Packing for a Weekend Getaway: Create a Grid

My wife is epic at packing for travel. One of the best tips that I learned from her is to create a grid. Whether your preparing to travel solo, an adventurous couples getaway, or a family weekender trip, the packing grid is a great technique. The method of the packing grid just requires you to create one horizontal row per traveler (this can accommodate any number from 1 to infinity, or as much bed or floor space that you have). Vertically, think about each day and the day’s activities and place your outfit of choice to the corresponding day/activity. For instance, in the video below, you’ll see the that the outfits in the first horizontal row are for a day of sight seeing and dinning. In the second horizontal row is lounge wear for relaxing at the hotel. Thinking ahead is critical to making sure you only take what you need and avoid schlepping unnecessary luggage. Our weekender trip is three days and two nights, so we only needed to pack one set of lounge clothes per person. As you’ll see in the video, this preparation for packing is a great time to take stock of luggage, shoes, swimwear, and to shop ahead for any missing items or desired updates.

Bonus Tip: For all people, but especially if you have growing kids, this is also a great opportunity to take inventory of your wardrobe. While preparing what you’ll pack, have two piles and sort what’s ready to be donated and what’s ready to be tossed as you go.

Packing for a Weekend Getaway: Roll

If you want to maximize your luggage space, rolling your clothing is a great tip. Not only does it give you space but it keeps your clothes from wrinkling. My wife and I keep our under clothing and socks in separate bags within our luggage but for my kids, I like to add their underwear and socks to their outfits before rolling. This makes it so easy for them to just grab a roll and have everything they need to get ready for the day.

Packing for a Weekend Getaway: Remember the Necessities

• Toiletries bag: I lay these out on the grid to be sure everyone has one and is set to toss in toothbrush, combs, skin care, etc.

• First aid kit: the number of occasions that a simple first aid kit has been necessary cannot be counted. A band aid, disinfectant, pain killers, can go a long way.

• Sunscreen: whether it’s a beach trip or the snowy rocky mountains, remember your sunscreen!

• Capturing memories: remember whatever you use (a go pro, selfie stick. polaroid camera) to capture the moments that you’ll want to remember forever