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Most of us aren’t usually planning year-long trips around the world, but rather short weekend getaways somewhere closer to home.
For these trips, you don’t need an extensive packing list with clothes for every season, but rather just a few pieces you can throw in a bag and be on your way with.
The bag you pack for your trip should be small and easy to carry but still fit everything you need. We recommend something the size of a personal item.
Here are our picks for the best bags for weekend travel, all under $200.
Tom Bihn Nomad Tote, $190
While we love to leave our work behind when we go away for the weekend, you may have to get some work done while traveling. If this is the case, the Tom Bihn Nomad Tote is a great option with its device compartment that fits most 13” laptops.
This slim bag has a volume of 11L and the zip front pocket is ideal for organizing your valuables. The long shoulder straps make it easy to carry.
L.L. Bean Medium Boat and Tote, $44.95
The L.L. Bean Boat and Tote comes in a size range from small to extra-large. We think the medium is the perfect size for a weekend getaway. With a capacity of 17L, there will be plenty of space for all your things.
Each bag is handcrafted in Maine which means they come with some customization options. You can choose regular or long handles and you can even get it monogrammed if you like.
Eddie Bauer Bygone Backpack Tote, $80
With an 18L capacity, the Bygone Backpack Tote is another excellent bag for weekend travel.
It features a spacious main compartment and two side pockets. Plus, there is a secure zip pocket for keys and valuables. It is made with recycled nylon.
Best of all, it has adjustable padded straps which allow you to carry it as a backpack.
Everlane Recycled Nylon Tote, $85
We obviously love a bag with multiple carrying options because the Recycled Nylon Tote has both over-the-shoulder straps and shorter straps.
This tote has a 14L capacity, one main zippered compartment, a small internal zippered compartment, and an exterior slip pocket. It fits a 13” laptop and has a padded bottom. It is made from recycled nylon.
Travelon Anti-Theft Metro Medium Carryall Tote, $95
This Travelon Carryall Tote is a bag that has all the features you could need: water-resistant material, a 5-point anti-theft security system, a zippered mesh water bottle pocket, a tethered key clip with an LED light, and more!
It also comes with an RFID blocking air mesh pouch ideal for cards and your passport.
And again, this is a bag that can be worn two ways – either with the carry handles or an adjustable and removable shoulder strap. Pair it with this pouch for the full travel kit.
Baggallini Carryall Laptop Tote, $125
A weekend away is filled with lots of photo opportunities. Luckily the Baggallini Carryall Laptop Tote has a scratch-resistant grab & go phone pocket so you’ll never miss another picture perfect moment.
Other features include a 15” padded laptop sleeve, shoulder straps, and a removable crossbody strap. It also comes with an anti-theft wristlet for your cards. The material is lightweight and water-resistant.
Baggu Mini Cloud Bag, $52
Made from recycled heavyweight nylon, the Baggu Mini Cloud Bag is a great weekend getaway option. This lightweight bag is machine washable, has padded straps, a detachable interior pouch, and packs away into its own pouch for easy storage.
Don’t let the word ‘mini’ in the name fool you, the Mini Cloud Bag can fit a 14” laptop with room to spare!
Osprey Daylite Tote Pack, $90
Another convertible backpack tote! Carry it either as a tote bag or as a backpack.
The Daylite Tote Pack has a padded internal sleeve that can either hold your 14” laptop or a hydration bladder, making it a super versatile option. It has a volume of 20L, front and back panel pockets, an internal zippered mesh organization pocket with a key clip, dual side water bottle pockets, and a secure front panel zipper pocket.
Plus, it comes in lots of fun color options!
What’s your favorite bag for weekend travel?
P.S. You might also light these great travel backpacks for women who like bright colors.
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If you’re willing to carry a backpack– I’d suggest Volcom’s Anywhere Laptop Backpack. It’s 23L, has a ton of extra pockets and is generally super handy for that type of thing. 🙂 I’ve used it on a trip to the Philippines and stuffed 4 or 5 days worth of clothing it (obviously reused and washed some), with more stuff to boot, including a laptop.