Bamboo clothing and what to take on a weekend trip
Short answer: Two sets of underwear, two pairs of socks, one set of nightwear, an extra top and a layer you can take off. That covers two nights without filling more than a small bag and leaves room for the unexpected.
Underwear and socks
Two of each covers two days. If you wash along the way, one set is enough, because bamboo viscose can be rinsed in a sink and hung up to dry overnight. Pack them in a small pouch so they are easy to find in your bag and stay separate from everything else. See bamboo underwear for men.
Nightwear you can wear in the morning
A neutral set works both for sleeping and for breakfast. That saves you a set and gives you something comfortable to change into when you come back in the evening. Choose a colour and a fit you do not mind being seen in around the hotel or cabin. See bamboo loungewear for women.
An extra top
Tops get dirty first, because they are what others see and what catches marks from food and coffee. An extra T-shirt weighs almost nothing and takes up very little space when rolled. Choose a neutral colour that goes with everything else you bring, so it can be combined freely. See bamboo T-shirts for men.
A layer you can take off
A zip sweater handles changes in temperature without you packing two sweaters. You can wear it open in the sun and closed in the evening, and drape it over your shoulders in a restaurant with cold air conditioning. Wear it while travelling, so it takes up no space in your bag. See sweatwear.
Roll everything
Rolled clothes take up less space and crease less than folded ones. Lay the piece flat, fold the sleeves in and roll it tightly from the bottom. Soft fabrics like bamboo viscose are especially well suited because they do not get sharp creases. Read more about looking after your clothes under washing and care.
Wear the bulkiest items
Wear the bulkiest pieces, such as the sweater and a pair of trousers, while you travel. That leaves room in the bag for everything else, and you have a warm layer on in the train or car. It is a small trick that often makes the difference between a small bag and a suitcase.
A bag for worn clothes
Pack a thin cloth bag or a laundry bag for worn clothes. That keeps them separate from the clean ones, and you can empty the bag straight into the washing machine when you get home. A laundry bag also protects soft clothing in the machine, so it is useful both on the trip and afterwards.
Check the weather before packing
Even on a short trip the weather can change. Check the forecast the day before and adjust the list. If rain is expected, put a thin rain jacket at the top of your bag. If it is warm, the sweater can be swapped for another T-shirt. The list is a starting point you adapt to the trip.
When you get home
Empty the bag the same day and put the worn clothes in the wash. Damp clothes left in a closed bag can start to smell. Wash at 40 degrees without fabric softener and let everything air dry. Then it is all ready for the next trip, and the bag goes back in the cupboard clean and dry.
Frequently asked questions
How much should you pack for a weekend trip?
Two sets of underwear and socks, one set of nightwear, an extra top and a layer you can take off. That covers two nights and fits in a small bag, especially if you roll your clothes.
Can nightwear double as loungewear?
Yes, if it is neutral. That saves you a set and gives you something comfortable to wear in the morning and in the evening when you are back in your room.
Is rolling better than folding?
Yes. Rolled clothes take up less space and get fewer sharp creases. Soft fabrics are especially suited, and it is easier to see what you have packed when you open the bag.
You can find the full range at Bamboo-Clothing.com.
