Are you an overpacker?

[cruisetarp]

After all the cruises we have been on I still marvel at the folks that have one mid-sized suitcase and a small carry on. Are you a compulsive over-packer or do you run out of clean things to wear before the cruise is over. I am a bad over-packer but Jim is even worse than I am.

[coloradocruisers]

MaryLou, we made a conscious effort to cut back this time, and found that you can get by with less. We went so far as to purchase quick drying undergarments that could be washed in the stateroom and hung out to dry. I rented a tux for formal nights, which was around $80, but I did pack my own cumberbund/bowtie sets so I could customize. For a family of four, we got by with three suitcases, and four carry-ons. We did pack video camera, waterproof cameras, beach toys, etc., and allowed room for souvenirs - which included a couple pretty cool shirts I purchased in the islands.

[KeithnRita]

If we are flying we are a little more conservative on our packing. When we drive to port it seems we bring about twice as much as we can wear!

[Shari2]

Used to be an overpacker, but have had to cut back with the charges for extra pounds and luggage these days...and also since my carrier (Marc, my DH) has gotten a little older and says he isn't up to hauling all that luggage anymore. I have a bad back so can usually only handle my carryon (with wheels) and a large purse. I definitely want to save on my hubby's back, so, last cruise I managed with one 29" piece of luggage and the wheeled carry-on and the large(huge) purse that I could set on top of the wheeled carry-on to pull. Instead of fancy gowns, I brought a couple of pairs of slinky black slacks and sparkly tops for dress up, and brought things that I could mix and match. Did send a couple of things to be cleaned. It worked out much better than I thought it would. A couple of years ago we bought new luggage than can all be attached and pulled together, so it is much easier on my honey.

[DebbieandJerry]

I am an over-packer. No matter what, I end up packing way more than I use and also end up doing laundry at least 2 times for the undies and Jerry's jeans. After our last trip, I made a list of what we wore. I vow only to pack those items.

We also didn't take ultra formal wear on our last cruise. I packed black skirt and black pants and matched different tops. Really worked out well for me. Jerry wore the same "dressy outfit" each formal night.

I like the idea of quick drying undies. I need to check that out. Biggest problem with the humidity is nothing really drys in the stateroom.

Can't blame Jerry because I pack his suitcase as well.

[sailingrose]

I've gotten pretty good at packing and usually don't bring home much in the way of clean things. The cold weather vacations are a challenge for us like Alaska and Canada/NE will be in September

[zebra]

Yes I am definitely an overpacker. Tony would fit all his clothes into a carryon if I didn't intervene. I am trying to get better though .......

[coloradocruisers]

I like the idea of quick drying undies. I need to check that out. Biggest problem with the humidity is nothing really drys in the stateroom.

So true Debbie. We took along clothespins so we could hang things on the backs of the balcony chairs. Nothing tacky, as it was dark and we positioned the chairs so our laundry was hidden. You can check out "Ex Officio" brand. May have been on Travelsmith.

[rogue]

We're getting better at packing. We still pack way too much, but nearly what we used to. We'll be driving to our next cruise, so we will not care how much we pack.

[DebbieandJerry]

Thanks for the Travelsmith tip. Never bought anything from them. But I do enjoy their catalogue. It's where I got the 'basic black" outfit idea a number of years ago.