Jumping Up and Down On Your Suitcase? Tips on Cruise Packing

It's time for your long-awaited cruise, and you have yet to tackle getting packed for the trip. First things first, get your cruise packing list together and then use some of these cruise packing tips.

If you're a first time cruise passenger, you may be wondering if you're limited to a certain amount of luggage. While most cruise lines do not have baggage limits, there are a couple of considerations. If you're traveling by air to get to the cruise ship, the airline's baggage limits apply. Generally that's one carry-on bag per person and that bag must fit under the seat or in an overhead compartment.

Given the current world situation these regulations change constantly. Check with your airline before you start to pack and check again the day before you leave. It's not uncommon in this day and age to see people re-packing at the airport to comply with security requirements.

A measurement rule of thumb is that the luggage should be no bigger than 9"x14"x22" total dimensions and less than 40 pounds. Checked baggage generally should be under 70 pounds, although most airlines allow heavier or oversized baggage for an extra cost.

Don't Bring What You Don't Need

Another consideration is that your cabin is not the size of your bedroom at home. You have to have room to move around, so don't bring baggage you don't need.

Before you start packing ask your travel or cruise agent about any special clothing requirements. Do dinners require formal wear, for example? Also think about inexpensive items you can buy as you need them, instead of packing them.

An important tip to remember is if you're traveling with a friend, family member or spouse, divide your items into two or more pieces of luggage. If you lose one with the airline at least you will both have something to wear. Otherwise, one person arrives with everything and the other with nothing but a carry-on. A second tip - make sure that items you just have to have with you, such as tickets, passports, toiletries, medications and some clothes, are in your carry-on.

Mix and Match Clothing

So, how to pack for a cruise? When you're starting to pack, pick clothing you can re-use. Mix and match your outfits the best you can, to give you several different looks with a minimal number of items. Cruise formal nights may not be your cup of tea and formal wear takes up a lot of room. So, if formal nights aren't your thing, take a cruise that doesn't have them or at least has an alternative dining area.

You will most certainly have access to an iron on board, and check ahead to see if your ship has laundry facilities.

Here are some more cruise packing tips. If you're heading to the tropics, bring lots of light cotton. If you need to check in with folks at home while you're away bring your cell phone. You will be able to use it when the ship is near land or in port.

Continue to: The Most Excellent Cruise Packing Tips