Courtney & Meagan created Birdling Bags for travelers, especially for those who have children. The idea of Birdling Bags came about after Courtney attempted to embark on a family getaway shortly after Tess, her daughter, was born, and using a diaper bag that was too small for their traveling adventures. She knew that Meagan, her life long friend, would be the perfect partner to help this company take flight. Their flight path wasn’t the easiest at first, as it was bumpy and long in the beginning, yet their claim to fame is an amazing weekender that stands out among the rest: Birdling Bags!

One surefire way to make a traveling experience even more enjoyable is to travel light with a single carry-on, especially when many airlines are charging to check items. It’s also rewarding when traveling by vehicle, because you create a lot of space that way! Packing light may not sound like the easiest feat for a family of four, but it can easily be done with a spacious weekender, such as the Birdling Weekender Bag ($180 – $225; Available in Sun Bleached Salmon, Driftwood Grey, Dark Olive, and Classic Navy) in 8 easy steps:

1. Check the Weather

Pack according to weather conditions.

2. Lighten the Load – Wear Your Heaviest Items

Wear your heaviest items (i.e. sweaters, jeans, boots, and coats) for departure for lighter luggage.

3. Roll Your Clothing

Sometimes, I like to be a little spontaneous by traveling without a itinerary. Backpackers and road trippers do all of the time. However, it can be a little tricky, not to mention a bit costly for a family of four. Planning your destination also helps you pack accordingly, which can deter you from overpacking.

4. Plan Your Itinerary

Sometimes, I like to be a little spontaneous by traveling without a itinerary. Backpackers and road trippers do all of the time. However, it can be a little tricky, not mention a bit costly, for a family of four. Planning your destination also helps you pack accordingly, which can deter you from overpacking.

5. Make a Packing List

I practically list everything! It’s one way of helping me stay organized. Nothing drives me battier than disorganization. Here’s an adorable, yet well-detailed printable checking list that is completely free!

6. Pack Spacious and Lightweight Tote Bags for Dirty Laundry or Souvenirs

I always bring at least one or two lightweight, yet spacious tote bags. I use one for souvenirs, while the other one is used to separate clothes that’s to be laundered from the clothes that are clean. Each Birdling Weekender comes with free Dirty Birdie Laundry Bag (a $15 value).

7. Give Your Weekender the Once Over

I like to give my luggage a once-over at least a week before leaving for my trip. I make sure that I have everything that I need. I also remove anything that I may deem unnecessary, especially if there is something that doesn’t coordinate well with the other pieces that I have.

8. Stick to the Neutrals

Those fun, vibrant clothing prints may be tempting to wear, but sticking to the basic color schemes, especially in separates, will enable endless outfit possibilities. This will also help you pack fewer items. It doesn’t hurt to have a little fun with your accessories, because this will give your neutrals a jolt of color!

The Sun Bleached Salmon Weekender Bag that I received is normally $225, but you can you get it for $180 during the month of October in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. A portion of the sales from each bag will be donated to The National Breast Cancer Foundation.

This weekender bag is bold, yet feminine with a vintage feel to it. It is also spacious (14”h x 20”w x 11”D) enough to pack of my family’s essentials without being cumbersome in the least. The canvas exterior is durable, water-proof, and features four pockets on all sides, as well as chestnut genuine leather hand grip and accents. The nylon interior boasts three separate compartments. Overall, I couldn’t have picked a better weekender. The Sun Bleached Salmon Weekender Bag is functional, fashionable, and durable.