Cruise Packing 101

It's that time! Embarkation is days away and I am ready to set sail! Well, mentally ready to sail. Unfortunately my suitcase does not reflect my enthusiasm. As a novice cruiser I will continue to tweak my packing strategy while getting the most bang for my buck. Oe lesson I learned on my first voyage was not to over pack, so I will fight my girly tendencies and make some hard decisions on what to leave at home.

Here is my packing plan:

Daytime:
2-3 bathing suits
Coverups: typically a long tank top, cotton shorts, or loose pullover dress

Flip Flops

Dinner:

Maxi Dresses are my nighttime staple. Easy to get into. Comfortable. Appropriate for al dining and evening activities on a ship. I typically wear flats instead of heels. Last time I brought heels and NEVER wore them.

Toiletries:

Shampoo/Conditioner

Razors

Body Wash

Body Lotion

Deodorant

Facial Sunscreen

Oil absorbing face papers

Toothbrush 

Toothpaste

Hairdryer (cruise line permitting)

Medications:

Dramamine

Benadryl

Pain Controller

Tums

Pepto

Allegra 

(I may seem crazy but you never know how you will react to something or catch a bug. In that case, trust me, you will want to be prepared.)

                                                    Excursions:

Of course you have to keep in mind what you are doing, but for a typical day getting off the ship and walking around the shops I take:

Khaki shorts of a reasonable length (No shorty shorts. Just my preference.)

Light shirts/tanks

Sunglasses

Cross-body purse (small)

Sun-dresses