Packing List System

I am the type of person that likes to have systems in place to make things easier.  Years ago I realized every time my family would plan a trip I would write out a list of everything we would need to pack so I could make sure we didn’t forget to pack anything.  I don’t know how many times I wrote out these lists before I realized they were basically the same, with some exceptions depending on where we were going so why did I keep rewriting the same list?  I moved my list into tables in word documents and created different ones as needed.  We have a general packing list, one for our ski trips, and one for visiting family down south.  Now when we start planning a trip I just print out the appropriate list and have the girls start gathering their items on the list. When they were younger I would tell them the item I needed such as a bathing suit and have them bring it to me to pack.  The nice thing about the list is I can add to it easily when we find something we should have brought with us such as a power strip or nightlight. We also invested in those travel space bags, this way we can take smaller suitcases and still keep them within the weight limits when flying. The bags are also nice when coming home with wet and dirty items to keep them away from any clothes that are still clean.  Just make sure the bags are the type you can smush to get the air out and not need a vacuum. What do you do to make traveling easier?  Please share your tips below!