For weekend trips, you want to pack light. You don't need to drag around a heavy suitcase just to carry a few changes of clothes. Instead, choose a small travel backpack. You'll have enough space to pack everything you need for 2-3 nights without having to check a bag.

A weekender backpack should be between 20-35 liters in volume. Smaller, shallower bags can fit under the seat in front of you and qualify as a personal item. You don't even have to put it in the overhead bin.

If you can fit everything in a small backpack that fits under the seat, you can even save money by buying a Basic Economy ticket which allows you a free personal item but not a carry on.