As I mentioned in my post a couple weeks ago about how to prep for a beach vacation, my mom and I are going on a cruise at the end of the month. It feels like we've both been planning our packing lists since we booked the cruise back in October. We both have very different packing styles. My mom packs for anything that could potentially happen - it's not likely to snow in the Caribbean, but you never know, right? On the other hand, I'm essentially just packing bathing suits and dinner outfits. I'm hoping this list strikes a happy medium for your warm-weather cruise.
Things to Consider
1: Onboard Activities - For example, are you planning on hitting the gym every morning or not straying too far from the poolside bar? Personally, gym clothes would never leave my suitcase. But, if you're trying to stick to your typical routine, definitely bring them along
2: Shore Excursions - Plan accordingly if you'll be doing a lot of walking, doing something more adventurous, or lounging on a catamaran.
3: Dinner Plans - You may just want to hit up the buffet instead of getting fancy for formal night, and that's totally cool! Or, you may want to bust out a fancy cocktail dress - which is totally cool, too.
4: Weather - Temperatures drop a bit in the evenings and it can get a little windy if you're wandering on the upper decks, so it's still a good idea to consider bringing an extra layer
5: You're More Than Likely Never Going to See These People Again - Dress how you want and don't worry about trying to impress anyone!
Carry On
Passport
Photo ID - I've been asked to show mine when ordering poolside drink
Cruise Documents
iPad & Charger
Neck Pillow
Sleep Mask
Book - I opt for a lighter one in my carryon and pack an extra in my suitcase
Water Bottle
Contacts Case & Glasses
Medications
Phone charger
Clothing
2-3 Bathing Suits
Coverup
2 Pairs of Shorts
3 Tops
Formal Night Attire - I normally opt for a cocktail dress, but this time I got a structured jumpsuit
3-4 Sundresses
PJs
Undies
Athletic wear - Like I said earlier, this one is totally optional
Light Sweater
Bathing Suit Picks
Coverup Picks
Formal Night Picks
Shoes
Pool Slides or Flip-flops
Casual Sandals
Formal Shoes
Sneakers - Depending on your excursions, you can leave these at home
Pool Shoe Picks
Toiletries
Sunscreen - I'm taking an SPF 30 and 50
Body Lotion
Makeup - I usually only bring the essentials (brow mascara, concealer, bronzer, highlighter, blush and mascara)
Makeup Remover
Face Wash
Shampoo & Conditioner - Most cruises provide these, but I'm a little picky with my haircare
Sea Salt Spray
Razors
Deodorant
Aloe or After Sun Spray
Toothbrush & Toothpaste
Contact lenses
Moisturizer
Band-aids
Advil - Or headache reliever of your choice
Curling Iron
OTC Medications - You never know when seasickness or an upset belly from overeating at the buffet will strike
Toiletry Picks
Miscellaneous
Beach Bag
Beach Towel - Towels are provided, but I still like to bring a cute one of my own along
Books
Camera - I mostly use my phone for pictures, but I plan to bring my Instax, too!
Pool Float - Floats on the private island are a bit pricey for the day, so we're going to bring our own
Sunglasses
Sunhat
Miscellaneous Picks
