Packing for a work retreat — especially one with outdoor activities with a mix of professional and casual settings — can be tricky. The email from HR simply stated to bring comfortable clothes, walking shoes, and probably something nicer for dinner. Ok, now you’re rethinking everything you packed.
We hear you! At Retreat 21, we know one of the keys to a great retreat is a team that comes prepared. After reviewing some great tips from TravelPerk, we added a few ideas specific to Retreat 21 and created a complete guide to ensure you’re ready for any scenario during your stay with us.
Business Casual Basics: Packing for Professional Sessions
A work retreat might not have the same dress code as the office. That’s why a business-casual approach for the professional sessions during your retreat lets you feel comfortable without compromising on professionalism. You’ll find the essentials below:
- Versatile Tops – Bring two staple tops, like a classic blouse or a button-down. Both can be paired with trousers, skirts, or dark jeans.
- Blazer or Cardigan – Check the weather, layering is key for outdoor-indoor transitions. A blazer or cardigan adds polish for meetings, and adds warmth when needed.
- Professional Trousers and Dark Jeans – While trousers are essential for presentations or structured meetings, dark jeans are a comfortable option for casual sessions or team dinners.
- Footwear – Choose one pair of professional shoes, like loafers or ankle boots, and a second, more comfortable pair of shoes for movement and outdoor activities.
Pro Tip: Remember those dark jeans on the list? Pair them with your blazer for an upscaled look for dinner.
Outdoor Attire: Dressing for Retreat 21’s Scenic Trails and Outdoor Activities
With a lush landscape, vineyard views, and spaces dedicated to mindfulness, Retreat 21 offers the perfect blend of nature and productivity. Here’s your guide for how to dress and pack for outdoor adventures and team bonding exercises:
- Activewear for Hiking or Yoga – pack a pair of joggers, a lightweight jacket, and a top. Remember, this is a work retreat, so your activewear should reflect your company’s values.
- Lightweight jacket or long-sleeve shirt – just in case it’s chilly in the morning or evening.
- Sunscreen, hat, sunglasses – hopefully these will prevent the need for aloe!
Pro Tip: Efficiency is essential – bring a compact backpack or tote bag to easily carry water, sunscreen, and any other personal items during outdoor activities.
Office Essentials: Bring a Few Comforts from Your Office
When working from a remote venue like Retreat 21, you’ll still want to bring a few helpful items to remain organized and ready to contribute to the team. Here’s what to prioritize:
- Notebook and Pen – sometimes regarded as old school, but great for an impromptu brain-storming session while on a hike.
- Charger and/or adaptors: You’ll be on the move throughout your retreat, and your charger will keep your devices ready, whether you’re in a lounge area or on the patio.
- Laptop or Tablet: Bringing either of these is subjective and it may depend on your role at the retreat. But, in case you were wondering, the Wi-Fi at Retreat 21 is excellent. We have a direct fiber connection to ensure you have an amazing digital experience.
Pro Tip: If you’re leading a session, be sure to bring back-up handouts (old school again), but if your machine fails, you’re still ready to present!
Last but not least: Don’t Forget Your Toothbrush!
Host Tools put together a list of the 20 Most Commonly Forgotten Things to Pack, and number one is your toothbrush! We’ve added a few more items to a final essentials list:
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- General toiletries like a hairbrush, comb, make-up, contact solution, etc.
- Travel size umbrella or rain poncho
- Reusable water bottle
- Hand sanitizer
- Bug spray
- Swimsuit
FINAL Pro Tip: Pickup travel size containers and fill with your favorite toiletries from home. You’ll save a little money and have the products you love to use every day.
Our Team Retreats are designed to help you relax, connect, and feel inspired. We hope this Ultimate Packing Guide helps remove some stress and prepare you for an Overnight Work Retreat like you’ve never experienced before. Go ahead and pack, we’re waiting for you.