Packing list template

Updated on October 28, 2026

Forgetting the charger or your ID is exactly the kind of problem a list solves. This template covers the basics of a short trip; adjust the quantities to the number of days.

Documents

Photo ID or passport
Cards and some cash
Bookings (codes written down)

Clothes

T-shirts
Pants or shorts
Underwear and socks
Sweater or jacket
Pajamas
Extra shoes

Toiletries

Toothbrush and toothpaste
Deodorant
Sunscreen

Electronics

Phone charger
Headphones
Plug adapter

Medicine

Regular medication
Pain reliever

Before leaving

Windows closed
Trash taken out
House key

Packing list by category, with the items already packed ticked — The packing list by category: tick each item as you pack and the counter shows what is left.

How to use it

Create the note with "Use this template" a few days before the trip.
Delete what does not fit this destination and add what is specific (beachwear, a heavy coat).
When packing, check each item that goes in.
When you get back, write at the end of the note what you missed and what came back unused.

Tips

Keep the note in a trips folder: the previous trip’s list is the best starting point for the next one.
For family trips, add one section per person.
Do not write ID or card numbers in the note.

Adjust it to the kind of trip

The template list covers a short, ordinary trip. Before packing, think about the destination and what you will do there, and add a section for it. On long trips, pack clothes for about a week and plan to do laundry; the bag gets lighter and everything fits.

Beach: swimwear, flip-flops, a cap, sunscreen and a bag for wet clothes.
Cold weather: heavy coat, thermal layers, gloves, a hat and thick socks.
Business: clothes for meetings, laptop charger, printed documents and business cards.
With kids: one section per child, with medicine, a toy for the journey and a change of clothes in the carry-on.
International: passport, travel insurance, plug adapter and the address of where you are staying written down.