Long weekends are the perfect time to escape your daily routine and recharge. Whether you’re taking time off work or enjoying a bank holiday weekend, you can make the most of it with a plan and a simple itinerary.
For weekend getaway inspiration, check our guide to making a short trip feel like a full holiday below.
Strategic Planning: The Foundation of a Perfect Break
Before you rush to book, take the time to pick a destination that suits your available time and interests. If you crave an outdoor adventure, hiking through mountain trails, or a city break, choosing a place that aligns with your holiday vision will help it run smoothly. Consider booking during the shoulder season between the peak and off-season to escape the hordes of tourists.
Once you’ve chosen your destination, you can use comparison apps and sites to find the best deals for transport and accommodation. While booking in advance can help ensure availability, last-minute holidays can offer great locations and prices.
Crafting Your Itinerary: Balancing Exploration and Relaxation
With limited time, it’s tempting to cram your internship with activities, but this can leave you feeling overwhelmed and tired when you return home. Instead, prioritise the must-see sights and experiences that interest you while leaving space for rest at cafes or bars in the afternoon and evenings.
Give yourself ample time to wander around local food markets or pop-up art galleries without the pressure of looking for an Instagram-perfect picture. Some of your best travel memories can come from unexpected moments.
Smart Packing and Travel Hacks for Efficiency
Stick to must-haves when packing for a weekend holiday, so prioritise versatile clothes in neutral shades that pair well together and can be layered. Avoid packing multiple raincoats or pairs of jeans, as you’ll likely only need one of each. When packing, use ziplock bags or packing cubes to separate items like t-shirts and shorts.
Rolling your clothes will save space by condensing them and reduce the chance of wrinkles, allowing you to wear them straight out of the suitcase. To make the most of your travel time, consider opting for early morning or late evening departures and choose a central location to minimise the time spent commuting into the city.
Maximising Your Time On The Ground: Local Immersion
If you’re interested in an authentic experience, skip chains and tourist traps and ask locals for dining recommendations or explore less-publicised areas. Catching a local performance at a bar or theatre can become an unexpected highlight.
Supporting street vendors and local cafes by purchasing their food and drinks will help boost the local economy and provide a more authentic cultural experience. It’s usually worth paying a little extra for a dessert or pastry from a baker that locals frequent, as it will taste better than the mass-produced alternatives at the airport.
