Minimalist Packing for a Short Break

So, you’re planning a short break to a warmer climate and want to travel light?

Perhaps you’ll want to have plenty of space or luggage allowance for bringing home gifts and purchases?

But what do you pack when you’re off for a long weekend and only have hand luggage space to fill? Let’s look at some essentials for a long weekend Winter break where the temperature is only around 14 degrees max.

1. Think about how you’ll spend most of your holiday time

Imagine packing space is limited (hand luggage only) so it’s important to only pack essentials, so that means thinking about what you may do on your holidays and packing accordingly.

Now, I’m not saying you need to plan out everything, but just think about whether you’ll mainly be indoors or out, going to casually dressed places or more formal, just reading in your cottage or out walking? This will then help you pack more effectively.

2. Pack items that will mix and match easily

When space is limited, it’s essential that you take clothes that can easily be worn with other things so that you create fresh looks from the same things.

In this way, it will look like you have many outfits, but really it’s just items that have been cleverly recycled.

Ask yourself, ‘Does it have a ‘friend’ to play with?’ If not, don’t pack it!

3. Pack layering items

By this I mean think about light tops and shirts so that you can wear more layers for warmth.

In addition, I would include scarves in this category.

4. Pack one thick winter warmer

By this I mean think about light tops and shirts so that you can wear more layers for warmth.

In addition, I would include scarves in this category.

5. Keep it Simple

If you’re away just for a long weekend, then why not give yourselves a real break by not overthinking what to take?

The only way to do this is by minimizing what you take – 2 main outfits is probably all you’ll need; the rest can come from mixing and matching, as mentioned above.

6. The Checklist

My minimalist packing would include:

1 x fleece/mega warm sweater or top (wear this on your flight) and if there’s a cold snap

2 x colourful tops to mix and match (plus the top you’re wearing on the day of the flight/drive)

2 x pairs of pants, including jeans (plus the pair you have on etc)

1 x pair of flats and heels (or whatever footwear is comfortable for you). Wear trainers for travel.

A small cosmetics bag

Underwear

Tights if needed

1 x light, dressy outfit if a special evening out is planned

7. Extras to wear on the flight

A pair of boots, trainers or walking shoes depending on your holiday plans

A lightweight jacket

A scarf

And remember, wherever you might travel, enjoy yourself and be present in the moment.