Packing light

Yeah, it's more of a struggle for my wife then me, but our self imposed rule of only one carry-on each makes the "traveling" part of the vacation much more bearable.

And I'm a notorious over-packer who anguishes over what to remove from the suitcase before leaving home.

We're not that good yet. Maybe someday, but highly unlikely.

We can do a carry-on (each) on a 7/8 day Caribbean cruise. Key is controlling shoes. You can plan each day and if you have laundry perks, make it easy. We don't like waiting for bags at the airport or when disembarking. Its a waist of vacation time.

As a self aware chronic over packer, I can say the one thing I learned on my first cruise is that I won't change in to jeans in the evenings. Looking back... what was I thinking bringing 4 pairs of jean!?!

I still over pack on dresses and things and I am the type that "needs" a different swim suit daily. BUT DON'T BRING 4 PAIRS OF JEANS (along with other regular pants I packed might I add )

Interesting topic. I never worried about over-packing, nor the weight.

I carried the passports and boarding passes, the (ex) wife carried all the suitcases.

I too enjoyed the Princess self-laundry service. I sent her at least once, maybe twice, while I enjoyed the poolside service, or watched the evening shows.

The most I've overpacked for was a few shirts.

I bring a little more for daytime, especially on hot port days or we plan on doing laundry. I cut back on evening clothes because you can often wear them again, especially pants/capris. Other than one light dress, everything is either black or it's a top to wear with black bottoms/skirt. I don't bring heels at all and stick with my glitter flip flops. I only bring 2 pairs of sandals plus 1 pair of sneakers. I simplify my toiletries and accessories also. Key for cutting back is letting go of having as many options as you do at home. Not everyone want to do that but it works pretty well for me.

Shipboard laundry is the best service ever!! On HAL, it's free if you're in a suite; $20/bag if not, $49 for week unlimited.

We typically do the $20 bag a couple times or the $49 unlimited if more than 2 of us. I now get all my dirties done day before disembarkation so that I have all clean clothes to unpack when I get home - no more spending post-cruise time doing laundry. Since I am still employed FT, reducing post-cruise stress and activities is important - my emoyer tends to frown on granting vacation time to recover from vacation.

Been a few years since I've been on one, but Princess has self-laundry on some ships. That is great for the occasional mishap.

Both self-serve and laundry service have helped me reduce packing by at least 50%.

Scuba tanks in your carry on? LOL! My hubby had overpacked but we now

use the laundry and there are over 3K people and different ports. Who will remember or care if you wear the same thing as long as it’s not stinky.😁 Like your wife I am looking for the synthetics that are light and dry quickly, cotton a no-no. Your opinion is appreciated. I am making notes of all replies so a big thank you.

Thanks, I am on the right track. I have some of what you said so thank you for writing.