Fall time means cosy weekend road trips and discovering new cities and towns that you haven't visited before! I love a city break, they're such a great way to quickly immerse yourself in culture and have a mini vacation over a couple of days but weekend breaks means packing light. Here are 10 essentials that you need to pack to make sure you're set for the weekend, style wise! Plus, save 20% off Express for a limited time only and get the lot for less.

1. Cosy beanie

When the cold kicks in the best way to stay warm is by covering your head as that's where all the heat leaves your body from. Fact! A cute beanie hat with a pom pom is the perfect way to stay cosy and stylish this season.

2. Casual tops

You'll probably need 2 casual tops for your weekend break, this Pizza for President tee is perfect for one of them!

3. Backpack / duffle

Obviously, a backpack or a duffle to keep all your gear in is essential for a weekend break and it's best to have something you can carry about as opposed to a wheeled case as it's easier to jump on and off trains and buses in your city of choice. This super cute embellished backpack is on point right now.

4. Comfortable jeans

Jeans that will take you from day to night is the dream. You'll only be wearing them for 2 days so wearing them two days running shouldn't be an issue. Make sure they're stylish, comfortable and go with everything! These Mid-Rise Distressed Skinny Jeans would be a great piece to rock on your weekend away.

5. Sneakers

Sneakers that go with your versatile jeans and cute casual tops are a must have. Unless you're an absolute pro at walking in heels for hours on end, sneakers or comfortable boots will be your go-to for footwear for a city break away. These classic Superga kicks go with literally everything.

6. Sma-sual jacket

A jacket that looks great with jeans and sneakers and then is still smart enough for the evening is what you need! Packing light is the key and taking more than one jacket on your weekend away will weigh you down majorly. This Suede Biker Jacket is gorgeous and perfect for chillier weather as you can layer sweaters underneath or just wear a tee if it's a bit warmer. Plus the oxblood color is stunning!

7. Dressier shirts

A cute shirt or blouse that will still look great with your jeans and a change of shoes is exactly what you need for the evenings of a city break. You've been back to where you're staying, freshened up and now you can pop on your jeans again with a fresh top and some cute shoes (below!) and you have a whole new outfit. This pretty crocheted cropped shirt is perfect for this and it's super lightweight so won't take up much room in your backpack.

8. Evening shoes

A pair of shoes for the evening is a good idea if you like to change up your look. This cute pair of flats are still great for walking around because you might need to do some exploring before you find your dinner location! Also, flats are much easier to pack than heels.

9. Beauty essentials

Duh, of course you need your beauty essentials but pack light by only taking exactly what you need. Express have a great range of lip glosses that are a great way to look sweet without taking a million and one products. This 'Gorgeous Orchid' shade should suit everyone, too!

10. Cute day bag

Finally, if you're able to dump your main backpack and explore with just a small bag, lucky you! A cross-body bag is the best way to keep things safe as it's over your body and you can wear it on your front so you could be less likely to have your purse stolen if you're visiting a big, busy city.

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