Are you planning on taking a cruise vacation this year? Don’t start getting ready until you read these essential cruise packing tips. You’ll be glad you did!
So, you’ve finally booked tickets for the cruise of your dreams.
You’ve read up on your destinations, you know the shows you want to see and the foods you want to eat, and you’ve even booked a spa treatment on board!
The only problem?
You’re not so confident about your packing abilities.
Looking for the cruise packing tips that you need to prevent overpacking and leave room for souvenirs?
We’ve got you covered in this post.
1. Switch To Sample Size
We get it — just because you’re going on a cruise, doesn’t mean that you’re willing to compromise your beauty or grooming routine.
However, we know you understand that often, space truly is at a premium.
First up on our list of the best cruise packing tips?
Understand that buying everything you can in a smaller sample size is essential. Hit up your local drugstore and see which products are available in a trial size. Head to your favorite beauty counter and ask for a sample size.
Be aware that sometimes, you may even get a free gift with travel sizes if you restock on your regular products before a cruise.
If you can’t find the products you need?
Just invest in small, transparent plastic bottles and jars. Use a funnel or teaspoon to transfer your products into smaller containers. Remember that cruise ships will usually have stores on board, so you can always replenish your supply throughout your trip!
2. Bring Detergent On Board
We know that, especially if you’re a bit of a clothes horse, it can be daunting to properly pack for a cruise.
We’re all about offering you cruise packing tips that show you how to maximize the space in your bag — as well as the wardrobe you’ve chosen.
Remember that it’s not necessary to bring too many clothes. First of all, when you get off the ship, you’ll be in an entirely new destination, where no one is aware that you’re repeating an outfit.
Additionally, you want to make sure you’ve left enough room in your suitcases for the fabulous finds you’ll want to buy when shopping at different destinations!
To ensure that you’ve packed what you actually need, take a quick look at the onboard dress code. Then, make an inventory of your outfits.
When you’re packing, think about pieces that are versatile, and outfits that allow you to mix and match to change up your look.
Check out clothing brands like Imperial Motion to find pieces that will go with anything and are right for every occasion.
Above all, we strongly recommend packing a few travel-sized laundry detergent pouches. While some cruise ships may offer laundry services onboard, not all of them will.
Plus, doing your own laundry in the sink is an awesome way to save cash for more important things!
Doing your laundry will also mean that you’ll be able to switch up your outfits as often as you’d like.
3. Use A Duffel Bag
Hard-sided suitcases might be a good security option and allow to protect fragile items.
However, especially if you’re trying to pack as much stuff as you can into a suitcase, duffel bags are a much better option.
To maximize the space inside your bag, roll, don’t fold, your clothes into one another. Not only will this help you to save space in the bag, it will also prevent your clothes from becoming too wrinkled.
Place heavier items, like books and shoes, at the bottom of your bag to distribute the weight evenly.
Some important cruise packing tips when it comes to the things that you should leave out of your duffel bag?
Be aware that lots of cruise ships will confiscate any alcohol that they find in your bag. The same thing, of course, applies to weapons. Also, you won’t need to bring an iron or likely, a hairdryer.
Most ships will have this onboard — but always check ahead of time to avoid any heartbreak!
4. Don’t Forget The Essentials
The final entry on our list of the crucial cruise packing tips you can’t afford to ignore?
Make sure that you don’t forget some of the most important things!
Always be sure that you’ve packed:
- Your passport
- A wallet with RFID-blocking capabilities
- USB cables
- Adapters for international destinations
- An alarm clock
- Batteries for camera
- Any medications you take
- Earplugs
- An extra camera memory card
- Sunscreen
Many cruise lines will also have a suggested packing list on their website. It’s important that you take the time to familiarize yourself with the specific amenities offered by each cruise ship.
We also strongly suggest that you read up on all the rules before you board, in order to avoid any problems during your journey.
Use These Cruise Packing Tips To Your Advantage
We hope that this list of cruise packing tips has helped you to lighten your load before you board.
Remember to define your essentials, switch to travel sizes when possible, and to always know what’s available on board the ship.
The best-kept secret when it comes to booking your cruise?
You don’t need to spend a lot in order to experience a lot.
When you’re looking for the best ways to save on any vacation and at any destination, let our website give you the tips and tools you need.
Whether you’re heading out for a family camping trip or booking a cruise for a honeymoon, we can help you to get more for less.
