Weekend getaways are the best kind of reset.
A break from emails, dishes, group chats, even if it’s just for a couple of days. Whether you’re heading to a quiet cabin, a cozy Airbnb by the lake, or just hitting the road with no real plan, there’s something so refreshing about stepping away from the usual routine.
Most of us are pretty good at packing the basics, phone charger, toothbrush, maybe a hoodie just in case. But some things? You don’t realize you need them until you’re out there and thinking, “I wish I had brought that.”
So, let’s help you pack smarter next time. Here are 5 little things you probably didn’t think to bring, but totally should. Trust on this, your future self (and your weekend) will thank you.
A Pair of Versatile, Comfortable Shoes
You might be tempted to pack just one pair, maybe your go-to sneakers or flip-flops. But trust me: the right pair of shoes can make or break a trip. You need something that walks the line between comfort and style.
Imagine this: You’re exploring a charming little town, hopping between cafes, art markets, and maybe even a spontaneous nature trail. Your feet are screaming by noon because those stylish kicks weren’t made for walking. Or worse, you packed only hiking boots, and now you’re trying to wear them to dinner.
The Solution?
Pack at least one pair of shoes that does it all:
- Comfy enough to walk in for hours
- Cute enough for that last-minute dinner reservation
- Practical for sudden weather shifts
If you’re in Canada, check out a local shoes store in Canada. They carry a great range of all-day wear options that don’t sacrifice style for support. Investing in the right shoes once means you won’t have to think about it next time.
A Compact Power Bank (That Actually Holds a Charge)
Here’s the thing: your phone does everything on a weekend trip. It’s your map, your playlist, your camera, your emergency contact tool, and sometimes even your hotel key. Running out of battery isn’t just annoying, it’s stressful.
Sure, you probably already own a power bank. But is it small enough to throw in your bag? Does it charge your phone fully or just give it a 20% boost?
A quality, compact power bank might not feel like a “must-have”, until you’re watching your battery drop from 5% to 3% on a secluded hiking trail with no signal.
Pro tip: Go for one with at least 10,000mAh capacity and fast charging. You’ll thank yourself later.
A Quick-Dry Towel
Not glamorous, but absolutely game-changing.
Let’s say your Airbnb has no towels. Or you want to take a spontaneous dip in the lake. Or you get caught in the rain and need to dry off quickly. A small, microfiber quick-dry towel will save the day more times than you can count.
They roll up to almost nothing, dry super fast, and can double as a blanket, shawl, or even a pillow in a pinch.
You can find plenty of options online or in outdoor gear stores, but don’t overlook multi-purpose lifestyle shops — or even travel sections of your favourite shoes or accessories retailers like shoes store Canada, where they often stock these underrated gems.
A “Just in Case” Pouch
You don’t need a full emergency kit, but having a small pouch of essentials can make your weekend go from stressful to smooth. Think of it as your “I got this” kit.
Here’s what to throw in:
- Band-aids and blister pads (because new shoes can surprise you)
- Mini hand sanitizer
- Travel-size painkillers or allergy meds
- Safety pins and a couple of hair ties
- Breath mints or gum
- A small packet of tissues or wet wipes
It doesn’t take up much space, but it covers a ton of “uh-oh” moments. You won’t use it every time, but the moment you need it, you’ll feel like a genius.
Bonus tip: Stash a couple of reusable tote bags in there. Handy for shopping, beach trips, or carrying your muddy shoes back without ruining your backpack.
A ‘Mood-Setting’ Item
This one might sound a little extra, but hear it out. To be true, a getaway is supposed to feel a bit unique. It is not about where you go, it’s about how you feel while you are there.
So why not pack one small item that helps set the vibe?
It could be:
- A travel-sized candle or essential oil roller
- A Bluetooth speaker for music wherever you are
- A favourite book you only read on trips
- A disposable camera for fun, low-pressure memories
- Even a cozy scarf or sweater that screams “weekend mode”
These little touches shift your brain into relaxation mode faster than you’d expect. It’s the difference between a break and a real mental escape.
Final Thoughts
You don’t need to pack your whole life for a weekend trip — but packing smart makes a world of difference. And sometimes, the things you don’t think of can be the ones that save the day (or at least your feet).
Let’s recap:
The right pair of shoes? Non-negotiable. Check out Shoes Store Canada for stylish, comfy travel options.
- A power bank that works, not just exists.
- A towel that dries quickly and folds tiny.
- A pouch of “tiny but mighty” items.
- Something that sets the mood and makes the trip feel like a getaway.
So next time you’re throwing things into a bag at the last minute, pause. Remember this list. Add that one extra thing that makes your weekend 10x better. Future-you will be so grateful.
