PROPER CRUISE SHIP PACKING

How many times have you been on vacation only to discover that you left
something importance at home?  It happens all the time and a vacation
aboard a cruise ship is no different.  One of the best ways to pack for your
upcoming cruise is to start with a list.  This way, as you pack various
items, you can cross them off the list, ensuring nothing of importance
is missed.  Remember, unlike other types of vacations, while on a cruise
you do not have the luxury of stopping by the local Wal-Mart to pick up a
few items.  Sure, you could buy some things onboard the cruise ship but
you can be sure you will spend a pretty dime!

When packing, in addition to considering the types of activities
aboard the ship, the different excursions and tours, and whether there
is a themed or formal dinner, you will also need to think about security
checkpoints your luggage will go through.  For the luggage that will be
checked, you might consider using packing organizers.  These create
compartments inside the luggage, making it easier for security to
check without all your belongings being torn apart.  Then, always plan
to take a carry on bag that would include one change of clothing,
deodorant, makeup kit, and important documents.  Try to keep this bag
light, containing only a few convenient things for you while making it
easy to go through security.

With your list, determine the number of outfits you will need each day.
Lay the clothing items out on the bed for day one, to include
undergarments, shoes, jewelry, etc.  As you determine what you need for
each day, pack the items neatly in the suitcase, marking that day off the
list and then moving to day two.  Using this method for packing will
ensure you take the proper items without over packing, a common problem
by many people taking a cruise.  To help keep your clothing neat and
organized once you have checked into your cabin aboard the cruise
ship, you can purchase a small steam iron and an over-the-door
organizer.  These organizers can be purchased for less than $10 from
most retail shops and are great for keeping shoes, hats, scarves, and
other clothing items in one place.

If you have several items that you know will get wrinkled, you might want
to invest in permanent press shirts or pants for the trip.  Another tip is
fold clothing up inside tissue paper, which keeps the wrinkles to a
minimum.  Once you get onboard the cruise ship and your luggage is
delivered to your cabin, although you will be excited to look around,
take a few minutes to hang clothing up or place them neatly in drawers.

If you are traveling with a friend or spouse, keep in mind that you will be
going through one, possibly two airports as well as the check-in for the
cruise ship itself.  Rather than packing suitcases for each of you
separately, consider packing each piece of luggage so there are
outfits for both of you.  This way, if one of the suitcases should become
lost or delayed, one of you will not be without clothing.  While this is an
uncommon problem, it does happen.  Again, you could replace the items
onboard the cruise ship but at a hefty price.

Once the suitcases have been packed, you want to make sure they are
secure.  Therefore, be sure your luggage is both zipped up and locked.
You can purchase small locks for just a few dollars or even use cable ties
sold at hardware stores.  After attaching, simply clip off the extended
end and the suitcase is nice and secure.  Now, before you secure the
luggage with a lock or ties, check with the security check points at the
airports.  In most cases, airport security does not mind if you secure
suitcases but not until they have gone through official screening.

You also want to take a minute to tag your luggage.  Airlines have
complementary tags at check-in or you can purchase permanent tags.
Regardless, to reduce the risk of your luggage becoming separated from
you, this simple step can save tremendous headache.  Once you arrive at
the port where the cruise ship will depart and you have checked into your
cabin, do not panic if your luggage does not show up right away.  In fact,
because cruise lines take security so serious, you need to be patient,
allowing each passengerís luggage to be properly checked.  In most
cases, the luggage will arrive to your room prior to dinner but for some,
it could be later.  For this reason, wear something onboard the airplane
that would be appropriate for dinner aboard the cruise ship or remember
a change of clothing in your overnight bag.