After I left several things at home during a recent trip because I didn’t make a list, I decided it would be a good idea to put together a comprehensive list for travel. Everything I need to pack, possible extra items depending on time of year or weather, and my pre-trip to do list. Although this list seems pretty comprehensive, I will continue to refine as necessary. From now on, before every trip, I’m going to just glance at it. This way, regardless of how busy I am or any personal crises, I will hopefully remember everything I need for my next trip!
On every trip:
- Skirt or pants for every two days
- Top for every day
- Flip flops/sneakers (depending on time of year)
- Two pairs of work shoes
- Sleep clothes
- Workout clothes
- Jewelry
- Socks (if needed)
- Toiletries
- Curling Iron
- Makeup
In purse:
- Chargers
- Laptop
- Books/Magazines/Kindle
- Knitting
- Purse stuff: wallet, keys, phone, lipstick
- Any necessary itinerary papers (especially for international travel)
- Pashmina
Possible extras:
- Coat/jacket
- Swimsuit
- Jeans
- Umbrella
Toiletries:
- Shampoo and conditioner
- Body wash
- Razor
- Face wash
- Hydrating mist
- Eye cream (spare contacts case)
- Moisturizer (spare contacts case)
- Toothpaste and toothbrush
- Contact case and solution
- Hair cream (spare contacts case)
- Deodorant
- Lotion
To do before a trip:
- Check weather at destination
- Pick seats on plane
- Print boarding pass
- Apply for upgrade
- Check toiletry levels
- Pack
- Pack travel purse
- Set Out of Office message
- Confirm hotel and car reservations
Readers, anything on your list that I missed?
GPS is a big one for me. I drive all over for my trips. I also tend to stick a small clutch into my bag so that if I want to go out, I don’t have to lug a big bag.
Include belts. I am forever forgetting belts on trips (when I don’t check my generic list). Also, type the generic list into a Word document and print it out/cross things off before every trip.
I also include a laminated checklist for each bag, in addition to a fresh checklist for each trip. Since I mostly travel internationally, I also have items like “check exchange rate” and “contact info at destination.”
Business cards! I added that to my packing list after getting to a meeting and realizing my card case had exactly one card in it. Now I keep a pile of cards at home as well as in my office, and I refill my card case when I pack.
Feminine products. Got caught unprepared one morning in a hotel without a little store. Not fun.
I second the idea of typing up the list and crossing things off as you pack.
These are all great additions! Thanks for adding.