Having an excellent memory isn’t the same thing as being organized, although sometimes having a good system can certainly make the impression that you never forget anything! I discovered this packing list at the Container Store and now I use it whenever I’m packing for an overnight trip. Whether it’s for a one-night business trip or a 2 week vacation, this list has literally everything you could think of, plus space to write in the quantity of things you want to pack (i.e. t-shirts). Before I ever start packing, I write down everything I am going to need. If I think of something else I need as I’m packing, I write it down too. That way, you can rely on your list, not your memory. When you’re done packing, scan the list again to be sure that you haven’t forgotten anything.
If there’s something you can’t pack til the morning, such as a toothbrush, be sure to have a “before you go” list, that includes any last-minute toiletries or things to do like “turn off coffee-pot,” “set thermostat,” etc. That way you won’t be wondering, “Did I close the garage door?” as you’re driving to the airport.
Having a list frees your mind to worry about other things, so make a list and check it twice!
I also came across this handy packing list on Daily Candy. If you have a favorite checklist, please feel free to share it in the comments!
Feisty Girl 
I am the queen of lists! If I don’t make one, I’m always left wondering what I could have forgotten (and I almost always do forget something). The “before you go” list is a great idea, too. Who can think at 6am when you’re rushing out for that morning flight? Great post!
Brilliant! I have scraps of paper all over my apartment with random lists of things to do/pack/etc when I’m planning a trip. This is much more efficient!