elissa Sanci

Struggling to pack for your weekend away? The Cotopaxi Allpa 35L fits so much more than you’d expect.

The 36 Best Gifts for Frequent Travelers

by Samantha Schoech

We’ve put together a selection of fun, useful and clever gifts for that person who always has a trip planned.

The Best Gear for Travel

by Wirecutter Staff

We put in another year and tens of thousands more miles of travel to test the best travel gear—and we stand by last year’s choices alongside a few new picks.

Wirecutter’s Favorite Bags, Totes, Backpacks and Carryalls

by Truth Headlam

Whether you’re going to school, work, the gym, the store, or on vacay, you need a bag. Here’s the Wirecutter-recommended carrying gear we love most.

17 Top 3-Day Packing List Items for 2024 + What to Wear & NOT to Bring

Travel-planning always feels like a balancing act, especially for a short trip. Every decision–from where to go, what to pack, and what to do–carries extra importance. Whether you’re visiting friends over a long weekend, venturing to a secluded cabin, or hitting famous big-city sights, it’s important to prepare so you can make the most of your limited time.

We’ve assembled the ultimate guide to help you master every 3-day getaway, replete with an essential 3-day trip packing list, what to wear on a 3-day trip , what NOT to bring and an FAQ that covers everything from travel methods to destination.

What to Pack for a 3-day Trip – 17 Essentials

1. 2 piece luggage set.

When you’re heading out on a short trip, it’s crucial to get off on the right foot with functional luggage. This 2-piece set is ideal for a 3-day trip! If you opt for flying, the spinner suitcase makes a lightweight carry-on, and you can bring the matching tote as your personal item. The interior of both the suitcase and tote are outfitted with plenty of pockets for organized packing.

View on Amazon.com ➜

2. Packing Cubes

No matter how many compartments your luggage has, you’ll significantly up your organization when you invest in packing cubes. This stackable set is our favorite, coming with a set of five assorted-size cubes and two laundry bags. There’s even a slot where you can label the contents of each cube!

3. Virtual Private Network (VPN)

Security is crucial, even over a 3-day trip! When you invest in a good VPN, you can dodge the pitfalls of cyber corruption and ensure that all your information is protected. Since having sensitive information stolen during our travels, we always secure our network with a VPN . NordVPN is our trusted provider, and you’ll be able to connect to wifi without worry.

View NordVPN.com Options ➜

4. Neck Wallet

Whether you’re navigating an airport or wandering a new city, it’s important to have a secure way to carry your essential cards, identification, and other documents. This adjustable neck wallet is the perfect solution; not only is it outfitted with RFID protection, but it includes multiple zippered pockets for easy organization.

5. Noise Cancelling Headphones

Wireless, comfortable, and noise-cancelling–what more could you want in a set of headphones? We find it essential to bring a good pair on any trip, whether you’ll be utilizing them during a car ride or tuning out passengers on a long flight. This model is one of our favorites, featuring ear-cushioning, a built-in microphone, and an easy-fold design.

6. Windproof Travel Umbrella

No matter your destination, you can never be totally sure when inclement weather will strike, but this travel umbrella provides assurance; this is our go-to choice for the road and home. It folds up small to fit unobtrusively in your car or luggage, unfurls with the click of a button, and is wind-resistant, providing more coverage than similar models.

Once you’ve reached your destination, it can be burdensome to bring a purse or bag around with you. This daypack is a perfect solution for both men and women! This bag folds into itself for simple storage, and features multiple zippered pockets to organize everything you need–then slip it over your shoulders!

8. Travel Towel

Regardless of the nature of your 3-day trip, it’s wise to equip yourself with a towel. This versatile quick-dry option comes in multiple sizes: use it while camping, after swimming, at your accommodation, or even on the beach. It packs easily in your luggage or daypack to carry around any destination!

9. Sleeping Bag

If your trip involves camping, a cabin, or even sleeping on a friend’s floor, you’ll probably want to bring a sleeping bag! This 3-season option is waterproof, folds and compresses for easy packing, and features a zippered bottom to release your feet, as well as a drawstring top to keep your head warm in cold weather.

10. Waterproof Phone Case

There’s nothing more inconvenient while traveling than phone damage, particularly on a short trip. Whether you’re navigating in a drizzle, spending some time near the water, or clumsy-fingered, this waterproof phone case should eliminate any concerns (and save you the headache of trying to track down a phone repair service). The case also guards against snow and dirt, ensuring protection in any activity!

11. Unisex Windbreaker

We’ve all made the mistake of neglecting to pack a good jacket while traveling, and sometimes utility is more important than style! On a 3-day trip, it’s worth bringing a windbreaker to guard against this weather. This pullover model is hooded, water-resistant, and has both a zippered and open front pocket. Tuck this in your luggage, and rest assured that you’ll be prepared for all types of weather!

12. Instant Coffee

Caffeine-lovers will understand the pain of not having access to coffee. On a 3-day trip, getting your daily brew can be a bit of a gamble; unless you build it into your plans, stopping for a coffee can cut into valuable time, and it’s not worth purchasing a whole bag of grounds for such a short trip. If you’re someone who needs caffeine, bring instant packets along! They’re convenient, plus you’ll save both time and money.

13. Portable Speaker

Although a portable speaker may not seem like an obvious choice, having the option can enhance your trip! This wireless, outdoor-friendly option has simple controls and a long battery life. A good portable speaker can give any accommodation a homey touch; if you’re planning to make your own meals, it’s great for playing your preferred soundtrack, and you can also connect it to your laptop to decompress with a movie.

14. Easy Pack Travel Pillow

Much like a sleeping bag, it’s always a good idea to bring your own pillow while traveling–especially if you’ll be spending your nights on a floor or in a campground. This easy-pack, memory-foam pillow is designed for traveling; it compresses into a small bag and offers ample neck support.

15. Sleeping Mask

When you’re going away for a short spell, it’s important that you get good sleep. Otherwise, you risk wandering around your destination in a fog! This adjustable sleeping mask solves any potential problems. It’s made of memory foam for cloudlike comfort and is contoured to fit snugly and block out light.

16. White Noise Machine

A white noise machine may also increase your chances of getting some shuteye! Whether you’re drowning out background noise in a hostel or adding auditory texture in a secluded accommodation, it’s worth the investment! This portable model features 26 sounds with multiple volume levels, comes with a headphone jack, and is charged through USB. It also includes a programmable auto-shutoff so you don’t run down the battery!

17. Instant Camera

Although it’s a bit more frivolous than some other items, we’ve found that an instant camera is a great way to document your travels! Although smartphones take effortless photos, there’s something so special about holding a printed image. This model is small, easy to bring along, and takes aesthetically-pleasing, pocket-size photos so you can bring back more tangible relics from your trip!

Other 3-day packing list items not to forget

• Lifestraw Water Bottle
• Sunglasses Women
• Sunglasses Men
• Sunglasses Case
• Travel-size sunscreen
• Travel Size Lotion
• Travel Toothbrush Kit
• Sanitizing Wipes
• Small Makeup Bag
• First-Aid Kit
• Facial Wipes
• Travel Size Deodorant
• Swimsuit Women
• Swimsuit Men
• Travel Lamp
• Travel Shoes Bags
• Keychain Bottle Opener
• Pepper Spray
• Kindle Paperwhite
• Kindle Case
• Natural Travel Size Bug Spray
• Waterproof Smart Watch
• Travel-Size Hand Sanitizer
• Heel Cushion Inserts
• Lipstick-sized Portable Charger
• RFID Blocking Wallet

What to wear on your 3-day trip

On a three-day trip, women should supplement activity-appropriate outfits with neutral, comfortable staple pieces: plain tops with detail, a casual dress, solid-color bottoms (whether you’re a pant, skirt, or shorts person), and complementary accessories. By prioritizing a staple outfit and choosing mix-and-match pieces, you’ll have plenty of outfits for a variety of scenarios. If, for instance, you’re whisked off for a bachelorette weekend, it’s essential to have an outfit for your big night out, which will take up valuable luggage real estate; you’ll want to make sure all the other clothing you pack can be combined as needed.

Like women, men also need to make sure they have the appropriate clothing for the occasion of their travel. After all the essentials have been packed, you can then turn your attention to other articles of clothing: button-down shirts with adaptable prints, neutral pants to pair with tops, and shoes that complement a range of colors. A short trip might not be the time to pack your favorite loudly-patterned shirt, but you can certainly dress an outfit up with smaller, easy-to-pack accessories.

What NOT to bring on your 3-day trip

1. don't bring unnecessary extras or multiples:.

When preparing for travel, it’s tempting to pack multiples of an item, or things that you think you might use. This just adds to clutter, though, which is especially excessive on a short trip. When you’re packing for a 3-day getaway, skip the duplicates and nonessentials; you’ll be glad you did.

2. DON'T PACK Full-size toiletries:

When you’re going away for such a short time, there’s no need to burden your luggage with full-size toiletries. Purchase travel-size toiletries or–if you’re a fan of sustainability and committed to brands–invest in small toiletry containers and fill them yourself. It’ll save you time, space, and hassle!

3. DON'T TAKE Books, magazines, etc:

An e-Reader is a great investment, especially if you travel frequently! You can load a digital device with all your favorite entertainment and leave more room in your luggage for essentials.

4. DON'T BRING Multiple pairs of shoes:

When you’re traveling for a short spell, it’s best to avoid lugging around multiple pairs of shoes–you likely won’t get to wear them all! Instead, choose two or three pairs that can be worn with all of the clothing you pack.

5. DON'T PACK Non-prescription medication:

For a 3-day trip, you don’t need non-prescription medication by the bottle. If you want to cover your bases with over-the-counter medicines, invest in some travel-size pill containers and pack just what you need.

• When you’re taking a short trip, you’ll save yourself a lot of time choosing outfits, rifling through your suitcase, or schlepping around luggage when you streamline your wardrobe. Stay away from bold or clashing prints and patterns and select pieces that can be paired easily.
• Jewelry-enthusiasts, beware: simplicity is key. It’s overkill to bring a bunch of necklaces, bracelets, earrings, or rings on a short trip. Stick to a few items or frequent favorites that will allow you to jazz up an outfit. It’s also worth noting that, depending on your plans, jewelry may not be necessary at all.
• Unless your destination includes a wedding or black-tie event, stay away from packing an overly formal outfit. You’ll likely never wear it, and it’s far simpler to choose reliable, diverse clothing that you can dress up with accessoires.

FAQs for a 3-day trip

1. if i’m taking a 3-day trip, how should i get there.

a.) Whether you drive, fly, or take public transportation depends on your preferences, budget, and the amount of time you’re willing to devote to distance traveling.

b.) If you opt for driving, it’s easy to build some road-trip fun into your destination; do some research for landmark stop-offs or delicious eateries to hit up along the way! It will cut into your time to get to your destination, but it’ll be worth it.

c.) Flying, while usually more expensive than gas, offers the benefit of convenience and less time. You’ll reach your destination without having to worry about following directions, and you’ll get there significantly faster.

d.) Public transportation, like busses and trains, tend to take longer than other options but also run significantly cheaper, making them a great choice for those who need to keep their 3-day trip budget-friendly. As a bonus, taking public transportation will free up time for any last-minute tasks to cross off your list, so you can fully enjoy your time once you arrive.

2. Where should I go on a 3-day trip?

If you have a window of time to take a short trip but no destination, you have far more choices than you realize! If you’re wanting a whirlwind 72 hours, visit a large U.S. city like New York, Boston, Philadelphia, San Francisco, or Seattle–to name a few–and see the sights!

If you’re looking to escape the drone and din of packed places, spend a few days reenergizing in the mountains, on a lake, or even on a farm. Northern Michigan, Maine, Vermont, Tennessee, or Kentucky are a handful of many great states for secluded getaways.

3. Where can I find a reputable place to stay?

Although Airbnb seems as popular as ever, we’re wary of the company after having some bad experiences. In fact, we analyzed over 1,000 AirBnB horror stories and concluded that there’s no way to guarantee an AirBnb is safe. So, what to do when you need a reputable place to stay?

If you’d rather not turn to Airbnb but want the same cozy comfort, look into established, well-reviewed bed and breakfasts. Locally-owned and operated accommodations have a reputation to maintain, and they offer a marriage of professionalism and comfort. Otherwise, you can opt for simplicity, and book a hotel.

4. What should I do?

The most important thing for a short trip–whether you’re striking out on your own, visiting friends, or seeing family–is to plan well. If you don’t have at least some idea of what you’ll be doing before you arrive, you’ll waste unnecessary time debating your options instead of getting out to see things. Not every minute of your day needs to be planned, but it’s prudent to have a general idea of what you’ll do. Moreover, don’t give in to temptation and search out the same activities for every destination. Do your research to figure out what makes your destination unique, and structure at least a few of your activities around that to get a genuine feel for the place.

5. How much should I pack for such a short trip?

The most important thing to remember: pack light, and pack simple. You don’t need to be lugging heavy suitcases around your destination; stick to a maximum of two bags that are easy to tote. Organize your suitcase with packing cubes, which will save you time grabbing what you need.

6. If I travel by plane, how should I adjust my packing?

If you’re going to be traveling by plane for your 3-day trip, don’t pack anything more than a carry-on–a checked bag shouldn’t be necessary. At the airport, make sure that you follow TSA carry-on guidelines. Don’t bring liquids in containers larger than 3.4 ounces, make sure all containers fit inside a clear, quart-size Ziploc bag, and pack your electronics so they can be easily removed while going through security.

7. How can I make my trip budget-friendly?

Traveling on a budget isn’t always straightforward, but it’s very possible! The most important thing is to research ahead of time to find free or low-cost alternatives for your favorite activities.

a.) Eating Out: when you’re eating out, opt for local food trucks at least a few times–you’ll support small businesses and get great meals with options that tend to run cheaper than dine-in. You’ll also be able to enjoy the fresh air while people-watching, which is always fun in a new locale!

b.) Recreation: If you have the right mindset, you’re guaranteed to find hidden gems anywhere! When visiting a rural area, take advantage of the free nature; go for walks and hikes, picnic, and–if you have the right setup–enjoy evening campfires and games. When you’re in the city, do some research on the locals’ favorite parks and tour the urban greenery. There are plenty more options as well: if you’re interested in museums but don’t want to shell out the full price, see if they offer discounts or designated free hours; make a list of unique stores to visit and do some window-shopping; or wander the downtown to get a feel for the place.

c.) Events: Whether a parade, carnival, festival, or special market, there are often free events that you can check out! Do some research, and turn to social media to see if events are scheduled around your destination at the time of your visit.

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Packing List for a Weekend: How to Pack For a 3-Day Trip

Everyone deserves a vacation to relax and unwind. However, not everyone has the luxury of taking a whole week off—so just a weekend getaway will suffice. A three day trip, or even just a night, is a fun and exciting way to break up your summer—no need to feel stressed out or guilty, it is time to indulge.

Depending on the purpose of your trip, whether it’s to take in some new scenery, nurture your artistic sensibilities, escape a polluted urban atmosphere, or just break away from the norm, you will need to be prepared. Packing for a weekend trip can be tricky, but the best way to be ready to roll when the weekend comes around is to put together an itinerary. This way, you are less likely to end up disappointed with how you spent this brief amount of time.

But what exactly do you pack in your bag? Rothy’s here to help. Follow these tips to make sure your trip goes smoothly.

Tips to Help You Pack For a Weekend

Once you have a good idea of your plans for the weekend, it’s time to put together a packing list. Packing lists started well in advance of the trip will likely be the most representative of all you would like to accomplish, even if that is sleeping all day, due to the additional time spent contemplating the entire journey.

If you leave on Friday, you will need enough clothes for approximately three days and two nights—this should be your starting point when you are planning your trip. When it comes to clothing, you don’t need to overdo it. Especially if you’re trying to fit everything into one bag. We recommend bringing one pair of very comfortable and versatile shoes, such as The Driver . Pack three outfits, three pairs of underwear (an extra pair or two never hurts), one set of pajamas and three pairs of socks.

If you’re planning on going out to dinner at least once on your trip, consider bringing an additional outfit that is better suited for a restaurant than your typical comfortable clothes. However, if you are struggling to decide which outfit to bring and are starting to feel that you are overpacking, consider rolling your clothes before putting them into your suitcase. Another option is to invest in packing cubes, which not only help you fit more into your bag but they also help you stay organized once you arrive.

What should you leave at home?

The best packers understand what they should or shouldn’t leave at home when trying to fit more things in your suitcase. If you are staying at a hotel, leave the shampoo and conditioner at home. If you run out while you’re there, simply go to the front desk and ask for a few more of those travel sized bottles. Hotels also usually provide hairdryers as well, so feel free to leave yours at home to free up more space.

Toiletries are some of the most forgotten things when it comes to packing for a trip. Check out this list of items and check them off as you pack to make sure nothing is left behind:

• Prescription medications
• Hair care products
• Perfume/cologne
• Phone charger

After you’ve packed all your essentials—i.e. your clothes, shoes and toiletries—and you still have more space in your bag, you can start packing miscellaneous items. Depending on the goal of your trip, these items may change. Here’s a list of optional items that may make your three day vacation a little more comfortable.

Miscellaneous Items

• Book (or mobile e-reader)
• Refillable water bottle
• Pillow from home
• Blanket from home
• Rain jacket

Another factor to consider is what type of environment you are traveling to. Is this a beach vacation or a mountain getaway? Do you plan on sitting by a pool for hours on end or are you going to lace up your sneakers and hike up a mountain? Where you are going and what you have planned should dictate the other types of items you are bringing. If you are going to the beach, you will need a pair of sandals. If it’s going to be chilly where you’re going, don’t forget to pack warmer clothes. Review the following list of items before you zip up your bag for good!

Summer Getaway

• Running or hiking shoes
• Bathing suit
• Beach towel

Winter Trip

• Jacket or coat
• Thick socks

Long weekend

• Additional outfit
• Additional pair of socks
• Additional evening outfit

Best Bags For Your Getaway Trips

Rothy’s Weekender bag is a great option when packing for a trip as it is made for this exact instance, with quality compartments for different types of belongings made sturdy enough to fit everything you need. It fits several days of clothing, toiletries, and accessories in the main compartment, and optional colors include camel and black.

The best part about the Weekender bag is that once you’re at your final location (whether it be a hotel, Airbnb or a friend's house) it can be emptied out and used as a lightweight beach bag or tote. It also has a detachable strap and you can use it as an activity bag on walking tours and for hiking.

A Rothy’s Mini Handbag is perfect for a day trip due to its compact yet roomy size. The Piano Keys Mini, for example, in ivory, black, and light camel, somewhat resembles a work of art and straps on for activities and sporting all day. It is also spiffy enough for evening activities.

Many frequent travelers pack only as much as they can fit inside a carry-on bag and view this as a way to beat the system. And, of course, waiting for baggage claim, worrying about one's possessions, and paying fees can be a serious downer. It also makes sense then to pare down to carry-on baggage only when traveling on a very short flight as part of an overnight trip.

For those overnight trips, Rothy’s has you covered with The Overnighter , a bag that has an adjustable, detachable strap and top handles. And if you’re flying somewhere, you can stow it under the seat in front of you or in the overhead bin of most airlines.

However, if you do plan on checking your baggage, remember there are some items that are safer on your carry-on or on your person.

Final Notes

The ultimate packing list will coincide with a scheduled itinerary where each item packed directly correlates with the trip’s activities. It's also a good idea to try and begin your weekend trip packing list as far in advance as possible as a way to first record and to ensure participation in all of the activities you want, which will certainly help with deciding what to pack. And as the trip plans evolve, you reduce the chance of being caught out while you're away.

Weekend trips are a necessary part of living a healthy and fulfilling life. Get the most out of your trip and reference a packing list before you head out. And, worst case scenario, if you forget something you can just purchase it when you get there! The most important thing to remember is to actually use the time away from home to relax.

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• Travel Tips

I Take 3-day Trips With Only a Backpack — Here's Exactly How I Pack

How a professional travel writer packs for three-day trips with only a backpack.

Getty Images

Long-weekend getaways are the gift that keeps on giving, but airlines that charge exuberant carry-on fees are anything but. In the Basic Economy era, navigating the world of getting away with just a personal item is becoming increasingly more useful.

I’ve been traveling with just a carry-on for many years and have mastered the art of making the most out of the space offered by a simple backpack. Follow the eight steps below, and you’ll be on your way to doing the same in no time. This is a blueprint of how I personally make sure all of my bases are covered when getting out of town for a long weekend, though swaps and personal tweaks are absolutely encouraged. 

Step 1: The Backpack 

Vicki Denig/Travel + Leisure

For those who travel frequently, investing in a good backpack is key. Last year, I treated myself to this Tumi Voyageur black leather backpack around the holidays, though rest assured, any average-sized backpack will do here. I personally recommend looking for one that has some form of front and/or side pockets (my Tumi has both), as well as a separate zipper slot for your laptop or tablet. The inside here is pretty standard, and while there is an interior back section that can close off by zipper, I only really use that part of the bag to store my passport, so I can keep it handy.

Step 2: The Clothes  

Clothing is by far the biggest hurdle when packing for three days and definitely promises to take up the most space in your backpack. Enter: the packing cube , the higher power’s saving grace to compact travel. A key trick here is to wear what you’ll wear on the first day on the plane, as well as layer up with any additional items. This leaves you with just two days to pack for. That means three pairs of undergarments and three pairs of socks. I then add a bathing suit (optional), pajamas, two t-shirts, two pairs of shorts or pants, and even two workout outfits (again, optional). 

Many of these items can be repurposed, too. For example, t-shirts from the day prior can be worn for a workout the next day (they’re dirty anyway), and designated gym shorts can be used as a quick bathing suit cover-up before wearing them to work out. 

Step 3: The Liquid Toiletries 

Perhaps a hot take, but I tend to keep the liquid toiletries bag as simple as possible, mostly because the majority of hotels will have these items on hand anyway, and you can often quickly purchase your preferred brand of travel-size items when you land. I also stick with a clear ziplock bag over a cute toiletry bag, which expedites things at security.

I pack travel-sized shampoo, conditioner, lotion, and bodywash, as well as a vitamin-C oil (feel free to add another small skin care product or two to this bag), toothpaste, lip balm, and a teeth whitening pen. I also have two mini-sized perfumes in here.

Step 4: The Miscellaneous Bag 

I like to think of my backpack’s miscellaneous bag as equivalent to my kitchen’s junk drawer; it’s loaded with a bunch of random things, though it always seems to pull through when the need for something obscure arises. Of course, seeing as we’re dealing with minimal space here, the contents of the ‘junk drawer’ bag will naturally be more dialed back, as every bit of space within the 72-hour travel backpack counts. 

For me, miscellaneous-yet-essential items look like the following: three instant coffee packets, earplugs, a set of tweezers, a few tampons, a handful of Band-Aids, two pens, a toothbrush, a little bag for jewelry, a small change purse for local currency, a compact mirror, two eye masks (yes, I’m insane), hair ties, prescription medication, allergy meds, sleeping meds, a razor, hair clips, a few hair ties, glasses, and a converter. Again, these are totally subjective, but should you follow this section exactly as written, you’ll notice there’s still a bit of extra room for you to throw some additional smaller items in there.

Step 5: The Wires 

For those looking to stay connected while on the road, ensuring that you’ve got all of the right wires in place is key. For me, this looks like my computer charger, a lightning iPhone cable, a USB cable (specifically for airplane charging, as most are not yet equipped for newer iPhone chargers), and the USB charger for my portable battery — as well as the portable battery, of course. You can throw a phone charger wall brick in here, too, though I tend to just plug my lightning cable into my laptop, then connect the laptop to the wall. I also always bring a spare pair of old-school headphones, just in the unfortunate case that my airpods are dead. 

Step 6: The Random Essentials 

Random essentials are things that don’t necessarily fit in your miscellaneous bag, though are necessary items nonetheless. For me, this looks like my laptop, something to read (magazines are clutch here), my keys, airpods, and sunglasses. My sunglasses holder also has a bit of room for a few additional cards I don't keep in my wallet.

Step 7: The Assembly

The assembly is a bit like tetris, but rest assured, it’ doesn't take too long. Start with your packing cube of clothes and place that in first. Next, be sure to put your passport somewhere in a designated section of your backpack; for me, it’s that back zipper area. Next, add the toiletry bag, wire bag, and miscellaneous bag on top of the clothing cube. Place your laptop/tablet and reading material in the back zipper pocket. Add your keys, airpods, wallet, and water bottle to the side pockets, or simply use the pockets of whatever you’re wearing. 

Step 8: Additional Items

The outfit you wear when you leave the house on your first day will be your outfit for day one — as well as your key to getting away with a few additional items. Generally, my go-to travel day/first day outfit is a pair of jeans, a plain white t-shirt, and a jacket (depending on the season). I also always bring a sweatshirt and either a) wear it if it’s cold or b) tie it around my waist. Should you care to bring a hat, scarf, or any other clothing accessory, be sure to wear those, too. With regards to additional items added to the backpack itself, I’ve found that tying a pair of sandals in a small bag (I usually board wearing sneakers) and attaching it to the backpack never seems to get me in trouble.

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The Ultimate Packing List

Christine Sarkis

Ashley Rossi

There's a 95 percent chance Senior Editor Christine Sarkis is thinking about travel right now. Follow her on Instagram @postcartography and Twitter @ChristineSarkis .

Christine Sarkis is an SATW-award-winning journalist and executive editor at SmarterTravel. Her stories have also appeared on USA Today, Conde Nast Traveler, Huffington Post, and Business Insider. Her advice has been featured in dozens of print and online publications including The New York Times , Conde Nast Traveler , and People magazine. She has also shared travel tips on television and radio shows including Good Morning America, Marketplace, and Here & Now. Her work has been published in the anthologies Spain from a Backpack and The Best Women's Travel Writing 2008 . She is currently working on a travel memoir.

The Handy Item I Always Pack : The Trtl Pillow . It's easy to pack and comfortable, and makes it so I can actually sleep on flights.

Ultimate Bucket List Experience : Seeing the Aurora Borealis from the comfort of somewhere warm, like a glass igloo or hot spring.

Travel Motto : Curiosity is an amazing compass.

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat : Aisle all the way.

Email Christine Sarkis at [email protected] .

Ashley Rossi is always ready for her next trip. Follow her on Twitter and Instagram for travel tips, destination ideas, and off the beaten path spots.

After interning at SmarterTravel, Ashley joined the team full time in 2015. She's lived on three continents, but still never knows where her next adventure will take her. She's always searching for upcoming destination hotspots, secluded retreats, and hidden gems to share with the world.

Ashley's stories have been featured online on USA Today, Business Insider, TripAdvisor, Huffington Post, Jetsetter, and Yahoo! Travel, as well as other publications.

The Handy Item I Always Pack : "A reusable filtered water bottle—it saves you money, keeps you hydrated, and eliminates waste—win-win."

Ultimate Bucket List Experience : "A week in a bamboo beach hut on India's Andaman Islands."

Travel Motto : "Travel light, often, and in good company."

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat : "Window—best view in the house."

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Packing mishaps range from inconvenient (heading to the Caribbean without a swimsuit) to disastrous (discovering you left the country without your wallet), but most are preventable. We’ve created this ultimate packing list to help you pack well every time.

The Ultimate Packing Checklist

To see the ultimate packing list, scroll down the page or click here for an editable PDF version that you can save or print out. To customize the list, simply download or print it, then edit for your specific needs. You can also download the editable, mobile-friendly checklist here .

Clothes to Pack

• Dress Shirts
• Casual Shirts
• Sweatshirts
• Laundry Kit
• Leisure Shoes
• Hiking Boots
• Dress Shoes
• Collapsible Tote

Shop Our Clothing Packing List

Toiletries to Pack

• Dental Floss
• Conditioner
• Styling Tools
• Facial Cleanser
• Face Lotion
• Moisturizer
• Contact Lenses
• Contact Solution
• Shaving Supplies
• Makeup Remover
• Menstrual Products
• Birth Control/Medication
• Nail Clippers
• Hand Sanitizer
• First-Aid Ointment
• Insect Repellent
• Pain Relievers

Shop Our Toiletries Packing List

Miscellaneous Items

• Laptop/Tablet
• Film/Memory Card
• List of Medications
• Banking Contacts/Information
• Electronic Chargers
• Emergency Contacts
• Copy of Passport
• Plug Adapter

Shop Our Miscellaneous Items List

What to Pack in Your Carry-on

• Books or E-Books
• Travel Blanket
• Travel Pillow
• Disinfecting Wipes
• Change of Clothes
• Empty Water Bottle
• In-Flight Medications
• Passport/Visa/ID
• Credit/ATM cards
• Insurance Cards
• Maps/Directions

Shop Our Carry-On Essentials List

Packing Tips for Clothes and Other Items

When packing for a vacation the most important things to keep in mind are the length of your trip, the weather, and any non-standard clothing or gear you might need.

Your first step when packing is to decide if you’ll be checking a bag or only taking a carry-on and then curate the amount of clothing you’ll need based on that decision. Typically, you should avoid checking a bag in situations where you have a layover since the likelihood of your bag going missing goes up with every connection . You might also want to avoid checking a bag if you absolutely need items in your bag on arrival—for example, if you’re going on a cruise.

If you’re packing more minimally, focus on packing layering clothes in more neutral colors. That’s not because we don’t like fun colors and patterns; it just means that neutral-colored clothing is more versatile, so you can wear these items more than once when you’re tight on space.

How to Pack in Just a Personal Item Sized Bag

Also invest in clothing that does double duty, like multi-use wraps , crushable hats , self-cooling and heating fabrics like merino wool layers , bug-repellent clothing , wrinkle-resistant shirts, quick-drying activewear and undergarments, casual sneakers, UPF-proof clothing , and compressible jackets … just to name a few. Look toward popular athleisure brands like Lululemon , prAna , and Athleta for comfortable yet stylish travel clothing.

When curating your packing list, you should keep in mind the length of your trip and decide on quantities from there. For a shorter trip (three to five days), you can probably manage with the following: one pair of underwear and socks per day, one pair of pajamas, one to two dressier outfits, one to two activewear or athleisure outfits, one to two casual outfits, and one to two pairs of shoes. For a longer trip (over a week), you can manage with one pair of underwear and socks per day, two pairs of pajamas, three dressier outfits, three to four casual outfits, two pairs of shoes, and two activewear or athleisure outfits.

And if you’re able to do laundry on your vacation, you can probably manage with even fewer items. Just don’t forget to pack a travel laundry kit .

Scrubba Untouched Review

Also make sure to bring along accessories like a money belt, scarf or sarong (can be used for things like an airplane blanket , coverup at the beach, or to throw over your dress on a cool evening), and a collapsible tote or day bag for any extra items you might acquire on your travels. If traveling to a city or destination that is prone to pickpocketing, make sure to pack some pickpocket-proof clothing and gear .

Depending on the type of trip you’re going on, you may need to invest in some special travel gear. We’ve tested out everything from waterproof baby carriers to interchangeable heels , so you can trust our recommendations. If you’re headed out on an organized group tour , you’ll most likely get a packing list from the tour provider, which should make your trip planning easier. If not, do your research online (one tip is to look at locations on Instagram and see what people are wearing) and consult this story for other handy lists of tips.

For more active trips, make sure you have a sturdy pair of hiking boots, quick-drying clothing, a day pack, snacks, and any necessary equipment. Check out our specific packing lists for hiking trips and camping trips .

Another type of trip that you may need to pack slightly specific items for is a cruise . Make sure you pack non-standard items like seasickness remedies, formal wear, dress shoes, and your bathing suit. Beach vacations also require different items like water shoes, towels, sunscreen, and maybe even snorkel gear. Luckily for you, we also have a specific cruise packing list and a beach vacation packing list .

Lastly, you need to consider the weather. For warm-weather destinations like jungles and Caribbean islands, you can obviously skip the coats and gloves, but if you’re headed out on a ski vacation then you’ll need a whole slew of things like goggles, a neck gaiter, snow boots, and more. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with a specific Caribbean vacation packing list , a Mexico vacation packing list , and even a ski trip packing list .

10 Secrets I Learned Working in a Hotel

To help keep things organized, we love using packing cubes and/or compression sacks. They’re especially useful for when you’re traveling to multiple destinations in one trip.

Wondering how to pack all of your items? Enter the great debate of the rolling vs. folding method! While this is definitely a personal preference, we put two editors to the test to find out which method is in fact, more space-saving. Watch the video below to see the answer.

How to Pack Toiletries and Medications

Whether it’s important medication or your favorite lipstick, forgetting any type of toiletry can range from being mildly inconvenient to becoming a serious problem. For toiletries, make sure to pack your essentials, like medication, contacts, and any other items that you might not be able to purchase or replace during your travels. (Put them in your carry-on bag, not your checked suitcase.) However, if you forget items like a toothbrush or razor, you can typically call the front desk at the hotel for a spare.

We also recommend traveling with some type of a travel first-aid kit , which includes items like tweezers, first-aid ointment, bandages, travel-sized hand sanitizer, sunscreen, and insect repellent. Make sure to check TSA guidelines if you’re traveling with medication , as well as the policies and regulations at your destination.

Packing Tips for Everything Else …

Traveling without tech items like your phone, laptop, tablet, or camera can be a major bummer. For those traveling abroad, you’ll also want to remember to pack electronic adapters and converters . Other tech-related items for photographers to pack are a sturdy camera bag , backup batteries, and memory cards, as well as lens cleaner. And don’t forget smartphone essentials like a backup charger, waterproof case if you’re headed out on the water, and a phone stand or tripod for photos.

A travel packing tip we’ve learned the hard way? Travel with a copy of your passport, credit card, and bank contacts, as well as a list of medications and your emergency contacts.

If you are traveling abroad, we have an entire checklist for you, but the most important thing to note here is your passport and visas . Make sure that your passport is up to date, has as least six months of validity, and has enough blank pages for any stamps. Another tip for international travel? Give yourself plenty of time to apply for any visas that you might need and to arrange for a visit to a travel clinic if any special medications or vaccines are needed. You should also familiarize yourself with any remaining COVID-19 travel restrictions at your destination.

There are also some items that you may not think to pack, but should, like an electronic tracker , duct tape , toilet paper, a decoy wallet, or a whistle.

The 10 Best Expandable Suitcases

What to Always Pack in Your Carry-on Bag

In case you’re separated from your checked bag or other items, you should always make sure that you have your ID, wallet, house keys, medications, valuables, camera, phone, laptop, tablet, pen, cash and cards, glasses, and copy of your itinerary with you on the plane.

Other items that you might want to have handy with you include entertainment for your flight, comfort-promoting items like a blanket or pillow, as well as an empty water bottle to fill up post-security (here is a list of our favorites ), a change of clothes (just in case your luggage is lost or delayed), snacks, and gum.

If you’re looking to pack carry-on only, you guessed it: We also have a separate packing list and tips for that, as well as the best bags to use for carry-on only .

What to Pack to Stay Healthy While Traveling

The pandemic has significantly changed the way we travel and, by extension, the items we prioritize in our luggage. While many destinations have loosened or entirely lifted COVID-19 restrictions, some venues and events may still require a mask or proof of vaccination/negative COVID test to enter. Plan ahead to see if any activities on your itinerary have restrictions in place.

Sanitizing wipes and hand sanitizer , while always a good idea to have on hand at the airport , have become absolute carry-on musts. Wiping down areas like your tray table, airplane seat armrest, and hotel television remote can spare you from a variety of common travel bugs.

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2013. It has been updated to reflect the most current information. Ashley Rossi contributed to this story.

All of the products featured in this story were hand-selected by our travel editors. Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

You Might Also Like:

We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

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The 5 Best Backpacks For A 3-Day Trip (Pack Smart, Travel Light)

This post may contain affiliate links. If you purchase something from one of our links, we make a small commission from Amazon.

If you’re in a hurry, the best backpack for a 3-day trip is Thule Landmark Travel Backpack 40L .

Do you want to avoid lugging around heavy suitcases and struggling with oversized bags during travels? It’s time to pack smart and travel light with the best backpacks for a 3-day trip. 

Whether planning a weekend getaway or a quick business trip, choosing the right backpack can make all the difference. Not only will it provide you with the convenience and comfort you need, but it will also ensure you have everything you need without weighing you down. 

In this article, we will explore the key factors to consider when selecting a backpack for a short trip, from size and weight to durability and functionality. 

We will also provide expert tips and recommendations to help you find the ideal backpack that meets your travel needs. 

So, let’s dive in and discover how you can pack smart and travel light on your next adventure!

Table of Contents

5 best backpacks for a 3-day trip.

Now that we’ve explored the key factors to consider when selecting a backpack for a 3-day trip, let’s highlight some recommended backpack options that meet these criteria.

Thule Landmark Travel Backpack 40L

• A conveniently-sized, carry-on adventure travel backpack
• SafeZone compartment protects a phone, sunglasses and small valuables
• Hidden CashStash pocket keeps a passport and money safe
• Innovative LoopLocks secure zipper pulls to the bag to deter theft
• 15″ MacBook and 12.9″ tablet storage

Last update on 2024-08-12 at 19:10 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

If you are looking for a backpack that combines organization and comfort for your adventure travel, the Thule Landmark Travel Backpack Men is the perfect choice.

This backpack has a suitcase-style opening and internal compression straps that allow you to easily pack and retrieve gear, knowing everything will stay securely in place. 

The backpack also has a large zippered side pocket that securely stores a water bottle and external lash points to attach a carabiner. The backpack is designed with the perfect balance of organization, comfort, and anti-theft features.

The innovative LoopLocks secure zipper pulls to the bag to deter theft, and the backpack has a built-in sternum strap whistle. The contoured shoulder straps and hip belt tuck away when not in use, making it easier to carry.

Overall, the Thule Landmark Travel Backpack is a great choice if you invest in a high-quality backpack for your adventure travels.

• The SafeZone compartment protects your phone, sunglasses, and small valuables.
• The CashStash pocket keeps your money and passport safe from pickpockets.
• The backpack has gender-specific fits and a suspension system to carry the pack across countries and continents easily.
• The backpack is quite expensive.
• The backpack is not waterproof.
• The backpack may not fit under the seat in front of you on planes.

Maelstrom 40-50L Carry on Backpack

• 【Expandable Large capacity design】: laptop backpack standard size 19*12*9in inches (40L); expandable size 19*12*11in inches (50L). Travel bag has 3 large compartments, 2 laptop compartments (one for a 13-inch tablet and one for a 17-inch laptop respectively) and 13 storage pockets, ideal for 3-7 days of daily travel
• 【External shoe bag design】 laptop bag has a waterproof foldable shoe bag, shoes can be put into it and hanging on the backpack. when you do not need to use, the shoes bag can be placed in a special storage compartment, does not occupy the capacity of the computer backpack, but also can isolate the odor

The Maelstrom Travel Backpack is perfect for those who want a spacious backpack that can accommodate all their travel essentials. The backpack is waterproof and wear-resistant nylon fabric, making it durable and long-lasting. 

The backpack has an ergonomic design, with S-shaped shoulder straps that make it comfortable to carry for long periods. The backpack also has two padded handles on the top and sides for easy carrying.

The backpack also comes with two extra storage pockets, perfect for organizing your clothes when packing for a trip. The full mesh design makes items visible and easier to find. The backpack also comes with a toiletry bag for storing toiletries.

Overall, the Maelstrom Travel Backpack is a great investment for anyone who loves to travel and wants a backpack that can accommodate all their travel essentials.

• Expandable design (40L to 50L) for 3-7 travel days.
• Waterproof foldable shoe bag with odor-isolating compartment.
• Ample storage with 13 pockets, two laptop compartments, and three large compartments.
• Heavy at 4.18 pounds, not ideal for lightweight preferences.
• Limited color options may appeal to some.
• Not suitable for long-term travel due to limited space.

MATEIN Extra Large Travel Backpack

• DIMENSIONS: The product dimensions applies to most 18 inch and up to 18.4 inch laptops. Ideal travel laptop backpack for men and women
• MANY POCKETS & MULTI COMPARTMENT: The main compartment of our travel backpack can hold 18 inch laptop, binders folders, clothes and college items. Front compartment with pockets for mobile phone and keychain etc. Make accessories organized and easy to find. Special laptop rucksacks for commuter men women

This backpack is perfect for those who need a spacious and functional backpack for their travels. The many pockets and compartments make it easy to organize your belongings, and the USB charging port is a convenient feature that can come in handy when you’re on the go.

The backpack is also comfortable to wear, thanks to the breathable and adjustable lightweight fabric shoulder straps. However, some users may find the backpack too large for their needs, and the zippers on the backpack may not be as durable as some users would like.

Overall, if you’re looking for a reliable and spacious backpack for your 3-day trip, the MATEIN Extra Large Backpack is worth considering.

• 15+ pockets for easy organization of travel essentials.
• Convenient USB charging port for on-the-go phone charging.
• Comfortable and breathable lightweight shoulder straps.
• It may be too large for users wanting a smaller, compact backpack.
• Zippers might need to meet some users’ durability expectations.
• It is not ideal for outdoor activities like hiking or camping.

tomtoc Travel Backpack 40L

• Large Capacity & Organized: 40L, Dimensions: 20.47 x13.39 x9.06 inch; Features 3 spacious compartments – the quick-access main compartment, tech storage and front pocket to organize your clothes, toiletries, books, and a 17” laptop, tablet and accessories for up to 4 days trip; The backpack offers dependable protection and multiple pockets for your travel essentials and keep you organized and ready to travel on the go
• Convenient Storage: You can reach the main compartment from the quick access front pocket for easy reach of your travel essentials on the go, and the main compartment can also be unzipped like a suitcase for easy packing and unpacking; The tech compartment can accommodate up to 17″ laptop and 12.9 inch iPad with accessories; Front pocket, top pocket and side pockets for easy access to glasses, documents and travel liquids, etc.

Last update on 2024-08-12 at 12:49 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Tomtoc Travel Backpack—a must-have companion for your travel! With its impressive 40L capacity and thoughtfully designed three spacious compartments, this backpack is an organizer’s dream, providing ample space for your clothes, toiletries, books, laptop, tablet, and accessories.

Never worry about rummaging through your bag again! The quick-access front pocket allows you to effortlessly reach your travel essentials on the go, while the main compartment unzips like a convenient suitcase, making packing and unpacking a breeze.

One of the backpack’s standout features is its TSA-friendly and flight-approved design, streamlining your airport experience easily. It’s crafted from durable recycled fabric and renowned YKK zippers, offering environmental consciousness and long-lasting reliability.

Now, let’s address a couple of considerations. For travelers who prefer to pack light, this backpack might appear bulky. However, rest assured that its comfort and organizational benefits make it well worth it.

Some users have found zippers a tad stiff initially, but they ease up with use, and the backpack’s overall quality more than compensates for this minor concern.

While a built-in rain cover would have been a nice addition, it’s a small trade-off considering the backpack’s numerous other advantages.

In conclusion, the Tomtoc Travel Backpack is an excellent investment for your 3-day journeys and beyond. Its impressive capacity, accessibility, and sturdiness make it a smart choice for frequent travelers.

• 40L capacity with three compartments for organized storage.
• Quick-access front pocket for on-the-go retrieval, main compartment like a suitcase.
• TSA-friendly, durable recycled fabric and YKK zippers.
• It may feel bulky for light packers.
• Zippers might be initially stiff.

Osprey Women’s Fairview 40 Travel Backpack

• Adjustable torso fit
• Large panel zip access to main compartment
• Dual front compression straps
• The harness and hipbelt stow away for safekeeping while checked and deploy quickly for any path or trail

Osprey Women’s Fairview 40 Travel Backpack has a lightweight, streamlined design, perfect for seamless 3-day trips for a woman.

Packing and unpacking become a breeze with the large panel zip access to the main compartment and dual front compression straps. Plus, worry not about checking it in, as it meets carry-on size restrictions for most airlines.

Your electronics are safe with the lockable zipper access to the main compartment and the quick access zippered pocket leading to the padded laptop and tablet sleeve (capable of fitting most 16″ laptops), ensuring secure and organized travels.

While the laptop sleeve is nestled at the bottom, which may seem inconvenient initially, the backpack’s ample organization makes up for it. Though there are no external mesh pockets for water bottles, its compact design and travel-focused features offset this minor drawback.

To top it off, the Osprey Women’s Fairview 40 Travel Backpack comes with the assurance of Osprey’s All Mighty Guarantee, cementing its reliability and quality.

In summary, if you’re searching for a lightweight and compact backpack for your 3-day adventures, the Osprey Women’s Fairview 40 Travel Backpack is an excellent choice. It offers exceptional organization and travel-oriented features, making it a smart investment for the savvy traveler.

• Lightweight and streamlined design, perfect for fast-moving globetrotters on 3-day trips.
• Large panel zip access and dual front compression straps for easy packing and unpacking.
• It meets carry-on size restrictions for most airlines, eliminating the need for checking it in.
• The laptop sleeve at the bottom may need to be more convenient to access.
• There are no external mesh pockets, making carrying water bottles less convenient.

6 Factors to Consider When Selecting A Backpack

Several important factors must be considered when selecting a backpack for your 3-day trip. These factors will help you find a backpack suitable for your travel needs and ensure you can pack efficiently and comfortably. Let’s take a closer look at each of these factors.

Backpack Size and Capacity: Determining the Right Size for Your Needs

The first and most crucial factor to consider when choosing a backpack is its size and capacity. The size of your backpack will depend on the duration of your trip and the amount of stuff you plan to carry. 

For a 3-day trip, a backpack with a capacity of around 30-40 liters should be sufficient. This site will allow you to pack all your essentials without overloading your backpack. 

Airlines often have size restrictions for carry-on luggage, so make sure your backpack meets their requirements if you plan to bring it on the plane.

Related: Best Backpacks For A 5-Day Trip .

Backpack Features and Design: Understanding the Different Types of Backpacks and Their Features

The next factor to consider is the features and design of the backpack. Various types of backpacks are available on the market, each with features and design elements. 

Some backpacks are designed for hiking or camping, while others are more suited for urban travel. Consider the purpose of your trip and the activities you plan to engage in when selecting a backpack. 

Look for features such as multiple compartments, padded straps, and waterproof materials to ensure that the backpack meets your needs and offers the necessary functionality.

Material and Durability: Choosing a Backpack That Will Withstand the Rigors of Travel

Durability is another crucial factor to consider when selecting a backpack. You want a backpack that can withstand the rigors of travel and last for multiple trips. 

Look for backpacks made from high-quality materials such as nylon or polyester, as these materials are known for their durability and water resistance. 

Additionally, consider the quality of the zippers, buckles, and stitching to ensure that the backpack will hold up well over time.

Investing in a durable backpack may cost more upfront, but it will save you money in the long run by avoiding the need for frequent replacements.

Related: The Best Backpacks For Weekend Trips .

Comfort and Fit: Ensuring Your Backpack Is Comfortable to Carry for Long Periods

Comfort is key when carrying a backpack for an extended period. Look for backpacks with padded shoulder straps and a breathable back panel to distribute the weight evenly and minimize strain on your shoulders and back. 

Adjustable straps and a hip belt are essential features that allow you to customize the fit and provide additional support. Before making a purchase, try on the backpack and walk around to ensure it feels comfortable and doesn’t cause discomfort or pain.

Organization and Accessibility: Evaluating the Backpack’s Compartments and Pockets

Having a well-organized backpack can make a significant difference in your travel experience. Look for backpacks with multiple compartments and pockets, allowing you to separate and access your belongings easily. 

Consider your packing style and the items you typically carry to determine the ideal organization system for your backpack. 

Additionally, having external pockets or side mesh pockets can be convenient for storing items you need quick access to, such as a water bottle or a passport.

Weight and Compactness: Finding a Lightweight and Compact Backpack for Easy Travel

When traveling light, every ounce matters. Look for backpacks that are lightweight and compact, as these will be easier to carry and maneuver. Avoid backpacks with excessive padding or unnecessary features that add unnecessary weight. 

Additionally, consider the packability of the backpack. Some backpacks come with compression straps or can be folded into a smaller size, making them easy to store when not in use. 

A lightweight and compact backpack will make your journey more comfortable and save you from potential overweight baggage fees.

How To Pack For 3-Day Trip (Tips and Tricks)

Now that you have found the perfect backpack for your 3-day trip let’s explore some packing tips and tricks to maximize space and efficiency.

1. Roll, Don’t Fold: Instead of folding your clothes, roll them tightly to save space and prevent wrinkles.

2. Use Packing Cubes: Packing cubes are an excellent way to keep your belongings organized and maximize space in your backpack. They also make it easier to find specific items without unpacking everything.

3. Wear Bulky Items: If you’re traveling with bulky items like a jacket or boots, wear them instead of packing them in your backpack to save space.

4. Pack Versatile Clothing: Opt for items that can be mixed and matched to create multiple outfits, reducing the number of clothes you need to bring.

5. Utilize Every Inch: Fill every space in your backpack, such as shoes or gaps between items, with smaller items like socks or underwear.

6. Minimize Toiletries: Instead of packing full-size toiletries, transfer them into travel-sized containers or consider using solid toiletries to save space and comply with airline regulations.

By following these packing tips and tricks, you’ll be able to make the most of your backpack’s capacity and ensure that you have everything you need for your 3-day trip without overpacking.

Check out our related article about how to pack light for business travel , where you can travel ultra-light like the pilots and flight attendants.  

Selecting the perfect backpack for a hassle-free 3-day trip is essential for packing smart and traveling light. 

Consider factors such as size and capacity, features and design, material and durability, comfort and fit, organization and accessibility, weight and compactness when choosing a backpack. 

By evaluating these factors and following our recommended backpack options, you’ll be able to find the ideal backpack that meets your specific travel needs. Remember to utilize our packing tips and tricks to maximize space and efficiency in your backpack.

With the right backpack and a well-organized packing strategy, you’ll be ready to embark on your next adventure easily and comfortably. 

Happy travels!

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publication date: June 23, 2023

How to pack for 3 days? A practical guide for weekend travelers

Do you have a short but intense trip ahead of you? Don't know what to pack for the weekend? Don't worry! This practical guide will tell you how to pack for 3 adventurous days. Ensure your comfort and travel with style based on our list of things for a weekend trip.

• Start packing for the weekend by.... Choosing the right suitcase or travel bag
• Before you head out for a weekend trip, set an itinerary and match your clothes to it
• Plan your suitcase packing with your head - limit the number of things you take with you
• What to pack for a 3-day trip? My list of things to take
• A list of things isn't everything - apply a few simple tricks and make the most of the available space!

List of essentials, or what to pack for the weekend?

1. start packing for the weekend by.... choosing the right suitcase or travel bag.

Choosing the right luggage is essential for a successful trip. If you're planning a short trip of 3 days , you'll usually only need a small cabin suitcase or a comfortable travel bag that is both simple, flexible and casual . The advantage of a sports bag is also that it is a multifunctional product - you can successfully use it on your way to the gym, for example! For keen hikers, on the other hand, a sturdy rucksack may be more convenient, as it will be lightweight and easy to carry when changing locations frequently . 

How to pack for 3 days? Your luggage should, first and foremost, be roomy - after all, it has to hold everything on our list of essentials for a weekend trip . When choosing the perfect luggage, also consider its practicality and ease of carrying and.... don't forget to label it ! Attaching even a small key ring can ensure that your luggage does not fall into the wrong hands (by accident, of course!).

2. Before you head out for a weekend trip, set an itinerary and match your clothes to it

Before you pack your luggage, remember that your clothes should be suitable for the weather of the destination and the activities you have planned for your holiday .

How do I pack for 3 days without forgetting anything? It all depends on whether you plan to explore the city or relax on the beach during your trip. Or are you going on a business trip ? Matching your clothes to your planned activities is key, especially if you're going away for such a short time. Make sure your suitcase has clothes for every eventuality and remember that the weather can play tricks ! Take clothes with you that can be worn in layers and be prepared for changing weather conditions.

Check out what 7 things you can't miss in your suitcase!

What to take to the sea?

3. plan your suitcase packing with your head - limit the number of things you take with you.

Remember it's only a 3-day trip ? If possible, limit the number of things you take with you . Avoid over-packing and focus on the essential items you will need to travel comfortably. Opt for versatile items and clothes that can be easily put together to create different looks, and (if possible and you're not going on a business trip, for example) limit the number of pairs of shoes to.... one. You have to admit that (if anything) extra footwear takes up quite a bit of space in your suitcase.

4. What to pack for a 3-day trip? My list of things to take

If you still don't know how to pack for 3 days and need specifics - we have something especially for you. Below you'll find a ready-made list of things to take on a weekend trip , which will definitely make packing your suitcase easier. Of course, this is just a suggestion - feel free to adapt the list to your needs and use it every time you face the challenge of... packing clothes . Also remember to limit the number of items , choose functional clothes that can be easily put together and keep your luggage tidy with extra bags and containers , which are always a good idea to have with you.

• A base set : three sets of clothes, consisting of an undershirt, T-shirt, blouse or shirt (depending on what you feel most comfortable in), as well as trousers, shorts or a skirt (possibly a dress to replace both your top and bottom). If you like to mix and match clothes or simply want to save space in your luggage - choose versatile clothes in neutral colours that are sure to go together.
• Layers : a light jacket (preferably with a hood), jumper or sweatshirt to protect you from the cold.
• Swimsuit : if you will have access to a pool or beach during your trip, don't forget to bring a swimming costume.
• Personal underwear and pyjamas
• Footwear : shower flip-flops and a pair of comfortable shoes, such as sandals, trainers or lightweight sneakers . Remember that your comfort is the most important thing when travelling!
• Headwear: if you're planning a sunshine holiday or packing for the seaside , remember to bring a hat or a classic cap to protect your head from the excessive sun.

Toiletries and hygiene items

• Toiletries in miniature : if you want to save space when packing your luggage, take along small bottles of shampoo, conditioner, bath lotion, moisturiser, sun cream or whatever else you happen to be using. Check also how to carry liquids correctly in your luggage .
• Personal care items : it is a good idea to pack a toothbrush and toothpaste, deodorant, tissues and a razor for a two-day trip (check whether you can carry razor blades in your luggage ). If you plan to take cosmetics or perfume with you, make sure they are packed correctly.
• Quick-dry towel
• A small first aid kit : also remember to take plasters, painkillers and bandages with you.

Accessories and time easers

• Shoe bags:  it's a good idea to have shoe bags with you, which will be useful for separating your shoes from the rest of the things in your luggage.
• Map or guidebook : if there's one thing worth packing for a holiday , it's a map or guidebook . Having handy tips and information about the place you intend to visit is essential!
• A fabric shopping bag : in addition to your clothes, it's worth taking a simple fabric bag - this will be especially useful if you intend to do some shopping during your trip.
• Sunglasses and sun cream
• Book or magazine : be prepared for boredom on the plane and take a book with you to read during the journey . On board our planes you will also find Kaleidoscope magazine , which is sure to satisfy your reading needs, as well as a digital press available to all passengers! 

Check out the latest issue of our monthly in-flight magazine.

Kaleidoscope in-flight magazine

• Identity card or passport : check what documents you will need during your trip .
• Airline tickets
• Booking confirmation printouts : if you want to avoid extra stress when you land, make sure you have your accommodation or car rental booking confirmation documents with you. You can also have them in electronic form, but remember - your phone can simply go out of order at any time. Also make a note of the address and contact details of the hotel where you are staying and don't get bogged down with the difficulties of finding your way around.
• Money and a payment card : Necessary for day-to-day expenses will of course be.... money. Keep it both on your payment card and in cash - after all, you never know when you might need it and in what form! Remember to exchange money at an exchange office before you leave and to make sure how much money you can carry on the plane .

Electronics

• Mobile phone and charger
• Powerbank : see if you can carry a powerbank on the plane .
• Hair dryer or straightener: see if you can take it on the plane with you!
• Hand-held iron : if you're going on a business trip , a hand-held iron could come in handy!
• Electric shaver : Before you pack it on the plane, find out when you can carry an electric shaver in your hand luggage and when in your registered luggage.

Read more about the carriage of electronic devices on board our aircraft.

Are you taking electronics with you?

5. a list of things isn't everything - apply a few simple tricks and make the most of the available space.

How to pack for 3 days? If you want to make the most of the available space in your suitcase , follow a few simple tricks. Fold your clothes carefully so that they fit in your suitcase without getting crumpled. To do this, instead of folding your clothes into cubes, opt for... rolling ! This type of packing works especially well for lightweight cotton garments such as T-shirts and dresses . Lay larger garments, such as a jacket or sweatshirt, flat on the bottom of the suitcase . It's also a good idea to have special bottles for toiletries to prevent leaks and keep your luggage tidy, as well as some fabric bags for dirty clothes . If you're worried about your luggage exceeding the weight allowance, put on your heaviest clothes and shoes . 

As you can see, packing for a 3-day trip can be easy and fun. Especially if you know what to look out for and.... have our list of things to pack to hand. When planning a 3-day trip, it's also a good idea to consider your needs and preferences, be a minimalist and only take the things you really need. After all, who likes to travel laden with luggage? So bow out of the overload and enjoy the freedom of traveling! 

Do you want to know what the maximum weight of the suitcase you are taking on board is? Find out about the rules for carrying luggage on our flights !

What to take on a 3-day trip? Check out SHOP&MORE's offerings and get inspired!

Get ready for the weekend with SHOP&MORE

What to take on a 3-day trip? Check out SHOP&MORE's offerings and get inspired!

Want to share your memories? Post pics from your trip on your Instagram and tag us in the description. Add #flylotblog and #flylot and let us find you!

Read more travel tips!

How to order products from shop&more with delivery on board, electronic flight ticket — what does it look like and how to read the information, jet lag - what is, symptoms and tips for relief, child on airplane - how to ensure their comfortable journey.

10 Best 3 Day Backpacks in 2023 – Buyer’s Guide

Whether you’re looking for the best 3 day backpack for camping, hunting, military, or hiking, finding the right backpack should maximize your storage space and keep you safe in the most challenging conditions. Specifically made 3 day backpacks are suitable for long-distance hiking, law enforcement, military deployment, and other ventures of high activity. Most come with the versatility of the hydration bladder and external nozzle, radio antennae, or earphone ports.

To people new to the world of backpacking , you may be tempted to try a 3 day trip with the trusty daypack you’ve been using for years. The drawback, of course, is that you’ll end up having to strap so many items to the outside of your daypack that you’ll be flopping down the trail and most definitely digging a pretty good blister into your leg.

In a Hurry? The test winners after 14 hrs of research

Condor 3 Day Assault Pack – Premium Pick

Why is it better?

• The grab handles on the top and sides prove very applicable if you have to grab the bag and move out quickly
• The side pockets are large enough to hold a large Nalgene bottle and the bottom pouch is large enough for any accessories you take with you
• The compartment layout turned out to be very well thought out and has many compartments to organize gear that actually make sense
• Velcro loops on the loose ends of straps not only keep dangling straps out of the way but can be used to create more tie-off points

REEBOW GEAR Military Tactical 3 Day Backpack – Best Value

• Rugged. Holds up well against abrasion and other forces
• Waterproof. Good for carrying electronics or books on campus or out on trails
• Comfortable. Shoulder straps are padded and adjustable
• Velcro padding to add your favorite patches

Best 3 Day Backpacks – Overview

3 day backpacks also known as tactical or assault packs are regularly used for a wide range of activities, including travel, hiking, hunting, emergency personnel, military, police, adventurers, and many others. Their dramatic rise in popularity is due in large part to their height, style, practicality and unique characteristics. Definitions of such features include compartments incorporated, MOLLE webbing, and bladders for hydration. In this guide, we give you the best 3 day backpacks out there that will be most suitable to the adventurer your partaking.

3 Day Backpacks Reviews

1. condor 3 day assault pack – premium pick.

The Condor 3 Day Assault Pack is an outstanding backpack for carrying just about everything you might need for your 3-day trip. The Condor Military Backpack fits nicely with your list of needs with an incredible amount of storage and compartments. The pack is designed to last, as is evident in its architecture. This pack is made for lengthy journeys and deployments, from the heavy-duty hold and drag handle to the hydration bladder pockets. The D-ring shoulder straps with body contour are suitable for connection to the gear.

Sternum strap and waist belt enhance comfort and support. There are seven compartments that are extremely useful. A primary compartment, a secondary compartment (for maps and other essentials), two large pockets with a zipper, two outside side pockets, and a hydration system. The individual rear foam pad optimizes comfort and airflow. Don’t forget to also check our guide to the best bug out backpacks .

Key Features:

• Large load cargo capacity compartment
• Designed for easy access and organization (7 pockets)
• Hydration-pack compatible (2L or 3L bladder)
• Body contour shoulder straps with D-Ring for equipment attachment, sternum strap, and a removable waist belt
• Individual foam pad back panel for extra comfort and maximum airflow

Specifications:

• Brand: Condor
• Capacity: 50L
• Dimensions: 22″ H x 17″ W x 11″ D
• Weight: 2.5 lbs
• Waist straps are annoying if they are not in use and can not be detached

2. MOUNTAINTOP 40L Hiking Backpack for Outdoor Camping

This MOUNTAINTOP 40L Hiking Backpack for Outdoor Camping by Mountaintop is impressively practical for shorter treks and is included here for its excellent value. This is a pretty standard, no-frills pack that shouldn’t be relied on for more rugged backpacking scenarios, but if your budget is low and you don’t often go up against gnarly terrain, this bag is pretty adequate for some shorter duration trekking.

Whether used for travel or taken on an adventure outdoors, sized to comply with carry-on luggage regulations, it cuts out waiting times at check-in and the baggage carousel. With padded shoulder straps and a chest strap to distribute weight, the pack is easy to wear. YKK zippers and yarn fabric ensure that this pack will be around for a long, long time. The main compartment has an array of internal dividers including a space suitable for holding a hydration bladder and tube., one compartments keep you organized on the go, while still leaving plenty of extra space for your other necessities.

• YKK Zipper and YKK Buckle
• Main compartment is the size of the whole backpack
• Adjustable sternum strap
• Breathable molded back panel
• S-shaped shoulder straps
• Brand: MOUNTAINTOP
• Capacity: 40L
• Dimensions: 21.7″ H x 13.8″ W x 6.3″ D
• Weight: 2.1 lbs
• Price is extremely reasonable
• The back support is very comfortable
• Lots of compartments each its own different size
• The cushioning from the shoulder strap is nice and thick
• Biggest issue with both side straps are it’s a single strap, and the buckle isn’t the most secure

3. 5.11 Tactical RUSH72 Military Backpack

The 5.11 Tactical RUSH72 Military Backpack is engineered to be a full-featured 72-hour bag that provides ample space for gear and accessories while remaining rugged and reliable enough for extended excursions or tactical deployments. Compatible with 5.11 Tier System, and the Rush Tier Rifle Sleeve, the pack features unmatched storage capability, a wrap-around MOLLE and SlickStick-compatible web platform, adjustable shoulder and sternum straps, a 60-oz. hydration pocket, and durable, water-resistant construction.

This pack is ideal for recreational use or as an operational bug out bag with dual-zippered front and main compartments with molded grip pulls. Fleece-lined sunglass pocket with Cinching waist strap and dual compression straps and Contour yoke system with grab and go handle. Rugged, self-healing YKK zipper hardware and 5.11’s signature Centerline design to customize your bag with purpose-built pouches. Make sure you also check our selection of the best survival backpacks .

• Dual-zippered front and main compartments with glove-friendly molded grip pulls
• Adjustable dual density closed-cell foam shoulder straps
• Cinching waist strap and dual compression straps
• Built from high strength, water-repellant 1050D nylon
• Integrated drainage grommet that’s Compatible with 5.11 Tier System
• Brand: 5.11
• Capacity: 55L
• Dimensions: 23″ H x 13.5″ W x 8.5″ D
• Weight: 5.5 lbs
• High quality construction and materials
• Lots of space and organization (pockets, zippered compartments, etc.)
• MOLLE straps everywhere
• The straps are perfect and weight distribution is right on
• The pen slots are a bit short

4. REEBOW GEAR Military Tactical 3 Day Backpack – Best Value

The REEBOW GEAR Military Tactical 3 Day Backpack is made of high-density fabric that is both durable and water-resistant. It has molle webbing throughout for attaching additional tactical pouches or gear. It is equipped with heavy-duty zippers and utility-style cord pulls, Side and front load compression system, ventilated mesh padded back area and shoulder strap that makes it breathable and comfortable.

This pack is also hydration compatible that works great for a hydration bladder. This bag can be used as 3 day assault pack, bug out bag backpack, range bag, hunting backpack, survival backpack, army backpack, trekking backpack or day pack for daily use.

• Molle webbing
• Heavy-duty zippers and utility-style cord pulls
• Side and front load compression system
• Ventilated mesh padded back area & shoulder strap
• Brand: REEBOW GEAR
• Dimensions: 20″ H x 13″ W x 11″ D
• Weight: 2.82 lbs
• MOLLE on the side has three slots, but only room for a pouch with one strap. The other two are too small

5. Roaring Fire Tactical 3 Day Backpack

The Roaring Fire Tactical 3 Day Backpack uses durable 900D Oxford waterproof fabric. This tactical assault pack backpack use contoured shoulder straps with quick-release sternum strap and waist strap, The shoulder strap is equipped with three kinds of anti-pressure and anti-seismic design: the first layer of mesh fabric is breathable, the second layer of foam sustains release function, the third layer of foam anti-pressure and anti-seismic effect, waist strap is removable. The main compartment comes with a zip-around closure, interior zip pocket, and mesh pocket.

The military backpack has a MOLLE webbing system on front and sides for MOLLE pouches and accessories as needed for any mission. This webbing allows you to add straps, compartments, and other customized features to your tactical backpack. Side compression straps ensure your load is secure. Fits any MOLLE Compatible accessory attachments with 2 straps on the pack’s side.

• Shoulder straps are fully adjustable for comfort
• Waist and sternum straps for even weight distribution
• Fast Tex buckles for better load-bearing
• MOLLE compatible
• Brand: Roaring Fire
• Capacity: 45L
• Dimensions: 19.6″ H x 11.8″ W x 11.8″ D
• Weight: 3 lbs
• A lot of room with 2 large and 2 small compartments that have small zipper punches and separators in them to keep things organized
• Plenty of MOLLE attachments and velcro on the front and sides
• This bag has a ton of compression straps to help insure your load can be secured close to your body
• The plastic snaps and zippers seem well made
• Material is not as thick but acceptable for the price

6. CVLIFE Tactical 3 Day Backpack

The CVLIFE Tactical 3 Day Backpack has one main large compartment, one front detachable bag which can be used as a tactical fanny pack separately, two side detachable tactical backpack accessories pouches which can be used as first aid bags. This multipurpose backpack can be flexibly regarded as a 50L and 60L backpack. MOLLE system of this military molle backpack rucksack allows you to easily attach outdoor gear, more pouches and sleeping pad.

Adjustable dual density ventilated mesh shoulder straps, cinching waist strap, dual compression straps, heavy-duty zippers, and rain diverting flaps keep your rucksack pack secure and comfortable. This multipurpose pack can be used as a 72-hour emergency kit, range bag, hunting backpack, army camouflage backpack, 3 day assault pack, survival backpack, hiking trekking camping rucksack, and EDC outdoor backpack.

• Waterproof 600D oxford fabric material
• With 3 detachable molle pouches attached on front and two sides
• Large cargo with a big compartment in it
• Come with a hand carry strap and adjustable shoulder strap
• Wide & thick waist belt, comfortable for heavy carry
• With adjustable chest belt
• Brand: CVLIFE
• Dimensions: 19.7″ H x 13″ W x 8.7″ D
• Weight: 3.85 lbs
• Cheaper than other large packs, removable smaller bag
• MOLLE style system with multiple small pouches and lots of clips
• Large zippers which are easy to grab with gloves on
• Water resistant in light rain
• The material has a shiny sheen about it

7. BLACKHAWK 3 Day Assault Pack

The BLACKHAWK 3 Day Assault Pack is a mid-sized, frameless backpack that features a detachable sternum strap and padded, removable waist belt for extreme versatility. The inside features a main compartment, small cargo pouch, and cargo pocket pouch to fit an optional 100 oz. BLACKHAWK! Hydration System.

Constructed of heavy-duty 1000 denier nylon. It comes with a detachable sternum strap and padded, removable waist belt for extreme versatility. Compartments are closed by YKK zipper and sliders with silent pulls. It also features padded shoulder straps with D-rings for equipment attachment.

• Padded shoulder straps
• Detachable, elasticized sternum strap with silent release buckle
• YKK zipper and sliders with silent pulls
• Optional hydrastorm hydration System
• Made of 1000 denier Nylon
• Brand: BLACKHAWK
• Capacity: 37L
• Dimensions: 20″ H x 13″ W x 6″ D
• Weight: 2.2 lbs
• It fits close to the body and up high for a more ruck-like profile
• Completely open interior. Its essentially a big dump pouch
• The compression straps are set perfectly to keep the bulk this pack can bear in check
• Simplicity. 3 compartments main, rear and rear slotted
• There arent any small organization pockets for pens and gadgets

8. ARMYCAMO Outdoor 3 Day Expandable 40-64L Backpack

You can use the ARMYCAMO Outdoor 3 Day Expandable 40-64L Backpack every day for school, carry on for travel or a military tactical assault rucksack. It is completely versatile for any backpack situation. You will love having so many different places to put all your stuff to keep it all separated. It even has a hydration compartment. There’s plenty of compartments to store and organize your life. The pack holds 3 days’ worth of clothes along with toiletries and other essential gear. A solid multifunctional backpack for combat, range, survival or hunting. It is water-resistant keeping everything dry in a storm.

With its 600 denier polyester making it tear-resistant with awesome straps and great zippers. One nice surprise is the waist strap is removable for when you are not hiking, camping and trekking. A great advantage is the accordion zipper or expandability so you can shrink it down to a smaller bag when you don’t need the extra room or expand it to 5 inches deeper for more gear. You will be so impressed with our backpack. You can make it into a bug out bag or 72-hour emergency kit and just the greatest travelers Christmas gift.

• An expandable capacity of 40 to 64 liters
• 3-liter bladder hydration compartment (bladder not included)
• A removable waist belt
• Reversible zippers to keep out the dust and dirt
• Mesh pocket for a water bottle
• Brand: ARMYCAMO
• Capacity: 40-64L
• Dimensions: 21″ H x 14.5″ W x 8″ D
• Weight: 3.6 lbs
• Good quality material
• Interior has kind of a water proof like coating
• Zippers are good quality and are easy to use and doesn’t snag
• Lots of space inside of the main compartment, and also is expandable with a zipper
• The smaller front pockets lack width in terms of “Length x Width x Height” which puts a damper on storing things in there due to the lack of volume

9. Orca Tactical 3 Day Backpack

Massive storage in a small package is what this authentic elite carrier system is all about. The Orca Tactical 3 Day Backpack has room for all of your essential gear. The pack is ideally used as a 3 day survival bag or backpack. it is made from 600D polyester material. The ORCA tactical assault backpack is reinforced and double stitched at all stress points. The closures are secured by high-quality YKK zippers with nylon pulls that are rust-resistant and tough.

Molle backpack webbing system on front and sides ensures you can add tactical MOLLE gear and pouches as needed for any mission. Side compression straps ensure your load is secure. This pack fits any MOLLE accessory attachments with 2 straps on the pack’s side. The compression straps include an elastic band to keep the straps organized and in place to prevent snagging. It comes with 2 padded larger compartments and 2 smaller compartments on the front.

• 600D polyester material
• Breathable, mesh padded, contoured shoulder harnesses
• Comfortable waist and chest straps
• Fit any MOLLE accessory attachments
• YKK zippers
• Brand: Orca Tactical
• Dimensions: 20″ H x 13″ W x 13″ D
• Weight: 3.1 lbs
• All zips are double zippers
• The hip belt webbing is thick enough that even without padding it is pretty comfortable to wear
• The large storage compartment can unzip completely like a suitcase
• Affordable and quality fabric
• The padding in the shoulder straps is light-duty

10. LA Police Gear Atlas 72H MOLLE Tactical Backpack

The LA Police Gear Atlas 72H MOLLE Tactical Backpack is made from ultra-tough 900D Polyester with PVC Coating. So as not to scream “tactical”, they’ve utilized laser-cut MOLLE on all areas of the packs. They also added a new feature to the straps of the Atlas line that allows you to buckle in their LAPG Tactical Chest Pack Attachment directly to the backpack.

Hydration compatible with ports on both shoulders. In terms of compartments, it has quick access open top pocket on front, storage on the bottom of the pack for shoes, helmet, or any bulky items and a fleece-lined eyeglass/accessory compartment. Lastly, it has a loop lined interior for attaching LAPG Pouches or other hook backed items.

• Made from 900D Polyester with PVC Coating
• LAPG Shoulder Strap System integrates with separate Tactical Chest Pack Attachment
• Laser-cut MOLLE is functional but more subtle than normal MOLLE webbing
• Loop lined interior for attaching LAPG Pouches or other hook backed items
• Brand: LA Police Gear
• Capacity: 74L
• Dimensions: 24″ H x 19″ W x 10″ D
• Weight: 5.7 lbs
• There’s plenty of room in this pack, and you can expect to pack a lot of stuff in this pack
• The molle slots on the back is stiff but not too hard, which is perfect to mount on whatever you want
• The frame has its own thin slot/pouch held in place with Velcro
• The shoulder straps have a few slots to mount your small pouches or clip on whatever you need too
• Pretty good pack pockets a little tight but for the price it’s a great pack

Buying Guide

MOLLE webbing is a feature that can attach accessories to your pack, allowing it to hold more equipment. This webbing helps you to attach your military backpack straps, compartments, and other personalized features. The military elite is very reliant on MOLLE backpacks or webbing because each mission can call for a slightly different setup. A tactical backpack with MOLLE webbing has a big advantage that it can mold to fit your needs. If you’re an outdoor lover who might be going out on an elk hunt one weekend and a snowmobile ride the next, it’s worth having a do-it-all type pack that can be personalized to fit any adventure you want.

Compression Straps

Compression straps on a 3 day backpack are specifically intended to help compress and secure the equipment once it is fully packed. Compression straps also help compact the equipment into a denser box inside your bag. You will be able to balance the weight more easily on your back and chest. If you use your backpack mainly for long-distance trekking, being able to fold the packs and concentrate the pack weight on your back will go a long way towards minimizing tiredness and helping you to travel more miles every day.

Most of the best 3 day backpacks out there usually are usually in the range of 35 to 40 liters which are made primarily for 72-hour use. There are however also bigger tactical or military backpacks . Overall, the final choice of pack size depends on whether how much stuff you need to bring to the trip. When all is said and done, you just want to make sure you fit all the supplies you need in your bag for your journeys like a flashlight, first aid kit, or survival kit.

Certain materials with a lower denier count can be more resistant to scratches and stains than other materials with a higher denier count. Therefore, it helps to study the strength and consistency of the fabric more closely. Generally speaking, you should look for a 3 day backpack with at least 500 to 1200 denier counts. Cordura nylon fabric is a well-respected fabric for which you should also keep an eye out. The stitching and zippers of the pack also play a big part in their overall durability. YKK zippers are generally considered to be of high quality and are increasingly being used by many backpack companies

Comfort should also come into play in a backpack that you may wear for days at a time. Some of the attributes that help improve a backpack’s comfort include the quality of the suspension system, padding on the shoulder straps and hip belt, as well as the back panel’s breathability. Such characteristics can largely determine how the pack rests on your body, how it fits on your shoulder and thighs, and how effective it can wick away moisture when you are actually putting it to use.

We hope this guide was helpful for finding the best 3 day backpacks as well as our guide on features to look for in a 3 day backpack. If you have any questions or concerns regarding this guide, feel free to let us know in the comments section.

One Bag Travel: How to Pack for a Weekend Trip

Packing , Packing Tips

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Just in time for holiday travel, I’m showing you how to pack your carry-on  weekender bag for a short 3-5 day trip using TFG’s minimalist  Thanksgiving Packing List  and the OG Bag by  Lo & Sons . Don’t waste money on baggage fees and learn the art of one bag travel!

How to Pack for a Weekend Trip

As you can see from the above details, I split the contents of the Thanksgiving Packing List into two sections: what you wear On the Plane and What you Pack in your Bag . Below you will see the modified version of the Thanksgiving Packing List to reflect this packing strategy:

Please visit the  Thanksgiving Packing List  for product details.

To show you that you can travel light using a capsule wardrobe even with winter clothing , I have chosen to use a small carry-on size bag using standard ziploc bags to show you how to pack for a weekend trip.

The general idea is that you wear your two outerwear pieces such as coat and sweater on the plane for warmth and space savings. Also, in this example, I would wear the jeans and the red top as my flight outfit. Finish the look with the largest pair of shoes, in this case, boots and pack your second set of shoes.

To maximize space inside your weekend bag, use a packing cube  or use a gallon size Ziploc bag to hold the rest of your clothing. In this example, the clothing left after you’ve chosen your flight outfit are four tops and one bottom which fit perfectly into the Ziploc bag.

In addition, pack 5 underwear and 1 bra into a sandwich size Ziploc bag or your luggage organizer of choice and stick to a TSA approved toiletry kit such as this one to avoid any issues with oversized liquids when you go through security.

Please refer to this Airport Survival Guide for more tips on breezing through security.

While it may not seem like it from the images, after filling the bag with all the listed items it still had plenty of room that you can use to fit an extra pair of shoes, sweater, and jeans. Not too bad for one bag travel!

For more details on the ultra chic and functional travel bag featured in this post, check out Lo & Sons . They sent me their trademark bag ‘The OG” which is small enough to fit under the seat on a flight yet provides enough room for a cold weather capsule wardrobe such as the one shown in this post.

To learn more about creating a capsule travel wardrobe, please check out TFG’s eBook “ Pack Light Stylishly ”! 

What are your one bag travel tips?

For more tips on how to pack light, please read the following:

• 75 Packing Tips that Will Make Your Travels So Much Easier
• How to Fit Everything in a Carryon (Video Tutorial)
• Ten Step Packing Guide for One Bag Travel
• How to Choose the Best Travel Shoes

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Hope you’ve found this post on how to pack for a weekend trip helpful. Please share with your friends on Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest. Thanks for reading!

31 comments.

The purple bag – Where can one find the purple bag?!?!? I posted the pic on my FB page and people went nuts about the bag.

Hi Deidra, it’s the OG by Lo & Sons http://www.loandsons.com/ Gorgeous!!!!

What about socks?

Ooops! I forgot to include socks 🙂 2 merino wool

I’m so happy to see a one bag, under the seat packing post.

So I’m going to challenge you. Three weeks, cold weather, one *underseat* bag, plus handbag. Nothing goes up in the overhead bins. Pockets a plus.

I do it every year in a RedOxx extra small (tip: it and my cross body bag will fit under the seat) duffle; or a Kelty osprey backpack that also fits under the seat.

That’s awesome Robyn! Would you want to share your tips on TFG?

Sure. Contact me. Do you see the emails we put in the form?

Absolutely 🙂 I’ll get in touch!

Thank you for all the tips! I am in love with your green coat! Can you please share where you purchased it from?

Hi Fay! The clothing set is originally from this post: https://travelfashiongirl.com/thanksgiving-packing-list-10-piece-capsule-wardrobe-for-3-5-day-trip/

I don’t own this exact jacket I just got it online to create the collage. Unfortunately, I can’t remember where I found it. Possibly Modcloth or SheInside? Sorry 🙁

Thank you! I’m going to NYC for a long weekend and this is a perfect guide for what to bring.

Great! Glad to help 🙂

Thank you so much for this post! I used it as a guide for my family of 4 (Dad, Mom, 11yr old, 2 yr old). We did 6 days in Boston for New Years and took 2 carryons and 3 backpacks. We followed your guide to a T, but added extra base layers and snow pants for everyone (came in handy for sledding after the blizzard in subzero temps). I packed a little bit extra for our toddler, and had no trouble with having enough to wear. I did use travel space bags, which left enough space for kiddie gear and electronics.

That’s great to hear Holly – I’m glad you were able to use the packing list as a guideline and adapt it to your trip and make it your own – perfect! Thank you for reading 🙂

What brand are those black flats you took with you?

Hi Nikkie, they’re the Oka B shoes featured here: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/12-days-of-giveaways-day-12-win-a-convertible-camera-bag/

LOVE this bag, but it is not in my price range currently. Have you come across any other bags that are similar, but a bit more budget friendly? I’m always looking for a useful weekend bag and this looks like it is IT!

Here’s a whole list: https://travelfashiongirl.com/weekender-bags-for-holiday-travel-fly-in-style-with-our-top-10-picks/

I just purchased this Travelon bag on Amazon. http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00GR1OEQ2/ref=oh_details_o00_s01_i00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I did a pre pack tonight to see if it would work. I’m headed to the midwest in a few weeks. It will be cold so I wanted to make sure that I could pack enough and stay warm. The bag holds everything for a 3-5 day trip. I think it will be a great piece for my travels.

That’s great! Thanks for sharing 🙂

Great list! I love, love, love my OG. I use Eagle Creek packing cubes and it’s amazing how much stuff one can fit.

I love these packing cubes, makes such a difference!

Hey, What do you take for toiletries? Got a list for weekend , week or two?

Everyone uses a different amount of beauty products so the best tip is to pay attention to how much you actually use before you travel then plan accordingly. This post might also help: https://travelfashiongirl.com/5-tips-to-travel-size-toiletries-for-minimalist-travelistas/

I just arrived in Minnesota for a 6 day visit with the family. I successfully packed a weekender bag (with plenty of empty space) and a purse, but I did have to bring my backpack. As a med student the work never ends, so I have a lot of school stuff being lugged around. But I love using these guides for how much is really appropriate/necessary for a trip. Keep it up!

That’s great to hear! I’m glad your attempt at One Bag Travel was a success 🙂

I was about to pack my bag for Thanksgiving (using this great list to keep my packing in check) and I noticed that pajamas aren’t included. Sleeping in your underwear could work but not really during the winter, do you recycle a top to sleep in? What about pajama bottoms? Thanks!

For this particular packing list I would add one set of thermals or long sleeve top and leggings to sleep in for Thanksgiving time. What did you choose?

As a guest in someone’s home, I also needed to pack a light bathrobe and slippers. No way was I going to come out in my leggings and top. Wearing sweater, t-shirt top, jacket, jeans, scarf and loafers was my perfect plane attire for the north. I think I aced it. Thanks!

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• Camping FAQ

What Should I Pack For A 3 Day Backpacking Trip?

• January 2, 2022

Planning out all the gear for your first 3 Day weekend backpacking trip can be overwhelming. An overnight trip doesn’t seem so daunting since you can survive anything for a single night, but nobody wants to be miserable all weekend. Don’t worry! Planning out your gear for a 3 day backpacking trip isn’t all challenging once you break it down to the basics.

What should I pack for a 3 day backpacking trip? The answer is pretty simple. Pa ck everything you would need for an overnight trip, plus extra consumables items like food, fuel, and toilet paper. It doesn’t matter if you go on a short 24 hour hike or a week long trip, most of your gear stays the same. Focus on the 10 essential pieces of backpacking gear, add in a sleep system, cooking gear, way to store your food, and a 40-50 liter pack.

Sorry that I make it seem seem so obvious, but I can almost guarantee you’re overthinking the topic. If you focus on the 10 essential backpacking items you should have more than enough gear to handle a 3 day backpacking trip. But what are the 10 essential items every backpacker needs to carry?

Table Of Contents

It doesn’t matter how far or long you’re traveling on a backpacking trip. You should pack the same basic items regardless of trip length. My overnight backpacking list and 2-Week List look almost identical. I carry extra food, fuel, and toilet paper, but it’s basically the same. So what do I need for a 3 day backpacking trip?

Gear List For A 3 Day Backpacking Trip

Hitting the trail with nothing but life’s essentials is one of lifes greatest outdoor adventures. Ask yourself a few questions before you start planning out a gear list. How far do you plan to hike? How remote is the location? What’s the weather like? Do you have to deal with bears(you’d need a bear canister, bear spray, etc).

Longer hikes and bad weather require additional gear. You’ll have to carry more clothing, gear, food, and figure out a way to filter water. Here’s a rundown of everything I bring on a backpacking trip. You might need to add additional items depending on the situation and always refer to the 10 essentials below to make sure you’re not forgetting anything.

Keep in mind that this list is deliberately comprehensive. It’s intended for trips deep into the backcountry where you need to be self-sufficient and carry everything in. Remember that loading your pack is a balancing act. You need to try to keep the pack weight low without getting rid of essential items. There are definitely things on this list that you can get rid of to cut weight(I’ll mark these optional).

Here’s a brief list of everything you need and then I’ll go into further detail with lots of optional items.

• 10 Backpacking Essentials (listed below)
• Hiking Boots or Trail Runners (lightweight athletic shoes also work)
• Tent or Other Means of Shelter
• Backpack (40-50 Liters is perfect for weekend trips)
• Sleeping Bag and Pad
• Stove and Fuel
• Food 2-2.5 lbs of food per day including snacks
• Water, water bottle, hydration pack and water filter (purification tabs as backup)
• Weather Appropriate Clothing (don’t need to change clothes everyday)
• Emergency Supplies and Hygiene Essentials
• Small Tent/Gear Repair Kit

Now that I went into the basic list I’ll continue to break it down further below. I’ll give a few product recommendations on harder to choose items. Make sure you print out the printer friendly PDF version for easy use at home.

1) Standard Backpacking Gear

A 30-50 Liter pack is perfect for overnight and short 2-3 day backpacking trips. I would aim more towards a 40-50 liter pack like the Osprey Rook 50 Liter for a 3 day trip. You can carry a bigger pack if you’re on a tight budget, but that adds a lot of unnecessary weight. Plus a half full pack can feel awkward on your back.

Optional Items: Trekking Poles, Compact lantern and flashlight, Tent Footprint, Pillow, Bear Spray, Bear Canister

2) Food and Water

Separate your food into quick snacks for the trail and fully prepared meals. I recommend planning out a few easy meals and packing each days meals separately for easy access. I like to weigh out all my meals and separate everything into ziplock bags.

Bring along lots of snacks to chow down on the trail. Look for high calorie snacks loaded with sugar and fats. Things like energy bars, hard cheese, nuts, jerky, dried fruits, etc. Anything that you can easily munch on to fend off food cravings until you’re ready to cook a real meal.

Planning out your water carrying needs means you’ll have to plan out water sources on a map. I like to plan my meal breaks and campsites around available water sources. As a general recomendation, you should plan on drinking at least 1/2 liter of water (1 Liter in Hot weather) per hour hiking to prevent dehydration.

Make sure you have a way to filter water and a backup method (purification tablets). Please note that water filters can’t remove viruses if you’re traveling in South America, Mexico and less developed parts of the world. A filter is good enough for 99% of the United States.

3) Cooking Supplies

You can really start to overdo it when it comes to cooking supplies. Try to keep your gear light by choosing a titanium pot and pan ( my favorite pot and pan set ), lightweight stove (MSR Pocket Rocket), and lightweight dishes/bowls, and utensils.

4) Clothing and Footwear

Check the weather conditions before heading out and make sure you dress for the conditions. This is one of the sections where you need to take my list as a general guide and plan accordingly. You probably won’t need a jacket/gloves/hat in 80 degree weather or raincoat with 0% chance of rain. Plan out your gear and drop unnecessary items.

Additional Items For Rain and Cold: Rain Jacket/Pants, Long Johns, Fleece Pants, Winter Hat, Gloves/Mittens, Insulated Jacket, Gaiters

Optional Items: sandals, bandana

5) Navigation Equipment

Navigation gear is easily one of the most important categories. I recommend carrying a GPS and waterproof physical map as backup. Note that a GPS isn’t a substitute for a map and compass. You really need to bring all three items

6) Emergency and First Aid

I highly recommend carrying a lightweight emergency shelter and emergency blanket just in case. It might seem like overkill, but 2oz of pack weight could save your life. Who knows what can happen if you hike away from your base camp.

7) Gear Repair

I like to carry a small repair kit to fix my tent, patch sleeping pads, and unclog my stove. The kit can be pretty basic. My entire kit weighs less than 4oz.

8) Health and Hygiene

Must Have Items

9) Sun and Insect Protection

10) backpacking extra items.

There are a bunch of random items that would be impossible to list. You may want to bring dry bags, stuff sacks, pack liners ( compactor bag ), sleeping bag liner, pack raincovers, etc. Only you can decide what’s actually necessary. Remember that pack weights limited and every pound you add slows you down. Pick and choose what you want to carry out of this list.

11)Personal Items

Focus on the 10 essentials for camping and backpacking.

Packing the “Ten Essentials” whenever you step into the backcountry is a good habit. It doesn’t matter if you’re going on an overnight or multi-week trip. You probably don’t need to bring a shelter and sleep system for a day hike, but the rest of the list applies in every backcountry situation.

So, what are the 10 essentials? Navigation, Illumination (Headlamp or Flash Light), Sun Protection, First Aid, Knife, Fire, Shelter, Extra Food, Extra Water, and Insulation(clothing, sleeping bag, rain sheel, gloves, etc). Some lists vary a little by including other safety items and appropriate footwear, but all the basics are there. The 10 essential list is fairly basic, but it includes everything you need to survive in the wilderness.

Let me clarify what I mean by “everything you need to survive”. Packing the 10 essentials will allow you to survive in the backcountry, but that doesn’t mean you will be comfortable. Obviously, you should carry a sleep system (sleeping bag and pad), cooking gear, 40-50 liter pack, toilet paper, etc. but you can survive without it. It would be crazy not to bring comfort items like a sleeping bag and toilet paper on a backpacking trip.

Now that I clarified that, let’s start breaking down the 10 essentials so you can start building up a 3 Day Backpacking Trip Gear List. The gear list above is more complete, but here’s a brief overview of the 10 essentials.

• Navigation: Carry a waterproof map, compass, watch and preplanned itinerary. Leave a copy of your route with a responsible friend or family member just in case you go missing. You may also want to carry a GPS Unit, but don’t rely on that without a map. Bring along your cell phone and portable battery charger as well.
• Sun Protection: Always carry sunscreen, chapstick for lips, and sunglasses. A long sleeve shirt, long pants and hat for sun protection are a great idea as well. I know it’s not sun protection, but don’t forget insect repellant as well.
• Insulation: When discussing insulation we’re mostly talking about clothing and sleeping gear. Separate your insulated gear into 4 categories: things you wear, pack, sleep system, and accessories. Items to Wear: 1 pair of socks, a short sleeve moisture-wicking short, long hiking pants (preferably synthetic), synthetic compression shorts or boxer briefs, and a hat (optional). Packed Clothing: Raincoat/rainpants, lightweight top/bottom, light jacket, long underwear or pajamas to sleep, and 1 extra pair of socks ( Smartwool or Darn Tough Socks ). Sleep System: Sleeping bag rated for the given temperature, sleeping pad to protect against the ground, and sleeping bag liner (optional). Accessories: gloves, rain mitts, winter hat, and jacket depending on weather.
• Illumination: Always carry a headlamp with extra batteries or a way to recharge it. Black Diamond’s Spot Headlamp is an affordable option with a long battery life. Don’t get confused by cheap headlamps ridiculous lumen ratings. First off the ratings are always exaggerated and even if they weren’t a high lumen headlamp will have a terrible battery life.
• First-Aid Supplies: Going into the wilderness without a First-Aid kit is a stupid idea. In 99% of cases you can get by without it, but you don’t want to be stuck without one when you really need it. Adventure Medicals .7oz kit is the perfect place to start. It includes everything you need to repair minor injuries in a lightweight kit. Throw in some anti-chafing cream ( desitin ), a pencil/paper, and a bottle of biodegradable soap( campsuds ).
• Fire: Always carry multiple ways to start a fire. I carry a handful of Bic Lighters and a box of waterproof lighters just in case. You may also want to carry a Fire Starting tool like the Light My Fire Ferro Rod just in case. It weighs a fraction of an oz and fits in my first-aid kit.
• Repair Kit Including a Knife or Multi-tool: I like to carry a small gear kit in my pack including a multi-tool, 10ft of duct tape, and tent repair kit ( this one ), and paracord. That’s all you to repair the vast majority of your gear. Duct tape can get you out of almost any situation.
• Extra Food: Think about how much food you typically eat in a day. Most people eat 1500-2000 calories per day and you need to triple that if you’ll be hiking all day. That’s a lot of food to pack. On a short 3 day weekend backpacking trip I recommend carrying 2.5lbs of food per day. You’re limited by pack weight on longer trips so you might need to drop down to 1.5-2 lbs of food depending on trip length and overall pack weight. Don’t forget to bring lightweight cooking supplies as well.
• Water: You can only haul in so much water in your pack. My 3 Liter Camelbak holds enough water for a 4-5 hour hike, but it isn’t close to enough for a multi-day trip. Plan your backpacking trip around backcountry water sources and make sure you bring a water filter. I have a Sawyer Mini Inline Filter on my hydration bladder tube and carry water purification tablets ( these ones ) and Wide Mouth Nalgene Water Bottle as a backup.
• Tent Or Shelter: You should always bring a tent or tarp, tent stakes, and guylines/cordage to tie it down.

I understand that the 10 essentials list is fairly basic and seems to ignore important items like cooking gear, sleeping bags, sleeping pads, insect repellenet, cell phones, emergency whistles, etc. All of those items are important, but they’re not necessary for survival. I’ll give you a better list of gear in the next section and then go over the 10 essentials in detail later on.

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• Travel Tips

What Should I Pack For A 3-Day Trip

Published: December 4, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Vanya Cavender

• Family Travel
• Plan Your Trip
• Travel Essentials & Accessories

Introduction

Planning for a 3-day trip can be both exciting and overwhelming. Whether you are heading to a tropical destination, exploring a bustling city, or embarking on a weekend getaway, packing the right essentials is crucial for a seamless and enjoyable trip. Deciding what to bring can be a daunting task, but with careful consideration and some expert advice, you can ensure that you have everything you need without being weighed down by unnecessary items.

When it comes to packing for a 3-day trip, it’s important to strike a balance between packing light and being prepared for any situation. You want to have all the essentials without overburdening yourself with excessive luggage. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the must-have items to pack for a 3-day trip. From clothing and toiletries to electronics and entertainment, we’ve got you covered.

Before we dive into the details, it’s important to consider the weather and activities you’ll be participating in during your trip. If you’re heading to a beach destination, pack accordingly with swimwear, sunscreen, and lightweight clothing. If you’re planning to explore a city, comfortable shoes and versatile outfits are a must. Tailor your packing list to suit your destination and planned activities so that you’re prepared for any adventure that comes your way.

Now, let’s take a closer look at the essential items you should pack for a 3-day trip to ensure a stress-free and enjoyable getaway.

Essential Clothing Items

When it comes to packing clothing for a 3-day trip, versatility and comfort should be your top priorities. Select items that can be mixed and matched to create different outfits, allowing you to pack light while still having options for various occasions.

Here are some essential clothing items to consider:

• Tops: Pack a combination of t-shirts, blouses, or button-down shirts that can be easily layered or worn on their own.
• Bottoms: Opt for versatile options such as jeans, shorts, or skirts that can be paired with different tops or dressed up or down as needed.
• Dresses: If you prefer a one-piece option, pack a versatile dress that can be worn casually during the day or dressed up for a night out.
• Outerwear: Depending on the weather, bring a lightweight jacket, cardigan, or sweater for layering in case of cooler temperatures.
• Undergarments: Don’t forget to pack enough underwear and socks to last for the duration of your trip.
• Shoes: Choose comfortable shoes suitable for the activities you have planned. A pair of sneakers or walking shoes are essential for sightseeing, while sandals or heels may be appropriate for evenings out.
• Accessories: Add some flair to your outfits with accessories like scarves, hats, or sunglasses that can elevate your look and protect you from the elements.

Remember to pack clothing that suits the climate of your destination. If you’re heading to a warm and sunny location, don’t forget to pack swimwear and a cover-up. If you expect cooler weather, include a heavier coat or sweater to stay warm.

By selecting versatile clothing items and considering the weather conditions, you can ensure that you have suitable outfits for any occasion without overpacking.

Toiletries and Personal Care

Packing the right toiletries and personal care items is essential for feeling fresh and confident during your 3-day trip. While it’s tempting to bring your entire bathroom cabinet, it’s important to streamline your selection to save space and comply with travel restrictions.

Here are the must-have toiletries and personal care items to pack:

• Toothbrush and toothpaste: Maintain your dental hygiene by packing a travel-sized toothbrush and toothpaste.
• Shampoo and conditioner: Instead of bringing full-sized bottles, transfer your favorite shampoo and conditioner into travel-sized containers.
• Body wash or soap: Opt for a travel-sized body wash or bring a small bar of soap for quick and easy cleansing.
• Deodorant: Stay fresh throughout your trip by packing a travel-sized deodorant or antiperspirant.
• Skincare products: Bring travel-sized versions of your favorite cleanser, moisturizer, and sunscreen to maintain your skincare routine.
• Makeup essentials: Pack your go-to makeup products for touch-ups and enhancing your natural features. Stick to essentials like foundation, mascara, and lipstick to keep your makeup bag compact.
• Hair care products: Include travel-sized bottles of your preferred hair care products, such as hair spray or styling gel, to keep your locks looking their best.
• Personal hygiene items: Don’t forget to pack essentials like a razor, menstrual products, and any necessary medications.
• Towels and washcloths: Depending on your accommodation, you might need to bring your own towels and washcloths. Check in advance or consider quick-drying microfiber towels for added convenience.

Remember to comply with travel regulations when it comes to liquid restrictions and pack these items in a clear, resealable bag. If you prefer, you can also purchase travel-sized versions of many toiletries or decant your favorite products into travel-friendly containers.

By packing only the essentials and considering travel restrictions, you can ensure that you have the necessary toiletries and personal care items without adding unnecessary bulk to your luggage.

Electronics and Gadgets

In today’s digital age, electronics and gadgets have become indispensable travel companions. From capturing memorable moments to staying connected with loved ones, these devices play a crucial role in enhancing your travel experience.

Here are the essential electronics and gadgets to consider packing for your 3-day trip:

• Smartphone: Your smartphone is a multi-purpose device that can serve as a communication tool, camera, map, and more. Don’t forget to bring your charger or a portable power bank to keep your phone charged throughout the day.
• Camera: If you prefer higher quality photos, consider bringing a dedicated camera. Compact point-and-shoot cameras or mirrorless cameras are great options.
• Tablet or e-reader: If you enjoy reading or want to watch movies or shows on a larger screen, consider bringing a tablet or e-reader.
• Laptop: If you anticipate needing to work or want to stream content in your downtime, bringing a laptop might be beneficial. However, for a short trip, you may opt to leave it behind to save space.
• Headphones: Whether you prefer wired or wireless options, a good pair of headphones is essential for listening to music, podcasts, or watching movies during your journey.
• Universal travel adapter: If you’re traveling internationally, a universal travel adapter will allow you to charge your devices without worrying about compatibility.
• Portable speaker: If you enjoy listening to music or podcasts, a portable speaker can enhance your enjoyment, especially during downtime in your accommodation.
• Portable game console: If you’re a fan of gaming, consider bringing a portable game console for entertainment during travel or relaxation at your destination.

Remember to pack these electronics and gadgets securely in a dedicated case or protective sleeve to minimize the risk of damage. Additionally, ensure that you have all necessary charging cables and accessories for each device.

While electronics are essential, it’s important to find a balance between staying connected and enjoying your travel experience. Disconnecting from technology from time to time can allow you to fully immerse yourself in your destination.

Medications and First Aid Kit

When traveling, it’s important to be prepared for any unforeseen circumstances or minor health issues that may arise. Packing a well-stocked first aid kit and any necessary medications will ensure that you are ready to handle common ailments and emergencies during your 3-day trip.

Here are some essential items to include in your medications and first aid kit:

• Prescription medications: If you take any prescription medications, ensure that you have enough to last your entire trip. It’s advisable to carry them in their original packaging along with a copy of the prescription.
• Over-the-counter medications: Include essentials such as pain relievers, antihistamines, cough and cold medicines, and any other medications specific to your needs.
• Adhesive bandages: Pack a variety of sizes to treat minor cuts and blisters.
• Gauze pads and adhesive tape: These are essential for dressing wounds or applying pressure to control bleeding.
• Antiseptic wipes or solution: Use these to clean wounds and prevent infection.
• Tweezers and scissors: These tools come in handy for removing splinters, cutting bandages, or making other necessary adjustments.
• Digital thermometer: A compact and reliable thermometer can help you monitor your temperature if you suspect illness.
• Hand sanitizer: Keep your hands clean and germ-free, especially when soap and water are not readily available.
• Personal medications: If you have any specific personal medications such as allergy or asthma inhalers, make sure to pack them as well.

Additionally, check if your destination requires any specific vaccinations or if there are any health advisories. It may be necessary to pack insect repellent, sunscreen, or any other items recommended for your specific destination.

Remember to familiarize yourself with the contents of your first aid kit and how to use them properly. Having a basic knowledge of first aid can make a significant difference in handling minor injuries or illnesses that may occur during your trip.

By being prepared with the necessary medications and a well-stocked first aid kit, you can travel with peace of mind, knowing that you are ready to handle any health-related situations that may arise.

Entertainment and Miscellaneous Items

While the primary purpose of your 3-day trip may be relaxation or exploration, it’s important to have some entertainment options and miscellaneous items to enhance your overall experience. These items can help you pass the time, stay organized, and make your journey more enjoyable.

Here are some entertainment and miscellaneous items you may want to pack:

• Books or e-reader: If you enjoy reading, pack a book or load up your e-reader with your favorite titles.
• Travel journal and pen: Capture your memories and jot down your experiences in a travel journal. It’s a great way to reflect on your trip and keep a record of your adventures.
• Playing cards or travel games: Pack a deck of cards or small, portable travel games to enjoy with your travel companions or to meet new friends along the way.
• Photography equipment: If you’re passionate about photography, consider bringing a tripod or additional lenses to capture the beauty of your destination.
• Travel pillow and blanket: For long journeys or flights, a comfortable travel pillow and cozy blanket can make a significant difference in your comfort and help you get some rest.
• Portable charger: Keep your electronic devices powered up throughout the day by bringing a portable charger. This ensures that you won’t be left without battery life when you need it most.
• Travel adapter: If you’re traveling to a different country, a travel adapter is essential to ensure compatibility with different power outlets.
• Reusable water bottle: Staying hydrated is important while traveling. Bring a reusable water bottle that you can refill throughout the day.
• Snacks: Pack some healthy snacks like granola bars, dried fruits, or nuts to satisfy hunger pangs between meals or during transit.
• Ziplock bags: These versatile bags come in handy for storing snacks, keeping belongings organized, or keeping wet clothes separate from dry items.

Remember to pack these items strategically to ensure easy access when needed. Place entertainment items in your carry-on bag or a convenient pocket for quick retrieval during your journey.

These entertainment and miscellaneous items are meant to enhance your travel experience and provide added convenience. Adapt the list according to your personal preferences and the specific activities you plan to engage in during your 3-day trip.

Travel Documents and Money

When it comes to traveling, ensuring that you have all the necessary documents and money in order is crucial for a hassle-free trip. From identification to payment methods, it’s important to keep these items organized and secure throughout your journey.

Here are the essential travel documents and money-related items to pack:

• Passport or ID: Depending on your destination, ensure that you have a valid passport or identification card with you. Check the expiration date well in advance of your trip and renew if necessary.
• Travel tickets and itineraries: Pack printed or digital copies of your travel tickets, hotel reservations, and any other relevant itineraries. This ensures easy access and reference throughout your trip.
• Visas: If your destination requires a visa, make sure you have the necessary documentation and that your visa is valid for your intended travel dates.
• Health insurance information: If you have travel health insurance, carry the necessary documents and contact information in case of any medical emergencies.
• Credit cards and cash: Bring a combination of credit cards and cash in the local currency of your destination. It’s good practice to have some cash on hand for smaller expenses and in case of any issues with card payments.
• Money belt or travel wallet: To keep your travel documents and money secure, consider using a money belt or a travel wallet that can be worn under your clothing.
• Emergency contact information: Have a written list of emergency contact numbers for your local embassy or consulate, as well as any important contacts at your destination.
• Travel insurance: If you have travel insurance, carry a copy of your policy documents and take note of the contact information for any necessary insurance claims or assistance.
• Driver’s license: If you plan on renting a car or driving during your trip, make sure to bring your driver’s license along with any necessary international driving permits.

It’s crucial to keep these important documents and money secure and easily accessible. Consider making digital copies and storing them in a secure cloud-based platform or emailing them to yourself as a backup.

Organize your travel documents in a travel organizer or folder to keep them together and easily accessible. Be mindful of pickpockets and keep your belongings close to you, especially in crowded areas or on public transportation.

By ensuring that you have all the necessary travel documents and payment methods in order, you can travel with peace of mind, knowing that you are prepared for any situations that may arise during your 3-day trip.

Snacks and Food Items

When embarking on a 3-day trip, having snacks and food items on hand can help keep hunger at bay, save you money on expensive airport or convenience store snacks, and provide you with a taste of home while exploring new destinations. Packing the right snacks and food items ensures that you have nourishment and energy throughout your journey.

Here are some important considerations when packing snacks and food items:

• Non-perishable snacks: Opt for snacks that have a long shelf life and are not easily crushed. Some examples include granola bars, trail mix, dried fruits, and nuts. These snacks are convenient, provide sustenance, and can be easily packed in your carry-on bag or daypack.
• Portable fruits: Choose fruits that can withstand being packed and transported, such as apples, oranges, or bananas. They not only provide essential vitamins and fiber but also serve as a refreshing snack during your trip.
• Pre-packed meals: If you prefer to have a prepared meal during your journey, consider packing pre-packed meals such as sandwiches, wraps, or salads in leak-proof containers. This is especially useful for long flights or train rides where meal options may be limited.
• Beverages: Stay hydrated by bringing a refillable water bottle and filling it up once you pass through airport security. Additionally, consider packing individual packets of powdered drink mix or tea bags to enjoy a refreshing beverage on the go.
• Utensils and napkins: Include disposable utensils, napkins, and wet wipes for convenient and hygienic snacking.
• Special dietary requirements: If you have specific dietary needs or restrictions, pack snacks and food items that cater to those requirements. This ensures that you have suitable options available during your journey.
• Local delicacies: When visiting a new destination, consider researching and packing some local snacks or delicacies that are unique to the region. This allows you to experience the local cuisine and adds an extra element of excitement to your trip.

Be mindful of any customs or regulations regarding bringing certain food items into your destination. Some countries have strict regulations on importing fresh fruits, vegetables, or meat products, so it’s important to familiarize yourself with those guidelines before packing.

Packing snacks and food items not only saves you money but also ensures that you have convenient and familiar options during your journey. It’s an opportunity to try new flavors or enjoy the comfort of your favorite treats while exploring new destinations.

Transportation and Luggage

Transportation and luggage are essential aspects of any trip, as they determine how you navigate through your destination and carry your belongings. A well-thought-out approach to transportation and efficient packing can make your 3-day trip more convenient and enjoyable.

Here are some important considerations for transportation and luggage:

• Choosing the right luggage: Select a suitcase or backpack that is suitable for a 3-day trip and adheres to the airline’s size and weight restrictions. Opt for lightweight and durable options that provide ample space for your essentials.
• Organizing your belongings: Utilize packing cubes or compression bags to keep your clothing and items organized within your luggage. This makes it easier to find what you need without unpacking everything.
• Consider your transportation mode: Take into account the mode of transportation you will be using during your trip. If you’re flying, be mindful of the liquid restrictions and pack any necessary liquids or toiletries accordingly. If you’re taking a train or bus, choose a smaller carry-on bag that is easy to maneuver and fits within the provided storage space.
• Minimize what you pack: Pack only what is necessary for your 3-day trip. Avoid overpacking by selecting versatile clothing items that can be mixed and matched, and only bringing essential toiletries and electronics.
• Bring a day bag: Pack a small day bag or backpack that can be used for day trips or as a carry-on item during your journey. This bag should be large enough to fit your essentials, such as a water bottle, snacks, a camera, and any other items you may need while exploring.
• Consider luggage security: Invest in luggage locks or TSA-approved lock mechanisms to ensure the security of your belongings during transit. Additionally, consider using luggage tags with your contact information for easy identification.
• Transportation tickets and maps: Keep your transportation tickets, boarding passes, and any maps or directions easily accessible in a designated pocket or folder. This helps streamline your travel experience and ensures that you have important documents readily available when needed.
• Research transportation options at your destination: Prior to your trip, research the transportation options available at your destination. This includes public transportation systems, car rental services, or rideshare apps like Uber or Lyft. Familiarize yourself with the routes and schedules to make navigation easier once you arrive.

Remember to pack any necessary chargers or adapters for your electronic devices, especially if you’ll be using them during your journey. Keep valuable items, such as passports, travel documents, and electronics, in your carry-on bag for easy access and added security.

By strategically planning your transportation and packing your luggage efficiently, you can ensure a smooth and stress-free travel experience during your 3-day trip.

As you prepare for your 3-day trip, packing the right essentials is key to ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable journey. By considering the clothing items, toiletries, electronics, medications, entertainment options, travel documents, snacks, and transportation needs, you can be well-prepared for any adventure that awaits.

Remember to pack versatile clothing items that can be mixed and matched, allowing you to create different outfits while keeping your luggage light. Bring essential toiletries and personal care items, considering the regulations and restrictions that may apply to liquids.

Don’t forget to bring the necessary electronics and gadgets for capturing memories and staying connected while on the go. Ensure you pack any necessary medications and a first aid kit to handle any minor health issues that may arise during your trip.

Entertainment and miscellaneous items such as books, travel journals, and portable speakers can enhance your travel experience and provide added convenience. Keep all your travel documents, including your passport, identification, travel tickets, and insurance information, organized and easily accessible.

Consider packing snacks and food items to keep you nourished and hydrated throughout your journey. Lastly, choose the right luggage and consider transportation options for seamless navigation at your destination.

By being prepared and packing thoughtfully, you can embark on your 3-day trip with confidence, knowing that you have everything you need. Enjoy your adventure, create lasting memories, and savor every moment of your travel experience!

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What To Pack for a 3 Day Trip

Almost all of us have realized at some point that we forgot something back home. May it be something small like perfume or a piece of clothing, or something more disastrous, like a cellphone charger. Check out these tips and make sure you refer to them anytime you get ready for a short vacation – this will help you avoid any mishaps!

Table of Contents

What not to forget to pack, what to pack for a 3-day trip, what to pack for a 3-day business trip, what to pack for a 3-day beach trip, final reminders.

Make sure you take all your necessary documents and wallet, as they are most important to your trip. Don’t forget to bring a credit card (in a wallet with RFID protection of course), a backup, and cash!

Don’t forget to take your phone and charger! It also helps to bring a power bank, in case your gadget runs out of juice.

Next, pack clothes, including underwear, socks or stockings, and sleepwear.

Toiletries are also essential, so no matter where you go, double-check that you have the following: toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, comb.

Others prefer to use the toiletries some hotels provide for them, but if you want to, bring your soap, shower gel, and a favorite shampoo.

It is up to you and depends on the size of your luggage.

For women, do not forget to pack all your makeup necessities: foundation, lipstick, blush, mascara, and whatever else you deem important. Also ensure you get your makeup removal tools.

Check out this black makeup storage to help you out with efficient packing.

Another option would be this fantastic makeup and jewelry bag , which is spacious inside, yet remarkably compact.

Even though this might be a short trip, having a small supply of medication (such as pain relievers) can become extremely handy in an emergency, so place them carefully in your luggage.

• Other gadgets

If you’re bringing your laptop, tablet, or camera, don’t forget the chargers.

Keep in mind that, if you are going abroad to a country with different power outlets, such as the United Kingdom, you might also need adaptors for your chargers.

Here is a short checklist for other items that you may need in your 3-day trip luggage:

• Travel pillows for lengthier travels
• Contact lens, case and solution
• Hand sanitizer
• Maps and itinerary
• Food or snacks

These are the main articles you should make sure you include in your luggage, no matter where you are headed.

Keep reading for a more detailed guide based on the purpose of your trip.

Packing for a business trip is not as easy as it seems, especially when you try to keep a clean, neat appearance, have a versatile look – all in a small piece of luggage.

Make sure you adapt your wardrobe choices to have skirts/pants in only one dark color, such as black, blue, or even brown.

The same color will help you to carry a limited number of matching accessories – such as a pair of shoes (maximum two.), one belt and so on.

The blazer/jacket/tops are now easy to choose when they all need to match the dark pants color.

Bring a hair tie or two, to keep your locks neat in case you’re in a hurry.

It’s time to consider other supplies. Do not forget your electronics (laptop/phone), their chargers.

You can also bring stationery if needed: pens, paper clips, notepads, sticky pads, and pencils. Make sure you don’t overstock on them – you won’t need 5 pens, 2 of them maximum will do. The same goes for other office supplies.

Lastly, make sure you include your business cards – they might come in handy!

Finally, the exciting beach trip you’ve been waiting for is here! Keep reading to find out what you should pack for the best beach experience.

Apart from your necessary items listed above, a beach trip is a special occasion, so you will need bathing suits and water shoes , flip-flops or beach-friendly sandals. Make sure you have a decent number of dresses, T-shirts, and shorts, but also pack a hat or two for sun protection, coupled with matching sunglasses.

In terms of toiletries, you might want to make sure you don’t forget the sun lotion. Sun protection will be vital at the beach, as sunburn can easily ruin your experience. You might also want to add some cream for burns in your medications, in case it happens. Additionally, after-sun cream will also help your skin to remain moisturized.

Apart from this, make sure all the clothes you pack are light and summery. A beach bag is also a necessity; aim for one which is bright and colorful (to be easy to find on the beach), but also waterproof wherein you can keep your phone and other valuables away from water and sand.

You could also opt to include some wet wipes, as they might come in handy getting rid of all the sand. Lastly, you might want to take some disposable bags with you, where you can put in food on the way to the beach or use them to separate the wet towels from other articles on your way back to the hotel.

Lastly, don’t over cram your luggage – you can call the hotel and check whether they provide towels or any other beach accessories you might need. This can help you leave the stuffy articles at home and make use of the hotel’s provisions.

For more useful insights into packing tips for vacations , check out our post.

Looking for more packing tips? Read more on our blog!

• Traveling with expensive jewelry
• Packing makeup for air travel
• Can I bring sunscreen on a plane?

Share with us your tips for what to pack for a 3 day trip! What are your must-haves and reminders before leaving the house?

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What Do I Pack for a Three-Day Work Trip?

There will be handshakes, huddles, and pitches, early starts and late nights. You might get to visit the gym. Here’s everything you’ll need.

You know the score. It’s a classic three-day, two-night work trip, punctuated by meetings, working lunches, and dinners out. There will be handshakes, huddles, and pitches, early starts and late nights. You might get to visit the gym, maybe see a friend from college, or spend a free afternoon exploring a new city—but don’t bank on it.

Packing a carry-on to cover all of the above is hard. I’ve spent the past decade trying to perfect it (with occasional success), and the one thing I’ve learned is that, in this instance, personal style needs to be reframed through the prism of efficiency. Sounds dry, but hear me out.

If you’re taking a flight, moving all day, jumping in and out of cabs, and going straight from work to dinner, you need clothes that can go reliably unnoticed through all of it. Looking cool is great, I spend most of my time trying to do just that, but when it comes to clothing, “cool” often means uncomfortable, heavy, hot, or conspicuous—four attributes you don’t want from your outfit in this situation.

Unlike packing for a vacation, packing for a work trip requires military precision. You need a concise, multitool edit of uncomplicated yet stylish stuff that can be mixed and matched to maximum effect, adapting easily to shifts in climate, schedule, and mood. I spoke to Mats Klingberg, founder of the menswear boutique Trunk Clothiers (and a master of elegant business attire), on this very subject. He had just returned from a trip that started in 10-degree Canada and finished in 90-degree St. Barths. He took a single carry-on.

That sounds extreme, but the single carry-on is common among serious travelers. With this guide, you needn’t be a grizzled road warrior to benefit from some hard-earned lessons.

The first port of call should be a suit in a soft, non-shiny fabric. The cloth is crucial because it needs to be comfortable all day and work when you break the suit into separates (more on that later). You could go for one of the many “travel” suits on the market—high-twist wool makes them water repellent and wrinkle-free—but unless all your time will be spent in the C-suite, I’d recommend something in a cotton twill or textured hopsack, like this Thom Sweeney suit , or in a mix of cotton, linen, wool, and/or silk, like this cotton-linen blend by J. Crew . Navy is the logical go-to color; I’d avoid black or charcoal, which are both too drab. If you’re feeling bold, you might try a dusty green or even a slubby brown. The Neapolitan tailor De Petrillo would be good for that. Pack a travel steamer, just in case.

Next, a poplin shirt you can wear with a tie—I love the striped shirts at Budd —and then a more casual chambray shirt ( try Sid Mashburn ) that you can also wear with a tie but that looks even better without one. In terms of the tie, a plain knit number will suffice. Nothing chunky and loud; you want simple and textured. The British brand Percival’s woven linen ties are perfect .

You already have two looks, and we’re just getting started.

In terms of footwear, you need one pair that will work with everything. I’d opt for black penny loafers . I’m a Paraboot devotee , but you could also go with a chunky derby , either in brown suede or black leather . Another option: a great pair of Chelsea boots , which would be handy at the TSA line. It’s up to you. But you just need a pair of shoes that won’t look mismatched with mid-blue, regular-fit jeans , which you will also need to pack. These can come from anywhere, but Levi’s 501’s are still pretty hard to beat. If you want a substantial pair, head to Orslow for 107’s . Whichever brand you prefer, make sure they finish at or above your shoes and don’t puddle over.

Now you need an alternative to the suit jacket, which is where a good chore coat comes in handy. You probably won’t wear it with a shirt and tie, but it’s nice to have the option, and it will be more comfortable on travel days. Brunello Cucinelli and Loro Piana make luxurious versions of the format. If you don’t want to break the bank, visit Mr Porter for its Mr P. collection or the Swedish brand A Day’s March . Milan’s Massimo Alba would be a good choicr, too.

Next, a white crew-neck tee , maybe two (or one in white, one in navy, or perhaps even a vest to peek out from under the chambray shirt), and an open-collar knit polo that you can wear on its own or underneath the blazer. The polo is great because it’s not as golfy as a classic polo, and right now you can find them everywhere. Abercrombie & Fitch has one with what it calls a “Johnny collar,” but I’d point you in the direction of Sunspel’s fine rib silk-cotton polo , which is lighter and a little slicker. If it’s going to be chilly, consider making the polo long-sleeve.

Now you just need underwear (three pairs, max), socks , and workout clothes . Be sparing with the latter; you probably won’t work out as much as you think. This is where your second pair of shoes come in—if you can bring running sneakers that don’t look terrible with the jeans (such as ASICS’s Trabuco Max III ), all the better.

If it’s going to be really hot, you could opt for a suit in seersucker or a linen mix. (Pure linen will crease too much.) Make sure it’s unlined. Officine Generale is great for warm-weather suiting. And maybe bring an extra pair of lightweight pants and some swim trunks .

If the forecast says rain, pack a simple raincoat. Burberry still makes the best . And if it’s going to be really cold, you could keep the raincoat and add a quilted down or fleece vest underneath, or swap it out completely for a proper wool overcoat, like this one by Lemaire . Then pack a thick-gauge scarf or a beanie (nothing too chunky or branded), but not both—they never look good together. Acne Studios is fine for either.

Now just the finishing touches. A steel watch would be good. I love the compact functionality of Tudor’s 37mm Black Bay 54 and the mid-century charm of Nivada Grenchen’s Super Antarctic (on a Twist-o-Flex strap, ideally). You might want to pack a baseball cap, too. And you will definitely want sunglasses—for me, black acetate always—even if there’s no chance of sun. That red-eye home can be brutal.

How to Wear It

Traveling Out and Arrival Day: Jeans, loafers, T-shirt, chore coat plus overcoat/raincoat. Comfortable enough for traveling and, if you swap the tee for a shirt, smart enough for casual afternoon meetings and/or dinner.

Day Two: Suit, shirt, tie, loafers, overcoat/raincoat.

Day Three: Suit pants, knit polo/chambray shirt, chore coat (if necessary), loafers, overcoat/raincoat.

Day Four and Traveling Home: Suit jacket (switch to chore coat at the airport), white tee, jeans, loafers (switch to sneakers at the airport), overcoat, beanie, sunglasses.

(Watch on at all times.)

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Rogue Panda Alamo Top Tube Bag Review: Three Sizes, Two Straps

By Miles Arbour

Associate Editor & Events Manager

1,885 Posts

Almost a decade after their original release, the redesigned Rogue Panda Alamo top tube bags use a new attachment system that eliminates the need for a head tube strap. They’re compatible with straps and bolt-on setups and come in three stock sizes. Miles has been testing them ahead of today’s release to see just how sturdy the new design is. Find his Rogue Panda Alamo Top Tube Bag review here…

PUBLISHED Sep 9, 2024

Top tube bags are one of the most versatile and handy additions to any bike setup, whether bikepacking or just zipping around town. They are accessible while riding, making them a great spot to stash small cameras, phones, snacks, and other quick-access items. They are also almost always universal, meaning there are a few reasons why any top tube bag won’t work with your particular kit.

Almost every bag maker out there makes some kind of top-tube-mounted bag. Most feature a simple zippered opening, but there are also magnetic flaps, roll-tops, and other unique designs that add stability, organization, or extra storage. However, saying that all top tube bags are created equal would be a miss. These days, some of the more prominent brands have taken it upon themselves to move away from the standard three straps (two on the top tube and one around the steerer tube) and innovate with magnets, rubberized mounting blocks, and adjustable bolt-on designs for a strap-free setup.

A month ago, Nick Smolinske, panda-in-chief at Rogue Panda Designs in Flagstaff, Arizona, reached out with news of a complete redesign of their Alamo top tube bag lineup in three sizes. He promised a new bolt or strap-on attachment system that adds notable stability and eliminates the need for a steerer tube strap. Curious to see how the new design would compare to a traditional top tube bag, I had the chance to test out all three sizes before today’s launch.

Next Gen Rogue Panda Alamo

Named after the Alamo Canyon, a section of the Arizona Trail known for its stunning singletrack and impressive views of Picketpost Mountain, the Alamo is Rogue Panda’s take on the top tube bag. It was first launched in 2015 and has seen many minor updates since then, but they’ve been mostly manufacturing improvements. Last year, Rogue Panda upgraded the zippers and added the largest Gordito Grande size option. The Alamo comes in three size options: Regular, Gordo, and Gordito Grande, stock color/fabric options, and well as made-to-order versions with several different colors, patterns, and even custom-printed fabrics to showcase your own designs.

At first glance, the redesigned Alamo looks like any other top tube bag. It has an unremarkable shape, a single oversized molded-tooth zipper, internal HDPE side panels for structure, and internal padding on all frame contact points to protect your contents and reduce unwanted rattling while riding. Until today, the Alamo used a rubberized daisy chain paired with removable/adjustable velcro straps along the base and on the front of the bag to attach it to the bike. This is pretty much the standard for most top tube bags, and it works, but they are more susceptible to rocking and wiggling, and not all cockpit/stem setups leave room for a third steerer tube strap.

The latest Alamo Top Tube Bag maintains most of these features but sees a complete redesign of the attachment system itself, eliminating the need for a third steerer tube strap and relying on an interesting combined bolt-on/strap-on system that should make it compatible with pretty much any type of bike. Instead of a daisy chain, the base of the Alamo has various bolt holes and slots that match up with your choice of straps or bolts for frames with top tube bosses. Each bag has three sets of bolt holes, providing up to 1″ (25mm) of adjustment along the top tube.

For added stability, Rogue Panda includes two rubberized TPU spacers between the bag’s base and the bike’s top tube. The spacer is slotted to accept velcro straps, with a flat bag-facing side and a curved bike-facing side. Rogue Panda explained the switch to TPU spacers means the front strap is positioned further toward the front of the bag, so they include an additional long strap in case you need to wrap it around both the top tube and the down tube. The TPU spacers aren’t required for bolt-on setups.

While the side panels are reinforced with thin HDPE panels, the base of the bag has a thicker, more rigid plastic sheet. The strap slots and bolt holes are cut all the way through the base fabric, inner fabric, and plastic. The inside is covered with a padded base connected at the small end of the bag and held in place with a small elastic at the wider end.

As expected, the Alamo is handmade at Rogue Panda’s workshop in Flagstaff, which includes the rubberized straps that are sewn together in-house. The TPU spacers are the only component not made by Rogue Panda and are ordered from China.

Trail-Tested

Having used my fair share of floppy top tube bags, I was skeptical that Rogue Panda’s Alamo revamp would hold up on rough terrain. The short story is I was pleasantly surprised. There are a few tricks worth noting to achieve a solid, wiggle-free installation. First, the velcro straps must be pulled very tightly. Rogue Panda told me “not to be shy” when tightening the straps. And, as the foam compresses and straps stress out, they might require re-tightening a few times after the first installation.

The TPU spacers have a grippy, flexible feel that does an excellent job of gripping and conforming to the top tube. Paired with Rogue Panda’s velcro straps, backed with a rubberized material, and a cinchable plastic D-loop buckle on one end, there is plenty of grip to keep the bag from moving around. However, this is only true if the straps are pulled tight. Despite having no problems with bag movement, even on rough singletrack, I did find myself knocking the bag out of position a few times during awkward dismounts or crashes. I don’t think a steerer tube strap would have helped in situations like these, but two points of contact have its limitations sometimes. When bolted on, the Alamo requires no adjustment aside from tightening the screws themselves and is just as stable thanks to the oversized washers Rogue Panda includes with each bag.

An added bonus of using the TPU spacers is gaining about 10mm of clearance between the base of the bag and the top tube. This means the only contact points are the rubberized sides of the straps and the TPU spacers, which means fewer chances of marking up your frame’s paint job compared to installing the bag directly on the frame. The extra clearance also leaves more room for frame bag straps, which can sometimes get in the way of traditional top tube bags.

Having mostly used top tube bags that require some sort of steerer tube strap or stabilizer , not having to worry about a third strap has been freeing. I’ve always hated how busy the cockpit area gets when running multiple feed bags, a top tube bag, and some kind of handlebar bag. Not only is it awkward to figure out strap position and routing, but it can often restrict handlebar rotation, which can be frustrating when riding technical singletrack. The Alamo’s TPU spacers allow you to position the bag as close or as far away from the stem as you’d like without any noticeable drawbacks.

Aside from the fancy, new-age TPU spacers, all three sizes of the Alamo are kept quite minimal. There are no exterior or interior pockets, which I’ve never really been a fan of, and the only other “feature” is a simple cable port on the front of the bag. The port is accessed from the bottom and is stitched into the bag’s main seams along the side and top, which should do a good job of keeping the elements out. I didn’t get a chance to ride in the rain with it, but I’m willing to bet it’s extremely weather-resistant (not waterproof) like most other stitched top tube bags out there.

When it comes to zippers, I say the bigger, the better. The big molded-tooth zippers found on the Alamo are the same style used on their frame bags (including the custom bag they made for the Kona Hei Hei I reviewed), and it runs smooth enough to operate easily with one hand. It also runs nearly the full length of the bag, which means it’s easy to open wide and access small items that find themselves hiding toward the shorter, tapered end. The grey interior might not be as bright as some bags I’ve used, but it’s bright enough to find what you need inside.

Alamo Goes Custom

The redesigned Alamo top tube bag has allowed Rogue Panda to take a closer look at offering custom-length bags. Founder Nick Smolinske explained that before this update, they built custom jigs for each bag size to ensure the daisy chain and bar tacks were perfectly aligned, so offering a custom size meant making a custom jig or forgoing the jig and sacrificing quality. The new design allows all parts to be laser cut in-house, so the only real barrier is the time required to design the custom-length bag. This is still an issue, but Nick will be automating that step with some custom software. The plan is to get custom-length Alamo top tube bags up and running this fall. We’ll be sure to share the news when they’re ready.

Neil’s Rogue Panda Alamo Review

Neil also had the chance to test out the Alamo top tube bags ahead of today’s launch, and most of our feedback aligns closely. Watch the video he put together for a closer look at some details and additional thoughts from Neil.

• Capacity: 0.9L (Regular), 1.5L (Gordo), 2.5L (Gordito Grande)
• Weight (no hardware/mounts): 106g/3.7oz (Regular), 147g/5.2oz (Gordo), 166g/5.9oz (Gordito Grande)
• Hardware Weight: 26g/0.9oz (two straps + two TPU blocks)
• Material (as tested): X-Pac, HDPE, Ripstop
• Place of Manufacture: Arizona, USA
• Price: $75 (Regular), $90 (Gordo), $110 (Gordito Grande)
• Manufacturer’s Details: RoguePanda.com
• Stable design, despite not having a steerer tube strap
• Three sizes, including an extra large Gordito Grande option
• Readymade and made-to-order options, including custom-printed fabrics
• No effect on handlebar/stem movement
• Unique ideas in a crowded corner of the bag world
• Straps require re-tightening several times before being completely solid
• On narrow cylindrical tubes, it’s possible to knock the bag out of place
• Expensive (but comparable to other handmade top tube bags)

Further Reading

Make sure to dig into these related articles for more info...

Rogue Panda Blue Ridge Handlebar Harness Review

Rogue Panda Ripsey Seat Bag Review

2023 Bikepacking Gear of the Year

Editor’s Dozen: Miles and Emily’s Favorite Gear of 2024 (Summer)

Custom Printed Bags from Rogue Panda Designs

Guide to Custom Frame Bags: Everything You Need to Know

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How A Bag Of Cheetos Unleashed Chaos In A Fragile US Cave Ecosystem

The incident at carlsbad caverns national park, highlights the damaging effects of littering on fragile ecosystems..

Carlsbad Caverns National Park is one of New Mexicos biggest tourist attractions.

It's a known fact that single-use plastic waste people leave behind after outdoor events and activities has a detrimental effect on the environment. No matter if it is a plain, a riverside, a desert, or a hilltop, it seems travellers have left behind plastic waste in all natural locations. Littering is emerging as a huge problem that is threatening these locations for their fragile ecology and aesthetic value.

Last week at Carlsbad Caverns National Park, in United States, one visitor tossed away an open bag of Cheetos. It served as a snack for the mould of the cave. One of the most visited places in New Mexico, the cave in the park welcomed almost 400,000 visitors last year.

In response, park rangers painstakingly removed mould and microbial growth along the path leading to the cave, which is biggest cave chamber by volume in North America-for 20 minutes. And all this was because of the bag of Cheetos dropped by the careless visitor.

The National Park's social media account now shared a statement regarding the incident, explaining that we affect the world around us in subtle ways, whether it be purposeful or not.

The post reads, "To the owner of the snack bag, the impact is likely incidental. But to the ecosystem of the cave, it had a huge impact."

"The processed corn, softened by the humidity of the cave, formed the perfect environment to host microbial life and fungi. Cave crickets, mites, spiders, and flies soon organise into a temporary food web, dispersing the nutrients to the surrounding caves and formations. Moulds spread higher up the nearby surfaces, fruit, die, and stink. And the cycle continues."

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"Rangers spent twenty minutes carefully removing the foreign debris and moulds from the cave surfaces. Some members of this fleeting ecosystem are cave dwellers, but many of the microbial life and moulds are not. At the scale of human perspective, a spilt snack bag may seem trivial, but to the life of the cave, it can be world-changing. Great or small, we all leave an impact wherever we go. Let us all leave the world a better place than we found it."

This eye-opening incident is a reminder that our reliance on convenience comes at a significant cost to the planet, and mindful travel is more important than ever.

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Dagne Dover’s Excellent Travel Bags Are 35 Percent Off at Nordstrom

Dagne Dover’s roomy, squishy neoprene bags are beloved by Strategist staffers and readers and in-the-know travelers we’ve spoken with over the years .  They’re not cheap, though, which is why we tend to keep an eye out for discounts. As part of Nordstrom’s Summer Sale , which ends tomorrow night, September 10, the brand’s Landon duffel (which is ideal for  weekend trips  or for using as a  personal item  on the plane) is 35 percent off right now. That brings the price down to a very reasonable $140 from the original $215.

If you’ve already got a Landon or are in the market for a smaller bag to stash your passport and phone in while traveling, Dagne Dover’s belt bags and cross-bodies are discounted as part of the same sale. I own the belt bag and can attest that it’s the perfect size for keeping boarding passes, cash, and tech items safe. It’s also unobtrusive enough that you can hide it under a coat or sweater to evade pickpockets or airline staff looking to enforce extra baggage fees at the gate.

The Strategist  is designed to surface useful, expert recommendations for things to buy across the vast e-commerce landscape. Every product is independently selected by our team of editors, whom you can read about  here . We update links when possible, but note that deals can expire and all prices are subject to change.

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Planning a trip to Bengaluru? Here’s your detailed 3-day itinerary

Times of India TIMESOFINDIA.COM / TRAVEL TRENDS , BANGALORE / Created : Sep 10, 2024, 17:20 IST

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Here, we have come up with a detailed 3-day itinerary for Bengaluru. So, if you have been planning a visit to this place for a long time, refer to this and hopefully you will be able to experience the best of Bengaluru if you mana … Read more

Here, we have come up with a detailed 3-day itinerary for Bengaluru. So, if you have been planning a visit to this place for a long time, refer to this and hopefully you will be able to experience the best of Bengaluru if you manage your time right. Read less

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Here, we have come up with a detailed 3-day itinerary for Bengaluru. So, if you have been planning a visit to this place for a long time, refer to this and hopefully you will be able to experience the...