One of my husband’s and my favorite things to do is go on weekend getaways—especially road trips. There’s something so fun about packing a couple of bags, hopping in the car, and taking the scenic route. Heading up to Lake Arrowhead is one of our go-to spots for a quick escape. We love the fresh air and the beautiful mountain views.

It’s also a fun experience for our little one. He truly enjoys the road trip, and it’s always a great way to introduce him to new places and surroundings. These trips give us time to slow down, connect, and enjoy quality time together as a family.

When it comes to packing for these mini trips, I like to keep things simple. I stick to a few essentials that can be mixed and matched. Of course, the exact items change depending on the season, but for colder weather read my go-to essentials ahead.

xx Jules

PACKING ESSENTIALS

Two pairs of pants — one pair of jeans and one pair of sweats for comfort. Sometimes I’ll bring two pairs of jeans, but honestly one good pair usually gets me through the weekend. Leggings are also a great option if you’re planning to go for a hike or spend time outdoors.

One jacket or coat — perfect for staying warm and easy to wear all weekend. I prefer a coat because it instantly elevates an outfit if you decide to head into town for dinner, but it still works great for daytime exploring.

A couple of sweaters — I love sweatshirts because they’re cozy and make great layering pieces. A knitted sweater and a casual sweatshirt are the perfect combination for both comfort and style.

Two pairs of shoes — one comfortable sneaker for walking or exploring, and one sleek flat or casual boot to dress things up a bit if you go out to dinner or want a more polished look.

A couple of cute blouses or tops — perfect for wearing under your layers. When you’re indoors you can remove the heavier pieces and still have a nice top on.

Accessories — a hat or beanie can really pull an outfit together. Beanies are great for warmth, and I personally love a cowboy hat—they’re stylish and instantly make your outfit stand out.