Before you start adding items to your trip checklist, consider your destination. If you're going to the beach and plan on spending all weekend in the sand and surf, you need to pack bathing suits, flip flops and bathing suit cover-ups appropriate for dining and walking through your hotel lobby. If you're going to the mountains, pack comfortable shoes for walking, shorts, shirts and a bathing suit if there's a nearby lake or river where you can swim. In addition, consider the type of hotel or resort where you are staying. High-end properties expect guests to dress accordingly, which means following dress code protocol; check with the concierge at your hotel prior to leaving to find out what expectations are in place for guests.
No matter where you're going you must prepare for all types of weather. Check the weather before you leave for your trip and add a few essentials to your luggage such as a light sweater and rain appropriate shoes and clothes. If you're traveling where it's cold, you'll want to pack long undergarments, extra clothes if yours get wet in the snow and hats appropriate for any weather at any destination to keep your head and face protected.
You know you need your deodorant and toothbrush, but sometimes it is easy to forget the other essentials. Sunscreen, contact lenses and solution, glasses, hats and your personal grooming items are sometimes left behind when packing for a trip. While most of these items are easily purchased at any destination, some, such as your electric razor and flat iron, are expensive and you won't want to purchase a new one for a short weekend trip. Don't forget your phone chargers or your camera batteries and chargers.
If you're traveling with children, you'll want to pack easy snacks for your car or plane ride, drinks, games, toys and baby essentials. Favorite pillows, blankets and stuffed animals are essential with children if you want to avoid a weekend of upset. If you're traveling with a baby or toddler, don't forget a portable bed and sippy cups or bottles. Children tend to get messy quickly so don't forget extra clothes, diapers and pull ups in case of any accidents or messes.
