The Ultimate Guide To The Best Packing List Apps

Are you tired of forgetting important items when packing for the next trip? Do you want to stay organised and ensure you have everything you need for your next adventure? Look no further!

This comprehensive guide will explore the best packing list apps available to help you streamline your packing process and ensure you never leave anything behind.

Whether you are planning a weekend getaway or a month-long expedition, these apps will revolutionise your packing experience and keep you stress-free throughout your journey. So, let's dive in!

  1. PackPoint - Best For Smart Packing Assistance
  2. One Bag - Best For Minimalist Travellers
  3. Packteo - Best For Family and Group Travel
  4. Packr - Best For Travelers with Multiple Destinations
  5. PackKing - Best For Adventure and Outdoor Trips
  6. Packing Pro - Best For Business Travel and Professionals
  7. Easy Pack - Best For User-Friendly Interface

1. PackPoint

Website: packpnt.com

Download: Google Play | App Store

If you are looking for one of the best packing list apps available, PackPoint is the first to be mentioned. 

PackPoint considers your final location, departure date, length of stay, and activities when creating your packing list. It also considers the forecast when suggesting how many shirts or pants you will need. This takes the guesswork out of packing and ensures you have enough clothing for your trip.

The app also offers a streamlined design and user-friendly interface, making packing a breeze. It's available for both iOS and Android platforms, and its integration with other travel apps like TripIt and list-sharing with friends and family makes it a comprehensive solution for your packing needs.

While the paid version costs $2.99 annually, the app's long list of great features makes it a worthwhile investment for frequent travellers who want a customised packing list. 

2. One Bag

Website: onebag.app

Download: Google Play 

OneBag is hands down the best packing list app for minimalist travellers. It understands the importance of packing light and keeping everything in one bag, just like we do!

You can easily create custom packing lists for different types of trips. It's super convenient because you can add items to your personal inventory, allowing you to build your packing list effortlessly every time you travel.

But here's the real advantage: OneBag lets you input the weight of each item. That means it automatically adds everything for you, so you can easily check if you exceed your airline's weight limit. No more last-minute surprises at the airport!

Even better, your items are neatly categorised, so you can see which part of your packing list can be lightened to stay within the baggage limit. It's like having a personal packing assistant right in your pocket.

If there's room for improvement, users have suggested a search function, decimal grams, and the option to create inventory templates. But even without these features, OneBag is already a well-thought-out and well-designed app that'll make your travel preparations a breeze.

3. Packteo

Website: packteo

Download: Google Play 

Regarding packing list apps, PackTeo is a great option that deserves consideration for the title of the best. It has 4.32 stars out of 5 based on customer reviews on Google Play.

First, it allows you to add items in multiple ways. You can pick items from a general catalogue, type them in yourself, or use a list generator that creates lists based on your travel details. This makes creating a personalised packing list tailored to your specific needs easy.

Moreover, its user-friendly design makes it easy to use, regardless of your packing style. The app's pre-made templates let you select from categories like "Camping," "Cycling," and "International" and then modify them to fit your needs. 

You can also write out your packing list by hand and include as much information as you like, such as the quantity and weight of each item and the specific bag they will go in.

Plus, the app will inquire as to the number of products, their total weight, and the type of bag you want to use. This way, you'll be able to see what you're bringing at a glance and plan accordingly.

4. Packr

Website: packr.app

Download: App Store

Another great packing list app to consider is Packr. It is perfect for multi-destination trips, as it allows you to select as many destinations as you like.

We recommend Packr Premium (which will cost you $2.99 per month) has several powerful extra features that are well worth the investment. Here's the breakdown.

First, it gives you a detailed 10-day weather forecast for your chosen locations. The app's "family mode" is another selling point. It allows you and your families to plan over 25 activities and lists together.

Ah, don’t forget to make use of its “nearby attractions” as well. Packr will show you museums, parks, and other sights in the area when you enter your travel plans into the app. Simply browse through the list and add any attractions that interest you to your itinerary.

Its flexibility is also a plus. You can create unlimited lists for different needs and trips and reuse them over and over again. This makes it easy to stay organised and prepared for any type of trip, whether it is a quick weekend getaway or a long-term adventure.

5. PackKing

Download: App Store

The next name on our list of the best packing list apps is PackKing. It is easy to use and offers automatic recommendations based on your gender, mode of transportation, expected weather, and planned activities. 

You can scroll through different lists, such as "Gadgets," "Hygiene," and "Clothing," to find what you need quickly. One of the app's best features is its "To-Do's" section, which helps you prepare for your trip in addition to packing.

PackKing supports various activities, including international travel, outdoor activities like hiking, and even self-providing trips. The app also offers packing recommendations for different modes of transportation and climates, making it a versatile and valuable tool.

6. Packing Pro

Website: packingpro.asp

Download: App Store

For those travelling with a large group, Packing Pro is an excellent packing list app you might want to check out. You should take advantage of its extensive list of items covering everything from clothing to electronics to toiletries. 

The app also offers a "Master Catalog" with over 800 items, so you can easily find what you need and add it to your list. You can customise your lists with images, alerts, and a list of priorities. Once you have completed your list, you can print or email it, sync it to iCloud, or export it into Excel, Numbers, or Google Docs.

The only downside of Packing Pro is its overall design, which some users may find unattractive and outdated. However, this app might be perfect for you if you prioritise functionality and features over form.

7. Easy Pack

Download: Google Play

Easy Pack is listed as one of the best packing list apps for those wanting a lightweight, free solution. It considers unique details about your upcoming trips, such as whether you are travelling with pets, the type of stay, and any transportation concerns.

Moreover, the app doubles as a daily planning app that can help you prepare for mundane activities closer to home, like packing for a day at the beach or taking your dog on a hike. 

Easy Pack's "Assistant" section accommodates digital nomads and long-term travellers. You can create a generic "bag" not tied to any particular destination or timeline but based on more general travel details like who you're travelling with, the types of transportation you'll use, and the activities you plan to engage in.

How To Make Most Of Using Packing List Apps

And that’s our selection of the best packing apps. Now come the tips and tricks to make full use of their features. 

1. Create Lists for Different Types of Trips

Depending on the type of trip you're going on (e.g., vacation, business, camping), create different lists or templates to cater to specific needs. A beach vacation will require different items than a ski trip. Ask yourself these questions:

  • Where am I travelling?
  • What’s the weather at the destination like?
  • Who am I travelling with?
  • Will there be young children in the group?
  • How long am I going? A week? A month?
  • What bag/suitcase am I using?

For instance, if you are going to travel for a month, you will need to pack a 40L backpack full to the brim. Are you going to a winter wonderland? Throw in more layers and a jacket! Is your destination warm and sunshine all year round? Don’t hesitate to pack more sunscreen. Create as many lists as you need and make the appropriate changes.

2. Categorise, categorise, categorise

best packing list apps

You can check your packing list app on your phone to add or change items. Photo by Parichat on stock.adobe.com

Categorising is the bones of every packing list app. By breaking down all your belongings into categories and sub-categories, it’s easier to keep track of everything.

Passports, ID, medicines, etc., anything you can’t live (or travel) without, throw them into a dedicated "always in the bag" list. Make this checklist stay at the top of your packing app list. That way, you won’t ever forget them. Here’s what our packing list would look like:

  • The Essentials
  • Main Bag
  • Day Bag
  • Toiletries
  • Personal Care And Hygiene
  • Medications And First Aid
  • Electronics
  • Additional Supplies
  • Miscellaneous

Here are some ideas for sub-categories you may need to add further:

  • If you are camping:
    • Outdoor Gear
    • Foods And Drinks
    • Cooking And Kitchen Gear
    • Campsite Setup
    • Navigation And Safety
  • If you are travelling with someone:
    • Anything that you two could share, e.g. toothpaste, sunscreen, etc.
  • If you are on a business trip:
    • Formal attire
    • Documents
    • Laptop
    • Work Gear
    • Work Supplies
  • If you travel with children:
    • Feeding Essentials
    • Entertainment And Comfort Items
    • Diapers And Diapering Supplies
    • Child Health And Safety
    • Baby Carrier And Infant Essentials
  • If you travel for photography:
    • Camera Equipment
    • Storage and Memory
    • Camera Bag
    • Lighting Equipment
    • Photography Books and Resources

3.  Review and Refine

You can take advantage of packing list applications by keeping your lists up-to-date depending on your past trips. Think back on what you used and didn't use on past journeys. Pack only the necessities, consider any requirements of your destination, and ask other travellers for advice. The key here is packing neither too much or too little.

FAQs

1. Are Packing List Apps Only Suitable For Long Trips?

No, packing list apps are beneficial for all types of short or long trips. These apps help you stay organised and ensure you don't forget any essentials, regardless of the duration of your journey. Everything could be tailored to your liking.

2. Can I Customise The Packing Lists In These Apps?

Yes, all the featured packing list apps in this guide allow customisation. You can add or remove items, create separate lists for different occasions, and tailor the lists to your specific needs.

3. Can I Use These Apps Offline?

Many packing list apps offer offline functionality, allowing you to access your lists even when you don't have an internet connection. However, checking the specific app's features and requirements is essential before relying on offline access.

4. Do These Apps Have Reminders or Notifications?

Yes, many packing list apps provide reminder and notification features. You can set reminders for packing specific items or receive notifications for upcoming trips, ensuring you stay on top of your packing game.

Bottom Line

Packing for a vacation can be a breeze with the help of packing list apps. From creating custom lists to tracking your progress, these apps simplify the entire process, ensuring you don't forget any essential items. 

If you love to plan every aspect of your trip or prefer a more laid-back approach, the best packing list apps mentioned in this article have something for everyone. 

Don't forget to like and share this article if you found it helpful! And if you want to read more packing tips for your next adventure, let us know by leaving a comment below. We'd be happy to provide more information to make your next trip successful.

Ha Ngan


Leave a comment

Please note, comments must be approved before they are published

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.