I absolutely cannot wait to be going on vacation in a few days. My parents, sister, and I will be heading down to Puerto Rico for two days where we will then set sail on a 7-night Caribbean cruise. I have been working nonstop for the last few months (and feeling a little burnt out admittedly) so I am ready for a few days of much needed R&R. But first, I need to pack.
When I pack for a cruise, I try to go as minimal as possible. It has taken me years of cruising to get to this point, but I have finally figured out what to bring without going overboard. (Ha. Ha.) No more extra “just in case” or “what if we happen to” outfits. Instead, more pieces that can serve more than one purpose/wear and can mix and match with each other. Everything fits nicely into a carry-on for the pre-cruise stay in Puerto Rico with everything else for the week packed into a medium sized suitcase.
THE RUNDOWN
CLOTHING
For Day:
Bathing Suits. First and foremost! I pack a minimum of three swimsuits so there is always one available to me while one is drying. (And for some variety.)
Rompers and Sundresses. I like to call rompers and sundresses the complete outfit as they are the perfect throw on and go outfit for shore excursions and days at sea. They also work dual duty as they make great coverups!
Tanks and Shorts. Can’t go wrong with this summer staple outfit! I packed one pair of denim cutoffs and two tanks to alternate with the rompers and dresses.
Workout Clothes. I pack at least one workout outfit per cruise so I don’t fall out of my routine and also so I can take advantage of the classes offered onboard at the gym like yoga, pilates or TRX.
Loungewear. Essential for downtime while relaxing in the stateroom. I also always bring a silk robe with me for the occasional breakfast on my balcony and for getting ready in the evening. It is vacation after all!
Warm Layering Pieces. While it may be hot, hot, hot onshore, the ship is always freezing cold. I always bring a light sweater or wrap and a sweatshirt to keep warm. I also make sure to have a pair of joggers in case of evacuation, as advised by the cruise line.
For Night:
Formal Wear. For formal night this year, I am bringing a gown that I wore a few years ago. It’s made of a jersey material so it will pack well without wrinkling.
Casual/ Smart Casual Attire. With the exception of the formal nights, every other night is pretty casual. My evening outfits range from really nice tops with dark denim to dresses and heels. Basically, I pack and wear what I would for any night out at home given the season.
SHOES
Flip Flops. Essential for the pool, beach, and just strolling around the ship.
Flat sandals and espadrilles. Comfort is key!! I will bring a pair of each to go with the majority of my outfits and to give myself options.
A pair of sneakers. Primarily for the gym but also works as a closed-toe shoe option if it rains.
Heels for night. Long gone are my days of bringing a shoe for every outfit. Heels add weight to luggage so I try to keep it at 2-3 pairs, max.
ACCESSORIES, ETC.
A few other things I absolutely must have with me are a pair of sunglasses, a bag for the daytime and an umbrella for those unexpected rain showers. Last but not least, I don’t travel anywhere, let alone a cruise, without Sea Bands. Ever since my cruise on Anthem of the Seas, I have been preaching the good news of Sea Bands because they are an amazing, all-natural alternative for motion and sea sickness. I truly do swear by them.
Once I have everything together (including underwear), I pack everything into packing cubes, gather my toiletries and head to the airport because my flight leaves in three hours and I just finished packing.
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