This is a collaborative post.
2020 has been a tough year for travel enthusiasts. People have had to swap aisle seats for their living rooms sofas, and are being forced to add to their travel bucket list rather than check off another box. Although the global pandemic has caused a stir in long-distance travel, people are learning to appreciate the beauty of their local area. You don’t have to fly halfway around the world to enjoy a weekend away. Staycations can be just as good. In this post, I’m going to be looking at the top five weekend trip packing essentials, if you’re able to get a short break at home somewhere this year!
Whether you’re planning a short trip before the summer is out or you are looking much further down the line, one of the most difficult parts is packing a weekend bag. Whether you’re restricted by carry-on regulations or you just never know what’s appropriate, developing the right kind of packing skills takes time.
And yes, while you might not get your dream holiday this year, it’s important to take a break. If you’ve decided to take a few days to enjoy a socially distanced trip, here are five of the best weekend trip packing tips.
The top five weekend packing essentials
1. Electronics and tech
Did you really take a trip if you didn’t post pictures on social media? Jokes aside, people use their phones for many things on vacations. Whether you’re making memories through photos and videos or letting maps and Google reviews guide you around the locality, you’ll need your phone.
Ensure that you have all your key electronic gadgets, including adapters, chargers, cameras, GPS devices, and any other important items.
2. Versatile footwear
Shoes, boots, and trainers can quickly fill your weekend bag, leaving limited space for other things. Invest in some versatile footwear that is comfortable to walk around in and smart enough to wear to dinner or drinks. At a time when athleisure is a very popular trend in fashion, this shouldn’t be too difficult.
3. Organize your eyewear
For many people, ensuring that they have their glasses or lenses organized is a major priority. In unfamiliar surroundings, it’s important to have your wits about you. Whether you’re looking out for signs or landmarks, you must be able to see them. Make sure to pack essential eyewear.
If you’re limited to one pair of glasses, it can be useful to get a spare pair. There are even some amazing online resources for buying glasses and fitting them to your face through virtual technology.
4. Travel documents
If you are travelling abroad, ensure that you have all the necessary documents, including your passport, driving license, boarding cards, and insurance information. If required, organize your visa ahead of time to avoid any issues.
If you intend to use your credit or debit card abroad, make sure you notify your bank before you leave. It goes without saying that foreign travel is something that needs to be researched really carefully right now. Especially given the current climate, be aware of all the potential risks and rules around quarantine before you do decide to venture outside of the UK.
5. Books or a journal
If you enjoy using holiday time to relax and unwind, one of the best ways to do so is to read or write in a journal. Take one or two great books and dedicate some time to just sitting back and reading. A short trip can provide you with moments of clarity.
As an opportunity to detach from regular life, you might be inspired by certain thoughts or ideas. Journaling is an expressive activity that is beneficial to your mind. It is a fantastic way to capture thoughts and ideas in the moment.
What would you include in your essential packing kit?
If you can think of any other must-haves for a short break away, make sure you let me know in the comments! Are you planning a staycation this year? It’s been hard for everyone during lockdown so I’d love to hear from you to know more about how you’re planning to explore your corner of the UK a bit more.
If you’ve enjoyed this post you might like to read some of my other travel posts, starting with this one about the top five hidden gems in North-East England.
