Packing Tips & Checklist

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We’ve all been there. One of the pesky nuisances of any journey is leaving behind something you needed. It could be an item you can easily replace, like a hairbrush, a crucial document that will cripple or even cancel your plans, or even a family member (remember Home Alone?)!

Even the most seasoned traveler can forget the basics when they don't have packing tips & checklist. That’s why we have put this handy list together for you. Before you go on your next vacation, whether by cruise, airline, or rental car, make sure you’ve taken care of these travel essentials. But first, be sure to download the Cruise Planners Mobile App, free from Apple or Androidto access all your travel information as well as communicate directly with your Cruise Planners advisor anytime. 

The Bare Travel Necessities

Be sure to pack and keep these important documents within reach at all times.

  • Driver’s license/ Other government photo ID
  • Travel Insurance Policy Number and Contact Phone Number 
  • Birth certificate
  • Boarding pass
  • Passport/Visas
  • Travel Documents/reservation itinerary
  • Credit or ATM Cards/Cash
  • Immunization records

Travel Basics

Pack these essentials along so you won’t get stuck paying inflated prices at cruise ports of call, on board, or at your vacation destination

  • Toiletries (shampoo, conditioner, lotion, toothpaste, contact solution, etc.)
  • Sunscreen and aloe
  • Prescription/over-the-counter medications
  • Cameras/camcorders/memory cards 
  • Batteries
  • Cellphone/electronics chargers (make sure you check your cell-phone’s roaming charges when leaving the U.S.) 
  • Plastic storage bags 
  • Alarm clock
  • Electric converters/adapters or multiple plug outlet 
  • First aid kit
  • Hand sanitizer 
  • Nail clipper

Getting Carried Away 

What goes in your carry-on is both an exercise in logic and an exercise in restraint. You don’t want to pack large bottles of liquids that will only be confiscated at the airport. On the other hand, you might want a convenient outfit swap for that “worst case scenario” of an airline misplacing your luggage. If you want to hit the pool as soon as you arrive, keep your bathing suit in your carry-on. But if you’re traveling from a warm climate to a cool one, pack a scarf or sweater. Here are the items we’d put in our carry-on luggage. And of course, those of you who need to stay plugged in at all times will need to make room for your electronics (and their chargers).

  • Casual change of clothes
  • Formal change of clothes
  • Extra pair of shoes
  • Toiletries and necessities
  • Important medications
  • Bathing suit and sunscreen
  • Entertainment or snacks for kids 
  • Laptop/tablet
  • Charging devices for electronics

Luggage Shipping: Ship Bags Worry Free with Luggage Free

Luggage Free is a specialty service offering travelers the ability to ship luggage ahead to any destination worldwide, allowing you the ability to avoid the inconvenience of carrying, checking and claiming luggage – even going through customs. The luggage shipping service is guaranteed, allowing the traveler to avoid unnecessary aggravation and save time – safely and in style. Let Luggage Free be your valet to your hotel, golf resort, cruise or nearly any other vacation spot worldwide. They ship bags to and from, so you don't have to. Request more information from your Cruise Planners Travel Advisor or visit Luggage Free.

Destination Known 

Now that you know where you’re going and what you’ll be doing once you get there, you’ll need to pack accordingly. Keep in mind what activities you have planned, and the weather conditions during your travel. Some trips may take you through multiple climates, so bring a variety of clothes if needed.

  • Check weather conditions prior to traveling
  • Plan outfits for each activity or day
  • If cruising, plan for formal dinners and day outfits (check with your cruise line about formal or themed nights, which may impact your wardrobe choices) 
  • Always pack some extras, you never know!
  • Comfy shoes such as a pair of sneakers are a must-have when sightseeing

Don’t forget hats, socks, gloves, and other accessories. It can get chilly once the sun goes down in some climates; pack accordingly.

Extended Vacations 

If so, here are some items that will help keep your vacation running smoothly if you are staying for an extended period of time. 

  • Foldable shoe organizer for extra storage
  • Clothes hampers/bags
  • Extra hangers
  • Laundry detergent
  • Foldable duffle bag/pack souvenirs/pool bag or additional storage

Traveling with Kids 

Your little ones may need special attention or entertainment during your trip. Be sure to pack those extras for them!

  • Card games
  • Portable gaming electronics
  • Tablet with movies and games. Don't forget the headset!
  • Walkie talkies
  • Inflatable pool/beach toys
  • Books/puzzle books
  • To-go snacks and beverages
  • Children’s medications
  • Baby wipes

Your Cruise & Vacation Experts