Q: How do I decide what to pack for a cruise? The simple answer is, it depends. If you are packing clothes for a Caribbean cruise you will want to pack items for the summer. Shorts, flip flops and swimsuits are a must. If you are going on an Alaskan cruise you will need to think in layers. Make sure you have at least one jacket for both.
Check with your travel agent what the average temperatures are during the time frame you are cruising to plan appropriately.
Q: OK, we got the clothes down, do I need to pack anything else? Other items to consider is the purchase of packing cubes. I use Veken. Packing cubes. These are reasonable priced and come in a set of 6 bags. Makes packing for a suitcase easier and a snap to unpack once on board the ship. Simply hang up the items that need to be hung and leave the rest in the cubes as you place into drawers or on the shelves. Then, when time to repack for the trip home, simply zip up the cubes, replace in the suitcase along with the laundry item. Veken set comes with a shoe bag and a laundry bag. Other sets work well too, Veken is just the one I use. You can purchase online on Amazon and view other options.
I'd also suggest investing in a hanging style toiletry bag that you can unzip and hang up. Several options available at very reasonable prices on Amazon.
Q: Got it. Anything else? A good idea is to invest in a cruise approved cruise power strip. Make sure it is cruise approved or your cabin steward may confiscate it. Staterooms have a very limited number of outlets. I suggest getting a cube that also has USB ports so you can recharge your electronics.
Q: Great! Have more suggestions? You may want to consider purchasing a set of magnetic hooks. The stateroom walls are made of steel. This means that you can place hooks to hang up items for easy access and yet keep off the limited counter space you may have. For example, if you have a hanging toiletry bag, you can simply place a hook in the bathroom and hang it up. Makes for quick and easy packing and unpacking too.
Q: What about carryon bags? Anything that should go in there or should I just check all my bags at port? Just like on a plane, you want to place any valuables in your carryon bag. Items like medications, electronics and cords, travel documents and passports. You will also want to place your swimwear and perhaps a change of clothes if you do decide to swim. Your check bag may not show up to your stateroom for some time and you will want to have these items with you. If you are a reader, you may also want to have your book with you.
Note: Most cruise lines will allow you to bring a bottle of wine per person on board on embarkation day with a limit of two bottles per stateroom. If you opt to bring wine aboard it MUST be in your carryon.
