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Tips & Tricks · March 29, 2022

What to Pack for a 3 Day Trip: Ultimate Weekend Packing List

Your short trip is booked and you are ready to rock! Except when it comes to packing. Knowing what to pack for 3 day trip can be stressful when you have so much on your mind! But you are in the right place because this post will make sure you pack everything you need and includes a list, while also motivating you to PACK LIGHT.

No matter what type of trip you are going on—a short business trip, a fun weekend getaway, or a little bit of both, reviewing the lists below are a good idea! First, let’s get started with some tips.

5 Tips for Your Weekend Trip Packing List

Here are a few things to have in mind in order to keep packing as simple as possible.

1. Start Early

Make a list and start laying clothes out that you’re interested in bringing the week before your trip begins. This will give you a chance to weigh options and make decisions on what you really need vs. doing it in a panic and taking your entire closet with you.

I prefer to set up my list by day. For instance, in an iPhone Note I will list out Friday, Saturday, Sunday, Monday. Underneath each day I’ll type out everything I’ll need to wear that day. TIPS:

• Include EVERYTHING down to pairs of underwear and socks. I put my pairs of shoes as well.
• It does not mean you need to wear it that specific day, but this will help you not overpack and help you feel confident that you will have enough clothes.

This brings us to our next tip…

2. Pack in Outfits

Do not, I repeat do not,  pack clothes by individual item. You want to bring your best-fitting jeans? Great, what are you going to wear with them? Your favorite leggings? Grab them and figure out what top(s) are your best option.

Envision your days away and imagine which types of clothes you will need. From there, make individual piles for each outfit/day.

And don’t forget to check the weather forecast. Warm weather or cold will obviously be a huge indicator for what you need to bring.

In the photo below, you’ll see three “columns” with each day’s outfit. And remember, there is actually no law stating that you can’t wear something more than once—especially things like cardigans and jeans. This brings us to…

3. Mix and Match is Key

Can you bring interchangeable outfits? Triple points for you. Pack a cute, comfortable, black dress with a cardigan that will be perfect for exploring the city. The next night, replace the cardigan with a scarf and you’re ready for the bar. That’s three pieces of clothing for two outfits instead of a day-time outfit plus three night-time outfits because you might want to wear the green dress, maybe the pink one and this yellow one is cute too .

If you are only gone for a weekend, your bag can be small—cheaper and easier to manage. That said, you need to be smart with your space…

4. Roll Into More Space

Tightly rolled clothes will go much farther in your backpack, carry-on suitcase, or duffel bag than folding and they will actually be less wrinkly. Roll everything, place the largest items on the bottom like jeans and jackets and work your way up from there. When you don’t have much space, this goes a long way!

5. Your Travel Outfit

Think layers. Wear your jacket, your biggest top, and bulkiest shoes in order to avoid all of this going into your small bag. You might get a little toasty but you can de-layer once you are at the airport gate. PRO TIP: I’ve never been told I couldn’t have a jacket (or two) in my arms when boarding.

What to Pack for 3 Day Trip: Bonus Tips

Here are a few extra things to keep in mind when you are packing for a weekend trip.

• Packing Cubes : These is the BEST WAY to utilize more space in a small bag.
• Use. Your. Pockets.:  Jacket pockets, jeans pockets, personal item pockets, use them all! These are the perfect place for smaller items (makeup, lip balm, phone chargers, sunglasses, etc.) when you can’t fit one more thing in your carry-on bag.
• Dryer Sheets: Throw a few between layers of clothes to keep everything smelling fresh!
• Backpack = Purse:  Invest in a cute backpack and not only do you have luggage but a purse to walk around the city with—hands-free, mind you.
• Plastic Bag or large Ziploc Bag : Bring one with you to store dirty underwear, socks, wet swimsuits, etc.
• Cold Weather Travel Tip : If you are going somewhere cold, think more in extra layers vs. bulky items. A base layer, light fleece, and water-repellent outer layer will pack better than one oversize sweater – and you will have more items as options throughout your trip.

What to Pack for 3 Day Trip—Checklist!

Let’s get an actual what to pack for 3 day trip checklist going. Use this as a guide when you are creating your packing list in your phone or on a sheet of paper. Remember, START WITH THE ESSENTIALS. From there, you can add in a couple of extra items or outfits you “might” want to wear—IF there is space.

One pair of bottoms for number of days. For three, you will have a pair of jeans (or jean shorts), one pair of leggings, and a pair to wear while traveling. Remember, if you have room at the end, you can easily get another pair of pants in.

One top for number of days that you matched with a pair or bottoms. Wear the bulkiest top when you travel and put the rest in your bag. Neutral, everyday tops are the way to go for convenience and being happy with what you decided to bring.

Bonus: Dresses. No pants = more space!

Cardigan/Sweater

One total. It’s best if you wear it but you should have room to pack. The best option is a black or neutral color sweater that works well with all of your top options and can be worn more than once, if needed.

Jacket (Optional)

If a jacket is necessary, make sure you wear it on travel day (even a rain jacket!) so you don’t take up a ton of space in your bag!

Bathing Suit + Cover Up (Optional)

One of each for the weekend. If you happen to have space and want to bring an extra, go for it. These items can be rolled up and made small.

One pair. A sleep shirt and a pair of light sweats or shorts. If you have space, throw in an extra. Remember, a top that you bring might work just fine, too.

Socks/Underwear/Bras

One set of each for number of days. Keep in mind that this will give you one extra just in case since you are wearing a set on travel day.

T he biggest pair on your feet + 1 extra. Comfort is key. You do not want to be walking around in uncomfortable shoes. Pro Tips when it comes to your shoes:

• Store your socks in your shoes for extra space —and to keep your shoes in form.
• If your backpack has a spot for a water bottle, think of it as a spot for flip flops.
• Tie your shoes to the top of your backpack. Remember, this is efficiency—not fashion 🙂

Extras + Bathroom Essentials

Fit what you can. Don’t forget: Hotels are going to have towels, shampoos, lotions, hair dryers, etc. so don’t waste space with these items. The rest is for a book, phone charger, jewelry, small makeup bag, workout shirt, wallet, etc.

Overall Rule of Thumb: If you question it, leave it at home.

Lastly, Why You Will LOVE to Pack Light

Even if you think you won’t or proclaim yourself to be an “over packer,” you will be hooked to packing light after the first time. And here are the added bonuses:

You have fewer options. You eliminate the  hmmm, what am I going to wear today? Or the ew I hate this, I’m changing.  It’s simple and efficient with no time lost. Instead of bringing 10 outfits you like, focus on 4 that you love. And before you hit me with I just like options , stop.

You’re not going to worry about more options if you don’t have them. Quit wasting precious vacation time wishing you had the off-the-shoulder striped shirt when you have the cute, v-neck blue one. You look great! And should spend less time in your hotel room and more having a good time on your trip.

Saves Energy

Post-vacation laundry. I know you’ve been in the situation where you open your suitcase to unpack, realize you have no idea what’s clean and what’s dirty so you do a monster load of laundry that’s likely half full of clean clothes. Double the loading, double the switching, double the folding, and double the dreaded putting away. No thanks. Pack only what you know you will wear and come home with one, small size load of laundry.

Saves Money

We know how a lot of the airines charge for bags now! What a joke. But you should not have to incur an additional cost just for your clothes! Keep things in a small personal item bag for an even more afforadble trip!

Reduces Stress

Traveling is a breeze when you are doing it lightly.  Everything you have is on your back! It’s easier to get around, store and there are fewer moments of  oh my gosh, where’s my [insert super important thing here]?!”

What to Pack for 3 Day Trip: Weekend Packing List

There you have it. You are now a 3 Day Trip Packing Pro! Or at least on your way to packing a little bit less…baby steps. And if this What to Pack for a 3 Day Trip post inspired you to start planning your next trip, check out a few of my city reviews as recommendations and all of the great things you can do!

• How to Spend a Weekend in Dallas, Texas
• How to Spend Two Days at Zion National Park
• Things to Do in Sedona, Arizona

Did this post help you out? Support the work and pass along $5 for a Coors Light 😉 VENMO: @Amber-LBB or PAYPAL: [email protected]. THANK YOU.

You’ll Also Love

November 16, 2018 at 9:43 am

Great job, I’m just sorry it took me this long to learn how to pack. I just did 2 weeks with a carry on and lg. Purse. Keep up your wonderful blog Merv

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• Camping FAQ

What Should I Pack For A 3 Day Backpacking Trip?

• January 2, 2022

Planning out all the gear for your first 3 Day weekend backpacking trip can be overwhelming. An overnight trip doesn’t seem so daunting since you can survive anything for a single night, but nobody wants to be miserable all weekend. Don’t worry! Planning out your gear for a 3 day backpacking trip isn’t all challenging once you break it down to the basics.

What should I pack for a 3 day backpacking trip? The answer is pretty simple. Pa ck everything you would need for an overnight trip, plus extra consumables items like food, fuel, and toilet paper. It doesn’t matter if you go on a short 24 hour hike or a week long trip, most of your gear stays the same. Focus on the 10 essential pieces of backpacking gear, add in a sleep system, cooking gear, way to store your food, and a 40-50 liter pack.

Sorry that I make it seem seem so obvious, but I can almost guarantee you’re overthinking the topic. If you focus on the 10 essential backpacking items you should have more than enough gear to handle a 3 day backpacking trip. But what are the 10 essential items every backpacker needs to carry?

Table Of Contents

It doesn’t matter how far or long you’re traveling on a backpacking trip. You should pack the same basic items regardless of trip length. My overnight backpacking list and 2-Week List look almost identical. I carry extra food, fuel, and toilet paper, but it’s basically the same. So what do I need for a 3 day backpacking trip?

Gear List For A 3 Day Backpacking Trip

Hitting the trail with nothing but life’s essentials is one of lifes greatest outdoor adventures. Ask yourself a few questions before you start planning out a gear list. How far do you plan to hike? How remote is the location? What’s the weather like? Do you have to deal with bears(you’d need a bear canister, bear spray, etc).

Longer hikes and bad weather require additional gear. You’ll have to carry more clothing, gear, food, and figure out a way to filter water. Here’s a rundown of everything I bring on a backpacking trip. You might need to add additional items depending on the situation and always refer to the 10 essentials below to make sure you’re not forgetting anything.

Keep in mind that this list is deliberately comprehensive. It’s intended for trips deep into the backcountry where you need to be self-sufficient and carry everything in. Remember that loading your pack is a balancing act. You need to try to keep the pack weight low without getting rid of essential items. There are definitely things on this list that you can get rid of to cut weight(I’ll mark these optional).

Here’s a brief list of everything you need and then I’ll go into further detail with lots of optional items.

• 10 Backpacking Essentials (listed below)
• Hiking Boots or Trail Runners (lightweight athletic shoes also work)
• Tent or Other Means of Shelter
• Backpack (40-50 Liters is perfect for weekend trips)
• Sleeping Bag and Pad
• Stove and Fuel
• Food 2-2.5 lbs of food per day including snacks
• Water, water bottle, hydration pack and water filter (purification tabs as backup)
• Weather Appropriate Clothing (don’t need to change clothes everyday)
• Emergency Supplies and Hygiene Essentials
• Small Tent/Gear Repair Kit

Now that I went into the basic list I’ll continue to break it down further below. I’ll give a few product recommendations on harder to choose items. Make sure you print out the printer friendly PDF version for easy use at home.

1) Standard Backpacking Gear

A 30-50 Liter pack is perfect for overnight and short 2-3 day backpacking trips. I would aim more towards a 40-50 liter pack like the Osprey Rook 50 Liter for a 3 day trip. You can carry a bigger pack if you’re on a tight budget, but that adds a lot of unnecessary weight. Plus a half full pack can feel awkward on your back.

Optional Items: Trekking Poles, Compact lantern and flashlight, Tent Footprint, Pillow, Bear Spray, Bear Canister

2) Food and Water

Separate your food into quick snacks for the trail and fully prepared meals. I recommend planning out a few easy meals and packing each days meals separately for easy access. I like to weigh out all my meals and separate everything into ziplock bags.

Bring along lots of snacks to chow down on the trail. Look for high calorie snacks loaded with sugar and fats. Things like energy bars, hard cheese, nuts, jerky, dried fruits, etc. Anything that you can easily munch on to fend off food cravings until you’re ready to cook a real meal.

Planning out your water carrying needs means you’ll have to plan out water sources on a map. I like to plan my meal breaks and campsites around available water sources. As a general recomendation, you should plan on drinking at least 1/2 liter of water (1 Liter in Hot weather) per hour hiking to prevent dehydration.

Make sure you have a way to filter water and a backup method (purification tablets). Please note that water filters can’t remove viruses if you’re traveling in South America, Mexico and less developed parts of the world. A filter is good enough for 99% of the United States.

3) Cooking Supplies

You can really start to overdo it when it comes to cooking supplies. Try to keep your gear light by choosing a titanium pot and pan ( my favorite pot and pan set ), lightweight stove (MSR Pocket Rocket), and lightweight dishes/bowls, and utensils.

4) Clothing and Footwear

Check the weather conditions before heading out and make sure you dress for the conditions. This is one of the sections where you need to take my list as a general guide and plan accordingly. You probably won’t need a jacket/gloves/hat in 80 degree weather or raincoat with 0% chance of rain. Plan out your gear and drop unnecessary items.

Additional Items For Rain and Cold: Rain Jacket/Pants, Long Johns, Fleece Pants, Winter Hat, Gloves/Mittens, Insulated Jacket, Gaiters

Optional Items: sandals, bandana

5) Navigation Equipment

Navigation gear is easily one of the most important categories. I recommend carrying a GPS and waterproof physical map as backup. Note that a GPS isn’t a substitute for a map and compass. You really need to bring all three items

6) Emergency and First Aid

I highly recommend carrying a lightweight emergency shelter and emergency blanket just in case. It might seem like overkill, but 2oz of pack weight could save your life. Who knows what can happen if you hike away from your base camp.

7) Gear Repair

I like to carry a small repair kit to fix my tent, patch sleeping pads, and unclog my stove. The kit can be pretty basic. My entire kit weighs less than 4oz.

8) Health and Hygiene

Must Have Items

9) Sun and Insect Protection

10) backpacking extra items.

There are a bunch of random items that would be impossible to list. You may want to bring dry bags, stuff sacks, pack liners ( compactor bag ), sleeping bag liner, pack raincovers, etc. Only you can decide what’s actually necessary. Remember that pack weights limited and every pound you add slows you down. Pick and choose what you want to carry out of this list.

11)Personal Items

Focus on the 10 essentials for camping and backpacking.

Packing the “Ten Essentials” whenever you step into the backcountry is a good habit. It doesn’t matter if you’re going on an overnight or multi-week trip. You probably don’t need to bring a shelter and sleep system for a day hike, but the rest of the list applies in every backcountry situation.

So, what are the 10 essentials? Navigation, Illumination (Headlamp or Flash Light), Sun Protection, First Aid, Knife, Fire, Shelter, Extra Food, Extra Water, and Insulation(clothing, sleeping bag, rain sheel, gloves, etc). Some lists vary a little by including other safety items and appropriate footwear, but all the basics are there. The 10 essential list is fairly basic, but it includes everything you need to survive in the wilderness.

Let me clarify what I mean by “everything you need to survive”. Packing the 10 essentials will allow you to survive in the backcountry, but that doesn’t mean you will be comfortable. Obviously, you should carry a sleep system (sleeping bag and pad), cooking gear, 40-50 liter pack, toilet paper, etc. but you can survive without it. It would be crazy not to bring comfort items like a sleeping bag and toilet paper on a backpacking trip.

Now that I clarified that, let’s start breaking down the 10 essentials so you can start building up a 3 Day Backpacking Trip Gear List. The gear list above is more complete, but here’s a brief overview of the 10 essentials.

• Navigation: Carry a waterproof map, compass, watch and preplanned itinerary. Leave a copy of your route with a responsible friend or family member just in case you go missing. You may also want to carry a GPS Unit, but don’t rely on that without a map. Bring along your cell phone and portable battery charger as well.
• Sun Protection: Always carry sunscreen, chapstick for lips, and sunglasses. A long sleeve shirt, long pants and hat for sun protection are a great idea as well. I know it’s not sun protection, but don’t forget insect repellant as well.
• Insulation: When discussing insulation we’re mostly talking about clothing and sleeping gear. Separate your insulated gear into 4 categories: things you wear, pack, sleep system, and accessories. Items to Wear: 1 pair of socks, a short sleeve moisture-wicking short, long hiking pants (preferably synthetic), synthetic compression shorts or boxer briefs, and a hat (optional). Packed Clothing: Raincoat/rainpants, lightweight top/bottom, light jacket, long underwear or pajamas to sleep, and 1 extra pair of socks ( Smartwool or Darn Tough Socks ). Sleep System: Sleeping bag rated for the given temperature, sleeping pad to protect against the ground, and sleeping bag liner (optional). Accessories: gloves, rain mitts, winter hat, and jacket depending on weather.
• Illumination: Always carry a headlamp with extra batteries or a way to recharge it. Black Diamond’s Spot Headlamp is an affordable option with a long battery life. Don’t get confused by cheap headlamps ridiculous lumen ratings. First off the ratings are always exaggerated and even if they weren’t a high lumen headlamp will have a terrible battery life.
• First-Aid Supplies: Going into the wilderness without a First-Aid kit is a stupid idea. In 99% of cases you can get by without it, but you don’t want to be stuck without one when you really need it. Adventure Medicals .7oz kit is the perfect place to start. It includes everything you need to repair minor injuries in a lightweight kit. Throw in some anti-chafing cream ( desitin ), a pencil/paper, and a bottle of biodegradable soap( campsuds ).
• Fire: Always carry multiple ways to start a fire. I carry a handful of Bic Lighters and a box of waterproof lighters just in case. You may also want to carry a Fire Starting tool like the Light My Fire Ferro Rod just in case. It weighs a fraction of an oz and fits in my first-aid kit.
• Repair Kit Including a Knife or Multi-tool: I like to carry a small gear kit in my pack including a multi-tool, 10ft of duct tape, and tent repair kit ( this one ), and paracord. That’s all you to repair the vast majority of your gear. Duct tape can get you out of almost any situation.
• Extra Food: Think about how much food you typically eat in a day. Most people eat 1500-2000 calories per day and you need to triple that if you’ll be hiking all day. That’s a lot of food to pack. On a short 3 day weekend backpacking trip I recommend carrying 2.5lbs of food per day. You’re limited by pack weight on longer trips so you might need to drop down to 1.5-2 lbs of food depending on trip length and overall pack weight. Don’t forget to bring lightweight cooking supplies as well.
• Water: You can only haul in so much water in your pack. My 3 Liter Camelbak holds enough water for a 4-5 hour hike, but it isn’t close to enough for a multi-day trip. Plan your backpacking trip around backcountry water sources and make sure you bring a water filter. I have a Sawyer Mini Inline Filter on my hydration bladder tube and carry water purification tablets ( these ones ) and Wide Mouth Nalgene Water Bottle as a backup.
• Tent Or Shelter: You should always bring a tent or tarp, tent stakes, and guylines/cordage to tie it down.

I understand that the 10 essentials list is fairly basic and seems to ignore important items like cooking gear, sleeping bags, sleeping pads, insect repellenet, cell phones, emergency whistles, etc. All of those items are important, but they’re not necessary for survival. I’ll give you a better list of gear in the next section and then go over the 10 essentials in detail later on.

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The Best Weekend Getaways to Take Right Now

Here's where to spend a few blissful days for that well-deserved break.

Every item on this page was chosen by a Town & Country editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

Stowe, Vermont

Stowe may be a popular ski destination, but it's equally appealing in the fall with its abundance of outdoor pursuits. And, obviously, the foliage alone is reason enough to visit. The 68-room Topnotch Resort sits on an expansive 120 acres with views of Mount Mansfield. Hotel activities include horseback riding, ATV tours, biking, wagon rides, and, for something a little more relaxing, a lovely spa.

Martha's Vineyard, Massachusetts

Want to escape to a quaint New England seaside village? Look no further than Martha's Vineyard, with its miles of beaches and historic houses. Stay in Edgartown, a former whaling port, and you'll have access to shops, galleries, and restaurants galore. The Christopher is a chic boutique hotel with just 15 rooms that mix modern design with a classic New England aesthetic. For a seamless—and fast (read: no traffic)—trip from the New York area, book a flight on Tradewind Aviation.

Read Reviews The Christopher

Telluride, Colorado

It is a bit of a trek to get to this Colorado hideaway, but so worth it for its unlimited supply of fresh mountain air. The Madeline Hotel & Residences, an Auberge Resort , is surrounded on three sides by the majestic San Juan Mountains. Horseback ride through Colorado's backcountry, go fly fishing, cycle the mountains, or simply let the hotel set up a picnic feast for you in the middle of a scenic alpine meadow. However you choose to spend your days, you're guaranteed to return home refreshed.

Read Reviews Madeline Hotel & Residents, Auberge Resorts Collection

Washington, Connecticut

A quick two-hour drive from New York City, Washington, Connecticut has long been a retreat for a very discerning, moneyed crowd, because of its rolling hills, historic architecture, and proximity to the city. Soak that all in at the grand Mayflower Inn & Spa, an Auberge Resort , set on 58 acres of manicured gardens and woodland. There's plenty to do, including hiking, fly-fishing, archery, tennis, and croquet. In 2021, for its 100th anniversary, the hotel was refreshed by celebrated designer Celerie Kemble.

Read Reviews Mayflower Inn & Spa, Auberge Resorts Collection

Whitefish, Montana

For a more adventurous weekend getaway, the mountain town of Whitefish, Montana offers four seasons of activities—from skiing Whitefish Mountain to hiking through Glacier National Park. Book a stay at the Lodge at Whitefish Lake , a classic mountain lodge that offers suites in the main building as well as standalone luxury homes on the property.

Read Reviews Lodge at Whitefish Lake

Malibu, California

This 27-mile stretch of sparkling ocean and beach is the epitome of barefoot luxury, which is why so many Hollywood A-listers own homes here. Hotels are pretty scarce, all the more lending to Malibu's locals-only vibe. Stay at the 47-room Malibu Beach Inn , located right on the water on a strip of coastline nicknamed Billionaire's Beach for all of its famous homeowners, like Larry Ellison, who owns 10 properties. For a real splurge, book a room at the intimate 16-room Nobu Ryokan , an oasis like no other that marries serene Japanese minimalism with the iconic California coast.

Read Reviews Malibu Beach Inn

Read Reviews Nobu Ryokan Malibu

Annapolis, Maryland

Just 45 minutes outside of Washington, D.C., Annapolis feels a world apart. Yes, it's home to the United States Naval Academy, but it's far more than a college town. Embrace its nautical legacy with a visit to the Annapolis Maritime Museum, followed by an afternoon out on the water. And then enjoy Maryland's famous crabs for dinner before retiring to 134 Prince , a luxury inn in a Dutch Colonial home.

Read Reviews 134 Prince

The Berkshires, Massachusetts

Massachusetts' Berkshires are a year-round destination full of scenic hikes, stellar art museums, like MASS MoCA and the Clark Art Institute, and fun seasonal programming, like the region's famous Tanglewood concert series. It's also a hotbed for wellness resorts, including Canyon Ranch Lenox , which is centered around a Gilded Age mansion, and Miraval Berkshires Resort & Spa , which is home to a 29,000-square-foot spa.

Read Review s Canyon Ranch Lenox

Read Reviews Miraval Berkshires Resort & Spa

For East Coasters, Bermuda makes for a perfect weekend getaway. It's just a two-hour flight from NYC and Washington, D.C., meaning it basically takes less time to get there than it does to drive out to the Hamptons. Once you're on the island, head to The Loren at Pink Beach if you're in the mood for a little solitude. The property's one- and three-bedroom villas have their own private pools, making them prime spots for lounging and sipping on Bermuda's famed rum swizzles.

Read Reviews The Loren at Pink Beach

Bar Harbor, Maine

A gateway to Acadia National Park, Bar Harbor is everything you'd want from a coastal New England town, from stellar seafood restaurants to a bustling harbor from which you can easily hop on a boat for the day. The Primrose is a cottage-style inn built in 1878, but completely refreshed with new decor in 2020.

Read Reviews The Primrose

The North Fork, New York

The South Fork of Long Island (aka the Hamptons and Montauk) may be buzzier, but for a more low-key, quiet, and down-to-earth alternative, head to the North Fork. Oysters at Little Creek Oyster Farm in Greenport are a must, as are the homemade pies at Briermere Farms in Riverhead. Then spend your afternoons visiting the area's many wineries, such as Bedell, Sparkling Pointe, and Kontokosta before retiring to the Sound View Greenport , a chic hotel where every room looks out onto the Long Island Sound and has direct access to the private beach.

Read Reviews Sound View Greenport

Asheville, North Carolina

Drive the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway on your way to Asheville—the fall foliage is particularly spectacular, though the views are majestic no matter the season. There, you'll want to spend plenty of time at the impressive Biltmore Estate, the largest private home in the country, built by George Vanderbilt at the end of the 19th century. While you can't stay in the home itself, you can stay on the property at the Inn on Biltmore Estate , which grants you access to the Biltmore gardens, Antler Hill Village, and the Biltmore Winery.

Read Reviews Inn on Biltmore Estate

Asbury Park, New Jersey

When the Asbury Hotel opened in 2016, it promised to bring about a much classier era to the oft-maligned Jersey Shore—and, in particular, the city of Asbury Park. It's just an hour away from New York City, but will feel like a proper vacation. Aside from the beach, which is a block away, the Asbury has plenty of al fresco spaces fit for play, including an expansive rooftop space that screens outdoor movies.

Read Reviews The Asbury Hotel

Texas Hill Country

Easily accessible from both Austin and San Antonio, Texas Hill Country is filled with quaint towns, wineries, and, in the spring, fields of blossoming bluebonnets. Treat yourself to a wellness weekend at the Sage Hill Inn & Spa , a 16-room luxury property set on 88 acres just 25 miles outside of Austin. Spend your days meandering the hiking trails, getting a massage at the spa, or playing a game of pickleball on the courts.

Read Reviews Sage Hill Inn & Spa

Golden Isles, Georgia

Located along Georgia's Atlantic coast between Savannah and Jacksonville, Florida, Jekyll Island is one of the barrier islands comprising the Golden Isles. Here, you can summer like the Vanderbilts, Morgans, Pultizers, and Rockefellers once did at the Jekyll Island Club Resort . There are loads of leisure activities, 20-plus miles of paved bicycle exploration, and two open-air restaurants. It's easy to see why some of the great American dynasties returned here year after year.

Read Reviews Jekyll Island Club Resor t

The Finger Lakes, New York

The West Coast might get the lion's share of attention when it comes to wine regions, but the Finger Lakes is perfect for a weekend away for East Coasters or Midwesterners. Explore the eleven lakes, the charming towns that surround them, and the scenic gorges. Make your home base Aurora on Cayuga Lake. It's home to the Inns of Aurora , a collection of five boutique hotels in historic buildings.

Read Reviews Inns of Aurora

Mackinac Island, Michigan

Retreat to Michigan's Mackinac Island for a leisurely weekend in what might feel like a bygone era. The island, located in between the state's Lower and Upper Peninsulas on Lake Huran, has banned cars, resulting in quite a peaceful atmosphere. Stay at the historic Grand Hotel , which bills its 660-foot-long porch as the world's longest.

Read Reviews Grand Hotel

Sedona, Arizona

Sedona has the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation—the hiking is superb, as are the spa resorts. The 70-acre Enchantment Resort has the best of both worlds, with 50 hiking trails and an extraordinary destination spa called Mii Amo. (As of September 2022, the spa is closed for renovations, but will reopen in late 2022 or early 2023.) The property is also close to downtown Sedona, where you can get your fill of shopping between art galleries and funky boutiques.

Read Reviews Enchantment Resort

Lexington, Kentucky

Kentucky has two major claims to fame: horse racing and bourbon. You'll find both in and around Lexington, between the city's famous Keeneland Race Course and the 15 distilleries within 45 miles of the city. While in town, stay at the ultra-modern 21c Museum Hotel Lexington , which also functions as a museum.

Read Reviews 21c Museum Hotel Lexington

Cape May, New Jersey

Cape May is perhaps the most charming of all of New Jersey's beach towns, thanks to the colorful Victorian-era houses that line its streets. Spend the day at the beach or peruse the shops of the Washington Street pedestrian mall, which is particularly festive in December. Congress Hall is the grande dame in this seaside resort town, and it's been hosting guests since 1816.

Read Reviews Congress Hall

Leena Kim is an editor at Town & Country , where she covers travel, jewelry, education, weddings, and culture.

Stefanie Waldek is a Brooklyn-based writer covering architecture, design, and travel. She's worked on staff at Architectural Digest, ARTnews, and Oyster.com, a TripAdvisor company, and has contributed to Condé Nast Traveler, The Washington Post, Design Milk, and Hunker, among others. When she's not dreaming about midcentury chairs, you can find her re-watching The X-Files,  likely in an airport lounge or on a plane.

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14 Ideal Destinations For A 3-Day Weekend From The US

Got a long weekend coming up? Consider these long weekend destinations from the US, from Panama and Puerto Rico to Iceland and more!

Read update

Discover Even More Incredible Destinations For a 3-Day Weekend Vacation From America

• Experience the natural wonders of Iceland on a three-day trip or discover the stunning Pitons of Saint Lucia over one long weekend.
• Consider less-popular European countries like Belgium or smaller Caribbean islands like Grenada for a 3-day getaway from the US.
• Visit diverse destinations like Mexico, Puerto Rico, or Costa Rica for sandy beaches, unique attractions, and delicious food.

For those who reside in the United States of America and have a long three-day weekend ahead of them, traveling is likely on the radar. While three days might seem too short, there are some nations that are ideal for a weekend with an extra-day getaway. For example, it's possible to see the essentials of Mykonos in a few days or enjoy a glimpse of the natural wonders in Iceland on a three-day itinerary .

With the world feeling more accessible each day, who else needs 3-day vacation ideas? Obvious choices like the Caribbean come to mind, but less obvious choices like smaller European nations shouldn't be overlooked. Sometimes, staying domestic even does the trick. Here are some top picks for a 3-day weekend getaway for those who live in the USA.

UPDATE: 2024/01/25 09:59 EST BY LAURALYN BROWN

An entire country in only 3 days? Challenge accepted! This list has been expanded with 2 more stunning places to vacation for a 3-day weekend. This list is also complete with the best cities to visit, hotels to stay in, and activities to enjoy.

14 Cheap Places To Travel In The U.S. All Year Round

See the majority of the hot spots in ireland over one weekend.

3 days of castles, pints of Guinness, and the most stunning seaside cliffs in the world? Yes, please! 3 days in Ireland is plenty of time to wander around this beautiful island and experience the friendly culture, rich food, and breathtaking scenery.

It's best to start an Irish adventure in Dublin, the capital city, and hit major stops like Dublin Castle , the Temple Bar District, and the Guinness Storehouse. From there, visitors can easily make day trips out to the Cliffs of Moher, Galway, Cork, or Dingle. First-time visitors should be sure to grab one of the many unique souvenirs in Dublin before leaving!

• Suggested Locations: Dublin, Cork, Galway, Killarney
• Where To Stay: Hotel St. George Dublin
• Best Things To Do: Trinity College, Cliffs of Moher, Blarney Castle, Guinness Storehouse

Thanks to its small size, travelers can easily visit major Belgian cities in three days

Anyone looking for 3-day vacation ideas from the USA will definitely find fun in Belgium. A weekend spent in Belgium is filled with plenty of chocolate, beer, and the most incredible feats of architecture in the world!

Like Ireland, travelers should start their whirlwind weekend in the capital city of Brussels. The city can easily be experienced in one day as most of the major attractions are close to each other. From there, visitors can make a quick drive to Bruges, Ghent, Antwerp, or Waterloo, which is only 30 minutes away.

Luckily, Belgium is a small country which makes it easier to travel to major cities and hidden gem towns in only 3 days.

• Suggested Locations: Brussels, Ghent, Bruges, Liège
• Where To Stay: Hygge Hotel Brussels
• Things To Do: Grand Place, Antwerp Central Train Station, Waterloo Battlefield , Royal Gallery of Saint Hubert

Visitors will have the best 3-day vacation surrounded by sandy beaches, unique attractions, and street tacos

Spending three days in Mexico is absolutely worth it, offering a taste of the country's diverse attractions. Begin with the beautiful beaches of Cancún, Playa del Carmen, or Puerto Vallarta, where travelers can soak up the sun, snorkel in crystal-clear waters, or simply relax.

For culture and history, explore the charming towns of Tulum or Mérida, known for their ancient ruins and vibrant markets. Savor authentic Mexican cuisine, from street tacos to fine dining. While three days won't cover all of Mexico's wonders, it's enough to experience its rich culture, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality.

• Suggested Locations: Ciudad de México, Tulum, Cancun, Merida, Oaxaca
• Where To Stay: Villa Del Palmar Beach Resort & Spa
• Things To Do: Tulum , Chichén Itzá , The Arch of Cabo San Lucas, Two Eyes Cenote

11 Puerto Rico

Puerto rico is the perfect place for beaches, historic sites, and mouthwatering food.

Looking for 3-day weekend trips from the US without actually leaving the US (technically)? Puerto Rico is an ideal destination for travelers who are American citizens, as it's still part of the United States as an unincorporated territory, making it very convenient to visit for those seeking weekend vacation ideas from America.

Indeed, there are many things to do in the oldest European settlement in America , but three days offer this Caribbean gem's compact yet enriching taste. Visitors can start in San Juan, where historic Old San Juan's colorful streets and historic forts will transport tourists back in time.

Then, visitors can venture to the lush El Yunque National Forest, a tropical paradise for hiking and waterfall exploration. Tourists can take advantage of stunning beaches like Flamenco Beach on Culebra Island. On top of that, three days is enough to sample Puerto Rico's delectable cuisine, including mofongo and fresh seafood.

• Suggested Locations: San Juan, Ponce, Bayamon, Caguas
• Where To Stay: Rincon Beach Resort
• Things To Do: Cueva Ventana , El Yunque National Forest , eat at La Estación

10 Costa Rica

Spend a weekend vacation in costa rica surrounded by wildlife and nature.

Costa Rica is another one of the easy countries to visit in three days from the US, as it offers a whirlwind adventure through its rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes. While three days won't allow tourists to see it all, they'll experience Costa Rica's natural beauty, abundant wildlife, and a taste of Pura Vida, the country's laid-back way of life. An excellent way to be immersed in the country's nature is by staying in one of Costa Rica's rainforest resorts .

Travelers can start in San José, exploring local markets and visiting the impressive National Theater. Then, head to Arenal to witness the active volcano, soak in hot springs, and hike amidst lush rainforests. Wrap up the trip with a visit to Manuel Antonio National Park, home to white-faced capuchin monkeys and pristine beaches.

• Suggested Location: San Jose, Tamarindo, Puntarenas, Liberia
• Where To Stay: Pacuare Lodge
• Things To Do: Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Preserve , Manuel Antonio Beach, La Paz Waterfall Gardens Nature Park

It may be impossible to see all of Canada in three days, but a city or two is easily doable

Spending three days in Canada offers a glimpse into its diverse culture and natural beauty, and it is easy to plan due to its proximity to the United States. Travelers can consider Toronto, where they can explore the iconic CN Tower, visit vibrant neighborhoods like Kensington Market, and savor international cuisine.

Montreal is another city with much to offer, known for its European charm, historic Old Montreal, and dynamic arts scene. Quebec City also offers memorable days, with its charming cobblestone streets and French-inspired culture.

• Suggested Locations: Toronto, Quebec, Montreal, Vancouver, Banff
• Where To Stay: Fairmont Banff Springs in Banff
• Things To Do: Fairmont Le Château Frontenac, Jasper National Park , Lake Louise

Skip the touristy, crowded Caribbean islands and visit this underrated island instead

For those wanting to get away to a less-visited Caribbean tropical island, Grenada is a prime option for a quick 3-day weekend. Grenada is underrated, but with direct flights from New York, Miami, and Charlotte, it's an easy jaunt down to paradise. For a true cultural celebration, head down anytime between the 17th and 19th of May, 2024, for the annual Chocolate Festival , where the island showcases the chocolates grown locally.

Grenada is more than a Caribbean spicy island , offering a rich cultural connection to its cuisine, from chocolate to spices. With only three days, make sure to include enough time to snorkel or dive near the Grenada Underwater Sculpture Park, as well as explore some of the island's many famous waterfalls.

• Suggested Locations: St. George's, Gouyave, Victoria
• Where To Stay: Mount Cinnamon Resort
• Things To Do: Annandale Waterfall & Forest Park , Grenada Underwater Sculpture Park , Morne Rouge

10 Beautiful Caribbean Islands For Retirement

The land of ice and fire's natural wonders and northern lights are perfect for a 3-day weekend.

While this might be tough for a three-day weekend from the West Coast, getting to Iceland from the USA's East Coast is an easy feat. With only a four-hour flight from New York and several airlines offering direct flights to Reykjavík from major US cities, a three-day venture to Iceland is not as unimaginable to pull off as one might think.

Iceland is fairly small, but three days still won't be enough to see all that this stunning island has to offer, like all the natural wonders in Iceland , but it's enough time to get a taste. Those who travel from October to March might even see the northern lights in Iceland .

• Suggested Locations: Reykjavík, Húsafell, Akureyri, Husavik
• Where To Stay: Hotel Ranga
• Things To Do: Blue Lagoon, Thingvellir National Park , Sky Lagoon, Svartifoss Waterfall

Panama is easy to get to from the US and offers delicious food, historic sites, beaches, and the Panama Canal

With Copa Airlines having connections in several US cities , a quick 3-day escape down to Panama is hardly a hurdle. Panama has a lot to offer, but for the best trip possible, situate a stay in Panama City and book day trips from there.

Panama City, particularly the neighborhood of Casco Viejo, is full of history, colorful buildings, delicious food, and, of course, the notorious Panama Canal.

• Suggested Locations: Bocas del Toro, Portobelo, Panama City
• Where To Stay: The Santa Maria, A Luxury Collection Hotel & Golf Resort
• Things To Do: Panama Canal, San Blas Islands, Metropolitan Natural Park

5 The Netherlands

The netherlands is only a 7-hour flight from new york.

Does it seem borderline insane to head all the way to Europe for a three-day getaway from the USA? Perhaps so, but if there is one place to explore in just 72 hours, it's got to be The Netherlands. Fly direct to Amsterdam with KLM Airlines, and explore the flowers and canals of this European favorite.

Luckily, The Netherlands is one of the smallest countries in Europe, so though three days can be a little hectic, primarily due to air travel, it is ample time to explore this eclectic European nation.

• Suggested Locations: Rotterdam, Amsterdam, The Hague, Lisse, Giethoorn
• Where To Stay: InterContinental Amstel Amsterdam
• Things To Do: Van Gogh Museum , Unesco Werelderfgoed Kinderdijk , Keukenhof

4 Antigua & Barbuda

Leave reality for a weekend and enjoy the energetic atmosphere of antigua and barbuda.

For travelers where heading down to the Caribbean is the only admirable option, Antigua and Barbuda is one of the best nations to head to. Why? Well, they are notorious for having 365 beaches, meaning one beach a day per year!

Antigua and Barbuda is increasing in popularity but is still nowhere near the ranks of popular Caribbean destinations for Americans, such as the Dominican Republic, The Bahamas, or Jamaica. With so many unique things to do in Antigua and Barbuda , travelers can head down for a peaceful, pristine, and paradisiacal getaway, leaving all of their worries back in the USA while sipping rum, the national drink of the country.

• Suggested Locations: English Harbour, Jolly Harbour, Liberta
• Where To Stay: COCOS Hotel
• Things To Do: Shirley Heights Lookout, Dickenson Bay Beach, Stingray City Antigua

3 Guatemala

3 days is more than enough time to experience the beauty of lake atitlán.

Guatemala was one of the destinations that went viral in 2022 after visitor numbers jumped tenfold. So, for those who haven't caught onto this popular destination yet, what's the hold-up? Guatemala is a tiny nation in Latin America, and though it can easily be explored in two weeks or more, three days to the magical Lake Atitlán is the epitome of utopia.

Stay at the heavenly Casa Palopó , situated right on Lake Atitlán, and kick it back for a few days in this popular Central American nation.

• Suggested Locations: Guatemala City, Livingston, Chichicastenango, Quetzaltenango
• Where To Stay: Casa Palopó
• Things To Do: Tikal National Park , Santa Catalina Arch, Hill of the Cross, Lake Atitlan

12 Surprisingly Cheap Places To Travel In The U.S. All Year Round

2 saint lucia, discover the pitons, soufriere's drive-in volcano, and serene spas in just three days.

Fewer places in the Caribbean are as aspirational as Saint Lucia, which is home to many stunning destinations . Notoriously, one of the most beautiful islands in the Caribbean, Saint Lucia is known for The Pitons or volcanic plugs. The Pitons of Saint Lucia are a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and anyone who travels here will quickly understand why they have such notoriety (they're the standout feature of the country, as are its breathtaking beaches).

Moreover, Saint Lucia makes for an easy three-day getaway from the USA. Enjoy snorkeling, spa treatments at the many resorts on the island, paddleboarding, and exploring Soufriere’s drive-in volcano in just three short days. Three days might be enough to explore Saint Lucia, but don't be surprised when it still somehow feels impossible to leave due to how relaxing and divine this island nation is.

• Suggested Locations: Marigot Bay, Vieux Fort, Castries
• Where To Stay: Windjammer Landing Villa Beach Resort
• Things To Do: Soufrière Drive-In Volcano, Tet Paul Nature Trail , Diamond Falls Botanical Gardens & Mineral Baths

1 Trinidad & Tobago

Only a 3-hour flight from miami, these islands offer laid-back charm and bustling cities combined.

Finally, one of the most overlooked Caribbean islands is a land of delicious food, a vibrant culture, one of the best carnivals in the entire region, and two islands waiting to be explored. Trinidad and Tobago is easy to jaunt to from mainland USA thanks to Caribbean Airlines and is a perfect destination to explore in just three short days.

Tobago is where folks should head for a laid-back, typical "island" vibe, and Trinidad deserves to be explored by those who want the hustle and bustle of a busy city. Why not make time for both Trinidad and Tobago Islands , as there is a lot to discover? Just make sure to eat as much as possible when visiting since this fun nation is known to have some of the best cuisines in the Caribbean.

• Suggested Locations: Scarborough, Pigeon Point, Port of Spain
• Where To Stay: Hyatt Regency Trinidad
• Things To Do: Fort King George , Argyle Falls, Pigeon Point Beach, Store Bay

• Packing Lists

Weekend Trip Packing List: What to Bring for a 3-Day Getaway

Published September 16, 2023

Written by:

Fred Perrotta

Co-founder, tortuga.

Fred Perrotta is the co-founder and CEO of Tortuga. His first backpacking trip to Europe inspired him to start the...

Jeremy Michael Cohen

Jeremy Michael Cohen is a co-founder of Tortuga. He also works as a screenwriter and director. Aside from travel and...

The Tortuga Promise

At Tortuga, our mission is to make travel easier. Our advice and recommendations are based on years of travel experience. We only recommend products that we use on our own travels.

Table of Contents

Weekend trips seem like they should be the easiest ones to pack for. But they always end up being the hardest.

Weekends should be simple. The trip is short, the weather won’t vary much, and you probably know what you’ll be doing.

But packing light for a weekend trip can pose a challenge. We all tend to pack as much as we can fit, not just what we need. Whether you’re traveling for a weekend or a month, you’ll probably fill your backpack or suitcase. When you have the space, you start adding stuff you’ll never need, like an extra pair of shoes or a just-in-case outfit.

Your stuff will expand to fill your bag.

To combat this tendency, stick to a short weekend trip packing list and pack a small bag.

3-Day Weekend Packing List

Let’s start off with a quick checklist for a three-day, two-night weekend trip. The packing list below assumes that you leave on Friday, stay Friday and Saturday nights, then return home on Sunday.

For clothing, we’ve included your travel day (or in-flight) clothing in the packing list.

• 1 pair of shoes
• 3 sets of underwear
• 3 pairs of socks (1-2 pairs if wearing merino wool socks )
• 1 set of pajamas
• Toiletry bag
• Water bottle
• Phone, charger , and earbuds or headphones
• Book or Kindle

Consider at least one “nice” outfit depending on your plans. Dressing up—especially if you don’t have to—can make a nice dinner feel like a special occasion when you’re traveling.

Optional Add-Ons

• Eye mask and ear plugs
• Hat, scarf, and/or gloves for winter trips

Bring everything you need without checking a bag.

• Carry-On-Sized
• Easy to pack
• Comfortable to carry
• Built to last

Travel Day Outfit

The outfit you wear to travel should be the bulkiest outfit of the trip, especially if you’re flying. Wear your biggest, heaviest clothes—jeans, sweater, boots, jacket—so that you can save space in your bag. If you’re too warm, you can always remove a layer after takeoff and store it in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you.

If you’re flying, your travel outfit should include a  light jacket with zippered pockets. The pockets will provide extra space for packing things like your wallet, phone, chapstick, boarding pass, and other travel day essentials . The zippers will keep your stuff secured when you go through airport security.

Shoes are always a challenge when packing. It’s easy to convince yourself that you need a second pair, even for a three-day trip. Resist this temptation. Instead, pack one pair of shoes  you can wear all weekend. Your shoes must be comfortable enough for walking all day but nice enough to wear out to dinner.

In the winter, choose warm, comfortable boots. Sandals or sneakers work well in nicer weather. You can always add flip flops for the beach or pool if needed. Most will fit in your backpack’s water bottle pocket.

Electronics

Be careful not to overpack electronics. For such a short trip, you can leave your work computer at home. Since you’ll either be driving or taking a short flight, skip the tablet too. Your flight might be too short to watch a movie anyway.

A Kindle is my favorite in-flight entertainment for short trips. You’ll also have your phone and earbuds if you prefer to listen to music or a podcast.

When it comes to toiletries, take only the essentials. If you can live without it or survive with a different brand for a day or two, leave it at home.

Choose a hotel or an Airbnb that provides basics so that you don’t have to bring soap or shampoo.

• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Contact solution, if needed
• Basic makeup, if needed
• Soap, shampoo, and conditioner (only if not provided by your accommodation)

Consider if you can pool resources and share the packing burden with your travel companions. Do you each need to bring your own bottle of sunscreen or can one person bring a bottle for everyone to share?

If you forget anything, just grab a cheap option at your destination. You can bring home any leftovers so that you aren’t being wasteful.

Long Weekend Packing List

If you’re staying over Sunday night and heading home on Monday, use this list instead.

• 4 sets of underwear
• 4 pairs of socks (2 pairs if wearing merino wool socks )
• Phone, charger, and earbuds or headphones

Wedding Weekend Packing List

Weddings may require packing a bit more.

You’ll need an extra pair of shoes and one or two extra outfits so that you’re always dressed appropriately. In addition to dress clothes for the wedding, consider what you’ll need for the rehearsal dinner or Sunday morning activities if either will be part of the festivities.

• 2 pairs of shoes (1 pair for the wedding, 1 pair for everything else)
• 5 outfits (1 casual outfit for each day plus the wedding and rehearsal dinner)
• 4 pairs of socks (3 casual, 1 dress)

Best Weekend Backpack

We recommend packing a bag that’s made for travel—not just the old duffel at the back of your closet—especially if you’re flying. You’ll need a bag that’s optimized for packing , getting through security, and being accessible in-flight. Depending on how and what you’re packing, we recommend two options.

Why You Should Pack Last Minute

Packing last minute sounds sacrilegious, especially for Type A travelers. But hear me out.

You don’t need to bring much for a weekend getaway, so you won’t need much planning or packing time.

If you wait until the night before your trip to pack, you can be even more efficient. Check the weather last minute so that you know it won’t change (much). By then, you’ll also know your weekend plans and can pack and dress accordingly.

No need to worry about any “just in case” stuff.

Pack a small backpack and limit yourself to one outfit (or less) per day.

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Max Carry On Size

Fred Perrotta is the co-founder and CEO of Tortuga. His first backpacking trip to Europe inspired him to start the company. For over a decade, he’s traveled the world from his home base in the Bay Area while working remotely. When he’s on the road, Fred enjoys both walking and eating as much as possible.

Read more from Fred

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3-Day Backpacking Checklist (with Printable Packing List)

This complete backpacking checklist includes all the lightweight gear you’ll need when packing for an overnight trip in the backcountry.

Are you planning a backpacking trip and feeling overwhelmed with figuring out what gear and supplies you need to bring? Don’t worry, you’ve come to the right place.

In this post, we’ll share our ultimate 3-day backpacking checklist (tailored for women) to help ensure you have everything you need for a successful and enjoyable trip.

From essentials like shelter and a comfortable sleep system to practical clothing choices, we’ve thought of all the basic essentials you’ll need to be comfortable on a weekend-long backpacking trip – nothing more, nothing less.

While this is a comprehensive list, I encourage you to adjust your checklist based on your own needs. That being said, I also encourage you to try and stick to the essentials. You may be surprised at how little you need!

The Big Gear Items

These are the essential pieces of gear that should always be on your backpacking checklist for every single trip you plan.

Backpacking Pack

I’ve tried many backpacking backpacks, and funny enough, the least expensive one I’ve owned has also been my favorite.

At 4 lbs. 8.7 oz., the Deuter Aircontact Core 60 + 10 SL Women’s Pack isn’t super lightweight, but it still weighs nearly 2 pounds less than my old Gregory backpack and it seamlessly molds to my body.

Deuter’s Aircontact series packs can adjust for a variety of torso lengths and also comes in a  men’s model .

The 60 +10 SL pack is plenty big for a multi-day trip. In fact, this is the pack I took on my 22-day John Muir Trail hike, a 10-day backpacking trip in Alaska, and my Trans Catalina Trail backpacking trip .

For a shorter backpacking trip or if you’re splitting carrying gear with a partner, check out the smaller 45 + 10 SL version . This version is what BFT Director Linda uses on backpacking trips.

Shop Deuter Aircontact Core 60 at:

Backpacking Tent

Your tent choice can make the biggest difference in weight out of all the big gear items. However, the lighter your tent, the more money you’ll spend.

If you know you’ll be doing a lot of backpacking, I recommend investing in a good-quality, ultralight tent like the Zpacks Duplex . At just over 1 lb 5 oz, it’s one of the lightest tents on the market yet still roomy enough so you don’t feel like you’re sleeping on top of your partner.

It’s important to note that this Zpacks Duplex is a semi-freestanding tent. It does require two trekking poles (or the Duplex Flex Kit ) and guy lines (included) to set up.

Shop The Zpacks Duplex Tent at:

If you would like more room or backpack with a pooch, the Zpacks Triplex is just a half-ounce heavier and gives a bit extra space. My partner Ryan and I use the Triplex for backpacking trips which fits us and our 2 dogs, Charlie and Gumbo.

Read next: Interested in the Zpacks Duplex, but want to learn more? Head over to our detailed review to see if it’s the tent for you.

If $600+ is too much to spend on a tent (we don’t blame you!) or you want a freestanding tent, the REI Half Dome SL 2+ is a more budget-friendly option. It is a few pounds heavier at 3 lbs 15 oz, but still a great lightweight option.

Shop REI Half Dome SL 2+ at:

Sleeping Pad

I currently use the women’s Sea to Summit Comfort Light Sleeping Pad and love it. It’s lightweight, packs up small, and still manages to be warm and comfortable.

It’s also easy to inflate and comes with a pump integrated into the stuff sack, and it’s made out of durable ripstop nylon.

There’s a unisex version too in case you want something a little bigger.

Shop The Sea to Summit Comfort Light at:

Sleeping Bag

More and more backpackers are opting for quilts over sleeping bags because they are more lightweight and versatile yet still keep you nice and cozy at night.

The Enlightened Equipment Revelation Quilt is our pick for a backpacking quilt. It’s incredibly lightweight at 1 lb 3 oz (850-fill, 30-degree) and we also love that you can customize it to your needs and preferences.

When ordering, you can choose between 850 and 950 fill power, select a temperature rating between 0 to 50-degree, and even customize your quilt length.

The Revelation Quilt is truly a revelation and one piece of gear I don’t leave at home when I’m heading out on a multi-day trip.

If you’re backpacking with your partner and prefer to cuddle, check out our post on the best double sleeping bags for backpacking .

Shop The Enlightened Equipment Revelation Quilt at:

More Big Gear Items

Backpacking accessories.

There are tons of backpacking accessories you can choose to pack, but here we list the most important ones that will keep you safe and comfortable on the trail.

Trekking Poles

On those uphill climbs, trekking poles help take some of the weight off your hips and legs by utilizing your arm strength. On the downhill, they help ease the pressure on your knees. And on those stream crossings, these puppies have saved me more times than I can count by helping me balance.

The Black Diamond Distance Carbon Z Trekking Poles are Black Diamond’s lightest foldable poles made of carbon fiber and come in 4 sizes to meet your height.

Shop The Black Diamond Carbon Z Trekking Poles at:

The BioLite Headlamp 325 is my new go-to headlamp for backpacking. It’s ultralight, low profile, and very bright with four lighting modes including red light so you won’t blind your basecamp buddies or compromise your night vision.

I also love that it is battery-free and USB-chargeable (just be sure to fully charge it before you head out!).

Shop The BioLite 325 Headlamp at:

Emergency Communication Device

I like to carry a tracking device with me that I can use to send a help signal in case of an emergency. 

The Garmin inReach Mini 2 allows for two-way custom texting and also has GPS that you can use for navigating.

The Mini is much smaller and lighter than the regular Garmin inReach so I prefer it for hiking and backpacking when every ounce matters.

Shop the Garmin inReach Mini at:

First Aid Kit

You should always have a first aid kit when you are hiking in the backcountry. This ultralight, waterproof medical kit comes with the minimum supplies that you will need to address minor wounds, as well as travel-sized packs of some handy medications. I

In addition to what comes in this kit, you should supplement it with some extra blister band-aids and any medications that are specific to the hikers in your group .

Shop the Adventure Medical Kit at:

Read next: Prefer to put together your own medical kit? Read our guide on How to Build Your Own First Aid Kit .

Backpacking Chair

Packing a lightweight chair is definitely not essential for a backpacking trip, but it’s a nice-to-have item if you plan to spend a lot of time relaxing at camp. The Helinox Chair Zero packs down to roughly the size of 2 Nalgene water bottles and weighs only 1 pound, making it the perfect luxury item.

Shop the Helinox Chair Zero at:

Camping Accessories

Backpacking kitchen gear.

Next on our backpacking checklist is your camp kitchen gear. I tend to keep my cooking setup simple when backpacking. I mainly boil water for coffee or tea and oats in the morning and for backpacking meals in the evening.

Backpacking Stove & Fuel

The  Jetboil Flash Cooking System is the most efficient backpacking stove I’ve found, especially if you are only boiling water.

Together, the stove and pot only weigh 13.1 oz. For a 3-day trip, one 230-gram fuel canister ( sold separately ) should be enough if you are using your stove for coffee, breakfast, and dinner.

Shop the Jetboil Flash at:

Water Bottles or Hydration Reservoir

I like to pack a few of these lightweight Platypus Soft Bottles that can be rolled up when they are empty. Compared to a hard water bottle like a Nalgene, these are much lighter and take up less space when backpacking.

Depending on water availability, I’ll bring up to three of these on my backpacking trips.

I also tend to use these instead of a hydration pack since a reservoir can be a pain to pull out of my backpacking pack each time it needs to be refilled.

But if you like to backpack with a hydration reservoir for easy water access while you hike, the Osprey Hydraulics Reservoir is a great option.

Shop the Platypus Soft Water Bottles at:

Backpacking Water Filter

The Platypus GravityWorks Water Filter System is absolutely the easiest way to filter your water in the backcountry, in my opinion.

This system relies on gravity to push water through, eliminating the need to pump by hand or manually squeeze water through a filter – meaning you can save your energy for the hike.

At 11.5 ounces you will barely notice this thing in your bag, and what’s really cool is you can connect the hose directly to your water bottle or any standard hydration reservoir.

I’ll also mention that it’s always good to carry a backup in case your water filter fails. These Katadyn Micropur Purification Tablets are great because they are super small and you can just throw a few in your first aid kit.

Shop the Platypus GravityWorks Filter at:

Lightweight Camping Mug

You’ll need something for that morning coffee and evening tea. The GSI Outdoors Infinity Backpacker Mug is lightweight and will keep your beverage warm in the coldest of conditions with its insulated wrap and sip lid. It even has a lightweight fabric strap as a handle.

Shop the GSI Outdoors Camp Mug at:

Eating Utensil

A girl’s gotta eat! Ramen, backpacker meals, oatmeal. This TOAKS Long-Handled Spoon is the only utensil you need, and it weighs shockingly little at 0.65 ounces!

It also has a long handle and can easily reach the bottom of that Mountain House bag.

Shop the TOAKS Long-Handled Spoon at:

Some people like to carry a multi-tool, but personally, I’ve always been able to get by with a simple, small knife.

This Gerber Mini Paraframe Knife can cut paracord or be used to prepare food and only weighs 1.4 ounces.

Shop the Gerber Mini Knife at:

Bear Canister

You may or may not need a bear canister depending on where you are hiking. They are required by law in California’s Sierra Nevada Mountains, spots in Alaska, Washington, Idaho, Wyoming, and more.

In some places, they may be available for rent but be sure to check before heading out.

If you are on a short trip and only carrying food for yourself, the Bear Vault 450  is a good inexpensive option. Or for a duo or longer trips, go for the larger version .

Shop the Bear Vault 450 at:

Backpacking Kitchen

Backpacking toiletries.

My beauty routine while backpacking is pretty limited and is focused purely on hygiene. That is what I’ve reflected in this backpacking checklist. No deodorant, no makeup, no hairbrush, etc.

The mountains can suck the moisture right out of those beautiful lips leaving them cracked and dry. Plus, your lips are just as vulnerable to sunburn as your face, so SPF is key.

Sun Bum Mineral SPF 30 has natural, organic ingredients and will keep your lips hydrated and protected.

Shop the Sun Bum Lip Balm at:

At high elevations, you can burn way quicker than you think, and all those hours hiking in the sun add up.

This Sun Bum sunscreen comes in a small tube, is water-resistant , and provides SPF 50. 

Shop the Sun Bum Sunscreen at:

Toothpaste & Toothbrush

It’s all about those travel-size toiletries when backpacking. This Dr. Bronner’s Travel Toothpaste comes in a 1 oz size and is all-natural, fair trade certified, and the packaging is completely recyclable.

Shop the Dr. Bronner’s Toothpaste at:

Poop Kit – Trowel, Toilet Paper, & Ziploc Bag

In order to comply with the 7 Leave No Trace Principles , you need to dig a cathole that is at least 6-8 inches deep when you go #2.

You may think “I don’t need a shovel… I’ll just use a rock or stick.” I’ve made that mistake myself only to find that sometimes the dirt is so hard, you can’t dig a hole. And then panic ensues.

Make life easier for yourself by grabbing a BoglerCo Ultralight Trowel . It’s super lightweight and there’s really is no excuse to not bring it with you.

Also, when you go #2, you need to pack out your dirty toilet paper in order to maintain campsite and trail conditions for future campers.

There’s nothing grosser than finding a bunch of used dirty TP when you’re camping. I like to bring a Ziploc bag for my TP and then I store that in a small (not-see-through) stuff sack that I can rinse out later.

Shop Ultralight Trowel at:

While this might sound strange to you at first, bringing a pee rag on your backpacking trip, like this specially made, antimicrobial Kula Cloth , is super helpful.

Instead of having to wipe with TP each time and pack it into your zip lock bag, and instead of not wiping at all which can result in odors and discomfort, just wipe with this reusable cloth!

When going to the bathroom, I drip dry and then pat myself off with this in order to keep my lady parts clean.

Then, I use my water bottle to rinse off the towel 200 feet from any water sources (as recommended by Leave No Trace) and hang it from my pack to dry.

Shop the Kula Cloth at:

Quick Dry Towel

A lightweight quick-dry towel is always handy, whether it’s for drying your hands and face, doing dishes, or going for a swim and doing some sunbathing.

They come in a variety of sizes so you can pack what you need and nothing more.

Shop the REI Multi Towel at:

Hand Sanitizer

A travel-size hand sanitizer is a must before eating and after going to the bathroom while in the backcountry.

I prefer hand sanitizer to soap because it’s easier to follow Leave No Trace. If you do choose a biodegradable soap, like this one by Dr. Bronner’s , be sure to abide by Leave No Trace and rinse 200 feet away from water sources.

Shop Dr. Bronner’s Hand Sanitizer at:

For shorter trips, you might be able to get away without wet wipes, especially if you’re using the pee rag method and you want to save weight in your pack.

However, if you want a little refresh, these Sea to Summit Wilderness Wipes are soft and gentle on both your skin and the environment. They’re unscented (better for not attracting wildlife) and even come in an extra-large size in case you want to wipe your whole body down after a hot sweaty day on the trail. Be sure to pack them out in your ziplock trash baggie to dispose of them properly.

Shop Sea to Summit Wilderness Wipes at:

Backpacking Clothing

How much clothing should you bring on a 3-day backpacking trip? The absolute minimum you need to be comfortable.

You’ll appreciate it when you start to feel the weight of your pack after a couple of hours of hiking.

You really only need 1 hiking outfit and 1 set of dry, warm clothes to change into when you get to camp and for sleeping.

The only thing I bring extra of is underwear and socks and maybe an extra shirt I can swap out depending on how many days I’m backpacking.

Helpful Tip

Avoid cotton.

When backpacking, you want to avoid cotton because it retains moisture, takes a long time to dry, and tends to harbor smells. Instead, opt for quick-dry materials that wick sweat and resist odors.

Insulated Jacket

A lightweight, packable, insulated (down or synthetic) jacket is key for when the temps drop in the evenings.

I prefer something with a hood so I can keep my head warm when it’s windy or extra cold, so I pack my Arc’teryx Atom Hoody .

Shop the Arc’teryx Atom Hoodie at:

Rain Jacket

Always check the weather before you set out. Even if it’s looking like nothing but sun, I like to bring a lightweight rain jacket and the Arc’teryx Beta AR Rain Jacket is my top pick. It is definitely pricey (catch it on sale!) but once you invest in a piece like this, you’ll have it forever. It’s the rain jacket I wore on a backpacking trip in Alaska where it rained nearly every day.

For a more budget-friendly option, check out the REI Co-op Ranier Rain Jacket – it’s what Linda, BFT’s Director of Operations, currently uses and loves.

Also, if there is any chance of showers, I throw in a pair of rain pants too.

Shop the Arc’teryx Beta AR Rain Jacket at:

Base Layer Top

A warm, wool base layer is handy for changing into when you’re ready to get out of your sweaty hiking clothes and get warm at camp. It can be cozy to sleep in too.

I like the Icebreaker 200 Oasis Half Zip because it’s super soft and odor-resistant. I also opt for Icebreaker over other Merino wood brands because they have strong animal welfare standards.

Shop the Icebreaker 200 Oasis Top at:

Hiking Pants

I prefer to backpack in leggings (if it’s too cool for shorts that is). The REI Flash Hybrid Tights are a Bearfoot Theory team favorite because they’re designed specifically for hiking with thoughtful details such as snag-resistant fabric, a zippered pocket for keys, and a comfortable high-rise waist that won’t dig in or roll down while you’re hiking.

Shop the REI Co-op Flash Hybrid Tights at:

Moisture Wicking T-Shirt

I always hike in a non-cotton, quick-dry, moisture-wicking t-shirt, and most often it’s the Patagonia Cool Capilene T-Shirt .

As I get older, though, I’m preferring the long-sleeve version because it provides more protection from the sun. These shirts are lightweight, so even with the long sleeves, I stay nice and cool.

Shop Patagonia Capilene Tees at:

Hiking Shorts

I like to backpack in spandex shorts when the weather’s nice, but lately, I’ve been liking these REI Co-op Active Pursuits Shorts .

They’re comfortable and stretchy and offer a little more breathability than spandex.

Shop the REI Active Pursuit Shorts at:

Sports bras are my go-to even when I’m not hiking, and these days I’m personally loving the lululemon Run Times Bra .

It’s perfect for backpacking because it doesn’t shift around, my breasts are fully supported, and don’t bounce around AT ALL. I also love the thick straps becuase they don’t dig into my shoulders.

Shop the lululemon Run Times Bra at:

Quick Dry Undies

The lululemon InvisiWear Mid-Rise Boyshorts are lightweight and have a barely-there feel, making them great for backpacking.

I’ve tried two other cuts of these InvisiWear underwear, and the boyshorts stay in place the best out of all of them.

Shop the lululemon InvisiWear Boyshorts at:

Hiking Socks

I alternated between 2 pairs of Darn Tough Hiking Socks on my John Muir Trail hike. That was years ago, and I still wear these socks hiking.

They are extremely durable and stay put while you’re hiking so you don’t end up with nasty blisters. Plus, Darn Tough offers a lifetime warranty. Free socks for life!

Shop Darn Tough Socks at:

Hiking Boots

I’ve always been a big fan of Oboz and recently upgraded to a new pair of Bridger BDry Hiking Boots after wearing my last pair out through years of hiking and backpacking.

The mid-height helps support your ankles, plus they are waterproof and have a stiff sole, so you get plenty of support on those steeper, rockier slopes.

Shop the Oboz Bridger BDry Boots at:

Camp Sandals

It’s always nice to take those hiking boots off when you get to camp to let your feet breathe, and for that reason, a pair of camp sandals are a must on my backpacking checklist.

These Teva Universal Trail Sandals are lightweight (1 pound for the pair) and provide structure and grip for walking around camp.

They have padding around the ankle and anywhere there is a buckle to prevent rubbing, and they are one of the most comfortable pair of sandals I’ve ever owned.

Plus, they are made from recycled water bottles, so it’s a win-win! See my full review here .

Shop the Teva Universal Sandals at:

Even if you’ll be hiking in the woods or the forecast looks cloudy, you’ll want to bring a sun hat to protect your face, neck, and shoulders from harmful UV rays. Not only do hats ward off sunburns, but keeping your skin shaded can also help prevent dehydration and heatstroke.

The Wallaroo Sedona Hat has been my favorite for years. I love the wide brim, stylish look, and that it can pack down without losing its shape.

Shop the Wallaroo Sun Hat at: (Use the code BEARFOOT20 for 20% off)

Don’t forget your shades at home! You probably already own a pair of sunglasses, but if you’re in the market for some new backpacking sunglasses, Goodr makes fun, affordable options. We also love that they are a member of 1% For The Planet.

Shop Goodr Sunglasses at:

I also highly recommend packing a buff – a versatile piece that you can wear around your neck for sun protection, around your face and ears if it’s windy, and even as a headband soaked in water to help keep you cool.

Shop Buffs at:

If it’s going to be cold, you’ll also want to bring a pair of gloves. I like these lightweight Smartwool liners . They’re touchscreen compatible and not bulking, so they work well with trekking poles.

Shop the Smartwool Liner Gloves at:

It’s a good idea to pack a lightweight, quick-drying beanie to wear at night or if temps drop during the day. The REI Ribbed Beanie is a simple hat that does the trick.

Shop the REI Ribbed Beanie at:

Backpacking Clothes

Need help planning or preparing for your trip? Check out these helpful backpacking how-to guides:

• How to Train for Hiking & Backpacking
• How to Pack a Backpacking Pack for a Multi-Day Trip
• How to Plan a Backpacking Trip in 12 Simple Steps
• Backpacking for Beginners: Wilderness 101 Tips
• Beginner Backpacking Mistakes to Avoid
• Tips for Backpacking With a Dog

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What’s on your backpacking checklist that we missed? Is there anything you’d add or subtract? Do you have any questions about what to bring backpacking? Let us know in the comments below.

With two decades of hiking and seven years of van life under her belt, Kristen has dedicated her life to helping people experience the positive effects of nature. As a pioneer in the outdoor blogging space, she founded Bearfoot Theory in 2014 and has since authored more than 350 blog posts about outdoor travel, hiking, camping, and van life. Her work has been featured in National Geographic, Outside Magazine, and Backpacker, and when she’s not on the road, she lives in Park City, Utah with her partner Ryan, their son, and two adventure pups.

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59 Comments

Pretty nice list! I need to have a look at the Nemo sleeping pad, my Thermarest is annoying me so much recently.. Need something light and rectangular.

I’m totally with you re: trying to find a comfortable and convenient way to carry photography gear. Have you tried the Peak Design capture clip? I’ve used it for day hikes and have liked it so far but am not sure how it will work for weekend backpacking trips. Of course, even with the clip you’d need some decent bag for protection if you’re going through rough terrain or if the elements don’t cooperate. I like your approach with the sling though. 🙂

I have tried the Peak Design clip. They are pretty cool and I might be taking one with me on my upcoming trip to Nepal.

Check out Cotton Carrier’s Strapshot camera holster for your DSLR. It wraps around your backpack shoulder strap and provides a secure place to hang your camera with a 1/4 turn quick release and safety tether. I use it and have the full chest harness. (I’m not at all associated with them, just find their gear really convenient.) Thanks for the good read.

I also use the cotton carrier system – a disc screws into the tripod attachment of my camera (I pack in a Sony a6000 with an 18-200mm lens) and then there’s a holster that clips/velcros on to my backpack strap on my shoulder. You keep the strap around your neck for safety (more than twice I’ve been over, the camera unhooked from the carrier and I would have dropped it without the neck strap!) and then the camera is easily accessible when you want to shoot something. The downside is no protection from dust/moisture, so on dusty trails I’m brushing off the lens a lot. But it went with me to Everest Base Camp, Kilimanjaro and numerous 2-7 day backpacking trips with a large ziplock in my bag for water protection if needed. Love this setup.

I love my cotton carrier. I carry a full sized Nikon on it..have for 3 years… zero accidental disconnects… its tough for a piece of plastic too….

Great list Kristen, these checklists are so handy for people that are new to doing these kind of hikes. Have a great holidays! Stephen – Uncharted Backpacker

This is an awesome and very specific list! It’s very helpful you listed brands that you specifically like to use!

Just got the Montrail hiking boots. Loving it so far. Great list.

I THINK I obtained permits for Havasu Falls for this spring (I received confirmation emails, but still have a fear something may go wrong, but I’m hoping for the best). Starting to plan and struggle with what camera equipment to bring. I have a Nikon d7100 that I love, but would like to get by with just my 35 mm/1.8 lens. Think that’s wide enough to get good waterfall shots?

Hey Des, I’d highly recommend a wide angle lens. I brought a 16-35mm last time and it worked out perfectly. Have fun!

Amazing list! Seems to be the go-to stuff when comparing to other lists. That said, I\’d strongly suggest bringing a compass and map! On a longer trip would you change change the gear or simply bring a few more items of clothes?

Thanks Sean for the added recommendation of a compass and map! For a longer trip I would just recommend having at least one change of clothes in case of weather or for added layering. I backpacked the entire PCT for 5 months with only 2 shirts and 2 pairs of bottoms, so you definitely don’t need to expand on bringing more items necessarily.

A great list and this is going to be so useful to me. I go on treks very frequently and usually don’t get much time for backpacking. Thanks a lot for posting!

You literally just saved my life. Thank you for making this list!

Its always good to have a small extra knife just to be sure and ready for everything. A roadeavour knife wont add that much. only a size of a credit card. but very reliable.

Also a good thing to have is a collapsible water bottle like the one in roadeavour

n NZ if I went hiking with an umbrella, I would be laughed out of the hills. It would be really good to see exactly what you take in all the small bags, as this is wear weight accumulates and my pack gets heavy. Thanks for sharing.

Hey man, this is a very specific and a great list. Thanks for sharing with us such a awesome list.

Great list Kristen. Thanks for taking the time to put this stuff together. Your site is full of great info. I do the same stuff on a much less professional level on my youtube channel. Your site always has a few gems that even experienced hikers can find useful. Keep up the good work!

Thanks good stuff

Wow you hit the lottery? Most hikers couldn’t afford have your list. Anyone can go into a REI and buy the best available but a true backpacker can use whats handy and go on a trip. I am an assistant scout master for a Boy Scout troop and do trips including gas for a 3 hour trip, food for 12 and snacks for around 12 bucks each using basic gear for 3 days on the trail. Contact me and I can teach you how to hike on a tight budget.

I am so grateful to have stumble across your website. I am a beach bum. I have only done one day hikes. But, I have been invited to a three day hike in Korea. I will be doing the Jirisan Nature Reserve over three days. I have a bag and sleeping bag. That’s it. What elae do I need to prepare for this three day trek? It will be in September. Your help would be appreciated. I am an Expat teaching in Korea. I am exploring Korea through Hikes and wone tasting. I am open to suggestion.

Hi Gabriela, we are so glad you found us! Will you need a tent for your trek or will they be provided? We would recommend a sleeping pad as well. If you’d like to reach out and email us at [email protected] we can provide you with additional links to great articles and packing lists on our site to help you prepare for your trip. Sounds like an incredible adventure you have ahead of you!

Just what I was going to say. This is nice list of gear for anyone who has, say, a couple of thousand dollars to drop on a three-day (two-night?) backpacking trip.

What is your total weight of your pack?

Hi Rolando, that really depends on how long you are going to be backpacking. For a 3-day backpacking trip, we recommend trying to keep your pack weight as minimal as possible, depending on if you need to carry water or not. A good rule of thumb is not having your pack weight more than 20% of your body weight.

It is interesting that trekking poles can help manage the weight on your hips and legs by using your arms. My wife and I are going on our first backpacking trip in three months and we are trying to get everything together. We may consider going to a few camping stores near us to see what they recommend we bring too.

Hi James, So exciting to hear you and your wife are getting into backpacking! Trekking poles are a game-changer on the trail. We have a ton of comprehensive blog posts here about backpacking that you’ll probably find helpful. I suggest you start here: https://bearfoottheory.com/backpacking-101/ Let us know where you go and if you have any questions!

On my must pack list is a brightly colored bandana or two. So many uses; shade, neck warmer/cooler, dishrag, splint maker, wash rag, hunter safety gear (thus, brightly colored), and on and on. Thanks for great list, Kristen!

My thoughts, exactly…Black Diamond everything! If I’m going to spend $1000, might as well be in a hotel. There are countless other, just as good, options out there. Off-Brand does not always mean that you are compromising durability and/or performance. Do yourself a favor and think logically–don’t always believe sites like this. Some great info in here, I’ll agree, but focus on being “prepared,” and not showing off at the trailhead as you unload from your Volvo.

Ho! these are some really good checklist, thanks for sharing 🙂

Thank you. I will try everything on my first hike this fall.

Thanks for reading, happy hiking!

What are your thoughts on a woman hiking solo? Safe?

We thinking hiking solo as women can be done safely. In fact, it can be fun and empowering. Check out this blog post for more on this topic as well as safety tips for solo hiking: https://bearfoottheory.com/hiking-alone/

Thanks for this list, I’m planning out my first backpacking trip for myself and my husband and struggling to find a minimalist approach! I don’t want to pack everything and the kitchen sink but every blog seems to have twenty million things that are unnecessary. I’m looking forward to following your list! Any tips on seating? My husband is struggling with not being able to pack his giant camping chair.

Hi Claire – we know what you mean! Taking only what you need to be safe and comfortable will help you have a better experience. If you’re suffering under the weight of your pack it’s hard to have a good time. The Helinox Chair Zero in the blog post below is a good option. It’s super lightweight and packs down small making it great for backpacking. The REI Trail Chair in the same blog post is a good option as well if you don’t mind sitting on the ground. Another option is a lightweight, folding stool (just search “camp stool” online and you should be able to find a few options). Happy hiking!

https://bearfoottheory.com/best-camp-chairs/

Look up thermarest trekker chair. It converts/folds your sleeping pad into a sitting position.

That’s a great suggestion, thank you!

I will definitely keep this in mind in my next travels. thank you!

Thanks for reading!

What is your total weight including pack for 3 days? Also check out Lume deodorant on line. Some folks can go 72 hours with out stink. Safe for any body part. And no I don’t work for Lume, just having great results.

It varies depending on a few factors including the weather (how much warmth, rain gear, and shelter we have to pack for example) and whether a bear canister is needed which adds a little weight as well. I’d say our standard pack weight is anywhere from 15-30 lbs depending on how lightweight we’re going. And thanks for that deodorant recommendation!

Hi, thanks for taking the time to write these articles and share them, much appreciated. I have shared them on my own webpage/blog with my own followers as well – spreading the love.

Thanks Tania!

I was meant to find this post. I am a woman about to go on my first 3 day hiking/backpacking trip. I can’t tell you how helpful this info is. Thank you so much!

You’re welcome – happy trails!

The point is that if you’re looking to list existing products – it pays to ensure that you’re using the most effective techniques to instill trust, desire, and confidence in your buyers.

I love the mansplainers out there shaming her for touting nice gear. We all like to spend on different things. Some of us might go to REI to pick up a fun toy or two, and the rest of us probably have the brains to know how to substitute a cheaper item or repurpose something we have. First timers can also borrow gear from friends or neighbors before they commit to more frequent backpackers. It’s a great way to figure out what you like. This list was very helpful, Kim. Thanks.

Where’s your straw hat from though?? So cute!

It’s a Wallaroo Sedona Hat . My favorite wide-brimmed hat!

As others have said…THANK YOU. I have not backpacked in 8+ years and this was a great reminder and check list. I actually cannot believe some of the folks who harassed you about buying quality gear…guess their Momma never told them that “if you can’t say something nice, don’t say anything”…you would think they would have learned that on the trail. Their packs must get heavy carrying all that hate around…lose the weight! Franklly, I am always looking for ways to time weight and cost, but that is part of the fun and the process. Thanks again for a great list/refresher as I plan a 3 day in the Smokey’s!

So glad to hear you found this helpful! Enjoy your trip to the Smokey’s, and welcome back to backpacking! We actually have a fall travel guide for the park here in case you need help planning: https://bearfoottheory.com/smoky-mountains-fall-guide/

This is a very nice list, but if you put all these things together, the weight is not going to be ideal. The tent and sleeping bag is just about 6 lbs for start. All these are good products, but for the weight conscious, I would definitely be going for lighter items, if you don’t mind the weight, great list.

Hi Nikki, thanks for the input! These are the gear items we’ve personally carried when backpacking, even though they might not be the lightest on the market. For someone just starting out, buying gear can be really expensive so we’ve tried to strike a good balance between cost and weight in our recommendations. However, we’re working on an ultralight backpacking gear guide at the moment which will focus more on lightweight items.

Do you have an article on what you pack for food for a three day hike? I have always day hiked, and know my go to list for snacks, but haven’t ever done overnights, so not sure what to bring for calorie packed real meals. Thanks.

Hi Melanie, this blog post gives tips for what to pack for backpacking food, how much to bring, and our personal favorites: https://bearfoottheory.com/backpacking-food-ideas/

Thanks since I’ve become an old man I haven’t backpacked in a few years. So this was a good reminder. Appreciate you taking the time to post this. All the best for a safe and healthy season. Dave H Fort kent, Maine

The Perfect 3-Day Itinerary: Is it right for you?

Does this sound familiar? 

When you’re planning a trip…

You don’t know where to start or who to trust

You don’t want to spend your time doing research every night

But at the same time…

You want someone else to do the research, bookings, and itinerary-building but you don’t need anything custom curated

You are planning a private trip and want immediate and direct vetted recommendations

Then 3-day itineraries are the perfect solution. Our Bite-Size Trips capture the feeling of TTLT travel in a short timeframe. But more on that later…

The Travel Planning Dilemma

The challenges of travel planning are sometimes so overwhelming it stops people in their tracks. If you google what to do in Florence, you’re going to be bombarded with blogs, businesses, influencers, and brands shouting recommendations at you. Some of them might be good, some of them might be a tourist trap. How do you know if the recommendation you’re picking is actually a winner? What if you didn’t have to take that gamble with your trip?

What is a 3 - Day Itinerary?

This is the perfect solution for you! A 3-day itinerary is a curated plan for a short trip. Sometimes people incorporate them as a part of a longer trip or as their entire trip itself. It provides a detailed outline of activities, attractions, and experiences to make the most of the limited time available at the destination. 

These itineraries optimize the traveler's journey by including must-see sites, off-the-beaten-path gems, and leisure time for an unforgettable trip in a condensed timeframe that still captures the destination’s essence. 

3-day itineraries can be adapted for solo travelers, families, couples, or groups. They are also flexible in the timeframe that you want to travel. Just fill the three days you’re going to be in the city with this pre-planned itinerary and you’re good to go!

Advantages of a Pre-Planned 3-Day Itinerary

Time-saving: A 3-day itinerary saves you time before and during your trip. This style of itinerary eliminates the need for extensive research and planning. It comes with every single detail planned and accounted for. Then during your trip, each day-by-day itinerary is intentionally arranged in a way that maximizes your route through the city, giving you a stronger sense of the city’s culture and history while eliminating backtracking and randomly hopping around. 

Stress reduction: Having a structured plan reduces stress and uncertainty before and during the trip. Before the trip, you don’t have to worry about carefully vetting your own experiences and crossing your fingers you picked a winner. You can confidently go on your trip knowing you have expert recommendations. During the trip, there’s no stress in decision fatigue. Your dinner plans have already been made.

Local insights: 3-day itineraries mean access to insider tips and hidden gems from those who know the destination best. Don’t get caught in tourist traps. Instead, have a trip full of authentic and unique experiences. 

One size fits all: 3-day itineraries can accommodate solo travelers, families, couples, and groups.

Identify Your Travel Style and Preferences

An important aspect of deciding if a 3-day itinerary is the right fit for you is identifying your travel style and preference. 

If you’d rather have a longer itinerary that covers a number of cities and is tailor-made to your exact interests, then Travel Consulting is the better option for you. With tailor-made travel , you can work one on one with a travel expert to make a trip specifically for you.

If you want incredibly exclusive experiences and a completely effortless traveling experience, then a small group trip is the best fit for you. With a 24/7 tour host, you don’t have to think about a single detail including tips, directions, and everything else. All you have to do is soak up experiences that are only accessible through personal relationships and friendships that exist at TTLT.

It’s also important to note whether the itinerary is focused on exploring historical sites, indulging in culinary delights, or seeking outdoor adventures. Make sure the activities included line up with your personal interests and goals for your trip.

Quality 3-Day Itineraries

The Table Less Traveled has 3-Day itineraries to Florence, Tokyo, and Rome. Our Bite-Size Trip packages come with detailed day-to-day plans to maximize your time, 3-5 unique experiences booked on your behalf, insider tips to navigating social customs and expectations, and our top recommendations for restaurants, sites to see, and more.

Bite-Size Trips are different from other 3-day itineraries because of their meticulous attention to detail. We handpick destinations, activities, accommodations, and dining options to ensure a top-tier, immersive, and hassle-free experience. With over 10+ years of experience traveling to each of these destinations, working with a variety of partners, and having our fair share of good and bad tours and experiences, we are equipped to share the best of the best with you. 

3-day itineraries are the perfect solution if you want trusted recommendations, eliminate stress, and maximize your time. Bite-Size Trips take 3-Day Itineraries to the next level by making them incredibly authentic and effortless. 

Traveling in TTLT style has never been easier. Try a Bite-Size Trip for your next adventure! 

Travel with us around the world on one of our multi-day small group food tours . Check out our itineraries to Italy, Japan, Peru, and more! Join us as we visit tea farms in Japan, sip on limoncello in Italy, and savor ceviche in Peru.

If you’re traveling abroad and don’t know where to start or want to tap into our travel expertise to make the most of your trip, check out our Travel Consulting and Coaching and optional booking service.  

No matter where you travel, we always recommend purchasing travel protection to safeguard against sudden changes or cancellations. If you don’t already have a preferred vendor, you can check out ours - Travel Insured - which offers a “Cancel for Any Reason” policy. 

Written by Emme Parrish , Marketing and Social Media Manager

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Europe in 3 Weeks: 6 Itineraries

DISCLAIMER: This post might have links to travel services and products that we enjoy. We might make a commission from it at no extra cost to you.

I am confident many people have Europe on their bucket list of places to visit. This continent is filled with preserved historical sites, famous landmarks, UNESCO-certified heritage sites, various natural scenery, and diverse cultures from people of different nationalities.

There are tons of activities that you can do here as well. However, if you plan to stay a little longer than the usual vacation duration, it might cost you a lot, especially if you aren’t familiar with places to go without spending too much. 

This guide is for people planning to travel around Europe in 3 weeks . Whether you are on a budget or looking to splurge a little, there’s something for everyone. In this guide, I am covering central and southern Europe – both have famous destinations. I also have itineraries for the eastern region for affordable, nordic areas for unique culture, and off-the-beaten path of Europe.

I want to ensure you spend the 3-week holiday that suits you. If you are new to travelling on a budget, check out these tips for budget travel . You can also read in below our estimate of how much a 3-week in Europe trip might cost.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE GOING TO EUROPE

If you plan a trip for 3 weeks in Europe, stay with me as I lay down tips on travelling there on a budget. Decide where you want to go, when, how much you will spend, and what you plan to do once you go there. 

I created a detailed outline to help you plan your 3-week Europe trip or you can also consider a 3-week cruise around Europe.

Where to go in Europe for 3 weeks

If you want a hassle-free trip, y ou could visit countries that share land borders or are near each other. You can also limit your visit to 3 countries to spend at least a week in each. 

For example, France, Italy, and Spain are super popular and are easy to get from one to another. The same goes for Norway, Denmark, and Sweden. The Baltics (Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia) is another example of Hungary, Croatia, and Greece/

That way, you could experience what each country offers without rushing. You wouldn’t be overwhelmed by the new cultural experiences and frequent environmental changes.  You should check our compilation of 3-week travel itineraries for different (each) European countries .

When to go to Europe

This actually depends on what activities you want to do. For instance, summer would be perfect if you like swimming , various water activities, open-air concerts, and museums. If you’re going to try skiing, ice skating, sledging and see frozen waterfalls and snow in general, you should go during winter.

You can go hiking in spring and discover diverse flora and fauna along the way, as most flowers bloom during springtime. Europe also has various music and cooking festivals, while during fall, you can attend their world-famous festivals, enjoy the changing of the tree colours, and do lots of hiking and museum visits.

However, if you ask me, I like visiting Europe during late spring or late autumn, from March to April or September to October. These are shoulder seasons; the weather is neither too hot nor too cold, there are fewer tourists, and accommodation prices are a bit lower.

Check our list of best destinations to go for a beach trip and t op places to spend winter for 3 weeks .

You don’t have to write your itinerary from start to finish, day by day, but writing some sort of guideline will help you visualise your trip. You can check which destinations you can afford to book a private room and which places you have to book dorm rooms.

Y ou can join free walking tours in Europe, which are widespread . The great thing about this is that you only need to give a tip to the tour guide according to your satisfaction. You can also take local transportation such as trains, buses, or subways (they call them metro in Europe).

You can also check if you can rent bicycles. This means of transportation is enjoyable, and you would be able to appreciate the places you visit more when riding a bike.

Another way to save money when taking public transportation is by booking a shared ride (either from your hotel to the airport or the following city/country).

Pack lightweight

There are so many cheap flights across Europe, but the catch is that the baggage cost on flights often doubles the ticket costs.

That’s why you need only to bring the essentials and pack light. In this way, you also could move faster because you don’t need to rearranging your belongings or drag a heavy suitcase or backpack. 

We have an amazing packing list for general travel , which comes with a free printable checklist. You can also check our packing list for summer or the packing list for winter .

Basic travel tools and sites

When planning your trip, check different sites for the most affordable and budget-friendly travel services, such as flights, accommodations, and even travel insurance. If your trip is not final, look for sites that offer flexible cancellations if anything changes.

For those sure of their trip, booking your hotels and flights in advance is best to have more options, especially affordable ones.

These are the websites and tools I personally use when booking my trip. The ones I book right away are flights (for international/intercontinental), hotels (to find the best deals), and car rentals.

3 WEEKS IN EUROPE AVERAGE COST

On average, one person should plan around $2,000 for 20 days in Europe . You should be able to stay in a private room and eat out most of the time. But that still depends on where you plan to go.

If you’re on a backpacker’s budget, you should be able to do it for $1,500 . Plan to stay in dorm rooms and cook when you can.

If you want to splurge, $4,500 for 3 weeks in Europe is very comfortable. You can book five-star hotels, eat at fancier restaurants, and book private tours.

Pro tip: Don’t include your airfare when computing your budget because airfares change drastically . You can also try to book during non-peak seasons to save more or wait for promos.

When computing how much a 3-week Europe trip costs, you should consider food, accommodation, and tours. Last-minute bookings are the most expensive. Hence if possible, book as early as three months before your planned trip.

How much is it really to travel to Europe for 3 weeks? It depends on the person, of course. However, personally, I spent about $1,200 on one summer. I also visited during winter, where I paid $1,000 in 3 weeks, mostly because I decided to head to East Europe . I also backpacked around for three months and spent about $2000.

In my opinion, Europe is not that expensive compared to North America or even Oceania. But it would help if you had a good plan and were okay with not always eating in fancy places. The great thing about Europe is the hostel community, it’s affordable and a great way to socialise.

I mainly stayed in hostels around Europe, took public transportation, walked a lot, ate street food and went to local grocery stores. I also made sure to see as many places as possible and enjoy some “luxury” here and there.

You can also book this 7-day tour of central Europe , which covers Germany, Czechia, Slovakia, Hungary, Austria, and Switzerland. Transportation, accommodation, tour manager, and breakfast are all included.

PINNED MAP OF DIFFERENT ITINERARIES

Click the enlarge button on the top right corner. Credit: map data: Google

EUROPE IN 3 WEEKS ITINERARIES

I created a list of various destinations according to season and budget preference. I included itemised lists of how much a 3-week Europe trip costs so you could know what you could do with specific budget ranges. Please note that this budget is for one person only, and you can adjust the cost according to the number of people.

>> We also have an article on affordable destinations to spend your 3-week vacation

Most Affordable Winter Destination – Portugal, Spain, Italy

If you want to visit Europe during winter, consider visiting Portugal, Spain and Italy. These three are close to each other. They also have affordable accommodations and generally have fewer tourists during this season.

In Italy, you can enjoy the Colosseum without crowds , explore the mountains, and spend time in museums. You will also have the luxury of spending the entire 3 weeks in Italy , covering north to south. From mountains, vineyards, and historical places, to Mediterranean beaches. If you are foody, you definitely have to try these best Italian desserts .

On the other hand, Portugal doesn’t suffer from freezing temperatures even in the middle of the winter season, so you can still enjoy the sunlight and do various outdoor activities such as hiking. There are popular Instagrammable spots in Portugal that are worth a visit, and of course, wine and food.

You want to see Porto and Lisbon, especially if you want to hike the popular Santiago de Compostela route. Once you get to Porto, stay near a bus or metro stop, both budget-friendly ways to move around. If you don’t know where to stay in Porto, near the historic centre of Ribeira District, both offer affordable options.

Don’t forget Lagos; it offers such wonderful water activities. This is an incredible destination if you plan to visit during summer. Lagos is located in the Algarve region, a popular area for its coastal features. If the water is too cold during winter in the Algarve, there are other things you can do, such as hiking, visiting chapels, enjoy a road trip.

If you are heading to the capital, decide on the activities, from museums, beaches, hiking, and even night-out parties. Knowing what to pack for Lisbon will ensure you don’t waste your time and money. Check our itinerary for 3 weeks in Portugal .

Lastly, Spain holds some of the best festivals on the continent during this season . During winter, the best places to visit in Spain are Seville, Barcelona, Madrid, Granada, the Canary Islands, and Costa del Sol.

There are so many places to see in Madrid, and probably a good 5 days here is the perfect spot. At the same time, Barcelona for 2 days will allow you to cover too many attractions.

But please, do not miss the Canary Islands – like no other in Europe. We have 3 weeks in Spain. Below are the budget ranges you should allocate for food, guided tours and accommodation. You can also check out our 3 weeks in France, Italy, and Spain itinerary .

• food budget per day: $20
• guided tours cost per day: $15-$30
• accommodation cost per day: $25-$45 as a backpacker or $70+ for mid-range
• 3-week budget: $1,200-$1,800 (excluding flights to and back)

Mid-range – UK, France, Germany

If you want to spend more, visit the UK, France and Germany. These countries are rich in history and are close to each other, so much so that you can take trains to cross borders. They also have great wine and beers, so this option is perfect for wine and beer enthusiasts.

Check out our 3 weeks in Central Europe itinerary, which features Germany, Poland, Czechia, Switzerland, Austria, Slovakia, and Hungary. But if you prefer the West, we also have an itinerary for 3 weeks in Western Europe or a sole 3 weeks in Germany post.

If this is the region you want to visit, it’s best to come during the off-season, which is either from March to May or September to November. The prices are lower, and there are fewer crowds.

If you visit the UK, you can finally see Big Ben in London and London Bridge . You can spend your holiday in England, which hosts festive Christmas markets and drink hot chocolate while wandering about or seeing the world-famous Isle of Skye in Scotland. 

There are many ways to explore the UK. We have a guide for 3 weeks in England only, or you can also explore the entire country and do 3 weeks in the UK .

However, if you have been to the UK before, you probably want to visit Ireland this tim e. You can combine Scotland, Northern Ireland, and Ireland. Please look at our 3 weeks in the UK and Ireland itinerary .

In France, you can take a picture of the Eiffel Tower or visit the Louvre if you’re a museum enthusiast. You can also try out their seasonal cuisines and go on a shopping spree as they have a government-mandated citywide sale during this season, also known as “soldes”. And yes, we have an itinerary for 3 weeks in France .

In Germany, you can go to thermal bathhouses to experience their outdoor pools and saunas . You can also ride their historic cable car, Merkurbergbahn, to see the snow-covered pine trees. Here are the daily price ranges for food, accommodation and tours. 

• food budget per day: $25-$35
• guided tours cost per day: $30-$50
• accommodation cost per day: $35-$50 for backpackers or $80+ for mid-range
• 3-week budget: $1,900-$2,800 (excluding flights to and back)

Affordable Summer Destination – Italy, Croatia, Greece

For affordable summer destinations, Italy, Croatia, and Greece are must-visits. They are not necessarily next to each other or affordable. Italy is expensive, but Greece and Croatia are a bit more affordable so that balances it out.

Another thing is that flights between these three countries are affordable. Plus, it’s in Southern Europe ; there’s no better place for a beach vacation in this region.

These 3 destinations serve great food, wine, and beer and are rich in natural scenic spots like beaches and mountains. Personally, I would say this is the best way to explore Europe in 3 weeks on a budget.

Italy is known for their fantastic food. You can go on a gondola ride in Venice and have wine tastings in Sorrento, which sounds like a perfect summer getaway. Venice is not really a budget-friendly destination.

But, if you want to make this trip affordable, check out the coastal cities on the southeast side of Italy. Not only are they cheaper for vacation in this expensive country, but they are also less crowded.

Greece is a famous summer spot as well. You can visit Mycenae, an ageless arch made with monumental stones that was once a dwelling place of some of the most famous people in Grecian history, including Agamemnon, Electra, and Orestes. You can also have a road trip with your friends around Pelion or just chill and have a slow day in Hydra.

This country is an excellent choice if you want to experience the Mediterranean Sea but want to do Europe in 3 weeks on a budget. 3 weeks in Greece is a little more affordable than Spain, France, and Italy.

Croatia is now known for its location in Game of Thrones, but it has more to offer. You can go coral diving during the summer season. You can also avail yourself of a boat trip, hike, swim, cycle or sail; honestly, the sky’s the limit with the number of things you could do here.

It’s another more affordable destination but located ion on the Mediterranean Sea. You can check our 3 weeks in Croatia itinerary too.

• accommodation cost per day: $25-$35 or $50 and up for mid-range
• 3-week budget: $1,000-$1,800(excluding flights to and back)

Drinks and Beach – France, Poland, Greece

If you are the type of person who wants to lounge along the beach while drinking wine or beer, then this triad is perfect for you . Aside from that, these countries are rich in historical artefacts and landmarks, and flight tickets are cheap.

One of the most famous beaches in France is Plage de la Cote des Basques in Biarritz, which you’ve probably read about in Hemingway’s The Sun Also Rises . Another famous beach is the Deauville beach in Normandy, where Coco Chanel opened her first clothing store and held historical value .

Sopot is one of the most famous beaches in Poland , especially for the locals, because aside from chilling and sipping wine along the bay, you can also take boat rides, and there are spas and saunas nearby.

Swinoujscie Beach is famous for its water sports because of the constant wind and waves. It also has a windmill nearby which is considered its most famous landmark. Greece has the most beautiful beaches in Europe, so you won’t have difficulty looking for a great beach there. Some of the most beautiful beaches are Mykonos, Crete and Santorini.

• accommodation cost per day: $25-$50
• 3-week budget: $1,700-$2,800 (excluding flights to and back)

CHECK-OUT: Best itineraries for 3 weeks in East Europe

A bit of splurge – Iceland, Norway, Denmark

I know Scandinavia or the Nordic region doesn’t scream Europe in 3 weeks on a budget. But if you have a larger budget and want to splurge a little, Iceland, Norway, and Denmark are the perfect places to visit. The best way to make this plan affordable is to rent a car rather than relying on domestic flights, trains, or even buses.

Not super cheap, but it can be affordable if you plan and look for great deals. Remember these tips for visiting Iceland and travelling to Scandinavia for first-time travellers to this region.

You should look at flights and book accommodations 4-6 months in advance . Travelling in the northern hemisphere during the off-season, fall or winter, would be best.

Book hotels in advance to save money and also use local transportation. For instance, if you plan to go during the summer, flights are cheaper if you book them during the winter.

You can enjoy many free or affordable activities like hiking, sightseeing, or road-tripping. You can also enjoy their street foods at a lower price than at their restaurants.

If you are curious, some of the most famous places in Iceland include the Blue Lagoon in Grindavik, a geothermal spa and Strokkur Geysir, where spectacular geysers are found. You can also witness the northern lights if you’re lucky, as the time of their appearance is quite unpredictable.

Meanwhile, in Norway, you can visit the Lofoten Islands or the scenic city of Bergen, which form an archipelago and go to the Lofoten War Memorial Museum. Bygdoy Peninsula is also home to some of Oslo’s top tourist attractions.

In Denmark, you can visit the Tivoli Gardens found in Copenhagen and Nyhavn, the model of most postcards and can also be found in Copenhagen. Here, you will also see the statue of the Little Mermaid, yep, that story was written by the Danish writer, Hans Christian Andersen.

Do you know that you can spend 3 weeks in Scandinavia and cover Norway, Denmark, and Sweden on the same trip? We also have 3 weeks in Iceland itinerary if that’s something you have in mind and a Norway itinerary .

• food budget per day: $30-$50
• guided tours cost per day: $50-$70
• accommodation cost per day: $45-$60 for backpackers or $100+ for mid-range
• 3-week budget: $2,400-$3,500 (excluding flights to and back)

The Baltics – Lithuania, Latvia, Estonia

If I’m on a budget, these three countries are my favourite European destinations for Europe in 3 weeks . These places offer a calm and relaxing vibe, from beaches to hiking, to castles, without spending too much.

You can cross the borders via train or bus, saving you money instead of flying. I’m not going to lie. The Baltic beaches are not stunning, but they offer a tranquil scene and few tourists.

I recommend you enter either through Vilnius or Tallinn and make your way north or south. Don’t forget to try cider from this region. It’s one of the best in Europe. Few do this, but road-tripping through the Baltics is the best way to explore this area. It’s more affordable and gives you so much more freedom.

In Lithuania, make sure to visit Vilnius, Kaunas, and Klaipeda. These two cities offer different activities from one another. Vilnius for the cultural and historical experiences and the best nightlife in Lithuania. In comparison, Kaunas is known for its creative and street arts.

Even though it’s a small city, many things to do in Kaunas are related to art. Last but not least, Klaipeda for the beach and other water activities. Make sure to visit Trakai Castle and Uzupis.

From there, make your way to Riga, the coastal capital of Latvia. Enjoy museums, castles, fortresses, and the beach during summer. You can also visit Rezekne, where Raznas National Park is located. Here, you can enjoy hiking, fishing, and even canoeing.

And lastly, Tallinn. A vibrant and modern city, Estonia’s capital and known for being the leading digital powerhouse of the Baltics. Estonia is the pioneer of digital residencies and the first country to welcome digital nomads. Many museums show Estonia’s history and culture. Being on the coast, you can enjoy the beach during warm weather and other water activities.

• food budget per day: $15-$30
• accommodation cost per day: $35-$50 for backpackers and $60+ for mid-range hotels
• 3-week budget: $1,400-$2,300 (excluding flights to and back)

SUMMARY OF EUROPE IN 3 WEEKS

Europe might be expensive in general, but with enough planning and research, you should be able to create a travel plan for Europe without spending too much.

Our own guide to Europe in 3 weeks on a budget, consists of our personal list of places that I visited and perhaps you can visit them as well depending on your budget, season and activity preference.

These budget ranges are for participating in group tours and eating in bazaars, holiday fairs or mobile food carts instead of going to fancy restaurants. 

Next summer, I plan to be in Europe for 3 weeks visiting Italy (can never get enough!, Slovenia, and Czechia.

We hope reading this has been enjoyable and informative for you as much as compiling this list has been delightful. We also hope you would consider going to Europe because there are many famous scenic spots and hidden gems just waiting to be visited.

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29 top cheap weekend getaways in the u.s..

Weekend getaways are often cheaper by default – especially in these destinations.

Top Cheap Weekend Getaways

Jason Tarr | Courtesy of ExploreAsheville.com

Asheville, North Carolina, is one of the best places for an affordable weekend escape.

Sometimes you just need to escape from your everyday routine – but you may not have weeks (or funds) on end to spend away from home. For those seeking a quick, affordable trip, we've compiled a variety of cheap weekend getaways across the U.S., organized by region so you can find something within driving distance to keep costs low (or further afield if you're up for the journey).

Top Regional Destinations:

Burlington, vermont.

Getty Images

You don't have to spend a lot of money to enjoy Burlington, Vermont – especially since the best ways to experience it are low-cost or free. Rent bikes and go for a ride on the Burlington Bike Path, which later becomes the Island Line Trail – a stunning pathway over Lake Champlain. You can also stroll Church Street Marketplace, where the Burlington Farmers Market is hosted on Saturdays; sample sweets at Lake Champlain Chocolates; and enjoy a craft beer tasting or two.

Niagara Falls, New York

There's no cost to visit this iconic landmark , and if you want to get up close, you'll find several affordable tours of Niagara Falls – namely boat rides that'll get you up close to the roaring waters. A visit to Niagara Falls, New York, also omits the cost (and hassle) of getting or renewing a passport . Free and low-cost things to do in Niagara Falls include hiking state parks and sampling vinos along the Niagara Wine Trail.

Atlantic City, New Jersey

You can enjoy an affordable weekend in Atlantic City – provided you steer clear of (or don't spend too much time at) the casinos. Instead, explore the beach and boardwalk, whose roots date back to 1870. Other budget-friendly things to do in Atlantic City including visiting Absecon Lighthouse (the tallest in New Jersey) and Lucy the Elephant. If you come here for a romantic getaway , treat yourself and your partner to dinner on the waterfront.

The Poconos, Pennsylvania

Spend as much or as little as you like in the Pocono Mountains. Located in northeastern Pennsylvania, the region's terrain affords a variety of free and low-cost activities amid beautiful scenery, from hiking and biking to fishing and boating. Lake Wallenpaupack, Hickory Run State Park and Lehigh Gorge State Park offer some of the best camping for those who'd like to keep lodging costs low, though you can also find affordable vacation rentals in the area.

Gettysburg, Pennsylvania

Courtesy of Destination Gettysburg

Gettysburg National Military Park (which also comprises the Gettysburg Museum and Visitor Center) is free to visit, and there's no cost to explore the Civil War battlefields with a national park ranger. Gettysburg ghost tours – a must for anyone who's interested in the area's haunted history – are relatively affordable, too, as are local hotels , which include options under $200 and $100 per night.

Farm Sanctuary: Watkins Glen, New York

Courtesy of Farm Sanctuary

Farm Sanctuary in the Finger Lakes region of New York is part animal sanctuary, part country retreat – and an ideal location for a weekend escape from New York City . Travelers eager for a break can book a tiny home or cabin and spend time with more than 500 rescued farm animals in Watkins Glen. Nightly rentals start at $250 per night (plus a $25 membership fee) for up to two people in May through December, and include a special tour each morning of your stay. Sample the region's signature rieslings and chardonnays at some of the top wineries in the Finger Lakes during your visit, or hike to waterfalls at Watkins Glen State Park .

Address: 3150 Aikens Road, Watkins Glen, NY 14891

Black Hills National Forest and Badlands National Park, South Dakota

This area of the U.S. is home to Mount Rushmore, Custer State Park and the fascinating caverns of Wind Cave, making it easy to see several iconic attractions in one jaunt. To save on entry fees, consider the America the Beautiful National Park Pass. Priced at $80, it provides access to all national parks and federally protected lands in the U.S., so you'll likely be able to use it for another trip down the road, too.

Read: The Top Things to Do in South Dakota

Holiday World & Splashin' Safari: Santa Claus, Indiana

Courtesy of Holiday World & Splashin' Safari

Holiday World & Splashin' Safari ranks among the most affordable amusement parks in the U.S., in part because of its free parking and modest lodging costs. The amusement park also offers complimentary family-friendly perks with admission, including sunscreen and soft drinks.

Address: 452 E. Christmas Blvd., Santa Claus, IN 47579

Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin

Courtesy of Wisconsin Dells Visitor & Convention Bureau

Wisconsin Dells is home to myriad water park resorts – many of which combine water park admission and overnight lodging in one rate. Other attractions in Wisconsin Dells include a Ripley's Believe It Or Not museum, a bustling downtown and plenty of gorgeous scenery marked by unique rock formations. You can frequently find hotel and attraction discounts on the Wisconsin Dells tourism bureau's website ; keep in mind for any family trips that the best prices are typically available when kids are in school.

Branson, Missouri

Courtesy of Explore Branson

Table Rock Lake State Park, where you can swim, canoe, kayak, fish, hike and bike, as well as Branson Landing, which features a spectacular fountain show at night, are among the free attractions in Branson, Missouri . You can also ride a free trolley around town from March to December. The most expensive activity in Branson might be a visit to Silver Dollar City, though you can often find deals on tickets, like discounted evening rates in the fall. For affordable lodging in Branson , try the Thousand Hills Resort Hotel , which often lists rates around $100 per night.

Indianapolis, Indiana

Courtesy of Visit Indy

There are a variety of free things to do in Indianapolis , including the Monon Trail, which connects downtown Indy to the Carmel area, with shops and restaurants along the way; the 250-acre White River State Park, perfect for a picnic lunch; and the Indianapolis Cultural Trail, which connects the city's public spaces. On the first Thursday of every month, the Newfields Art Museum offers free admission (and whether or not you go to the museum, the grounds alone are worth a visit). In the summer, Concerts on the Canal brings free entertainment to the area – just bring your own blanket or lawn chair.

No matter your budget, a visit to the Indianapolis Children's Museum is worth the splurge if traveling with kids – it is the largest children's museum in the world.

Cedar Point: Sandusky, Ohio

Courtesy of Cedar Point

Not only is Cedar Point one of the best amusement parks in the U.S. – and the self-proclaimed Roller Coaster Capital of the World – but a visit here is also relatively cheap when you factor in the affordability of hotels in Sandusky . The Comfort Inn Sandusky , for example, offers free breakfast with rates starting at less than $100 per night. Keep in mind that, as a seasonal attraction, Cedar Point is typically closed from November to early May.

Address: 1 Cedar Point Drive, Sandusky, OH 44870

Read: The Top Water Parks in Ohio

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks Newsletter

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Washington, D.C.

Courtesy of Washington.org

With 22 free Smithsonian museums including the National Zoo, Washington, D.C. is an obvious choice for a cheap weekend getway. And while many hotels in D.C. are expensive, you can still find affordable accommodations on rental sites like Airbnb and Vrbo.

Gulf Shores, Alabama

Gulf Shores boasts more than 30 miles of white sand beaches , making it one of the best beaches on the Gulf Coast . You don't have to visit during the summer to experience the area's best weather, though: Spring and fall bring temperatures that are still comfortable for sunbathing, swimming and strolling on the sand.

Budget-friendly things to do in Gulf Shores include bike riding at Gulf State Park; casting a line at Gulf State Park Fishing and Education Pier; exploring The Wharf, an entertainment and shopping venue; and visiting the Orange Beach History Museum and the Gulf Shores Museum, both of which are free. At local hotels like the Staybridge Suites Gulf Shores , nightly rates for apartment-style accommodations and free breakfast currently hover around $100 a night.

Massanutten Resort: Massanutten, Virginia

An ideal weekend getaway from Washington, D.C. , Massanutten Resort offers four-season fun, from winter sports like skiing and snowboarding to golf, mountain biking and water park action during warmer months. A la carte fees for many activities allow you to spend as much or as little as you'd like, and while there's a nightly resort fee, it covers access to the indoor and outdoor pools, playgrounds, sports courts (including pickleball), hiking trails and more. Plus, the resort fee doesn't seem so bad when you consider that townhomes and guest rooms are available for less than $150 a night.

Address: 1822 Resort Drive, Massanutten, VA 22840

Asheville, North Carolina

Krista Rossow | Courtesy of ExploreAsheville.com

Situated within the Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville is known for its mix of history (Biltmore Estate), nature (the Blue Ridge Mountains) and food (from craft breweries to a flourishing dining scene). Travelers can tackle a number of hikes in Asheville for some scenic – and low-cost – fun. You can also stroll along the 1.7-mile Asheville Urban Trail to learn about the city's unique past, go for a drive along the Blue Ridge Parkway and explore downtown, where you're bound to come across some of the tiny city's famous street performers. Great Smoky Mountains National Park is an easy and relatively affordable day trip from Asheville, too.

Bahia Honda Key, Florida

You don't have to visit Key West – or break the bank – to experience the best of the Florida Keys; in fact, the best beaches in the Florida Keys are not even in Key West. At Bahia Honda State Park, for example, you can swim, rent kayaks and snorkeling gear, or even hop on a boat to snorkel in the Looe Key marine sanctuary reef. Entry fees at Bahia Honda State Park are $8 per vehicle with two to eight passengers. Plus, you can camp here for just $36 per night (not including tax and the utility and reservation fees). Renting a cabin costs about $120 per night plus fees from May through October, and slightly more in the cooler months.

Read: The Best Places for Camping in Florida

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina

One of the most affordable beach destinations in the U.S., Myrtle Beach is known for its roster of low-cost or free activities that appeal to travelers of all ages. Explore the mile-long Myrtle Beach Boardwalk (home to the iconic Skywheel) as well as Broadway at the Beach (an entertainment complex), both of which offer live entertainment including music performances and fireworks shows. Vereen Memorial Gardens, just north of the city, is also free to visit. When it comes to Myrtle Beach accommodations , there are affordable options aplenty; the Crown Reef Resort, for example, offers an on-site, year-round water park and rates as low as $92 per night for a family of four.

Polk County, Florida

Courtesy of Visit Central Florida

A vacation in Orlando has its time and place, but if you're on the hunt for a cheap weekend getaway, head to Polk County instead. Here, you can explore stunning (and free) parks and nature preserves such as Bok Tower Gardens, a National Historic Landmark, as well as Bonnet Springs Park. The park connects several attractions, including a kids treehouse, a rooftop bar, a butterfly house, The Florida Children's Museum, botanical gardens and more. Legoland Florida Resort and Peppa Pig Theme Park are close by if you decide to splurge on a theme park visit.

New Orleans

There are more things to do in New Orleans than you could ever accomplish in a weekend, but you can still enjoy a short and cheap trip to The Big Easy. Ogle the historic houses in the Garden District, stroll along iconic Magazine Street, wander through the French Quarter (where you're bound to see street performers), or stop in a local eatery for a famous po'boy sandwich or beignet. For affordable accommodations in New Orleans , look outside of the French Quarter.

South Padre Island, Texas

Courtesy of South Padre Island CVB

Not only does South Padre Island offer 34 miles of coastline and the cleanest beach water in Texas, but it's also ultra-affordable. Low-cost attractions include Sea Turtle, Inc., which is currently building the world's largest sea turtle hospital, and South Padre Island Birding and Nature Center. There are also plenty of places to enjoy fishing, one of the island's most popular activities. A visit to the Port Isabel Lighthouse State Historic Site – the last Texas lighthouse open to the public – costs just $5 per adult ($3 for kids). Sandcastle Days, the island's beloved festival that is hosted every October, is also free.

Joshua Tree National Park, California

One of the most beautiful national parks in California , Joshua Tree National Park is also fairly affordable thanks to campgrounds like Jumbo Rocks, where you can enjoy the seclusion of the deserted wilderness. There are more than 100 primitive campsites available here, with reservations required in the busy season from September to May; a maximum of six people can occupy a campsite for just $20 per night (on top of fees to enter the park).

San Luis Obispo, California

Courtesy of Visit SLO CAL

Combining small-town charm with beautiful weather, San Luis Obispo is an ideal weekend getaway from Los Angeles (about 190 miles from the city). With the plethora of outdoor activities here, visitors can enjoy budget-friendly fun like hiking the area's trails, surfing in the ocean, zip lining or horseback riding. For local flavor, visit the Thursday evening farmers market or dine alfresco at one of many downtown patios. The town's free Concerts in the Plaza series features performances by the area's top artists. Beaches await those seeking relaxation in SLO, while wine lovers can explore the region's Edna Valley wineries.

A glitzy getaway in Las Vegas can be yours – and it may be less expensive than you initially imagined. Hotels in Vegas can cost as little as $50 per night on weekdays (plus resort fees), and local attractions like Bellagio Fountains, the Fremont Street Experience, the Las Vegas Sign and Seven Magic Mountains (just outside the city) are all free to visit. This might just mean you'll have some room in your budget for a casino visit, tickets to one of the city's spectacular shows , and/or a tour of the Grand Canyon .

Sedona, Arizona

Courtesy of Sedona Chamber of Commerce & Tourism Bureau

It won't cost you a penny to visit most attractions in Sedona , including Cathedral Rock, Devil's Bridge and Fay Canyon. And while Sedona's spa and wellness resorts are undoubtedly pricey, you can find lodging for less in off-peak months (summer and winter), as well as a variety of vacation rentals year-round.

Read: The Top Things to Do in Arizona

Gros Ventre Wilderness, Wyoming

The Gros Ventre Wilderness, which is part of the greater Yellowstone ecosystem, is another natural wonder worth visiting. Plan a weekend here to discover rolling rivers, abundant wildlife, and amazing geological features such as rock formations and natural slides. As for accommodations, travelers can rent the cozy Hoback Guard Station cabin for $80 per night for a party of up to six guests from May to October.

Olympic National Park, Washington

Olympic National Park is well worth a weekend visit, whether you want to hike, stargaze or explore its more than 70 miles of untouched Pacific Coast shoreline – which include dog-friendly beaches , if your furry friend wants to come along. While here, visit the famous Hoh Rain Forest, Lake Crescent and Rialto Beach. You can even camp within the park for as little as $40 per night for up to 10 people sharing a campsite. Note that you'll have to pay a fee to enter the park.

Read: The Best Weekend Getaways from Seattle

Albuquerque, New Mexico

Courtesy of Visit Albuquerque

Albuquerque is quirky and fun, with an Old Town that features cobblestone streets and adobe-style buildings and is free to explore. Plan a visit during spring or fall for the best weather, then take advantage of local, low-cost festivals: May brings the New Mexico Wine Festival ($25 or less per ticket) to town, or come autumn, you can stop by the famous Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta (around $15 per person) to witness one of the best hot air balloon festivals in the U.S. Other things to do in Albuquerque include visiting the Petroglyph National Monument, which is free of charge. Opt for a vacation rental rather than a hotel to save some coin.

San Antonio, Texas

San Antonio is an affordable Texas destination brimming with cultural flair, historical significance and free activities. There's no cost to visit iconic attractions like the Alamo or the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park, and you won't pay anything to stroll the famous River Walk (though dining at least once here is a must). Another popular activity, narrated river cruises are also cheap, with tickets for less than $15 per person via local operator GO RIO Cruises.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Cheap Family Vacations
• The Best Cheap All-Inclusive Resorts
• The Best Cheap Spring Break Destinations
• The Best Presidents Day Weekend Getaways
• The Cheapest Travel Insurance Companies

Cheap Tropical Vacations

Tags: Travel , Budget Travel , US Vacations

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

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[2023] Ultimate Packing Checklist: What to Pack for a 3-Week Trip

• August 20, 2023
• Long-Term Travel Checklists

Are you planning a 3-week trip and feeling overwhelmed about what to pack? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! Our team of expert travelers at Travel Checklist™ has put together the ultimate packing checklist to ensure you have everything you need for a successful and stress-free trip. From clothing and toiletries to electronics and travel accessories, we’ve got all the essentials covered. So grab your suitcase and let’s get packing!

Table of Contents

Quick answer, quick tips and facts, how to pack smartly for a 3-week trip, recommended packing for a 3-week trip, free printable packing list (with different seasons), covid packing tips, recommended luggages, recommended packing cubes, recommended toiletries bag, other basic travel tips, recommended links, reference links.

To pack for a 3-week trip, you’ll need a well-planned packing list. Here are the essentials you should include:

• Clothing : Pack enough clothes for each day, including underwear, socks, and sleepwear. Consider the climate and activities you’ll be doing.
• Toiletries : Bring travel-sized toiletries such as shampoo, conditioner, toothpaste, and sunscreen. Don’t forget your toothbrush and any necessary medications.
• Electronics : Bring your phone, charger, and any other electronics you’ll need. Consider a portable charger for on-the-go charging.
• Travel Accessories : Pack a travel pillow, eye mask, earplugs, and a reusable water bottle. Don’t forget your travel documents and a money belt for added security.
• Other Essentials : Include a first aid kit, travel-sized laundry detergent, and a universal adapter for charging your devices.

Remember, it’s important to pack light and only bring what you truly need. Consider the duration of your trip, the climate, and the activities you’ll be doing. Now let’s dive into the details!

• Roll, don’t fold : Rolling your clothes instead of folding them can save space in your suitcase and help prevent wrinkles.
• Pack versatile clothing : Choose clothing items that can be mixed and matched to create multiple outfits.
• Check the weather : Before you pack, check the weather forecast for your destination to ensure you’re prepared for the climate.
• Leave room for souvenirs : If you plan on shopping during your trip, leave some extra space in your suitcase for souvenirs.
• Consider laundry options : If you’ll have access to laundry facilities, you can pack fewer clothes and plan to do laundry during your trip.

Packing smartly is the key to a successful trip. Here are some tips to help you pack efficiently and maximize space in your suitcase:

• Make a packing list : Before you start packing, make a list of all the items you’ll need for your trip. This will help you stay organized and ensure you don’t forget anything important.
• Choose the right suitcase : Select a suitcase that is lightweight, durable, and meets the size requirements of your airline. Consider a suitcase with wheels for easy maneuverability.
• Use packing cubes : Packing cubes are a game-changer when it comes to organizing your suitcase. Use them to separate your clothes into different categories, such as tops, bottoms, and underwear.
• Pack in layers : Layer your clothes in the suitcase, starting with heavier items at the bottom and lighter items on top. This will help prevent wrinkles and make it easier to find what you need.
• Utilize empty spaces : Fill empty spaces in your suitcase, such as shoes or hats, with smaller items like socks or accessories. This will help maximize space and prevent items from shifting during travel.
• Roll, don’t fold : As mentioned earlier, rolling your clothes instead of folding them can save space and prevent wrinkles. Roll items tightly and place them in packing cubes or directly in your suitcase.
• Pack travel-sized toiletries : Instead of bringing full-sized toiletries, opt for travel-sized versions to save space. You can also purchase toiletries at your destination if necessary.
• Wear your bulkiest items : If you have bulky items like jackets or boots, wear them on the plane to save space in your suitcase.
• Leave room for souvenirs : If you plan on shopping during your trip, leave some extra space in your suitcase or consider packing a foldable duffel bag for the return journey.

By following these packing tips, you’ll be able to fit everything you need into your suitcase and travel with ease.

Now let’s take a closer look at what you should pack for a 3-week trip. This list includes essential items for both men and women, as well as some additional recommendations based on our expert travel experiences.

• Tops : Pack a mix of short-sleeve and long-sleeve shirts, depending on the climate. Choose versatile pieces that can be dressed up or down.
• Bottoms : Bring a few pairs of pants or skirts, as well as shorts if the weather permits. Opt for neutral colors that can be easily paired with different tops.
• Dresses : If you prefer dresses, pack a few that can be dressed up or down. Choose lightweight and wrinkle-resistant fabrics.
• Outerwear : Depending on the climate, pack a lightweight jacket or sweater for layering. Consider a waterproof jacket if you’ll be in a rainy destination.
• Underwear and socks : Pack enough underwear and socks for each day of your trip. Consider packing a few extra pairs in case of emergencies.
• Sleepwear : Bring comfortable sleepwear, such as pajamas or loungewear.
• Swimwear : If you’ll be near a beach or pool, don’t forget to pack swimwear.
• Shoes : Bring a few pairs of comfortable shoes for different activities. Consider a pair of sneakers, sandals, and dress shoes if needed.
• Shampoo and conditioner : Pack travel-sized bottles of shampoo and conditioner or use solid shampoo bars for a more eco-friendly option.
• Body wash or soap : Bring a travel-sized body wash or soap.
• Toothbrush and toothpaste : Don’t forget your toothbrush and toothpaste.
• Deodorant : Pack a travel-sized deodorant or use a solid deodorant for a more eco-friendly option.
• Sunscreen : Protect your skin from the sun with a travel-sized sunscreen.
• Moisturizer : Keep your skin hydrated with a travel-sized moisturizer.
• Makeup : Only bring the essentials and opt for travel-sized versions if possible.
• Medications : If you take any medications, be sure to pack enough for the duration of your trip.
• First aid kit : Include basic first aid items such as band-aids, pain relievers, and any necessary prescription medications.

Electronics

• Phone and charger : Don’t forget your phone and charger.
• Camera : If you enjoy photography, bring a camera and any necessary accessories.
• Portable charger : Keep your devices charged on the go with a portable charger.
• Adapters : If you’re traveling to a different country, pack a universal adapter to charge your devices.

Travel Accessories

• Travel pillow : Get some much-needed rest during long flights or train rides with a travel pillow.
• Eye mask and earplugs : Block out light and noise for a better night’s sleep.
• Reusable water bottle : Stay hydrated throughout your trip with a reusable water bottle.
• Travel documents : Don’t forget your passport, ID, and any necessary travel documents.
• Money belt : Keep your valuables safe with a money belt.

Other Essentials

• Laundry detergent : Pack a travel-sized laundry detergent if you plan on doing laundry during your trip.
• Reusable shopping bag : Bring a foldable reusable shopping bag for any shopping you do during your trip.
• Travel guidebook or maps : If you prefer physical copies, bring a travel guidebook or maps of your destination.
• Travel insurance : Consider purchasing travel insurance for added peace of mind.

Remember, this list is a general guide and may vary depending on your personal preferences and the specific requirements of your trip. Be sure to tailor your packing list to your needs.

To help you stay organized, we’ve created a free printable packing list that you can download and use for your 3-week trip. This packing list includes different sections for clothing, toiletries, electronics, and more. It also includes checkboxes to help you keep track of what you’ve packed.

Download the Free Printable Packing List Here

In light of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, it’s important to pack some additional items to keep yourself safe and healthy during your trip. Here are some COVID packing tips to consider:

• Face masks : Pack multiple face masks and bring extras in case of emergencies.
• Hand sanitizer : Carry a travel-sized hand sanitizer and use it frequently.
• Disinfecting wipes : Pack disinfecting wipes to clean surfaces such as airplane trays or hotel room doorknobs.
• Disposable gloves : Consider packing a few pairs of disposable gloves for added protection.
• Extra medications : If you take any prescription medications, pack extra in case of unexpected delays.
• Travel-sized tissues : Keep travel-sized tissues on hand for personal use.

Remember to stay informed about the COVID-19 guidelines and restrictions in your destination and follow all recommended safety measures.

Choosing the right luggage is essential for a smooth and hassle-free trip. Here are some recommended luggage options:

These luggage options offer durability, maneuverability, and ample storage space to suit your travel needs.

Packing cubes are a must-have for any organized traveler. They help keep your suitcase neat and tidy, making it easier to find what you need. Here are some recommended packing cubes:

These packing cubes will help you stay organized and make the most of the space in your suitcase.

A toiletries bag is essential for keeping your personal care items organized and easily accessible. Here are some recommended toiletries bags:

These toiletries bags offer functionality, durability, and style to keep your personal care items organized during your trip.

Here are some additional travel tips to help you have a smooth and enjoyable 3-week trip:

• Research your destination : Familiarize yourself with the local customs, traditions, and any travel advisories for your destination.
• Pack a photocopy of your passport : In case your passport gets lost or stolen, having a photocopy can make the replacement process easier.
• Notify your bank and credit card companies : Let your bank and credit card companies know about your travel plans to avoid any issues with your cards.
• Pack a travel lock : Keep your belongings secure by using a travel lock on your suitcase.
• Stay hydrated : Drink plenty of water throughout your trip to stay hydrated, especially if you’re traveling to a hot or humid destination.
• Learn a few basic phrases : If you’re traveling to a country where English is not widely spoken, learn a few basic phrases in the local language to help you communicate.
• Leave room in your itinerary for downtime : While it’s tempting to fill your itinerary with activities, be sure to leave some time for relaxation and downtime.

By following these travel tips, you’ll be well-prepared for your 3-week trip and ready to make lasting memories.

How do you pack light for 3 weeks?

Packing light for a 3-week trip can be challenging, but it’s definitely possible. Here are some tips to help you pack light:

• Choose versatile clothing : Pack clothing items that can be mixed and matched to create multiple outfits.
• Pack lightweight and quick-drying fabrics : Opt for lightweight and quick-drying fabrics that are easy to wash and dry.
• Limit your shoe options : Choose a few pairs of comfortable shoes that can be worn with multiple outfits.
• Plan to do laundry : If you’ll have access to laundry facilities, plan to do laundry during your trip to reduce the number of clothes you need to pack.
• Use packing cubes : Packing cubes can help you stay organized and maximize space in your suitcase.
• Leave non-essential items behind : Be ruthless when it comes to packing and leave behind any non-essential items.

Read more about “[2023] How Do You Pack Light for a 3-Week Trip? Your Ultimate Guide”

How many shoes to pack for 3 weeks?

The number of shoes you should pack for a 3-week trip depends on the activities you’ll be doing and the climate of your destination. As a general guideline, we recommend packing:

• 1-2 pairs of comfortable walking shoes : Choose shoes that are suitable for walking long distances and exploring your destination.
• 1 pair of sandals or flip-flops : Sandals or flip-flops are great for warm weather and can be worn casually or dressed up.
• 1 pair of dress shoes (optional) : If you have any formal events or dinners planned, consider packing a pair of dress shoes.

Remember, it’s important to choose shoes that are comfortable and versatile to minimize the number of pairs you need to pack.

What is the 5 4 3 2 1 packing method?

The 5 4 3 2 1 packing method is a popular technique for packing light. It involves packing a limited number of clothing items to create multiple outfits. Here’s how it works:

• 5 sets of underwear and socks : Pack 5 sets of underwear and socks, one for each day of your trip.
• 4 tops : Choose 4 tops that can be mixed and matched with different bottoms.
• 3 bottoms : Pack 3 bottoms, such as pants or skirts, that can be paired with different tops.
• 2 pairs of shoes : Bring 2 pairs of shoes, one for walking and one for dressier occasions.
• 1 jacket or sweater : Pack 1 jacket or sweater that can be layered over your tops.

By following this method, you’ll have enough clothing options for a 3-week trip while keeping your luggage light and manageable.

Read more about “What is the 5 4 3 2 1 packing method?”

Can I pack a carry-on for a 3-week trip?

Packing a carry-on for a 3-week trip is possible, but it requires careful planning and packing light. Here are some tips to help you pack a carry-on for your 3-week trip:

• Choose the right carry-on bag : Select a carry-on bag that meets the size requirements of your airline and has enough storage space for your belongings.
• Use packing cubes : Packing cubes can help you stay organized and maximize space in your carry-on bag.
• Wear your bulkiest items : If you have bulky items like jackets or boots, wear them on the plane to save space in your carry-on bag.

Keep in mind that carry-on size restrictions vary by airline, so be sure to check the guidelines before you pack.

Read more about “[2023] How to Pack for a 3-Week Trip Overseas: The Ultimate Guide”

Packing for a 3-week trip can seem daunting, but with the right planning and organization, it can be a breeze. By following our ultimate packing checklist and tips, you’ll be well-prepared and ready to embark on your adventure. Remember to pack light, choose versatile clothing, and consider the specific needs of your destination. Happy travels!

• Shop Luggage on: Amazon | Walmart | Etsy
• Shop Packing Cubes on: Amazon | Walmart | Etsy
• Shop Toiletries Bags on: Amazon | Walmart | Etsy
• Shop Travel Accessories on: Amazon | Walmart | Etsy
• Shop Electronics on: Amazon | Walmart | Etsy
• Shop Travel Guidebooks on: Amazon
• Shop Travel Insurance on: Amazon

For more helpful travel checklists and tips, visit Travel Checklist™ .

• https://www.travelandleisure.com/travel-tips/packing-tips
• https://www.thespruce.com/what-to-pack-for-a-three-week-trip-4685791
• https://www.nomadicmatt.com/travel-blogs/packing/
• https://www.smartertravel.com/packing-tips/

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The Ultimate 3-Week Road Trip Across North America 2024

Are you embarking on the ultimate 3-week road trip across north america in 2023.

After a long few years of on and off travel restrictions, this 3-week road trip across North America is the ultimate way to break out of your comfort zone and start seeing the world again.

You’ll be exposed to some amazing sights, get the opportunity to meet interesting people, and possibly even get the chance to capture some amazing wildlife on film!

You’ve likely traveled by plane, train, boat, and scooter before, but, perhaps it’s time for a new adventure… say, a car or van, perhaps?

Before you hit the open road, there are a few things you need to do to make sure your trip goes smoothly, however, which is exactly where I come in.

In this article, I have provided you with a detailed 3-week North American itinerary, all the information you need to know about planning a road trip, important safety tips, and much more.

My goal for you is after reading this article, you’ll be ready to pack your bags and embark on the journey of your lifetime. So, let’s get to it!

Table of Contents

Week 1: massachusetts to colorado, week 2: colorado to british columbia, week 3: british columbia to prudhoe bay, alaska (the arctic circle), map of this 3 week road trip across north america, the best time to visit the u.s., how to get around the u.s., where to stay in the u.s. on a road trip, what to eat on a 3-week road trip across america, what to pack for a 21-day usa road trip, tips for planning a u.s. road trip, safety tips for going on a 3-week road trip across america, faq: 3-week road trip across america, the ultimate 3-week road trip across north america itinerary.

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This 21-day USA itinerary marks its beginning on the East Coast in the iconic city of Boston, Massachusetts.

From this popular South Shore city, you’ll make your way through the central United States, heading northwest from Colorado through Canada’s territories, and finally ending in the Arctic Circle where you’ll step foot in one of the northernmost cities in the world!

Of course, there will be plenty of national park stops along the way for the avid nature enthusiast, like myself.

The goal of this itinerary is to get from as far East Coast to as far West Coast as you possibly can in just 3 weeks.

It’s the ultimate guide for relocating to Alaska or the West Coast of the U.S. and perfect if you want to be one of the few people in the world who can say they drove one of the longest distances across North America (6,000+ miles to be exact!)

Following the itinerary, keep reading for tips on planning a 3-week road trip across America, safety information, where to stay, how to get around, when to visit each region, and more.

In week one of this itinerary, we’ll be visiting 6 different locations, but don’t stress! 3 of them are all within an hour of each other in Colorado.

You’ll have plenty of time to do some sightseeing and not stress yourself out with too much driving as you start acclimating to life on the road.

Niagara Falls, New York

No 3-week road trip across America would be complete without a quick visit to Niagara Falls! A 7-hour drive from the city of Boston will take you through New York’s capital of Albany and straight onto the Canadian border from Syracuse.

Niagara Falls is a staggering 2,200 feet wide and 188 feet high in certain places making it one of the most impressive waterfalls in North America.

During your visit, you can take a walk along the 3-mile Niagara Parkway and enjoy the rushing rapids before the falls drop, or view them up close with a boat ride on the Maid of the Mist .

Now, you’ve probably heard that there are two sides to Niagara Falls – the New York side and the Canadian side. And if you have heard of this, then it’s likely that you’ve also heard that the Canadian side is better.

While I really enjoyed my time visiting the New York side which came equipped with dozens of food trucks, a beautiful green park, and plenty of viewing areas, these rumors are true.

The Canadian side offers a far better perspective for viewing the width and depth of the falls, so if you’re looking for some prime photo opportunities, then it will be in your best interest to spend some time in line at the Canadian border.

Just be sure to remember your passport and consider practicing your French speaking skills before you go!

✅ If you want a really special experience then consider booking a helicopter ride over the Niagra Falls. It’s a once in a lifetime experience. This 4.5 star review helicopter ride is the best out there.

Cuyahoga Valley National Park, OH

From Niagara Falls, it’s time to head toward the Midwest, where you’ll be spending a day in the beautiful Cuyahoga Valley National Park!

Depending on which side of Niagara Falls you visited, you can either continue your journey south from the New York side through Buffalo and down towards Cleveland, Ohio which takes about 3.5 hours, or you can continue your drive through Canada and pass through Detroit.

I don’t typically recommend the latter of the two since it would take nearly 7 hours of driving, and the journey would include some eastward backtracking which isn’t what we want when trying to be efficient.

Cuyahoga Valley National Park is the perfect road trip stop for nature lovers, as it’s a beautiful oasis right in the middle of Central America.

This park is set along the Cuyahoga River and features pristine hiking trails (my favorites were the Kendall Lake Loop and Deer Run trails), over 100 miles of scenic biking paths, and plenty of outdoor activities.

If you’re looking to get up close with some wildlife, don’t forget to visit the Beaver Marsh and see if you can spot any beavers or migrant birds!

Pro Tip: After exploring Cuyahoga Valley National Park and kicking off your journey on the east coast, it’s important to remember that as you make your way westward, there aren’t going to be an insane amount of stops worth checking out for more than a few hours, unless you decide to drive south towards Tennessee and the surrounding states where there are several beautiful national forests.

Indiana Dunes National Park, IN

From Cuyahoga, head directly west about 4.5 hours to the beautiful Indiana Dunes National Park!

Known for its expansive beaches on the southern shore of Lake Michigan, Indiana Dunes will blow you away with its pristine landscape and stunning views.

This national park is one of America’s lesser-known gems and is home to 50 miles of hiking trails and 15 miles of sandy beachfront making it the perfect spot to spend a night on your long drive.

If you enjoy sleeping under the stars, be sure to check out Dunewood Campground which is located inside the national park and is nearby Lake Michigan and some great hiking trails including Cowles Bog Trail as well as Glenwood Dunes Trail.

They have clean and well-run facilities, as well as perfectly groomed camping pads so you shower and sleep in peace following your day’s hike.

Rocky Mountain National Park, CO

Keeping on the national park theme, we’re off to Colorado! Now, you’re probably thinking, “what about Illinois, Iowa, and Nebraska?”, and the truth is, there really isn’t much to do near your driving route in these states.

I would, however, recommend stopping at the world’s largest truck stop on I-80 in Iowa!

But, as far as scenic stops go, you’re better off grabbing a campsite or bnb in Lincoln , Nebraska (about halfway on this 15-hour stretch), and continuing on to Colorado where you’ll be spoiled for choice with things to do.

✅ Take a look at Graduate Lincoln for an awesome night of luxury.

Don’t worry, there will be endless corn and hay fields which are actually quite beautiful along the way, but don’t expect anything too crazy to happen at this point in the journey.

Once you enter the breathtaking state of Colorado, don’t be surprised if you have to drive for an extra hour or two before you start seeing the mountains. This surprised me on my first visit when I drove along I-76, so I wanted to give you a fair warning.

But, once you start seeing the city, you’ll be so close to the absolutely incredible Rocky Mountain National Park!

Known for its expansive peaks, miles of hiking trails, and clear alpine lakes, this is one national park you don’t want to miss on your 3-week road trip across North America.

Check out Bear Lake Trailhead which offers stunning views of the pristine lake and endless mountains in the background. Or if you’re feeling adventurous, approach Nymph Lake and Dream Lake for a full day of hiking that you won’t soon forget.

✅ Book a sunrise hot air balloon ride over the Rocky Mountains (but book in advance, they sell out quickly)

Rocky Mountain National Park is also covered in wildlife, so make sure to keep an eye out for deer, elk, moose, wolves, and even bears! Just don’t forget your bear spray if you plan on hiking through the park.

You could spend weeks in this park without seeing everything there is to see and do, but since we’re trying to be efficient, 2 nights or so will definitely do the trick.

Pro Tip: To limit the number of people in the park before 3:00 PM every day, you may need to reserve your timed entry spot online in the 2023 season. This can be done weeks in advance, but if you don’t then you may be forced to wait until later in the day or come back on a different day entirely. You can check the rules and regulations for entry into the park on the National Park Service website as well as reserve your spot when the timeslots become available.

When in Colorado, you do as the Coloradans do! Walk around downtown Golden and you’ll immediately get a feel for the laid-back, friendly culture of this state.

Shop local stores on the iconic 12th Street and enjoy some craft beers on one of the many patios around town (my favorite brewery is The Golden Mill because of its rooftop bar with self-serve brew stations).

Be sure to make some time for a brewery tour around the world-famous Coors Brewery , and if you’re hungry, there’s no better place in Golden than The Post.

End your night in Golden with ice cream from Ben & Jerry’s and consider staying at the Table Mountain Inn for its close proximity to downtown and beautiful balconies overlooking the Rocky Mountains.

You can also combine your trip to Golden with a stop in Denver if you would like, though we have found Denver to be much more of a city that lacks the true Colorado feel.

✅ Book a stay at Table Mountain Inn here

Boulder, CO

As you make your way north towards Wyoming, be sure to stop in Boulder! Shadowed by the Flatirons on its western border, the city is known for its breathtaking views and epic outdoor activities.

Check out Chautauqua Park for a picnic lunch on the tables outside, or head to the Pearl Street Mall to do some shopping.

✅ Why not explore Chautauqua Park and more on an eBike tour. It’s one of the best ways to experience this beautiful place in a short amount of time.

Boulder is the perfect place to stock up on some craft beers and local snacks before hitting the road again, especially since you’ll be just an hour away from the gorgeous Estes Park.

In week 2, we have another six different locations, with four of them being national parks! If you would prefer to have more time in each of these places, you can always extend your trip by a few days if you want.

This is what I decided to do and it allowed me to stay in both Banff and Jasper National park for 2 nights each instead of one which made all the difference in my journey.

You also have the option of sticking to the major cities if you prefer, in which case Jackson Hole, WY is a fantastic place to consider.

Grand Tetons National Park, WY

Wyoming is often recognized for one thing: Yellowstone National Park . And don’t worry! We’ll get there (literally – it’s the next stop down on this itinerary), but it’s important to enjoy as much of the road trip as possible because let’s be honest… the journey is more than half of the fun.

If you haven’t heard of Grand Teton National Park before, you’re in for a real treat. Boasting some of the highest peaks in North America, the park is a sight to behold.

At an 8-hour drive from Boulder, it’s a good idea to either leave early in the morning if you’re open to a full day in the car, or plan to book an accommodation of sorts near the Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest.

✅ Step back in time with a stay at the Elk Mountain Hotel

I stayed at Dugway Campground which is a free dispersed camping site with just an outhouse and first-come-first-serve campsites.

Be sure to hike around Jenny Lake which has plenty of spots for fishing and check out the National Elk Refuge near Jackson Hole.

Just keep in mind that a large influx of native Spanish speakers have moved into the area in recent years, so it’s not a bad idea to brush up on your Spanish if you will be staying in Jackson Hole for a couple of nights since many of the locals speak Spanish as their first language.

Yellowstone National Park, WY

Ah, Yellowstone. Home to some of the most incredible wildlife in North America, you’re sure to be able to spot everything from bison and elk to bears and wolves as you make your way through this iconic park.

There are plenty of different hikes throughout the park and tons of outdoor activities, but what makes Yellowstone unique is its geothermal features like geysers and hot springs.

✅ Book the best geyser and hot springs tour here

The park is also home to the world-famous Old Faithful so be sure to check that out too! If you are interested in some popular day hikes , check out Bunsen Peak or the Mystic Falls Trails Loop which begins in Biscuit Basin.

Pro Tip: This is definitely one of those places on this itinerary where you should stop at the visitor center first so they can give you an overview of where all the animals are likely to be. This is also true at Grand Tetons National Park, where they have rangers consistently driving the park’s main roads and borders to keep track of where herds of elk, bison, and other wildlife are moving.

Canmore, AB, Canada

About 11 hours north of Yellowstone sits the largest city in Alberta, Canada… Calgary! But, just like most cities, Calgary has a lot of fast food spots and major highways, so it’s not exactly the place I recommend spending the night.

If you have a little more driving left in you for the day, head west about 75 minutes to the city of Canmore.

Nestled under the Canadian Rockies, this ski town perfectly represents the iconic town of Chamonix, France known for its craggy, snow-capped mountain peaks and European-style architecture and lodging!

You’ll find wooden chalets , quaint cafes (my favorite is The Summit Cafe on Cougar Creek Dr.) and nearby sits the beautiful Grassi Lakes.

✅ Stay at the beautiful Stoneridge Mountain Resort

It’s the perfect place to stop in for the night for amazing alpine views and good food before you continue your drive north to the iconic Banff and Jasper national parks.

Pro Tip: 11 hours is a long drive. Split it up by stopping in the town of St. Mary which serves as a hopping-off point for the very popular Glacier National Park! I didn’t end up including this stop on my way to Canada because I would’ve had to rush through it, but it’s definitely worth a visit if you want to make the time to stop in.

Columbia Falls on the west side of the park is where you’ll be the closest to the major sites and hiking trails if you find yourself with the time to reach it, but it is a good bit more off the direct route through Canada.

Banff National Park, AB, Canada

I don’t know about you, but I’ve been looking at pictures of the iconic Lake Moraine for years! And trust me when I say it is everything that you could hope for and more.

Be sure to stay the night right in the park (I really enjoyed Lake Louis Campground because it had a bear fence surrounding the whole campground, meaning it was much safer for myself and my dog), since you’ll be within a 20-minute drive of all the major sites in the park.

I recommend taking a drive up to Lake Louise early in the morning to beat the 9:00 AM crowds and then heading back down through the Bow Valley Parkway which is full of sweeping mountain views and tons of wildlife!

Banff National Park is full of incredible hikes, but my favorites were the Lake Agnes Teahouse (shown above) and Bow Glacier Falls Trail for their incredibly scenic routes and moderately challenging difficulty levels.

Again, just be sure you have an air horn, a bear bell, and bear spray if you are planning on making your way through the Canadian wilderness.

Wildlife sightings are very common, so it’s best to be well prepared and to make plenty of noise during your hike so you don’t startle any animals that may be in your path.

✅ Book a tour of all the best sights listed here if you’re short on time

Jasper National Park, AB, Canada

About a 3-hour drive along I-93 north will bring you to the jaw-dropping Jasper National Park.

Often overlooked by tourists starstruck by Banff, listen to me when I tell you that many of the people we met said they liked Jasper even more than Banff!

Fantastic for wildlife viewing and endless beautiful hiking trails with a fraction of the tourists of Banff, you’ll be so glad you decided to include this lesser-known national park in Canada.

Spend a day exploring the trails surrounding the Valley of the Five Lakes, where you can go swimming in crystal clear, turquoise-colored lakes, or pop into the center of town and try the nachos at the Jasper Brewing Company.

✅ One of the most popular things to do here is the Glacier Skywalk and the Athabasca Glacier. Book now through Viator

It’s the perfect place to wrap up your evening before taking to the road the next morning.

Pro Tip: While you don’t have as many native French speakers as Quebec in this region of Canada, the city of Canmore and regions surrounding the national parks do have quite a bit of French speakers. So, it’s a great opportunity to practice your French if you’re looking for a way to connect with the locals!

Dawson Creek, BC, Canada

Welcome to British Columbia!

5 hours northwest of Jasper National Park is the small town of Dawson Creek. Seems simple enough… but, there’s actually something quite amazing about this small town and a huge reason why you should include it on your 3-week road trip across North America.

It marks the beginning of the Alaska State Highway!

World famous for its rugged mountainous terrain, the Alaska Highway is a 1,390-mile stretch of road that connects the cities of Dawson Creek and Fairbanks in Alaska.

It’s full of small towns along the way where you can stop for gas and/or food, but it’s also full of absolutely stunning views from start to finish!

Dawson Creek itself doesn’t quite live up to its name, but it’s a great stopping point en route to Alaska if you’re in need of supplies. Plus, you’re likely going to want to break up the drive to Muncho Lake.

Muncho Lake, BC, Canada

From Dawson Creek, you’ll have a 7.5-hour drive up to Muncho Lake where you’ll be able to explore one of the most beautiful regions in British Columbia.

Muncho Lake is a breathtaking alpine lake with amazing hiking trails (particularly Stone’s Sheep Trail) that wind through alpine meadows and by glacier-fed rivers.

This region is also known for its incredible wildlife, so keep your eyes peeled for animals like elk, moose, and even bears!

You’ll want to set up camp right on the shores of the lake for the best views of the sunset and sunrise, but keep in mind that you need to get there early as there are only about 10 spots, or so. It’s first-come first-serve, and an environmentalist will come around at some point in the evening to collect $20 from you for the spot.

In return, you’ll receive a small pass that gets clipped to your campsite board for the duration of your stay.

Pro Tip: Drive slowly around Muncho Lake and keep a careful eye out for wildlife. This is where I spotted a pack of 5 wolves, a massive herd of Bison, a bald eagle, and a fox all within a few miles of each other!

On the third week of this North American road trip, you might start to feel like you wished you allotted more time for the drive, or perhaps the opposite, you are ready to kick it into high gear and complete your drive to the Arctic Circle.

Whatever the case may be, this is why it’s best to keep your schedule as flexible as possible while you’re road-tripping.

If you’re camping, this is quite simple since you can just book as you go, but if you’re staying in hotels or Airbnb’s for example, then it will be in your best interest to only book accommodations with free cancelation.

I ended up increasing my 3-week trip to a 4-week trip, and I was so glad I did! Consider how much time you have for traveling and if you have any time constraints limiting your flexibility before you start the drive, so you know exactly how much wiggle room you have with your itinerary.

Whitehorse, Yukon, Canada

But, to kick off our third and final week of this itinerary, we’ll be making the 8-hour drive up to the Yukon! Whitehorse, specifically.

Similar to Dawson Creek in the sense that it really is just one big city, it’s a good stopping point to get you that much closer to Alaska and it’s a great spot to pick up any supplies you may need.

Pro Tip: If you have yet to get an oil change and check your tire pressure on your road trip across North America so far, then Whitehorse is a great place to do it! There are plenty of mechanics and chain shops such as Jiffy Lube around that can take care of those simple fixes for you.

Tok, Alaska

If you can make it this far, you should be really proud of yourself. Driving cross-country is no easy feat and is definitely something to be celebrated! When we crossed the border into Alaska, it was a fun and exciting moment that I truly hope you get to experience for yourself.

It’s about 5.5 hours to the Alcan Border from Whitehorse, but I don’t really recommend stopping there. The border doesn’t really have much going on, except that you’ll cross this awesome “Welcome to Alaska” sign.

There really isn’t anywhere to stay either, so continue 1.5 hours to the small town of Tok, where you’ll find a small, but well-supplied town with a gas station, a couple of shops and stores, and a great self-serve campground called the Alaska Stoves Camp.

It’s on an honor system, so you can simply drop the money in a camp stove out front of the main building.

Pro Tip: You will cross into a different time zone once you enter Alaska, so be sure to keep this in mind if you’re counting the hours left in your drive using your car’s clock. You’ll also have the opportunity to drive south from Tok if you want to tack on some time in the stunning Wrangell-St. Elias National Park !

Fairbanks, AK

Once you’ve had a chance to refuel, hop back on Route 2 through Delta Junction and onto Fairbanks. It’s just a mere 3.5-hour drive from here which will feel like a breeze at this point in your 3-week North American road trip.

Fairbanks is a great city to stop for a night or two (I actually ended up staying 3 nights because my husband, dog, and I simply needed a break from the car) to catch up on some much-needed rest, particularly if you’ve been camping your way through the majority of this trip like we did.

✅ We recommend a stay the The Adamina. You can book here.

I should also mention that this is your last stop for about 13 hours of driving minimum (one-way, so 26 hours round-trip), so it is vital that you stock up on plenty of food and dry goods. If you have a jet-boil, you’ll be happy to have it!

Coldfoot, AK

Just shy of 6 hours north of Fairbanks will bring you to the tiny, dare I even say the word town, called Coldfoot.

There is one gas pump outside of a wooden building that serves some buffet-style food to truckers and the rare tourist making their way up the Dalton Highway to Prudhoe Bay.

It was surprisingly tasty considering its remoteness, but you may want to consider other means, especially if you have anyone in your group with a food restriction or allergy.

In terms of accommodations, well… we slept in our car, as did most of the people in the parking lot.

There is the Coldfoot Camp, but be prepared to pay a hefty fee for mediocre lodging at best. If you’re wondering why I would include Coldfoot as a stop on this 3-week road trip across North America, it’s because it’s actually the only stop en route to the Arctic Circle from Fairbanks.

You won’t find any gas stations or supermarkets between Fairbanks and Coldfoot, or between Coldfoot and Prudhoe Bay, so you’ll want to be sure you have a full tank of gas and plenty of food and water before departing for Coldfoot.

It’s the unfortunate reality of driving to one of the most remote places in the entire world.

But, if you have it in you to drive this far, I promise you can make it the rest of the way.

Prudhoe Bay, Alaska

Wake up bright and early, toss your blanket in the trunk of your car, and continue north on the Dalton Highway for an additional 5.5 hours on the last day of your road trip.

Please bear in mind that the Dalton Highway is often rated as one of the most dangerous highways in the entire world owing to its lack of cell service, extremely poor road conditions, and lack of emergency services, and it is not to be taken lightly.

You’ll want to ensure you have plenty of provisions to keep you warm and fed for at least a few days’ time, and it isn’t a bad idea to have a satellite phone on hand.

A spare tire and all of the associated parts should be kept on hand, as well, as popped tires are all too common here.

Keep your eye out for wildlife along the drive and keep your camera handy at all times.

This is one of the few places in North America where you can see arctic foxes, Dall sheep, caribou, grizzly bears, moose, and a myriad of other species native to the Alaskan north that you just won’t find anywhere else.

We loved seeing the tundra swans and tundra loons, plus we got to see muskoxen which were much larger than we expected.

Once you’ve reached Prudhoe Bay, be sure to book an Arctic Ocean Shuttle as it’s the only way to reach the Arctic Ocean. Since the ocean lies on the other side of private oil fields, you’ll need to provide your personal information and have a background check performed before you will be allowed to cross the oil fields with a guide.

It costs about $75 per person, but is well worth the money when you can say you stepped foot (or even taken a dip) in the Arctic Ocean!

Going up to my knees was plenty for me as there were mini glaciers floating all around and the water temperatures ranged in the high 30s Fahrenheit (around 3-4 degrees Celsius).

Pro Tip: Be prepared for chilly weather and cloudy skies, even in the summer months. The Dalton Highway is nearly impassable for 18-wheelers once the snow hits, so be sure to plan your visit during the early summer months if you want to cross into the Arctic Circle with little to no issues.

Now that you have the itinerary, let’s see it all mapped out! Here is the route that we took to cross from the East Coast of the U.S. to the West Coast all the way through Canada and ending in northernmost Alaska.

I want to ensure that I mention that this route would have been far more efficient had we crossed into Canada in North Dakota, but we had family in Colorado that we wanted to see anyway, plus we got to see so many more U.S. national parks this way.

You can arrange the journey however you please, but this route worked very well for us on our way to Alaska.

There is no one perfect time to visit the U.S., as every part of the country offers very different experiences throughout the year.

However, if you’re looking to do a U.S. road trip, I would recommend either early summer ( May-June ) or early fall ( late August-September ) when the weather is milder and the roads are less likely to be blocked by snow and endless flocks of tourists.

If you want to go skiing or see the Northern Lights, head to the mountains in winter (December-February), and if you want to visit theme parks or enjoy some warm weather and beaches, then visit during the summer months (June-August).

Just be sure to research what you want to do and where you want to go before making any final plans, as there can be some pretty big temperature swings from one part of the country to another!

For this 3-week U.S. road trip in particular, I would recommend not leaving any later than late July since you’ll want enough time to reach the Arctic Circle without worrying about getting hit with snow while driving the Dalton Highway.

U.S. road trips start with, you guessed it… a vehicle! Whether that be a suburban-style car or a converted sprinter van, you’ll need something with at least two wheels, but practically speaking, four would be much more convenient.

Of course, you always have the option of flying between your destinations, but you’ll miss out on everything along the way, and there are some really incredible sights to see.

Plus, it’s typically far more expensive to fly (unless you are staying in hotels the entire trip) since flights cost far more than gas, particularly in the mid-western states.

🏆 We highly recommend Escape Campervans 🏆 These campervans have everything you need to travel the country safely, comfortably, cheaply, and uniquely (seriously, go check out the designs on these vans!) They have excellent customer support and are now the largest campervan rental in North America, with over 90,000 happy customers. Head to their website and you’ll see why.

However, the general rule of thumb for the best way to get around the U.S. stems from your goals.

If you’re planning to visit multiple national parks or do more extensive sightseeing along your 3-week U.S. itinerary, then driving between destinations is the best choice.

But, if you want to be as efficient as possible and know exactly where you want to go and don’t need the flexibility in your schedule, then you should definitely fly between places to save time.

When it comes to figuring out where to stay on a U.S. road trip, you really are spoiled for choice. These days, you have endless high-end campgrounds, Airbnb’s, VRBO rentals, hotels, and even tree houses you can stay in.

But, it really all depends on what your comfort level is and what your budget is. So, let’s jump into some details on these topics.

Over our 4-week U.S. road trip, we decided to camp for 3.5 out of the 4 weeks. Why? We love camping and we also had a dog with us which made finding hotels and accommodations just a bit harder.

We also travel full-time, so this wasn’t as much of a vacation for us as it was just another trip where we were working on the road. So, we needed the experience to be both budget-friendly and pet-friendly.

It doesn’t really matter what your situation is, if you find yourself with similar limitations, then camping is a great option.

All across America, you can find endless options for campgrounds. From the more manicured camping option at the KOA Campgrounds to free dispersed camping in the national forests of Wyoming with nothing but an outhouse, you’re never without a spot to sleep.

This is a great way to keep your costs low and keep your schedule and U.S. road trip itinerary flexible in the event that you decide you want to spend an extra night somewhere or even leave a day or two early from a specific place.

In my opinion, campgrounds are the best place to stay when going on a cross-country road trip since you can set up your “home for the night” pretty much anywhere.

There are some downsides, of course, including the fact that you’ll be susceptible to the weather and safety can be a concern for some, particularly in regions with a lot of wildlife.

You’ll also notice that finding campgrounds with Wifi and free showers can be challenging, so you’ll need to be prepared for these practical limitations if you find them to be crucial to your daily routine.

Hotels and Accommodation Rentals

If money isn’t of much concern, then hotels and accommodation rental companies can be a very comfortable and luxurious way to make your journey cross country, as well.

There are hotels, bed and breakfasts, Airbnb’s, VRBO properties, and everything in between all over the U.S. so you’ll never be without a comfortable bed and clean shower.

Plus, these days most hotels offer free continental breakfasts at a minimum, so you’ll be well taken care of during your trip.

The only downside of living almost exclusively in hotels is the lack of a kitchen, which means you’ll likely find yourself eating at restaurants a lot more often which can really rack up your bills.

If you don’t want to sacrifice comfort and cleanliness but don’t want to break the bank either, then I highly recommend considering Airbnb or apartments on Booking.com.

It’s a great way to find reasonably priced accommodations that have everything you’re looking for. Also, if you’re traveling with a pet, I have found self-hosted to be a fantastic option, and in fact, it’s what we use every time we travel with our dog.

Renting a campervan is another fantastic option for heading out on a U.S. road trip. For starters, it can save you tons of money on lodging, as you can simply drive to your next destination and sleep right there in your vehicle.

You’ll just need to make sure to check if overnight parking is allowed at each place you stay.

Plus, you can often cook light meals right inside which saves you a ton of money on eating out! But, the real perk that is no matter what the weather looks like, you’ll be nice and dry come morning and bears are going to have a very hard time opening your van door.

The downside to van life is the initial outfitting of the van itself… it can be very expensive. Even renting a pre-outfitted van can cost upwards of hundreds of dollars per week, so you’ll want to get a quote for your rental period if this is something you’re considering.

If you decide to outfit your own van you can save a lot of money, but the van itself usually starts around $30k for a decent model.

Similar to camping, however, a van allows you to keep your schedule totally flexible since you can sleep practically anywhere that doesn’t have “no overnight parking” posted nearby making it a top contender when considering where to stay on a 3-week North American road trip.

✅ Book with Escape Campervans for the best price and experience

Last, but definitely not least, is RV life.

The stereotypical perspective of this option is that it’s primarily for the older generation, but that simply isn’t true. If you’re traveling with a larger group or simply want to do your U.S. road trip on the slower side, an RV is a great option.

It offers everything that a typical hotel can offer you, with the perks of a kitchen and being close to nature. It’s practically camping, van life, and hotels all wrapped up into one!

There are a few downsides to this option, however, including that RVs, like outfitted vans, can be outrageously expensive.

If you want to buy one, it’s almost like buying a small house without a yard. If you want to rent one, well… you might as well buy one!

But, as I said, if you have a big group that can split the cost, this is a great way to go cross-country road-tripping in the U.S. You may have some trouble finding a spot for everyone to sleep, but it will be well worth your efforts if you are hoping to live comfortably and casually.

This will almost entirely depend on what you’re hoping to eat on your trip and where you plan to stay.

If you’re camping, you’ll be more limited to whatever you can keep cold in your cooler and how many pots and pans you want to bring back and forth to the one dish sink at the campground. I will say that buying ice gets old very quickly, especially if you’re traveling in the summer months, so this is something to keep in mind if you almost always cook all of your meals from scratch.

If you’re living it up in a van or RV, it depends on how many dishes you want to do and how big your fresh gallon tank is. If you’re constantly having to find places to fill your water tank up, you may get used to a sandwich for lunch instead of something that creates a lot of dishes.

You’ll notice at the beginning of your trip that you’re far more excited and motivated to cook fun meals over a campfire and pull out pans for whatever you need. But, once you start week two and especially week three of this U.S. road trip, there’s a good chance you’ll start finding easier meals that you enjoy that don’t require a lot of clean up.

For us, we found sandwiches, soup, fruit, and beans to make up the bulk of our diet over the course of those 4 weeks. I primarily picked up pre-made food at the local supermarkets and we would eat that while we drove.

It doesn’t sound great, and I agree it wasn’t, but it got the job done and it saved us a ton of money.

At first, I was so excited to create these elaborate meals and after just one week, we decided that all of the extra work after a full day in the car simply wasn’t worth it.

You may find you agree or disagree, but I will say that over time you’ll want something that you can make for yourself.

If you try to stick to mainly fast food and restaurants, you’re going to eventually get tired of the pre-made food and especially the bill.

It’s a good idea to keep a healthy mix between making your own food and eating out so you don’t get too tired of one before the journey is over.

21 days may seem like a long time to pack for, but luckily pretty much everywhere you go will have plenty of opportunities for laundry services.

I found it extremely helpful when we were camping to book an Airbnb with a washer and dryer twice during our trip, so we only had to pack for about 10 days worth of clothing.

This kept our load light and prevented us from spending a lot of money on multiple washing sessions.

Pro Tip: If you’re trying to travel light with nothing but a backpack and a couple of pairs of shoes, then be sure to check out this minimalist packing list before your trip!

If this sounds like a good fit for you or something you would like to try, then try out the 10-day packing list below that works wonders for any 21-day USA road trip.

It includes everything you’ll need no matter the weather, so if you’re traveling in the harsher seasons of winter or spring you may need to add or take away some clothing.

I have also included the basic necessities you’ll need for camping, so feel free to omit those if you plan on outfitting a van, staying in an RV, or getting other accommodation rentals.

• Tent ( 2-4 person tents usually work well )
• 2 Tarps and Rope (one to tie above your tent and one to put below your tent when it rains)
• Sleeping Bags ( ensure they’re rated for cold weather )
• Headtorch (handy for just about everything!)
• Air pads (great if you’ll be camping for long periods of time)
• Camping Chairs (nothing too fancy, you don’t want them to take up a lot of room)
• Cooler (preferably one that holds ice for at least 24 hours)
• Portable Grill ( I use the one-burner Coleman propane stove )
• Pots/Pans/Plates/Cups/Utensils (use metal! It can go over an open flame and saves a lot of wasted single-use plastic. Most campgrounds across the U.S. have very limited recycling capabilities)
• Instant Coffee (perfect for when you’re trying to pack up and go)
• Sunscreen (SPF 30+) & Hat for sun protection
• Waterproof Boots
• Basic Hygiene Items (shampoo, conditioner, body wash, face wash, moisturizer, hairbrush, toothbrush & paste, floss, razor, tweezers, deodorant, etc.)
• Rain Jacket ( This Helly Hanson jacket is perfect )
• Hooded Sweatshirt or Fleece
• 1 Winter Jacket (if applicable)
• 1-2 Sweaters
• 2-3 Long Sleeves
• 2-3 T-Shirts
• 1-2 Pairs of Shorts
• 1-2 Pairs of Leggings
• 1 Pair of Jeans
• 1 Sleep Outfit
• 10 Pairs of Underwear
• 5-7 Pairs of Socks

When it comes to planning a 3-week road trip across the U.S., there are some things you’ll need to know ahead of time that may not be as obvious as you would hope.

Over the next two sections, I’m going to provide you with tips on how to plan your road trip itinerary as well as some safety tips that I learned along my route.

Don’t book anything until you’re 100% satisfied with your route and plans. It can be tempting to jump right in and secure your dates for Lake Louis Campground in Banff, but just ensure that your itinerary is exactly how you want it and everything that you’ve planned has availability before doing so.

Don’t take the itinerary I provided and assume it’s perfect for you. You may want to travel further south or north, increase or decrease your time in different areas, or skip somewhere altogether.

We used this route to relocate to Alaska for a few months, but we’ll be taking an entirely different route back to New England on the return trip to see the southern half of the country.

Do your research. I can’t emphasize this one enough!

Had we not researched the flooding that occurred in Yellowstone National Park in early 2022, we never would have known that the northern side of the park road was still closed to traffic which would add an extra 2 hours to our drive when we were heading north to Montana.

Always research current road conditions and keep up to date with events that could potentially interrupt your route or schedule.

Think about your interests first and your itinerary second. What do you want to do? What do you actually want to see? If you have no interest in being in the mountains and prefer big cities, then you can probably skip several of the national parks on this list.

Once you know what you want to do during your road trip, you can start thinking about your itinerary.

Have a general schedule in mind. Are you using this 21-day U.S. road trip to relocate to the West Coast, or are you hoping to return to the East Coast in as little as 3 weeks? This will majorly dictate how far you can go and how much time you spend in each place.

Don’t try to fit too much in. The U.S. is massive! Zigzagging your way north to south to hit the entire lower 48 before you go to Alaska will take months, not weeks.

Keep this in mind and don’t try to squeeze an extra city or two in if it’s going to take away from the rest of the places you really want to see.

Think about your budget ahead of time. This isn’t something you should start considering on week two after you’ve already spent far more than you were hoping for.

Make a spreadsheet and start considering your overall budget for food, gas, lodging, souvenirs, oil changes and car maintenance, and other incidentals that could occur (you lose your phone, perhaps) well before you depart.

Have your roles. If you’re traveling with a partner or friend, decide who will set up the tent while the other gets dinner going. This will make your life go far smoother after a 12-hour day in the car.

Get excited about the little things. There are parts of the U.S. that are just plain boring. And that’s okay! Embrace it.

Instead of getting caught up in the idea that every minute of this road trip has to be beautiful and exciting, enjoy the fact that you have no idea what may happen tomorrow and every new day is an adventure at this point in your life.

Don’t argue and have fun! This one seems obvious, but you’re going to take the wrong on-ramp at some point and have to backtrack a little.

This is a very normal part of road-tripping across the U.S. and there’s no point in wasting your time arguing about who was supposed to be looking at the map.

Next up, the safety tips! You may know how to change a tire (and you should before departing for this road trip), but there are some less obvious tips I have for you too.

Be prepared for inclement weather.

I left for my road trip at the end of July and it took me through August to reach Prudhoe Bay. When I was camping in Yellowstone National Park in mid-August, it dropped to about 45 degrees Fahrenheit at night.

The further north I went, the faster it dropped to as low as 30 degrees at night. It doesn’t matter when you’re traveling, nighttime temperatures are a whole new ball game that you need to be prepared for if you’re sleeping outside.

Don’t speed.

This is for your safety and others. It can be exciting, overwhelming, and scary all at the same time to go on a U.S. road trip, but it’s not worth getting in an accident. Take your time and enjoy the scenery.

Have a GPS that works without an internet connection.

No, your phone is not good enough. I can’t tell you how many times we didn’t have service on any of our phones (we have T-Mobile, Verizon, and AT&T), but our GPS still got us where we were going. It’s also a good idea to have an updated paper map or atlas in your car, as well.

Keep your car well stocked with supplies at all times.

You never know what may happen. You could blow a tire in the middle of the Dalton Highway with no services for 300 miles or you could break down in the middle of the Montana desert with no cell service.

Always ensure you have warm blankets, food, and water for at least 3 days in your car.

Ensure you have tires with good treads.

We figured out about 3 weeks into our drive when the rainy season began in Canada that our treads were no good and we were sliding all over the road.

We had to stop and get new tires as soon as we entered Alaska which not only cost more money than it should have, but it also took several hours of our time.

Do yourself a favor and ensure that everything on your vehicle is operating the way it should before you depart!

Below are some of your most-asked questions that I’ve provided some unique answers to based on my personal experiences and what I believe may be a good fit for other people.

3 Week Road Trip across America Cost

Now for the question that you’ve likely wanted to know the answer to this entire time… “how much did this U.S. road trip cost you?” Well, here’s the breakdown for our 4-week itinerary:

Campgrounds and Airbnb’s – $1,580 Food & Alcohol – $150-$200 per week ($700 total) Gas – $55 per tank (about $1100 total)

We also had a dog with us which increased our costs slightly in terms of the Airbnbs that we had to rent, her food, etc. In terms of gas, this is when gas prices were at an all-time high practically, so we were spending far more on gas than we normally would with our Subaru Forester.

We anticipated the trip to cost around $800 for gas and tolls, and it likely added up to around $1200-$1300 with tolls in the long run due to the $5+ per gallon gas prices.

The learning curve with this is always to anticipate your road trip to cost more and be pleasantly surprised if it costs less but comfortable if it costs what you expected.

How Long Does it Take to Road Trip around America?

This entirely depends on where you’re starting and ending your road trip, but typically 6-8 weeks is a good amount of time to see the major sights across the whole country while still having some time to enjoy yourself.

This is, of course, if you’re hoping to get across most of the states in the country.

If you want to spend more time in certain places, it may take several months or even longer is recommended depending on how much ground you would like to cover and how much you want to drive each day.

Along our U.S. road trip, we met someone who was visiting Alaska as their 49th state, and they had left in March! That means they had been road-tripping for over 4 months to see almost all of the U.S.

Keep this in mind if you’re hoping to check out numerous states and want to spend a good amount of time in each.

If you just want to drive between the major sites in each state and don’t mind skipping popular hiking trails and sights along the way, then 3-4 weeks will suffice.

Where Should I Go in the U.S. for 3 Weeks?

If you only have 3 weeks for a North American road trip, then it’s best to keep your route somewhat limited. Particularly, if you plan on returning to where you started in 3 weeks’ time.

If you are leaving from the East Coast and are planning on being home within 3 weeks, then I wouldn’t go further west than Colorado.

But, if you have 3 weeks to go in one direction, then you could definitely reach California or even Alaska in that time.

Where you go will entirely depend on your preferences, but you can use the itinerary I provided to get some ideas on where may work best for you!

Pro Tip: It’s going to be warmer the further south you go and cooler the fourth north you go, regardless of when you leave.

The Wrap-Up: 3-Week North American Road Trips

Overall, U.S. road trips are one of the best ways to break out of your comfort zone and start traveling again.

Whether you’re planning this trip for just yourself, you and a partner, you and a friend, or even your entire extended family, this 3-week road trip across North America certainly has some new adventures in store for you.

Author Bio Contributed by Emily of Emily Embarks .

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Lamicall Car Headrest Tablet Holder - [3 in 1 Extension Arm] Adjustable Tablet Car Mount for Back Seat, Road Trip Essentials for Kids, for 4.7-11" Tablet Like iPad Pro, Air, Mini, Galaxy, Fire, Black

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• 【 Unique Biaxial Extension Arm】Twist the arm in different angles allowing you to change the view distance, you can swing the tablet in the middle of two seats so both passengers can watch. The articulating arm is easy to pull out or retract as needed, kids can also operate easily. Great for enjoying entertainment with family and friends during car trip🚗.
• 【 Easy Installation & 360° Rotation】 Normally it only takes 3s to install the car tablet holder to the backseat and 2s to put your tablet in, no tools are needed. The 360 degree rotating ball allows you to find the best view angle so kids don't have to look down the whole time, avoid neck pain. Nice baby travel essentials!
• 【 Devices Compatibility】The universal headrest tablet mount is suitable for 4.7 - 11" devices, such as 2024/ 2022/ 2021 iPad Pro 11, 2024 iPad Air, 2022 iPad 10.9/ iPad 10th Generation, iPad Air 6/ 5/ 4, iPad Pro 10.5/ 9.7, iPad Mini 6/ 5, Galaxy Tab S9/ S8/ S7, Kindle, Fire HD, iPhone 15 Pro Max, 14, 13, 12, 11, Xs, other smartphones and tablets. ❗The max thickness the clamp can fit is 0.67" ( 17mm). ❗4.7 - 11" refers to the diagonal length of the tablet screen, the suitable width of screen is 5.5 - 8.6".
• 【 Sturdy and Safe】 Out of a considerate thought, the hook's depth on both ends of the tablet car mount is deeper, the headrest rod which is made of high-quality metal also help greatly increase the stability during driving. The anti-slip rubber pads protect the tablet from scratching and slipping, keep your device safe.
• 【 Wider Headrest Compatible】 Compared to old version, this new version can fit headrest with narrower rod distance. The adapted distance range of headrest rods is 2.8" ( 72mm) - 5.9" ( 150mm), like SUV, Pickup truck, Sedan and more. ❗ Can't fit the backseat without headrest rods, like Volvo.

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Customers like the maneuverability, fit and value of the portable electronic device mount. They mention that it moves and turns, it holds a standard size phone and an iPad well. They are also satisfied with versatility, ease of installation, and performance. That said, opinions are mixed on quality and stability.

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Customers are satisfied with the performance of the portable electronic device mount. For example, they mention it works well, it's easy to install, and it'll hold their device. Some say it works perfectly for long rides with multiple kids.

"...It also works beautifully with a car organizer on the back of our seats because of the arm...." Read more

"...Purchased for a long drive over a vacation weekend and worked great so far . Only used once so far. It’s easy to install and use...." Read more

"...on the headrests of a Ford F150 and Ford Explorer, and its performance has been stellar ...." Read more

"...It is installed and working well so far . I will update if the clips fail, but I believe it may have just been a defective earlier batch...." Read more

Customers find the installation of the portable electronic device mount easy. They mention that it's easy to hook in and fit both size tablets. Some say that they were able to install it by themselves and that it makes it easy for even their youngest to reach their iPad to watch. They also say that it moves smooth and that their son can use it easily.

"...It is easy to set up and use and feels real secure. I am impressed with the quality for the price...." Read more

"...Only used once so far. It’s easy to install and use . So far I am pleased with product. Need more time to see how it holds up with more use." Read more

" Super easy to set up , stays secure even while driving...." Read more

" Set up is easy ...." Read more

Customers like the fit of the portable electronic device mount. They say it's sturdy, holds a standard size phone, and the Galaxy S9 ultra tablet. It's also multi size compatible and holds an iPad Pro. Some customers also mention that it fits well on their QX60 car seats.

"Super easy to set up, stays secure even while driving. Fits my car perfectly and has a wide range of motion for both my kids to enjoy in the back..." Read more

"...The item did great holding the item but the headrest on the seat had to stay down in order for the holder not to slope down making it hard to watch..." Read more

"... Fits well on my QX60 car seats . If you are here reading this review, wondering if you should buy it - answer is YES!" Read more

"I order four of these and I absolutely love them!! They fit my kids tablets when their big bulky cases and I am able to push my daughter tablet to..." Read more

Customers find the portable electronic device mount versatile. They say it's perfect for road trips, traveling, and with toddlers. They also say it has a good grip and is easy to move around.

"This contraption is perfect for long car rides with kids. It is compact enough so it’s not bulky and in the way...." Read more

"Excellent quality!!! Perfect for long trips " Read more

"...Overall the product works well and was great for our roadtrip holding the iPad!" Read more

"Very sturdy and easy to move around , just make sure it’s tightened all the way! Our son likes to fall asleep to noise so this helped out a lot!" Read more

Customers appreciate the value of the portable electronic device mount. They mention it's durable, affordable, and impressed with the quality for the price. Some say it'll be a great purchase and a cost-effective way to mount an iPad in a truck for a long road trip.

"...I am impressed with the quality for the price ...." Read more

"...Definitely worth the price !" Read more

"My toddler loves this, I love this! Definitely worth the money ! Only thing I can complain about is it’s a little hard to get devices in and out...." Read more

" Quite ok at this price ." Read more

Customers like the maneuverability of the portable electronic device mount. They say it moves and turns, is sturdy, and can pivot or move it around with the arm as needed. They also appreciate the wide range of motion and the ability to move the tablet back and forth. Overall, most are happy with the maneuverable design.

"...Fits my car perfectly and has a wide range of motion for both my kids to enjoy in the back seat. Definitely worth the price!" Read more

"Set up is easy. It does move with ease , as in my daughter is watching her show & if it pauses I can move the mount so I can unpause show without..." Read more

"...Easy to install, easy to connect the iPad into, moves easily , sturdy. Recommend it!" Read more

"...It's nice that it swivels around when you have more than one kid so they can both see the iPad when we go on longer trips...." Read more

Customers are mixed about the quality of the tablet holder. Some mention it's one of the most sturdy tablet holders they've found, well made, and durable. However, others say that it broke after a week, wasn't the sturdiest, or tightest of tablet holders expected.

"This is the BEST thing we ever purchased for our kids! It’s well made . We ordered two of these for our boys in the backseat...." Read more

"...LOVED IT so much I bought a second one… and it BROKE 38 DAYS after install never having been used… NOT EVEN ONCE...." Read more

"...This is the perfect option to hang their tablets from the headrests so that the kids can eat and watch their tablets at the same time...." Read more

"...The pieces were still stuck to the headrest and seemed to have just snapped . We had an amazing fire in it at the time...." Read more

Customers are mixed about the stability of the mount. Some mention it holds their tablet well, while others say it wobbles up and down with slight bumps. The mount's design ensures it stays firmly in place, alleviating any concerns. However, some customers say the position is not so stable, and the tablet to shake and droop.

"...It is easy to set up and use and feels real secure . I am impressed with the quality for the price...." Read more

"Super easy to set up, stays secure even while driving ...." Read more

"...The pieces were still stuck to the headrest and seemed to have just snapped. We had an amazing fire in it at the time...." Read more

"...The mount's design ensures it stays firmly in place , alleviating any concerns about it becoming a hazard in the event of an accident...." Read more

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Biden travels to Europe to commemorate the defeat of dictators

WASHINGTON — President Joe Biden leaves the campaign trail this week and flies to France for the 80th anniversary of D-Day, where he’ll give speeches touting American alliances that beat back dictatorships bent on world conquest.

Biden is in a long string of presidents who have delivered that sort of message over the years as they built and sustained a Western bloc rooted in free markets, democratic governance and individual freedoms.

As yet unknown is whether he'll be the last.

The race between Biden and Republican Donald Trump is a toss-up at this stage, and if Trump returns to power, there are no assurances he would keep the basic pillars of the post-World War II order intact.

As president, Trump considered pulling out of the NATO alliance , which has been a bulwark against Russian aggression since the depths of the Cold War, according to his former national security adviser John Bolton. A senior Trump White House official said in an interview that Trump came within a "wisp" of dropping out of NATO at a summit meeting in Brussels in 2018.

More recently, Trump said he would let Russia to do " whatever the hell they want " to European countries that didn’t spend enough on military defense.

The trip is a chance for Biden to draw policy distinctions with his opponent while also demonstrating to skeptical voters that, at 81, he retains the stamina and acuity to negotiate with his counterparts, some of whom are decades younger.

His speeches will inevitably offer an implicit rebuke of the “America First” approach that Trump championed in office.

“This is a very important opportunity for President Biden to reaffirm our NATO alliance and emphasize that the world is really on the cusp of a turning point,” said Sen. Chris Van Hollen, D-Md., a member of the Foreign Relations Committee. “We are living through the middle of the fight for democracy and freedom over authoritarianism.”

Biden will speak in Normandy on Thursday, the anniversary of the June 6, 1944, beach landings that presaged the liberation of Europe and the defeat of the Nazis.

He’ll speak again Friday at Pointe du Hoc, where U.S. Army Rangers scaled sheer cliffs to take out German guns and gain a toehold on France’s northern coast. A focus of Biden’s remarks will be the defense of “freedom and democracy,” according to the White House.

There is a certain political symmetry to the speech. In 1984, President Ronald Reagan also spoke at Pointe du Hoc while he was running for re-election. He gave a memorable address that built to the rhetorical crescendo: “These are the boys of Pointe du Hoc.”

Reagan went on to win re-election in a landslide over Democrat Walter Mondale.

“Biden will probably try to hit those same notes that unify everybody,” said James Melville, a former U.S. ambassador to Estonia who spent 34 years working for the State Department. “I’m sure the political folks are looking at that [Reagan’s speech] and thinking how do they steal some of that magic.”

After meetings in Paris on Saturday with French President Emmanuel Macron, Biden is scheduled to return home. Days later he’ll leave again for southern Italy, where he will attend a Group of Seven summit of the world’s most advanced economies.

Biden will be in friendly company in his back-to-back European journeys. He has forged respectful ties with many of his foreign counterparts over a 50-year-career in public office honing his diplomatic skills.

By contrast, Trump’s overseas appearances were more fraught, sometimes culminating in feuds with allies and bonding moments with authoritarian rulers.

After he said he wouldn't sign a joint statement on common values with other G7 nations in 2018, Trump voiced displeasure with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, tweeting that a news conference he had given was " very dishonest & weak ."

“He got into spats with the Canadians,” Sen. Chris Coons, D-Del., a member of the Foreign Relations Committee, said in an interview. “The Canadians are the nicest people in the world! How do you make the Canadians mad?”

Leaders consider hard national interests when they conduct foreign policy, and whether they prefer Trump or Biden on a personal level, they grasp that come Jan. 20, they may dealing with one or the other.

The uncertainty surrounding the presidential race is the backdrop for Biden’s meetings with officials who will be watching for clues as to how the election might go.

Keith Kellogg, a senior national security official in the Trump White House, noted that in the run-up to the election, various foreign officials have come to see Trump. Among them have been Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán and former British prime minister David Cameron, who now is the country’s top diplomat.

“What you’re going to see is European leaders hedging their bets,” Kellogg said in an interview. “You have former presidents and prime ministers talking to President Trump. They’re wondering what it is going to happen in the election and where they’re going to go.”

Asked whether Trump would withdraw from NATO in a new term, Kellogg said, “I don’t expect him to do something like that,” adding that Trump “does expect them to live up to what they have promised to do.”

Emphasizing that he wasn’t speaking for Trump, Kellogg suggested an alternative arrangement in which the U.S. might agree to protect NATO countries that contribute at least 2% of their gross domestic product to defense. Under such a "tiered" system, countries that failed to meet the threshold wouldn't be entitled to such protection from the U.S., said Kellogg, who is seen as potential defense secretary in a Trump administration.

Nothing enhances a president's prestige like a foreign trip. He arrives in his magnificent blue-and-white plane. Often he is greeted on the tarmac by bands, performers and smiling counterparts grateful to see the commander in chief of a global superpower.

It makes for compelling imagery in an election season, but much can go wrong. If Biden trips at any point, if he slurs his speech or —exhausted by the time change — if he appears feeble or uncertain, he would rekindle doubts about whether he's up to the job.

Whatever President George H.W. Bush might have accomplished during a visit to Japan in 1992 — the year he lost re-election — the takeaway for most Americans was that, ailing, he vomited at a dinner hosted by the prime minister.

William Cohen is a former Republican senator from Maine and defense secretary in President Bill Clinton's administration. He is a friend of Biden's who plans to vote for him and do what he can to help him win in November.

During the coming trip, Cohen said, Biden "has the burden of persuading them [world leaders] that he can carry the vote here. He has to present himself as a more vigorous, dynamic person than he has to date.

"The real issue for them [other leaders] is can he persuade the American people that it's important for him to win," Cohen continued in an interview. "And if he can't persuade the American people, then they're going to take their bets and put them elsewhere."

Peter Nicholas is a senior national political reporter for NBC News.

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2024 MLB All-Star Game: Voting for starters is open as top stars vie for trip to Midsummer Classic

Balloting for the 94th mlb all-star game is underway.

Voting for the starters in the 2024 All-Star Game is now underway. Polls opened Wednesday at noon, with superstars including Mookie Betts, Aaron Judge, Jose Altuve, Bryce Harper and more all vying for their place in Arlington next month.

You can vote on MLB.com here . 

The first phase of voting takes place from June 5 to June 27. During this time, voters are permitted up to five ballots per day. As always, pitchers are excluded, each league has a designated hitter and the three outfield positions are generic (as opposed to picking a specific left fielder, center fielder and right fielder).  

MLB will provide voting updates multiple times before whittling the field down to two finalists at each position (six outfielders) and resetting the vote totals to zero before a final run determines the starter at each position for the All-Star Game. The exception is that the top vote getter from each league in phase one of the balloting automatically gets the starting spot and doesn't need to beat another player in phase two. If the top vote getter is an outfielder, we'll only get four finalists for two spots. 

The second phase of voting runs June 30 to July 3 and voters are restricted to just one ballot per day. 

The winners will be announced the night of July 3.

The All-Star Game this season takes place on Tuesday, July 16, meaning the popular Home Run Derby falls on Monday the 15th. 

The 2024 Midsummer Classic will be held at Globe Life Field in Arlington, Texas, home of the defending World Series champion Texas Rangers . This will be the first All-Star Game in Globe Life Field, but it's the second hosted by the Rangers. They also had the game in 1995, a 3-2 NL win behind MVP Jeff Conine.

A fun trivia nugget: The last time a World Series champion hosted the next All-Star Game was 1939, when the Yankees hosted it after winning the 1938 World Series. 

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7 Best Cruises for Singles in 2024

Updated : May 29, 2024

AAA Travel Editors

Table of contents.

• Celebrity Millennium: Bali, Malaysia and Thailand
• Celebrity Apex: Norwegian Fjords
• Celebrity Summit: Grand Heartland Adventure
• Celebrity Edge: Taste of Luxury
• Disney Wish: Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral
• Oceania Cruises: In the Path of Cartier — Boston to Montreal
• Oceania Riviera: Ancient World Wonders — Athens to Istanbul

Plan Your Cruise With AAA

With many cruise lines now catering to the single crowd, going on a cruise as a single adult can be a great way to meet interesting people to make new friends, new connections and lifelong memories.

No matter what you envision from your dream singles cruise, you can find a ship and a series of destinations that will create unforgettable memories. There are a lot of options to explore, however and the sheer range of choices can quickly feel overwhelming. To help, we've highlighted several of the best cruises for singles. Keep reading to learn what, exactly, sets these expeditions apart. 

1. Celebrity Millennium: Bali, Malaysia and Thailand

Many singles gravitate towards exciting adventures in exotic destinations such as Bali, Malaysia and Thailand, which hold appeal simply because they provide such distinct scenery and such powerful cultural experiences.

Not all singles are willing or prepared to navigate these destinations on their own, however and this is where the Celebrity Millennium comes into play: an upscale cruise removes the hassle of planning and, instead, encourages you to relax in style.

This particular Celebrity Millennium adventure spans nearly two weeks, incorporating a unique blend of serene island adventures, cosmopolitan exploration and meaningful temple visits. Onboard, globally inspired menus and resort-style lounges are to be expected, along with plenty of adults-only spaces that will appeal to singles. 

2. Celebrity Apex: Norwegian Fjords

If Norway's iconic fjords are on your bucket list, you can't afford to miss this awe-inspiring Celebrity Apex trip . Departing from Southampton, the eight-night cruise meanders along the coast of Norway, hitting pleasant spots such as Geiranger or Kristiansand for spectacular scenery and outdoor adventures. Side trips are available and, with up to ten hours docked, there is plenty of time to explore at your own pace.

Accommodation options abound and, when traveling alone, the staterooms' king-size mattresses feel extra spacious. An adults-only solarium will appeal to relaxation-oriented solo travelers, while abundant dining and entertainment options make it easy to find and connect with new friends. 

3. Celebrity Summit: Grand Heartland Adventure

If you're struggling to choose between glamorous onboard experiences and outdoorsy experiences on land, you're in luck: Celebrity Summit provides the best of both worlds with its various Cruisetour offerings. There are many excellent options that depart from Vancouver, Anchorage or Fairbanks — but the Grand Heartland Adventure is worth considering if you crave something new.

During the Grand Heartland Cruisetour, you'll explore the stunning Inside Passage by cruise ship, before docking in adventure-oriented destinations such as Juneau and Sitka. From there, you'll continue to observe national treasures such as the Hubbard Glacier. Further exploration takes place aboard a glass-domed railcar and even a riverboat.

There's also a lot to experience onboard. The AquaClass stateroom represents a true oasis for single travelers, but the exclusive cocktail lounge and martini bar also warrant a visit. With nearly two weeks of cruising and exploration, you'll have plenty of time to unwind on your own but can also form fast friendships with similarly adventurous travelers. 

4. Celebrity Edge: Taste of Luxury

Cruises for singles over 50 often emphasize the finer things in life, like elevated cuisine or exquisite wines. These sophisticated details are in abundant supply aboard the Celebrity Edge, which offers a decidedly elegant experience with its Taste of Luxury tour. Although often frequented by retired couples, Celebrity Edge's trips work well as singles cruises.

Available for three or four nights, this remarkable journey begins in Sydney and primarily emphasizes curated on-board experiences. That being said, there are enticing opportunities to explore while docked in Tasmania. With such glamorous suites, restaurants and clubs on board, however, the best attractions can be enjoyed without ever leaving this luxury cruise ship. 

5. Disney Wish: Bahamian Cruise from Port Canaveral

Don't assume that Disney cruise adventures are only for kids or families. If you are a proud Disney adult, you can make amazing memories aboard a thematic cruise for singles. This is a popular vacation among theme park enthusiasts, who enjoy a dose of Disney magic while also finding valuable opportunities to indulge and relax.

Disney Wish's three-night Bahamian cruise is also an excellent option for singles who crave a sea-based experience but only have a few days to spare. Yes, young travelers will be around, but there are plenty of adult-only spaces, including sports bars, dance clubs, dedicated pools and even an onboard spa and salon. Musicals, 3D films and fireworks encourage you to embrace your inner child. 

6. Oceania Cruises: In the Path of Cartier — Boston to Montreal

As we've mentioned, smaller ships provide some of the best cruises for singles over 50. Not everyone desires a river-based trip, however and with Oceania Cruises , there is no need to choose between exclusivity and ocean liner grandeur.

A signature experience can be found aboard Oceania Cruises' iconic Nautica ship, which is calming, yet elegant. Echoing the journey of the famed explorer Jacques Cartier, this tour provides a powerful introduction to Quebec, Nova Scotia, Newfoundland and New Brunswick.

The land-based excursions are highly educational and, of course, beautiful to behold, but there's also a lot to love on board. Belgian chocolate, Bulgari amenities and turndown service await, with many accommodations also providing spectacular views. Open-seating dining makes it easy to interact with other vacationers while wine-tasting and guest lectures promise plenty of onboard enrichment. 

7. Oceania Riviera: Ancient World Wonders — Athens to Istanbul

Another appealing option for singles who prefer slightly smaller ships, Oceania Cruises' Ancient World Wonders tour provides stops at some of the world's most iconic locations, such as Santorini and Corfu. Adventures in Dubrovnik and Istanbul can also be expected. On board this remarkable vessel, you'll gaze in awe at the Lalique Grand Staircase and, in general, enjoy a refined ambiance.

Be prepared to try new flavors and forms of expression as you explore unique offerings such as the Artist Loft and Culinary Center. Deep relaxation awaits at the Aquamar Spa or within your luxuriously contemporary stateroom or suite. This ten-night voyage provides plenty of time to lose yourself in the grandeur of the ship and the treasures of Greece, Montenegro, Croatia and Turkey.

Join the over a million people who are AAA members and start planning your cruise today. Dream up the perfect trip with our Trip Canvas research tool and use your membership to get the best discounts on hotels , rental cars and entertainment tickets.

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More From Forbes

Father’s day gift guide 2024: the best travel gifts for new dads.

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Traveling with little ones can be a day at the beach, thanks to these thoughtful gifts.

Just because he’s become a dad doesn’t mean your favorite traveler has to also become a homebody. Sure, it can be tougher to get around with a little person pretty much attached to him but it can be done more enjoyably than he might think.

We’ve found a variety of gifts that make travel so much easier with babies and toddlers that he won’t want to go anywhere without them – both the gifts and the kids – ever again.

Doona Liki Trike S5

He already loves and trusts Doona because of their must-have all-in-one car seat & stroller travel system so he will be thrilled to see that they’ve created the world’s most compact folding trike. Designed for children 10 months to 3 years old, it transforms into five different modes so parents can push little ones in it and leave older kids to ride on their own. So much more fun than a stroller, it will get him and his mini me through the airport without tears. It then folds up easily to toss in an overhead bin. Price: $300

Graco Turn2Me 3-in-1 Car Seat

Getting little ones in and out of car seats can be challenging but Graco has changed the game with a rotating feature that will make Dad’s life so much easier, especially if he’s planning to make frequent stops on a road trip. Of course, safety comes first and this seat protects kids on all sides and can be used rear or forward facing or as a booster. It also has a headrest that adjusts to 10 different positions to keep children safe and comfortable as they grow. Price: $349

7 AM K-Poncho

One of the best inventions ever, this baby carrier cover is perfect for dads headed to coolcation destinations. With its water repellent outer shell and plush lining, it keeps babies cozy, whether they’re facing Dad or the world. It even has hand slits so he can hold on to them. The cover also adapts to all strollers and car seats, making it indispensable at home or away. Price: $100

As Russia s Armored Vehicles Get Worse Ukraine s American Made M 2s Destroy Them Faster

Microsoft issues new warning for 70% of all windows users, google slashes pixel 8 pro price in a major new promotion.

Dagne Dover Indi Neoprene Diaper Backpack

A diaper bag is a new parent essential but Dad is probably more interested in practicality than cuteness. Luckily, this one has both in spades so anyone will feel good about carrying it around, even on the most luxury vacation — especially in sophisticated black. It easily clips onto a stroller and features lots of pockets, pouches and even a mini changing pad. Plus, it features a dedicated safe space for his laptop so he can get some work done while baby sleeps. Price: $215

Regalo Play Mat with Travel Case

Whether they’re waiting for a flight or spending the night in a hotel, this cushy foam mat gives Dad a clean, safe place to put little ones down. It’s even waterproof so he can use it outdoors and clean it right up afterwards. Older kids will get a kick out of the design, with its roads and parks, and will enjoy playing with their own toy cars and trucks on it. Babies will just find it soft and comfortable and dads will be glad they can give their arms a rest. Price: $49.99

Magnetic Me Lake You A Lot Grow With Me Convertible Coverall

Having to change a baby on a plane or at a rest stop is way easier with one of these adorable, magnetized rompers. Made of super soft, breathable and temperature regulating Tencel modal, it features a magnetic closure, which means no snaps and zippers that can take forever to do properly. It also has foldover cuffs to keep little hands and feet cozy on over-air conditioned flights. You can choose from dozens of cute prints but this one is perfect for spending long weekends at the lake. Price: $40

KeaBabies Baby Car Seat Mirror

Rear facing car seats are safest for babies but, if Dad is driving alone with his little one, it can be disconcerting not to be able to see what’s going on back there. This shatterproof mirror is a game-changer, letting him keep his mind on the road while keeping an eye on his precious cargo. Price $19.96

Looky Lou Bundle

Vacations offer lots of cute photo ops but, let’s face it, babies are not always the most cooperative subjects. Thanks to the innovative Looky Lou, all Dad has to do is clip this cute little rattle to his phone and suddenly everyone’s looking in the right direction and smiling. The bundle comes with a board book introducing little ones to Lou the lion so they’ll be especially happy to see him whenever Dad feels like capturing the moment. Price: $29

Keep Going First Aid Kit Bundle

Because kids are unpredictable and accidents happen, give Dad some peace of mind with this trio of different sized first aid kits to prepare him for anything. He can keep one in the car, toss one in the diaper bag, pack one in the luggage. Well organized and easy to access, the kits include everything from bandages and ointments to nosebleed plugs, tick removers and burn gels. Hopefully he’ll never have to use it but, if he does, it will absolutely be the gift he’s most thankful for. Price: $124.97

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Friday’s preholiday travel breaks the record for the most airline travelers screened at US airports

Travelers move through Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport ahead of Memorial Day, Friday, May 24, 2024, in Atlanta.(AP Photo/Mike Stewart)

Travelers walk through Salt Lake City International Airport Friday, May 24, 2024, in Salt Lake City. A record number of Americans are expected to travel over the 2024 Memorial Day holiday. (AP Photo/Rick Bowmer)

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ATLANTA (AP) — A record was broken ahead of the Memorial Day weekend for the number of airline travelers screened at U.S. airports, the Transportation Security Administration said Saturday.

More than 2.9 million travelers were screened at U.S. airports on Friday, surpassing a previous record set last year on the Sunday after Thanksgiving, according to the transportation security agency.

“Officers have set a new record for most travelers screened in a single day!” the TSA tweeted. “We recommend arriving early.”

The third busiest day on record was set on Thursday when just under 2.9 million travelers were screened at U.S. airports.

Memorial Day Weekend

• The history: 5 things to know about the holiday , including its evolution and controversies
• Travel: Crowds and high prices met travelers on the busiest day of the holiday weekend
• On the menu: Try this recipe for smoky chicken wings or for something lighter, update these classic side dishes
• What’s open? Check this list of stores and more before you head out
• Now playing: Here are the movies coming to the box office this weekend and beyond

In Atlanta, the world’s busiest airport had its busiest day ever. Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport broke a traffic record on Thursday when 111,000 passengers, airlines crew and airport employees were screened at security checkpoints. The second busiest day followed on Friday when 109,960 people were screened, according to the TSA.

With 104.6 million passengers, the Atlanta airport was the busiest in the world last year, according to Airports Council International.

U.S. airlines expect to carry a record number of passengers this summer. Their trade group estimates that 271 million travelers will fly between June 1 and August 31, breaking the record of 255 million set last summer .

AAA predicted this will be the busiest start-of-summer weekend in nearly 20 years, with 43.8 million people expected to roam at least 50 miles from home between Thursday and Monday — 38 million of them taking vehicles.

The annual expression of wanderlust that accompanies the start of the summer travel season is happening at a time when Americans tell pollsters they are worried about the economy and the direction of the country.

In what had long been celebrated every May 30 to honor America’s fallen soldiers, Memorial Day officially became a federal holiday in 1971, observed on the last Monday in May.

Jason Redman, a retired Navy SEAL who fought in Iraq and Afghanistan, told The Associated Press last year that he honors the friends he’s lost. Thirty names are tattooed on his arm “for every guy that I personally knew that died.”

National Safety Month 2024

Please  download  and share the free safety materials from NSC including a poster, social media kit , animated graphics, 5-minute safety talks, games, articles and more – plus NSC members get additional exclusive resources. Visit the  NIOSH website ,  eNews ,  blog , and  social media accounts  to stay safe this month and all year long.

Week 1: Safety Engagement

Both employers and employees must be engaged in safety. Working together, employers and employees can develop policies and procedures to identify, monitor, mitigate, and eliminate work-related hazards. The NIOSH Total Worker Health ® workbook, Fundamentals of Total Worker Health Approaches: Essential Elements for Advancing Worker Safety, Health, and Well-Being can help workplaces:

• Provide a baseline of where an organization is on the path to worker well-being.
• Identify initial steps to improve workforce safety, health, and well-being.
• Measure an organization’s progress.

The Small Business Handbook provides small business employers with workplace safety and health information. The handbook summarizes the benefits of an effective safety and health program, provides self-inspection checklists for employers to identify workplace hazards, and reviews key workplace safety and health resources for small businesses.

NIOSH provides multiple trainings, tools, and activities to encourage employee and employer engagement in safety.

When it comes to safety engagement , communication is key at all levels of an organization. Safety+Health ® magazine, the flagship publication of the National Safety Council, provides helpful articles to address this important topic including:

• Harness Team Spirit to Energize Safety
• Difficult Conversations: Simple Steps to Make Them Easier
• The Power of Influence

The magazine also includes a My Story section as well as an On the Safe Side podcast series . The Council’s Safety is Personal video series shares the stories of leaders including what sparked their passion for safety, and how they live out the mission of saving lives in their workplaces every day.

Part of communicating the importance of safety is also knowing and sharing the statistics and research – the why people should care about safety. The Council’s Injury Facts® website is a wealth of information. Learn more by attending a free June 5 webinar Injury Facts : Data You Can Count On . Also, check out white papers from the NSC research team.

Taking part in activities and training are also essential to building engagement around safety. The Council encourages all workers to take the SafeAtWork pledge to show their commitment to safety. NSC offers a variety of training opportunities and events , including a new free eLearning course on Naloxone for Suspected Opioid Overdose . The more touchpoints we have with workers in all positions, the greater impact can be made in improving safety engagement.

Week 2: Roadway Safety

Motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of work-related deaths in the United States and the 1st or 2nd leading cause of death in every major industry group. [1]   The NIOSH Center for Motor Vehicle Safety conducts research and develops strategies to prevent work-related motor vehicle crashes and resulting injuries. Driver fatigue is a major workplace safety risk. The good news: a fatigue risk management system can help employers and workers reduce the risks of driver fatigue. Learn more about preventing driver fatigue on the   Driver Fatigue on the Job website.

Forty-four percent of the occupational fatalities at road construction sites involved a worker struck-by a vehicle in a work zone. [2]   Struck-by injuries are the leading cause of nonfatal injuries and second most common cause of fatalities among construction workers. From 2011 to 2022, there were 1,462 fatal occupational injuries that occurred at road construction sites . 2 The 2024  National Safety Stand-Down to Prevent Struck-by Incidents  highlighted the use of Internal Traffic Control Plans to help protect workers in roadway work zones. Motor vehicle-related incidents are also a leading cause of line-of-duty deaths for law enforcement officers in the United States. [3]  In the last 10 years, on average, one officer per week has been killed on our nation’s roads. 3 These deaths and injuries are preventable. The NIOSH  Law Enforcement Motor Vehicle Safety  website offers resources and prevention strategies for all motor vehicle-related incidents including the  Officer Road Code Toolkit .

NSC estimates 44,450 people died in motor vehicle crashes in 2023. With crashes being the leading cause of workplace death, the choices we make behind the wheel can improve roadway safety for us all. NSC encourages drivers to share the road responsibly by following these safety tips:

• Prepare before you go: Vehicle owners should check the oil, put air in the tires, and check for and repair open recalls to make sure their vehicles are safe for driving
• Buckle up:  Lack of seat belt use is a top cause of fatalities in crashes – buckle up, while also making sure you have  appropriate car seats installed correctly
• Designate a sober driver or arrange alternate transportation:  Alcohol is only one cause of impaired driving – drugs, including opioids, cannabis and some over-the-counter medicines, can cause drowsiness, alter visual functions, and affect mental judgment and motor skills
• Slow down:  Speeding is a factor in more than a  quarter of all traffic fatalities – drive the speed limit or below it if conditions dictate
• Drive distraction-free: Thousands have died in car crashes involving cell phone use – put your phones away and #JustDrive
• Look before you lock: Pediatric vehicular heatstroke is still the leading cause of non-crash motor vehicle-related fatality for children – always check your back seat for children or animals when you reach your destination, especially as approximately 25% of these deaths have occurred at the parent or caregiver’s place of work
• Demand safer roads and safer speeds: Join the Road to Zero Coalition to learn about the Safe System approach on road safety

Some employers may not be aware they have a fleet and need to follow the proper safety protocols. Unfortunately, not all fleet drivers are well-trained. Any worker who drives for work should be considered a fleet driver. Check out this webinar on the Top Three Things to Know When Managing a Fleet .

Week 3 Risk Reduction

One of the best ways to prevent and control occupational injuries, illnesses, and fatalities is to “design out” or minimize hazards and risks. NIOSH leads a national initiative called Prevention through Design (PtD) whose purpose is to promote this concept and highlight its importance in all business decisions.

Exposure assessment plays a central role in risk management.  NIOSH’s Exposure Assessment Program provides national and international leadership in the development and use of effective exposure assessment strategies and tools to prevent work-related illness and injury.

According to Injury Facts , in 2022, preventable work deaths totaled 4,695, and workplace medically consulted injuries totaled 4.53 million underscoring the importance of risk reduction . Tried and true injury prevention approaches like hazard recognition, job safety analysis and risk assessment are crucial to curbing workplace injuries and deaths.

Further, understanding the value of workplace safety and health is too often an exercise in waiting until an incident – or even a tragedy – occurs. Yet the value of safety is an increasingly multi-dimensional concept due to changing trends and dynamics well beyond physical risk. Check out the Council’s research on the New Value of Safety: From ESG to the Whole Person , which highlights three organizational concepts that generate a broad value and drive a holistic approach to safety management for highly embedded and emerging risks, including:

• Human and Organizational Performance (HOP)
• Optimizing work design and improving working conditions
• Safeguarding and advancing the mental health of workers
• Preventing injury and fatality
• Addressing psychological safety
• Environment, Social and Governance (ESG), which covers several initiatives shaping modern safety excellence, including diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI)

The Council also offers several programs and initiatives addressing top occupation safety risks, including:

• MSD Solutions Lab
• Respond Ready Workplace
• Campbell Institute
• Work to Zero

Check out these programs for free resources and research to help reduce risk in your organization.

Week 4: Slips, Trips and Falls

Falls are a hazard found in most work sectors. NIOSH has many fall prevention resources on its  website  including the  ladder safety app , the  mast climbing work platform inspection tool , and the mining  Infographic: Don’t Slip Up! In 2022, falls from elevation represented approximately 81% of all fatal and 20% of all nonfatal slips, trips, and falls for all industry workers. [4]   [5] Many of these falls occurred in the construction industry. In fact, construction workers made up nearly half (49%) of all fatal occupational slips, trips, and falls. 5 Since 2013, construction workers have suffered approximately 300 fatal and 20,000 nonfatal fall-related injuries per year. [6] The National Safety Stand-Down , part of the  National Campaign to Prevent Falls in Construction , raises awareness that falls among construction workers are preventable. Read more on  the blog .

The highest numbers of nonfatal fall injuries are in the health services and the wholesale and retail sectors. NIOSH  research  found that providing highly-rated slip-resistant shoes to food service workers led to a 67% reduction in workers compensation claims for slip injuries. Download the  infographic  available in English and Spanish.  Slips, trips, and falls are also the most common cause of injury for workers in elementary and secondary schools . Visit the NIOSH  falls website  to learn how to keep workers safe.

Slips, trips and falls are a leading cause of workplace injury and death, and although a persistent challenge, they must remain top of mind. NSC provides statistics on workplace falls both to a  lower level  and on the  same level  as well as  older adult falls  to help show the scope of the problem. The Council also provides a  Falls from Heights Toolkit , which provides best practices, planning tools, fact sheets, posters and more.

The Council’s  Safety+Health  magazine shares a variety of articles addressing this topic including:

• 7 Tips for Safe Use of Ladders
• 5 Facts for Safe Use of Aerial Lifts
• Reducing Slips, Trips and Falls
• Think You Know Ladder Safety? Quiz

The Work to Zero initiative at NSC believes safety technology can play an important role in preventing falls. Check out technologies for addressing the hazardous situation of  Work at Height .

John Howard, MD, is the Director of the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health.

Lorraine M. Martin is the President & CEO of the National Safety Council.

This is also posted on the National Safety Council blog .

[1] Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2018

[2]  Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) [2024]. Census of Fatal Occupational Injuries (2011 Forward) Database.  https://www.bls.gov/iif/data.htm .

[3]  National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund [2021].  Causes of law enforcement deaths

[4] Bureau of Labor Statistics (2023). News Release National Census of Fatal Occupational Injuries in 2022. USDL-23-2615. December 19, 2023. Available from:  https://www.bls.gov/news.release/pdf/cfoi.pdf .

[5] Bureau of Labor Statistics (2023). Number of nonfatal occupational injuries and illnesses involving days away from work, restricted activity, or job transfer (DART), days away from work (DAFW), and days of restricted work activity, or job transfer (DJTR) by event or exposure leading to injury or illness and industry sector, private industry, 2021-2022 (TABLE R64). November 8, 2023. Available from:  https://www.bls.gov/iif/nonfatal-injuries-and-illnesses-tables/case-and-demographic-characteristics-table-r64-2021-2022.xlsx

[6] CPWR (2024). Data Bulletin: Fatal and Nonfatal Falls in the US Construction Industry. The Center for Construction Research and Training.  Silver Spring, MD. March 2024. https://www.cpwr.com/wp-content/uploads/DataBulletin-March2024.pdf.

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