Add These Items to Your Packing and Level Up Your Long Weekend Getaway
From small elevations to practical picks, these items can help you level up your long weekend packing.
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Summer may be behind us for another year, but that doesn't mean we need to lock ourselves away until November. In fact, planning a long weekend getaway during the cooler months often means quieter trips, cheaper rates, quality time with friends and family and a change of scenery as the days get shorter.
One long weekend getaway is found in Bendigo, Victoria. Tasman Holiday Parks Bendigo has recently launched its fleet of vintage-style caravans that are full of character. The park features four retro caravans nicknamed Patty, Selma, Thelma, and Louise, which come complete with comfortable, modern amenities, including a queen bed, private bathroom, and kitchenette. You don't have to worry about packing your vinyl player as the caravans have their own, along with some lawn games to help you log off.
The campsite also includes access to a communal resort pool, laundry facilities, a camp kitchen, and a games room. It's designed for group holidays, couples' trips, and a quiet family escape. Plus, with a central Bendigo location, you still have access to the best in Victorian food, wine and galleries. While Tasman Holiday Parks has your long weekend accommodation sorted, what else is essential packing for a getaway? We tapped the Concrete Playground Melbourne office to find out.
Get Offline
For Head of Creative Strategy, James, long weekends are all about getting away from the screens. You'll find James packing a journal, sketch pad and paints to creatively capture the sights of the weekend. If you really want to "touch some grass", James also packs a pair of binoculars for bird watching. Don't knock it 'til you try it, okay?
He also packs "introspective" card games such as We're Not Really Strangers or tarot cards to really get deep. Head of Video and Social, Denise, also agrees with adding a pack of cards to your duffel bag before hitting the road. For Concrete Playground's Managing Editor, Eliza, she loves a film camera, like this one from 35mm Co, to help her get into the analogue mindset and slow down.
Small Elevations Make a Difference
Long weekends don't need to come with a luxury price tag but that doesn't mean you can't elevate your plans. For the Concrete Playground crew, this looks like packing a chic wine bottle opener and aerator so you can decant immediately and enjoy around the Tasman Holiday Park fire pit. This Addison Ross Corkscrew bottle opener offers an aesthetically pleasing addition to any long weekend hamper, while this Here's How bottle opener comes to just $24.95 and won't leave you asking your neighbour for a favour. "I've battled with a corked bottle in a holiday house one too many times," says Senior Partnerships Manager, Charlotte.
When it comes to aerators, this George Jensen option offers attention to detail with a stylish asymmetrical funnel. The Bartender aerator is also a classic (at a lower price point) that enhances your wine's flavours. Charlotte also recommends packing a luxe face mask, like the Biodance ones to create a DIY spa on your weekend away.
Get Practical
Outside of hobbies and wine accessories, other practical packing ideas include a reusable water bottle like this one from Made By Fressko, perfect for long bush walks or gallery hopping in Bendigo. A stylish power bank to keep your phone snapping pictures all weekend long, like this one from The Dairy (who said power banks need to be boring?).
Just because you're on a getaway doesn't mean your coffee game needs to be neglected. AeroPress Coffee Maker Go is the brand's compact travel option that features 3-in-1 brew technology. You don't have to compromise on flavour (or resort to instant coffee) as the AeroPress offers a smooth, full-bodied flavour without any grit or bitterness. Delish.
In our opinion, autumn/winter getaways are often the most relaxing. Sure, there's no beach swims or cold cocktails, but there is a whole lot of logging off, touching grass, and taking time out with your family and friends. So, go plan yours this season.
Book your stay at Tasman Holiday Parks now.
Image Credit: Supplied
