Getting away for the weekend is often the breath of fresh air you need to regroup and relax for a bit. Packing for a short break isn’t as complicated as it is to get ready for a bigger trip, but it still takes planning.
Unless you want to run to the local department store every time you realize you forgot something, you have to prepare ahead for your getaway. Make your list, check it twice, and then double-check that you packed everything on it!
As you’re filling your suitcase with everything you’ll need, be sure to add these essential items.
1. Your Safety and Security Items
As the old adage goes, it is always better to be safe than sorry. When you’re packing for any getaway, the first things to add are your first aid kit and identification.
A personal tote is the preferred place for these items, since you can keep it with you at all times. Inside your bag, include everything you might need in case of an emergency, like:
- Your passport
- Extra cash and credit cards
- A first aid kit
- Prescription medications
- Over-the-counter pain relievers
- A back-up portable cell phone charger
Anything that you would need if you had to leave everything behind urgently should be right in that tote. That way, in case of an emergency, you know exactly the bag to grab as you deal with your situation.
2. Weather-Appropriate Clothing
Even if you think you know what the weather is supposed to be like where you’re going, check the forecast. Planning for one thing and getting another is never fun!
By checking ahead of time, you can adjust the clothes you bring to be weather-appropriate. If it’s projected to be rainy, throw in a jacket, shoes that can get wet, and an umbrella, too.
Trips with an itinerary that depends on a specific type of weather can be tricky. Have a back-up plan just in case, and bring extra clothing for your second choice activities.
3. Your Morning Routine Things
We all have those essential items that are part of our wake-up process. The day you leave, watch your routine throughout the morning. As you finish one thing, pack it instead of putting it away.
For most of us, this includes things like vitamins and medicines, our favorite coffee makers, and our oral hygiene care items. If it’s already part of your daily procedures, you don’t want to go without it on your trip!
4. Your Beauty Products
Getaways are a notorious time to forget to take care of your body, both internally and externally. Junk food reigns, and who has time for skincare routines?
But when you get back to reality, you’re going to be paying the price for slacking. Two days is all it takes to feel and see the damage of unhealthy eating!
While you’re on your trip, keep taking care of your skin. Be sure you bring (and use) these necessities:
- Deodorant
- Facial wash
- Body wash
- Shampoo and conditioner
- Toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, and mouthwash
- A razor and shaving cream
- Sunscreen and moisturizer
Of course, you might have other parts of your normal beauty regimen you’ll want to pack. If your kit of essential products is extensive, a travel makeup bag could be helpful!
5. Your Electronics
Unless your trip is designed electronics-free, you’re going to want to make sure you pack the essential devices.
Start with a charger for every person’s phone that is traveling with you. Then think about how you want everyone entertained.
Would a portable DVD player or tablet be helpful? Will you need to download some shows and games for the kids to play in case there is no WiFI on the way?
If you’re bringing your laptop, don’t forget the charger for that, too!
Electronics are an entire section of packing on their own. But going device-free is always a great opportunity to encourage a family bonding experience if that’s what you’re looking for.
Conclusion
Ready for your getaway? It’s the break from monotony, routine, and stress you’ve been looking forward to, and you deserve it!
One complication when you leave home is forgetting something you really need. Make sure your on-the-trip stress level is as low as possible by packing these essentials before you go!
I’m a 20-something stay-at-home mother and wife. I have an amazing husband, a beautiful daughter, two loving dogs, and a lazy cat. I wouldn’t change my life for anything! I love to read, listen to music, cook and blog!
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