If you’ve ever overpacked for vacation, you’re not alone. I used to order half of Amazon and tell myself I’d wear every single thing on the trip. Most of it stayed in the suitcase. Now, after plenty of trial and error, I’ve learned what actually works and what just adds stress and weight to the luggage.

Whether you’re a minimalist or an “I need options” packer, here’s what’s made packing for cruises so much easier and more enjoyable.

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1. Stop buying new outfits just for the trip

It’s tempting. I get it. You start picturing yourself on the ship, dressed perfectly for every night. But here’s what I realized:
Nobody on your vacation knows what you’ve already worn.

There’s zero pressure to reinvent yourself for a trip. I used to buy new outfits that looked cute online but didn’t feel quite right once I got there. Now, I only bring clothes I already know I love, pieces I’ve actually worn and felt good in.

If I want a little variety, I change things up with jewelry, layers, or a lightweight wrap instead of completely new outfits.

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2. Pick a color theme (it changes everything)

This is my favorite trick. I pick one base color- usually black or navy- and make sure everything else I pack can mix and match with it. That means fewer shoes, fewer decisions, and a suitcase that actually closes.

Here’s how that looks for me:

• Base: Black or navy shorts, skirts, and pants
• Accent colors: White, tan, coral, or turquoise
• Shoes: Sandals that work for the pool and dinner, plus sneakers for walking
• Accessories: Jewelry and a small crossbody that go with everything

Heels? I don’t even bother. I’m never happy wearing them on vacation.

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3. Do a “tear-down pass”

Once I’ve packed everything, I unpack it all again.
Yes, everything.

Then I take a second look at what’s inside and ask, “Do I really need this?”
Half of it comes back out. This one step has completely changed how I pack. It forces me to be honest about what I’ll actually wear.

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4. Share the load when you travel as a family

I’m the one who packs the family essentials— the passports, pill organizer, towel bands, and hand soap— the things everyone forgets until they need them. Everyone else handles their own clothes. That system works beautifully for us and saves a lot of last-minute panic.

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5. Pack what earns its spot

The best thing you can do before any cruise is focus on what earns its place in your suitcase. If you love it, if it fits, and if it makes you feel good, bring it. If it’s a “maybe,” leave it behind. You’ll feel lighter, freer, and far less stressed when it’s time to unpack in your stateroom.

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🧳 Want to See What Actually Makes the Cut?

You can find my Cruise Essentials List on Amazon: everything that earns a permanent spot in my suitcase, from organizers to travel-size must-haves. These are the things I’ve tested across multiple cruises, not just the trendy “influencer” items.

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FAQs

Q: How many outfits should I pack for a 7-day cruise?
Most people bring too many. I usually pack a solid swimsuit coverup that doubles as a dress, five “outfits” that mix and match, and two cuter dinner looks.

Q: How do you plan for formal night?
I bring a dress I already own and like, usually something that packs light and doesn’t wrinkle easily. A pair of statement earrings and sandals dress it up enough.

Q: What about laundry on the ship?
Royal Caribbean doesn’t have self-service laundry, but you can pay for wash-and-fold service. I prefer to hand wash a few items in the sink and hang them on the retractable clothesline in the bathroom.

Q: What’s your rule for shoes?
Three pairs max: sandals, sneakers, and one pair that can go dressy. Shoes take up the most room. This one change will save your suitcase.

Q: Any carry-on tips for embarkation day?
Yes, pack a small bag with anything you’ll need before your luggage arrives: swimsuit, sunscreen, charger, meds, and your Set Sail documents.