Although we are both experienced travelers we have never packed for a cruise. Some how we feel that this is different. For one thing it will be the first time for a very long time that we will only pack/un-pack once in more than two weeks!
We have learned over the years that it is almost impossible not to pack far too much! I have often heard the advice to pack early and just before you leave open up your bags and throw out have the stuff. Even after you have done this you will probably find you still have too much!
Airline baggage limits and exorbitant fees make the minimalist approach to pack even more important. We try to limit ourselves to one checkable bag, two “wheelie” carry on bags and a couple of messenger type bags for personal items, documents ,medications etc..
As I am the prime baggage porter, my carry on is a backpack with wheels.to keep at least one hand free for tickets,passports and stability. The other hand will drag MJ’s carry on.
We have a special complication too. I am dedicated photographer and as such I travel with rather more equipment than the casual vacation “snapper”. In fact my carry-on backpack is filled with camera gear, chargers, cables,and a netbook.
We have reached the age where some items become critical. Medications are one of them. Make yourself a detailed checklist to ensure that you have everything you need ready to pack. ONLY PACK THIS IN YOU CARRY ON BAGS.
Valuables? NEVER travel with your “good” jewelry and buy a couple of $10 watches; leave the Tag Heuer or Rolex at home!
I once had a checked bag of mine leave Los Angeles and travel via Paris, Djibuti,and Singapore to Sydney Australia when I was traveling to Sydney via Tahiti and New Caledonia. Same airline but opposite direction around the world. It took a week to catch up with me. The French airline UTA (now defunct) provided me with a tooth brush and tooth paste, a disposable razor and, for some reason a Japanese style bathrobe!
Critical stuff should always be with YOU.
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