Packing for a weekend trip can be either stressful or exciting, or somewhere in between. It’s tempting to pack more than what you want and need, and you may pay the price for it with a heavy suitcase and hefty baggage fee to go with it.

Is it really necessary to bring a laptop, DSLR, a GoPro, five sets of outfits, four pairs of shoes, a toiletry case full of makeup products for just a two or three-day trip? Get your things together! Don’t overthink it and pack only what you need.

1. Draw up a list

You may think this one isn’t really that necessary since you’re going on an out-of-town trip and not to the grocery store. Nevertheless, it puts your packing into perspective with an itemized list. Make notes of your daily essentials, check the weather so you know what type of clothing to wear and possible gear/equipment you need to bring. Now that you have a clear view of what you need, it’s time to pack. If you find extra space in your bag, feel free to toss in a few accessories.

2. Choose your clothes accordingly and practically

Ask yourself, in all honesty, is it really essential to have five different outfits for a three-day trip? Realistic and practical—keep these words in mind as you pack so that you don’t just put in unnecessary garments and accessories. What you’ll actually wear is different from what you think you’ll wear. Consider neutral colors of clothing that you can mix-match in order to open up a myriad of outfit possibilities. This enables you to pack less while still having more outfit options. Plus, you’ll have more space for other, more important items or even souvenirs.

3. Use travel-sized containers

This is a must, fellow travelers. Transferring your lotions, cologne, shampoo and the like into a travel-size containers (max. 100 ml.) will save you time when going through security and, more importantly, free up more space. Also, don’t forget to bring a plastic bag or two just in case. You never know when these can come in handy. Keep your toiletries in a clear, plastic baggie just in case anything leaks or spills on your carefully-selected clothing choices! Plus, airport security personnel will also appreciate it, as it makes it easier to see what you have.

4. Take a bag in your bag

Bring along a small, water-resistant (optional) canvas bag that you can fold up and place in your travel bag. Though you may normally use one for a trip to the supermarket, it’s still better to have it just in case you go overboard with purchasing souvenirs for your family and friends during your weekend-getaway. Plus, it’s smaller than a backpack, and women can avoid stuffing their purses.

5. Keep it light

Unless you’re traveling for business, leave your laptop at home—your smartphone enables you to do so much without it. Also opt for e-books instead of thick novels for reading material during the journey or when you have time to yourself. Remember, your weekend trip is for leaving stress behind, not for bringing it along with you.

What are your packing tips? We’d like to know—leave a comment below!

Chie Suarez sails from the PH and enjoys travelling with her family and dog. She found her passion for travelling quite late, not to mention she writes for Kim’s Luxury Accomodation & Romantic Getaways in Toowoon Bay, NSW, Australia.