Since we travel a lot, we have systematized our process of planning and packing for each trip. I use a tool called Todoist where I keep each of these tasks to check them off the list once complete.
We start with a todo list that can be done in the week leading up to a trip:
- Download media (onto phones and tablets primarily)
- Download maps and any digital documents for offline viewing
- Charge tablets (and any peripheral devices like keyboards)
- Charge any cameras, headphones, and game systems
- Charge any portable battery packs
- Charge our car jumper (just in case of a dead battery upon return)
- Set travel notices on any bank or credit cards (where applicable)
- Print any travel documents (hotel reservations, etc)
- Go to ATM (and potentially currency exchange) to have starting cash
- Schedule a “hold mail” with USPS
- Book airport parking (often cheaper if you book in advance)
For the packing itself, we use this list:
- Clothes (rolled tightly in packing cubes)
- Swimsuits (if applicable)
- Shoes / boots / sandals / water shoes
- Dopp kit and liquid bag
- Toothbrushes (we just keep these in the Dopp kit now)
- Hair brush(es) for adults and kids
- Any medicine, vitamins, and eye drops, etc
- Tablets / computers
- Game systems (Switch and DS + games and cables)
- Headphones / ear buds
- Cameras with charger / batteries
- Roku / Google Home / Chromecast (for longer trips)
- Wall chargers, cables, watch charger
- Electronic cable bag with power converter (if needed)
- Car charger / phone holder
- Portable battery pack(s)
- Snack bag (in a packing cube)
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen / face stick
- Travel documents
- Vaccination cards
- Passports (if needed)
- Notebook / crayons / rubber bands
- Magazines / books / Kindle
- Portable car seat (MiFold, if applicable)
- Bed pad (for younger kids)
- Plug-in cooler (for road trips)
- Umbrellas (if needed)
- Waterproof phone case (if needed)
- Any work devices (laptop, mouse, plugs)
Then we have a last-minute todo list for day of departure:
- Purge perishables from bowls and cabinets
- Purge perishables from the fridge
- Take out garbage
- Sweep and vacuum
- Close windows and pull shades
- Water any plants
- Mow the lawn
- Set Out of Office on work calendars
- Call the first hotel to let them know of a late arrival (if applicable)