You'll Be Thankful For This List Of 35 Must Haves For a Weekend Getaway
I'm always looking forward to my next vacation, but you know what isn't fun? Packing. Nothing feels worse than realizing you forgot to bring something important, or wishing that you'd packed that bottle of aloe vera for the sunburn you're probably going get. Luckily for both of us, I've come up with this list of must-have things for your next trip. From white noise machines to stylish crop tops, there's a little something in here for everybody, no matter where you're going on vacation. Keep scrolling for more.
Thanks for reading about our favorite finds from across the internet! FYI: We participate in affiliate programs and may get a share of the revenue from your purchase.A Backpack That Opens Up Like A Suitcase
Amazon
If you're looking to travel light, this backpack opens up like a suitcase so that you can pack *way* more stuff inside. There are also elastic pouches where you can stash smaller items, like chargers and electronics. The best part? There's also a separate compartment made specifically for shoes.
See it on AmazonA Casual Dress That's Perfect For Beachy Vacations
Amazon
With more than 20 colors to choose from, don't be surprised if you're tempted to grab this casual dress in more than one shade. The knotted detail on the front lets you show off a little leg, while rolled sleeves give it a cute summery vibe. Plus, a hint of spandex means it has some comfortable stretch.
See it on AmazonThe Yoga Shorts That Are So, So Comfy
Amazon
The key to making it through long plane rides is to dress as comfy as possible. Personally, I like to wear these yoga shorts. The moisture-wicking fabric helps keep you dry if you do start to sweat, while their high-waisted cut looks good paired with just about any top. And unlike some yoga shorts, these ones won't become see-through when you bend over.
See it on AmazonThe Straw Visor That's Undeniably Stylish
Amazon
You can't deny that this straw visor would look seriously cute at the beach, so why not grab it while it's still available for less than $25? The velcro strap lets you easily adjust the fit — and with 14 colors to choose from, you shouldn't have trouble finding one that suits your style.
See it on AmazonThis Luggage Set With Thousands Of Positive Reviews
Amazon
Don't take it from me — with thousands of positive four- and five-star reviews, it's clear that this luggage set is worth the money. But if you need proof? One reviewer wrote, "I bought these suitcases because the were the most affordable to me at the time and they did not disappoint. For the price they are really good and sturdy, they were a lot bigger then I thought they were going to be too. They are VERY spacious, and fit lots of items."
See it on AmazonThe White Noise Machine You Can Take With You
Amazon
Sleeping in a brand-new place can be tough, making this white noise machine a smart investment. It's small enough to stash in your suitcase, and comes pre-loaded with 11 different soothing sounds. "The night light is very handy, and the sounds are perfect," wrote one reviewer. "I usually leave it on the fan sound, and it is perfect for canceling out other noises..."
See it on AmazonThis Duffel Bag That's Perfect For Weekend Getaways
Amazon
Don't waste money checking a bag — just shove all your stuff into this duffel bag when you're headed out for a long weekend. The exterior is water-resistant, just in case you get caught in the rain. And if you aren't into the color you see above? Not a problem, as it's also available in 19 other shades.
See it on AmazonA Swimsuit Coverup That Won't Break The Bank
Amazon
You want to look good on vacation, but you also don't want to spend so much money on clothes that your bank account goes into the red for just one trip. Luckily, this swimsuit coverup is available for less than $25, and even comes with thousands of positive reviews that rave about its quality. "Super stylish with the perfect amount of sheerness," wrote one reviewer. "I felt cute but also comfortable wearing it to the hotel restaurant- it wasn’t too revealing, but still sexy."
See it on AmazonThis Snorkel That Covers Your Whole Face
Amazon
Something about holding a snorkel in my mouth makes me want to gag, which is why I'm a big fan of this full-face snorkel. It covers your entire face so that you can breathe like normal, while an anti-fog front helps keep your underwater view clear. Choose from 10 colors — including a fun shade of pink.
See it on AmazonA Pillow Made For Relaxing On The Beach
Amazon
Soft, supportive, and durable — what more could you want from this beach pillow? The inflatable design makes it easy to bring with you, while the breathable fabric top helps keep you from overheating. Plus, it's hearty enough to stay put on windy days.
See it on AmazonThe Birkenstock Sandals That Won't Leave Your Knees Sore
Amazon
Cosider these Birkenstocks an essential when you're packing for vacation. The insoles are made from soft EVA that contours to the shape of your foot, keeping it supported in all the right places so that you can walk around town without having to worry about sore knees. Choose from dozens of colors — including a cute shade of lavender.
See it on AmazonThis Miniature Phone Charger That Packs A Punch
Amazon
Despite its incredibly small size, this phone charger is so powerful that it can fully power an iPhone X one time. Many reviewers were also blown away by how quickly it charged their phone — one even wrote, "My phone charged up right away and I was able to still use it the whole time."
See it on AmazonThe Shoulder Bag That Just Screams 'Vacation'
Amazon
Just one look at this shoulder bag and I'm ready to hit the beach. It's made from handwoven rattan, with a stylish faux leather shoulder strap that's just as durable as it is trendy. And if you can't quite tell how large it is? Most reviewers found that they were easily able to fit their phone, wallet, sunglasses, and a few other small items inside.
See it on AmazonThe Protective Case For All Your Sensitive Electronics
Amazon
Laptop chargers, lightning cables, earbuds — this protective case is a smart way to make sure your electronics don't get damaged while you're traveling. It's completely shockproof, as well as resistant to scratches. There's also a small pouch on the inside to help keep everything organized.
See it on AmazonThese Hydration Packs That Can Help Soothe Hangovers
Amazon
Speaking from personal experience, these hydration packs are absolute lifesavers on hungover mornings. (Besides, who wants to spend their vacation feeling nauseous?) Each packet is loaded with electrolytes, as well as vitamins B3, B6, B12, and C. Plus, the lemon lime flavor gives them a refreshing kick.
See it on AmazonThe Running Shorts That Help You Stay Cool
Amazon
Need a pair of shorts to wear while you're touring a new city? These high-waisted ones feature a hidden pocket on the waistband where you can stash your room key and a few credit cards. They're also moisture-wicking, won't turn transparent when you bend, and have a built-in liner for extra coverage.
See it on AmazonA Toiletry Bag That You Can Hang Up For Easy Access
Amazon
Not only does this toiletry bag look good, but it also features a hook at the top that lets you hang it up for easy access to all your items. Multiple pockets give you room to store everything from makeup brushes to skincare bottles — and you even have the choice of three colors: black, grey, or green.
See it on AmazonThese Crop Tops Are So, So Affordable
Amazon
Need a few new outfits for your trip? These crop tops are available for just $21, and are basically guaranteed to look good with a pair of high-waisted shorts. "They are light weight and feel good on the skin," wrote one reviewer. "I mostly wore them paired with short shorts or formal skirts and they looked classy even though they are just tank tops."
See it on AmazonA Set Of Compression Bags That Let You Stuff Your Suitcase Full
Amazon
Not only do these compression bags let you fit even more stuff into your suitcase, but they're also incredibly travel-friendly. There's no pump needed to suck out all the air — just roll them up tightly to squeeze out the air, and the zip-lock seal will keep any from leaking back inside.
See it on AmazonA Selfie Stick That Transforms Into A Tripod
Amazon
You've got options when it comes to this selfie stick. Use it to take photos of yourself while you're out and about, or shrink it down into a tripod when taking wider pictures. Each order includes a Bluetooth remote that lets you activate the shutter button without having to press it manually — and it's compatible with nearly any smartphone.
See it on AmazonThe Bracelets That Keep Mosquitos Away
Amazon
Whether you're headed somewhere tropical or going camping, make sure to bring these bracelets with you. They're made with a potent blend of essential oils that help repel mosquitos without relying on any harsh DEET. One size is made to fit all, and they'll still work if you get them wet.
See it on AmazonThis Deck Of UNO Cards That Are Totally Waterproof
Amazon
Every vacation is going to have a little downtime, so why not bring along this deck of UNO cards? Each card is waterproof, which means you can play with them at the beach without having to worry about ruining the deck. "They are very readable and appear very durable because of their thickness," wrote one reviewer. "And the clip provided is amazing for keeping them all together for storage or travel."
See it on AmazonA Travel Mirror That Has Helpful LED Backlights
Amazon
You never know what sort of mirror situation you'll be walking into when you're away from home, which is why I like to bring this travel mirror with me. LED backlights illuminate your face so that you can get those winged eyeliner tips looking perfect. And since the batteries are rechargeable, there's no need to buy replacements.
See it on AmazonThis Outlet Extender That Lets You Charge All Your Devices
Amazon
Having to buy a phone charger at the airport is no way to start your vacation, so make sure to grab this outlet extender before you leave. Three USB ports give you tons of space to charge your devices, and the four outlets are each on a different side of the cube, which means bulky plugs won't block anything. Plus, it's even suitable for use on cruise ships.
See it on AmazonThese Dry Bags That Hold Your Phone, Cards, And More
Amazon
I like to keep my phone in one of these dry bags whenever I'm at a pool party. They're large enough to hold my phone, as well as a few credit cards. And since the transparent window on the front is compatible with touchscreens, there's no need to pull your phone out if you need to send a text.
See it on AmazonA Skincare Collection That Covers All The Bases
Amazon
Not only are all the bottles in this skincare collection conveniently travel-sized, but they also cover all the bases — from soothing eye cream to daily face cleanser. They're compatible with all types of skin, as well as loaded with nourishing ingredients, like jojoba oil, shea butter, aloe, and vitamin E.
See it on AmazonA Bluetooth Speaker That's Easy To Take With You
Amazon
Unlike some Bluetooth speakers, this one is incredibly small, making it easy to pack when you're going on vacation — or even just clip to your backpack. It also has a waterproof exterior that can handle being splashed, as well as a built-in microphone that lets you answer calls hands-free. Choose from four colors: black, red, blue, or green.
See it on AmazonA Sleep Mask That's Seriously Comfortable
Amazon
I bought this sleep mask for a long plane ride, thinking that I'd probably throw it out at the end of the trip. Instead, I now sleep with it every night, as it does an exceptional job at blocking light so that I can sleep deeper, and longer. Choose from five colors: black, navy, purple,red, or gray.
See it on AmazonA Passport Holder That Protects Your Info From Electronic Pickpockets
Amazon
Not only is this passport holder a stylish place to keep your passport, but it also features RFID-blocking technology to help keep you protected from electronic pickpockets. There's also space for credit cards, as well as a small slot where you can store a pen.
See it on AmazonThis Razor That Comes With A Protective Travel Case
Amazon
It's always a good idea to bring a razor with you on vacation, and this one even comes with a protective travel case that keeps it safe as it jostles around in your suitcase. It's also smaller than most razors, which'll help you save space in your bag — and each order includes one blade refill to get you started.
See it on AmazonThese Travel Bottles That Are TSA-Approved
Amazon
The only downside to not checking a bag is that all the liquids in your carry-on have to be packed in small TSA-approved bottles, like these ones. On the plus side, their leakproof lids won't explode in your bag. And each one is made from flexible silicone, it's easy to squeeze out anything that's inside.
See it on AmazonThis Aloe Vera Gel Is A Must-Have For Sunburnt Skin
Amazon
No one plans on getting sunburned, but if it does happen? You'll be glad you packed this bottle of aloe vera gel. And unlike the cheap bottles you can find in drug stores, this one is made without any xantham, allowing it to absorb quickly into skin without any sticky residues leftover.
See it on AmazonA Luggage Scale That Costs Less Than Checking A Bag
Amazon
Don't risk having to pay oversize fees for your bag — use this luggage scale to see how much it weighs before you leave for the airport. It's small enough to fit in a purse, which means you can also take it with you on your trip. One battery also comes included.
See it on AmazonThe Pimple Patches That Help Blemishes Heal Quickly
Amazon
Few things bum me out more than waking up on vacation with a surprise pimple — that's why I always bring a few of these pimple patches with me. The hydrocolloid dressing absorbs pus, helping flatten your pimple quickly so that it's easier to conceal under makeup. The best part? Results are visible in just six hours.
See it on AmazonThis Pool Float That's So Instagrammable
Amazon
Trendy unicorn pool floats can be expensive — but after a little digging, I was able to find this one that's available for less than $40. It's rated to hold up to 400 pounds, which means you can fit two people on it without having to worry about it popping. Plus, quick-inflate valves help you blow it up fast.
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