Packing a suitcase for a two-day trip shouldn't be difficult, but we often have the ability to make things more complicated than they really are. It is always better to travel light, avoiding carrying too many things that will not be needed in the end. However, care must be taken not to downsize needs too much in order not to risk leaving something essential at home. Whatever the destination or the reason for the trip, knowing what to pack and what to leave at home is essential to make the experience as pleasant as possible.
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Avoid Carrying Too Many Stuff
Step 1. View the weather forecast for your destination
It is used to decide which clothes and accessories are best to pack. Warm or tropical climates allow you to bring light clothing, such as shorts and T-shirts. Cold climates, on the other hand, require heavy, waterproof clothing, such as jackets, sweaters and coats.
Also bring a folding umbrella if rainfall is expected. In case of heavy rain, if you have to go outside, you can ask the hotel reception if you can borrow a bigger umbrella
Step 2. Choose the type of suitcase
Since you will only be away from home for two days, a small bag is ideal. The best options include a backpack, duffel bag, or small trolley. You will be able to make the most of the space available by putting the following strategies into practice:
- Roll up clothes that don't wrinkle easily. This method is generally suitable for cotton T-shirts, jeans and sportswear. Put them on the bottom of the suitcase.
- Fold clothes that could wrinkle, such as cotton shirts or any silk or satin garments. Place them on top of the rolled-up ones.
- Fold longer items such as pants and skirts in half. To create even layers, overlap them by placing the upper part of the second garment over the lower part of the first, and so on, since generally the belt area is the thickest.
- Make use of the remaining space. Look for the small gaps left between the different layers and objects. Fill them with underwear, such as socks and briefs, or with small items such as chargers.
Step 3. Make use of the space available in your computer bag
Find ways to use that extra space as well. In addition to the computer, insert all the necessary paper documents inside the available pockets. You will most likely also be able to use them to hold your MP3 player, earphones, mobile phone, a couple of USB sticks and some business cards. The larger pockets can accommodate adapters and power supplies.
Step 4. Take advantage of your pocket
Keys, MP3 players and smartphones can probably fit in the pockets of your clothes as well. If you are traveling by plane, remember that you will need to empty them in order to go through security. If it's winter, you can put everything in your coat pockets to speed things up.
Part 2 of 3: Packing Clothing and Accessories
Step 1. Bring only the clothes you will need
Make a list of all the activities you intend to carry out: it will help you to highlight individual needs. For example, if you plan to spend one day sightseeing and the other at a beach party, it makes no sense to pack a pair of high-heeled shoes or an elegant dress. The most reasonable choice would be to bring:
- 2 blouses or shirts;
- 2 pairs of pants / jeans / shorts / skirts;
- 3 changes of underwear (including socks);
- 1 pajamas;
- 1 swimsuit.
Step 2. Choose clothing suitable for multiple occasions
Narrow the range of colors to neutral ones, which are generally appropriate for any occasion. Wear the same outfit on both the outward and return journeys. The most advisable and versatile dresses include:
- White T-shirt or shirt;
- Black, brown or gray trousers or skirt;
- Black, brown or gray shoes or sandals;
- Black sneakers that can also be worn with elegant trousers.
Step 3. Limit your shoe size
Unless you have to take part in a number of different events, chances are you'll just need the ones you wear on your trip. If you need to pack a second pair in your suitcase, make sure they are the lightest ones (the others you can wear). To prevent them from soiling your clothes, wrap them in a plastic bag.
Step 4. Limit the number of jewels
For a two-day trip, you should pack (or wear) only the ones you really need. You can save the space at your disposal by limiting yourself to bring the jewels you intend to wear while traveling. If you are planning to attend formal events, choose something appropriate for different occasions. Here is a practical example:
- Clock;
- Faith / engagement ring;
- Simple gold or silver choker;
- Stud earrings.
Part 3 of 3: Packing the Toiletries
Step 1. Decide what you can leave at home
The more products you can opt out of, the lower the weight of your baggage. Contact the hotel before you leave to find out which toiletries you will find available. Most facilities provide irons, shampoo, conditioner, soap and shower gel. Some also offer hairdryers, sewing kits, cotton swabs, make-up remover pads, and hand and body lotion.
If you will be staying with friends or family, ask if you can use some of their appliances and products. To return their courtesy, you can offer to prepare dinner or purchase a gift in advance, such as a movie ticket or gift card
Step 2. Purchase travel bottles
Even if you won't take a plane, the dimensions of the travel containers allow you to contain space. You can put them in an easily accessible pocket of your suitcase, computer bag or handbag. If you are traveling by plane, security checks will be easier and quicker. The travel bottles have a maximum capacity of 100ml. Toiletries available in small sizes include:
- Toothpaste;
- Mouthwash;
- Deodorant;
- Sunscreen;
- Hair gel;
- Hair spray.
Step 3. Bring only essential cosmetics
Narrow down by planning ahead on how you intend to do your makeup. If you need to cover some skin imperfections, pack concealer, foundation and face powder. The ideal is to bring products that can be used in multiple ways, some examples include:
- Colored lip gloss;
- Powder foundation;
- Eye pencil.