Checklists: Making Life (and packing) Easier

Today, I want to talk about one of the simplest yet powerful productivity tools around—a tool that doesn’t need fancy tech or special tools or systems. That tool is simply a checklist.  

My husband flies planes and uses a checklist (many, actually) each time he flies. From the walkaround on the plane to the takeoff checklist and the post-flight list, he makes sure he does the same thing each time to ensure his and my safety. Checklists are essential in business.  

However, I thought we would use the power of the checklist in a fun way in this blog, significantly how a simple checklist can transform the way you prepare for travel. I recently returned from a trip to Portugal, and as I prepared for the trip, I didn’t stress too much about packing. I didn’t stress because I had my packing checklist.  

In this post, we’ll explore the psychology behind checklists, the specific advantages of travel packing lists, and some tips on creating the ultimate travel packing list tailored to your needs. The next time you travel, you can pull out your trusted checklist and make your trip easier and less stressful.  

The Psychology of Checklists: Why They Work

Checklists are more than just a way to keep track of tasks—they provide mental clarity and peace of mind. Research shows that creating a checklist relieves cognitive load, allowing the brain to focus on higher-level tasks instead of holding onto minor details. By breaking down tasks into a series of small, manageable steps, checklists make complex processes (like packing for a trip) feel more organized and achievable.

Here’s why checklists are so effective:

1. Reduce Cognitive Overload: With multiple things to remember, we can easily feel overwhelmed. A checklist allows us to “offload” these items from our minds, reducing stress.
2. Encourage Consistency: A checklist ensures nothing essential is left out, making the process reliable and repeatable.
3. Boost Confidence: Knowing you haven’t missed anything boosts your confidence, allowing you to focus on your client, your trip, or whatever you might be doing.
4. Prevent Last-Minute Panic: A checklist minimizes the chance of scrambling at the last minute because you remembered something you missed, making everything smoother. 

I love checklists for all my business processes. I have checklists for client onboarding, delivery, and offboarding, as well as checklists for month-end and year-end processes. They truly are the secret sauce to creating consistent quality in your business. Now, let’s see how these benefits translate to travel packing specifically.

Why Travel Packing Lists Are Essential

Regarding travel, a packing list has become my most important tool. From toiletries and clothing to travel documents and tech, there are a lot of items to consider, and forgetting even a single item can have inconvenient (and costly) consequences. Here’s why a travel packing checklist is especially valuable:

• Eliminate Stress and Anxiety: Packing for a trip often feels like a mental juggling act. A list puts your mind at ease, ensuring you have a system that keeps everything under control.
• Adaptability for Different Trips: Every trip is different, whether it’s a beach holiday, a business trip, or an outdoor adventure. A customized packing list lets you easily adjust to each scenario.
• Saves Time: A ready-to-use checklist saves hours of second-guessing and repacking, letting you spend that time on other things.
• Prevents Unnecessary Purchases: Have you ever realized you forgot your toothbrush and ended up buying another one at the airport? A packing list prevents these unnecessary expenses by ensuring that everything you need is accounted for.

As an entrepreneur, I have a lot to think about before I travel (see our next blog for more information on how I prepare for a trip), and my packing list helps me reduce stress and anxiety in this area. It allows me to focus on other, more important areas that need my attention. Let’s dive into the nitty-gritty of creating the perfect travel packing list.

How to Create the Ultimate Travel Packing List

Creating a packing list is simple, but crafting one that’s tailored to your needs takes a bit of thought and planning. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you create a comprehensive, customized travel packing list.

1. Start with the Essentials

Begin by listing all the essentials that apply to any trip, regardless of destination. This will include:

• Travel documents: Passport, visa, driver’s license, boarding passes, tickets, hotel reservation printouts, and any other required paperwork.
• Wallet essentials: Credit cards, cash, and any loyalty or reward cards.
• Basic toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, hairbrush, and travel-size shampoo/conditioner.
• Personal items: Prescription medications, glasses, and any necessary medical items.
• Electronics: Phone, charger, headphones, and any travel adapters if traveling internationally.

This forms the core of your list, which consists of items you’d need no matter where you’re headed. Grab a notepad and brainstorm your list of essentials.   I recommend thinking through your normal routines. What items do you use?

2. Consider Your Destination’s Requirements

Next, think about your destination’s climate, culture, and specific needs:

• Weather-appropriate clothing: Check the forecast and pack accordingly. This could mean packing swimwear and sunscreen for a tropical beach or warm jackets and gloves for a snowy retreat.
• Destination-specific items: For instance, pack insect repellent for tropical areas or a reusable water bottle and trail shoes for hiking.
• Cultural considerations: In some countries, conservative attire might be necessary for visiting religious sites or public areas. Research beforehand to avoid any faux pas.

Consider the clothing and accessories you like to use. They should be light for packing and easy to mix and match.

3. Add Your Personal Comfort and Entertainment

Traveling comfortably is about more than just essentials. Think about what makes your trip enjoyable and less stressful:

• Comfort items: Neck pillow, sleep mask, or a cozy blanket scarf.
• Entertainment: Books, a tablet, or downloaded shows and music.
• Health essentials: Face masks, hand sanitizer, vitamins, or supplements you rely on.

4. Include Packing Organizers and Essentials

Staying organized while on the go can be a game-changer. Include items that streamline your packing and unpacking:

• Packing cubes: These help compress clothing, making everything easy to find.
• Laundry bag: Keeps used clothing separate from clean clothes.
• Reusable bags: Handy for carrying extra items or as a backup if your bag doesn’t meet carry-on size requirements.

Other things you might not think about: baggies (I always travel with a few baggies—they come in handy), a Swiss army knife (you would be surprised how often I’ve needed a knife or corkscrew and have been thankful I have it in my toiletry bag), and wet naps (the uses for these little guys are endless). 

5. Prepare for the “What-Ifs”

A packing list isn’t complete without contingency items for those unexpected situations:

• Basic first aid kit: Band-aids, pain relievers, and any other over-the-counter medications you might need.
• Extra copies of documents: In case of loss, make copies of important documents and store them in a different location within your luggage.
• Emergency contact information: Include contacts for your destination’s embassy or consulate and emergency services.

6. Organize and Review Your Checklist

Before you start packing, organize your list into categories, such as “Clothing,” “Toiletries,” “Documents,” and “Electronics.” Reviewing it once more helps you identify anything missing and lets you mentally prepare for the trip.

Tips for Using Your Travel Packing List Effectively

A well-prepared list is only as good as your follow-through. Here’s how to make the most of your travel packing list:

• Check off items as you pack: Going through the checklist item by item helps you ensure that nothing is overlooked.
• Review it before heading home: When packing to return, use the list again to ensure you haven’t left anything behind.
• Update and improve over time: After each trip, refine your list based on what you used, didn’t need, or forgot. This will make future packing even easier.

My first packing list was missing items. I’ve since added to it to improve it. After each trip, I review and tweak it. I start with my master list and then adjust it for the place and duration of my trip.  

If you pack for multiple people, create a checklist for them as well. 

Wrapping Up: Let Checklists Empower Your Next Adventure or Process

A travel packing list may seem like a small detail, but it has the potential to transform your travel experience. By eliminating stress, keeping you organized, and ensuring nothing is forgotten, a checklist gives you the confidence to enjoy your trip fully. The beauty of checklists is their adaptability—you can tweak your packing list to fit the needs of any journey, refining it as you go.

Use the lessons of a travel checklist to create checklists you can use in your business. The power of a checklist is not limited to travel; it can have the same benefits for all the processes you repeat.  

So, the next time you’re preparing for a trip (or onboarding a new client), take a few moments to create your checklist. With your essentials in order, all that’s left to do is relax and enjoy the journey ahead. Happy travels!

Instead they choose to accept their fallibilities.
They recognised the simplicity and power of using a checklist.

Atul Gawande

Acuity Path Membership:

If you are looking for a Mastermind, I invite you to look at the Acuity Path Growth and Clarity Membership. Each includes a Mastermind group, access to our monthly working sprint and business clarity planning session, and more. Learn more here https://acuitypath.ca/mastermind/

Let’s stay connected. I offer monthly tips to help you with productivity and self-leadership.

Want to learn more about how I can help? I offer a free 0-minute strategy session. Book HERE