Packing Tips

Home Choosing a Cruise Cruise Line Choices Choosing a Cabin All About Pricing First Cruise Cruise Questions Family Cruising Travel Insurance Preparing to Cruise Air/Sea Packages Packing Tips On Your Cruise Dining & Dress Codes Shore Excursions Staying in Touch Extra Costs Tipping About Us Travelocity Cruises at Priceline	When it comes to packing for a cruise, it took us forever to get it right. In the beginning, no matter how many times we ended up bringing home clean clothes--we had packed too much--we steadfastly did it again. And again. Finally, though, I think we have it down. Pack what you need. No more, no less, but just what you need! Hints Start by making a list. To a large degree, this will be determined by the dress code that will be in place on board the ship (see the article on that subject). Dress requirements generally fall into 3 categories: Formal: Tuxedo or dark suit for men, more dressy outfits or gowns for women. Informal (or semi-formal): Jacket, slacks and tie for men, cocktail dresses or pants suits for women. Casual: Collared shirt and slacks for men, casual dresses or blouses and slacks for women. Note: Many cruise lines only have Formal and Casual dress evenings. Others are casual all the time, so this will determine much of your packing. Check with the cruise line or your Travel Agent to find out the number of nights for each dress style. Before you begin to pack, lay everything out to make sure that you have everything on your list and that nothing is damaged. If two or more people are traveling together, mix your packing. Meaning some of each person's clothes go in each suitcase rather than everyone packing their own case. If a bag is lost or delayed, then everyone will at least have some clothes. Nothing important goes in the bags you are checking if you are flying. All important items go in the carry-ons (which should stay with you until you are in your cabin): Any medications Eyeglasses Proof of citizenship or passport A change of clothes if sailing from a warm climate. You won't have your luggage immediately after boarding. So if you want to change into lighter, more comfortable clothing than what you traveled in, include some shorts or a sundress in your carry-on.