Six Packing Tips for Travelers Going on a Cruise

Packing for any trip has challenges, whether it’s for business or pleasure. For example, I tend to overpack when I’m traveling. We’re planning our first cruise next year, and I wanted to share six packing tips for travelers going on a cruise. They’ll help make your trip planning easier.

Pick Your Bags Carefully

Once you’ve done all your research and searched for the best cruise deals, book as early as possible to save on cruise fares. When you’re booked, start researching the ship you’re sailing online. Check the storage spaces in your cabin to help you choose the right luggage. Cruise travelers recommend sticking to smaller pieces of luggage or soft-top duffels that are easy to flatten once you’ve unpacked. 

Pack Extra Hangers and Organizer

If your cruise is longer than three days, pack extra hangers at the bottom of your suitcase. Most cabin closets don’t have enough hangers for travelers to unpack all their clothing. I would suggest picking up some cheap hangers in case you need to leave them on the ship. Pack a cheap shoe organizer in which to store your toiletries, brushes, curling irons, and other bathroom items. Counter space is limited in cabin bathrooms, so the organizer on the door will free up the space for more important things.

Prevent Overpacking With a Checklist

It’s easy to overpack when traveling. However, when you‘re going on a cruise, it’s best to try to avoid packing too much. Avoid overpacking by sticking to a packing list. You can use a template from experienced cruisers or create a list based on your own needs. If you’re creating your own list, start by creating outfit choices for each day of the cruise. Determine how many times you’ll be changing each day, and plan your outfits carefully. Stick to the list as closely as possible, and limit any extras.

Secure Your Important Travel Documents

The last thing anyone wants when traveling is to lose any important travel-related documents. Once you’ve booked, check the cruise line’s website for the travel documentation needed to embark on your cruise. It’s easier to travel using your passport; however, if you are traveling with other documents, be sure to keep them secure once you’ve completed the check-in process at port. Keep travel documents in a sealed pouch in your carry-on bags until you board the ship.

As a heavy soda drinker, I can’t enjoy a cruise without having at least one soda a day. One of the first things I checked was the cruise ship policy on taking soda or wine on the ship — after all, the soda package on the ship costs $45 per day per person. However, some cruise lines allow each guest to bring a 12-pack case of soda and one bottle of wine.

Keep Medication and Other Essentials in Your Carry-On Bags

Once you’ve checked in at the port, you won’t see your bags again for at least six hours. Travelers should always pack all their medication in carry-on bags in case of any emergencies. Pack at least once change of clothes, underwear, and a swimsuit in your carry-on if you want to swim or change before your luggage arrives at your cabin.  Anything you think you’ll need immediately should go in your carry-on bag.

For first-time cruisers such as my family, research is key to planning an enjoyable trip. Use resources such as Expedia and other travel sites to get the best prices on tickets and find great tips from other travelers.