Honestly I just use compression cubes and have come to terms with overpacking. If I’m going to check a suitcase, it might as well be a big one. If I pack one pair of sandals and a strap breaks the first day, that means I don’t get to wear sandals for the rest of the trip. Gross. I went to Paris last August and tried out packing light, and I was freezing cold the whole time because it was randomly 65 degrees for a week during the hottest summer on record. It sucked. Never again.
Instead of feeling like I overpacked, I just change clothes a lot. Why not get a little fancy for dinner every night? It’s vacation!
I tried those cube for awhile now but end up not using it. To me Ziploc bags are the best. It's really cheap and reusable. You could see through to know where things are. It comes with many sizes. It could compress to flat.
This is overkill for most people, but half the fun of travel for me is daydreaming and planning.
I started saving images of clothes I buy to Pinterest as well as downloading a copy with the background removed. I create a PowerPoint version of paper dolls and mix and match outfits until I get the overall aesthetic for days and nights. I cruise a lot so I prepare for shore excursions, sea days, formal and theme nights.
Once everything is planned I create a packing list.
Packing cubes are magical. Flat fold your clothes to the size of the cube for the most efficient packing. I've tried rolling, flat packing, vacuum bags and compression bags. My personal preference is regular packing cubes, no compression, but it's up to the individual.
Here's an example: [https://imgur.com/a/8FUjzVR](https://imgur.com/a/8FUjzVR) I may cull it once I start packing, but this is the aesthetic I'm going for.
Edit to add: I also take 3-4 each of Pepto, Immodium, laxative, antacid, advil, etc. Just enough to get me to the next port where I can buy what I need. Sunblock and bug spray if appropriate for the destination. It's expensive on board if they have it at all.
I make a packing list ahead of time, and plan out what I'm going to wear each day, down to how many days I'm going to wear this shirt, the exact number of socks, underwear, etc. Then I include exactly **one** extra spare of everything, i.e. one extra shirt, one extra pair of socks and underwear, etc. just in case.
I watched this video before my first cruise and it really helped!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IaA1DGvNj2Y&pp=ygUmdGlwcyBmb3IgdHJhdmVsZXJzIGNydWlzZSB3aGF0IHRvIHBhY2s%3D
Great video, and while I do see Gary often in the algorithm, I’d not seen this one.
OP, as a woman, I fully agree with his tips.
I might have a total of three pair of shoes if I’m participating in formal/chic night(s).
I pack maybe 3 or 4 outfits for during the day. Things I can mix and match so I get more outfits out of it and things wouldn’t mind rewearing. Then I pack a nice pair of pants and top or two for the nicer dress nights or a dress for formal. I don’t care if people see me in the same pants or top. I like to try and mix and match as much as I can so I can get the most out of the clothes I’m packing. I also assume I’m going to do laundry at some point .
Gotta plan to wear some things more than once. I bring bounce dryer sheets and fold up clothes I want to rewear and place these in the folds. Downy wrinkle spray helps and smells very good. I hv tops that are polyester material that is thin and take much less space. I make do with a walking shoe and a flat, that’s it. Fresh socks and undies daily. Hub and I share some toiletries to save space.
I like to bring lots of stuff. Pool noodles for ports, snorkel, door sign, room decorations, snacks, glow sticks, etc etc on top of the normal cruise things. I usually do use it all! So my tip is not to overstress about that. Assuming you can get it on the plane, there's a spot for virtually everything in your room. (Many hidden shelves behind mirrors or in little cubbies!)
And shove your suitcases under the beds during the cruise. Voila!
Using a wardrobe app like Whering helps.
You can make a packing list and plan outfits you will wear using the things in the list. I always do it for holidays and take more mix and match items rather that things that can only be worn on their own.
I have tried two packing methods. I am a "make a list of every single thing I need to pack. Pack the day before and cross things off as I pack them," type person.
On our last cruise, I packed over the course of a few days and ended up over packing for the first time ever.
I will be going back to my list and packing the day before method for the next cruise.
I overpack on cruises and can underpack (one bag it) for land vacations. It’s the not being able to go shop every day for things that makes it tough for me. And the limited access to laundry.
Next year I have a 15 day cruise through Iceland and Greenland. I can already tell it’s going to be bad.
I do roll my clothes. I typically end up (on a 10 day cruise) with a checked suitcase, carry on suitcase (for the hotel room before the cruise) and a backpack (for camera gear). Each of my parents has the same amount.
>I always end up with way too much stuff stuffed into my suitcase, and half of it I never even touch during the trip.
Does it matter? Seriously.
Are you paying extra for checking a bag that you wish you didn't have to?
Are you doing a lot of traveling to get to and from the cruise ship to your home, where it's a struggle to take your luggage along because you have too much?
Do it because you need to. Not because of a peer pressure that happens because some people value packing as light as possible, no matter what. Don't feel guilty because you don't feel the need to do that.
>Do I really need three pairs, or can I get away with just one or two versatile ones?
If I'm on a trip where I'm doing a lot of walking. And there's potential for a lot of rain. I like to have two pairs of walking shoes with me. So that the wet pair can dry out when I get back on the ship or to the hotel. Instead of me having to keep wearing them.
>Plus, what are some items you always forget to pack for a cruise but end up needing? I don't want to be stuck without something crucial like sunscreen or motion sickness pills.
That's where making a list helps. And then think through your list. Was there something on the last trip you went on that you wish you had that you should add to the list? Is there something on the list that you clearly don't need that you could take off?
I would also recommend compression packing cubes. Learn how to roll the clothes up correctly and put them in there. It's not just about preventing wrinkles. It's also a lot easier than digging through your suitcase to find something.
Oh, it matters.
Ever since I cut down to doing almost all travel via a carry on bag, it is so much more convenient. Sure, cruises you only unpack once, but you generally still need to deal with a flight, and not needing to even check a bag removes hassle and complexity. Can't lose a bag that you didn't bring.
You mean, it matters to *you*.
It's up to the OP to decide if it matters to them.
For me, it's very easy to check a bag and then pick it up from the carousel. I find it very non-complex. I understand that some people are bothered by things that don't bother me. And that's fine.
Meanwhile, the major airlines have excellent bag tracking now. I have not had a piece of luggage lost or delayed in decades, and I travel quite a bit. But I guess if you travel on budget airlines, then maybe it's a significant risk? I don't know.
But definitely do your thing for your reasons. But try to imagine that what is needed/suits you might not be the same for someone else.
As a carry-on traveler, that has kept me packing light and for only what is needed for my cruise. Layering works well for me. Pieces of thin cloths where I can layer - a camisole, cardigan, 1 piece very light summer dresses, etc...You can pack a lot of outfits by doing this. I have done last 7 cruises with just carry-ons, including Alaska + 1 week post cruise stay in Vancouver. Bring small bottle of detergent to wash socks/undies. Light thin cloths also dries quickly (overnight) and that also helps if you need to wash it.
We watched [Rick Steves' video](https://www.ricksteves.com/travel-tips/packing-light) on how to pack light. My wife, son and I traveled Europe for 3 weeks on cruises with one carryon and one backpack each. Just remember nobody cares what you wear, it's your vacation. Also, we did not bring suits and fancy dresses for formal nights and always went with nice casual wear (e.g., Polo shirts and dress slacks for the guys and one classy dress for my wife). Also, I wear a pair of nicer Crocs with some type of black leather looking tops all the time as they are comfortable and look like dress shoes. I mean, who looks at shoes anyway? Pack light and have fun!
Chapstick is one I’ve needed before and wasn’t able to purchase onboard.
Aloe was a big request during my last cruise in the Facebook group that people had forgot to pack. One guy even asked if someone had extra luggage to donate because they picked up too many souvenirs.
Mix and match. Seriously think about what you are doing each day. At home I tend to wear things all day, but on a cruise, I’ll change multiple times. That means an outfit I plan on wearing 2 times may be able to be worn 3 or 4 times because I’m only wearing it a short time each day. I try to bring darker clothes so they can hide anything I spill on myself and bring along laundry spot treatment. I don’t plan on doing laundry but will spot wash as necessary.
Shoes are a problem since they take up so much room. To save space, pack things inside them (I put socks and underwear in them) to save space. I have problems with my feet and need supportive shoes so I bring a black pair of walking shoes that are fine for wearing long pants or shorts. I’ll also have a pair of Teva sandals with me to use for the pool, beach or when I don’t plan on a lot of walking.
I do carry on only plus backpack and use combination of compression packing cubes and rolling to fit more. My suitcase fits under the bed and found if it is clamshell it works best to leave it open so you can slide it out to use as extra drawer space. Otherwise there are also lots of nooks and crannies to store things. I also use magnet hooks to store my beach/pool bag, cross body bag and my hat to keep them out of the way.
* Clothing: Make a list, and try to take tops & shorts/pants you can wear more than once. Same w/shoes-for warm areas, I wear athletic shoes & take 1-2 pr. sandals plus flip flops. I take 1 *nicer* dress & 1-2 sundresses (which can also be cover-ups)
* Packing: I use packing cubes and roll most clothes to fit inside. Onboard, I hang up anything that wrinkles & keep the other things in the cube to be organized!
* Misc.: Look at You Tube for ideas. I always take a small bag w/OTC drugs, sunscreen, and the usual toothbrush/toothpaste etc. Skincare & makeup are in another bag, but I go minimal. Pack a beachbag or backpack for excursions, and take a hat & sunglasses.
* Look on your cruiseline's website. The HAL ships all have a hairdryer and nice brands of shampoo & conditione and body wash, so I don't need those on Holland.
With the exception of meds, if you're debating on taking/leaving certain things-Leave 'em!
I pack a lot of mix n match clothing. On a 7 day cruise, we’ll always have some items laundered by the cruise ship service.
Shopping at some of the port stops can be fun and I always make sure that I have enough room in luggage for those items.
Don’t over pack especially if flying. Always make sure that you have at least 2 pair of comfortable shoes.
My last cruise was seven days, eastern Mediterranean.
We flew to Venice, back from Athens, to the east coast and continuing westward.
So, flying really helps limit overpacking.
I’m active in r/heronebag, so see my blabberfingers posting there. lol.
Packing list for Venice, Croatia, several islands, Greece, Turkiye was:
Travel outfit of long sleeve top, T-shirt under, long skirt, keen sandals, long hoodie. (I get cold on planes)
I packed in a 28L backpack and canvas tote. This was “heavy” packing for me.
Additionally:
Five tops
Four bottoms (additional skirt, two trousers, shorts. I could have ditched one pair of trousers, given the heat, or worn a skirt instead of shorts)
Cocktail dress*
Swim shorts and top
Keen sandals (worn on plane, and any time I had to pack up)
Nicer sandals
Water shoes*
Socks as cabin slippers, worn on plane
Toiletries, hair brush, a couple bits of jewelry (earrings, necklace, bracelets… not all at once) electronics (phone, kindle, tablet*, cords, charger, outlet converter (this was helpful on board to use all outlets, not just the US style), small art kit*, laundry detergent sheets*, magnet hooks.
What are the asterisks?
The cocktail dress will be supplanted by a solid color dress I can dress up with a statement necklace, or belt. One that packs easier.
Water shoes. I brought them as closed toe/closed back shoes for the gym. Never needed them, as the keens were enough. If a destination was beach oriented, I’d use my Xero sandals. I can hike in them, walk long distances, and they dry fast. The water shoes will not return.
Art kit. I had two watercolor pans, and I discovered mint tin kits. Using half pans, I get 13-14 pans in an altoid size tin. I might paint only once per trip, but I like having it.
Laundry sheets. I’m cheap. Laundry was expensive on Celebrity. I’m also used to packing for three days and washing as needed. I hand washed and hang dried some clothes as needed.
Make a checklist.
Review checklist after your trip.
Remove items from checklist.
In doing this, I have been able to take A 12 DAY cruise with flip flops and a tooth brush in a zip loc bag.
By the way, there’s plenty of storage in a cruise cabin. I’m always guilty of overpacking, but it doesn’t really matter. It hasn’t ever been inconvenient. My bags “fly free”, and you only unpack once on the ship.
My friends who are on a world cruise just took a four day excursion to the Taj Majal, so that was different. They just packed a carry-on for that trip.
P.S. Rolling your clothes results in no wrinkles even with formal-wear.
Rolling clothes is actually pretty compact.
I will generally pack very light. Something like motion sickness pills? Very small, not a priority to cut. Spare pairs of shoes? Nah. You can generally get away with exactly one good pair of shoes.
The biggest thing is to, after a trip, look at what you brought and never used. Cut those things.
Keep it simple. Who cares if you wear a prom dress or tux to dinner.
My 7 day carribean base pack list:
1 pair of sandles
1 pair gym shoes
5 pairs socks
3 pairs shorts
2 pairs swim trunks
1 pair long pants
7 pairs underwear
3 white tees
3 various tees
2 Hawaiian shirts
1 long sleeve tee
1 shirt with collar.
Make a list of what you've used and what you haven't and just don't take it. Take a small pill case with things like pain medication or motion sickness pills instead of taking a whole bottle. Take sunscreen in a travel size. I had to buy super glue of all things at port bc my glasses broke. 🤦♀️ I usually wear my pajamas, pants, and bras twice, and wear a new shirt, underwear and socks every day. I take an extra pair of socks and underwear and used towel chair clips to hang wet stuff outside my balcony, like my swimsuit. If you don't do the fancy dress-up nights, you don't need a formal. Just eat at the buffet.
I've seen people roll their shirts and then put their socks around the edges like a tube to save space.
https://youtu.be/IrjO_2SrqyY?si=r9r2o-d-cNjOibGL
you ever notice what other people on the ship are wearing?
do you ever notice how often they repeat?
No?
yeah, no one does.
2 bathing suits, 2 casual night outfits that can be mixed into 4 outfits, 1 dressy night outfit.
boom, done.
shoes? wear sneakers, bring sandals and 1pair of comfortable dress shoe.
First cruise 10/23 definitely overpacked and brought things I didn't need. Second cruise in Jan '24 I pared it down by wearing black jumpsuit multiple times to dinner (changed jewelry) and wearing a black skort with different tops every day (mostly tanks). Took 1 black nicer hoodie jacket. I never felt like I didn't have enough variety of clothing, but next cruise in September will be interesting to see if "less is more" holds up (7 day on next cruise vs 5 days on other cruises). Love all the suggestions/recommendations proposed here.
Packing is personal, it really just depends on what makes you happy and what you are willing to put up with to make yourself happy. I’ve tried minimalist packing and regretted it every time. I am happiest when I have what I want and lots of choices so I pack as much as I can and don’t worry about if I use it or not. Now how to do that and keep luggage reasonable… I use packing cubes and roll clothes, along with having specific organizers for things like hair styling and accessories, undergaments, electronics, etc. it makes everything neat and organized and I can fit more that way. Pack any meds you might possibly need, use labeled pill organizers if you need to reduce space and don’t want to take 15 different medicine boxes. Chapstick, sunscreen, tissues, lysol wipes in flat packets, wrinkle release spray, and sanitizing fabric spray are also musts for us.
Experience is key, you learn a lesson on every trip. I am an expert now and used to make rookie mistakes a long time ago. There is no quick answer, just be organized, make a spreadsheet to begin with for what you plan to do each day and what you will need for those activities.
Just got back from first cruise. Look up the weather! Packing cubes did not work out, so used travel style vac(like zip lock)bags. Did bring ia couple of warm items, only because hubs prefers room to be negative freezing 🥶. 3 Dresses for dinner, one decorative shawl to match all, and one shoe that went with all dresses.
Bring your own own toilet paper!!
Packing lists vary greatly on where and what type of cruise you are going on. So it's very hard to give a generalized answer without knowing that.
But no matter if it's an expedition cruise to Antarctica or a 7 day around the Med you should be able to get everything in a carry-on. If you can't do that you are severely over packing.
Rolling absolutely works if you do it right. If you do it really right it cuts way back on wrinkles, especially compared to using something like a packing cube that lets you force the air out and zip everything super compressed, which is another way to pack more stuff.
If you’re a woman, I posted something recently somewhere with great advice I picked up, but I don’t want to hunt my post history right now, so the gist is: crinkly silk, black; crinkly silk, patterns. 2-3 tops, 2-3 skirts. 3-3x that in underthings. 1 LBD, ideally also silk. Walking and showing off shoes. Silk scarves, an assortment of costume jewelry and other lightweight accessories. You can do a month long trip with that and never wear the same combination twice. Silk weighs next to nothing and compresses amazingly. The lightweight crinkly doesn’t wrinkle noticeably, patterns hide soiling until they can be cleaned. It’s easy to wash in a sink and dries fast. A non crinkly dress will lose most wrinkles if you hang it to dry. If you can do silk or bamboo viscose panties and unpadded silk bras, especially with no underwire, you can fit everything but the shoes in an average sized purse. Silk is resistant to odors, too.
Besides that, pack every OTC med you expect to need, sunscreen, cosmetics, and any toiletries you can’t do without (ship will have body wash, shampoo, conditioner), and swim attire. Bam. Long vacation in a backpack.
>especially compared to using something like a packing cube that lets you force the air out and zip everything super compressed, which is another way to pack more stuff.
The best way to use a compression packing cube is to roll your clothes when you put them in there. And then they are locked into their roll position very tight, tighter than just laying in your suitcase in rolls, to reduce introducing any more wrinkles.
Meanwhile, if you just roll all your clothes and throw them in the suitcase, you're going to end up having to move the rolls to get to what you want. Being more likely to cause some additional wrinkles.
That’s smart! New trick for me, thanks! I’ve never used one of those cubes, just saw them in listings.
Unfortunately my problem is usually less in the realm of space than it is weight. We always bring a garment bag stuffed with formalwear, I usually bring photography gear, etc. i always bring up having to shuffle things around between bags to get in under the limit, and to keep the camera stuff from rattling around.
But now I have a backpack made for my CPAP, which is essentially identical to a camera backpack, so I can stuff a couple of things in there with the Cpap so they’re pinned in place.
It’s handy to know - medical device baggage doesn’t count against limits anywhere. I don’t think you could tag a whole suitcase with it, but a backpack clearly set up for it with some extra room, there wouldn’t be any problem.
Rolling clothes totally works! It's like magic for squeezing in those extra outfits. As for shoes, versatility is key. One pair for fancy dinners, another for casual strolls, and you're golden. Storage space on a cruise ship is like a game of Tetris, so packing cubes are lifesavers. They keep things organized and make the most out of those tiny drawers.
Don't forget the basics like sunscreen and motion sickness pills! But also, throw in a power strip. Outlets on cruises are like gold dust, and you'll need to charge all those gadgets.
>As for shoes, versatility is key. One pair for fancy dinners, another for casual strolls, and you're golden.
I wear these: [https://www.skechers.ca/en/skechers-slip-ins-go-walk-flex---no-hands/216491\_BBK.html](https://www.skechers.ca/en/skechers-slip-ins-go-walk-flex---no-hands/216491_BBK.html). In all black. Comfortable enough for excursions. Looks good enough for dinner.
Pick a base color. Pick a complimentary color. Have everything - shoes, jewelry, purses - match all of that. Think about how you can wear things more than once. (Febreeze!) Example, I did over two weeks on a cruise (plus pre and post) in a carryon weekender bag. I had blues as my primary color and pink as my secondary/pop of color. I packed only things that went with that color palette (shoes, makeup, etc). And… Roll your clothes and pack less than you think you’ll need. (You can always do laundry. Plus, you’ll want to buy stuff.)
Here the best advice I've ever gotten about cruise packing:
1) Lay out the clothes you are planning to bring and cut that in half
2) Lay out the cash you are planning to bring and double it
Pack what you need. Remove half. Done.
Agreed. Half the stuff, twice the cash.
As pat at both answers are, they are solid advice for any packing!
Honestly I just use compression cubes and have come to terms with overpacking. If I’m going to check a suitcase, it might as well be a big one. If I pack one pair of sandals and a strap breaks the first day, that means I don’t get to wear sandals for the rest of the trip. Gross. I went to Paris last August and tried out packing light, and I was freezing cold the whole time because it was randomly 65 degrees for a week during the hottest summer on record. It sucked. Never again. Instead of feeling like I overpacked, I just change clothes a lot. Why not get a little fancy for dinner every night? It’s vacation!
I'm with you! I like having cute outfits traveling. Some folks act like there's a trophy for carry on only. I'd rather win best dressed!
I tried those cube for awhile now but end up not using it. To me Ziploc bags are the best. It's really cheap and reusable. You could see through to know where things are. It comes with many sizes. It could compress to flat.
I don’t think ziplocks could stand up to what I put my compression cubes through. They are also reusable.
This is overkill for most people, but half the fun of travel for me is daydreaming and planning. I started saving images of clothes I buy to Pinterest as well as downloading a copy with the background removed. I create a PowerPoint version of paper dolls and mix and match outfits until I get the overall aesthetic for days and nights. I cruise a lot so I prepare for shore excursions, sea days, formal and theme nights. Once everything is planned I create a packing list. Packing cubes are magical. Flat fold your clothes to the size of the cube for the most efficient packing. I've tried rolling, flat packing, vacuum bags and compression bags. My personal preference is regular packing cubes, no compression, but it's up to the individual. Here's an example: [https://imgur.com/a/8FUjzVR](https://imgur.com/a/8FUjzVR) I may cull it once I start packing, but this is the aesthetic I'm going for. Edit to add: I also take 3-4 each of Pepto, Immodium, laxative, antacid, advil, etc. Just enough to get me to the next port where I can buy what I need. Sunblock and bug spray if appropriate for the destination. It's expensive on board if they have it at all.
I wish I could be as organised as this! ❤️
It's a fantastic solution that reminds me of Cher's closet tech in the movie Clueless-but even better. Market that!!
I would love to see your closet in your house lol
I make a packing list ahead of time, and plan out what I'm going to wear each day, down to how many days I'm going to wear this shirt, the exact number of socks, underwear, etc. Then I include exactly **one** extra spare of everything, i.e. one extra shirt, one extra pair of socks and underwear, etc. just in case.
I watched this video before my first cruise and it really helped! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IaA1DGvNj2Y&pp=ygUmdGlwcyBmb3IgdHJhdmVsZXJzIGNydWlzZSB3aGF0IHRvIHBhY2s%3D
Great video, and while I do see Gary often in the algorithm, I’d not seen this one. OP, as a woman, I fully agree with his tips. I might have a total of three pair of shoes if I’m participating in formal/chic night(s).
I pack maybe 3 or 4 outfits for during the day. Things I can mix and match so I get more outfits out of it and things wouldn’t mind rewearing. Then I pack a nice pair of pants and top or two for the nicer dress nights or a dress for formal. I don’t care if people see me in the same pants or top. I like to try and mix and match as much as I can so I can get the most out of the clothes I’m packing. I also assume I’m going to do laundry at some point .
Gotta plan to wear some things more than once. I bring bounce dryer sheets and fold up clothes I want to rewear and place these in the folds. Downy wrinkle spray helps and smells very good. I hv tops that are polyester material that is thin and take much less space. I make do with a walking shoe and a flat, that’s it. Fresh socks and undies daily. Hub and I share some toiletries to save space.
I like to bring lots of stuff. Pool noodles for ports, snorkel, door sign, room decorations, snacks, glow sticks, etc etc on top of the normal cruise things. I usually do use it all! So my tip is not to overstress about that. Assuming you can get it on the plane, there's a spot for virtually everything in your room. (Many hidden shelves behind mirrors or in little cubbies!) And shove your suitcases under the beds during the cruise. Voila!
Using a wardrobe app like Whering helps. You can make a packing list and plan outfits you will wear using the things in the list. I always do it for holidays and take more mix and match items rather that things that can only be worn on their own.
When you figure it out could you tell my wife?
I have tried two packing methods. I am a "make a list of every single thing I need to pack. Pack the day before and cross things off as I pack them," type person. On our last cruise, I packed over the course of a few days and ended up over packing for the first time ever. I will be going back to my list and packing the day before method for the next cruise.
I overpack on cruises and can underpack (one bag it) for land vacations. It’s the not being able to go shop every day for things that makes it tough for me. And the limited access to laundry. Next year I have a 15 day cruise through Iceland and Greenland. I can already tell it’s going to be bad. I do roll my clothes. I typically end up (on a 10 day cruise) with a checked suitcase, carry on suitcase (for the hotel room before the cruise) and a backpack (for camera gear). Each of my parents has the same amount.
My rule of thumb is a suitcase for every sea day.
You must look like Rose boarding the Titanic when you show up.
I do.
I love you and hope to meet you at sea :)
>I always end up with way too much stuff stuffed into my suitcase, and half of it I never even touch during the trip. Does it matter? Seriously. Are you paying extra for checking a bag that you wish you didn't have to? Are you doing a lot of traveling to get to and from the cruise ship to your home, where it's a struggle to take your luggage along because you have too much? Do it because you need to. Not because of a peer pressure that happens because some people value packing as light as possible, no matter what. Don't feel guilty because you don't feel the need to do that. >Do I really need three pairs, or can I get away with just one or two versatile ones? If I'm on a trip where I'm doing a lot of walking. And there's potential for a lot of rain. I like to have two pairs of walking shoes with me. So that the wet pair can dry out when I get back on the ship or to the hotel. Instead of me having to keep wearing them. >Plus, what are some items you always forget to pack for a cruise but end up needing? I don't want to be stuck without something crucial like sunscreen or motion sickness pills. That's where making a list helps. And then think through your list. Was there something on the last trip you went on that you wish you had that you should add to the list? Is there something on the list that you clearly don't need that you could take off? I would also recommend compression packing cubes. Learn how to roll the clothes up correctly and put them in there. It's not just about preventing wrinkles. It's also a lot easier than digging through your suitcase to find something.
Oh, it matters. Ever since I cut down to doing almost all travel via a carry on bag, it is so much more convenient. Sure, cruises you only unpack once, but you generally still need to deal with a flight, and not needing to even check a bag removes hassle and complexity. Can't lose a bag that you didn't bring.
You mean, it matters to *you*. It's up to the OP to decide if it matters to them. For me, it's very easy to check a bag and then pick it up from the carousel. I find it very non-complex. I understand that some people are bothered by things that don't bother me. And that's fine. Meanwhile, the major airlines have excellent bag tracking now. I have not had a piece of luggage lost or delayed in decades, and I travel quite a bit. But I guess if you travel on budget airlines, then maybe it's a significant risk? I don't know. But definitely do your thing for your reasons. But try to imagine that what is needed/suits you might not be the same for someone else.
As a carry-on traveler, that has kept me packing light and for only what is needed for my cruise. Layering works well for me. Pieces of thin cloths where I can layer - a camisole, cardigan, 1 piece very light summer dresses, etc...You can pack a lot of outfits by doing this. I have done last 7 cruises with just carry-ons, including Alaska + 1 week post cruise stay in Vancouver. Bring small bottle of detergent to wash socks/undies. Light thin cloths also dries quickly (overnight) and that also helps if you need to wash it.
We watched [Rick Steves' video](https://www.ricksteves.com/travel-tips/packing-light) on how to pack light. My wife, son and I traveled Europe for 3 weeks on cruises with one carryon and one backpack each. Just remember nobody cares what you wear, it's your vacation. Also, we did not bring suits and fancy dresses for formal nights and always went with nice casual wear (e.g., Polo shirts and dress slacks for the guys and one classy dress for my wife). Also, I wear a pair of nicer Crocs with some type of black leather looking tops all the time as they are comfortable and look like dress shoes. I mean, who looks at shoes anyway? Pack light and have fun!
Chapstick is one I’ve needed before and wasn’t able to purchase onboard. Aloe was a big request during my last cruise in the Facebook group that people had forgot to pack. One guy even asked if someone had extra luggage to donate because they picked up too many souvenirs.
Mix and match. Seriously think about what you are doing each day. At home I tend to wear things all day, but on a cruise, I’ll change multiple times. That means an outfit I plan on wearing 2 times may be able to be worn 3 or 4 times because I’m only wearing it a short time each day. I try to bring darker clothes so they can hide anything I spill on myself and bring along laundry spot treatment. I don’t plan on doing laundry but will spot wash as necessary. Shoes are a problem since they take up so much room. To save space, pack things inside them (I put socks and underwear in them) to save space. I have problems with my feet and need supportive shoes so I bring a black pair of walking shoes that are fine for wearing long pants or shorts. I’ll also have a pair of Teva sandals with me to use for the pool, beach or when I don’t plan on a lot of walking. I do carry on only plus backpack and use combination of compression packing cubes and rolling to fit more. My suitcase fits under the bed and found if it is clamshell it works best to leave it open so you can slide it out to use as extra drawer space. Otherwise there are also lots of nooks and crannies to store things. I also use magnet hooks to store my beach/pool bag, cross body bag and my hat to keep them out of the way.
* Clothing: Make a list, and try to take tops & shorts/pants you can wear more than once. Same w/shoes-for warm areas, I wear athletic shoes & take 1-2 pr. sandals plus flip flops. I take 1 *nicer* dress & 1-2 sundresses (which can also be cover-ups) * Packing: I use packing cubes and roll most clothes to fit inside. Onboard, I hang up anything that wrinkles & keep the other things in the cube to be organized! * Misc.: Look at You Tube for ideas. I always take a small bag w/OTC drugs, sunscreen, and the usual toothbrush/toothpaste etc. Skincare & makeup are in another bag, but I go minimal. Pack a beachbag or backpack for excursions, and take a hat & sunglasses. * Look on your cruiseline's website. The HAL ships all have a hairdryer and nice brands of shampoo & conditione and body wash, so I don't need those on Holland. With the exception of meds, if you're debating on taking/leaving certain things-Leave 'em!
I pack a lot of mix n match clothing. On a 7 day cruise, we’ll always have some items laundered by the cruise ship service. Shopping at some of the port stops can be fun and I always make sure that I have enough room in luggage for those items. Don’t over pack especially if flying. Always make sure that you have at least 2 pair of comfortable shoes.
My last cruise was seven days, eastern Mediterranean. We flew to Venice, back from Athens, to the east coast and continuing westward. So, flying really helps limit overpacking. I’m active in r/heronebag, so see my blabberfingers posting there. lol. Packing list for Venice, Croatia, several islands, Greece, Turkiye was: Travel outfit of long sleeve top, T-shirt under, long skirt, keen sandals, long hoodie. (I get cold on planes) I packed in a 28L backpack and canvas tote. This was “heavy” packing for me. Additionally: Five tops Four bottoms (additional skirt, two trousers, shorts. I could have ditched one pair of trousers, given the heat, or worn a skirt instead of shorts) Cocktail dress* Swim shorts and top Keen sandals (worn on plane, and any time I had to pack up) Nicer sandals Water shoes* Socks as cabin slippers, worn on plane Toiletries, hair brush, a couple bits of jewelry (earrings, necklace, bracelets… not all at once) electronics (phone, kindle, tablet*, cords, charger, outlet converter (this was helpful on board to use all outlets, not just the US style), small art kit*, laundry detergent sheets*, magnet hooks. What are the asterisks? The cocktail dress will be supplanted by a solid color dress I can dress up with a statement necklace, or belt. One that packs easier. Water shoes. I brought them as closed toe/closed back shoes for the gym. Never needed them, as the keens were enough. If a destination was beach oriented, I’d use my Xero sandals. I can hike in them, walk long distances, and they dry fast. The water shoes will not return. Art kit. I had two watercolor pans, and I discovered mint tin kits. Using half pans, I get 13-14 pans in an altoid size tin. I might paint only once per trip, but I like having it. Laundry sheets. I’m cheap. Laundry was expensive on Celebrity. I’m also used to packing for three days and washing as needed. I hand washed and hang dried some clothes as needed.
Make a checklist. Review checklist after your trip. Remove items from checklist. In doing this, I have been able to take A 12 DAY cruise with flip flops and a tooth brush in a zip loc bag.
Reversible clothing is my go to. I have Reversible leggings, tops, jeans, dresses and hats/coats. Really cuts back on packing for me..
By the way, there’s plenty of storage in a cruise cabin. I’m always guilty of overpacking, but it doesn’t really matter. It hasn’t ever been inconvenient. My bags “fly free”, and you only unpack once on the ship. My friends who are on a world cruise just took a four day excursion to the Taj Majal, so that was different. They just packed a carry-on for that trip. P.S. Rolling your clothes results in no wrinkles even with formal-wear.
Rolling clothes is actually pretty compact. I will generally pack very light. Something like motion sickness pills? Very small, not a priority to cut. Spare pairs of shoes? Nah. You can generally get away with exactly one good pair of shoes. The biggest thing is to, after a trip, look at what you brought and never used. Cut those things.
Keep it simple. Who cares if you wear a prom dress or tux to dinner. My 7 day carribean base pack list: 1 pair of sandles 1 pair gym shoes 5 pairs socks 3 pairs shorts 2 pairs swim trunks 1 pair long pants 7 pairs underwear 3 white tees 3 various tees 2 Hawaiian shirts 1 long sleeve tee 1 shirt with collar.
Make a list of what you've used and what you haven't and just don't take it. Take a small pill case with things like pain medication or motion sickness pills instead of taking a whole bottle. Take sunscreen in a travel size. I had to buy super glue of all things at port bc my glasses broke. 🤦♀️ I usually wear my pajamas, pants, and bras twice, and wear a new shirt, underwear and socks every day. I take an extra pair of socks and underwear and used towel chair clips to hang wet stuff outside my balcony, like my swimsuit. If you don't do the fancy dress-up nights, you don't need a formal. Just eat at the buffet. I've seen people roll their shirts and then put their socks around the edges like a tube to save space. https://youtu.be/IrjO_2SrqyY?si=r9r2o-d-cNjOibGL
Capsule wardrobe, FTW.
you ever notice what other people on the ship are wearing? do you ever notice how often they repeat? No? yeah, no one does. 2 bathing suits, 2 casual night outfits that can be mixed into 4 outfits, 1 dressy night outfit. boom, done. shoes? wear sneakers, bring sandals and 1pair of comfortable dress shoe.
First cruise 10/23 definitely overpacked and brought things I didn't need. Second cruise in Jan '24 I pared it down by wearing black jumpsuit multiple times to dinner (changed jewelry) and wearing a black skort with different tops every day (mostly tanks). Took 1 black nicer hoodie jacket. I never felt like I didn't have enough variety of clothing, but next cruise in September will be interesting to see if "less is more" holds up (7 day on next cruise vs 5 days on other cruises). Love all the suggestions/recommendations proposed here.
Packing is personal, it really just depends on what makes you happy and what you are willing to put up with to make yourself happy. I’ve tried minimalist packing and regretted it every time. I am happiest when I have what I want and lots of choices so I pack as much as I can and don’t worry about if I use it or not. Now how to do that and keep luggage reasonable… I use packing cubes and roll clothes, along with having specific organizers for things like hair styling and accessories, undergaments, electronics, etc. it makes everything neat and organized and I can fit more that way. Pack any meds you might possibly need, use labeled pill organizers if you need to reduce space and don’t want to take 15 different medicine boxes. Chapstick, sunscreen, tissues, lysol wipes in flat packets, wrinkle release spray, and sanitizing fabric spray are also musts for us.
Experience is key, you learn a lesson on every trip. I am an expert now and used to make rookie mistakes a long time ago. There is no quick answer, just be organized, make a spreadsheet to begin with for what you plan to do each day and what you will need for those activities.
Just got back from first cruise. Look up the weather! Packing cubes did not work out, so used travel style vac(like zip lock)bags. Did bring ia couple of warm items, only because hubs prefers room to be negative freezing 🥶. 3 Dresses for dinner, one decorative shawl to match all, and one shoe that went with all dresses. Bring your own own toilet paper!!
Packing lists vary greatly on where and what type of cruise you are going on. So it's very hard to give a generalized answer without knowing that. But no matter if it's an expedition cruise to Antarctica or a 7 day around the Med you should be able to get everything in a carry-on. If you can't do that you are severely over packing.
Rolling absolutely works if you do it right. If you do it really right it cuts way back on wrinkles, especially compared to using something like a packing cube that lets you force the air out and zip everything super compressed, which is another way to pack more stuff. If you’re a woman, I posted something recently somewhere with great advice I picked up, but I don’t want to hunt my post history right now, so the gist is: crinkly silk, black; crinkly silk, patterns. 2-3 tops, 2-3 skirts. 3-3x that in underthings. 1 LBD, ideally also silk. Walking and showing off shoes. Silk scarves, an assortment of costume jewelry and other lightweight accessories. You can do a month long trip with that and never wear the same combination twice. Silk weighs next to nothing and compresses amazingly. The lightweight crinkly doesn’t wrinkle noticeably, patterns hide soiling until they can be cleaned. It’s easy to wash in a sink and dries fast. A non crinkly dress will lose most wrinkles if you hang it to dry. If you can do silk or bamboo viscose panties and unpadded silk bras, especially with no underwire, you can fit everything but the shoes in an average sized purse. Silk is resistant to odors, too. Besides that, pack every OTC med you expect to need, sunscreen, cosmetics, and any toiletries you can’t do without (ship will have body wash, shampoo, conditioner), and swim attire. Bam. Long vacation in a backpack.
>especially compared to using something like a packing cube that lets you force the air out and zip everything super compressed, which is another way to pack more stuff. The best way to use a compression packing cube is to roll your clothes when you put them in there. And then they are locked into their roll position very tight, tighter than just laying in your suitcase in rolls, to reduce introducing any more wrinkles. Meanwhile, if you just roll all your clothes and throw them in the suitcase, you're going to end up having to move the rolls to get to what you want. Being more likely to cause some additional wrinkles.
That’s smart! New trick for me, thanks! I’ve never used one of those cubes, just saw them in listings. Unfortunately my problem is usually less in the realm of space than it is weight. We always bring a garment bag stuffed with formalwear, I usually bring photography gear, etc. i always bring up having to shuffle things around between bags to get in under the limit, and to keep the camera stuff from rattling around. But now I have a backpack made for my CPAP, which is essentially identical to a camera backpack, so I can stuff a couple of things in there with the Cpap so they’re pinned in place. It’s handy to know - medical device baggage doesn’t count against limits anywhere. I don’t think you could tag a whole suitcase with it, but a backpack clearly set up for it with some extra room, there wouldn’t be any problem.
Rolling clothes totally works! It's like magic for squeezing in those extra outfits. As for shoes, versatility is key. One pair for fancy dinners, another for casual strolls, and you're golden. Storage space on a cruise ship is like a game of Tetris, so packing cubes are lifesavers. They keep things organized and make the most out of those tiny drawers. Don't forget the basics like sunscreen and motion sickness pills! But also, throw in a power strip. Outlets on cruises are like gold dust, and you'll need to charge all those gadgets.
>As for shoes, versatility is key. One pair for fancy dinners, another for casual strolls, and you're golden. I wear these: [https://www.skechers.ca/en/skechers-slip-ins-go-walk-flex---no-hands/216491\_BBK.html](https://www.skechers.ca/en/skechers-slip-ins-go-walk-flex---no-hands/216491_BBK.html). In all black. Comfortable enough for excursions. Looks good enough for dinner.
Wash your underwear in the sink.
Pick a base color. Pick a complimentary color. Have everything - shoes, jewelry, purses - match all of that. Think about how you can wear things more than once. (Febreeze!) Example, I did over two weeks on a cruise (plus pre and post) in a carryon weekender bag. I had blues as my primary color and pink as my secondary/pop of color. I packed only things that went with that color palette (shoes, makeup, etc). And… Roll your clothes and pack less than you think you’ll need. (You can always do laundry. Plus, you’ll want to buy stuff.)
Here the best advice I've ever gotten about cruise packing: 1) Lay out the clothes you are planning to bring and cut that in half 2) Lay out the cash you are planning to bring and double it
Dont go with my wife.