How to Pack for a Cruise

A cruise can be the most enjoyable vacation on earth. Why worry and complicate thing when it comes to packing for a cruise? Whether you are planning a Royal Caribbean cruise, Disney cruise, Carnival cruise, Caribbean cruise or Alaskan cruise, packing techniques are the same. Follow these easy steps.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

1. Pack light no matter what the season and destination. I always make the mistake of bringing too many clothes. For Caribbean cruises and Hawaiian cruises pack more bathing suits rather than clothes, as you will probably end up lounging by the pool or beach for the majority of your vacation. For the evenings pack a sweatshirt or something to keep you warm as there is always a breeze at sea.

2. 

   Pack formal clothes. Packing for formal nights on a cruise can be difficult. Formal nights are when everyone gets dressed up for dinner and takes pictures with loved ones. Find out how many formal nights will be on your cruise. On most 7 day cruises there are two formal nights. Instead of packing formal wear, men can rent tuxes and shoes right on-board. Woman can even wear the same dress and accessorize it differently with different jewelry and handbag.

3. 

   Don't Iron. Although you may pack a suitcase full of unwrinkled clothing, that doesn't mean it will be just as neat when it arrives at your cabin. When flying and boarding a cruise ship, security inspects every piece of luggage. In doing so they often wrinkle pressed items. Luckily the on-board cleaning service is available to pick-up, iron, and deliver your clothes back to your room. This service is very inexpensive. So save time and start enjoying your vacation early by not worrying about pressing each item as you pack!

4. Save space in your suitcase. Rolling your clothes tightly instead of folding will save space, allowing you to fit more in your luggage. Place socks and underwear inside shoes. This utilizes all your suitcase space!

Tips & Warnings

• Check you cruise website for information and prices about on-board services.

[djackman]

on 10/13/2009 good information on packing for a cruise 5* and recommended

[jeni10]

on 10/5/2009 Love to cruise! Thanks for your great article on how to pack for a cruise. 5*

[writinghigh]

on 10/1/2009 I'm planning a cruise for early summer 2010 with my daughters. I'll be passing along your packing recommendations. Thank you.

[amisteree]

on 7/31/2009 Really good tips. When my wife and I cruised the Bahamas on our honeymoon I wasn't aware of "formal night." Needless to say, we found ourselves a bit under dressed and a bit uncomfortable. This article can help others avoid that mistake! 5* and a recommendation!

[didi8u]

on 7/27/2009 Excellent advice and tips on How to Pack for a Cruise. 5* And a recommend. Thanks for sharing this information.