Packing List Template

Packing for a trip is one of those tasks that feels simple until you're at the airport realizing you forgot your phone charger. A good packing list eliminates that anxiety. This template covers the essentials for most trips and can be customized for your specific destination and duration.

Documents and Money

These are the items that can actually ruin your trip if forgotten. Check these first.

• Passport or ID
• Boarding passes (printed or on phone)
• Hotel confirmation
• Travel insurance documents
• Credit cards and some cash in local currency
• Driver's license (if renting a car)
• Copies of important documents (stored separately from originals)

Electronics

The things that keep you connected and entertained.

• Phone and charger
• Portable battery pack
• Headphones or earbuds
• Laptop or tablet (if needed)
• Camera
• Power adapter (for international travel)
• E-reader

Clothing

The general rule: pack for the number of days, then remove a third. You can almost always do laundry or buy something you forgot.

• Underwear and socks (one per day plus a spare)
• T-shirts or tops
• Pants or shorts
• One nicer outfit for dinners or events
• Pajamas
• Light jacket or layers (even warm destinations get cool at night)
• Swimsuit
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Sandals or flip-flops

Toiletries

Most hotels provide basics, but having your own saves hassle. Use travel-size containers for carry-on flights.

• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Deodorant
• Shampoo and conditioner
• Sunscreen
• Medications (in original containers for international travel)
• Contact lenses and solution
• First aid basics: band-aids, pain reliever, anti-diarrheal

Comfort and Convenience

• Reusable water bottle (empty through security, fill after)
• Snacks for travel days
• Neck pillow for long flights
• Pen (for customs forms)
• Ziplock bags (for wet clothes, toiletry leaks, snacks)
• Laundry bag for dirty clothes

Packing Tips

• Roll clothes instead of folding to save space and reduce wrinkles.
• Pack a change of clothes in your carry-on in case checked luggage is delayed.
• Wear your bulkiest items on the plane (boots, heavy jacket) to save suitcase space.
• Share the list with travel companions using a shared list so you don't duplicate items like sunscreen or a first aid kit.
• Start packing a few days early and leave the suitcase open. You'll remember things throughout the day that you'd miss in a last-minute pack.