Fashion

Perfect Weekend Bags For Your Labor Day Getaway

by Sara Tardiff

Long-weekend trips often seem like the last summer hurrah — and for those of us headed back to school, it just might be. But there's no reason you can't make the most of those late summer nights in style with a perfect weekend bag for your trip. So what should you pack? Of course you should bring along a colorful bikini, those classic denim shorts, and a bright, patterned dress for some partying. But if you're as obsessed with celebrity airplane style as I am (yes, this is a thing I Google regularly), then you know that your travel look is just as important as what you wear once you're there.

What do most celebs have in common when crafting a chic, yet wearable, airport outfit? Their uniform generally consists of comfy boyfriend jeans, a fitted baseball cap, sunglasses, and a chic carry-on. However, whether you're getting on a plane, hopping in your car, or simply taking the subway to your weekend destination, a fab weekend bag is a must.

I've searched high and low for the perfect weekend bag and I've determined the key qualities to look for are: functionality, wearability, and affordability. Check out some of my finds and get ready to live up your weekend in style.

1. Neutral Color-Blocking

This sleek weekend bag is spacious enough to fit plenty of outfit changes, yet still stylish enough to be wearable with any en route ensemble.

Colour-Block Luggage Bag, $110, topshop.com

2. Classic Leather In A Fab Color

This gorgeous burnt orange bag is the perfect jumpstart for fall.

Royal RepubliQ Explorer Weekend Leather Holdall, $412.05, asos.com

3. Never Doubt Denim

Denim really can do no wrong. This casual getaway bag even has a strap to make toting it around a breeze.

Weekender Bag, $420, needsupply.com

4. No Stars, Just Stripes

This very preppy carry-on was made to complete a pulled-together travel look.

Striped Weekender Handbag, $34.99, target.com

5. Sleek In Suede

Suede is officially a fall staple. Say goodbye to the last bit of summer with this gorgeous weekend bag that you'll get some major use out of the rest of the season.

Urbancode Leather Weekend Bag, $122.72, asos.com

6. Feeling Festive

This bag is equally as fun as your weekend is about to be! Embroidery and tassels galore. The simple black and white color scheme tones it down just enough to make it a travel go-to.

Embroidered Floral Print Weekender HandBag, $34.99, target.com

7. In The Nude

Nude is trending right now, on everything from heels to nails. Get your fix with this great bag.

Canvas Weekender Handbag, $34.99, target.com

8. Very Dark

Carrying a bag with a dark color palette means you won't have to worry about getting it dirty. Plus, this luxe bag is suede on top, faux leather on the bottom — meaning stains don't stand a chance.

Topshop Luggage Bag, $68, topshop.com

9. Candy-Colored Carry-On

Looking for cute and colorful — not to mention super functional? This weekender is it. Not only is it adorable, it also comes with tons of pockets to store your Labor Day essentials!

Day By Birger Et Mikkelsen Gweneth Travel Bag, $155, urbanoutfitters.com

10. Stick To Simplicity

Simple is best when packing for your last summer weekend getaway. All you really need is a few outfits and a bathing suit — but don't forget the sunblock. An easy bag like this will make your travels that much smoother.

ASOS Scuba Weekender Holdall Bag, $53.75, asos.com

11. Snakeskin Chic

Black snakeskin? I'm pretty sure it doesn't get more stylish than this.

H&M Weekend Bag, $59.95, hm.com

12. Summer Camp Throwback

With the cute patterns and Keds label, this duffle is seriously reminiscent of packing for summer camp. Only now, you're much more glam of course.

Keds Weekender, $60, keds.com

13. Minimal Hastle

For the Minimalist Bag Aficionados out there, it doesn't get any better than this.

The Twill Weekender, $98, everlane.com

14. Pretty In Print

This vibrant little back captures those end of summer vibes perfectly.

Cleobella Lisbon Weekender Tote, $415, shopbop.com

Whether you're spending your time off at a friend's beach house or just going to visit a new city for a few days, a chic weekend bag makes everything just a little bit better.

Images: Courtesy Brands