Not Another Packing List

I don't know about you, but every time I stumble upon a blog claiming to have cracked the code on "What to pack on your next cruise," it's like déjà vu with a side of uselessness. It's the same old list of foldable laundry baskets, hanging pockets (which are banned from most boats), magnetic hooks, and a room fan that inevitably gives up on life halfway through the trip. Honestly, the stuff I'm thrilled I packed usually ends up being ridiculous, and the things I forget? Oh, just the actual necessities, like underwear!

So, without further ado, here's my totally essential pack list with my oh-so-genuine reasons with no sponsored Amazon links.

1. Underwear - It's not just an accessory; it's a necessity! Trust me, make sure you've packed some. My husband and I, on totally unrelated trips, both managed to forget our undies. We ended up either going commando or strutting around in our swimsuits way more than anticipated. Who knew a beach vacation could turn into a fashion statement?

2. Glasses/Extra Contacts - Salty air and sandy beaches might be a treat for your soul, but they're a downright menace for your peepers, especially if you're a member of the "I Need Glasses" club. A tiny bit of irritation can turn your dream cruise into a blurry nightmare. While the ship's medical crew is armed with saline to rinse those irritated eyes, they're not magicians who can conjure up a new pair of contacts or whip up some emergency specs. So, pack those extras, or risk navigating the deck with nothing but a hope and prayer you don't knock into everyone on board.

3. Comfy Kicks - We all remember those sandals for the beach and those fancy new heels for strutting around the dining room. But let's not forget the unsung heroes: those trusty sneakers that help you conquer staircases and brave the wild seas. Sure, I love a good fashion statement, but when the ocean decides to throw a tantrum, it's my sneakers that keep me upright and not doing an impromptu interpretive dance on the deck.

4. Sunglasses - Sure, they might seem like the divas of the accessory world, but trust me, you don't want to be caught squinting in every photo on your vacation. You could snag a pair at your destination or on the boat, but they'll cost you an arm and a leg and probably fall apart faster than a cheap horror movie plot. So, do yourself a favor and toss an extra pair in your suitcase, just in case your first pair decides to go on its own adventure!

5. Cash - Although you can prepay your gratuities and have most things sorted on the boat, but bringing a little cash is absolutely essential! Not only will you want to tip those superheroes who go above and beyond (and trust me, on every cruise, I meet a whole league of them), but the porters, bar staff, and excursion crew will do a happy dance when their hard work is noticed with a little extra green.

I'm not here to parrot what influencers say about jazzing up your stateroom with all sorts of creature comforts. Sure, they might add a little pizzazz, but let’s face it, on every cruise I've been on, the cabin space is tight and we try to keep it light on the knick-knacks. And while I won't say magnetic hooks are the secret sauce to happiness they can help make the space feel more like home. I will also admit we go all out with door decorations like it’s a craft fair, however, I will say you can sail just fine without them and I can't say the same about underwear.

Let me know what else you think is a must pack to make sure your sailing as smooth as possible in the comments!