PACK LIKE A PRO
Remember: Your travel bag isn’t your closet—choose items that can do double duty. Here’s everything you need for a weekend away
Build on Basics
4 pairs of undies: One for each day plus two extras.
1 bra: Need a strapless or a racerback, too? Try the crazy-versatile Victoria's Secret 100-way bra ($50, victoriassecret.com).
Sleepwear: Shorts and a cami take up little space. A thin nightie, even less.
2 swimsuits: Shop for mix-and-match styles.
1 summer jacket or light sweater: Cashmere, merino wool, and cotton are lightweight but warm enough to ward off restaurant-AC chill.
3 tops: Choose wrinkle-resistant fabrics like jersey, crinkled linen (genius!), or anything made with Lycra.
3 bottoms: Black, white, khaki, and denim go with any top.
1 dress: Or a pretty top to wear out at night with black or white bottoms.
3 pairs of shoes: Bring your workout sneakers and whatever you wear Friday, plus a dressier option like cute flats or sandals with a kitten or wedge heel.
Don't Leave Home Without...
Workout clothes: Go two-in-one: a tank with a built-in bra. Plus bottoms, socks, and sneakers that are thin and flexible--try the Nike Jana Star Waffle III ($50, nike.com).
Hat with a brim: Make sure it folds but retains its shape.
Flip-flops!
Sunglasses: Look for shades that offer 99 to 100 percent UV protection.
Small tote bag: To bring to the beach or the pool.
Digital camera, cellphone, mp3 player, and chargers
Sunscreen: Try Neutrogena Healthy Defense oil-free sunblock in SPF 30 or 45 ($10, walgreens.com).
Sarong: Use it as a beach blanket, or wear it as a skirt or dress when you go to lunch.
Toiletries
Find airline-friendly three-ounce sizes of shampoo, conditioner, and toothpaste, plus OTC meds and more, at minimus.biz.
Makeup: Save space with an all-in-one compact that includes colors for eyes, lips, and cheeks. One option: Laura Mercier First Blush Face Palette ($55, sephora.com).
Perfume: A spill-proof, travel-size rollerball is the way to go. Check out Stella eau de parfum by Stella McCartney ($17, sephora.com).
Compact hair dryer: The BaByliss PRO TT Tourmaline travel dryer ($29.99, stylesource.com) fits the bill.
Hairbrush and comb
2 plastic bags: One for wet items, one for dirty duds.