by Susan Mcdaniel

Created on: November 02, 2009

Packing for a cruise should not be a stressful chore. It should instead be an anticipatory event: one that engages your imagination and feeds your enthusiasm for the adventure ahead. Knowing how to pack, as well as what to pack, allows you to enjoy the packing process rather than obsess over it.

No one ever tells you exactly how to pack, but there are definitely tricks and tips that make everything easier and more efficient. First, decide which suitcases to use. Generally, in a couples situation, the woman takes the largest case. The man uses the next size down. You might consider the advantages of having the gentleman nest the next two smaller size cases and pack in the smaller bag. This allows only one case per person to be checked and saves on charges, while allowing an extra bag for the way home which you can fill with souvenirs and other purchases. Any clothing that won't fit in the smaller case can be placed in the lady's larger one.

Alternately, you might want to pack the third bag with items for your port excursions like snorkel and swim gear, a zippered beach bag, sand shoes, etc. These things aren't necessary because you can rent or buy them at your destination, but if you have the extra bag and you aren't flying or don't mind paying extra fees, why not use it?

On the floor of your main suitcases, always put your socks and swimsuits and underwear: items that can be balled up and tucked into the nooks and crannies without worrying about wrinkling. Then, take your shorts, tops, pants, and skirts and roll each item from bottom to top. Rolling is the key to saving space and having neat, wrinkle-free clothing. Roll men's dress and knit shirts as well after having neatly folded them. It is amazing how much space this simple tactic saves. Once you do it, you will never go back to laying your pieces flat.

The fancy dresses, blazers, men's suits, and any formal wear should all be laid flat, on hangers if possible, atop your rolled items. Then place a kitchen garbage bag down over it all and tuck it in. You will surely find a use for the bag and it will keep your clothes clean because you are going to put your shoes on top.

Wear your clunkiest, heaviest shoes, usually sneakers, to the ship. Your sandals, dress shoes, and perhaps sand shoes all go in plastic grocery bags. Place them on top of the trash bag. This is done to make the security inspections easier. Otherwise, the inspectors will be rummaging through your entire suitcase. Also put your blow dryer,

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