All New River Cruise Tips: What We Packed

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

List of What We Packed: My striped t-shirt: amzn.to/4deWryD Carry-on luggage with rugged wheels: amzn.to/3XSWdZG Rain jacket: amzn.to/3TBJIix Chris' water-repellent down jacket: bit.ly/3XRnkUP Men's Pullover: bit.ly/3lH5dNR Umbrella: amzn.to/3XHOlce Crossbody bag: amzn.to/4eux0dm 2-sided sunglasses case: amzn.to/3ZuvNi3 RFID wallet: amzn.to/3Zy67ks Power bank to charge phone (no cord needed): amzn.to/3MQODZc My waterproof pants with stretchy waistband: amzn.to/3U69awH * Little zip baggies: amzn.to/4ee3yIO Band-aid stretchy things: amzn.to/4gwzR7v Gold Bond for Diabetics: amzn.to/4ecJqa6 Water repellent hiking pants: amzn.to/4edD22b Yoga pants: bit.ly/4dazr3K Nail clippers: amzn.to/3TztBlB Leak proof covers: amzn.to/4gy3R2Q Adapter (2 pack): amzn.to/4dfGwQw Converter: amzn.to/3ZAxfiS Dual voltage curling iron: amzn.to/4dwFrnP * Tide pen for stains: amzn.to/3BYImZ6 Mousse: bit.ly/47RBHLR Liquids bag for Europe: amzn.to/4e9denW Shampoo bar: lush.com Shampoo bar leak-proof bag: amzn.to/47yKCCf Eyeshadow brush: amzn.to/3XBKGwl Multi-use foundation brush: amzn.to/47yL7w7 Toothbrush for travel: amzn.to/3BhYGUI Face wash sponge: amzn.to/47SgZfr Antibacterial wipes: amzn.to/3zvQnE6 * Short necklace (can move charms): amzn.to/3TErahL Bracelets: amzn.to/3OPhaj5 Neutral cocktail ring: amzn.to/3ZxAG9U Jewelry case: amzn.to/3zpu3Mr Pink money pouch: amzn.to/4gCaHnS Pink longer pouch: amzn.to/3XPVAQv Hanging toiletry kit: amzn.to/47D6JYj Small lotion containers for trip: amzn.to/4gCHWaD Socks: bit.ly/4eJXMPK Medicine pill containers: amzn.to/4dfGFDy Arch support inserts: amzn.to/3ZzfmAV Black 3/4 sleeve top: bit.ly/3MODUyG 3/4 sleeve sweater: bit.ly/3YXn2Nc T-shirts: old Khaki shorts: amzn.to/4exrPJB Blue athletic jacket: may be back in stock Dress (order normal size-me size L): bit.ly/4dZtEi9 Striped sweater: amzn.to/3XRsYWR Blouse: amzn.to/3XPzM7A Eye glass cleaner: amzn.to/3BbsRNh Free Printable: traveltipsbylaurie.myflodesk.com/p3l58o8185 Travel tips for how to check for bed bugs on your cruise: bit.ly/How2Check4BedBugs Watch this for what NOT to pack for a long flight: bit.ly/TipsLongFlight Scared of flying? Watch this: bit.ly/PilotHelpsWithTurbulence

[@familylively]

What personal item? Did it work for you?

[@JohnPolchin-bj4sn]

I pack Q-tips and ginger mango mints made in Canada and have used my husband’s t-shirt for a nighty. My best clothes are never packed nor purses.

[@songbirdofva]

Did you take a metal coffee mug?

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

@@songbirdofva I did not.

[@johnarnold6623]

Adapters are extremely important. I was on a flight that was diverted due to a fire on American Airlines and we had to land somewhere in Canada. But because American didn’t have a flight there we had to wait in a 100x 100 area for 36 hours (yes it sucked). The most popular person was the kid with the $10 Walgreens adapter. Be the boy!! I travel now with adapters in every luggage piece i have.

[@christinatady4951]

I love Viking. We have taken so many excursions in the rain. Viking has huge umbrellas.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

We were so glad to use those umbrellas-they make for great pics. Hope these new tips helped especially the bed bugs.

[@arlenemaxwellcopeland1644]

Wow! You look so good without make up! Natural beauty! Hey, those look like the pants I bought for long travel for the same reason. I don't think mine look as good on me, but I LOVE how easy they are for travel, water resistant, with SPF, quick dry, easy wash, and so comfy.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Oh thank you!

[@kbrooks6354]

I was supposed to be on that cruise! Had to drop out due to a health issue. But my two friends tell me it was more of an adventure than it was a vacation. I can’t wait to hear all about it.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Totally! Glad you’re feeling better.

[@kbrooks6354]

@@TravelTipsbyLaurie thanks!

[@christinatady4951]

We always, always get there at least one day ahead of time to get over jetlag. A must going from L.A. to Europe. Plus, you get to explore the city you're starting out in before the cruise.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

We think that does help with jet lag before a river cruise trip.

[@marthameyer7918]

I’m going to pack 3 pair pants, 4 or 5 shirts, and my travel outfit will make another one. Plan on accessorizing with scarves and vests. Still debating about 1 or 2 pair of shoes. I did this on my past river cruise and was very happy with it all. No one seemed to care what you wore!

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Yes very casual. Sounds like a great strategy!

[@cherylmorrison2803]

Thank you so very much! Sorry you had such rainy weather and I feel for those countries that had flooding.❤❤❤

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Oh yes and the bed bugs didn't help.

[@suzannestone5050]

Wow how did you know I was planning on going on a river cruise for my 60th! This is perfect!

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Have fun!

[@karencondit7882]

Laurie, we got home last night from a Viking "cruise" on the Elbe River starting in Prague. We're calling this our LAND cruise. Because of a collapsed bridge in Dresden and epic flooding, we were in hotels and "sailing" by bus to Berlin. Two of the nights we were staying on a Viking ship (Astrild) in Wittenburg and the water went down enough to allow us to go on a 1 hour sailing adventure before dinner. The guests and staff were positively giddy on that beautiful evening. This was our 8th Viking river cruise and my first one to pack golf pants like you described. They were PERFECT for looking dressy enough and on the rainy days, dried before we got back on the ship, not to mention wrinkle free from packing and wearing. I'm a fan of those for all the reasons you brought to light. Many thanks for all of your packing tips and guidance, as we are also carry-on packers. I always get good inspiration from your videos. Danke!!!

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

I hear ya; when the sun came out and we could get outside, everyone was walking with quite a pep in our step!

[@pattynun1490]

As always, thank you for your travel tips. We have traveled on four river cruises (three with Viking): Danube, Rhine, Nile and the Ganges. All were amazing. We, also, travel light. We’ve been to 40 countries and have never experienced bed bugs. That must have been an overwhelming experience.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

It was still a great cruise! Thankfully we had not unpacked...well my green luggage was open all evening on the floor b/c I changed into shorts.

[@SLynnEasler-Weald]

@@TravelTipsbyLaurie I would have burnt it... I am sooo terrified of having bed bugs and being bitten and worse bringing them home. I just could not handle that at all! What did you do? Did you have everything steam cleaned at high heat?

[@rebeccathomas9804]

We’re flying home now from this exact same Danube River cruise. (Spend a few days in Paris) Looks like we were at the same ports at the same time, I just didn’t realize it. This is all excellent advice. One more thing I’d suggest everyone take, a good attitude and sense of humor. Those Vienna/Budapest winds and storms derailed our trip. So thankful for it though! ❤

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Welcome home!

[@shabuchan3132]

Cruise Tip - see if there is a YT video online for your exact ship and room type. That’s how I found out exactly what the plugs looked like and brought some European adapters so I can use all the plugs in the room.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

I totally should have and checked for bed bugs if you didn’t see those new tips.

[@rickcowan4664]

Thanks for this superhelpful video! We're packing for our Viking Rhine trip today and appreciate all your tips...

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

EEEK have such a fun and relaxing time.

[@cindyeans9447]

Just got back from our Viking river cruise, almost the same time! We had to be bused from Budapest to our next destination due to high waters on the Danube also. Made the best of it though! Viking offered us a $500.00 credit towards another cruise in an apology email; even though the weather wasn’t their fault! The crew said that at our final port, the water had been so low, that it was the first time they had been able to dock there in weeks! From one extreme to the other!

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Budapest was beautiful!

[@crrizello5157]

River cruises are certainly eventful! Our recent Bordeaux river cruise was wonderful. In 2022, the Rhine and Danube rivers were so low you couldn't get through. I love the small zip bags for vitamins, pills, earrings, etc. All Viking ships have both US and European outlets. I also have a set of Notes on my iphone as a checklist for leaving the ship: check the safe, remove the adapter from the outlet, etc

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Smart travel tips!

[@WriterSnider]

We loved our river cruises last year and this year. We both packed carryon for two weeks thanks to your tips!

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Oh great! Yes, these newest tips I was shocked to learn especially the bed bugs.

[@pamrochon5527]

Such timely information! I leave for my Viking cruise on Friday (Zurich to Paris). Checking a bag, so bring 4 pairs of shoes, 2 sneakers, flats and slides, 3 pairs of pants including water resistant, 1 dress, 1 jacket, 1 sweatshirt. Hope the rain stops before we get there. I hope you had a good time on your vacation, despite the setbacks.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Oh it'll be great! Be sure to watch the whole video for the updated things needed.

[@jenharvey8360]

That looks like such a fun trip (despite the weather!) I have always wanted to go on one of those. It doesn't matter where you plan on travelling or when, the trick is layers, layers, layers!! Sweater and jacket even if it will be a heat wave, tank tops even in winter. Silk scarves add both extra warmth and wardrobe versatility.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Yes and sit with different people each meal so you know everyone by the third day! And of course check for bed bugs.

[@jenharvey8360]

@@TravelTipsbyLaurie My skin is still crawling about the bed bugs! I pray none of them came home with you. I'd be tempted to just abandon my luggage at the airport and not try to deal with the possibility!!

[@SLynnEasler-Weald]

@@jenharvey8360 I would totally abandon my luggage and clothes, I wouldn't bring any of it back for fear of bringing a bed beg home.

[@alisoneichler4257]

We have taken many river cruises and will be leaving for another in 5 days. Never travel without rain gear! We got faked out on a trip in May - we all checked the weather … then they had an unexpected cold snap! Locals were wearing their winter coats and we were freezing. I recommend packing a light cashmere sweater to wear over a tee shirt and under a jacket. Bring a couple of scarves. Cruises are becoming more and more casual - the top you wear to dinner tonight with trousers can be worn tomorrow with jeans. Don’t hesitate to use the laundry service - budget for it.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Yes, like I said, that laundry was worth every penny. I'm so glad you like cashmere too-very effective layering piece. Hope these newest tips helped-even the bed bugs.

[@janicew6222]

Bless your heart, so sorry about all the rain problems! Going to get a rain jacket, headed to Hawaii next month and cruising the islands.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Ooh have a beautiful trip!

[@Gevedon]

Whee, whee, whee!!! That was a fun video! Great items and info, thanks Laurie!!

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@vickietobias7941]

Love all your tips tricks and videos! Enjoy your traveling!!❤

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Yay! Thank you!

[@TrippedTravelGear]

Another great list of must-have gear!

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Minus the bed bugs, they really are!

[@pamelalanders2055]

Those hiking pants are the best! I bought a pair for Alaska last year and came home and ordered a 2nd pair. When the weather is cooler, they are my most worn pants…you can also put leggings underneath them😊

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Totally agree!

[@ginaborbas2132]

Thank you for these Laurie… checking my list by your lists! Leaving for the Danube soon+

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Have fun! Hope the river is beautiful for your cruise.

[@ginaborbas2132]

@@TravelTipsbyLaurie❤

[@laddcalcagno]

I'm going on an AMA river cruise Paris/Normandy in October, this has been helpful. I'm glad it does seem to be casual. I'm doing a capsule wardrobe for the most part. Basically keeping my colors as black, navy and dark jeans, grey, and then some color shirts that could be worn with any of them. Fingers crossed the weather in France is better than Europe has been lately.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

I want my mom to see Normandy. Glad the tips helped!

[@lisaj3583]

I am also going on AMA in October. I will be taking the Normandy to Paris route. I hope that you can update your comments once you have taken your trip. I will be back to this video to update mine. Have fun!!!

[@kathiee.2013]

Indeed, it was an adventure! I'll be using THESE tips for my next travel adventure! 😊

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

I learned so many new tips for a river cruise alongside some awesome new friends!!!

[@PhyllisMcGuire-e2g]

I’m so sorry to hear about your Danube River cruise! We just returned from a Viking Danube cruise this week. We were fortunate to have had 3 days in Budapest before we boarded because we would have missed! Bratislava was was beautiful! But every stop on the river had evidence of the flooding; lots of debris floating down. Viking was very accommodating.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

It’s a beautiful river!

[@anne-marievr5710]

I brought Merrill running shoes on my Baltic cruise and my feet stayed dry, they are super supportive for high arch and supported my Achilles tendon.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Love them!

[@yaowsers77]

i love that toothbrush and the matador fold over bag thingy! i put my bar soap in it. they were awesome to have on my trip to london and edinburgh. for short trips, i'll just bring one of those toothbrushes that the dentist gives you at each visit and throw it out before i check out. i take one of the paper cups the hotel provides, turn it upside down and punch a hole in it large enough to hold the toothbrush.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Smart travel hack!

[@cindyann9571]

Sorry about your river trip. Glad you are home safe❤

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Thanks so much! Hope these updated essentials help.

[@margolawnerd2776]

Always look forward to your streams! WOW! What a historic trip! The flooding is awful! Stay safe!

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Hope these newest tips help you for your river cruise-especially the bed bugs.

[@mariasoosai9257]

Have always enjoyed watching your videos! My husband and I are going on An Emerald River cruise in November. We will definite be checking out what the weather will be beforehand!

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Ooh have a beautiful trip!

[@jeethwalgampaya7590]

It seems we may have crossed each other on the Danube. We were in a ship called MS River Sapphire, we were supposed to leave Vienna to Bratislava on September 14 at 4 pm but due to high rise of the waters on the Danube we left at 2:30 pm and bypassed Bratislava We spent two and a half days in Budapest. Except for that unexpected start, everything else turned out good. Got back home to California two days ago. How I appreciate, Orange County, California 🙏🏼

[@patriciafullagar418]

We traveled on a Viking river cruise and had a wonderful time and and NO problems

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

That is great! Weather can be a beast for airlines too.

[@robinps52]

Hi Laurie, I’m sorry your Viking River cruise was more of an adventure than you planned! I’m a dedicated Viking traveler, both Ocean & River, & regarding the cabin size: there are 4-5 different cabins on the rivers, depending on the actual size of the vessel. You can bring magnetic hooks to hang your toiletry bags, jackets, bags, etc. And their toiletries are wonderful! I’m lucky & have low-maintenance hair so that’s 1 liquid I don’t need to pack. As always, thanks for all of your tips! Leaving for the Viking Paris to Normandy cruise in 12 days & thanks to you, I’m ready. 😊

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

EEEK have such a wonderful trip!

[@dianashelton1371]

On my! We had a wonderful time on Viking on Danube: go back!

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

One day we will!

[@Cctexstitch]

Great tips. We just got back from our first Viking River Cruise on the Rhine ..no floods or bugs! So much cant be predicted and is not fault of cruise company. Definitely check the eeather and pack for rain. And definitely read ALL the cuise info. Ha. My comments...1 we didnt knw Switzerlands adapters are NOT like EUs! But hotel had extras. We had one night pn our own in Basel before cruise 2 We are ....cheap?frugal? And i did laundry in sink.using sosp SHEETS that worked great and the dryng line in the shower 3 We brought some manetic hooks and used them n the wall between the bath and bedroom and hung jackets and hats

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Love it! Frugal is a huge benefit!

[@SLynnEasler-Weald]

Cruise line is not responsible for weather, flooding, low water/high water, or for the countries travelling through response to any of the above. BUT, I would definitely hold them accountable for bed bugs as it is their responsibility to ensure the cabins/rooms/ship is clean, healthy and clear from pests.... well that is my opinion.

[@susanromberg7502]

Please do a video on how it works on a river cruise when they close the river. Do you sleep on the boat? Do you get bus to a hotel?

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Hi, I did talk about the things that they did with us in this video since the river was extremely flooded. It's near the middle and end.

[@CruisingEngineer]

We'll be taking our first land/cruise trip to Rome, Sicily, Greece next year and I put many of your suggestions on my Amazon travel list. Thank you, Laurie. (Wife of a DFW Pilot)

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Oh you'll have a great time. Remember the tip about bed bugs.

[@wandrousvindella716]

So many great tips Laurie. My first river cruise was for my 50th, then I was hooked. All of mine on Avalon ~ so sorry about that last night....geez !

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

We want to try AMA. They don’t have a reel? And it was beautiful!

[@JohnPolchin-bj4sn]

❤Loved your video and your back home!

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Hope these new packing list tips will help you and others!

[@Jbcatjilly]

$100 to get your laundry done?! 😳 I have done my laundry in my bathroom sink before. That would’ve been my option! 😆 but I’m cheap. (I mean frugal)

[@lindak8664]

I’m cheep too! 😂

[@StephanieSoltero-dt2wl]

Me too! No way I'd spend 100 dollars on that plus I would be very upset if they shrink any of my garments.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Oh yes and use the hotel shampoo if you do not have Tide sink packets.

[@againstthegraingolf301]

It depends on how much laundry you have to do, and the space you have or don’t have to efficiently dry them… we travel (full time) with necessities to do laundry, and prefer to do my own, but if there’s not adequate space or time to dry 4 days of dirty clothes for 2 people, ya gotta do what ya gotta do.

[@arlenemaxwellcopeland1644]

Who is the lady who cleaned your shirt? You mentioned a five day pre cruise stay and laundry, then the cruise laundry. Was it at a hotel? Is it affiliated with Viking? Very nice that the lady did your laundry with a big smile.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Hi! since I bought a first class ticket, I got to use the lounge before the international flight and they had laundry-it was United in IAH.

[@EileenSpeakman]

Hi Laurie. I've been trawling through your earlier videos. Diaper backpacks and bags - brilliant,, would never have thought of them. And using big ziploc baggies for laundering, what an amazing idea. . I'm going to give that a trial at home, see how much shaking/agitation they can take.. Perfect for items that can be hung up after laundering to drip and air dry quickly.. Sept'24. UK E❤

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Thank you for watching Eileen!

[@EileenSpeakman]

@@TravelTipsbyLaurie ♥️♥️. E♥️

[@carolynknierim6848]

Just an FYI, you can leave your shorts at home when travelling in Europe. Look around you, Eu4opeans don't w3wr them.

[@adaywithaleks6556]

What do they wear in the summertime?? Lol

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

I sure did.

[@kathybreger4686]

I'm disappointed you took down the video on the Viking bed bugs. I hope they compensated you well.

[@SLynnEasler-Weald]

I came back to watch it again, and pouff gone. Hmmm. It was real life and boy did Viking have to bring up their game on that! I think you were entitled to show what happened to you on your Viking river cruise. Honesty is powerful. I think it would have been good to show how they responded to this situation, and how they resolved it for their passengers. Now, that would have been good advertising for them.

[@kiddenbeu]

I totally think it’s worth it to spend the hundred dollars. Being able to just have a carry-on suitcase is so worth it ,not to be lugging a larger suitcase around. Plus when you are doing extra side trips you need to have clean clothes. My friend was on your same cruise & did not think Viking was very accommodating with the change in plans. It could not have been a shock to them that the river would be closed. Thoughts?? Love your channel. I have learned so many great tips. :) :)

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Yes carry-on is the way to go. It was a rough trip but airlines know that weather wreaks havoc on plans sometimes.

[@shelleywallis4569]

Hi Laurie. The little bag you put your Lush soap bar in, is it available at their store please ?

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Hi here it is: bit.ly/3VMhymx

[@AnneofSD]

Thank you for telling us about your experience on your river cruise. We're looking at going down the Danube as well. I'll definitely be bookmarking this video for some help about how to prepare for it, especially if we're going to be going to two climates! I hope you had a great time despite all the unexpected happenings and the bed bugs!

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

We love river cruising!

[@angiegreen7225]

Love your videos. We did our first Viking river cruise this year. The rhine. It was amazing. Which one did you take with visit to Italy?

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Hi, we rented a car and then drove back up. Hope these new list items will help update your next cruise-minus the bed bugs.

[@sarapanzarella97]

We took a Danube river cruise in June! We lucked out. Our cruise started a couple days AFTER the river was closed. We did have to be bussed 2 hours away at our first planned stop instead of Vienna, but the cruise line did a great job of pivoting and staying on track. Which is not surprising since it was a German line. :) We used Viva River cruises and loved everything about it. It was the first time we tried a river cruise and the excursions were included so we took every one. If I had to do it over again, there were a couple I would have rather skipped and used that time biking. Next time I might pay more attention to how much time we are cruising during the day. While I loved exploring the cities I also loved just watching the world go by on top of the boat and feel Iike I didn't get enough of it! It was much cooler feeling than I expected with the weather forecasts.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

It is such a great way to travel! We love river cruises; hope these new tips help you pack for another one.

[@cwp7338]

We are going down the Danube in a week. Expect the unexpected. Thank you for the tips.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

And check for bed bugs like I mentioned.

[@nancygant9156]

Check to make sure the trip won't be canceled or changed too much. Most good cruise companies will help make it right.

[@dave.in.oregon]

Would love to hear more about the River cruise and tips/suggestions for it vs a regular cruise. My wife & I are taking a Viking cruise next spring but have never taken a River cruise before. Have taken many ocean cruises throughout the years.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Hi Dave. I talk about what you do a few short times. It’s more personal. You try and sit with different people each meal and by day 3 you know almost everyone. Music or a game at night. And excursions in morning and afternoon. It can be tiring. And only 26 steps if you forget something in your room vs 3 floors. And I can swim to the edge of the shore if we start to sink.

[@deborahconkle6822]

Happy Sunday Laurie!! ❤

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

You too!!

[@Teachmond]

Hi Laurie, how do you all deal with your bedbugs ordeal. I always love your videos. Miki

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Hi, I cannot talk about it anymore.

[@Teachmond]

@@TravelTipsbyLaurie ok, NP.

[@debbiedemarco4934]

Love your videos!! We are looking at going on a river cruise. Any suggestions on which cruise line to go on?

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

I would research areas and then by dates or excursions. AMA looks amazing. I’ve heard the Door? river in Portugal is castles almost the entire route.

[@tammypearson4500]

Just ordered the raincoat! I hope it keeps me dry. I heard the weather is cold and rainy. Yikes... much different than South Mississippi! 94 here today.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Hope you like it! It was so hard to pack for!

[@tammypearson4500]

@TravelTipsbyLaurie Our friends in Germany said it's lousy cold and rainy in Europe right now. We'll be in the Netherlands for 10 days, so I'm hoping the raincoat will keep me dry on my walks.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

@@tammypearson4500 I hope you have a marvelous river cruise! Yes it was dreadful.

[@reginagillis7201]

Thank you so much for sharing. ⛴

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Hope the newest river cruise tips help you if you need a packing list.

[@sharoncronin-n8c]

What happened to the short that you had posted on the bedbugs. Did Viking ask you to take it down?

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

I cannot discuss it any more.

[@susanweiner9474]

I’ve been thinking about a river cruise but I wonder about the excursions. How many people are in an excursion group - is it divided into small groups or is it a large group. I find small group outings so much nicer.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

I feel like they can be more cozy. Maybe 20 would be a large one. They also have gentle walkers for more slowly walking passengers. And they fill up FAST!

[@EileenSpeakman]

One other travel tip. I have double ended cosmetic brushes, one like the kitten paw you mentioned, short bristles, very full,, do the eye socket crease, Other end is longer bristles, not full. . The other brush has a slanted fine bristle head, lining lower lid under lashes, upsweep outer corner,, the other end is full and fat. Good for blending. Blusher? Don't bother with a fat brush, just use a folded tissue or cotton wool cleansing pad to apply and blend blusher, eyeshadow? A small pallette of 5 colours but usually Just use the plummy brown and one of the highlight shades, and a separate dark almost olive green, very vibrant, to bring out my Hazel green eyes at night. Foundation - in a small travel pot. The soap pads/hearts - never used them. Would they cut/tear in half, and still be enough to wash face and hands? E❤

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Yes great ideas-I found that the kleenex for blush is too jagged of application.

[@EileenSpeakman]

packets of pocket tissues from a budget shop are softer (cheap and shred easily!) than kleenex, they work well, scrunch them up, and still flexible and soft. Dab on the blusher, when both sides look even just fade out the edges I don't travel abroad, just within southern England to family, and really appreciate all space and weight saving tips. Don't like too much weight in cross body bags so I look for bags with D rings that I can clip to belt loops - takes some of the strain and is an added security measure. No tabs and D rings? It may be possible to machine or hand stitch them on yourself. For packing I often use zjiploc food bags - very easy to press the air out before fully closing the zip. I also use freezer food bags that have handles, they are fairly strong - - individual items, or pouches, without any loops or rings can be put inside and the bag hung on a hook. . I have some flimsy supermarket freezer bags, flat, big square, press fastening plastic handles. . They have a thin layer of insulation between the plastic inner and outer. cut off the top handled part, and that inner insulation sheet is useful for all sorts of protective packing requirenents. You may even find a use for the two plastic sheets. E ♥️

[@fishandfloral]

One of our river cruises turned into the “magical mystery tour” when a new Covid variant broke out. One was impacted by extremely low water levels, while another was impacted by flooding. The rule is to be flexible and go with the flow, literally. We’ve been on the Tor before… water levels were high that time and we hit a bridge. It took off a bit of the railing on the sun deck. Oops! We’ve been on multiple Viking river and ocean cruises. They have always treated us well, given refunds or credits when needed and made sure to make things right. Thankfully, we have never seen a bed bug!

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

We had such a great experience on the Tor. Ferde was a staff member who made every meal top notch! Can't control the weather.

[@corgidusty]

I’m going on my first Viking River Cruise on the Danube in December.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Check your mattress for bed bugs! I did not for some reason.

[@corgidusty]

@@TravelTipsbyLaurie I will! I'm glad I'm not on the Jarl, but I know they can be any where. We're on the Vili.

[@AnnikenAllis]

There's been horrendous flooding in central Europe, i assume thats why you had problems. Weather extremes can happen!

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Oh yes it was awful plus the bed bugs.

[@Jody-ov2pk]

Oh wow! I fly out in 2 days for the Viking Amsterdam to Budapest cruise. If that’s where you are, any suggestions on temperature? I’ve got rain boots umbrellas and raincoat.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Hi, just check the weather and for bed bugs like I said.

[@martyscheall9626]

We love Viking River cruises! So sorry that the weather interrupted your trip! If you get the opportunity to do another cruise, their Portugal (Douro River) is outstanding! Hope you didn’t bring any unwelcomed critters home with you!

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Next time! Loved the staff. I’ve heard great things about the Portugal one.

[@Bob-tk2uv]

When you pack for the return home, make sure to leave the bed bugs over there!

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Seriously! We are 99% sure we did not bring any home.

[@sheilap2621]

We are on a Danube river cruise next fall so this was good information for getting prepared. Would you say you do not need anything remotely fancy for evening dining? Also, I've seen this recommendation in several videos for river cruises where the rooms are quite small: bring a couple of heavy duty magnetic hooks. The walls in your room are supposedly magnetic so you can hang up your jacket and/or purse/small backpack. I'm actually kind of shocked the cruise companies don't just install more hooks to take advantage of all that wall space(some ocean cruise companies have them but not all).

[@sarapanzarella97]

Our room on one of Viva river cruises newest boats was extremely well organized and had a place for everything. I would research the particular cruise line you are using to see about dress code. We went on Viva river cruises, I thought everyone was pretty casual, even though half the boat was filled with french people. IMO ANY black dress always looks nice I just took a jersey high neck one that was very comfortable and dressed it up with jewelry and jacket or shirt.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

And check for bed bugs like I mentioned. I wore the brown dress for the Mozart concert and didn't even need to. So casual. My husband said probably 3 times in the cabin, "Can I get by you?"

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Great tips!

[@sheilap2621]

@@TravelTipsbyLaurie We watched a YT video for our specific boat and room and definitely realized they are compact rooms, probably smaller than I thought they might be. I also travel in a carry on so don't have that many clothes to put away so I'm not worried about that. I think the magnetic hook is a good idea for hanging up a wet jacket. Just curious, even if you check for bed bugs and you find them, what can you do? Unless your boat isn't fully booked, there wouldn't be another room to move you to :(

[@terireid651]

If you can afford a River cruise you can have your laundry done. I always do, especially because for a River cruise you need daytime and nighttime nicer clothes. We are currently on the Viking River cruise in Egypt. Enjoy everyone.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Yes, it's kind of like investing that amount in the overall cost of the trip-like if people want to check luggage, add it to the overall amount.

[@Julu4]

Hi Laurie, what bag did you bring in addition to your rolling luggage? I'm referring to the black bag sitting on top of your luggage. Thanks!

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Hi! All links are in the first pinned comment for ya. A shopping sticker should also appear in the bottom corner while watching. I can put some items in that shopping sticker: bit.ly/3zruEwB

[@nancyswain2751]

Love your hair😍

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Thank you! Great window lighting!

[@ediemcdaniel2828]

Hi Laurie, can you do a video about how to call/text/etc when traveling out of the country.? Are there any options besides getting an international plan and paying high rates?

[@ontarioyamon]

Research ESims. They work great.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Hi, we use the $10 per day International plan from att.

[@Galacticsparklyfunbunny]

Great vid, thanks! I always hear you mention your shampoo bar but you never mention conditioner. Do you not need the conditioner with the Lush shampoo bar? I tried a shampoo bar and a conditioner bar once and they were terrible. Maybe Lush is a lot better. I have to have conditioner

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

I do not take conditioner. This is the only one I like because it’s dry scalp and suds up so much!

[@Galacticsparklyfunbunny]

@@TravelTipsbyLaurie oh, good to know. I prefer shampoo that doesn’t foam up or get sudsy

[@Galacticsparklyfunbunny]

@@TravelTipsbyLaurie oh, good to know. I prefer shampoo that doesn’t foam up or get sudsy and if it does, I definitely need the conditioner

[@KPknits]

Looks like you had to take down your former video educating all of us to certain perils while traveling? I hope you do release a new video to help us stay safe and healthy!

[@MsBackstager]

I can't wait.

[@lindaeischen5740]

What is the brand of your water repellent pants?

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Hi here they are: www.amazon.com/shop/traveltipsbylaurie/list/1FKUY57A3HBNU?ref_=aipsflist

[@patoNJ100]

Where you able to being the flat iron? We did a Mediterranean MSC cruise this summer and that was a big no-no

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Hi, we were allowed. Is this a US based cruise line? Our Viking and Avalon both did not say anything against them.

[@sueblaisdell2430]

We have been on 3 river cruises, 2 on the Danube and one on the Rhine. I have never heard a more convoluted recommendation of what to pack for a cruise. 4 pairs pants/crops; 6shirts/t-shirts, one rain coat, undies etc. If you are traveling in fall or early spring take a packable down coat. There's always a possibility of flooding or drought on the rivers. You can make the best or focus on the worst of uncontrollable circumstances. Nature has her way of throwing a wrench in your plans. All of the Viking ships are the same you do not need a converter, they are adapter friendly! We travel Viking exclusively!

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Hope these updates help others pack for their river cruise. We had some great memories minus the bed bugs.

[@sandyrowe3705]

Hi Laurie - I cruised with you on Avalon up the Rhine. Just wondering which cruise line you preferred - Avalon or Viking? Thanks!

[@debbiedemarco4934]

@@sandyrowe3705 I’d be interested in hearing her thoughts about that too!!

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Hi Sandy! We discussed that the whole time. Loved both! But the Tor room seemed smaller. Bathrooms were definitely smaller (3 boats in a week). Would do both again.

[@jeanne4436]

What happened to the short video you posted about the bed bugs on the Viking Danube cruise? Wanted my friend to watch it in advance of her cruise. Did someone ask you to take it down?

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Yes and I cannot talk about it ugh.

[@SLynnEasler-Weald]

@@TravelTipsbyLaurie I understand how frustrating that must be. I can only imagine the details that transpired. Keep your chin up Laurie, you were right to post it, and be reassured that many of us saw it.

[@elizabethsevereid7628]

How much do your. luggage weigh? We are having a hard time keeping it on spot for the airlines.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Hi we are never limited in weight here in the US.

[@fascination2525]

Yikes!!! Bed bugs on your river cruise??? I've never even thought of bed bugs on any cruise, but certainly not on a nice river cruise. Was there an available cabin for them to move you to?

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Oh yes and thankfully we had not unpacked!

[@akliana]

Is there a link to your husband’s pants from Costco? I can’t seem to find it.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Hi no but Gerry is the brand

[@rebeccaheinrich5238]

What was the pouch thing that your husband uses for his change?

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

It was an old amenities kit that held tiny lotion bottles. You can easily use this if needed: amzn.to/3zwZjco

[@philhebner4380]

Do I need a skirt or dress for dinners on my Avalon cruise?

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

I do not think I saw one during our April river cruise on them. On Viking we saw maybe 3 women wearing them on 2 nights. Very casual because you hardly have time to change outfits after touring. So fun!

[@andreaward6478]

Don't wear jeans in the rain - they soak up the water and take forever to dry. If you're unused to walking distances don't take brand new walking shoes, they need to be bedded in to avoid blisters.

[@sandrahintz2617]

I carry my hand sanitizer in my purse and always have tissues if you have sticky hands it will remove.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Oh good to know!

[@lorenadugan6355]

We went with Avalon (May 2023) 15 Day Amsterdam to Budapest. We saw the end of the Tulip Festival. We didn’t pack light coats for outdoors, the weather turned cool the first half of the trip. We packed 2 pair of comfortable leather shoes in case it rained, it didn’t. No water issues. It was a magical trip.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Ours in April was magical too. We got to see the Tulip festival with 30 million other people lol.

[@ruthrosamond78]

What gloves did you wear?

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Totally did not pack them but needed one for the umbrella hand: www.amazon.com/shop/traveltipsbylaurie/list/1FKUY57A3HBNU?ref_=aipsflist_aipsftraveltipsbylaurie

[@tinas4946]

Can you clarify the time of year? You went in September? That's a lot of rain. I wouldn't be used to that. LOL... still in the 90s here.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Sweltering here in Houston! It was Sept 14-21.

[@tinas4946]

@@TravelTipsbyLaurie Oh my goodness, I saw someone else's video on the same itinerary but it was from the 13th to the 20th and they had to switch 3 ships and were stranded at gas stations, etc.

[@mariettacobb344]

At 20 minute mark, you mention a Hack, then I think I hear you say, "had it hemmed up to my knee & tied it." What??? Please clarify "it" and/or the hack. Thank you.

[@mariannedressler6784]

I caught that too!!😂

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Yes instead of wearing it long just tie it.

[@Kimberly-Army]

I had a question. You mentioned shaving your legs. Can you bring a razor through international TSA?

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Hi yes! Just not a straight blade.

[@anniedew2592]

Do you know of a universal plug that works in UK & France or do I have to buy two different plugs? As it is I, I have to buy a converter for my husband’s CPAP machine.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Okay you may have missed when I talked about this and CPAPs in this video. They do not need converters. Also all links are in the first comment and description paragraph.

[@anniedew2592]

@@TravelTipsbyLaurie Thank you very much and Safe Travels ✈️

[@EileenSpeakman]

Good morning. Wet and wintry day in UK. And it's only September. Grey denim - never thought of buying grey, I have shades of blues and green. (not full on olive, makes me look jaundiced). And black. My black ones have black stitching. I buy them a bit longer so I can cut the ends off, and turn them up by hand. That way the leg hems don't look like jeans, they look like tailored trousers, ok for "no jeans" restaurants etc.. Longer top, jumper, not tucked in, and they don't look like jeans. I shall have to go and find some grey jeans ( and shorten them), perhaps in two different shades. Non travel tip - for daily winter, sometimes mucky, wear, I have mens "work" jeans. They are much thicker, rarely need thermal leggings under them - I haven't worn tights at all since January 2010, just socks with shoes or boots. Pickpockets - for travel I put all my handbag contents into a ripstop nylon drawstring bag, Put the bag, top folded over not gathered, inside the handbag. I know, fiddly when you want to get something out, but it's a problem for the light fingered opportunist. I've used material from charity shop lightweight waterproofs to cut, hem, and stitch an inner "flap" into handbags to fold down over the contents. It can be tucked down at the back out of the way. Charity shop waterproofs are a good source of material for making your own bags, each sleeve, cut off to the right length, will each take a shoe - no need to even hem, just tuck the ends in., the back can make bigger bags, the front, with pockets, can be doubly useful. E❤

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Smart ideas!!

[@SLynnEasler-Weald]

very clever & I love that you are recycling, repurposing/ upcycling the fabric in the water proof items from charity, thrift shops!

[@patoNJ100]

Small magnetic hooks are great in a cruise, the walls are all metal!

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Love that idea!

[@ChasingTravelAdventure]

My lil toe does the same 🤦‍♀️

[@aadolan3347]

The end of the trip made my skin crawl!

[@donnabaardsen5372]

What?

[@knk9657]

@@donnabaardsen5372 She had bed bugs!

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

Thankfully we found them before unpacking so I really hope none jumped in. But we’re treating everything as if we did.

[@rachelsuchla2408]

The laundry on AmaWaterways is more reasonable. I’m going down Danube in December. Hope the water levels will be ok.

[@TravelTipsbyLaurie]

@@rachelsuchla2408 I feel so bad for them because it also flooded in June. It's supposed to be just beautiful!

[@jenharvey8360]

Oh yeah, never go anywhere without wet wipes and a shout wipe in your purse/pocket!!