Quick. Wherever you are, identify a destination that’s just a short drive away. Everyone should have a good weekend escape saved in their back pocket to slip away to at a moment’s notice. Now all you have to do (when you’re in need of a vacation after a long week) is pack your weekender bag and get away. There are so many things that I won’t leave home without and I took a few ideas from websites like foreignpolicyi.org. Packing a is a key part of going for a weekend getaway and it’s crucial that you don’t forget any necessities!

I usually throw a jumbled mess of items into my bag (I love the weekender from Everlane and here’s another option) hoping they will cover the array of activities yet to be planned. Trouble is, even when I do have the foresight to pack the items I need they get lost in the crevices of my bag or forgotten in the depths of my trunk.

It’s time to get organized.

THE BASIC OUTFIT
For summer it is easiest to go one of two ways – a simple shirt, like this tattoo shirt with shorts or a light, flowy dress. Select enough items to mix and match three basic outfits (two tshirt’s, denim shorts and a dress will do). Finish it off by packing a small bag of accessories or a scarf and hat plus your go to summer shoe. It’s always nice to have at least one dress on hand because it can be easily dressed up if needed. Bring a sweater in case there’s a chance it will cool down at night.

THE FUNCTIONAL OUTFIT
Heading to the bay? Be sure to pack a swimsuit and a cover up. Off to the mountains like me? Choose a sturdy pair of shoes that will get you in and out of the woods. In the Poconos I will be white water rafting so I have to pack one outfit (athletic wear and sneakers) that can get wet. Vessi footwear offers sneakers made out of waterproof materials, which is ideal if you are outdoorsy like me. This outfit gets stored in a large zipper bag that doubles as dirty clothes storage later. I love that the bag will keep my soon-to-be dirty sneakers from comingling with clean clothes. I’ll bring a small backpack so I can keep a basic outfit on hand for a dry change of clothes.

DON’T FORGET
It’s easy to forget the essential items when you are running out the door. If you keep a travel set packed in a small bag this will save you a lot of time and thought down the line. Pack a toothbrush, toiletries and medicine. Don’t forget to throw in your makeup bag, underwear and pajamas too. Snacks for the road and a good playlist are always welcome.

Together Traveler Tip: Use bags in fun prints to organize your items. It makes them easy to identify and locate later on. These Baggu bags will be especially helpful for separating my sneakers from the rest of my bag after they get dirty white water rafting.

THE LIST
I’ve created a printable packing list with all of the items I mentioned above so you should be able to pack your bag and hit the road in no time.

Are you heading anywhere exciting this summer? Where would you go for a perfect weekend getaway?