What to Pack for a Weekend Getaway

I have a confession to make. I’m a serial over-packer. True, there are worse crimes,  however, the number of times I’ve had to throw open my suitcase at baggage check, frantically stuff clothes, shoes, books, into my hand luggage, is more than I care to admit. Hardly the image of a sophisticated, well-travelled woman I want to project.

I don’t say this for the sake of self-flagellation, but to explain my credentials. You see, after years of packing as many options as possible into bags of all shapes and sizes, I’ve come to learn that there is, in fact, a knack to all of this. So, in the spirit of sharing, these are the hard-earned tips and tricks I’ve gathered, not for travelling light, but for travelling smart. And of course, stylishly.

What to Wear

Before you even think about putting a single item in a suitcase, you must decide what you’ll be wearing to travel in. Celebrities are already acutely aware that the airport “look” is a curated balance between effortless style and comfort. Emphasis on the word balance, as it’s easy to swing too far in one direction. Over-prioritise comfort and you’re in a matching tracksuit. Over-prioritise style and you’re reaching for the blister plasters in Boots because you thought it was a good idea to wear those heels you loved pre-Covid, but which haven’t yet made a post-pandemic appearance. Factoring in the blaring onboard air conditioning, warmth will also have to be accounted for. Nothing caters to all three (comfort, style and warmth), like a Connolly cashmere jumper. A cream roll neck number is incredibly versatile, and if you pinch one from the menswear section, you get that slouchy, effortless look. Paired with some Marella x Deema Al Asadi silk trousers and you’ll still look put together. We like them in green to give a pop of colour. Footwear is always critical. When travelling, there are so many different variables. You never know how far you’ll have to walk to your gate, or if your car won’t show to pick you up. That’s why a pair of leather trainers is a great choice – relaxed but polished enough to make it through passport control.

They say that it’s what’s on the inside that counts. When travelling, that’s undeniably true, however, the outside matters too. A reliable carry-on handbag-suitcase duo is an absolute essential for anyone with a few air miles under their belt. You need something that’s hardy, reliable, but which looks chic, and most importantly, can squeeze everything you need in. That’s why I opt for a leather case. It has the give of a soft-shell while still protecting everything inside. This Aspinal matching set provides exactly that. The handbag can also hook dutifully onto the suitcase handle, making stacking and wheeling off a breeze. For those who have to check their bags (I’m with you), Bruno Cucinelli has excellent options – a tote for easy access or something more structured for maximum organisation. Don't forget a small travel wallet for all your essentials - passport, wallet, phone. This Jackson's beaded clutch is a great size and bright enough that you can find it in any bag. 

The Beauty

It’s no secret that flying can wreak havoc on your skin. The low-humidity in the cabin famously leads to severe dehydration, which in turn creates a whole host of issues – weakened skin barrier, dryness, redness, breakouts and more. Preparation is key here. It happens every time, so there’s no excuse to have the products which mitigate any flare-ups on hand. By now, most of you will be aware that daily SPF is essential. When flying, it’s mission-critical as UVA and UVB rays are infinitely stronger when in the air. Altruist’s anti-redness SPF does the job beautifully. Not only does its green formula balance out any redness (it’s the opposite side of the colour wheel, so neutralises), but it’s also a light formula, so great for layering.

For hydration, there’s nothing better than Nescens bio-identical replenishing cream. Swiss-made (which means they really know what they're doing), the rich formula deeply hydrate and strengthens the skin barrier, and delivers intense comfort for visibly younger-looking skin. I recommend applying in the days before travel to make sure you’re not starting from scratch. Once you’ve landed and got settled in your hotel, it’s essential to wash your face. No matter how vigilant you are, the surfaces you touch when in an airport are not the cleanest. To make sure none of that makes its way to your face, wash with Apeer’s cleansing gel as soon as possible. It contains Salicylic Acid which will dissolve any residual bacteria on the surface. Follow with a Skin Design Face Tight ™ Hydrogel Mask. Described as a facelift on-the-go, it contains over 20 bioactive peptides to visibly lift and support skin elasticity. Moving from your face to your hair, any seasoned traveller knows that nine times out of ten, the hotel shampoo and conditioner will be extremely drying. Pack the Gielly Green haircare set. It’s richly restorative, so nourishes without stripping your hair or interfering with your scalp microbiome.

To freshen up or spritz on the go, it’s always worth having a perfume on hand. At SPHERE, we’re recent converts to metallic perfumes – the latest scent trend. Resonant, Oddity is a blend of Yuzu, bergamot and ginger with a cold metal middle note, meaning it’s super fresh. Like fresh air after a thunderstorm. Maison Margiela Celestial Whispers is a great smokier alternative.

For some, exercise is an essential part of the day. For others, it’s a chore, reluctantly undertaken because you know it’s good for your physical and mental health. If you’re in the latter camp, it’s unlikely you’ll be champing at the bit to try out the hotel gym. And why should you be? You’re on holiday. That said, experts have stressed the benefits of light movement after flying – annoying, I know. Personally, swimming feels like the only civilised compromise. It’s low-impact and even just a few unhurried lengths can help loosen muscles and boost circulation after being sat at altitude for however many hours. A good swim requires a good swimsuit and this Eres green one-piece does the trick. The beaded straps add a bit of understated glamour, while still being functional enough to float in the slow lane. If you want to up the ante and/or your hotel doesn’t have a wealth of equipment, skipping is great for post-flight lymphatic drainage. Technogym have a great rope that folds nicely away, so you only have to look at it when you need to.

It’d be criminal to book a weekend away and not have a few nice dinners or drinks in the schedule. This is typically your cue to pack something that feels elevated and intentional, without demanding an entire suitcase of contingencies. Enter this Eres silk capped-sleeve dress. We’re seeing the lace trim everywhere at the moment, even in the autumn/winter wardrobes, so this is great for transitional dressing. It’s also a classic, timeless look that works just as well at a candlelit trattoria as it does at a rooftop bar. On your feet, the Alohas mesh pumps strike that sweet spot between statement and ease. Plus, they take up very little space – ever the pragmatist.