What to pack for a weekend in the country
Escaping to more bucolic surrounds? We’ve got your packing list sorted
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There’s nothing quite like a weekend in the country. Swapping traffic for trails, crowded streets for country lanes, and skyscraping office blocks for cosy cottages. Whether you’re trekking across abundant green fields and long winding roads or hopping into a Land Rover for lazy pub lunches and fireside drinks, a couple of days in the great outdoors, surrounded by rolling hills and big open skies, offers the perfect mix of peace, fresh air, and hearty indulgence.
But with the charm come some minor downsides, like unpredictable downpours, muddy feet, and chilly drafts (yes, even in summer). Accordingly, what you pack matters, and you best be prepared for the classic British summertime with all the essentials you need to guarantee comfort, practicality, and of course, countryside chic.
The key? Your suitcase should include a mix of functional but sophisticated pieces for both casual and more formal occasions, plus spontaneous adventures with changeable weather. Not sure where to start? From smart layers to sturdy footwear, we’ve got you covered with our guide to what to pack for a weekend in the country, with expert tips from Jack Gregorie, product manager and head of sustainability at Farlows, and Marcus Fairfax Fountaine, co-founding director at Fairfax and Favor. Read on to nail that rugged but refined countryside style on your next rural retreat.
Image: Farlows
Image: Fairfax and Favor
Layers
Let’s start with layers. They may take up a little extra room in your luggage, but you’ll be thankful on chilly evenings in drafty country houses or when braving breezy walks. Yes, even in the summertime, temperatures can get pretty fresh. A chunky knit is the perfect solution, and as Gregorie says, “Knitwear is very useful to throw on in the evening for al fresco drinks as the cooler temperatures come in.”
But there’s no need to compromise on style. Choose wool, mohair and cashmere blends, round necks or turtlenecks, and block colours or patterned styles. Fountaine suggests opting for neutral tones: “Think rich tans, navy, and greens. These earthy hues perfectly complement your countryside surroundings.” The key is to choose well-fitted staples that are simultaneously cosy and chic.
Outerwear
If you’ve chosen to spend your weekend in the country, chances are you know what you’re in for. One moment, the weather gods could be on your side, and the day is filled with sunshine and balmy temperatures. But just as you’re starting to get comfortable, a rain cloud hits and a light drizzle turns into a downpour. For these changeable times, you’ll want to have a waterproof coat or wax jacket at hand to keep you dry, protected from the elements, and prevent you looking like a drowned rat.
Gregorie recommends Farlows’ Safari jacket or Schoffel’s Ptarmigan Ultralight coat: “Both great for summer walks with a risk of rain. If you’re heading into autumn, opt for a tweed coat like our Litchfield fieldcoat – it doesn’t get more countryside than that.” Fountaine meanwhile suggests its Olivia wax jacket: “An ideal layering piece for the notoriously unpredictable weather. Made from water-resistant dry-waxed fabric, it’s just what you need in case you get caught in a rainy shower.”
Trousers
When it comes to bottoms, we suggest packing a couple of options for versatility. You can never go wrong with a classic pair of jeans, and worn with a chunky knit and boots, you’ll nail the effortless but put-together countryside aesthetic every time. For days when jeans are a little too toasty, ditch the denim and turn to lighter-weight options like chinos, linen trousers, or shorts. Alternatively, if you're off on a hike or lengthy walk, sports leggings that are lightweight, breathable, and sweat-wicking are probably your best bet.
Eveningwear
Don’t neglect your evening attire. Your country weekend may be more morning walks, afternoons spent reading and cosy nights in, but if you’re planning on going out in the evening for a meal at the local pub or sunset drinks, pack a couple of smarter options that still promise a pared back, understated style. Men, think a plaid or striped shirt with chinos, ladies look to floaty dresses or a frilly blouse and tailored trousers.
Footwear
Probably one of the most important items on your packing list is footwear. As Fountaine puts it: “Comfort is key, but that doesn’t mean you have to compromise on style.” A sturdy pair of boots is a must when vacating the city for the countryside (Chukka or Chelsea styles work well). Farfax & Favor’s Explorer boot offers the perfect style for transitioning from muddy terrain to a cosy dinner at the local pub.
If rain is forecast, better be on the safe side with a hardy pair of wellies, and for dressier moments, style it out in loafers or sandals: “Something smart but practical,” as Gregorie says.
Accesories
And don’t forget the accessories that will tie it all together. Hats, whether a beanie or cap, are both practical and stylish, the former adding warmth, the latter protecting you from the sun, and both adding substantial character. Sunglasses are a given for form and function and can rack up style points in an instant, while a tote bag or durable, roomy backpack serve well for long days out (and farmer’s market finds).
Read more: What to pack for a chic city break
