How to Pack for a 3-Day Getaway

*This post is sponsored by HotelTonight, however, all opinions are as always, 100% honest.

KSOLE and I recently went on a quick trip to San Francisco, and while I’m a fan of tropical trips, I was in desperate need of an escape from the LA heat. We weren’t looking to go too far and settled on San Francisco for two reasons: 1) average temperatures are generally around 70 degrees and 2) it was only an hour flight (so all I needed was carry-on).

With the help of HotelTonight, we were able to book a room at The Marker. I love how easy HotelTonight is to use and the quality of options provided has yet to let me down. I've been a member of the app since 2014 and loved seeing it grow from last minute bookings to now allowing you to book a month in advance! Trust me when I say that this is the app to use when it comes to hotel bookings! Now, let's get to packing.

Not sure if it's just me, but I feel that shorter trips are always harder to pack for. Considering half our luggage is filled with tech gear such as our laptops, camera & lenses, tripod, etc., it can get tricky utilizing the remaining space. While there are plenty of tricks on Youtube on methods of packing a carry-on, I decided to share my own tidbits and tips for a three-day, in addition to what the must-have outfits are for a getaway. 

How do you get the most out of your space?

• Invest a spacious and sturdy carry-on! I love using this one as it's a little bigger than regular carry-on sizes and I've gotten away with not having to check-in on most airlines. Of course, double-checking size restrictions is always recommended prior to departing.

• Packing cubes are my go-to and are available in a variety of sizes. They're great for organizing and compressing my outfits. I typically use two medium size ones for outfits and a smaller one for intimates/swimwear (for carry-on).

• Rolling does save space - but you risk wrinkling your clothes (or maybe that's just me). While it's a huge space saver, it can get frustrating with cotton and linen dresses and jumpsuits. I always end up steaming my clothes as soon as I unpack.

• Stuffing bags, shoes, and whatever else you can also work. Sometimes I bring a purse or small backpack in my carry-on, in which I'll stuff a jacket, socks, or products I need to shoot for projects.

• For jewelry, I highly recommend using a travel organizer such as the one shown in my photo, which you can get here. Not only does it keep your necklaces tangle-free, I can also see what I have in a glimpse and know exactly where all my pieces are.

How do you figure out what to pack/what to bring?

• Pre-plan your outfits and take photos of them so you know exactly what you are bringing, and whether you have enough or too many clothes for the trip.

• Check the weather for the dates you'll be there. This helps with overpacking and ensuring you have the right attire. It also saves you money, time, and stress from having to buy something last minute at your destination (i.e. jacket).

• Personally, I always have a handful of staple items that I always bring for each trip, which makes figuring out what to wear a little easier:

  • White sneakers

  • Black ankle booties

  • Pair of jeans and black pants

  • Jacket

  • Pair of flats/sandals:

  • Swimsuit

  • Crossbody and/or backpack

Photography by KSOLE

So that's all the tips I have to share, simple right? It took me a long time to figure out how to efficiently pack for shorter trips but everything takes practice, right? Hopefully, I helped you with your next trip and don't forget to check out HotelTonight for those great hotel prices ;)