Is there anything better than a weekend trip? It’s like a mini-vacation without all of the stress of long-term planning. But despite having a trip that runs only slightly beyond an overnighter, you still have to pack a bag. The correct term is called “weekender” aka that bag that fits just enough for your weekend jaunt without being too big of a bag or too small of one. With weekenders, the key is maximizing your space. You already know the basics to carry: your wallet, your phone, your Scotch Porter beard products (we covered the everyday bag-packing here). But there’s more to it. Much more. Think of it this way: in one weekender bag you have to still pack for comfort…that includes grooming comfort. So we did you all a solid and have broken down the essentials to pack in your weekender bag. Adjust it of course to your lifestyle, but certainly don’t forget the essentials.
The Essentials
There is nothing more important than the paperwork that brings you to your destination. Bring your driver’s license/ID and your passport, but also bring photocopies in case they’re lost or stolen. Keep your travel itinerary and vital phone numbers together with your personal documents. If you’re the type to load your boarding passes into your phone, just make sure your phone is charged when you get to the airport. Also bring a snack or two. Those are essential as well.
The Gear
Unless you’re heading to a nudist colony, you’re going to need clothes. Underwear, undershirts, socks, t-shirts, pants, the whole nine. If there’s a pool or a beach, bring your swim trunks. Throw in a sports jacket if there’s formal time, but don’t overpack clothing because the rest of this list will be useless. Don’t forget flip flops, dress shoes, and sneakers. Need some help picking kicks? We got you.
The Gadgets
Because #technology, but outside of your cellphone, charger, power packs, ear buds, and a tablet, style gadgets are equally essential. Pack your sunglasses, your wallet, your belt, your jewelry (especially that wedding band if you’re married), along with mints and condoms, because well, you know… Also don’t forget your vitamins and any medications you might be taking.
The Toiletries
Travel sized items are key. This is only a weekend bag, but your manscaping doesn’t take a day off. Shampoo/Conditioner, body wash, deodorant, toothbrush/toothpaste, mouthwash, floss, razor, shaving cream, aftershave, moisturizer, face wash, q-tips, nail file, tweezers, cologne, and suntan lotion. Throw in some wet wipes, tissues, disinfectant spray, and hand sanitizer too. It seems like a lot, but the smaller the size of the products, the easier they’ll fit in your toiletries bag.
Hairy Care-y
Don’t be that guy. The one who thinks his hair and beard can be free of care for a few days. You’ll look back on those vacation photos like “WHY?” Travel hair products are ideal: gel/mousse, pomade, hair spray. Don’t neglect your beard, either. Bring that beard wash and beard oil, along with your beard comb and Boar’s hair brush (get all of that here). If you’re the type of guy whose hair grows at an unbelievably rapid pace, maybe throw your trimmer in there too. Remember: the vacation memories will mean more if you’re looking tight in all of the photos.