Quick and Easy Packing Tips for Cruises

Decide on a Dress Code

Pack appropriately for your destination. You need jackets and warm clothing for Alaskan cruises, but plenty of flip-flops and swimsuits for Caribbean cruises. Good walking shoes make exploration more comfortable in port cities. Decide if you want to dress up for dinner each night or stick to a casual look. Keep in mind that luxury cruises typically require more formal attire than standard cruises, and think about what you plan to do on board. Days by the pool require a different wardrobe than days enjoying other onboard activities. Forming a plan in advance keeps you from packing unnecessary items.

Choose Double-duty Attire

Choose clothing you can wear more than once, and then pair it with multiple items. Your favorite black pants or shorts look great with an assortment of mix-and-match tops. Pair a simple black or solid-colored dress with colorful scarves or jewelry to create different looks. For cold weather cruises, pack items that layer well, and then add and remove layers as needed without completely changing clothes.

Economize Space

To save space, roll clothes instead of folding them. Tuck socks into shoes, and pack travel-size toiletries. Don't take up space with a hair dryer — most cabins already have them, or you can ask for one. Include extra batteries, earplugs, sunscreen, and other small essentials that are expensive on the ship.

Pack a Medicine Bag

Over-the-counter medications are certain to cost a pretty penny on the ship. Take common items like pain relievers and cold medicines with you, but don't lug around full-size bottles. Put a small supply of these items in zippered plastic bags with labels. Include simple first aid items like bandages and antibiotic ointments as well. Prescription medications should remain in their labeled bottles for legal reasons, but the bottles usually fit in the same zippered bag.

Pack Essentials in a Carry-on

Keep your medicine, travel documents, and a change of clothes in a small bag that stays with you when boarding. This ensures you have access to these important items if your luggage delivery to your stateroom is delayed.

Take an Empty Bag

Tuck a lightweight tote or empty duffle bag into your suitcase to fill with T-shirts, souvenirs, and duty-free goods from your travels. If you're flying home after your cruise, make sure the bag you choose fits the criteria for checked or carry-on luggage.

Knowing how to pack for a cruise makes the whole trip run smoothly. Follow us on Twitter for more travel tips and destination ideas to power your next vacation.