How To Plan A Last Minute Weekend Getaway
Perhaps you’re feeling the travel bug and just have to find a way to get out of town. And then, the stars align, or someone has offered to take care of your kids this weekend (don’t question it, just go along with it), you’ve got the opportunity to jet out of town. DO IT! But how? It’s so last minute! Here's some tips for when this moment happens.
1. Hotel Tonight – This mobile phone app is great for any last-minute hotel deals. Simply enter in the destination of where you’re headed, and it will share deals for that location.
2. Toiletries – I recommend having a travel toiletry bag always packed. That way all you have to do is grab it and go whenever you’re headed out of town. Whether or not it’s a last-minute trip, it’s one less thing for you to plan and pack while getting ready to go away.
3. Pack minimally – If you only have a few minutes to pack your bags, think like a minimalist. Pack the essentials – undergarments, PJ’s, two daytime outfits and two nighttime outfits. If you’re really pressed for time, pack an outfit that can easily go from day to night. And don’t forget to pack the appropriate shoes (you should not need more than two pairs for a weekend).
4. Packing List – Create your own packing list ahead of time (when you’re not limited on time) so that you always have something to refer to. I would suggest keeping it in the Notes app or Reminders app on your phone so you can share it with other family members and always have it on the go. Here’s another thorough checklist that won’t let you forget anything! Print this out and check it off as you’re packing.
5. Packing cubes – When you’re packing, divide your clothing by category into packing cubes or by outfits and roll, baby, roll those clothes (ie, pajamas and undergarments, tops and bottoms, day outfits and night outfits, etc.). It’ll help save space in whatever bag you’re taking with you and make clothing much easier to find on the other end once you arrive.
6. Charge your devices – if you’re scrambling to pack and get organized, make sure you’re charging any devices you plan on bringing on the trip with you. If you’re not driving, you can research activities and restaurants so expect your phone battery to go faster. I love traveling with a backup charger just in case- this is one of my favorites.
7. Trip planner – why not have a pocket travel agent do all of the trip planning for you? This site gives a bunch of different apps to choose from that go from suggesting afternoon outings to an entire itinerary all at your fingertips.
8. Flights – If you’re considering flying somewhere use kayak.com or skyscanner.com for any last minute flight deals.
Summer travel this year is all about road trips. Do your best to be prepared ahead of time! Now, before you overthink this whole weekend getaway thing and change your mind, you better get packing!