Packing Light: Carry-On for a 7+ Day Cruise

Could you do it? Packing for a week long (or more) cruise in only a carry-on suitcase might seem impossible, but I’m here to remind you it is not! I recently got back from an 8 day cruise (with 3 days spent in Miami) with only my backpack and carry-on rolling suitcase and people were amazed that I fit everything in. Some even called it my super power (which made my day, thank you). Because it’s summertime and clothing is lighter and smaller, it was easier than packing carry-on only for our British Isles cruise last year and our Mediterranean cruise the year before that…but that’s what I do!

[Related: Carnival Horizon: So What’s New?]

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Here’s what I packed in my rolling suitcase for this specific trip, and then I’ll explain my packing methodology:

• Cruise items (snorkel mask, etc)
• Toiletry bag
• Running shoes
• Heels
• Flats
• Water shoes/flip flops
• 2 formal dresses
• 2 nice maxi dresses
• 3 casual maxi dresses
• Short sun dress
• 2 shorts
• 4 shirts
• Swimsuit cover-up
• 3 swimsuits
• Extra bra
• 2 sets workout clothes and accessories
• 10 underwear

[Related: Carry-On Suitcase Packing List (Packing Checklist for the Overhead Bin)]

My backpack contained electronics, delicate items, some bulky items, and purse-type items. Those items were:

• Travel and cruise documents
• iPad, laptop, over-the-earphones, and all chargers
• Jean jacket
• Straw fedora hat
• Jewelry
• Make-up and other items always in my purse
• Snacks and vitamins
• A sewing project (not kidding!)

[Related: Carry-On Bag Packing List (Packing Checklist for Under the Seat)]

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So that was the what…here’s the how. I packed my cruise items (snorkel, etc.) first, toiletry bag and shoes second, formal dresses and swimsuits next, workout clothes next, and THEN played suitcase Tetris with maxi dresses, shorts, tops, sun dresses, more tops, and underwear until I couldn’t fit any more without extending the zipper extension (which I usually don’t use). It might seem weird to pack clothes last, but that’s what I always do. I limited shoes to 2 flats and 1 pair of heels, and if something didn’t match those shoes, it didn’t get packed. If you think “shoes first, clothes after” packing becomes VERY simple.

[Related: Tips for Nervous Flyers]

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I wore my bulkiest dress on the flight to Miami and wore my hat through the airports. On the day we boarded the cruise, I wore workout clothes, running shoes, and my hat. We bought Tide Pods in Miami and did a round of laundry halfway through the trip. Dresses were worn more than once, tops and shorts were worn more than once, and some tops and dresses weren’t worn at all…and that’s kind of what we do at home, isn’t it?

[Related: My Cruise Kit: The Practical & the Ridiculous]

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I dressed up, I dressed down, and I shopped. Nothing was sacrificed (except my diet, to be honest). Below are some of my favorite cruise items and travel gear including my workhorse of a suitcase, cheap and versatile earrings to dress up or down several outfits, and packing checklists in case you’re feeling inspired. Please let me know in the comments below if you have any questions! I want everyone to pack smart and have a great time on their trips short and long!

[Related: How I Maximize Relaxation & Fun on Cruise Sea Days]

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Favorite Cruise/Travel Gear and Accessories:

Greatever Snorkel Mask Foldable Full Face Snorkeling Mask with Detachable Camera Mount

Cruise Tags Luggage Etag Holders Zip Seal & Steel Loops Thick PVC 4 Pack – Clear

Samsonite Hardside 20″ Carry-On Spinner, Caribbean Blue

Vera Bradley Iconic Campus Backpack, Microfiber, Charcoal

Green Palm Leaf Earrings Resin Mottled Marbled (Green)

NLCAC Women’s Beaded tassel earrings Long Fringe Drop Earrings Dangle (6 Colors)

Packing Lists and Cruise Tips:

Cruise Packing Lists: Backpack & Rolling Suitcase Packing Checklists

Carry-On Bag Packing List (Packing Checklist for Under the Seat)

Carry-On Suitcase Packing List (Packing Checklist for the Overhead Bin)

Packing Light: My Toiletry Kit

My Cruise Kit: The Practical & the Ridiculous

First 24 Hours on a Cruise Ship: Do’s and Don’ts

Cruise Tips: Planning and Packing

How I Maximize Relaxation & Fun on Cruise Sea Days

A Cruise Must: Chef’s Table on Carnival Cruises

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