How to Pack for a City Break Without Turning Into Your Mother
A Guide for Girls in Their Twenties
There’s something impossibly glamorous about the idea of a city break, isn’t there? You, boarding a train or hopping on a flight with a perfectly curated hand-luggage-only suitcase, hair tied back with a silk scarf, a paperback novel peeking out of your tote bag, and just the faintest whiff of dry shampoo in the air. A je ne sais quoi of youth and chaos.
But then reality hits. You arrive in Rome with seven outfits, none of which are weather-appropriate, and you’ve forgotten your charger, your toothpaste, and that one bra that doesn’t make you look like you’re smuggling baguettes. The dream becomes a sweaty, overpacked nightmare.
So, here it is. My non-definitive, mildly chaotic but deeply heartfelt guide to packing for a 2 - 3 night city break aimed at women in their twenties who are still trying to strike the elusive balance between chic, sensible, and slightly feral.
1. Be Ruthless With Shoes
You need two pairs. Max. One for walking, ideally trainers that make you feel like a model off-duty and don’t leave you with blisters (Vans, Sambas, or New Balance depending on how much you’ve internalised TikTok). And one for dinners/drinks/dancing, a loafer, a heeled boot, or the mysterious “nice shoe that’s still comfortable” your mum has been going on about for years.
Do not pack heels unless you are genuinely planning to take taxis everywhere, in which case I love that for you and please take me with you next time.
2. Clothes: The Rule of Three
Three outfits. That’s it.
One for Day Wandering: Think jeans or a midi skirt and a top that says “I read The Cut but I’m not annoying about it.”
One for Evening: A dress that can be worn with trainers or boots, ideally something that makes you feel like a French woman who just accidentally got engaged.
One for Emergencies: Like if it’s raining or you spill gelato on your trousers. I always bring black leggings and an oversized jumper. Cosy, chic, can double as airport wear.
Bonus points if all of these outfits are modular, i.e can be mixed and matched with each other. You are playing travel chess. Plan accordingly.
3. Mini Toiletries are a Scam, But Pack Them Anyway
You will not use half of them. You will inevitably end up washing your face with hotel hand soap. But for reasons unknown, tiny shampoo bottles bring peace to the feminine soul. Decant your faves, throw them in a clear bag, and pretend you’re Gwyneth on the way to Paris Fashion Week.
Don't forget:
Toothpaste
Moisturiser that can double as a night cream
SPF, because we're grown now
Lip balm. At least two. You will lose one by Day 2.
4. The Power of a ‘Bits Bag’
A little pouch with all the things you usually forget until it’s Too Late:
Plasters (for when you lie about your shoes being “broken in”)
Painkillers
Mini perfume (ideally something that makes you smell expensive and elusive)
Charger + European adapter if needed
Tampons or pads, because your uterus has no respect for calendars
5. Hand Luggage ≠ Personality
You do not need to prove your worth by packing everything into a tiny tote bag that doubles as a health hazard. Get yourself a wheelie carry-on. You are not backpacking through Thailand; you’re going to Amsterdam for 48 hours and want to look nice in photos. Let’s be honest about our priorities.
6. The One Thing You’ll Forget
It’ll be something deeply annoying: sunglasses, your favourite earrings, the right pair of socks. Accept this. It’s the universe’s way of keeping you humble.
And Finally...
Bring the book you’ve been pretending to read for months. Buy the croissant, even if you already had breakfast.
Take photos, but don’t overdo it. Let yourself get a little lost. Kiss someone if the opportunity arises.
And if you forget your toothpaste, remember: most cities have a pharmacy. You’re not in the wilderness. You’re just a little bit disorganised, a little bit over-romantic, and entirely fine.
You’ve got this.
About Twenty Five Reset
Hi, I’m Niamh, and everyone was right, 25 really is a turning point. I finally know who I am, what I want, and my purpose… but it’s nothing like I expected.
I work in TV, but it doesn’t define me. This space is my reset embracing the mess, reflecting, and creating again. You can expect:
Pop Culture and a lot of chats about 2000 - 2020 TV Shows
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