How to Pack Travel Bags for a Long Weekend

If you’re planning a 3-4 day getaway, the main idea is to travel light, stay organised and feel stylish while doing it. Whether it’s a wellness retreat, a beach break or a countryside stay, how you pack your travel bag can make or break your weekend. We’re not talking about jamming everything in - rather, fitting all your essentials in your weekend bag smartly (with room for souvenirs.)

From choosing the right suitcase to using colour-coded packing cubes, this guide shows you how to pack your travel bags efficiently for a weekend escape.

When time is limited, so is space - and that’s exactly why smart packing is essential:

• No unnecessary check-in baggage: Breeze through airports and avoid delays with a cabin-approved suitcase or backpack.
• Saves time on both ends: Grab your bag and go - whether you're arriving at your destination or heading home. Efficient packing means less stress and more time enjoying your trip.
• Encourages minimalist travel: Packing light means you prioritise what matters. You’ll end up with outfits you’ll actually wear and have more clarity throughout your trip.
• Room for extras: Leaving some space gives you the freedom to bring home local finds or impromptu purchases. Whether it's a last-minute souvenir or some destination-specific snacks, you won’t have to stress about space.

Short trips deserve smart solutions. Here's how to pack your travel bags like a pro:

1. Choose Compact, Cabin-Friendly Luggage

If your trip is only 72 hours long, you don’t need to bring your entire wardrobe with you. Make wise choices with a cabin-friendly bag that skips the check-in drama, fits your essentials like a dream, and rolls with you from station to staycation. Start with a well-designed carry-on like the Nere Venture cabin suitcase - one of our best-sellers for a reason.

2. Roll, Don’t Fold

Rolling your clothes not only saves space but also prevents wrinkles. You’ll thank yourself when you pull out a dress or shirt that’s ready to wear. Pack a versatile pair of shoes that can go with anything, and stuff your socks in them to minimise clutter.

3. Pack by Outfit

Avoid overpacking by planning your outfits in advance based on your itinerary. Ideally, think of one outfit per day. Choose pieces that you can mix and match and dress up or down - think pieces that take you from daytime on the beach to an evening dinner. Prepare for weather fluctuations, too - pack an emergency layer like a jumper or cardigan.

4. Pack Smarter with Packing Cubes

Packing cubes are a time and space-saving essential for your luggage packing ritual, helping you to compress bulky items to save room and keep everything organised. From holiday outfits to swimsuits and accessories, all you have to do is separate everything neatly into cubes. And with fresh hues, you can colour-code your weekend bag to suit your destination or personal style.

5. Bring a Foldable Backpack or Nylon Tote

You can never go wrong with a comfy backpack or stylish tote. But what if you could fold, overlap, and pleat them to suit various holiday adventures? These handy extra bags barely take up any space and are perfect for impromptu souvenir shopping or balmy beach trips. They even double as a laundry bag or gym bag when you’re at home.

6. Keep Toiletries in a Clear Zip Case

Feeling frazzled during the airport screening process? Fortunately, you can organise your toiletries beforehand to save rummaging through your luggage for them. Keep your cosmetics, deodorant and small containers in a clear toiletry bag. It’ll not only help keep your luggage tidy, but you’ll be able to find your essentials quickly when you’re getting ready in the morning. You can also store liquids in travel-sized bottles and double-bag them, just in case.

7. Balance Your Bag

Always place heavier items like shoes or toiletries at the base of your suitcase for better weight distribution. It’s like yoga for your suitcase - everything stays centred, stable, and easy to manoeuvre.

Weekend travel is about ease, spontaneity, and staying light. With Nere’s top cabin luggage and pastel travel bags, you can pack less, stress less, and enjoy more. Shop now to prepare for your next weekend escape with Nere.

Q: How do I pack light but still have outfit options?
Choose versatile pieces that can be mixed and matched across multiple outfits - think neutral basics, layering options, and accessories that can switch up a look from day to night.

Q: What bag size is allowed for cabin luggage on short flights?
Most UK airlines allow 45 x 36 x 20 cm for underseat bags and up to 56 x 45 x 25 cm for cabin trolleys like the Nere Venture.

Q: Can I fit shoes and toiletries in a carry-on bag?
Yes, especially when using packing cubes and smart layout strategies. Just keep toiletries in a clear case so you can breeze through airport security.

Q: How many packing cubes do I need for a weekend trip?
Two or three cubes are ideal: one for clothes, one for accessories and undergarments, and one for extras like swimwear or gym gear.

Q: Can I bring liquids in my weekend bag?
Yes, if you’re travelling with a carry-on only, liquids must be under 100ml each and fit in a clear 1L bag.

Q: What’s better: a soft travel bag or a structured underseat case?
Both have their benefits: a soft bag like the Bondi Travel Bag is flexible and easy to carry, while a structured case like the Nere Venture keeps items protected and wrinkle-free.