I love a 48-hour city escape because it’s long enough to feel like a proper break and short enough to avoid overplanning or pre-trip stress. Over the years I’ve learned to travel light and intentionally — packing only what I actually need so I can stay flexible, eat where locals do, and wander without dragging a heavy case behind me. Below I’ll share my go-to packing list, outfit formulas, and tiny rituals that keep the trip feeling relaxed rather than rushed.
My packing mindset for two days
First: I plan for layers, not options. Instead of bringing multiple outfits for multiple scenarios, I choose versatile pieces that can be mixed and matched. Second: choose one “look” that works from daytime wandering to a casual dinner — this saves time and suitcase space. Third: prioritise comfort and a small capsule of beauty/tech items that genuinely make the trip better.
Carry-on bag or backpack?
I usually travel with a carry-on backpack (think: Aer Travel Pack, Cotopaxi Allpa Light, or a small Osprey travel pack). It keeps my hands free and fits under the plane seat. If I’m taking a suitcase, it’s a hard-shell cabin case with an internal compression strap — easier to keep clothes tidy. Whatever you pick, make sure it’s something you can handle for short walks and public transport without needing a porter.
Packing list — the essentials
- Day bag: a small crossbody or lightweight tote (think Cuyana mini or an Everlane market bag). Big enough for a camera, water bottle, and a paperback.
- One versatile jacket: neutral colour, packable. A trench, light puffer, or linen blazer works depending on season.
- Two tops: one casual tee/blouse and one nicer top for evening.
- One pair of bottoms: jeans, tailored trousers, or a skirt — pick what you’ll wear most.
- One dress or extra bottom (optional) for variety or if you expect dinner plans.
- Underwear + socks: two pairs of each (one to wear, one spare). Consider quick-dry fabrics if you want to handwash.
- Sleepwear: lightweight and compact.
- Comfortable walking shoes: one pair only. Neutral trainers, loafers, or ankle boots depending on season.
- Small toiletries: travel-sized cleanser, moisturiser, sunscreen, deodorant, toothpaste and a toothbrush. If you use a specific serum or product, bring a travel size or decant into a 30 ml bottle.
- Minimal makeup: tinted moisturizer, mascara, balm, concealer — keep it simple.
- Medication & basics: any prescriptions, pain relief, plasters.
- Chargers & adapters: phone charger, power bank (small), and a plug adapter for the country you’re visiting.
- Phone, earphones, and/or Kindle: choose one device for reading to save space.
- Reusable water bottle: collapsible is ideal.
- Face mask & hand sanitiser: still handy in public transport and crowded places.
- Copies of documents: digital copies of passport, booking confirmations, and any tickets saved offline.
- Small umbrella or packable raincoat depending on weather forecast.
Optional extras that make a 48-hour escape feel special
- Small notebook and pen: I like jotting down a cafe name, an idea, or a prompt for later.
- Compact camera: I sometimes bring a Fujifilm X100 series for better photos than a phone.
- Snack pack: a couple of protein bars or a sachet of nuts for long museum queues or late arrivals.
- Lightweight scarf: doubles as a blanket on planes or a picnic spread at a viewpoint.
Packing strategy — how I fit it all in
I roll clothes to save space and reduce creases. Heavier items go against the back of the bag. I keep toiletries in a slim, clear pouch that can be pulled out at security and a small day-bag essentials pouch for phone, mask, cards and keys.
| Item | Where I pack it |
|---|---|
| Jacket | Worn on travel day or packed across the top |
| Shoes | One pair on feet; soft bag for travel shoes if needed |
| Toiletries | Zip pouch in front compartment |
| Electronics | Protected sleeve in laptop/tech compartment |
| Day bag | Inside main bag or worn |
Outfit formulas to simplify choices
Here are two easy outfits that cover most short-city-escape needs.
- Day exploring: breathable tee + jeans/casual trousers + comfortable trainers + light jacket. Add sunglasses and a crossbody bag.
- Evening: swap the tee for a nicer blouse or a simple dress; swap trainers for loafers or low-heel ankle boots. Keep the jacket for warmth.
Neutral colours and a pop of accessory (a scarf or bold earrings) keep looks fresh with minimal pieces.
Practical travel-day tips I use every time
- Check the weather the morning of departure and adjust the jacket/shoes accordingly.
- Charge devices the night before and put charging cables in a dedicated pouch so they don’t rattle around.
- Download offline maps and any museum or transport apps you might need.
- Leave a little space in your bag for market purchases or a bakery haul — nothing ruins a trip faster than an overstuffed bag on the way home.
- Pack an emergency outfit in a small, zip-sealable bag: underwear and a top in case of delays or lost luggage.
What I rarely bring (and why)
I avoid bringing bulky hair tools — a quick dry shampoo and a smoothing cream work well for two days. I don’t bring large guidebooks; instead, I print a tiny itinerary or use notes on my phone. Also, I skip packing multiple pairs of shoes because city escapes are for walking, not shoe changes.
With this approach I find the whole weekend is calmer: I spend less time deciding what to wear and more time discovering a new neighbourhood, lingering in coffee shops, or deciding whether to follow a map or simply wander. Small kit, big experience — that’s my rule for relaxed 48-hour city escapes.
