Is your cruise countdown already on high alert? If so, that probably means that your cruise is in your very near future. While taking a cruise is awesome, there are some simple tricks to make it even better. These cruise packing hacks make certain that you make the most of your time and space so that you can relax and become even more excited about your upcoming cruise!
Cruise Packing Hacks
One of the worst parts of getting ready for any type of vacation is probably that you have to know and plan what to pack ahead of time. The bottom is that packing for a cruise doesn’t have to be dreadful. With a little bit of planning and prep work, you can pack like a pro and have that “task” over and done with way ahead of your cruise.
Here’s the deal. Packing for a cruise really isn’t all that hard but there are some tricks of the trade to keep in mind. These simple packing hacks are ones that anyone can do.
Pack a carry on bag that is useful
So many people tend to think of carry-on bags as an “extra” space to shove stuff- but don’t be like those people. Your carry on bag is the perfect space to be prepared and have everything you need with ease. Because sometimes your luggage might not make it to your cruise cabin for a few hours and who really has time to wait?
Use your carry on for an extra change of clothes, any bathroom necessities that you need, any electronic device (and chargers!) that you might need, and whatever snacks you’re going to be craving while you’re waiting. It’s also a good idea to pack some sunscreen in your carry on as well because going right up to the Lido deck to soak it all in is pretty much what everyone on a cruise ship loves to do.
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Roll your clothes and pack wrinkle release spray
Rolling your clothes isn’t a new thing when it comes to packing because it’s a hack that actually works. Roll your clothes tightly to get more into your suitcase and then head to the store and buy some wrinkle release spray (this one smells amazing) to put on them as you unpack. Trust me, this stuff really works.
Pack your shoes in a plastic bag
Who really needs or wants to have all those germs on the bottom of their shoes being rubbed all over their nice clean clothes? Put your sandals and other shoes in a plastic bag to keep those soles away from everything else. (and make certain to pack a few extra plastic bags to store your dirty laundry as well!)
You can have a carry-on and a purse with you to store more stuff
If you’re an over-packer like me, it’s fine. It just means that you have to have space for your things. Many people don’t know that you can have a carry-on and a purse to get onto the ship with you so take advantage of all that extra space! (it’s like being able to have two carry-ons all in one!)
Don’t pack anything valuable – use alternatives instead
Yes, cruise ships have a safe where valuables can be stored in your cabin but don’t forget that you’re on a cruise ship with thousands of other people. While the likelihood of anything happening is slim, there’s always still a chance.
A great cruise packing hack is to leave valuables at home where they are safe and sound. One big item that people don’t like to take on cruises is their wedding rings and with good reason. A simple solution? Get yourself a temporary wedding band made out of silicone (these ones are super cute) so you can still let the world know that you’re married without the worry of losing or misplacing your ring.
What things should you always remember to bring on a cruise?
- Activity-appropriate clothing and shoes.
- A back pack or beach tote.
- Sunscreen and aloe.
- Toiletries like toothpaste, soap and shampoo.
- Medications for upset stomach and motion sickness.
- Underwater camera.
- Cash for tipping.
- Back up battery chargers.
Items people always forget to bring on a cruise
- Towel clips for the deck or beach.
- Bug spray.
- Nightlight.
- Power strip for more outlets.
- Sunscreen.
- Alarm clock (most staterooms don’t have one!)
- Water shoes for various excursions/a rocky beach.
What size toiletries can you bring on a cruise?
If you are traveling on an airplane you must adhere to the rule that you can only bring liquids three ounces or less in a one quart plastic bag, with one bag per passenger. Luckily, this rule does not apply to cruise ships. Bring shampoo from home or a bottle of hairspray or a full-sized tube of toothpaste
How much cash should you bring on a cruise?
In general, it’s safe to budget between $12 and $15 per person per day of the cruise. So, for a family of four taking a four-night cruise, bring at least $240 just for on-board tips.
When you’re packing for a cruise, these cruise packing hacks can help. The better prepared you are for your cruise, the fewer things that you’ll have to worry about when the time comes to launch.
Above all else, remember to pack what you’re going to need. This isn’t a time to pack the new trombone that you’ve never played before…(okay, a bit of a stretch but you know what I mean)
More travel tips you might like:
- A Guide to Cruise Ship Gratuities
- How to Pack Necklaces
- 5 Free Tips for Booking Cheap Flights
- How to Prepare for a Pet Sitter
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