How to Pack for a Three-Day Trip with a Backpack

Long-weekend getaways offer a refreshing escape; however, they can turn into a hassle with exorbitant carry-on fees charged by airlines. In this age of Basic Economy fares, mastering the art of efficient packing for a quick trip is becoming indispensable.

I have spent years perfecting the skill of traveling with just a carry-on, and I’ve compiled a guide to help you do the same. Below are eight essential steps that you can follow to ensure you pack your bag smartly and avoid unnecessary complications. Feel free to adapt this blueprint according to your preferences and requirements.

Step 1: The Backpack

For frequent travelers, selecting a quality backpack is crucial. Last year, I invested in a Tumi Voyageur black leather backpack, but any average-sized backpack can suit your needs. Look for one with front and side pockets, as well as a separate compartment for your laptop or tablet. An interior back section is useful for storing important items like your passport, allowing easy access when necessary.

Step 2: The Clothes

Packing clothing can be one of the greatest challenges for a three-day trip, occupying a significant amount of space in your backpack. Fortunately, packing cubes can be a lifesaver, helping to organize and compress your clothes efficiently. A helpful tip is to wear your travel outfit on the plane, maximizing available packing space. Aim to pack three pairs of undergarments, three pairs of socks, a bathing suit (optional), pajamas, two t-shirts, and two pairs of shorts or pants. If you’re planning to work out, consider including two workout outfits as well.

Many clothing items can also serve multiple purposes. For instance, a t-shirt worn the previous day can double as a workout shirt, and gym shorts can be used as a bathing suit cover-up.

Step 3: The Liquid Toiletries

While some may pack a plethora of liquid toiletries, I recommend keeping it simple. Most hotels provide basic toiletries, and purchasing your preferred brand of travel-size items can be done quickly upon arrival. I prefer using a clear ziplock bag instead of a decorative toiletry bag for quicker access at security checkpoints.

Essentials include travel-sized shampoo, conditioner, lotion, body wash, a vitamin-C oil, toothpaste, lip balm, and a teeth whitening pen. Include a couple of mini-sized perfumes as well.

Step 4: The Miscellaneous Bag

Think of your backpack’s miscellaneous bag as your kitchen’s junk drawer—filled with various items that prove useful in unexpected situations. Given the limited space, ensure the contents are essential and fit well. My list typically includes three instant coffee packets, earplugs, tweezers, tampons, Band-Aids, two pens, a toothbrush, a small jewelry bag, local currency change purse, a compact mirror, two eye masks, hair ties, prescription medication, allergy meds, sleeping aids, a razor, hair clips, and a compact charger. Remember, these items are personalized, but this structure allows ample room for additional essentials.

Step 5: The Wires

Remaining connected while traveling requires having the right cables at your disposal. This typically includes my computer charger, a lightning iPhone cable, a USB cable for airplane charging, and the USB charger for my portable battery. Additionally, I always carry a pair of traditional headphones, just in case my AirPods run out of battery.

Step 6: The Random Essentials

Random essentials are necessary items that do not fit into your miscellaneous bag. For me, these are my laptop, reading material (magazines are especially useful), my keys, AirPods, and sunglasses. The holder for my sunglasses often accommodates a few extra cards for convenience.

Step 7: The Assembly

Packing your backpack resembles playing Tetris; however, it is fast and efficient. Start by placing your packing cube with clothes at the bottom. Ensure your passport is easily accessible in a designated section, preferably in the back zipper area. Layer your toiletry bag, wires bag, and miscellaneous bag on top. Position your laptop and reading material in the back zipper pocket, with your keys, AirPods, wallet, and water bottle in the side pockets or attached to what you’re wearing.

Step 8: Additional Items

The outfit you’ll wear when leaving home serves as your first day’s attire and provides an opportunity to carry extra items. My preferred travel outfit usually consists of jeans, a plain white t-shirt, and a jacket appropriate for the season. I often wear a sweatshirt or tie it around my waist. If adding accessories like a hat or scarf, wear them to save space in your backpack. Moreover, I’ve found that tying a pair of sandals in a small bag (while typically wearing sneakers) and attaching them to my backpack works perfectly.