Voyage Vibes: Packing Your Bags - Cruise Edition (A.K.A. How to Not Be That Person Onboard)

Voyage Vibes: Mastering Cruise Pack Essentials (A.K.A. How to Cruise like a Pro)

Just booked your dream Caribbean Cruise? Congratulations! You're on your way to sun-drenched beaches, captivating golden-hour photos, and the occasional spontaneous beach dance-off in St. Maarten.

But before you get carried away with the exciting part, here's one thing that requires your attention...

Packing Right for your Cruise

To be caught unprepared is a traveller's nightmare! Let's steer clear of that possibility.

🧳Choosing the Right Luggage

With a wealth of cruising experience under my belt, I've developed a strategic approach to choosing luggage.

Rule #1: Don't make your luggage look like your life depends on it. You're on a vacation, remember?

Follow this proven packing formula:

✈️Flying to your port? Remember, airlines have baggage fees.

🚘Driving to your location? Reserve some space for flexibility but pack with wisdom.

Kick-start with an Islander's Packing List

This list goes beyond the basic "stuff and zip." This is a specifically tailored Hot Caribbean Islander's packing list.

Your Daily Essentials (Consider yourself an honorary mermaid)

Frankly speaking, your swimsuit will be your second skin.  Here are the absolute essentials:

On a Day at Sea? Your swimsuit + coverup = your ideal attire.

For a Beach Excursion? Stick to your basic attire and toss in:

Prepare for Adventure

If you're up for adventurous pursuits (like ATV mud-drives or rainforest zipline), make sure to check the excursion description thoroughly.

Your cute rhinestone sandals may not cut it for all occasions. Instead, pack:

Embracing the Nighttime Cruise Elegance

After sunset, cruises embody an entirely different charm. Indulge in a swanky dinner or sway to live music, embracing your inner goddess.

Let's explore the essence of evening wear on cruise nights..

Decoding the Evening Dress Code

Your aim should be somewhere between Oscar-style opulence and a casual beach day. Cruise lines mainly recommend chic casual attire, which translates to:

For the Dining Room:

You don't need to dress extravagantly... but why lose the chance to stun?

Special Occasions: Time for Show-stopping Outfits

Usually, a 7-night cruise includes one "formal" night. Consider it a fancier, more mature prom night–albeit sans chaperones. It's your chance to go all out!

💋Tip: Dressing up is not just about appearance—it’s about feeling good. Don't hesitate to stand out and walk the walk.

Themed Nights: Your Chance to Break the Norm

Here's where the real fun lies: the explosive themed nights. Make sure to check your cruise planner ahead to show up dressed appropriately.

Being "extra" is part and parcel of cruising. Embrace it!

Packing Pep Talk

You don't need to be glamorous every day, but you deserve to feel wonderful. Cruises let you embrace your style and wear whatever makes you feel fabulous. So pack wisely...

Pack to inspire fun.