Even though it was 12 years ago, I remember going on my first cruise.
It was a big family trip, and we sailed from Vancouver to Alaska. Â Highlights from that trip – horseback riding in the pouring rain, countless orders of french fries and fruit plates from room service, and marveling at how my mother managed to arrange a private room and homemade Indian food for dinner every night.
That Mama Palepu. Â She’s my hero.
The decided LOWLIGHT of the trip was my overstuffed suitcase. Â It was filled with clothes I never ended up wearing, makeup I never applied, and heavy hardcover books that were never opened. Â Lugging it through the Vancouver train station was challenging, to say the least.
Fast forward 12 years, and we’re gearing up for another cruise. Â This time, just my husband, my carry-on suitcase, and a brand new destination. Â Scandinavia, we’re coming for ya! Â (Please excuse my cheesiness. Â I can’t control it).
CLICK the image below to watch my Cruise Packing List video with Divine Caroline.
in the video >>Â suitcase //Â maxi dress // necklace // flats // heels // sandals // detergent // first aid kit // international mifi
Why a maxi dress?  It is one of the most versatile items to pack for a trip.  They’re comfortable to wear on an airplane, and can be dressed up with a simple necklace and a pair of heels.  This one from Old Navy is my JAM (as seen here).  The jersey fabric is wrinkle resistant, the neckline is super flattering, and it’s ridiculously comfortable.
My 3 shoes per trip rule continues to hold. Â The shoes mentioned in the video (flats, heels, sandals) are intended for a beach cruise. Â If you’re headed to a colder destination, opt for flats, stylish sneakers, and a pair of heels to tide you through. Â Make sure two pairs of the shoes are well-suited for the rain (or just pack a pair of Go-Go-Galoshes).
Travel detergent. Â I don’t go anywhere without it. Â Laundry is crazy expensive on a cruise ship. Â Save your hard earned dough for a cocktail and pack this travel detergent instead. Â And never go an any trip without it.
Yes, there will be a health care professional on board. Â Is that a reason to risk a visit to the infirmary? Â Pack some basic medicines in a pouch – pain reliever, Band Aids, Pepto Bismol, Mucinex, Dramamine. Â ESPECIALLY Dramamine.
Another thing cruise ships like to charge out the wahoo? Â INTERNET. Â If you have limited days out at sea, rent a global MiFi that will work in the countries you’re visiting. Â XCOM Global has a great European plan – I opted for that and added Russia as well. Â Total cost? Â WELL under what roaming charges would have been – plus my husband can use it too. Â The device connects up to 10 devices, AND encrypts all your data. Â WIN.
You can follow my travels on Instagram – thanks to my MiFi, I’ll be posting up a storm. Â Do svidaniya!
