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Let’s talk packing for a 5-7 day cruise with just your carry on and a personal item. Over packing is easy to do when you are going on vacation but how do you decide what to take when you needs things for beach days, port days, formal days, ship days, and flight days! I am going to share some tips to maximize the space that you do have.
1. Plan to re-wear items
I change clothes several times a day when on a cruise. So always hang things back up or put them in a spot where you can put them back on later because chances are they are clean enough to wear again.
2. Bring laundry pods
If you are staying before or after for a few days check to see if the hotel you are staying at has washers and dryers available for public use. If they do, take a few laundry pod tabs in a ziplock bag. A small bag of these tide pods only runs about $11. You would be surprised how many do! In some cases the cruise ship may have laundry you can do for free.
3. Sunscreen, sunscreen, sunscreen!
Make sure you pack enough. Since we are trying to use carry on only. Be sure to follow TSA rules for sizes. There are several brands that I like to use that come in 3 oz bottles. You may need to pack a few extras but totally worth not having to check your bag. If you will be traveling to your port destination a few days early you can plan to stop at a local store and buy bigger bottles. Just remember to pack extra, the sun is hot and the last thing you want is a burn. The prices for sunscreen on the boat will be at least double and sometimes triple the normal price. Don’t for get a small bottle of aloe in case someone does get a little red.
4. Pack outfits with more than one use
This one is mainly for all the ladies. Try to pack outfits that can have multiple uses. Dresses that can be used one night for dinner but are casual enough to wear to port the next day or as a swim cover up. Always bring at least one light cardigan or jacket, after being in the sun all day the dinning room or evening shows can feel a bit chilly.
5. Limit your shoe options
Shoes are another way you can save space, try to pack one pair of dress shoes to match all the evening wear you bring. Always make sure you have a pair of tennis shoes if you have shore excursions that involve a lot of walking, and sometimes ships have activities that require them. And never bring brand new shoes the last thing you want is blisters!
6. Remember: Children also get a free carry-on
Well on most major airlines they do. They may not if you’re flying a budget airline like Frontier or Spirit. If your children are old enough to transport their own carry on, take advantage of the extra space. Don’t try to cram all your stuff into just the adult suitcases. Kids clothes will generally take up less space. Or keep this space open for any souvenirs you may bring back!
7. Don’t forget hats and sunglasses
Hat’s and sunglasses are a must! The further south your cruise goes the more intense the sun so be sure you protect you eyes and head. Every balding man knows this all too well. A burnt head is no fun.
8. Bring your own water bottle
Preferably one you can re-use but just make sure it’s empty before going through airport TSA. Before you leave the ship on port days be sure to stop by one of the water stations. Staying hydrated is important. I love this glass one. It comes in so many color options for the silicone sleeve and is leak proof so I know it’s not going to spill in my bag.
9. Bring a beach bag or tote
Consider bringing a beach bag or tote bag to take to the pool or to port. There are several versions that are foldable or zip up to make them easy to add in to your luggage.
10. Never forget the portable charger
Power bank for your phone, always good to keep with. I take lots of photo’s and video’s on vacation so my phone dies a bit more quickly so I almost always have one handy. A small one like this is only slightly larger than a tube of lipstick but doesn’t hold as much charge. I prefer the larger MagSafe ones for my iPhone.
11. Multi-port USB chargers save the day
Surge protectors are not allowed! But I guarantee there won’t be enough plugs for all your electronics in your stateroom. Ships are all different and some have more outlets than others, but in my family of 5 we have 5 iPhones, 3 Apple Watches, and multiple sets of AirPods so there’s never enough space to charge everything overnight. A multi USB port is useful, you can also use international adapter to expand the amount of plugs. I absolutely love this 10-port charger. It’s compact so it doesn’t take up much space in your carry-on and it can charge 10 devices at once!
12. A Waterproof phone case can capture some amazing memories
I love a good waterproof phone case. They are great for the beach or the pool or snorkeling and can get you some great underwater shots. Plus you don’t have to constantly worried about your phone getting wet.
13. Arrive a day early
This one isn’t so much of a packing tip but it’s so important that I try to talk about it as much as possible. Never arrive the day you’re scheduled to depart. Especially with the amount of delays and cancellations these days, the last thing you need is to miss your cruise. It will leave without you! Come in the day or night before. Enjoy a dinner out or explore a new city.
