Frequently asked questions
Short and honest: what the app does, what it does not, and where things get stuck. If an answer is missing, write via the contact page.
Basics
What is Packlist?
A packing list that remembers. You build a list once or compose it from templates, check things off the evening before you leave, and next time it is already there – as a template, or to pack again.
Does it cost anything?
No. There are no tiers, no subscription and no ads.
Do I need an account?
Yes, but only an email address. Without an account nothing can be saved – a list that vanished when the browser closed would not be a packing list.
Why is there no password?
Because you should not have to remember one. You enter your email address and receive a mail with a sign-in link and a six-digit code; either signs you in. The session then lasts 30 days.
The sign-in mail does not arrive – what now?
Check your spam folder and the spelling of the address. Link and code are valid for 15 minutes; after that, simply request a new mail. If nothing arrives after a few minutes, write via the contact page.
Packing and templates
How do I combine templates into one list?
On the templates page press “Select”, tap the templates that fit – say beach holiday, standard toiletry bag and electronics – and create the list. Sections with the same name are merged and duplicate items dropped; you see the count before you confirm.
How does a list become a template?
“Save as template” in the list’s menu – or for a single section, in the section’s menu. The template takes the structure without the checks. Once a list is fully packed, its header offers this directly.
What happens when I archive a list?
It leaves the board and stays readable in the archive, checks and all. There you can review it, pack it again or bring it back. Nothing is deleted.
What is the review?
Two questions asked of an archived list: what did you not need, what was missing? The answers stay on the list, and “Pack again” and “Save as template” apply them – what was not needed stays behind, what was missing comes along.
How do I get a deleted list back?
Under “Archive” in the navigation: deleted lists and templates stay in the trash for 30 days and can be restored there. After that they are deleted for good.
Can I change the order?
Yes. “Sort” on a list switches to a mode in which you drag sections and items; while it is open, nothing gets checked off. “Done” saves the order.
Data and account
Where is my data kept?
On a server in Germany. What is stored is your email address and what you create: lists, sections, items, templates. None of it is sold or used for advertising; which services take part, such as sending mail, the privacy notice describes exactly.
Can I export my data or delete my account?
Yes, both yourself: in the account menu under “Account” you download all lists and own templates as a file, or delete your account with everything in it – at once and for good.
How do I sign out?
In the account menu, “Sign out”. On a device that is not yours you should – the session would otherwise last 30 days.
Devices and language
Does it work on a phone?
That is what it is made for: the list works one-handed and the rows are big enough for a thumb. You can put the page on your home screen through your browser’s share menu; there is no separate app.
Is there an English version?
Yes, complete. The language follows your browser; at the foot of every public page and in the account menu you can switch it.
Light or dark?
Both. By default the app follows your system; in the account menu and at the foot of the public pages you can pin it.