• Some people are list people. They make lists for everything. To-do lists, chore lists, reading lists, packing lists -- you name it. Even if you don't fall into that group, a packing list is a powerful trip-planning tool. With a well-prepared list, you can prevent that desperate packing moment when a few items that really need to make it into your suitcase just don't fit.
  
  

Use Categories and Be Specific

• One of the most fundamental tasks of the human mind is to classify objects and concepts into categories. A packing list should not be a loose reminder to pack your phone charger, a pair of slacks and an extra memory card. Organize your list into sections: clothes, shoes and outerwear, documents and money, books and entertainment, electronics, and toiletries; also include medications and first-aid items. List specific items in each category. Instead of sweater, choose one and write "brown v-neck J. Crew sweater," for example. Categories allow you to focus and to clear your mind of all of the items you must pack, while specific entries let you check for synergy, redundancy and remaining needs within each area.
  
  

Stick to Your Itinerary

• It's tempting to take along items such as your new favorite dress or trusty cross trainers because you like them or wear them often. On many trips, however, you will be in an environment that requires clothes that are different from your day-to-day attire. Let your destination and purpose for traveling serve as the foremost guide in assembling your list, especially where clothing is concerned. Business trips or conferences, particularly in high-fashion cities such as New York, London or Milan, require you to pack your best suits and leave the comfortable jeans at home. On the other hand, a trip to a conservative-dressing country in the Middle East or Asia will necessitate an attention to hem length on pants, skirts and shirts.
  
  

Plan Carry-On Bags

• Instead of a general packing list, use lists for each separate bag that you plan to bring, even your purse or laptop bag. Certain objects may be in your primary bag or purse every day -- medications, gadgets, important paperwork -- but it pays to make yourself double check that these items are there, and that they are packed in the right bag. Women often carry makeup or other liquid personal items in their purses at all times. Without repacking these carry-on bags, you may unwittingly bring prohibited items through a security checkpoint and get them confiscated.
  
  

Review TSA Regulations

• In 2010, 2.2 million prohibited items were brought to security checkpoints every day, according to Sun Sentinel. Even if you are traveling with legitimate medications that are permissible under TSA guidelines due to need, you may require a printed prescription or extra information from your doctor to carry them on board. Items confiscated by TSA agents at checkpoints can be shipped back to your home, but you will have to pay for shipping and waste time getting to your boarding gate. Although restrictions often change following a publicized security threat, such as September 11 or the attempted bombing on Christmas day in 2009, not all security procedure changes will appear in the news. Double check what is and is not allowed when you make your list to avoid inconveniences down the line.