Hi, friend! I’m Maira, with Vial Designs, bringing you this tutorial as an Archer & Olive Ambassador. You can find me on Patreon, YouTube, and Instagram, as @vialdesigns.
Let's be honest, there’s nothing worse than starting a vacation stressed because you’re worried you forgot to pack something. It’s exhausting! I finally figured out how to outsource that stress to my journal, and today, I’m showing you how to create the ultimate master packing list in your bullet journal so that packing for your next trip is a breeze.
This single spread will help you pack more efficiently, never forget the essentials, and actually enjoy the buildup to your next adventure.
Tools I Used:
You truly don’t need fancy supplies for this. Use what you already have.
I’m using Archer & Olive supplies off course, and you can save 10% with my code VD10 at checkout.
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Archer & Olive dot grid journal. Treasure Map Notebook - Travelers Notebook.
- Monograph pens
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Pencil + eraser
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Fineline pens
- Optional: Free Packling Checklist and Master Packing List Printable (download it at the end of this blog post).
Why should you have a "Master" Packing List?
Think of this as your "Home Base" for travel. Instead of making a brand-new list every single time you go somewhere, you make one big list that stays in your journal forever.
Whether you’re heading to the beach or the mountains, you’ll always look at this one page first. It’s your safety net.
How to Set Up Your Master Packing List (Step-by-Step)
You don’t need to be a pro artist to do this. You want this list to be helpful, not complicated!
So let’s break the process down…
1. The "Brain Dump."
Before you write anything in your journal, grab a scrap piece of paper or a notepad. Spend five minutes writing down every single thing you’ve ever packed. Don't worry about the order—just get it all out of your head and onto the paper.
2. Group Your Items
Now that you have everything on paper, let’s make that mess look organized.
The printable I put together for you is full of ideas and things that I usually pack for my trips.
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Important/Documents: Passport, ID, tickets, wallet, hotel booking, and other important info.
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Electronics: Phone, chargers, power bank, headphones.
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Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, sunscreen, deodorant, lotion, hairbrush, skincare, makeup, and personal care items.
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Clothing: Outfits, underwear, sleepwear, socks, shoes, bathing suits, outerwear, dresses.
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Health: first aid kit, vitamins, medications, supplements, travel snacks.
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Comfort/miscellaneous items: journal/notebook, pens, stationery, travel hygiene kit, waterbottle, books, travel pillow, hat/cap, sunglasses, bug spray, etc.
3. Make the Master Packing List in Your Bullet Journal + Add decor
Now it's time to transfer all the information into your bullet journal.
Since we love a good spread, feel free to add some simple doodles.
I like to add creative touches and make my spreads fun whenever possible. It’s an added excuse for me to be creative while keeping things functional. If you need some ideas of doodles to add to your spread, I created the cover page full of adorable “kwaii-inspired” travel doodles.
You can draw them yourself or grab the printable I created for you.
Pro Tips:
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Leave Some "White Space."
When you're transferring the categories into your spread, make sure you leave some white space. We can always think of something we forgot. Leave 3 or 4 empty lines under every category. You will definitely think of things later, or your travel style might change. You want this list to have room to grow with you!
2. Use the printable for extra decor.
Print the cover page several times and use the doodles to decorate other pages in your bullet journal.
If you set your printing “scale” to 70%, it will print the cover page at a smaller size, and it will fit your A5 or TN journals.
How to Use The Master Packing List Like a Pro
When it’s finally time to pack for a trip, follow the master packing list.
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Add the name of the place you’re traveling to at the top of the spread (like "Weekend in Chicago").
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Gather the things you need for that trip.
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Check things off on the spread as you’re packing.
Watch The Master Packing List Video Tutorial
Get the Free Printable Below
You can download the free Master Travel List Cover Page and Checklist printable here [insert printable here].
Final Thoughts
I hope this master packing list can help you bring peace of mind the next time you have to pack for a trip.
Remember, your bullet journal is meant to reduce stress, not add to it. Don't worry if your packing spread isn't perfect. Its job is to remember your phone charger so you don't have to.
I want to hear from you! What is the one item you ALWAYS have to bring on your trip? Let me know in the comments below!
If you create a Master Packing List inside your journal, be sure to tag me @vialdesigns and @archerandolive — we would love to see your creative traveling bullet journal spreads!
Thank you for spending some creative time with me today! See you in the next tutorial 💛
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