Like most people, packing for a trip can be the most boring and time consuming part of your vacation. I always dread unpacking when I get home from a trip and washing the laundry. Through the years of my traveling, I have learned to be smarter on packing and not to forget anything as it will cost more to purchase on vacation.
When you are packing, be sure to put your items into two or more suitcases if it is possible just in case one of your suitcases would happen to get delayed or lost, you will still have clothes to wear. And always, put what is important and that you can’t live without into your suitcase (prescriptions, swim wear, jewelry, etc.)
How to a Pack Smart
Whether you are a Veteran Cruiser or a First Time Cruiser here is a list of packing travel tips You may want to do.
- Only pack what you will be wearing. (Guaranteed you will only wear half of what you packed)
- Be creative. (You can mix and match your clothing for different styles so that it looks like you have a completely different outfit each time)
- Roll your clothes or use vacuum sealed space saver bags (find them at a place that sells suitcases, travel stuff, or at the Container Store).
- Because the ships have formal nights doesn’t mean you have to always bring formal wear. (Passengers who aren’t interested in dressing up for the a Dining Room can find other dining options, room service or the buffets on lido deck. You won’t see a tuxedo standing at the buffet lines.)
- Divide your clothes and items into two or more suitcases. (this is so if one suitcase becomes lost, stolen, etc. you will still have clothes to wear)
- Make sure you create a packing list or find one online. (Forgetting an item will cost you if you have to purchase it at port and or on the ship)
- Some essential items needed on a cruise is flashlight, travel sized alarm clock, night light, extension cord with extra outlets because the cabin only has one outlet usually, corkscrew, bungee cord to prop balcony door opened. (Most ships will provide shampoo, shower gel, soap, tissues, toilet paper, and a hair dryer.)
- Make three copies of travel documents, passports, credit cards, ids, etc. just in case your originals get lost or stolen. Leave one copy with your family or trustworthy friend. (It’s better to be safe than sorry)
- Pack according to the weather or climate. (You won’t see a lot of tank tops and shorts in Alaska just as you won’t see parkas and sweaters in the Caribbean.)
- Always pack what you will need right away in your carry on. (Medications, etc.)
- I recommend packing two collapsible bags in your suitcase for laundry and souvenirs.
- Always check with Airlines what is approved on the airplanes before you start packing.
- Put your contact information inside the suitcase in case the outside luggage tag falls off.
- Take a picture inside of suitcase with all your items, just in case stuff becomes lost or stolen.
Cruise Packing List
Before You Go:
- Get plant and pet care
- Stop deliveries
- Put lights on a timer
- Turn down thermostat
- Empty out refrigerator
- Leave keys and travel itinerary with a friend or family member
- Lock windows, garage, and doors
- Notify your trustworthy neighbors and local police that you will be gone
Packing List:
- Guide books and maps
- Passport and visa(s), Drivers license or ID
- Cash & Credit cards
- Travelers checks or ATM card
- Insurance: Trip Cancellation/Medical
- Photocopies of documentation
- Birth Certificate and Marriage License (if required)
- Tickets & itinerary
- Hotel Reservations
- Special Event Reservations
- Paper printout of emergency contacts
- Cell phone, charger, extra battery
- Camera, charger, batteries, cords, SD cards, etc.
- iPod
- Headphones
- Earplugs
- CD player & CDs
- iPad or Laptop & cord & battery
- Travel Alarm Clock
- Binoculars
- Extension Cord
- Small Flash Light and batteries
- Small electronics & chargers
- Passport Carrier
- Eyeglasses, sunglasses & lens cleaner or contact lens preparations
- Language Books
- Reading Materials
- Playing Cards/Games
- Address Book
- Mini Sewing Kit (place in checked baggage)
- Folding Scissors (place in checked baggage)
- Laundry Bag
- Snacks
- Comb/Brush
- Toothbrush/Paste
- Mouthwash
- Dental Floss
- Shampoo/Conditioner
- Soap
- Vitamins
- Medication
- First Aid Kit
- Aspirin/Pain Reliever
- Cold/Sinus Medication
- Diarrhea Medicine or Laxative
- Insect Repellent
- Antibiotic Ointment
- Alcohol Wipes
- Sunscreen and Suntan Lotion
- Motion Sickness Medicine
- Nail clipper
- Kleenex
- Q-Tips
- Blow Dryer
- Deodorant
- Lotions/Creams
- Cologne
- Lip balm
- Make up
- Shaving Cream, Razor & extra razor blades (or electric razor)
- Plastic bags (if carry on, remember FAA limits on liquids & cremes)
- Dress clothes: dresses, suits, shirts, slacks, socks, ties/scarves,
- Dress suit/sport coat
- Dress shoes
- Casual clothes: T-shirts, shorts, swimwear, capris
- Casual shoes
- Belts
- Under wear: undergarments including t-shirts & under wear & bras etc.
- PJ’s
- Overcoat / rain coat / top coat
- Umbrella
- Sweater
- Jeans
- Hat
- Exercise clothes (swimsuit, goggles, running clothes & shoes, gym workout clothes & shoes)
- Day-planner or travel journal
- Notebooks paper
- Pens or pencils
- Post it notes
- Backpack or beach bag
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