Cruises feel unfamiliar, so people pack defensively. Extra backups. Just-in-case items. Things that feel responsible to bring. The problem is that cruise ships already provide a lot of what people worry about and the stuff that gets overpacked is often the stuff that never leaves the suitcase. Here are some of the most common items people don’t need to bring and what to do instead.

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Towels: Cruise ships provide towels for both your cabin and port days. You’ll either pick them up before leaving the ship or find them waiting for you in your cabin. Better option: Leave bulky towels at home and bring a lightweight tote if you need something to carry them in port.

Full-Size Toiletries: Cabins usually include soap and shampoo, and ships have onboard shops for anything you forget. Packing full-size bottles just adds weight and eats up space. Better option: Travel-size versions or refillable containers to bring your own products.

Hair Dryers: Most cruise cabins already have one. They’re not salon-quality, but they get the job done. Better option: Skip it unless you need a very specific tool.

Too Many Shoes: Cruise days tend to repeat the same patterns: walking shoes for ports, something casual for evenings, maybe one dressier pair. Extra shoes almost never get worn. Better option: One comfortable walking pair + one casual/evening pair.

“Just in Case” Fancy Outfits: Many people pack dressy clothes for events that never happen. Formal nights are optional, and most evenings are more relaxed than expected. Better option: One versatile outfit you actually feel comfortable wearing.

Large Laundry Supplies: Cruise cabins don’t have a lot of storage space, and big detergent bottles are awkward to deal with. Better option: A few detergent sheets or small packets if you plan to do laundry.

Excess First-Aid Items: Ships have basic medications available, and there’s a medical center onboard if needed. Better option: Bring your essentials, but don’t pack an entire pharmacy.

Cruise packing gets easier once you realize you’re not traveling to the middle of nowhere. You’re staying in a floating hotel with services, shops, and staff who’ve seen every forgotten item imaginable. Packing lighter means: easier embarkation less cabin clutter faster unpacking at home and fewer things sitting untouched in your suitcase for seven days.

I hope some of this information has been helpful for when you are planning for your next getaway.

Tara

If your January has been anything like mine, its been pretty busy. Later this week I'll be sending out a recap for the month just incase you missed any issues.

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