🌊 Cruise Packing Must-Haves: What’s in My Bag for Smooth Sailing
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PACKING!!!!
Whether it's your first cruise or your fifth, packing smart can make all the difference. Here’s a look at some of my go-to essentials for a cruise—especially if you’re flying in or traveling with family (links included!). Every item in this photo was thoughtfully picked for function and fun:
🧳 Travel & Luggage Essentials
TSA Locks – Controversial for cruise check-in, but a must if you're flying.
Luggage Straps – Keep your suitcase secure after airline or port handling.
Luggage Tag Holders – Waterproof and reusable. Print your tags ahead!
Vacuum-Seal Travel Bags – These compress clothes and save space. Mine even includes a USB-powered mini vacuum for the return trip.
Laundry Hamper & Detergent Sheets – You never know when you’ll need to do a load. Sheets are lightweight, mess-free, and TSA-friendly.
AirTags and AirTag Holders – Track your bags from airport to cruise port with ease. No more wondering where your suitcase is!
✈️ Our Carry-Ons, Side by Side
Here’s a peek at how we packed our carry-ons for this trip. Compact, colorful, and cruise-ready!
Mother Daughter Carry Ons!
We made sure to include everything we might need before our checked luggage was delivered to the cabin, like:
Swimwear
Lanyards for our Sail & Sign cards
A refillable cup
Extra shoes
A change of clothes (especially for Bee)
Goggles (a must for pool time!)
And of course... SUNSCREEN 🌞 (which we completely forgot—don’t be us!)
Tip: Cruise luggage delivery can take several hours after boarding, so always pack your carry-on with Day 1 in mind. If you’re planning to hit the pool, eat lunch, or explore the ship right away, you’ll want your essentials handy.
🛁 Bathroom & Organization
Shower Organizer – Hang your toiletries and keep them off wet counters.
Silicone Bottle Covers – Stop spills before they start.
Dove Body Wash – Because you deserve your own favorite scent, not just what’s in the dispenser.
🎉 Fun & Functional
Cruise Ducks – Hide them around the ship and join the fun. It’s a thing. Google it. 😄
Magnetic Door Decorations – Not only fun but helps you spot your room in those identical hallways.
Magnetic Hooks – Hang wet swimsuits, hats, or whatever needs a place.
🚢 Cruise Musts
Power Strip (No Surge Protector!) – Most cruise lines restrict surge-protected strips. Get a cruise-approved version to keep your devices charged.
Lanyards – Essential for holding your Sail & Sign card (aka your cruise ID, room key, and onboard wallet).
Motion Sickness Bands (or patch) – You might not need them… until you do.
☀️ Pool & Port Prep
Swim Shoes – Great for rocky beaches or slippery decks.
Towel Bands – Wind-proof your deck chair.
Sunscreen – Reef-safe and water-resistant is ideal.
🎒 Excursion Gear
RFID Wallet – Protects your cards while exploring off-ship.
Small Crossbody Bag – Hands-free, secure, and perfect for excursions.
🥤 Extras Just for You
Stanley Tumblers – With silicone boots to avoid scuffing. Stay hydrated and stylish.
Energy Drinks (Alani Nu) – Know your cruise line’s drink rules—limits often apply.
Pro Tip:
Don’t wait until the night before to pack. Lay things out, check the cruise line’s policy on what’s allowed, and think about what’ll keep you comfortable and stress-free on board.
🛳️ Need last-minute cruise essentials?
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