When I begin preparing for a trip, the first thing I do is print a copy of my packing list. You can see my old packing list in a post I published eight years ago. That list is perfectly functional, but I decided to create one that is less colorful and that has slightly different categories.
These are the categories I’ve included in my new packing list:
- Pre-trip tasks (placing a hold on mail delivery, mowing the lawn, etc.), with an area to indicate tasks that need to be completed immediately before leaving (emptying the coffee grounds from the coffee maker, taking out the trash, etc.)
- Documents and money (passport, confirmation numbers for reservations, debit/credit cards, cash, etc.)
- Clothing and shoes (shirts, pants, jacket, sandals, etc.)
- Medications and health (prescription medications, first aid kit, hand sanitizer, etc.)
- Toiletries and accessories (toothbrush, shampoo, hair ties, jewelry, etc.)
- Miscellaneous items (laptop computer, books, travel neck pillow, etc.)
I’ve included two versions of this packing list below. These are both in MS Word format, so they are editable. One is blank, so you can type in the items you want on the list and then print it. The second contains items you may need for travel. You can delete or add to these as needed before printing it.
(Click on the images to view and download the packing lists.)
I keep a completed copy of this list on my computer (it’s similar to the latter version I shared above, but it contains more specific details about things like medications). As I noted above, I print the list in advance of any trips we take. I keep it handy so I can cross off unnecessary items and write in any items that are specific to the upcoming trip. Doing this saves me a lot of time and effort when it comes to packing!
If you’re not sure this packing list is for you, it’s okay! There are many others available, including packing checklists, lists with blank columns, and ones contained in travel journals.
What things do you do to minimize the stress of packing before a trip? I’d love to hear your tips!
