Mastering the Art of Packing: How Laminated Lists Can Simplify Your Travel Plans

Written By Benjamin Whitworth

Mastering the Art of Packing: How Laminated Lists Can Simplify Your Travel Plans

Traveling can be both exciting and stressful, especially when it comes to packing. Over the years, I've developed a system that has made packing a breeze: laminated packing lists. These lists are not only durable but also customisable for different types of trips. Here's how you can create your own laminated packing lists to ensure you never forget an essential item again.

Why Laminated Lists?

Laminated lists are a game-changer for several reasons:

  • Durability: They can withstand the wear and tear of frequent use.

  • Reusability: You can use a dry-erase marker to check off items and then wipe it clean for the next trip.

  • Customisation: Tailor your lists to different types of trips, ensuring you have everything you need.

Step-by-Step Guide to Creating Laminated Packing Lists

1. Categorise Your Trips

Start by identifying the different types of trips you take. Common categories might include:

  • Weekend Getaways

  • Business Trips

  • Beach Vacations

  • Camping Adventures

  • International Travel

2. Make Detailed Lists

For each category, create a detailed list of items you'll need. Here are some examples:

Weekend Getaway:

  • Clothing: 2 outfits, sleepwear, underwear, socks

  • Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, travel-sized shampoo and conditioner

  • Miscellaneous: Phone charger, book, snacks

Camping Adventure:

  • Clothing: Outdoor gear, extra layers, sturdy shoes

  • Equipment: Tent, sleeping bag, flashlight, portable stove

  • Essentials: First aid kit, insect repellent, water bottles

3. Design Your Lists

Use a word processor or design software to create visually appealing lists. Include checkboxes next to each item for easy tracking.

4. Laminate Your Lists

Print your lists on high-quality paper and laminate them. You can do this at home with a laminating machine or at a local office supply store.

5. Use and Update

Keep your laminated lists in a convenient place, like your luggage or travel drawer. Use a dry-erase marker to check off items as you pack. After each trip, wipe the lists clean and store them for next time.

Customising Lists for Different Kits

One of the best aspects of laminated lists is the ability to customise them for different pieces of kit depending on the trip. For example, your camping list might include specific gear like a portable stove and sleeping bag, while your beach vacation list could have items like sunscreen and beach towels. Tailoring your lists to the unique requirements of each trip ensures you have everything you need without overpacking.

Benefits of Laminated Packing Lists

Using laminated packing lists has transformed my travel preparation. I no longer stress about forgetting something important, and I can quickly adapt my packing to the specific needs of each trip. Plus, the satisfaction of checking off items as I pack is incredibly rewarding!

My Final Thoughts!

Creating laminated packing lists is a simple yet effective way to streamline your travel preparations. By categorizing your trips, making detailed lists, and laminating them for durability, you'll always be ready for your next adventure.

Happy travels People!




So these are my essential items I pack and take with me as you never know when you might need them. So here I have the following;-

- 2 × 2Lt Dry Bags (Great for keeping things dry ‘re but also good at keeping sand out. As sand can cause real damage to your tech or optics, so these are a must. I also have bigger sizes as well.

- Hydration Flask - Its always an essential part of your packing routine as you need to stay hydrated, especially if you’re in a hot and humid country, these are fantastic as when empty they don’t take up much room in your luggage.

- Mobile Phone waterproof case and lanyard. Mobile phones are becoming more and more waterproof and many people risk taking their phones with them when they are at the beach or even kayaking. Where these cases come in handy is when you’re are on the water and you have your phone around your neck it means that if you accidentally drop it, it won’t end up at the bottom of the ocean floor. Plus, again your phone maybe waterproof but they aren’t sand proof and sand gets everywhere, I would recommend for sure!!

- Something many people don’t know about when wild swimming in the sea or in open water, is that you can purchase these Inflatable Water Buoys. You can put things in there like your phone and then inflate and seal it. Then you can attach it to yourself and it will follow you as you swim. However, these come into their own if you become tired or you are far out and in distress. They allow you to use they as a floatation device and will keep you above water and allow you to rest. I would totally recommend one of these.

Most of these items I sell in my online Shop, so go check them out!!

So this is my basic kit that I always take when going away, as you never know when you might need it. Here you can see a range of different pieces of equipment for various activities. For example;-

- Range of Various Knifes at various sizes. One is a special edition Swiss silver Swiss army knife and the others are different sizes and have different uses.

- Next to the knifes is a flint and striker that can be used to start a fire if out and about.

- To the left of the flint is a bracelet that is made of paracord as you never know when you might need some. It’s so convenient to have around you wrist just in case.

- To the left and below is a pair of compact Ice Crampons, just in case you need to walk on any icy surface. These were invaluable in Iceland when we were on the Glacier. I won’t say who forgot bring their brand new pair hehe.

- Next to the Crampons is a folding light. It is LED and very bright. It has three functions with regards to the brightness and then it also can signal SOS over and over if you’re trying to attract attention.

- Next is a LED Strip Head-Torch. This is a great bit of kit. It has different strenths’s of light, its USB-C rechargeable and it also has a function that when you wave your hand in front of it, it turns it self off and do it again and it comes back on.

- Next is a wire cutter that allows you to cut through logs or branches to start a fire for example.

- The two black objects they are battery powered hand warmers. They Charge by USB-C and they have 4 settings depending how cold you are. Great bit of kit.

- Below that in the little bag is a mighty must for your kit bag and that is a mosquito head net. This is a must if you’re in Scotland in Summer or you’re in Africa, it is a must for my kit bag for sure.

- We then have some different strength carabiners for various things. The green rope allows you to be safe just in case.

- Last but not least is one of my Solar Panels that charges anything, just attach it to your back pack and you can make sure that the Power banks or your electronics are charged, and remember just because there is cloud doesn’t mean the solar pane wont work!!

Benjamin Whitworth https://www.thegaybipolaradventurer.co.uk