Packing for a Luxury Cruise – A Carry-On Strategy

Packing for a luxury cruise always throws my normal packing strategies off. Why? Because dinner tends to be a dressier affair and on smaller ships, I get self-conscious repeating too many outfits when you see the same smaller group of people 24/7. But one of my biggest challenges is not overpacking, especially because I prefer to travel with as little luggage as possible.

My Strategy Packing for a Luxury Cruise

I usually start off a week or two before a longer trip by outlining my days and evenings.  I record the activities of each day (travel, touring, day and evening plans) to figure out what kinds of outfits I need for each day.

There are several factors to consider:

• What my daily activities will entail (including evening plans)
• What the anticipated weather might be
• If there are any special regional considerations (a need to cover my arms or legs, for example)
• Where I might see the same people through the trip
• Whether there is an opportunity to do laundry mid-trip
• What items can be worn again (such as a dress worn for 2-3 hours one night)

Once I’ve outlined the basic requirements, I then work through a list of possible items from my closet to take.  If I’m at home, I will pull them all out and start to narrow the items down.  More often I am working on the plane from memory so I write out a list. I then work through my list, checking off outfits by day.  I need to be sure that my list is not too long or incomplete based on my needs.

How My Wardrobe Strategy Affects My Packing for a Luxury Cruise

I use a “capsule wardrobe” strategy for most of my closet.  This entails maintaining basics in core neutral colors such as black, grey, navy, or beige.  I then mix in two to three colors seasonally as accents.

For example, for a cooler weather cruise, I’ll coordinate the basics for a trip around black and charcoal grey pieces. I’ll toss in color via cardigans, tops, and accessories. I’ll also add my standard “neutral” pieces such as a great pair of jeans and a white buttondown shirt. This will allow me to mix and match pieces to create new outfits while re-wearing some items. I also can pack neutral shoes that will go with many outfits. For example, I might throw in red pieces, both colors that mix well with my neutrals.

I will then test each piece to ensure that it can be truly worn multiple ways. I want to ideally be able to wear each piece 3 different ways so that I can mix and match. Sometimes accessories like a great scarf or wrap can also help extend my outfit options. If I can’t reasonably wear an item multiple times or in different ways, I reconsider whether it belongs in my suitcase.  Even when packing for a luxury cruise, it’s okay to repeat items!

For heavier items like shoes or purses, I want utility – lightweight, but appropriate for the job. I also want them to be neutral and comfortable to wear or carry.

Conclusion and Post-Script

This means of packing for a luxury cruise will help me be certain that I don’t overpack.  At the same time, I’ll have plenty of wardrobe options that I can mix and match with ease.

This article has been revised to keep content fresh.  Packing for a luxury cruise is something I do a couple times each year so I continue to refine the process!  Our article Five Strategies for Chronic Overpackers is also a good resource.

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