Our Weekend Packing List for Southern California

We’re heading to Southern California—just outside Santa Barbara—for a quick Friday through Sunday getaway. It’s one of those easy trips where you don’t want to overpack but still want to feel put together (and keep the kiddo happy). For this trip, I’m challenging myself and Daughter (my 9-year-old) to each take only a carry-on, neatly packed with packing cubes.

If you’re planning a similar weekend escape, here’s exactly what we’re bringing.

The Weather in Late September

Southern California in late September is dreamy: warm and sunny during the day, a little breezy at night. Think mid to high 70s in the day and low 60s in the evenings. Perfect beach weather, but you’ll definitely want a light layer once the sun dips.

My Weekend Carry-On (Treana’s List)

I like to keep it simple and stick with pieces that mix and match:

Clothing

• 1 lightweight dress (works for brunch or dinner)

• 1 pair of shorts

• 1 pair of linen pants (must do tall cause… leggggggggggggggs)

• 1 pair jeansssss

• 2 tops (one casual, one a little dressier)

• 1 striped button down— cause I love them and always feel elevated in them.

• 1 light sweater or cardigan

• Denim jacket (for evenings)

• Swimsuit + cover-up

• Pajamas + undergarments (my go to Pajamas are all from Gap/Old Navy. They come in long. They come in sets. I love them)

Shoes

• Walking sandals - Birk’s

• Sneakers (travel + exploring)- Either these Veja’s or these Adidas classic

• Rothy’s Flats

• Flip flops (for the pool or beach)

Extras

• Sunglasses + sun hat (these green retro sunnies are so fun)

• Crossbody bag

• Minimal skincare + sunscreen (LOLOL. My skin care, makeup, and sunscreen situation is … a situation. I am on a no purchasing products until all of mine are gone freeze right now)

• Reusable water bottle- my favorite Brumate water bottles. Just remember to let some of the air out during the flight. :)

Daughter’s Weekend Carry-On

Kids always end up needing more “just in case” pieces, but we’re still keeping it tight with the cubes:

Clothing

• 1 casual dress

• 2 pairs of shorts— casual and a little nicer

• 3 fun tops - wish it was in adult size, ruffle and stripe, and an oversized T

• 1 hoodie- Daughter will wear one from camp, but i LOVE this one.

• 1 pair of leggings (comfy for travel)- Daughter is the pickiest person alive when it comes to leggings.

• Swimsuit + rash guard - comes with matching cover up pants!??

• Pajamas + undergarments

Shoes

• Sneakers

• Sandals

• Flip flops

Extras

• Sunglasses + sun hat

• Small backpack (for her treasures + snacks)

• Coloring book, tablet + headphones

• Her favorite stuffed animal (non-negotiable)

Our Packing Cube Strategy

• One cube for day outfits (easy grab-and-go each morning)

• One cube for swim gear

• One cube for nighttime/jammies

This way, Daughter can actually find her own things without digging through a messy suitcase, and I keep my sanity.

A Few Travel Tips I Swear By

• Roll your clothes instead of folding—they take up less space and don’t wrinkle as much.

• Pack snacks you know your kid will eat. Airport food is not worth the hangry meltdown.

• Bring a foldable tote for beach towels or any shopping.

• Keep sunscreen handy—we reapply all day long.

That’s It!

Three days, two carry-ons, zero stress. By keeping things light and intentional, we can spend less time packing and more time soaking up that California sunshine.

Would you pack differently for a quick coastal trip? I’d love to hear your must-haves for a kid-friendly carry-on.