This post is extra special because it marks the end of an era for me! I’ve spent the past year and a half living the long-distance girlfriend life while Darius finished up grad school. And come December, that chapter officially closes! No more hopping on buses, packing for weekends away, or calculating how many outfits I can squeeze into one bag. But before I retire my trusty weekender, I thought I’d share all the details of what goes in it and the little tricks I’ve learned that made those trips easier.
The Bag Itself
Your weekender bag sets the tone. I personally love a structured bag with plenty of compartments because nothing is worse than digging through a bottomless pit for deodorant or your charger. Look for one with:
- Wide opening (so you can see everything at a glance)
- A trolley sleeve (to slip over a suitcase handle if you’re flying)
- Pockets inside and out (you’ll thank yourself later).
My Favs:
Marc Jacobs Canvas Large Tote Bag Buy Here!
The Beis Weekender in Maple Buy Here!
The Essentials I Never Skip ✨
1. Toiletry Minis
I keep a little pouch with lotion, deodorant, hand sanitizer, pads, chapstick, lip gloss, and perfume. Think fresh and functional. Travel minis keep everything light, and trust me, you’ll use them more than you think.
2. Comfy Outfit + “Wow” Outfit
Weekend trips call for multipurpose clothes, leggings or sweats for lounging, plus one “wow” outfit for date night. I learned the hard way that packing too many clothes only makes my bag heavier (and messier).
3. Chargers + Tech Must-Haves
Phone, AirPods, laptop if needed and don’t forget the chargers! I pack mine in a small zipper pouch so they never get tangled or lost.
Here is my favorite one! Electronics Organizer Travel Case
4. Snacks 🍫
This might sound silly, but snacks save the day. Whether it’s waiting for a train or hanging out in the evening, a protein bar or some candy always came in clutch.
5. Personal Touches
I used to slip in little extras for Darius, like a protien drink for him to try, a shirt he left behing at my house, or something small to surprise him with. It’s the little details that made those long-distance weekends special.
Tips & Tricks 💡
- Pack for the vibe, not the “just in case.” If it’s a weekend trip, you really don’t need 4 pairs of shoes.
- Use packing cubes or pouches. They keep things neat and save time unpacking.
- Leave space. I always left a little room for something new (because let’s be real, a Target or mall run always happened).
Closing Out This Chapter 💕
As I get ready to unpack my weekender for one of the last times, I feel this mix of gratitude and excitement. Long distance has stretched me, taught me patience, and made our weekends together feel so intentional. But I’m beyond ready for this next chapter where my bag won’t just be for visiting, it’ll be for adventures, vacations, and all the trips to come.
To my fellow long-distance girlfriends out there: hang in there. Pack light, love big, and know that one day, your season will shift too. 💌
The Day He left 😦
BIG GIRL TIME 
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