The Cruise Packing List I Actually Use

The whole game is fitting varied outfits into one bag without it becoming a jumble. Compression packing cubes are how I do it, one cube per outfit type, so the suitcase stays organized all week.

Skip the iron, which ships ban in cabins anyway, and bring a small bottle of wrinkle release spray instead. A quick mist before dinner and the creases fall out.

These are the things people kick themselves for leaving at home: a lanyard for your room card, a non-surge power strip, reef-safe sunscreen, and a refillable water bottle.

None of them are exciting, all of them save you money or hassle once you are aboard and the gift shop has you cornered.

Pack a quick-dry towel for excursions where the ship towel cannot go, water shoes for rocky beaches, and a waterproof phone pouch so you can take pictures without holding your breath.

You do not need a separate outfit for every evening. One packable wrinkle-free dress, a pair of foldable flats for when your feet give up, and a little jewelry case covers every dressy night without filling your bag.

Round it out with motion sickness bands, a mini first-aid kit, and hand sanitizer. You probably will not need all of it, but onboard prices make these very much worth the suitcase space.