PACKING CARRY-ON ONLY FOR A CRUISE: 15 Tips, Hacks & How-tos

Pack wth me carry-on for a cruise! Packing light for a cruise can be a challenge. These cruise packing tips, tricks & hacks will help you to pack for a cruise with only a carry on bag!
In this video, I share what I'm packing for my cruise, including day & evening wear, cruise essentials & toiletries. We go over packing organization hacks to help you pack better for your cruise vacation! Carry on luggage is an important part of not overpacking for a cruise.
I've partnered with Level 8 Luggage & they have sponsored this video.
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CRUISE ESSENTIALS
Hanging toiletry bag: amzn.to/3Nb8fFY
Carry on travel bag: amzn.to/3NwzJHv
Nautical carry on bag: amzn.to/2TH7L3T
Magnet hooks: amzn.to/3wZgj77
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Black swimsuit: amzn.to/3ptoFmv
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Cosmetic bag: amzn.to/46rfqE5
Shoe bags: amzn.to/3PKMUr7
Pill box organizer: amzn.to/3JCTFXW
AirTags: amzn.to/3tIOttp
MORE CRUISE ESSENTIALS
Over the door organizer: amzn.to/3Dx2m1N
Passport holder wallet: amzn.to/3f6VqNW
Cruise lanyards: amzn.to/3uNZBFb
Cruise card holder: amzn.to/3EWtRUL
Travel binoculars: amzn.to/3iRzO9P
Poo-Pourri: amzn.to/3vJCaM8
Waterproof phone cases on lanyards: amzn.to/3iXCuT6
Travel alarm clock: amzn.to/3iYuYXN
Night light (motion sensor): amzn.to/33eMEqP
Water shoes: amzn.to/3G14O1g
Reef safe sunscreen: amzn.to/3rHUlRS
Travel fan: amzn.to/3uMc24t
Bonine: amzn.to/3NE87zo
Travel luggage scale: amzn.to/3tIbzAX
Luggage tag holders:
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Level8 Luggage (save 10% with code LIFEWELLCRUISED10): www.tkqlhce.com/click-1007209...
ULTIMATE CRUISE PLANNER: lifewellcruised.com/ultimate-...
More Items we LOVE @ Life Well Cruised Amazon Store: amzn.to/3QaoV29
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*Business inquiries & media: please contact Ilana at [e-mail]
Please note that I am unable to give personal cruise and travel advice. If you leave a comment I try my best to answer.
ABOUT ME
Hi! I'm Ilana! I live in Montreal, Canada with my husband Frank. We can often be found dreaming about and planning future cruises, ideally to hot and sunny destinations! I believe in having fun, being kind and that you are never too old, or too young, to live the life of your dreams!
Please note that I do not sell cruises on Life Well Cruised. This and all other videos are for entertainment purposes only. I share my own opinions, personal experiences and information with other cruise travellers, which I hope can be helpful. Please contact your travel agent or the cruise line directly for advice and any information specific to your booking.
Some of the b-roll footage courtesy of RCCL
Music Credit: Surf Time by Lux-InspiraMusicMusic

[@MaureenAO]

Rolling tip: Roll multiple items together. This further reduces wrinkles and creates more room. I stack 3 to 4 tops, or other like sized items and roll away.

[@allboggs5337]

Wonderful tip! Thank you!

[@LifeWellCruised]

Good tip

[@angellamiller12]

Thanks!

[@amandadorton4149]

Great info thanks!!

[@robertaviles8451]

Thankfully, I already do that, since I live in a travel trailer, and space is a luxury! 😂

[@shellymutch]

I learned many years ago how to travel light with a carry on and have never looked back. The key for me is 3 bottoms, 5 tops and everything goes together. So no matter what you grab it goes together. Also, no more than 2 shoes, one to wear when traveling and pack one. No one really cares if you wear the same thing twice. I have done this while traveling to Europe for 2 weeks. We just returned from our first cruise - 2 weeks in Alaska both sea and land and we did it with a carry on and small day pack. Try it - you will never regret traveling light.

[@michellehughes5385]

On a personal note, you are such a lovely and inspiring person. I enjoy watching your upbeat videos. They’ve helped me through my battle with cancer and in preparing for my upcoming cruise, where I hope to celebrate being cancer free. 🙏. Thank you for all of your tips and your positivity about cruising well.

[@smileforsonya1]

If using soft luggage, put a plastic garbage bag on both sides of your luggage. Pack your clothes in the bags and you will be fine. Hard shell is generally heavier. Thanks for the great tips.

[@karenmuller6955]

Just came back from a 7-day cruise where my luggage never made it. I did have time to buy a few fill-ins, but I didn't buy much because the airline was promising delivery at our first port. Fortunately, I traveled in black pants (as opposed to leggings) and a plain t and pullover, so I was presentable, if not a fashion plate. I had one pair of shoes, one pair of pants, three t-shirts, one cardigan, one pullover sweater, a hoodie, two changes of underwear, jewelry from my carry on, and some toiletries. Period. I went to all the evening meals, hiked, did day excursions, explored ports. The cruise line has a closet of items people had left behind which they wash and loan out. That gave me aother t-shirt. I'd have liked a second pair of pants and a change of shoe, but I'm here to tell you that really can make it with very little. I had a great time and met a lot of terrific people.

[@LifeWellCruised]

Wow! Poor you! Sounds like you made the best of it & did great

[@ashleys4652]

Something that has been a game changer for me is packing things that you really love and want to wear twice. For example, I used to pack an evening outfit/dress for every night of the cruise. Pack dresses that can be hand washed in the sink if need be and wear it on another night. If you do that with all clothing categories,(day wear, swim, work out ,shoes) you can literally pack half the amount of clothing.

[@LifeWellCruised]

Smart 👏

[@orthodiva7487]

Wear the dress at night first since you’ll probably wear it for only 2 hrs or so, then wear it again two days later.

[@juliatarrel1674]

@@orthodiva7487 Careful use of accessories helps make one dress look like two.

[@orthodiva7487]

@@juliatarrel1674 totally agree

[@roseq536]

I’m 5 days away from my first cruise and I’m binge watching your videos and can’t wait !! Feeling more or over prepared before I start…better than being under prepared 😅

[@02sparklestars02]

We are very minimal packers. We are willing to wear clothing more than one day. Not underwear or socks. We’ve only once taken more than a checked bag and carry on that we normally check so we don’t have to drag it through airports. We always have a minimum of one stopover so checking the carry on makes things much easier. I also have my purse and a wheeled under seat bag that has all the essentials for the day and meds, etc. I may try packing my purse next cruise but then I’ll have to dig in the under seat bag for passports, wallet, etc. I too use packing cubes but use folding packs instead of rolling clothes. I can’t ever seem to get them to be non-wrinkly. Underwear and socks go in a 2-sided cube with one side plastic lined for dirty UW and socks. I agree with Ilana about 2 bathing suits. You’ll always have a dry one at the start of the day. I do need to get better at color coordinating our clothing, or rather mine. My husband wears blue jeans, navy slacks and navy shorts so anything goes with that. Men’s shoes are a pain. I do use them to tuck small things in, such as handkerchiefs, electronic cords and chargers. I ALWAYS take extra cords. On one trip my cord died and to get another cost me $30 since we were in a airport and going to the Amazon where I might not be able to get one any cheaper. One tip I have is rather than take dewrinkler, take a small empty spray bottle and a hotel size conditioner. Once on the cruise, squirt a little conditioner into the bottle and fill with warm water. Shake well. The solution is the same as dewrinkler. Works great. Just a little drop or 2 is enough. We went on a 15 day Panama cruise with just those bags and the steward kept asking us if those were our only luggage. One thing to help with packing less is remembering that no one pays attention to what you wear anyway and if they do, who cares. You are on vacation and won’t see them again once you disembark.

[@caroleanne8529]

Your last sentence tells it all; it is great advice. The only person concerned about what you are wearing is you.

[@LifeWellCruised]

Love your comments & smart DIY for the wrinkle spray

[@juliatarrel1674]

Colour coordinating trick 1: Choose a neutral. Mine is grayscale. You can find black shoes everywear. Gray marle T-shirts are also everywhere. You can get black or gray (or white) clothes in almost all styles. 2: Choose your family of always-safe colours. Mine is the cool colours: blue side of purple, blue, blue side of green. 3: Choose a family of 'wear this to feel amazing' shades. It might be pastels. Darks. Neon-throwback-to-the-80s. Mine is the jewel tones. I can always reach into my closet and get today's clothes. Neutral pants, safe top. Neutral top, safe skirt. Or just neutral neutral neutral. Or safe safe safe. Then if I don't want to feel 'amazing' today, but don't want to be boring, I can grab an 'amazing' scarf for hair ornament or statement necklace. If I'm dressing for a party or a formal event, I wear an 'amazing' dress, or pair of separates. If I want to play it for maximum effect, I make everything 'amazing', look in the mirror, and replace one amazing item for safe or a neutral. And that's how I colour coordinate. I'm too lazy to have to choose clothes every. single. day. But I do confuse shop assistants. I only buy clothes when I need to replace something.

[@00clgordon]

I like your personal bag in this video! I don’t think you listed it? Would you mind sharing? Thanks !

[@02sparklestars02]

@@00clgordon if you are talking about our luggage. Since our first Panama cruise we’ve gotten new luggage. I liked our old. Bag duffles but the handle on the larger, 25”, would start to catch when closing. That led to an irritated husband. Not good. So I decided to get a new bag. Since eBags doesn’t make them in other colors than Navy and Black anymore (I never buy those, colors are easier to find on the carrousel) I decided to look into other brands. I settled on Monos. They are more expensive, but since we travel relatively often, I decided to get highly rated ones. I found a coupon and they were on sale too. Bonus. I bought the large one. It worked so well I got a carry on size this year. Just got back from a cruise where my bag got dropped on its corner on a bus and dented in pretty badly. As I wanted with some wheelchair pushers they commented on how good my bag was, even with the dent. Most they said would have cracked. When iwas unpacking, the corner popped back out. I am very impressed.

[@briannickerson6858]

For our 21 day cruise this past January, we only had a carryon and backpack each. We had tested the concept out on our two week trip to San Diego in 2022 and it worked just fine. A few of the benefits were (1) no wait in line at departure airport to check bags, (2) no wait at arrival airport for luggage carousel, (3) walk right to the taxi before other passengers who are at the luggage carousel. Same benefits at end of the cruise or trip. The key, of course, is having convenient laundry facilities. Our AirBnB apartment in San Diego had washer and dryer in the apartment. On the cruise, we are long time Holland America cruisers and shipboard laundry is free. One other factor is the destination. We only cruise in winter to the Caribbean for a break from New England winter. And San Diego is warm all year round. If we were going to a colder destination, the carryon concept probably wouldn’t work. Since we leave New England in winter for the cruise and return in winter,it means we have to dress accordingly for the flights. The solution is what LL Bean (we live close) calls “three-in-one” jacket. It is a waterproof outer shell with a detachable inner fleece. Together, it can keep off cold and wet weather. Separately, the outer shell is a light raincoat and the inner part is light covering for a chill. And it never has to be packed in luggage. Another thing is we always book non-stop direct flights. There are many benefits of doing so and one of them is not having to shlep luggage from terminal to terminal half way into the trip. Mary was skeptical about carryon for the cruise, but it worked very well. In fact, I thought for myself I could even pack less for our cruise in 2024.

[@debralynn7328]

Heading home tomorrow from 17 day trip to Italy (bookended a 7 day Mediterranean cruise with 3 in Florence & 2 in Rome prior, and 2 in Venice after.) used Level 8 textured carryon and an extendable backpack. (And Travelon purse-they let me on all flights with all 3!) All neutrals, mostly linen, tencel and cotton. 4 dresses, 4 linen pants, 2 t’s, 5 tanks, 2 sneakers, 2 heels, Naot sandals, a packable hat, a light jacket, 2 linen oxfords, 2 bathing suits and wore everything 2 or 3 times. Used laundry soap sheets for sink washing. Tons of toiletries, makeup, travel hair dryer and flat iron, etc. Never did this before and was fantastic! Can’t believe we made it work. Highly recommend!!!

[@tobiebrave]

Carry on every time! I think the key is limiting shoes. One pair sneakers, one pair flats, one pair heels and make sure all outfits coordinate with those. Love being able to carry off the end and not checking a bag in the plane.

[@LifeWellCruised]

True 👏

[@kimbucha2949]

Yes! Hubs and I travel often on our motorcycle. We learned how to pack light and we love it. I make use of laundry in hotels and on ships. game changer!

[@cruisecrazy7066]

It is sooooo much easier to be a guy. Clothing for 30 day cruise = sandals, 1 pair shoes, 1 pair shorts, 1 bathing suit, the pants I am wearing, 3 underpants, 4 shirts, 6 pair socks, plus laundry. (Unlimited, free laundry if Elite on Princess.). No makeup, no perfume, no hair products except comb. Just basics. (Guys are naturally beautiful) LMAO

[@halnarlenegasch5083]

We used some of your tips for our recent 7 day cruise to Alaska on Royal Caribbean Monarch of the Sea. We flew in the day before, carry on only and it was a game changer! I bought the pop up hamper, the magnets for our room and the foldable hangers. So glad I did! I cut up Earth Breeze laundry sheets and was able to wash things in the sink. We each had clothes we didn’t wear too. Always room for improvement 😅

[@meloniefitch181]

These are great tips! Thank you! We returned a week ago and I have to say, the excess of luggage in our group was a huge hindrance! For example, we used Uber for land transportation and many in our group had to reserve bigger cars and travel by themselves just to fit all their luggage. Those of us who packed light had the ability to share ubers. We also had some mobility issues in our group and packing lighter would have allowed for a little less stress. :) Packing light is such a great skill.

[@LifeWellCruised]

That’s very true. Good point about room for luggage in Ubers

[@LGnLA]

I am team # CARRY ON, for all the reasons above lol, peace of mind is PRICELESS!!! And a pet peeve of mine, folks who don't 'pack light' wanting help with their excess luggage... 👀 (I go grab a tea or the restroom lol). 😂💯❤️

[@user-es2fd8bj7h]

I'm not planning to pack light for my 12 day cruise, but the tips in this video are for everyone. I think it is important to pack your carry on almost as if it will be the only bag that reaches your destination - it may very well be!! Thanks Ilana! I so hope I will run into you some day on a cruise :)

[@LifeWellCruised]

Very true! I always have a couple of days of clothing just in case 😬. Fun to meet you too

[@anitagreg2010]

We had inlaws that flew in the day of a cruise to the Baltics (duh), the baggage missed the ship and didn't catch up with them for 5 days. They had no clothes except the ones they were wearing on the flight. Live and learn.

[@KreeH2023]

Great suggestions! I go with soft shell because of their ability to expand/squish as needed. A trash bag works well to keep things dry inside. A few other things to consider ... rubber bands to hold things together (ex. shoes, even rolled items), extra various sized zip lock bags (just in case), water proof bag for do-it-yourself laundry, ... Also wear your biggest/bulkiest items on the plane.

[@vickirao7775]

Try large towel bands instead of the towel clips. They really help reduce space and hold the towels down better on the pool deck!

[@tjhumphrey7010]

I am so encouraged with this light packing from a traditional overpacker such as myself. We sail again this September and I have pledged and promised to pack lighter!

[@tommierush2539]

Last fall we had a Baltic Sea in September, a Hawaii in October, and a Caribbean in December. Right out of the box we lost luggage in Copenhagen and it took 3 days to reach us. We went carry on next two cruises. Both were for 11 days. Midway through we had our socks and underwear laundered. Frankly we found carry on the way to go.

[@heatherqualy9143]

Leaving in 4 days! And my sister and I are doing carry on only. We 100% did NOT want a hard sided case. Because after a week on the ship in the Mediterranean , we are spending another week taking trains across Italy to Rome, Venice, Bologna…running for trains and cobblestone streets. NOT good for roller bags! 😂 Some great tips in here, though, as always. Thanks!

[@stacifortune8826]

I packed carry-on only for a two week trip to Europe. Nine days were in very hot weather on a cruise and four days in cool and rainy weather at a hotel. The Amazon purchases that really helped me maximize what I could fit in my carry-on were compression bags where the air can be rolled out and refillable squeeze pouches for my toiletries! I also used 1 oz spray bottles for some of my liquids even though I purchased 3 oz travel bottles initially (wrinkle release, hair spray, heat spray), which were great for saving space! I also had to purchase a new carry-on bag right before my trip because the handle on my old one broke. I decided to go with a softside bag because they are more flexible. But that's a personal preference for me. Love your videos! I watched many in preparation for my cruise and thought they were really helpful. Keep up the good work! :)

[@lynneshapiro3248]

1. I LOVE your video presence, your hand and arm movements for emphasis, your smile, you are a PERFECT KZbinr and blogger. 2. Such a GREAT point re: hard case carry-on vs. soft bag!!! It's especially great because if you like me are a techie, we NEED waterproof carry-ons!!! In SoCal it rarely rains, but you NEVER KNOW! 3. If you have a long dress or skirt and it turns cold,/cooler, you can wear the crop leggings under the dress!! I did that in January in South Carolina in January, with a long skirt and shoes. 4. I caNOT believe you got ALL those dresses into that little cube! 5. I'm taking two bathing suits as well, but wearing one under my embarkation outfit. 6. I love that when you're on the gangplank you have your rolling luggage, your striped bag hooked on, AND you have your red bag over your shoulder! With these three things, it seems that doing only carry-ons could REALLY work! The multiple carry-ons idea could also work for separating certain things, like tech stuff, casual stuff, and dressy stuff.

[@LifeWellCruised]

Thanks so much Lynne for your comments & great tips :)

[@user-de7so8km2j]

Used to love cruising to dress up. Now most people don't even try! I get the pack light thing, but my husband and I exercise a lot, he has size 14 shoes, and we still wash clothes. I'm having difficulty packing light for a 11 day cruise, 3 days in Venice and 2 days in Rome.

[@elizabethrosario2877]

Love your videos. First time cruiser and binge watching all your videos! Thank You 😊🥰🛳️

[@sherrijustice6482]

That's one advantage of checking a bag when flying. You can pack liquids in it.

[@joahetchells326]

Great idea stack your luggage. Traveling with your wife requires that she packs light also. If you pack light you can leave the ship early.

[@mstenacious274]

Carry-on only (22 inch luggage and a personal item duffle bag) is a game changer. It’s the only way that I travel and it saves so much time. Interchangeable outfits (lightweight like rayon), is a must when going this route. 💞

[@LifeWellCruised]

Great! Thanks for sharing

[@cherikavanaugh9608]

This will be my first cruise in 33 yrs, how many dresses and shorts would you pack for 7 days if going carry on only

[@whiskeytango5680]

@@mstenacious274 Wow, you've put so much thought into it! Thanks.

[@cherikavanaugh9608]

@mstenacious274 thank you so much

[@brigittes5955]

​@@cherikavanaugh9608remember to pick clothes that can do double or triple duty. I have a sleeveless red v-neck jumpsuit that I'm wearing 3 times. Once by itself & twice with different tops (btw the tops have double duty too). Less formal dresses can be worn to dinner, then during Port days sightseeing & shopping with a flat sandal. Heck, I'm even wearing my rash guard as one of my layers on the plane. The important thing is to be comfortable and enjoy your cruise 🛳

[@Angiehere-1]

We just went out of state to visit family. We each just took a carry on bag. It was so nice to just deal with one small bag! Plus, no waiting for your bag at baggage claim!

[@beachymamaadventures]

I absolutely LOVE packing cubes! Game changer!

[@saritaduplessis8367]

Finally we don’t have to fly to our Port for cruising, driving there, unlimited weight, yay!!

[@allboggs5337]

Always helpful tips, Ilana, especially about the hard case luggage. I’m adding that to my next batch of items to purchase as well as packing cubes. Your channel is fun and inspiring to watch, and your delivery is spot on and enjoyable. Thank you for keeping it real!

[@BeefromSC]

As always thanks for sharing your thoughtful packing tips!! 🛳🛳

[@Laura-beau6]

Thanks Ilana! Always appreciate your videos and tips. I’m in Montreal so it’s extra helpful to know you’re coming from the same reference point regarding travel and weather. If you know you know! And BTW your videos are always “helpful, informative and enjoyable “. 💕

[@deniseyoung3738]

I was the world's worst over packer, but now take a carryon only! The cruise cabin stays nice and tidy with less stuff also!. I take tankini's for bathing suits to have some mix and match there also!

[@KatieGoesPlatinum]

Super helpful video! I love how you lay out everything so clearly and concisely. It helps!

[@sokhoeunchau5503]

I love your videos and taking cruises. I've booked 2 cruises for next spring. Both my husband and I used our carry-ons & a backpack last December on a 7 days cruise and it worked perfect. Thank you for sharing your wonderful tips. 😊

[@laurenschenck5355]

SO EXCITED!!🏝️🩵🩵💛💛🩵🩵🩵🏝️🏝️🏝️🩵🩵🩵💛🌞🌞💛🩵🩵🏝️🏝️💛💛🩵🩵💛💛🌞🌞💛🩵🩵🛳️🛳️🛳️🛳️🛳️🛳️🛳️🛳️🛳️🛳️🛳️🛳️🛳️🛳️🛳️🛳️🛳️🛳️🛳️🛳️🛳️🛳️🛳️

[@tonijohnson6335]

We just purchased the Level8 Carry on piece of luggage a few weeks ago. WOW! It is GREAT! Also, very light. Thanks for these great packing tips!

[@ACruisingGoodTime]

Great advice!! We have been following you for a few years and your tips are always helpful!

[@tamilu40]

This is very helpful! I’ve cruised many times but you still gave me new ideas!

[@maryanneorloff5527]

Thank you for your informative videos. We are planning a January cruise and I have been watching all of your videos. Such great information and I feel so ready to pack our bags.

[@rebeccaeastland8025]

This was super helpful. I’ve been on two cruises, and I have yet to pack correctly! I’m using your cruise packing list next time, and I’m using a few of these packing hacks too!

[@susancampbell2112]

I love my Level 8 carry on luggage! It's so nice! Quality built and great designed.

[@ShaktiShelly]

I'm so impressed that you(a self confessed over packer) were able to get all your stuff in carry on,

[@LifeWellCruised]

Haha I do like choices

[@myraweinstein396]

Terrific video Ilana. Thanks for sharing ❤️

[@sypnani]

Already buying another carry on for my wife. Sailing on labor day weekend in a 5 days cruise. Your tips are being very helpful. Thank you.

[@sobossy3052]

Carry on only is the way to go! You just have to commit and forget about it! It’s so liberating! Thank you

[@lulyperez3770]

Definitely what I needed. I've been struggling on how I'll pack just a carry on for a cruise but this helps a lot

[@LifeWellCruised]

So glad this was helpful! You can do it 👏👏

[@harperwood3562]

Fantastic tips! They will definitely help me in 2024! Regarding shoes…I used to travel almost every week for work, so I would plan outfits (business and casual) around two pairs of shoes. Will do so for the upcoming cruises! Thank you!

[@markhestand101]

We just got back from Alaska cruise on Princess Discovery, and we followed your advice on getting packing cubes, magnetic hooks, and doing layers. Unfortunately, for us Alaska average weather last week was in the 70’s.😮 my wife rolled and packed all our clothes in cubes and we survived with 1 suitcase and 1 carryon each. Great tips, thanks

[@leighmeyer5982]

This will help a lot on my Caribbean cruise in December. I'm a terrible over packer when i drive, but flying to port for this one. I didn't think it would be possible for me to get everything in carry-on (extra essentials for the cabin, etc), but I'm encouraged now. Thanks!

[@dalinisim6560]

I’m usually overpacking with my Caribbean trips! But this June I had Alaska experience and was able to pack my carry on carefully and traveled without extra stuff. Really enjoyed it.

[@LifeWellCruised]

That’s awesome 👏

[@user-ff3ow9ym5t]

I put a garbage bag at the bottom of my suitcase and another strapped in on too. Works great!

[@LifeWellCruised]

Good hack

[@paulaabrams88]

Great idea!!I use the plastic bag from the cleaners but the garbage is a better idea.

[@donnariemersma431]

I took the plunge and ordered the level 8 yellow luggage.. carry on and 26 inch. With discount and free shipping! We bought a cheap one before our first cruise and it didnt go over carpet without falling over thus making our duffle bag on top fall off too!! My other Sarah Brown large suitcase was great. I think these hardsides will be wonderful...😊 thanks for showing them. The yellow will make for easy finding too and those spread out handles make great sense. Even cheap suitcases cost alot and then dont work. Tx again for your great tips and experience..Donna

[@peggywoods4327]

My last cruise was carry-on and personal bag only. I used a Matein backpack as my carry-on. Minimal toiletries and capsule/interchangeable wardrobe. Had plenty of room for extra things like a little fan, flamingo towel clips and magnet hooks 😊

[@LifeWellCruised]

Awesome! Thanks for sharing

[@bethlilley6079]

I will be doing all carryon luggage. Thank you for the tips!

[@user-us7mw7ku4f]

I love your advise. I have cruised since 1979. You are the best. 🎉

[@clarencewilliams9432]

You're so correct about packing per day/night. Sea day and port days. I pack long sleeved polo shirts with long chinos for night wear. The ship gets cooler to me. I have two pairs of shoes (double monks), brown and blue. One pair of all white sneakers for port and sea days. This is a great video, especially for women. Please to all the men, take heed and let's get to cruising.

[@donnakrueger3889]

I can’t wait to see your video from this cruise. I’ll be going on my 1st cruise, on that ship the very end of August, beginning of September. I’m nervous, but oh so excited. Going with my sister for a late celebration for her 60th bday. Have fun and be safe! ♥️

[@LifeWellCruised]

That’s awesome!!

[@joethecomputerguy1]

I only go carry on only. A 10 day cruise was a tough one but I still was able to do it. 7 day Alaskan was also a light tough but def did it. All that money saved on checked bags baby!!! Yezzzzzzz!!

[@juliehampton4394]

Model ships, Christmas ornaments and shot glasses are our favorites.

[@verafurci6117]

Thank-you for your wise advice, dear fellow Montrealer. Will definitely try packing as you suggest for my forthcoming cruise. I always pack way too much!

[@annenorthman8154]

Enjoy your cruise! Can't wait to see your posts on Instagram! Thanks for this video. 💖

[@LifeWellCruised]

Thanks for watching! I’ll definitely share my upcoming cruise on IG

[@suzetteperrin8223]

Planning is key! Love my packing cubes! Next cruise is 16 days-challenging for what to bring since it starts cool and ends warm. Thanks for all the good info.

[@caroleanne8529]

An idea for your cool weather clothing - take a couple two gallon size freezer plastic bags. You can fold cold weather clothes flat, put them in the bag and sit on it to squish out all the air before sealing it all the way. This will make a flat package that will not take up much room in your suitcase. Of course, there are other more expensive options, but it has worked well for me.

[@LifeWellCruised]

Definitely a challenge!! Let me know :)

[@wee-subwilson1897]

9 days to go until my first cruise!!! I can’t wait, I am so excited. Ilana, I have been watching your videos every week and I have invested in a lot of items that you have mentioned in your videos, the packing cubes and the magnet hooks. Also travel adapters and a case for my charging cables. Also lanyards etc. Many thanks for your very enjoyable and helpful videos. Keep on cruising!! 17:17

[@LifeWellCruised]

Yay! Your cruise is almost here!! Enjoy!!

[@j.g7506]

Enjoy your first cruise! Your gonna get hooked. 😊

[@jenniferperkins4529]

Loved this video! So very helpful! I absolutely love your videos! 😊

[@LifeWellCruised]

You’re too kind! Thanks for watching 😊

[@kristlav1]

My husband and I just did a 7 day plus a few in Florida in April, all with our carry-on and personal! We each had a regular hard roller carry-on and the large weekender beis bag. Of course, I over packed and know we can go lighter next time!

[@LifeWellCruised]

Fabulous 👏

[@user-sy6bj4cz8z]

you gave me a lot of info, we are first time cruisers, Ive watch almost all of your videos and it helps a lot. By the way I love the way you wear your Dresses, now im thinking to bring more of my dresses on my Cruise nxt wk. Thank you so much

[@lizboone4194]

Hi Ilana First I want to thank you. I went in my first cruise July 16on MSC. At first I didn’t want to go. I don’t swim and I was not aware of some things you do on a cruise. My sister and I went in a cruise with my 17 year old cruise because he graduated with high honors in June. We started planning last year. But we started looking at your videos. You gave information that we didn’t get from travel agent. The information put me at eased and prepared me. And yes I enjoyed myself.

[@whiskeytango5680]

Great tips, Ilana! I prefer carry-ons to minimize hassles (and save time) at airport and cruise port. My next cruise is a 21-day positional, so this video is a Godsend! You will be hitting 200K subscribers very soon. Congrats!

[@LifeWellCruised]

Wow! What a cruise! Thanks so much

[@nancystanley8828]

Another tip is to use disposable plastic shower caps you pick up at some hotels or dollar stores. I use them as shoe covers so my clothes stay clean in my luggage.

[@sportsMike87]

So excited I'll be going on my first Alaskan cruise in October with a back pack and carry on for that cruise.

[@LifeWellCruised]

Awesome!! Enjoy!

[@camimills584]

Thank you for all the great tips!

[@Yvonnepn17]

Yeah, my first cruise 2 weeks ago I over packed. Lesson learned.!

[@sabrinalavdisarnold825]

I like the zippered partitions in those suitcases, rather than the straps!

[@meggmegg6656]

A note about the silver gray carry on bag and to not overload it with heavy things. I opened it up to expand it partially and the top handle attachment popped off where the stitching is for the strap to use to carry it on your shoulder. I was able to use it with the hand carry handles. I had medium size camera, 2 full plastic waterbottles, umbrella, rain hats, toiletry bag with meds in it. The Lifestraw water bottles are heavy but they make any water taste fine so I like them. I probably had a few other things in there too.

[@LifeWellCruised]

Oh no! I usually use my bags & hold by the handles, but good point it could be heavy for the strap is filled too much

[@WineAndRoses9526]

Thanks 🎉Great informative video 👍

[@MiaHessMusic]

Thank you so much, what a great vieo! I too, am a chronic overpacker!!

[@vickiehanson9381]

Hi Ilana, I have been watching and learning from your videos. My husband & I are taking our first cruise ever soon and I've even re-watched some of your videos. LOL. Thank you so much!

[@LifeWellCruised]

Yay!! Hope you have an amazing cruise!!

[@kaycook2089]

I feel for you that your air out because man he is too. Your packing tips have helped so much. Thank you.

[@cbradyorganize]

I've used the expandable luggage for gifts I'm bringing home. I've also checked a bag going home, when I'm not as concerned about loosing a bag or something delaying my arrival to the ship.

[@chrysvest4746]

KZbin knows me too well. I just came on to search for a video like this, and here you are.

[@LifeWellCruised]

Haha 👏👏

[@rallegra]

Lands End has a current sale in Men’s 7 inch Hybrid Lined Swim Shorts. $11.00 They look like really nice shorts that you can wear into the Buffet, etc. after you dry off from the pool. In addition to patterned ones they have solid black, khaki, blue and others. They’re comfortable and look just like shorts. Nice for those of us who can’t carry off Speedos any more! 😉

[@yolandabranner6200]

Thank you. I learned to roll up our clothes from my daughter in law. When we went on the Disney Cruise my daughter in law packed my grandson clothes for each day in large zip lock bags. Which include the outfit, underclothes, socks and face towels. We always take our own towels. It helped a lot plus he had a toiletry bag as well. Swim shoes and shoes that can be worn as everyday and dress wear. Thoes level 8 luggage is way out of my price range thanks alot enjoy your cruise

[@LifeWellCruised]

Great idea

[@BUYBLUESHOPPER]

Ur great! Im a zip lock packer instead of packing cubes

[@wendybrown500]

I am going on an Alaskan cruise in a few weeks and am packing carry on only. I am a basic lady so it shouldn’t be too hard. This video was helpful, thanks!

[@LifeWellCruised]

Glad this was helpful! I have a couple Alaska specific videos for clothing recommendations. Have fun!!

[@empresswb641]

Ring a jacket fir the glacier calving. We went in July. I had on my hat gloves and 20 degree weighted winter coat from Minnesota. I was very cold. Of course we watched/listened from the bow.

[@blktauna]

I have the level8 aluminum. Fantastic thing.

[@MORBIDbEAUTY87]

I'm going on my first cruise in a little a month. It's 7 days. Your videos have been so helpful. I only want to pack a carry-on and a bag. So this has definitely been helpful!

[@LifeWellCruised]

So glad this was helpful! Have an amazing cruise!!

[@willgaukler8979]

... bon voyage ... remember your likely never going to see these folks again go ahead and wear an outfit twice ...

[@donnamallory4526]

You can even wash some clothes in the sink and hang to dry .

[@brigittes5955]

Remember, if you mix-n-match you can wear things 2 or 3 times and it looks like a brand new outfit everytime. For example that cute dress you wore to dinner can be paired with a light jacket, hat & flat sandals to go sightseeing & shopping while in port.

[@markb8954]

@@willgaukler8979or three times 😃

[@brandimcdonald3562]

Love this video very helpful thanks so much!Will check out if I can order that suitcase here in Canada.

[@lindastover9541]

Great video ❤❤❤❤

[@nancynadler4918]

Downy wrinkle release works great. I always take it with me.

[@gillianessien7417]

Thanks for the tips and you look great without make up so no shame ♥️

[@walkintheoutdoors8343]

Thanks for the tips. We have an 11 night northbound and Canada leaf peeping cruise in a couple months. I’m already nervous about packing for cooler weather and needing bulky items.

[@sherrylee6007]

Love this video. Me and my BFF have done 3 cruises carry on only and our 4th is in Sept. My BFF has a knee replacement so the luggage help her with balance also with a backpack we use for extra items or excursions. I would love to see how you use the RC app once onboard to select shows or events Thanks again

[@ivelissecarrion157]

I do use packing cubes but not for clothes I used them for our over the counter meds sunscreen bug spray those things. I really like to use vacuum seal bags it helps make more space.

[@lauralinkoff3776]

I love that med holder. Got the same one for my vitamins, Tylenol and Advil. I always pack some flip,flops for room, pool and beach. Would love to challenge myself to try carryon instead of 24inch😊. I use back pack for personal bag as can hold a lot.

[@williamsmith2830]

thank you for your videos me and my wife are going on are first cruise next july and thankyou for your tips

[@kathleenpowers3371]

love all; your videos thank you Ilana

[@joannm.1756]

Easy if you’re short, but tall ppl don’t have the luxury since our clothes are so much bigger. And our shoes are much larger too. It’s only doable if you plan on doing laundry after day 3 or 4!

[@sunseekermama]

Great helpful video Ilana! If I do end up with some wrinkles on my clothes, I use the complimentary iron and ironing board in the laundry room on the ship. I also stuff undies and socks in my shoe's in my carry on.

[@LifeWellCruised]

It’s so great when ships have this! Thanks for mentioning