We all think packing isn’t that big of a deal till it’s time to pack. That’s when suitcases start to fly and items are all over the place, but the main thing you are looking for has suddenly found a unique hiding place that’s out of your reach. 

Imagine forgetting your passport and only realizing it at immigration, or worse, forgetting important documents such as original certificates and having to rush around last-minute, spending a fortune on logistics to ship them to your location.

If you frequently struggle with packing, or you run a travel business and want to create an evergreen lead generation form to embed on your website, this guide is for you, with a free template to get you started.

Why You Need a Packing List Form

A packing list form helps you outline everything you need for your trip, making sure you don’t forget anything. You can even use it on your return trip to double-check that you’re bringing everything home. Here’s how it makes travel easier:

1. Stress Reduction

Packing for a trip can easily become stressful, especially when you keep remembering things at the last minute. You pack, then remember that you forgot something, and after packing that item,  you realize—again—that you’ve forgotten something else. Using a packing list form helps you prevent the last-minute chaos and anxiety that comes with trying to remember what you packed and what you didn’t.

2. Efficiency

Using a packing list is cost-efficient because you don’t have to get to your destination and have to buy new items, or worse, have to transport what you forgot to your current location. For example, with a packing list, you don’t have to go through the stress of locating the nearest mall or convenience store to buy a new toothbrush and other toiletries on your trip because you forgot to pack them.

Imagine getting to the airport and realizing at immigration that you forgot your passport, that’s an added transportation cost and maybe even a new flight ticket if you miss your flight.

3. Customization

Using a packing list tailors your luggage to each trip; not all trips are the same, and neither should your packing be. A customizable packing list lets you prepare for different kinds of trips, including business trips, vacations, adventure, etc. This way, you prioritize the right things for your luggage and don’t have to pay for excess luggage because you overpacked.

4. Accountability

Checking off items ensures you track your progress and commit to leaving nothing behind. Over time, you can refine your list based on experience. For example, after a business trip, you might add “bring a journal for notes” because you prefer it over your phone.

How to Create a Packing List Form

Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating your packing list form:

Step 1: Identify the Trip Type and Duration

Knowing the kind of trip helps you know what to pack, and knowing how long helps you know the size of your luggage. You should also consider the destination’s climate and culture (e.g., beach vs. city, formal events vs. casual outings). For example, A 5-day business trip to a cold city will need professional attire, a laptop, and warm layers, while a beach vacation requires swimwear, sunscreen, and sandals.

Step 2: Categorize Items into Sections

Break your list into logical categories to stay organized such as

• Clothing (tops, bottoms, underwear, outerwear)
• Toiletries (toothbrush, skincare, medications)
• Electronics (phone, charger, power bank)
• Documents (passport, tickets, hotel reservations)
• Miscellaneous (snacks, travel pillow, reusable water bottle)

Step 3: List Specific Items Under Each Category

Don’t assume you will remember, write out all the details, e.g, instead of writing “clothes,” write “4 shirts, 2 shorts, 1 jacket, 2 pants”

Step 4: Include Checkboxes to Mark Items as Packed

Using checkboxes (☐) lets you tick items off as you pack. It gives you an instant picture of everything you have covered and the remaining items you need to pack.

Step 5: Review and Revise the List for Completeness

Double-check your list against your itinerary, e.g, did you pack everything you need for the ski trip?  Also, save a copy of your list and use it for reference for your next trip. For example, let’s say you packed everything for a camping trip but realized after getting there that you needed extra batteries. Add a note that says next time, pack extra batteries.

Essential Components of a Packing List Form

Here’s everything you need to create your packing list form:

• Trip Information: This includes the trip destination, dates of travel, and weather forecast
• Categories: This lists out all the specifics of your luggage, e.g, clothing as a category to include items like tops, bottoms, underwear, socks, and outerwear. 
• Additional details: emergency contact, packing tips, and reminders, open-ended notes, etc

Free Packing List Template

The formplus packing list template is a customizable and downloadable template that allows you to create a checklist for all the items you need for your trip. It helps you specify the items you need and the quantity. You can also track your requisition process by looking at the responses dashboard.

How to Use the Template

Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating your packing list form with Formplus:

• Go to the Trip Planning template
• Edit the form’s questions to fit your travel needs
• Customize the form’s look and feel by changing its theme, color, or font.
• Print and download the form
• Tick the form as you pack

Tips for Effective Packing

Here are some best practices to ensure you pack everything you need:

• Prioritize Essentials: Focus on must-have items and avoid overpacking.
• Use Packing Aids: Utilize packing cubes, compression bags, and organizers. 
• Check Airline Regulations: Be aware of carry-on and checked luggage restrictions.
• Practice Smart Packing: Roll clothes to save space, use travel-sized toiletries, and keep important items in your carry-on.

The Bottom Line

Packing shouldn’t be a nightmare. A packing list form removes the anxiety of packing, saves money, and cuts stress. So, even if you’re a frequent traveler or a travel business helping clients prepare for their trip, a packing list template ensures that you always pack smart.

Here’s a free template to get you started!