The Ultimate Guide to Packing for a Weekend Away
Published by Allie Hochman
How to Get the Most Out of Your Weekend Getaway
Is there a better feeling than clocking out of work on a Friday afternoon, hopping in the car, and within just a couple of hours, arriving at an adventurous, or perhaps relaxing, weekend escape? With tiresome days during the workweek, the weekends are that much more special, so it’s essential to check off those bucket list items or spend time with friends and family in a meaningful location. Plus, the extra hours of daylight means you can even kick off your three-day vacation before the sun goes down, just in time for dinner.
Whether you’re a hiking fanatic or a certified beach bum looking for a mini oasis, soak up all of the summer hours from the moment the lock strikes 5 on Friday, and certainly don’t let Sunday ruin your Monday.
How to Pack for a 2-Night Trip the Kulkea Way
Part of the joy of a two-night getaway is simplified packing, since the reality is, you probably won’t need to bring that much with you. For longer trips, we’ve got just the packing list you need to be well-equipped in all settings, but for weekend warrior mode, it’s best to stick to the basics. But even with a minuscule packing list, we highly recommend preparing on Thursday night, no matter how tempting the quick Friday afternoon “tossing in the bag” might sound. This way, as soon as you close your laptop or head out of the office on Friday afternoon, it’s go time!

Now, when it comes to what you actually need, it’s best to try and limit yourself to only essential items. That means, even if you’re the overprepared type, leave out the two extra “just in case wardrobe changes,” as there’s a good chance you won’t need them on such a short trip.
And if you’re able, change into your Friday evening outfit before hitting the road, to save you time and space.
- 2 versatile outfits to last you the entire day, plus one backup.
- 1 outfit per night.
- 1 lightweight jacket or sweatshirt.
- Toiletries, plus sunscreen if necessary.
- Sunglasses, hat, or other accessories.
- Chargers and other essential electronics.
- Something that allows you to slow down and be present, like headphones, a book, a journal, etc.
Pack Like a Pro With Kulkea’s Travel Systems
Käydä 44L & Käydä 36L Travel Backpack

Not only is the Käydä Travel Backpack more than spacious enough for all of your weekend essentials, rather an organized travel system, so packing for any occasion is a no-brainer. There’s a reason the original 44L model was named best ski pack by Men’s Journal, as the unique design, which was well-thought-out by fellow travelers and thrill-seekers, ensures there’s a place for everything from clothing, shoes, electronics, and more. So, we decided to create a slightly smaller version, the 36L, offering the same impeccable structure, with a less bulky feel.
The main compartment speaks for itself, plus it’s complete with a laptop protection pocket, retractable helmet and jacket sling, and an interior transport toiletries pocket, just to name a few features. And let’s not forget about the detachable travel kit, which acts as your safeguard for chargers, keys, wallet, travel documents, and any other valuables. So, when traveling with the Käydä, you can increase organization and eliminate any need to bring additional side bags.
Kartta Travel Backpack

Whether you’re traveling by plane, train, or automobile, the Kartta Travel Backpack is the ideal solution for an epic weekend getaway. While it’s certainly built to fit a pair of ski or snowboard boots, the Kartta is so much more than a standard boot bag, and trust us, it comes in incredibly handy when packing for summer adventures. Loaded with the on-the-move travel features like a quick-grab pocket, padded laptop pocket, magnetic water bottle holder, retractable helmet sling, and more.
Once you’ve packed up your clothes, shoes, toiletries, electronics, and other gear, you can toss the Kartta right in the back of the car, as the durability of this bag is incomparable. The versatile backpack is made to venture beyond, so you can undoubtedly rely on it no matter where you find yourself. And comfort was certainly not overlooked, given the ergonomic back panel, breathable comfort contoured shoulder straps, and ventilation grommets to help air out your gear.
Kaamos Boot Packing Cube - Small, Medium, or Large

If you’re looking for next-level organization, especially if you’re packing a pair of boots, then you’ve got to get your hands on the Kaamos Boot Cube. No more worrying about wet or dirty boots sitting alongside your clean gear and valuables, as this packing agent guarantees separation where it’s needed most. With varying sizes - small for the Käydä 36L, medium to go inside the Käydä 44L, and large, which slips seamlessly into the Kartta - we can assure you that inserting this small but mighty item takes about no time at all, and trust us when we say it brings peace of mind to many fellow travelers.