If you don’t have time for a full-fledged vacation (or if the nightmare of air travel is putting you off these days), it’s high time to take advantage of summer Fridays and hit the weekend. My goal this summer is to see all the waterfalls within a five hour radius of NYC, but any town or lakeside town will do as long as the WiFi is spotty and the scenery is mostly blue and green.
Packing is always a challenge for me, but the only thing I need this summer is a weekend bag with enough space to hold sunscreen, insect repellent, two outfits, pajamas, underwear, toiletries and a bikini (or five) – but smaller than a suitcase. Ideally, this will also serve as a bag that I bring to relax near said waterfall, the ocean or another body of water. Currently, all I have is a large backpack (it’s practical but doesn’t match the aesthetic vision) and a carry-on suitcase (something about the wheels seems overkill), so I turned to a few well-traveled experts for a few recommendations.
Here, creative director Jen Azoulay, stylist Vivid Wu and TA boutique founder Telsha Anderson-Boone share their all-time favorite weekend bags to buy before your next getaway.
Jen Azoulay, Artistic Director & Founder of Jen Wonders Studio
Photo: Courtesy of Jen Azoulay
Mary Poppins Canvas Tote
“This canvas and leather bag is called Mary Poppins for a reason. I love how chic it looks and how big it is to carry, with a few different pockets for all the weekend necessities.”
Giuliva Heritage
Keepall Shoulder Strap 55
“The Louis Vuitton monogram is my favourite. It’s a real statement. I got mine second-hand and love how it’s aged over time for a little vintage vibe. A bag forever. “
Louis Vuitton
Large Diamond Quilted Weekend
“The Marc Jacobs bag is for the sports weekend: for a camping trip or a yoga retreat. Large and easy, this bag will be your best companion.”
Marc Jacobs
The New York
“Featuring a spacious and versatile compartment, this bag is ideal for those who need a modern yet timeless, luxurious yet durable bag for their travels.
Demellier London
Large croissant bag
“This is my all-time travel bag. Crafted from supple leather, its lightweight, unisex design and ergonomic shape can hold everything you need for a quick weekend getaway.”
The mayor
XL Tote
“If you’re looking for a cute and practical tote bag that holds a decent amount of stuff, this would be a perfect weekend getaway bag for you.”
Rue de Verneuil
Braided handbag
“All Brother Vellies makes me want to book a flight to a random island, grab an oversized dress and relax. There’s nothing like a bag that makes a statement and adds like a fun accessory to an overall look.”
Brother Vellies
Town and Country Tote
“When I was growing up my mum had an entire collection of T. Anthony travel bags and to this day the brand remains iconic. It’s a charismatic style.”
T. Anthony
