12 CRUISE LUGGAGE GUIDELINES, Rules & Tips You NEED to Know!

Cruise luggage rules can be confusing! In this video we go over the cruise luggage guidelines, rules and tips that you need to know. If you're going on a cruise, these cruise luggage tips will help you to be prepared and know what to expect.
If you're a first time cruiser, these cruise tips will be especially helpful. You'll know the cruise luggage limits for Carnival cruises, Royal Caribbean, Princess Cruises and more. We also go over what you can and what you can't bring on a cruise ship, and what happens if you do!
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ITEMS MENTIONED IN VIDEO
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Nautical carry on bag: amzn.to/2TH7L3T
Carry on bag w/ laptop section: amzn.to/3LCZBhC
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CRUISE ESSENTIALS
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ULTIMATE CRUISE PLANNER: lifewellcruise....
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*Business inquiries: please contact Ilana at [e-mail]
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 travelers, 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.
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Video Credits:
RCCL
Princess Cruises
Music Credit: Surf Time by Lux-InspiraMusic

[@LifeWellCruised]

Planning a cruise? Get The Ultimate Cruise Planner. It's a 47 page printable cruise travel planner with packing checklists, shore excursion planning forms and much more! ($10 off for a limited time). Here are the details: lifewellcruised.com/ultimate-cruise-planner

[@gretajohn674]

M ii

[@Jessibeanlv]

Okay, I did it! I finally bought it - I couldn’t resist after this great deal! We are going on our 2nd ever cruise 100 days from now and it’s all in Europe (NCL Prima 🤩) but that’s not all, I have to pack the entire house up to move across country before we leave for this cruise, as we move when we come back from the cruise 🤯 lol a lot of work and I think this planner will save me some time and headaches! Thank you Ilana 💜 🚢

[@estherfisher]

I bought your planner about a year ago. My emails have been lost. How can I get another copy.

[@LifeWellCruised]

@@estherfisher hi Esther, please send me an email at [e-mail] so I can help :)

[@margaritadee8425]

do they check for Bed Bugs?

[@jimpowers338]

Another tip for packing cubes, we've been using for years. Reuse the packaging linens come in. Sheet sets, pillowcases, blankets, tablecloths. They are all made of clear, heavy duty, zippered, plastic. Roll clothing to help with wrinkles, and pack more. We use one for bottoms, another for tops, etc. These can also be dropped in a drawer, or neatly stacked on closet shelving. We also keep like things together, such as laundry items, pool items, electronics. Super easy to see what's inside without having to open the "cube". Thanks for your tips and keep 'em coming. Best wishes for great success with your new full time gig!

[@LifeWellCruised]

Great ideas!

[@peggywoods4327]

I have been doing that for years! The original packing cubes 😉

[@karenjohnson6616]

I use those cloth or plastic bags for shoes and love packing cubes popped right into the drawers!

[@designdoctor247]

dollar store has small clear see through zipper bags that r a perfect size for 7 pair of undies n 7 pair of socks... those small items used to float around in dresser drawers and drive me crazy when i could not find them ...now w these little clear zipper bags aaaahhhh my mind is calm lol i also use 4 of them in my purse to contain items...i can SEE the items n they r contained so i only have to lift 4 things (little zipper bags) each time i am looking for something ...instead of digging and digging and looking n looking n still not finding my blistex or rolaids lol

[@therealtamiec]

Yes! I've done this!

[@tomwalker4679]

My wife came up with putting our carryon suitcase at the bottom of the closet and put dirty clothes in there as they accumulate. Makes a packed suitcase to put right in the washer when you get home👍😎

[@charlottegiannotti51]

I use brightly colored bandannas tied to my suitcases… I am always able to find them easily

[@kens805]

If you park at a commercial lot and take a shuttle to the cruise terminal please remember to also tip the driver who is loading and unloading your luggage from the shuttle bus. They REALLY work hard unloading luggage for 20 or so riders!

[@lashawnthompson9642]

The Shein bags work well for packing also

[@brooksmorelock5545]

Usually the life jackets are under the bed so what I usually do is I put the life jackets in the top of the closet and then put my luggage under the bed. This frees up space and makes me feel better that I can get to the life jackets for the mister drill and then if I need it later I know exactly where it is

[@littlemis519]

I am a newbie cruiser, I have watched a lot of your videos! Very informative

[@shellytrottier639]

My favorite thing to take now, is Shampoo and Conditioner bars, they don't count as liquids and they can go in a carry on.

[@charlayned]

I do have a caution for you and the viewers: We did our first cruise last year. I have a special water bottle with a flavor pack on it (Circul!) that I keep with me. I'm on medication that dries out my mouth and the doc has told me that I need liquid. I usually drink 4 or 5 --36oz bottles full a day to combat the dryness. I'm getting a note from him this next cruise (in May) to make this easier, however, that last cruise I got challenged. We were pre-boarding (I have MS and in a wheelchair) and the TSA guy said he was going to have to dump out my bottle before boarding. I need this water and I had about 1/3 of the bottle still with water so I started drinking quickly so I would have some hydration before the rest got dumped out. The guy laughed and said "Ok, don't worry about it, if you're willing to drink it, it's not explosive or caustic so go through. It was very nice of him. As I said, I'm going to get a doctor's note for this so maybe we won't have an issue again. I even sleep with this next to me so I can drink when I need to so it's vital it's available.

[@kpl-CA]

We always finish water well BEFORE Security, and buy more after. That's the scam at every airport. Even with a doctor's note, any "large" amounts of liquids (more than 3oz) will get you flagged & aggressively hand-searched and questioned, in public, by US Security. The Security staff are *extremely* adversarial and prejudiced toward disabled folks. They are selected to be the worst bullies and abusers and bigots they can find. Even if it's IV meds that are your liquids, they'll maliciously tamper with ALL OF IT. We've had injectables ripped into by Security staff, left leaking, useless. They couldn't care less. Security WILL absolutely rip open, damage, maul, break, and GSR swab *everything*, regardless if you are immunocompromised or items are marked "sterile". They will arbitrarily demand you "open up" a CPAP motor casing, when they aren't designed to be opened. They will often confiscate refrigerator gel-packs for temperature sensitive meds, and they *do not care* if they destroy thousands of dollars worth of meds by doing so. They do not care about *your* safety, or *your* medical needs. They arbitrarily invent new ways to harass & harm all the time. They think it's "fun". Security staff - ESPECIALLY US Security - detest disabled folks and will be rude, arrogant and assume you are stupid or a faker. They *will* make ableist, bigoted comments ("jokes") and will often deliberately pinch, bruise or trip disabled folks. Sometimes much worse. Never EVER agree to a "private" search, they will assault you, or worse, your child. The most you can do is *request* they change their filthy, disgusting gloves prior to mauling & contaminating sterile medical supplies - or you. Most will laugh, and REFUSE to do so, of course, and then roll their eyes & ridicule you. They will *absolutely* violate your dignity and your privacy by loudly questioning you about items. It does NOT matter if you pre-book through "TSA Cares" (what a name 🙄) or anything else. You *will* be poorly treated and everything will be contaminated. We travel extensively, and we know we must prepare for inevitable abuse by Security *every* time. Even with Nexus cards. Even as people with enhanced clearance. They were even abusive to our disabled CHILD on her "Wish" trip with "Make-A-Wish". She was visibly disabled & ill, and we were escorted by an airline guide, but Security were still abusive monsters, ripped into medical supplies, left massive bruises on her, and ruined much of her medical supplies. That tells you what kind of people the Security staff really are. Be prepared.

[@thomasirvin6711]

I have planned three cruises this year AND YOUR TIPS, RECOMMENDATIONS, AND PLANNING has been exponentially fortuitous. I will cruise more beautifully because of you (and your family). 03/14/23 3:00pm

[@jamesjoy8866]

My first cruise was delayed because a forklift loading pallets of luggage dropped a pallet between the ship and pier. The Captain announced a delay while divers recovered luggage from the bay.

[@debbiemosley5499]

😮

[@mercyrodriguez5780]

We are in Miami, so we have so many choices of Ports and Ships that we rarely catch a plane to go to any port. We usually pack with hangers, when we get to the cabin and our luggage is there, we are unpacked in 5 minutes. That is the advantage of living close to three main ports, drive and park. Thank you for your great videos.

[@LifeWellCruised]

This is really smart! I think I’d I cruised “a lot” living near a port especially, I would start to do this

[@aliciahebert2137]

I also bring velvet thin hangers too and always will

[@roberthalljr4120]

I love how both my wife and I independently found and followed you!

[@johnsandweg6260]

We purchased several of the items you discussed in this video and other videos for our most recent cruise. And without a doubt the most useful were the two magnetic hooks for the cabin walls and doors. The heavy duty hooks were the most useful and we found many unconventional used for them. Kept us very organized and gave us additional useful space that we would not otherwise have.

[@billieruthmcginnis5335]

we use the magnetic hooks to hang one of the cheap shoe organizers. We use it to unpack and arrange all our bathroom items, everyday items, shoes, etc. we just unpack our suitcases, fill up the organizer, and enjoy the freedom of not having to "search" for stuff or have stuff sitting everywhere.

[@ErikaEmody]

I take colorful scarves and tie them to the handles for visibility. Yay scarves on clearance or thrift stores! Re storing luggage - think Russian nesting dolls for placing your smaller bags Inside your large one

[@LifeWellCruised]

Smart!!

[@joannzeok7200]

One thing on our last cruise we went on, was I took a few minutes to pack a door decoration of some kind and blue painter’s tape to stick it up with. I am crafty so I made a scarecrow since it was fall. I got so many comments on it, not because it was cute, but because people looked for it so they knew they were in the right corridor. Our room was directly across from the elevator so they knew which way their room was. I have also seen store bought posters or signs used for the same purpose.

[@patti1044]

We pack in carry on - learned years ago when our luggage went a couple places before it joined us, we need much less than we used to pack. This allows us to board the ship with all our stuff and be unpacked by the time we have watched the muster drill on TV. Do use magnets for the wall, collapsing boxes to keep things tidy in the bathroom and on the desk. 58 days until we head to Amsterdam for our next adventure.

[@LifeWellCruised]

This is great and I like the collapsible boxes. Do you get these at the dollar store or Amazon?

[@patti1044]

@@LifeWellCruised Found them at IKEA - they fold flat with a zipper in the bottom. Just the right size for the bathroom shelves.

[@mistysuttle3748]

On Carnival, they charge $5 (at least) for a gallon of distilled water. They do allow you to carry one on. And the case of 12pk water is around $12. My last cruise in 2019 it was around $5.

[@nancykerstetter1952]

I usually tip 5 dollars per bag. I tend to overpack and use the largest suitcase I own. I also decorate my suitcase as well.

[@LifeWellCruised]

Thanks Nancy for sharing

[@riversong7818]

Same here! $5.00 per bag has always seemed reasonable to me!

[@patsigurdson2351]

I know that this video is a year old but I did enjoy it; when I pack clothing for both my husband and myself in each of our suitcases this was a tip that another passenger gave me on our first cruise. I am a list maker and I start a few weeks before we leave.

[@janetyorg5100]

For the first day carryon bag, we use a small roller bag suitcase. It is easier to pull around than having a heavy tote bag on your shoulder. We board in the afternoon and our first stop is our room where we drop off the roller bag. - Thanks for all the great tips!

[@Pheexperiment]

Your response is exactly what I was looking for. You know how we all watch videos and scroll through the comments to see if anyone is mentioning exactly what you are wondering. I have a rolling carry-on that looks like a small duffel bag but it has wheels and a handle extends and I was wondering if that would be okay to bring with my one large checked bag. I'm so glad to have run across your comment

[@vickiwilliams2704]

Thank you for your great tips.suggestions on What wear on an Italy cruise at the end of October

[@sandyfelix1342]

It’s very nice to give them 5.00 and up. It works great.

[@patrickwallace9726]

Regarding tipping………… on my first cruise in 1989 I was young and not very worldly. I did not tip the porter and even told him I wasn’t giving him any money. We got our luggage at midnight. Coincidence? I don’t think so. Tip your porter.

[@CruisingEngineer]

Great information on luggage and packing. On DCL (Disney) you can bring as much pop and water as you can fit in your carry-on (NOT checked luggage) but you have to schlep it around until staterooms open - usually about 1:30. I love packing cubes (for least wrinkling of tops, dresses, and pants) and compression cubes (t-shirts, underwear, swimsuits, socks, and shorts). Please emphasize having all your cruise documents in the personal bag that stays with you. Luggage drop (porters) is well before entering the terminal and processing. By the time you realize the paperwork is in the checked luggage, OH that is a problem!

[@LifeWellCruised]

You’re so right! I mention this in a few other videos, but it’s true it’s a huge problem so worth repeating. Thanks for sharing the info about DCL

[@rmaxedon2826]

Always tip $5 per bag. They rely on this money. They are paid very little. I have to use a wheelchair. I always tip them $5.

[@triciaw5802]

To avoid corkage fees at dinner, we pour a glass of wine prior to dinner and bring to dinner. (wine glasses come from stateroom attendant).

[@LifeWellCruised]

Great tip 👍

[@Philippa-]

I’ve done that too many times

[@edwardh8853]

I’ve been doing that for years also. On my last Celebrity cruise in early 2020 I was given 2 reds and 2 whites for the cabin to celebrate my birthday. Someone has to drink the 🍷 😁

[@tobiebrave]

You CAN pack for a full week including formal wear in a carry on!!!! Done it several times. The big thing to limit is shoes. One pair sandals, one pair sneakers, one pair flats, 1 pair heels. We always fly(live in Ohio). Use small toiletries It can be done and then you can carry off luggage & get off first & don’t have to hunt for your luggage in the terminal which I hate. Mix and match clothing and coordinate colors. Trust me. It can be done

[@AM-dr9qd]

You need to talk with my wife. 1 luggage for makeup, 1 for shoes, 1 for clothes. This is just for her 😱😱😭😭😭😭😭

[@tobiebrave]

@@AM-dr9qd be happy to! I also don’t take all my makeup now that you mention it.

[@patriotmama1749]

My 20-something daughter just reminded me she was in Europe, with only a backpack, for 2 months. She said if she could do that, I can pack with only a carryon. ;)

[@Subyspecialist]

Glad to hear that you can primary a carry on. The rules were a bit confusing as we just booked our first cruise. I am used to traveling for up to a month at a time with just a backpack, so I will stick to just the carry on.

[@tobiebrave]

@@Subyspecialist enjoy. I am a huge fan of cruising.

[@rreynolds226]

Thank you for the CPAP suggestion.

[@DancEncounters]

As a general rule I don’t use packing cubes. I can fit more by rolling. The exception is my sweaters. They don’t roll well, and a compression cube does reduce the space they take. I pack in one carryon and one tote, for any cruise over 5 days. For 5 days or less I just pack in my large tote.

[@slinkyscrap]

I bought packing cubes about 5 years ago for my husband and me and, boy, were they a miracle for packing! And to be able to take the cube directly from the suitcase to the drawers/closets was so nice.

[@LifeWellCruised]

Nice!!

[@247webgirl]

On my last cruise I was the only person in my group that brought packing cubes, and everyone else in my cabin was so impressed! Never cruising without them again! Also on my last cruise, one of my friend’s suitcases got flagged before boarding because security saw a bottle of perfume and thought it was a vape pen. Had no idea one would ever be mistaken for the other!

[@gimmieboy]

How do the cubes help? My clothes seem to fit in the suitcase okay. Does it make more room?

[@Karen822]

I bought packing cubes this year for the first time. I used one for an overnight trip and it was a game changer! I am usually an over-packer and was able to fit everything in 1 tote bag and large hand bag. I'm a believer!

[@bethdavis6863]

They also make unpacking a breeze!

[@roseq536]

I’m going on my first cruise soon and can’t wait! I’m usually anxious about over packing and then STILL forgetting stuff. This is so informative. Thanks 😅

[@Edera7795]

Put a copy of your luggage tags inside each suitcase. I tips between $3-5 bag depending on how much I might have overpacked.

[@pamelastevenschuler9575]

One thing that I do to make my bag stand out is this. I crochet a piece long enough to tie around the handle, usually in a bright color. It really helps and no one handling bags at the airport or cruise terminal has issues with it. In fact they just wondered where I came up with the idea.

[@renabee8246]

Cool idea!

[@queenscatsandcastles]

Love to see a video about how many changes of clothes to bring on a cruise? What onboard experiences do you prefer? Excursion tips? Love all your videos.

[@LifeWellCruised]

Fun! Sure I’ll add those things in future videos

[@sylviabuffington4214]

My first cruise is January 2023 to celebrate my mother 80 birthday ❤️❤️❤️ her first as well and we can't wait I watch your videos everyday

[@LifeWellCruised]

How nice!! What a wonderful way to celebrate 🎉

[@That_Service_Dog_Show]

Always check your bags before packing, too. You may never know what you might find. :P My husband's brother-in-law was detained when we got to the port after we drove there and we all were waiting and waiting for him to reach us because we as a family of nine going on a cruise were waiting for him before checking in. Turned out, he used his bag that he takes with him when hunting as one of his pieces of luggage where ONE bullet had somehow escaped his gear and was left inside the duffel bag when he put his stuff in for the cruise. They had him detained for an hour before it was determined that it had just been a harmless mistake. For the entire cruise we referred to him as Barney (from the Andy Griffith show) and asked him about his bullet. ;p

[@susanlacey6846]

Our 80 year old uncle did that too!! We teased him the whole trip! 🤣

[@bethdavis6863]

If it was in a backpack or bag he carried into another country, it would have gotten him arrested!

[@ellenhofer3343]

My dad had given my husband a very small (1½") Swiss Army knife that he kept in his back pack fir many years. It made its way to the bottom and suck in a seam. We flew and cruised many times and had forgotten it was there. Made it through TSA with no detection. But, then one time, a TSA found it, and stood there holding it up high with 2 fingers like it had cooties. We explained the situation and that we had forgotten it was there. We asked what we could do and he smugly said we could go and mail it home and then laughed at us in front of everyone. Then he dropped it into a 55 gallon drum that was nearly full, still laughing.

[@bethanywise7686]

Will you do an actual packing video using the cubes and how you arrange it in your suitcase? That would be helpful.

[@LifeWellCruised]

I definitely could! Let me try and be organized in advance for my next cruise and try and film it :)

[@p.g.4271]

I use large storage plastic bags to pack and squeeze out the air by rolling... acts like a space bag without the vacuum cleaner suction... makes it so much more compact... makes extra room to pack items I purchase on the cruise or in the ports...

[@ShawnNance]

hang your clothes in the bathroom and turn on all the hot water and it steams the wrinkles in your clothes without an iron

[@marieschafle1700]

Isn’t water at a premium on ships?

[@ellenhofer3343]

What if everyone does it at the same time.😂

[@gimmieboy]

To avoid corkage fees I open my bottle in my room and pour the glass (very full) and carry it to the dining room.

[@lindasnyder1729]

I think it's important to tell women what kind of purses to bring: (1) a light weight cross body one for walking around ship to carry tissues, mirror, lipstick, schedule of events, map of ship & sunscreen. (2) Tote for pool or beach with hat, towel, water shoes, etc. (3) Under clothing passport holder for money & credit card while in ports. There are pick pockets around. (4) Small clutch for dinner. (5) Extra cheap light weight totes to carry extra stuff when getting off ship in case you bought too much while in ports.

[@Sandy-730]

Just ordered the grey carry-on, luggage tag holder & packing cubes. Thanks for taking the time to compile all of this helpful information. I feel like i'm stalking all of your vids lol : )

[@LifeWellCruised]

Haha stalk away!! I’m so glad you like those items. That grey carry on bag is fabulous

[@lorenadugan6355]

We have used your ultimate cruise planner for five cruises since the restart. We have also created our own personal electronics page. I keep meaning to send that to you. But we enjoy that it has warm weather packing list and a cold for the packing list. It helped us traveling in the Caribbean and Alex. Thank you for taking the time.

[@bmartino9]

Going on my first cruise in August and I’m so excited and nervous. Lol But your videos are great! So informative that you’ve put me at ease. I will be sharing all your tips with my husband and I’ll probably watch them again as we get closer to our sail date. Thank you 😊

[@andreagriffiths3512]

I got a really lovely tote bag from Mia Tui travel bag. I love it so much! It keeps everything organised and being able to slip over the suitcase handle is a major blessing! So much easier than a handbag and backpack. I can’t wait for my cruises.

[@LifeWellCruised]

I’ve heard these are great! I’m not sure if I’ve seen them sold where I live

[@andreagriffiths3512]

@@LifeWellCruised I saw Emma (Emma Cruises) give a review on the packing cubes and bought them, then went back and got the bag. Mia Tui is in England but they do shipping to most countries including USA and Canada. I got the Jennie in Graphite and it’s just perfect!

[@Greengoat58]

Great information, we tip our porter's 5 dollars per bag. We also use a porter's when we debark the ship. They get you passed all the lines.

[@LifeWellCruised]

Thanks for sharing 👏

[@user-fb7wq2zy6k]

When I travel outside North America, I bring an adapter to convert between different voltages and outlet configurations. Useful when staying in a local hotel. But the cruise ships I've been on (all Holland America Line) have standard 120 V outlets in the cabins. I think they may have a couple of other kinds of outlets, but if you need / want something other than 120 V North American outlets, check with the cruise line.

[@niccitroy]

Thank you Ilana for mentioning the C-Pap. My husband uses one he got from the VA. I immediately called RC and Ellie was so great. She made a note on our account of his C-Pap and mentioned they will deliver a gallon of distilled water AND and extension cord to use. I am so glad you mentioned it. I thoroughly enjoy your videos and I've ordered a few things you suggested from Amazon. Thank you again.

[@lizhendershott2104]

FYI for future cruises… All cruise lines do it. We’ve been on nearly all the big lines and hubby also uses one. :)

[@deborahmeadows1946]

Did you have to carry the cpap in carryon?

[@kpl-CA]

CPAP/BiPAPs and all medical equipment (and medications) are a carry-on item for both planes and ships. Check the security agency websites for procedures. If you fly with medical equipment be prepared for a long inspection with airport security, they will usually insist on swabbing medical equipment. Be sure to request agents CHANGE THEIR FILTHY GLOVES before handling medical items, removing them from clear plastic bags. Contamination of medical items can be lethal. Holland America *charges* for a gallon of distilled water for medical use. Very few cruise lines will provide it for free (Disney does). That's only part of the "disability tax". Do *NOT* assume the cruise lines will provide an extension cord, HAL certainly did not provide one. We always carry a six foot, *medical grade*, single plug extension cord with the CPAP. It always has passed inspection and is considered necessary. Be *sure* to *check plug locations in cabins* LONG before booking/purchasing a cruise. Many cabins (not just older ships) are an absolute *nightmare*, with only ONE power source total, at the desk, NOT bedside. Many "modern" lines ONLY offer USB power, which *will not power a CPAP or any medical equipment*. If the only power outlet is at the desk, that means to run a *necessary* CPAP, for use all night, not only are extension cords strung *BY CREW* across your cabin (either on the floor/tripping hazard, or ridiculously strung from the roof with magnets), but you cannot charge other devices overnight. There's only room for a CPAP. And *certainly* no *other* devices, like a bed-shaker/strobe alarm for HOH persons. Those cruise lines FORCE you to choose only one medical need. This is, of course, discrimination against folks who NEED medical equipment, but cruise lines (and many privileged, oblivious passengers) don't *care* or *notice* discrimination. They think poorly equipped, adversarial, inaccessible ships are *just dandy*. Thinking USB plugs at bedside are "sufficient" because it's *ASSUMED* passengers only need power for a phone... That choice is CHEAP, unprofessional, ableist, and discriminatory. Cruise lines that deliberately, maliciously cut corners by discriminating should not be rewarded with any business.

[@revger]

I travel with a European adapter on my cruises. Most cabins have both North American and European outlets and having the adapter allows me to have an extra North American outlet.

[@LifeWellCruised]

Super!!

[@terringuyen5470]

Great idea!👏

[@RollinInReno]

My first cruise is in June this year and we are flying to the port the day before. These videos help guide me to be efficient. Im packing for the cruise the same as flying so no checked bags.

[@thomasirvin6711]

You have saved me a lot of money from your store. I have bought many of the things that you have recommended. THANK YOU SO MUCH. 03/14/23@3:10pm.

[@sgarcia2089]

This is a tip to help identify our luggage easily, during air and cruising. We used bright fabric paints and put our hand prints and foot prints all over our luggage. We get comments what a great idea!

[@mitchellbelinda50]

Question: Do you ever decorate cabin door? Now Carnival requiring “fire resistant “ decorations. Can you do a video for fire resistant cabin door decorations? Thanks

[@barbaraparkes8279]

Lots of great information I'm driving my husband mad all talk about is our cruise and what I hear on your videos and I only discovered you a couple of nights ago I'm not away for another year

[@sweetypatnett6123]

I love the packing cubes idea! That's something I would invest in for my cruise. Thanks for sharing this video!

[@dianneconner9151]

I absolutely love my packing cubes. I have been using them for years. They are great for kids as well.

[@LifeWellCruised]

Just awesome! I wish I would have started earlier

[@gratefulforabundance9043]

I have eight kids and sometimes I ‘d agree with you that “ Packing cubes are great for kids “. Lol !! Could I fit all 8 in one cube d’you think ? 😂

[@gbbologna5357]

I have always locked my suitcase with the tsa approved locks and never had a problem.

[@purplequeen8318]

I never knew about "not locking the luggage" and I am going to have those packing cubes on my next cruise. Thanks for sharing that information.

[@brendaw.7597]

Thanks so much for the great tips and information, and even more for the Ultimate Cruise Planner. It is extremely kind of you to share your planner as it will help many of us tremendously. Thanks again!

[@LifeWellCruised]

Thanks Brenda! I’m so glad the tips and the Ultimate Cruise Planner have been helpful! Thanks for your purchase and feedback 😊

[@janismccabe3622]

I would like to see how you pack the packing cubes.

[@LifeWellCruised]

Awesome! I will put this on my video list to do before we cruise later this month

[@TL-care11]

We tip the porter $20 to ensure no issue with our luggage. Between my husband and I - we haveb2 regular suitcases and one carryon. We keep meds and document with us.

[@christinachase5419]

We are leaving for Alaska on the Discovery Princess this week. I've been addicted to ALL of your videos for the past few months; I'm so grateful for all of your encouragement and advice! Blessings to you and your family.❤️

[@caroleanne8529]

We took an Alaska cruise in June, 2019. We took coats, because it can be pretty chilly. Since the coats can take up so much room, we used puffy coats that flatten easily and put them in 2 gal zip bags that we sat on prior to zipping all the way. That flattened them out enough that they were easily packable. The bags do leak, so put them in your. bag last, just before zipping it up. Or, you can just wear it when getting on the plane and take it off to use as a pillow. Enjoy!

[@phantinhdi2916]

1) do they allow selfie-stick? 2)others than alcohol and such hat cruise don’t allow, is there any gift or souvenirs that they don’t allow to bring back (similar to tsa rule about food, etc)

[@cathycooper1426]

I got the nautical carry on on your recommendation and used it on our cruise from Southampton to Reykjavik in August and it worked well on Air Canada, Iceland Air and American airlines. It fit under the seat ahead of me.

[@kittyku6619]

Packing cubes are for the win

[@Cheryl-yr3sl]

First cruise in 2 weeks! Your site has been a wonderful asset in our plans. Thank you!

[@susankeyssecker8195]

Preparing for my first (five day) cruise in about two months, and have to say I've almost finished packing, having heeded most of your hacks and tips and bought or borrowed most of the items you suggest. Your videos are helpful, life-saving and I am actually beginning to look forward to it. 😎😒

[@Lowkeyy222]

Same here! Going in March. Super excited 😊

[@Brittanggg]

Same also going in March 👀 and these videos have been so helpful!

[@Lowkeyy222]

@@Brittanggg which cruise are you going on!!

[@Brittanggg]

@@Lowkeyy222 MSC divina early March. What about you?

[@Lowkeyy222]

@@Brittanggg carnival miracle, early March also :)

[@tararoberts2695]

This is my first cruise, but we really want to keep our luggage. We will have a late boarding

[@mitchd1123]

It should be fine but be prepared to sit at a bar for a while as everyone on the cruise is at the central elevators. If you are feeling strong, there are stairs next to the elevator that few people use.

[@cathyletson3220]

We are going on our first cruise in October. Thank you so much for all your videos and tips. I printed out your cruise planner.

[@LifeWellCruised]

Yay!! So glad the tips and cruise planner have been helpful for your first cruise. Thanks for your purchase 😊

[@rnjscheller522]

It's our first cruise and your suggestions really helped

[@sandrapicado5758]

Hi Ilana, I found these travel pouches For toiletries. They are flat and take up less room in my liquids bag. I just thought I’d share that. I love your blog. Thank you, Sandy.

[@jang4050]

Thank you about the tip on not locking the luggage bags. I always locked them without any problems but will leave the bags unlocked for my next cruise.

[@mikee3997]

Great advice been about 10 yrs since last cruise so helps to keep up to date with things thank you

[@phyllisbrown1274]

You are amazing I used to be a travel agent, so I do appreciate everything you teach and share

[@BrendaRoberts1]

Great tips, this will be my second cruise. Always good to hear other peoples tips. Thank you!

[@francinejaninesarmiento1797]

Wow, this is very helpful. Looking into joining a cruise soon and so grateful to have watched this one. I always think that travels are made easier when you have the best travel gears and essentials too. The bento bag from Nomad Lane is my best carry-on bag for dream vacation destination like Scotland. Though I'd share it to you guys too!

[@debratakagawa4764]

Thank you for all your tips and suggestions. I watched and used many ideas from many of your videos prior to my Panama cruise last month. It was so helpful. Even my sister liked some of the ideas. Just next time I may try to pack a bit lighter. Dragging that kitchen sink around in my stuff was heavy.

[@LifeWellCruised]

So glad the tips are helpful! Lol, yes we need to leave the kitchen sink at home 😂

[@bethdavis6863]

I discovered after my first cruise that I really over-packed. I do better on each subsequent cruise.

[@Aileen393]

Really informative! Greatly appreciate your time and effort for making this video. I was wondering whether it’s acceptable to bring the fast charge with the Apple cable for the iPhone

[@billf9847]

Celebrity cruises as of this moment 2024 March 18. There is no limit, but they ask for you to be respectful and you’re bringing such amount of luggage. How much luggage can a guest bring onboard? There is no limit or restrcition, however we recommend each guest carry a reasonable amount of personal property and limit the number of pieces they bring.

[@beachymamaadventures]

We typically tip $2/bag and we carry our luggage off so don’t have to sift through the sea of luggage 😆.

[@LifeWellCruised]

Thanks for sharing 😊

[@aidagonzalez1886]

We tip about $2-3 a bag depending on size of luggage.

[@TimFatchen]

We always bring powerplug converters. Laptop, camera & something else all have AU plugs. SO, we carry a couple US to AU and EU to AU adapters and use all the available ship power points! Avoids power strips which RCI at least didn't accept on our first cruise with them (Hawaii to Brisbane). CMV didn't mind power strips but they were wiped out in the COVID shutdowns, pity.

[@jonathanpace5312]

Prior to the pandemic I would travel for work every single week. What I did with my luggage was two things. One the luggage had to not be black but instead light blue. Also I tied pink shoelaces on both handles to make it stand out. We would always do the same thing for the cruises we took. Have not been cruising since 2019 but we booked for Royal Caribbean cruises with the first one starting this coming July then October then January then the following July. Very excited to be sailing again! Keep up the good work with your videos. Thank you.

[@marissak3100]

Hi, I'm so excited for you and all the cruises 🛳 I personally enjoyed Royal Caribbean & the shows were amazing. I'm going in Oct too & cant wait. If you have questions about Royal I have a few tips. Enjoy your trips!

[@jonathanpace5312]

@@marissak3100 if I can think of anything I'll let you know. We are Platinum status with them and will be Emerald status after this coming Cruise. Have also cruised to three towns with Carnival before. I guess we are semi-experts at this point in life.

[@sherihousmangatlin3524]

@Marissa K, I’m still new to cruising. It’s been over 10 years for us. We are cruising Royal Caribbean in August to Alaska. These so much I don’t remember about packing I’m hoping this ultimate planner is helpful. Any tips you can share will be appreciated.

[@OregonFishingGuy]

My wife and I are taking an Alaskan cruise next summer with Norwegian. I have been watching your videos and I have learned so much. Things that I would not have thought of. Thank you so much!

[@davidh8924]

My wife and I will see you there if you are on the Encore on May 14th, 2023!

[@OregonFishingGuy]

@@davidh8924 we are on the Sun in late August. I hope you have an awesome cruise!

[@maybaby1969]

One thing you can use for a iron is a jumbo curling iron, the largest you can get that has a high setting.

[@taraohland6071]

NCL will not allow you to bring water or soda onboard anymore. It is my understanding that if you bring wine or champagne they will charge you a $15 corkage fee for 750ml bottle at time of check in, even if you are consuming it in your cabin

[@mistysuttle3748]

On our first cruise, I didn't think of storing the suitcases under the bed. We had 2 large and I medium suitcase. Stored the medium in the large and put them in the closet with the life jackets.

[@gmoops8986]

Very nice hints. Those packing cubes work for me. I would add to those over packers, it's OK to wear the same item again, and again For most cruisers, nobody gives a $h1t. leave that sea chest home.

[@LifeWellCruised]

You’re right

[@bethdavis6863]

Not to mention there is a laundry facility on each floor, and a bathroom sink and a little detergent works too!

[@supergran62]

First time cruiser heading off with 3 of my sisters and we will all have CPAPs with us. (Yes, it’s genetic). Thanks for the tips there. Loved the tips.

[@lexieshores3889]

That was a very interesting comment about not locking your bags that are given for scanning and then brought to your room. I am basically a non-trusting person and have always locked my bags just as I have when checking luggage at the airport. I can't think of anything I would put in my bag that would not be allowed. I never thought about it but I guess I would assume the checkers/scanners haves TSA lock keys so they can open the luggage. But then why would they have keys, those for TSA inspectors.

[@kimnovak8985]

Living in Australia ( yay !!! Our first cruise happened the other day it was just a few days but who cares cruising back baby!!!) I suggest you really look at the airline you are flying in with as to carry on restrictions. QANTAS for eg is incredibly strict your bag has to be less than 10kg (22lb)and no more than 53cm long (20inches) outside of those detentions you have to check it.Don’t expect to get away even with a few extra pounds or inches it will be checked. Funny story - my mother was cruising with me and insisted on taking a travel iron. I told her you can’t she was even shown the list of non approved appliances - travel irons weren’t on it so she took one. Hours later everyone except my mother has their luggage. We find a note .” Please come down to security there is something in your bag we wish to discuss with you. “ She wasn’t the only one the place was crowded when we got there. Everyone’s having a chat as they wait to speak with security swapping what do you think you did stories( We ‘re Aussies get a bunch of us in a room we start chatting with each other like long lost friends ) Anyway it’s my mothers turn. “ Madam it is forbidden to bring travel irons on board the ship. We are confiscating this appliance until the end of the cruise and you can pick it up when you get off of the ship“ My mother fairly chastened slinks back to the room pulling her luggage behind her. Me laughing all the way saying I told you so.

[@catherinepacheco310]

tip for cruises take a nylon sponge for showering will save cruise lines on washcloths and it's nice to lather like a spa

[@thomasirvin6711]

One clothing tip that I have is to bring as many “poly-blend” clothings as possible. They clean and dry easily.

[@sallyniemzyk6964]

It has been some years since we have gone on a cruise, but am very interested in doing so in the near future. I would love to watch another video on better packing ideas, and how to make it easier. Especially on those formal nights! I remember that being a challenge. Thank you much for all your information. Could have used this years ago!

[@LifeWellCruised]

Thanks Sally! Great idea

[@jacquelyns9709]

Sally N Depending on your cruise line, you may not need really formal outfits unless you want to wear them. In other words, Tuxes and ballgowns are optional. (Except for Cunard. They still require formal wear.) However if you do want to dress up, you could let the ship's laundry press them for you at an extra charge. Some ships have laundry rooms with irons you can use. Sometimes just hanging them in the bathroom while taking a steamy shower will work. Simple outfits needing little care might work best. Bring fancy jewelry, purses, watches, shoes to accessorize and draw attention.

[@sallyniemzyk6964]

@@jacquelyns9709 Thank you so for your response...I actually love formal nights. Unfortunately, they do take up a great deal of space when packing.

[@daxshadesai3155]

@@sallyniemzyk6964 is

[@lisaryderwellness]

Think about how much you would want to be paid if you were lugging bags up and down long hallways and tip accordingly!! Porter tips for sure!!

[@lorenadugan6355]

We tip $5 per bag or a $20. It’s just two of us. These folks make almost nothing and work very hard lifting your luggage. They didn’t work for a long time. Just think how you would feel if it were your relative. We also tip extra on the ship to our favs.

[@boatlover1875]

I do bring a power outlet adapter in case I'm short on plugs in the cabin. Be careful, you can't just plug anything into them though as the voltage is higher. Computers, phone chargers and things like that are generally ok, the adapter should say something like 110-220v. Things with motors like fans as well as hair dryers are not good in those plugs.

[@AgelessLady]

If you have to take meds pack in your carry on, not in luggage that a porter has to take on board. If luggage should go missing you don’t want to be without it. Valuables should be with you as well: phone, camera, jewelry, etc.

[@patriciamott3243]

I always use colored pipe cleaners on our luggage. Because we usually cruise around holidays, I use the colors for that special day. Red, green, gold or silver for Christmas. Ted, white and blue for the 4th of July, etc. I l even use bows and ribbon to make the luggage stand out, and the same with our door. Makes it easy to find your cabin, especially if you get really tired from a long day. Same decorations for our door. Makes it

[@happycook6737]

I just tie on a colored plastic grocery store shopping bag on the handle because it adds very little weight.

[@bethdavis6863]

I use a colorful suitcase strap that buckles around luggage.