Cruise Packing List

Okay, I guess you can say my sisters, parents and I are quite experienced when it comes to cruises. We have come to learn that cruises are very affordable and so much fun! I have only been on cruises through Carnival and I have had great experiences that I don’t foresee me going on any other cruise line.

Oakley Shades / Similar

With an upcoming cruise trip, this trip has inspired me to create a Cruise Packing List. I am aware that there are many different types of packing lists out there, but I specially wanted to include the type of clothing you should consider when packing for a cruise trip. I have learned a lot since my first cruise and I seriously over packed and did not bring the little things I needed. I’ll publicly admit it, Erica (my older sister).

 

Things to consider:

#1 Don’t over pack
After waiting in line for 45 minutes to check in at Carnival I was totally regretting packing those extra three pairs of heels – which I didn’t even end up using. When packing for a cruise just take items you need and know you will put to use. I usually alternate my tops and shorts during those days on the cruise. Truthfully speaking you want to be comfortable and trust me no one is going to realize the mix and matching of our outfits. Use the list for guidance as far as how many tops, dresses, and bottoms you should consider packing. I love shoes, trust me, but you won’t need to take more then one pair of heels.

#2 Dinner Wear
Carnival usually has one to two formal dinners, which means when you attend dinner on formal night you must have proper attire. No sandals, shorts and jeans are permitted so packing one dress and skirt should have you covered. Now, you don’t need to attend formal dinner you can always have dinner at the buffet area. My family and I prefer the formal dinners.

#3 Port Wear
Obviously going on a cruise will require swimwear so I suggest taking two to three swimsuits. You can always alternate these if you choose to swim more than the three days. I usually end up using swimsuits two or three days, only because the ship has so many different activities going on through out the day. During port days I wear my bathing suit under my clothing. My family and I typically visit ruins during our trips, which is why I suggest taking tennis.

#3 Carry On
The first time I went on the cruise I used one of those oversized cute victoria secret bags for my carry on and I hated it. I wanted to look like one of those stylish girls from a magazine, but whom am I kidding? It got heavy and uncomfortable to have on my shoulder when I was waiting for check in. After seeing my sisters standing comfortably in their backpacks, I learned real quick to take a backpack the following time which I like to add was much more comfortable. Make sure to include the items I suggest on your carry on. If you do choose to check in your bags and have kids make sure to pack a set of clothes in case you or they chose to swim when you board the ship. Our bags that we check in usually get delivered outside our rooms later that evening.

#4 Cruise Expenses
I remember going on my first trip and not being sure what was free or not. Once you are on the ship, the only expenses to worry about, is alcohol. If you drink soda, then I recommend buying the bubble pass the first day you board on the ship. They will have signs in different areas for this when you board the ship. I recommend cash if you plan to gamble on the ship. Each room has a personal safe where you can securely leave your cash in. I also recommend small bills for port days. You will need this for taxis, gift shops, excursions and local restaurants. I highly recommend having lunch at the ports because the food is delicious.

#5 What you can and can’t take:

Always double check with your cruise line what you can and can’t take aboard. Just to give you a heads up; there are no irons in the rooms so you might want to iron prior to packing. Carnival restricted list.

God Bless You!

Robin Lee
Darkness cannot drive out darkness: only light can do that.
Hate cannot drive out hate, only love can do that.
Martin Luther King