I travel light by choice — especially for a short city break. There’s something so freeing about arriving with just a carry-on: no waiting at baggage reclaim, no lost luggage anxiety, and the delightful challenge of making everything work together. For a calming 48-hour city escape, my goal is to pack thoughtfully so I can move slowly and enjoy the city without fuss. Below I’ll walk you through exactly what I bring, why each item earns a spot, and a few small rituals that help me stay calm and present on a short trip.

My packing philosophy for a 48-hour city break

I aim for versatility, comfort and a small dose of chic. Everything must be wearable, mix-and-matchable, and useful. I prefer neutral colours that layer well, fabrics that don’t crease easily, and multi-purpose products — think a lip tint that doubles as a cheek stain, or a scarf that functions as a blanket on a chilly flight.

Carry-on essentials (the big picture)

These are non-negotiables for me. They go in my carry-on bag or personal item and stay easily accessible:

  • Carry-on suitcase or cabin bag: I use a hard-shell 22–24” carry-on with spinner wheels for city breaks — compact but roomy enough for two outfits and toiletries.
  • Day bag: A crossbody bag with an internal zip pocket. Small enough for walking, large enough for a water bottle and camera phone.
  • Documents & money: Passport (if needed), ID, boarding pass (I usually download it to my phone and keep a screenshot), credit card, some local cash in a small wallet.
  • Phone, charger, and adapter: I carry a compact USB-C charger and a small travel adapter (I love the universal ones from Anker).
  • Reusable water bottle: Collapsible or slim aluminium bottle — staying hydrated helps me feel calm.
  • Noise-cancelling earbuds or headphones: Essential for flights, trains, or a quiet moment in a café. My go-to are Sony WH-1000XM4 (they’ve saved many naps).

    • Clothes: a compact capsule wardrobe

    I pack clothes that layer and transition from daytime exploring to a relaxed evening. My rule is three bottoms, three tops, one outer layer, and two pairs of shoes at most.

    Item Why I pack it
    Black high-waist jeans Comfortable for walking, dressy enough for dinner
    Neutral midi skirt (linen blend) Airy for daytime, elevated for a museum or café
    Lightweight trousers (beige or navy) Polished and comfortable for travel days
    White tee Layering basic that freshens up any outfit
    Silk-like blouse Instantly makes an outfit feel special
    Striped long-sleeve top Classic, cosy and pairs with everything
    Light trench or utility jacket Weather-proof and stylish
    Comfortable trainers Walking shoes for daytime
    Loafers or ankle boots For nicer dinners and a more refined look
    Silk scarf Multi-purpose: neck, head, or bag accessory

    My outfit formula: one bottom + one top + one outer layer and accessories. For two days I usually plan three outfits — day one exploring, day one evening, and day two relaxed brunch and travel home. Rolling clothes tightly saves space and reduces creasing.

    Toiletries and beauty (carry-on friendly)

    I follow airline liquid limits and use small labelled containers. I prioritise products that soothe and simplify.

  • Facial mist: I bring a travel-size hydrating mist to refresh during travel — Caudalie or Avene travel sprays are favourites.
  • Mini cleanser and moisturiser: I decant a gentle cleanser and a rich moisturiser into 50ml tubes. A barrier cream helps if flights dry me out.
  • SPF: A travel-size sunscreen is non-negotiable even in winter.
  • Multi-use makeup: A tinted moisturiser with SPF, a cream blush (I use Glossier Cloud Paint occasionally) and a tinted lip balm make mornings quick and fresh.
  • Dry shampoo and hair tie: For an instant refresh after a long day walking.
  • Small perfume roller: A tiny scent roller (Le Labo or a drugstore alternative) is perfect for a calming scent ritual.

    • Wellness & small comforts

    Calm travel is partly about tiny rituals. These items make me feel grounded.

  • Journal and pen: Even five minutes of jotting down what I loved about the morning centres me.
  • Eye mask and light blanket/scarf: For restful naps on the plane or train.
  • Comfort snacks: A bar or some nuts — familiar flavours help if the local food isn’t quite right.
  • Essential meds: Any prescriptions, plus a small pouch with paracetamol, plasters and travel-size hand sanitiser.

    • Tech and photo kit

    I keep it minimal but good enough to capture moments.

  • Phone with good camera: I usually rely on my phone camera (iPhone or Pixel) for quick photos.
  • Portable charger: A 10,000 mAh power bank keeps me on the map without hunting for plugs.
  • Small point-and-shoot or instant camera (optional): If I’m setting aside time for slow, intentional photos I’ll bring a compact film camera — it forces me to be deliberate.

    • Packing order and what goes in my personal item

    I place heavier items like shoes and toiletry pouch at the bottom of the suitcase near the wheels, then roll clothes on top. My personal item (large tote or backpack) holds the things I need during transport: wallet, phone, earbuds, water bottle, book or Kindle, passport/document wallet and a scarf that doubles as a blanket.

    How I plan outfits to reduce decision fatigue

    Before I leave, I lay out outfits for each part of the trip: travel outfit, daytime exploring, evening. I choose one statement piece (a scarf, a blouse, or a standout coat) to elevate simple basics. If I reach for the same slip-on shoes for both daytime and evening, I save space.

    Packing tips that actually help

  • Use packing cubes: They keep outfits together and make unpacking swift. I have one cube for tops, one for bottoms, one for underwear and sleepwear.
  • Limit shoes: Shoes take the most space — two pairs is ideal: comfortable walking shoes and one smarter pair.
  • Wear bulky items on the plane: If you want to bring a bulky coat, wear it and free up space in the bag.
  • Bring a reusable tote: It folds away and is useful for groceries, shopping, or extra layering on chillier days.

    • Travelling with carry-on only forces me to be intentional in a way I find calming. Minimal luggage means fewer choices, faster transitions, and more time to enjoy cafés, little museums and aimless walks. If you want, I can share a printable packing checklist or a capsule wardrobe grid for specific climates — just tell me where you’re headed.