5 Steps to Pack Everything

If you’re worried about forgetting something important when packing, this guide is for you.

It’s just five simple steps, let’s get started!

1. Create Your Own Packing List

Don’t rely on lists you find online. There will be time for that later.

• Start by making your own packing list from scratch. Use a piece of paper or a tool like Google Sheets.
• Write down everything you want to take. To make it easier, divide the items into categories, like: Documents, Clothing, Toiletries, Personal Items, Electronics, Money, Food, Transportation, and Entertainment.
• Over the next few days, add things to the list as you use them in your daily life. Charging your phone? Don’t just list the phone, add the charger too. Using your thermos? Maybe you’ll want to take that with you as well.

Try to think of as many items as you use regularly.

2. Generate a Packing List

Use our free packing list generator to create a customized list tailored to your trip.

1. Enter details like where you’re going to get more specific packing recommendations.
2. Once your list is generated, remove all the items you won’t need.
3. Add any missing items from your own list (the one you made from scratch).

Now you’re ready to pack using the final list. Print it out or download a PDF to keep it handy (you can do this for free in the Print or Get the PDF section).

3. Do Your Research

Every destination is unique, so take some time to do proper research before your trip.

• Look for articles about preparing for travel to your specific country or region.
• Find out what documents are required. In addition to basics like a passport, you might need a visa or vaccination certificates.
• Look up the nearest pharmacy, hospital, and stores where you can buy essentials if needed.
• Check the local currency.

Platforms like Facebook or Reddit often have groups for travelers visiting specific destinations.

For example, “Americans in Germany.” These groups are great for asking for advice or help from people who understand your situation and know what challenges you might face (like required documents or cultural differences).

4. Plan Your Trip in Detail

Picture your entire trip.

Plan it day by day, activity by activity. Think about what items you might need.

• Going swimming? You’ll need swimwear, goggles, and a towel.
• Visiting family? Bring formal clothing and maybe some gifts.

You can’t plan for everything, but try to prepare for unexpected situations. Pack essentials like medication, bandages, and a list of useful contacts (emergency numbers, embassy contact info, etc.).

5. Get Feedback

Once your list is ready, ask others for feedback.

Someone with a fresh perspective might spot missing items or suggest things you won’t actually need (and you probably don’t want to overpack).

Here’s who you can ask:

• Friends who’ve taken similar trips. If you know someone who’s been to your destination, ask for their advice. They can tell you what was useful and what turned out to be unnecessary.
• Reddit. Check out travel-related subreddits like r/travel, or more specific ones like r/JapanTravel or r/backpacking. You can search for posts with similar questions or ask your own, like “What should I pack for a 10-day trip to Norway in winter?” You can also share your list and ask for feedback.
• Facebook Groups. Join travel groups like “Traveling Europe,” “Solo Travelers,” or country-specific groups like “Americans in Spain.” These groups can provide feedback on your list, tell you what’s easy to find locally, or share location-specific packing tips (like power adapters or local SIM cards).
• Your Doctor. If you’re traveling to exotic locations, your doctor can help you prepare a medical kit. Ask about specific medications for your destination (like tropical disease treatments), recommended supplements, or vaccines and other health requirements.
• AI Tools. Modern tech, like AI assistants such as ChatGPT, can help you refine your packing list. You can share your list generated on PackingListHub (many tools can read PDFs) and ask for suggestions on what to add.

Now You’re Ready to Pack!

Here are a few final tips to help you pack effectively:

• Remember your carry-on. Pack essentials like documents, electronics, medications, snacks, and basic toiletries. Things you’ll need during your journey should be easy to access.
• Group your items. Organize your main luggage by category to make things easier to find. You can save some space by rolling your clothes instead of folding them.
• Check items off your list. As you pack, mark each item on your list. This way, you won’t accidentally skip anything.
• Take your list with you. It’ll come in handy when packing for the trip home to ensure nothing gets left behind.

Congratulations! You’re all set for your trip.