Packing for a Cruise Vacation

Are you a cruiser? I've only been on one cruise, nearly 20 years ago, so Scott (Mr. CT) and I are excited to embark on a Princess Cruise to the Eastern Caribbean in the very near future. The added bonus is that we will be cruising the high seas with my best friend since 4th grade, Deb, and her husband, Bruce. I'm already picturing the fun we are going to have onboard the Crown Princess visiting destinations such as Turks and Caicos, Antigua, St. Kitts, Nevis, St. John and St. Thomas.

With this travel adventure on the horizon, I'm in packing mode. This is my color palette above from yesterday. Though packing the right clothing is important, in my opinion, the most important packing for a cruise vacation is the paperwork. A passport is a must, but so is the embarkation paperwork and boarding pass. Review all info carefully and remember that the names on passports and boarding passes must be the same or you will not be allowed to board. Look carefully at the FAQ and information specific to your cruise.

While packing is always a bit of a challenge for me, I'm realizing that packing for a cruise is a bit different than a resort getaway. On this cruise, there are two formal nights. While not exactly the ball gown type, I'm happy to throw on some pretty black pieces and a statement necklace with a stylish clutch. I'll pack several pairs of low sandals with non-skid soles, a gallon of sunscreen, several sarongs and swimsuits. I purchased a new hat, especially for shore excursions, as well as a waterproof bag to house camera and essentials for our shore excursions. My iPad is loaded with new reads and tunes.

You can see more of my packing vibe and follow along on our cruise on IG link below.

For more of my packing list:

I have a feeling I'm going to live in caftans on our cruise, especially on 'at sea' days -and I'm such a fan of Melissa Odabash here. A sarong, or three, is a must for my tropical vacation. I like this one. I often purchase a couple of sarongs while on vacation to take home with me.

I'm packing several sundresses like this from Trina Turk. For formal dinner one night I'm packing a one-shoulder blouse to wear with a skirt, like this one. It's dramatic in black but easy to wear. Of course, a few swimsuits are essential for a Caribbean cruise. I like a one piece, especially when sunbathing around other cruisers and beach goers here, here and here. I'm packing my Jack Rogers Thongs here. As well as a couple of pairs of slides like these. I'll be taking some very simple jewelry here and a couple of statement pieces here and here, wrapped up in this. I'll always take some pretty and protective lipstick here and a powerful sunscreen here.