There’s something wildly underrated about a weekend escape. Two days - maybe three if you’re bold - to reset, recharge, and remember there’s more to life than emails, errands, and sitting in traffic. You don’t need two weeks in Europe to recharge and explore somewhere new. (But that sounds great too.) Sometimes, a quick weekend away is the couple's therapy that actually works.

But a great couples getaway doesn’t just magically come together. You need a bit of strategy. A little planning. The right vibe.

These are the most important things you really need to make it happen.

1. Pick a destination that makes sense - and makes you feel something

You don’t need to fly halfway around the world for a memorable trip - or often a flight at all. The best romantic weekend trips are usually within driving distance. A cabin in the woods. A coastal town you’ve never explored. A city with just enough grit and glamour to keep it interesting.

What you don’t want? Overwhelm. Choose somewhere close enough to avoid travel fatigue, but far enough to feel like a real escape. Short term rentals are usually the way to go - more space, more privacy, and the freedom to cook, lounge, or dance around in your pajamas like you own the place, and the flexibility to go places that don't have good hotel options.

2. Pack like a pro and take less than you think

Keep it simple. You don’t need to haul your entire closet for 48 hours. Here’s exactly what to bring for a weekend away that’s light, functional, and still cute:

Clothing Essentials:

• 1 daytime outfit (something comfy but polished)
• 1 evening outfit (dinner-worthy, but still packable)
• 1 loungewear set or pajamas
• 1 light jacket or sweater, or heavy coat for winter
• 1 swimsuit (always - you never know)
• 1 pair of walkable shoes
• 1 pair of sandals or boots, depending on weather
• Underwear + socks for each day

Toiletries & Beauty:

• Skincare (cleanser, moisturizer, SPF)
• Minimal makeup (just the basics)
• Toothbrush + toothpaste
• Hairbrush + travel-size styling product
• Deodorant
• Razor, if needed
• Any daily meds or supplements

Extras That Actually Matter:

• Book or Kindle
• Small crossbody or day bag
• Sunglasses
• Reusable water bottle
• Travel-sized laundry bag (for dirty stuff on the way home)
• Mini first-aid kit (Band-Aids, Advil, allergy meds)
• Portable phone charger
• Snacks for the road
• A sleep mask or earplugs (especially if you’re staying in the city)

Stick to a color palette so everything mixes and matches, roll your clothes to save space, and double-check your list before you zip it up. Packing light isn’t about bringing less - it’s about bringing better.

How To Pack: Best Weekender Bags for every trip

For a romantic beach weekend

• L.L. Bean Boat and Tote (Zip-Top) – Coastal classic. Durable and unbothered by sand.
• Mark & Graham Canvas and Leather Weekender – Feminine, stylish, and beach-house ready.
• Rothy’s Lightweight Weekender – Easy to carry, machine washable, and made from recycled water bottles.

For a mountain or cabin getaway

• Patagonia Black Hole Duffel (40L) – Tough, weather-resistant, and made for the outdoors.
• Cotopaxi Allpa 50L Duffel Bag – Rugged but cool, with grab handles for tossing in the trunk.
• Quince All-Day Neoprene Duffel Bag – Eco-friendly and made from recycled water bottles, waterproof, durable, and under $100!

For a city break

• Beis The Weekender – Stylish enough for the boutique hotel lobby, tough enough for subway stairs.
• Cuyana Triple Zipper – Sleek and low-maintenance, goes with any outfit.
• Quince Expandable Carry-On Suitcase – Quince is the GOAT for minimalist design, luxury feel, budget price. When you don't want to haul a duffel bag. 

4. Don’t Over-schedule Your Weekend

One museum. One cute brunch spot. One trail or beach walk. Done. The whole point of a weekend away is to slow down, not to check every box in a travel guide - which can be a challenge when you only have a couple of days and you want to make the most of it. . Leave room for spontaneity. That bookstore you stumble into might end up being the highlight. That three-hour nap you didn’t plan? Possibly even better. Aim for presence, not productivity.

5. Unplug like you mean it

Put your phone down. No, really. You’ve spent all week glued to it. The endless scroll will still be there Monday. A romantic couples trip means actually being with each other - not half-listening while responding to Slack messages. Bring cards, books, playlists, snacks. Leave the digital noise behind, even just for a day. That’s where the magic is.

No matter where you’re headed, it’s about the experience, the memories, and making time for each other - so let go of the stress and enjoy your weekend away.