Over the years, we have often talked about cruise luggage.
We’ve looked at what to pack, what to bring in your carry-on, and the must-have essentials you shouldn’t forget.
However, I’ve noticed that there are still some very common mistakes among cruise ship passengers. Everyone makes them, no matter how experienced.
For this reason, I put together a list of the mistakes that almost everyone makes. Take note, and you’ll be one step ahead when getting your suitcase ready for your next cruise!
1. Overpacking
Overpacking is one of the most common mistakes. Almost every cruiser I’ve talked to admits they’ve done it at least once, packing way more clothes than they actually needed.
I know it can be tempting to add more clothes to your suitcase, but try to resist the urge.
Estimate how many outfits you’ll actually need based on the length of your cruise and stick to the plan.
A good rule of thumb: one T-shirt or top per day and a pair of bottoms for every other day. That way, you’ll have enough without overstuffing your suitcase.
Remember that there are stores in each port of call. So it’s better to bring less, and in case of need or emergency, you can always buy something.
2. Bringing new shoes
Another widespread mistake is to bring a completely new pair of shoes that you have never worn.
Many people, knowing that they have to go on a trip, go shopping and buy new clothes to wear for their cruise.
This, unfortunately, doesn’t work for shoes, especially shoes you will wear during an excursion.
New shoes can hurt your feet at first and may require time to adjust to your feet’s shape.
For this reason, I always recommend bringing a pair of sneakers that you have already used and know are comfortable (even after many hours of walking).
3. Packing clothes from only one season
A cruise isn’t like a typical vacation where you stay in one place for days. You’ll be visiting multiple destinations, and the weather can change drastically from one stop to the next.
One of the biggest mistakes you can make is packing only for one season.
Here’s what I do: I pack mainly for the expected season but always throw in a couple of pieces from the next one.
For example, if I’m cruising in summer, I’ll bring mostly summer clothes but add a couple of fall items, just in case the temperature drops.
The other tip is to choose clothes that can be worn in layers, one on top of the other. For example, opt for blazers, cardigans, and jackets.
I would also like to remind you that some clothes are prohibited on cruises. Check the article on what not to wear on a cruise before you pack.
4. Packing prohibited items
As I have said several times before, some things are forbidden on cruise ships.
You can probably guess what these banned items are: anything dangerous, sharp, flammable, or that could be used as a weapon.
Just a quick reminder: irons, candles, illegal substances, and similar items are also a no-go.
For more information, check out my article on why you can be denied boarding on a cruise.
5. Forget the slippers for the cabin or the pool
One thing I’ve forgotten more than once, and maybe you have too, is a good pair of slippers or flip-flops for the cabin, pool, or beach.
Last time I packed, I was so focused on bringing the right shoes for excursions and formal outfits that I completely forgot to throw in a pair of flip-flops. Lesson learned!
Fortunately, they are quite cheap, so I bought them as soon as I found them in a store near the beach.
6. Bringing travel adapters
Another common mistake I see is bringing unnecessary adapters for charging electronic devices.
Most modern cruise ships have a mix of international outlets and even built-in USB ports for charging phones and other gadgets.
Usually, one international adapter is enough. In case you need another one you can always buy it in the stores on the ships or in port.
7. Forgetting Essentials
Let’s finish this list with the last big mistake: forgetting the essentials!
Keep in mind that, when you are packing your suitcase, there are some things that you can forget at home, it won’t be a big deal. But others are absolutely crucial, and forgetting them could ruin your trip.
At the top of the must-pack list: personal documents. Without them, you won’t even be allowed to board the ship.
You should also pack any daily medications. These can be tough (or even impossible) to replace while traveling, so double-check that you’ve packed them before you leave home.
Don’t forget to check the list of the 20 cruise essentials that you should always bring on a cruise and the list of 43 things people always forget to pack for a cruise.
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