Planning a cruise? Get The Ultimate Cruise Planner. It's a 47 page printable cruise travel planner with packing checklists, shore excursion planning forms and much more! ($10 off for a limited time). Here are the details: lifewellcruised.com/ultimate-cruise-planner
Okay, I did it! I finally bought it - I couldn’t resist after this great deal! We are going on our 2nd ever cruise 100 days from now and it’s all in Europe (NCL Prima 🤩) but that’s not all, I have to pack the entire house up to move across country before we leave for this cruise, as we move when we come back from the cruise 🤯 lol a lot of work and I think this planner will save me some time and headaches! Thank you Ilana 💜 🚢
Another tip for packing cubes, we've been using for years. Reuse the packaging linens come in. Sheet sets, pillowcases, blankets, tablecloths. They are all made of clear, heavy duty, zippered, plastic. Roll clothing to help with wrinkles, and pack more. We use one for bottoms, another for tops, etc. These can also be dropped in a drawer, or neatly stacked on closet shelving. We also keep like things together, such as laundry items, pool items, electronics. Super easy to see what's inside without having to open the "cube". Thanks for your tips and keep 'em coming. Best wishes for great success with your new full time gig!
dollar store has small clear see through zipper bags that r a perfect size for 7 pair of undies n 7 pair of socks... those small items used to float around in dresser drawers and drive me crazy when i could not find them ...now w these little clear zipper bags aaaahhhh my mind is calm lol i also use 4 of them in my purse to contain items...i can SEE the items n they r contained so i only have to lift 4 things (little zipper bags) each time i am looking for something ...instead of digging and digging and looking n looking n still not finding my blistex or rolaids lol
Usually the life jackets are under the bed so what I usually do is I put the life jackets in the top of the closet and then put my luggage under the bed. This frees up space and makes me feel better that I can get to the life jackets for the mister drill and then if I need it later I know exactly where it is
My first cruise was delayed because a forklift loading pallets of luggage dropped a pallet between the ship and pier. The Captain announced a delay while divers recovered luggage from the bay.
Regarding tipping………… on my first cruise in 1989 I was young and not very worldly. I did not tip the porter and even told him I wasn’t giving him any money. We got our luggage at midnight. Coincidence? I don’t think so. Tip your porter.
I have planned three cruises this year AND YOUR TIPS, RECOMMENDATIONS, AND PLANNING has been exponentially fortuitous. I will cruise more beautifully because of you (and your family). 03/14/23 3:00pm
I take colorful scarves and tie them to the handles for visibility. Yay scarves on clearance or thrift stores! Re storing luggage - think Russian nesting dolls for placing your smaller bags Inside your large one
My wife came up with putting our carryon suitcase at the bottom of the closet and put dirty clothes in there as they accumulate. Makes a packed suitcase to put right in the washer when you get home👍😎
On Carnival, they charge $5 (at least) for a gallon of distilled water. They do allow you to carry one on. And the case of 12pk water is around $12. My last cruise in 2019 it was around $5.
I know that this video is a year old but I did enjoy it; when I pack clothing for both my husband and myself in each of our suitcases this was a tip that another passenger gave me on our first cruise. I am a list maker and I start a few weeks before we leave.
One thing that I do to make my bag stand out is this. I crochet a piece long enough to tie around the handle, usually in a bright color. It really helps and no one handling bags at the airport or cruise terminal has issues with it. In fact they just wondered where I came up with the idea.
I’ve been doing that for years also. On my last Celebrity cruise in early 2020 I was given 2 reds and 2 whites for the cabin to celebrate my birthday. Someone has to drink the 🍷 😁
One thing on our last cruise we went on, was I took a few minutes to pack a door decoration of some kind and blue painter’s tape to stick it up with. I am crafty so I made a scarecrow since it was fall. I got so many comments on it, not because it was cute, but because people looked for it so they knew they were in the right corridor. Our room was directly across from the elevator so they knew which way their room was. I have also seen store bought posters or signs used for the same purpose.
We pack in carry on - learned years ago when our luggage went a couple places before it joined us, we need much less than we used to pack. This allows us to board the ship with all our stuff and be unpacked by the time we have watched the muster drill on TV. Do use magnets for the wall, collapsing boxes to keep things tidy in the bathroom and on the desk. 58 days until we head to Amsterdam for our next adventure.
For the first day carryon bag, we use a small roller bag suitcase. It is easier to pull around than having a heavy tote bag on your shoulder. We board in the afternoon and our first stop is our room where we drop off the roller bag. - Thanks for all the great tips!
Your response is exactly what I was looking for. You know how we all watch videos and scroll through the comments to see if anyone is mentioning exactly what you are wondering. I have a rolling carry-on that looks like a small duffel bag but it has wheels and a handle extends and I was wondering if that would be okay to bring with my one large checked bag. I'm so glad to have run across your comment
We are in Miami, so we have so many choices of Ports and Ships that we rarely catch a plane to go to any port. We usually pack with hangers, when we get to the cabin and our luggage is there, we are unpacked in 5 minutes. That is the advantage of living close to three main ports, drive and park. Thank you for your great videos.
We purchased several of the items you discussed in this video and other videos for our most recent cruise. And without a doubt the most useful were the two magnetic hooks for the cabin walls and doors. The heavy duty hooks were the most useful and we found many unconventional used for them. Kept us very organized and gave us additional useful space that we would not otherwise have.
we use the magnetic hooks to hang one of the cheap shoe organizers. We use it to unpack and arrange all our bathroom items, everyday items, shoes, etc. we just unpack our suitcases, fill up the organizer, and enjoy the freedom of not having to "search" for stuff or have stuff sitting everywhere.
Great information on luggage and packing. On DCL (Disney) you can bring as much pop and water as you can fit in your carry-on (NOT checked luggage) but you have to schlep it around until staterooms open - usually about 1:30. I love packing cubes (for least wrinkling of tops, dresses, and pants) and compression cubes (t-shirts, underwear, swimsuits, socks, and shorts). Please emphasize having all your cruise documents in the personal bag that stays with you. Luggage drop (porters) is well before entering the terminal and processing. By the time you realize the paperwork is in the checked luggage, OH that is a problem!
Lots of great information I'm driving my husband mad all talk about is our cruise and what I hear on your videos and I only discovered you a couple of nights ago I'm not away for another year
Going on my first cruise in August and I’m so excited and nervous. Lol But your videos are great! So informative that you’ve put me at ease. I will be sharing all your tips with my husband and I’ll probably watch them again as we get closer to our sail date. Thank you 😊
I do have a caution for you and the viewers: We did our first cruise last year. I have a special water bottle with a flavor pack on it (Circul!) that I keep with me. I'm on medication that dries out my mouth and the doc has told me that I need liquid. I usually drink 4 or 5 --36oz bottles full a day to combat the dryness. I'm getting a note from him this next cruise (in May) to make this easier, however, that last cruise I got challenged. We were pre-boarding (I have MS and in a wheelchair) and the TSA guy said he was going to have to dump out my bottle before boarding. I need this water and I had about 1/3 of the bottle still with water so I started drinking quickly so I would have some hydration before the rest got dumped out. The guy laughed and said "Ok, don't worry about it, if you're willing to drink it, it's not explosive or caustic so go through. It was very nice of him. As I said, I'm going to get a doctor's note for this so maybe we won't have an issue again. I even sleep with this next to me so I can drink when I need to so it's vital it's available.
We always finish water well BEFORE Security, and buy more after. That's the scam at every airport. Even with a doctor's note, any "large" amounts of liquids (more than 3oz) will get you flagged & aggressively hand-searched and questioned, in public, by US Security. The Security staff are *extremely* adversarial and prejudiced toward disabled folks. They are selected to be the worst bullies and abusers and bigots they can find. Even if it's IV meds that are your liquids, they'll maliciously tamper with ALL OF IT. We've had injectables ripped into by Security staff, left leaking, useless. They couldn't care less. Security WILL absolutely rip open, damage, maul, break, and GSR swab *everything*, regardless if you are immunocompromised or items are marked "sterile". They will arbitrarily demand you "open up" a CPAP motor casing, when they aren't designed to be opened. They will often confiscate refrigerator gel-packs for temperature sensitive meds, and they *do not care* if they destroy thousands of dollars worth of meds by doing so. They do not care about *your* safety, or *your* medical needs. They arbitrarily invent new ways to harass & harm all the time. They think it's "fun". Security staff - ESPECIALLY US Security - detest disabled folks and will be rude, arrogant and assume you are stupid or a faker. They *will* make ableist, bigoted comments ("jokes") and will often deliberately pinch, bruise or trip disabled folks. Sometimes much worse. Never EVER agree to a "private" search, they will assault you, or worse, your child. The most you can do is *request* they change their filthy, disgusting gloves prior to mauling & contaminating sterile medical supplies - or you. Most will laugh, and REFUSE to do so, of course, and then roll their eyes & ridicule you. They will *absolutely* violate your dignity and your privacy by loudly questioning you about items. It does NOT matter if you pre-book through "TSA Cares" (what a name 🙄) or anything else. You *will* be poorly treated and everything will be contaminated. We travel extensively, and we know we must prepare for inevitable abuse by Security *every* time. Even with Nexus cards. Even as people with enhanced clearance. They were even abusive to our disabled CHILD on her "Wish" trip with "Make-A-Wish". She was visibly disabled & ill, and we were escorted by an airline guide, but Security were still abusive monsters, ripped into medical supplies, left massive bruises on her, and ruined much of her medical supplies. That tells you what kind of people the Security staff really are. Be prepared.
Question: Do you ever decorate cabin door? Now Carnival requiring “fire resistant “ decorations. Can you do a video for fire resistant cabin door decorations? Thanks
When I travel outside North America, I bring an adapter to convert between different voltages and outlet configurations. Useful when staying in a local hotel. But the cruise ships I've been on (all Holland America Line) have standard 120 V outlets in the cabins. I think they may have a couple of other kinds of outlets, but if you need / want something other than 120 V North American outlets, check with the cruise line.
I'll never ever check my luggage again the 1st time i did it to to long for them to bring it. The cruise i just went on it was on the wrong side of the ship and my husbands watch was missing. They lost a lot of bags that day. Im good ill carry it on
I bought packing cubes about 5 years ago for my husband and me and, boy, were they a miracle for packing! And to be able to take the cube directly from the suitcase to the drawers/closets was so nice.
I bought packing cubes this year for the first time. I used one for an overnight trip and it was a game changer! I am usually an over-packer and was able to fit everything in 1 tote bag and large hand bag. I'm a believer!
I’m going on my first cruise soon and can’t wait! I’m usually anxious about over packing and then STILL forgetting stuff. This is so informative. Thanks 😅
You CAN pack for a full week including formal wear in a carry on!!!! Done it several times. The big thing to limit is shoes. One pair sandals, one pair sneakers, one pair flats, 1 pair heels. We always fly(live in Ohio). Use small toiletries It can be done and then you can carry off luggage & get off first & don’t have to hunt for your luggage in the terminal which I hate. Mix and match clothing and coordinate colors. Trust me. It can be done
My 20-something daughter just reminded me she was in Europe, with only a backpack, for 2 months. She said if she could do that, I can pack with only a carryon. ;)
Glad to hear that you can primary a carry on. The rules were a bit confusing as we just booked our first cruise. I am used to traveling for up to a month at a time with just a backpack, so I will stick to just the carry on.
1) do they allow selfie-stick? 2)others than alcohol and such hat cruise don’t allow, is there any gift or souvenirs that they don’t allow to bring back (similar to tsa rule about food, etc)
Just ordered the grey carry-on, luggage tag holder & packing cubes. Thanks for taking the time to compile all of this helpful information. I feel like i'm stalking all of your vids lol : )
I cannot find the type or size of transparent luggage tags you mentioned in the comments. Does anyone know which ones fit Holland America luggage tags? THANK YOU FOR YOUR FANTASTIC CHANNEL
I travel with a European adapter on my cruises. Most cabins have both North American and European outlets and having the adapter allows me to have an extra North American outlet.
As a general rule I don’t use packing cubes. I can fit more by rolling. The exception is my sweaters. They don’t roll well, and a compression cube does reduce the space they take. I pack in one carryon and one tote, for any cruise over 5 days. For 5 days or less I just pack in my large tote.
We always bring powerplug converters. Laptop, camera & something else all have AU plugs. SO, we carry a couple US to AU and EU to AU adapters and use all the available ship power points! Avoids power strips which RCI at least didn't accept on our first cruise with them (Hawaii to Brisbane). CMV didn't mind power strips but they were wiped out in the COVID shutdowns, pity.
It should be fine but be prepared to sit at a bar for a while as everyone on the cruise is at the central elevators. If you are feeling strong, there are stairs next to the elevator that few people use.
I take a travel electric kettle so light and a small as I also take my porlex coffee grinder to make my own coffee can I do this. It also saves me so much money
Illana, thank you for making these awesome videos! I know there’s somewhere I read that we’re supposed to take a selfie (and where does that go?) and do a health questionnaire and get the card with billing info on it. Who gives us those things? Cabin key? 🙃
That was a very interesting comment about not locking your bags that are given for scanning and then brought to your room. I am basically a non-trusting person and have always locked my bags just as I have when checking luggage at the airport. I can't think of anything I would put in my bag that would not be allowed. I never thought about it but I guess I would assume the checkers/scanners haves TSA lock keys so they can open the luggage. But then why would they have keys, those for TSA inspectors.
Ilana I love your cruise channel and all the videos. My husband and I are first time cruisers and i am addicted to your channel. We have travelled a lot around the world but never a cruise. I start my day at work watching one or two of your episodes. I love the packing for a cruise. I was watching and could not find the water shoe link below. I found a lot of the other things which are a fantastic ideas as well, and linked them through my amazon account. Please let me know the link for the thin water shoes. thanks a lot Christine
We have used your ultimate cruise planner for five cruises since the restart. We have also created our own personal electronics page. I keep meaning to send that to you. But we enjoy that it has warm weather packing list and a cold for the packing list. It helped us traveling in the Caribbean and Alex. Thank you for taking the time.
My first cruise is in June this year and we are flying to the port the day before. These videos help guide me to be efficient. Im packing for the cruise the same as flying so no checked bags.
We tip the porter $20 to ensure no issue with our luggage. Between my husband and I - we haveb2 regular suitcases and one carryon. We keep meds and document with us.
I don’t necessarily lock my luggage but I use sip ties to keep it zipped throughout the air travel but if it has to be accessed but the cruise line it can.
Celebrity cruises as of this moment 2024 March 18. There is no limit, but they ask for you to be respectful and you’re bringing such amount of luggage. How much luggage can a guest bring onboard? There is no limit or restrcition, however we recommend each guest carry a reasonable amount of personal property and limit the number of pieces they bring.
Thank you about the tip on not locking the luggage bags. I always locked them without any problems but will leave the bags unlocked for my next cruise.
On my last cruise, I got called down to the holding area, or naughty room as you call it, because I had two empty plastic squirt guns. Royal Caribbean is wayyy too picky on things like that. Instead of purchasing them on the cruise or at a cruise stop, I bought them at the dollar store; to use on the private island. They took them anyway, and held them until disembarkation.
When you say carry-on is that the smaller roller suitcase? I bought a set of luggage that is a large and a small suitcase. I want to use the small roller, a large tote bag, and my purse. I don't want to check my bags. I don't want to go through that hassle and would rather just walk on and off with it all. I know I'll have to carry it all until my room is ready. I guess I'm asking if the small roller must be checked.
I like to roll my bags to the cruise instead of giving them to porters. Any size limit for carrying your own luggage to the room? I do appreciaeyour comments. Thank you so much for your videos.
I got a really lovely tote bag from Mia Tui travel bag. I love it so much! It keeps everything organised and being able to slip over the suitcase handle is a major blessing! So much easier than a handbag and backpack. I can’t wait for my cruises.
@@LifeWellCruised I saw Emma (Emma Cruises) give a review on the packing cubes and bought them, then went back and got the bag. Mia Tui is in England but they do shipping to most countries including USA and Canada. I got the Jennie in Graphite and it’s just perfect!
On our first cruise, I didn't think of storing the suitcases under the bed. We had 2 large and I medium suitcase. Stored the medium in the large and put them in the closet with the life jackets.
Any more my usual belt is totally non-metalic and i put all my stuff in a fanny pack with my phone pouch mounted on the fanny pack belt, and do this for both flights and boarding so I can drop everything off the belt and nothing n my pockets for going through security.
“Cruise-casters” often tip us off the the fact that a cruise line will let us bring one bottle of wine per person on embarkation day. What is the rule about buying wine in ports of call and bringing that on board. Allowed? Disallowed? Allowed would make enjoying a glass on your balcony cheaper. And if allowed can you also have that uncorked at your table in the main fir dinner. And what is the general uncorking fee?
Planning a cruise? Get The Ultimate Cruise Planner. It's a 47 page printable cruise travel planner with packing checklists, shore excursion planning forms and much more! ($10 off for a limited time). Here are the details: lifewellcruised.com/ultimate-cruise-planner
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Okay, I did it! I finally bought it - I couldn’t resist after this great deal! We are going on our 2nd ever cruise 100 days from now and it’s all in Europe (NCL Prima 🤩) but that’s not all, I have to pack the entire house up to move across country before we leave for this cruise, as we move when we come back from the cruise 🤯 lol a lot of work and I think this planner will save me some time and headaches! Thank you Ilana 💜 🚢
I bought your planner about a year ago. My emails have been lost. How can I get another copy.
@@estherfisher hi Esther, please send me an email at lifewellcruised@gmail.com so I can help :)
do they check for Bed Bugs?
I use brightly colored bandannas tied to my suitcases… I am always able to find them easily
Another tip for packing cubes, we've been using for years. Reuse the packaging linens come in. Sheet sets, pillowcases, blankets, tablecloths. They are all made of clear, heavy duty, zippered, plastic. Roll clothing to help with wrinkles, and pack more. We use one for bottoms, another for tops, etc. These can also be dropped in a drawer, or neatly stacked on closet shelving. We also keep like things together, such as laundry items, pool items, electronics. Super easy to see what's inside without having to open the "cube". Thanks for your tips and keep 'em coming. Best wishes for great success with your new full time gig!
Great ideas!
I have been doing that for years! The original packing cubes 😉
I use those cloth or plastic bags for shoes and love packing cubes popped right into the drawers!
dollar store has small clear see through zipper bags that r a perfect size for 7 pair of undies n 7 pair of socks... those small items used to float around in dresser drawers and drive me crazy when i could not find them ...now w these little clear zipper bags aaaahhhh my mind is calm lol
i also use 4 of them in my purse to contain items...i can SEE the items n they r contained so i only have to lift 4 things (little zipper bags) each time i am looking for something ...instead of digging and digging and looking n looking n still not finding my blistex or rolaids lol
Yes! I've done this!
The Shein bags work well for packing also
Usually the life jackets are under the bed so what I usually do is I put the life jackets in the top of the closet and then put my luggage under the bed. This frees up space and makes me feel better that I can get to the life jackets for the mister drill and then if I need it later I know exactly where it is
My favorite thing to take now, is Shampoo and Conditioner bars, they don't count as liquids and they can go in a carry on.
I am a newbie cruiser, I have watched a lot of your videos! Very informative
My first cruise was delayed because a forklift loading pallets of luggage dropped a pallet between the ship and pier. The Captain announced a delay while divers recovered luggage from the bay.
😮
😮
Regarding tipping………… on my first cruise in 1989 I was young and not very worldly. I did not tip the porter and even told him I wasn’t giving him any money. We got our luggage at midnight. Coincidence? I don’t think so. Tip your porter.
I love how both my wife and I independently found and followed you!
To avoid corkage fees I open my bottle in my room and pour the glass (very full) and carry it to the dining room.
I have planned three cruises this year AND YOUR TIPS, RECOMMENDATIONS, AND PLANNING has been exponentially fortuitous. I will cruise more beautifully because of you (and your family).
03/14/23 3:00pm
I take colorful scarves and tie them to the handles for visibility. Yay scarves on clearance or thrift stores!
Re storing luggage - think Russian nesting dolls for placing your smaller bags Inside your large one
Smart!!
It’s very nice to give them 5.00 and up. It works great.
My wife came up with putting our carryon suitcase at the bottom of the closet and put dirty clothes in there as they accumulate. Makes a packed suitcase to put right in the washer when you get home👍😎
On Carnival, they charge $5 (at least) for a gallon of distilled water. They do allow you to carry one on. And the case of 12pk water is around $12. My last cruise in 2019 it was around $5.
I know that this video is a year old but I did enjoy it; when I pack clothing for both my husband and myself in each of our suitcases this was a tip that another passenger gave me on our first cruise. I am a list maker and I start a few weeks before we leave.
One thing that I do to make my bag stand out is this. I crochet a piece long enough to tie around the handle, usually in a bright color. It really helps and no one handling bags at the airport or cruise terminal has issues with it. In fact they just wondered where I came up with the idea.
Cool idea!
Thank you for your clear diction... makes a delight to listen to for this hard of hearing Australian lady
To avoid corkage fees at dinner, we pour a glass of wine prior to dinner and bring to dinner. (wine glasses come from stateroom attendant).
Great tip 👍
I’ve done that too many times
I’ve been doing that for years also. On my last Celebrity cruise in early 2020 I was given 2 reds and 2 whites for the cabin to celebrate my birthday. Someone has to drink the 🍷 😁
I usually tip 5 dollars per bag. I tend to overpack and use the largest suitcase I own. I also decorate my suitcase as well.
Thanks Nancy for sharing
Same here! $5.00 per bag has always seemed reasonable to me!
One thing on our last cruise we went on, was I took a few minutes to pack a door decoration of some kind and blue painter’s tape to stick it up with. I am crafty so I made a scarecrow since it was fall. I got so many comments on it, not because it was cute, but because people looked for it so they knew they were in the right corridor. Our room was directly across from the elevator so they knew which way their room was. I have also seen store bought posters or signs used for the same purpose.
Think about how much you would want to be paid if you were lugging bags up and down long hallways and tip accordingly!! Porter tips for sure!!
We pack in carry on - learned years ago when our luggage went a couple places before it joined us, we need much less than we used to pack. This allows us to board the ship with all our stuff and be unpacked by the time we have watched the muster drill on TV. Do use magnets for the wall, collapsing boxes to keep things tidy in the bathroom and on the desk. 58 days until we head to Amsterdam for our next adventure.
This is great and I like the collapsible boxes. Do you get these at the dollar store or Amazon?
@@LifeWellCruised Found them at IKEA - they fold flat with a zipper in the bottom. Just the right size for the bathroom shelves.
For the first day carryon bag, we use a small roller bag suitcase. It is easier to pull around than having a heavy tote bag on your shoulder. We board in the afternoon and our first stop is our room where we drop off the roller bag. - Thanks for all the great tips!
Your response is exactly what I was looking for. You know how we all watch videos and scroll through the comments to see if anyone is mentioning exactly what you are wondering. I have a rolling carry-on that looks like a small duffel bag but it has wheels and a handle extends and I was wondering if that would be okay to bring with my one large checked bag. I'm so glad to have run across your comment
Thank you for your great tips.suggestions on What wear on an Italy cruise at the end of October
We are in Miami, so we have so many choices of Ports and Ships that we rarely catch a plane to go to any port. We usually pack with hangers, when we get to the cabin and our luggage is there, we are unpacked in 5 minutes. That is the advantage of living close to three main ports, drive and park. Thank you for your great videos.
This is really smart! I think I’d I cruised “a lot” living near a port especially, I would start to do this
I also bring velvet thin hangers too and always will
Put a copy of your luggage tags inside each suitcase. I tips between $3-5 bag depending on how much I might have overpacked.
Thank you for the CPAP suggestion.
Will you do an actual packing video using the cubes and how you arrange it in your suitcase? That would be helpful.
I definitely could! Let me try and be organized in advance for my next cruise and try and film it :)
I have always locked my suitcase with the tsa approved locks and never had a problem.
We purchased several of the items you discussed in this video and other videos for our most recent cruise. And without a doubt the most useful were the two magnetic hooks for the cabin walls and doors. The heavy duty hooks were the most useful and we found many unconventional used for them. Kept us very organized and gave us additional useful space that we would not otherwise have.
we use the magnetic hooks to hang one of the cheap shoe organizers. We use it to unpack and arrange all our bathroom items, everyday items, shoes, etc. we just unpack our suitcases, fill up the organizer, and enjoy the freedom of not having to "search" for stuff or have stuff sitting everywhere.
Great information on luggage and packing. On DCL (Disney) you can bring as much pop and water as you can fit in your carry-on (NOT checked luggage) but you have to schlep it around until staterooms open - usually about 1:30. I love packing cubes (for least wrinkling of tops, dresses, and pants) and compression cubes (t-shirts, underwear, swimsuits, socks, and shorts). Please emphasize having all your cruise documents in the personal bag that stays with you. Luggage drop (porters) is well before entering the terminal and processing. By the time you realize the paperwork is in the checked luggage, OH that is a problem!
You’re so right! I mention this in a few other videos, but it’s true it’s a huge problem so worth repeating. Thanks for sharing the info about DCL
Always tip $5 per bag. They rely on this money. They are paid very little. I have to use a wheelchair. I always tip them $5.
WHAT ABOUT GARMENT BAGS FOR FORMAL WEAR???
My first cruise is January 2023 to celebrate my mother 80 birthday ❤️❤️❤️ her first as well and we can't wait I watch your videos everyday
How nice!! What a wonderful way to celebrate 🎉
Lots of great information I'm driving my husband mad all talk about is our cruise and what I hear on your videos and I only discovered you a couple of nights ago I'm not away for another year
Going on my first cruise in August and I’m so excited and nervous. Lol But your videos are great! So informative that you’ve put me at ease. I will be sharing all your tips with my husband and I’ll probably watch them again as we get closer to our sail date. Thank you 😊
I do have a caution for you and the viewers: We did our first cruise last year. I have a special water bottle with a flavor pack on it (Circul!) that I keep with me. I'm on medication that dries out my mouth and the doc has told me that I need liquid. I usually drink 4 or 5 --36oz bottles full a day to combat the dryness. I'm getting a note from him this next cruise (in May) to make this easier, however, that last cruise I got challenged. We were pre-boarding (I have MS and in a wheelchair) and the TSA guy said he was going to have to dump out my bottle before boarding. I need this water and I had about 1/3 of the bottle still with water so I started drinking quickly so I would have some hydration before the rest got dumped out. The guy laughed and said "Ok, don't worry about it, if you're willing to drink it, it's not explosive or caustic so go through. It was very nice of him. As I said, I'm going to get a doctor's note for this so maybe we won't have an issue again. I even sleep with this next to me so I can drink when I need to so it's vital it's available.
We always finish water well BEFORE Security, and buy more after.
That's the scam at every airport.
Even with a doctor's note, any "large" amounts of liquids (more than 3oz) will get you flagged & aggressively hand-searched and questioned, in public, by US Security.
The Security staff are *extremely* adversarial and prejudiced toward disabled folks.
They are selected to be the worst bullies and abusers and bigots they can find.
Even if it's IV meds that are your liquids, they'll maliciously tamper with ALL OF IT. We've had injectables ripped into by Security staff, left leaking, useless.
They couldn't care less.
Security WILL absolutely rip open, damage, maul, break, and GSR swab *everything*, regardless if you are immunocompromised or items are marked "sterile".
They will arbitrarily demand you "open up" a CPAP motor casing, when they aren't designed to be opened.
They will often confiscate refrigerator gel-packs for temperature sensitive meds, and they *do not care* if they destroy thousands of dollars worth of meds by doing so.
They do not care about *your* safety, or *your* medical needs.
They arbitrarily invent new ways to harass & harm all the time. They think it's "fun".
Security staff - ESPECIALLY US Security - detest disabled folks and will be rude, arrogant and assume you are stupid or a faker. They *will* make ableist, bigoted comments ("jokes") and will often deliberately pinch, bruise or trip disabled folks. Sometimes much worse.
Never EVER agree to a "private" search, they will assault you, or worse, your child.
The most you can do is *request* they change their filthy, disgusting gloves prior to mauling & contaminating sterile medical supplies - or you.
Most will laugh, and REFUSE to do so, of course, and then roll their eyes & ridicule you.
They will *absolutely* violate your dignity and your privacy by loudly questioning you about items.
It does NOT matter if you pre-book through "TSA Cares" (what a name 🙄) or anything else. You *will* be poorly treated and everything will be contaminated.
We travel extensively, and we know we must prepare for inevitable abuse by Security *every* time.
Even with Nexus cards.
Even as people with enhanced clearance.
They were even abusive to our disabled CHILD on her "Wish" trip with "Make-A-Wish".
She was visibly disabled & ill, and we were escorted by an airline guide, but Security were still abusive monsters, ripped into medical supplies, left massive bruises on her, and ruined much of her medical supplies.
That tells you what kind of people the Security staff really are.
Be prepared.
Question: Do you ever decorate cabin door? Now Carnival requiring “fire resistant “ decorations. Can you do a video for fire resistant cabin door decorations? Thanks
U are right on surge protectors ..if u are goinng to stay in a European hotel PLEASE bring a converter
When I travel outside North America, I bring an adapter to convert between different voltages and outlet configurations. Useful when staying in a local hotel. But the cruise ships I've been on (all Holland America Line) have standard 120 V outlets in the cabins. I think they may have a couple of other kinds of outlets, but if you need / want something other than 120 V North American outlets, check with the cruise line.
Via Rail and Greyhound Bus have definite weight restrictions. I'm sure we'll be fine if we're okay with those two.
You have saved me a lot of money from your store. I have bought many of the things that you have recommended. THANK YOU SO MUCH.
03/14/23@3:10pm.
When I go on holiday everybody else has blue ,black or grey luggage my suitcase is neon pink with reflective bands on the edges .
I'll never ever check my luggage again the 1st time i did it to to long for them to bring it. The cruise i just went on it was on the wrong side of the ship and my husbands watch was missing. They lost a lot of bags that day. Im good ill carry it on
I bought packing cubes about 5 years ago for my husband and me and, boy, were they a miracle for packing! And to be able to take the cube directly from the suitcase to the drawers/closets was so nice.
Nice!!
Packing cubes are for the win
I bought packing cubes this year for the first time. I used one for an overnight trip and it was a game changer! I am usually an over-packer and was able to fit everything in 1 tote bag and large hand bag. I'm a believer!
They also make unpacking a breeze!
I’m going on my first cruise soon and can’t wait! I’m usually anxious about over packing and then STILL forgetting stuff. This is so informative. Thanks 😅
I would like to see how you pack the packing cubes.
Awesome! I will put this on my video list to do before we cruise later this month
You CAN pack for a full week including formal wear in a carry on!!!! Done it several times. The big thing to limit is shoes. One pair sandals, one pair sneakers, one pair flats, 1 pair heels. We always fly(live in Ohio). Use small toiletries It can be done and then you can carry off luggage & get off first & don’t have to hunt for your luggage in the terminal which I hate. Mix and match clothing and coordinate colors. Trust me. It can be done
You need to talk with my wife. 1 luggage for makeup, 1 for shoes, 1 for clothes. This is just for her 😱😱😭😭😭😭😭
@@AM-dr9qd be happy to! I also don’t take all my makeup now that you mention it.
My 20-something daughter just reminded me she was in Europe, with only a backpack, for 2 months. She said if she could do that, I can pack with only a carryon. ;)
Glad to hear that you can primary a carry on. The rules were a bit confusing as we just booked our first cruise. I am used to traveling for up to a month at a time with just a backpack, so I will stick to just the carry on.
@@Subyspecialist enjoy. I am a huge fan of cruising.
What do people do to take wrinkles out of their clothing if they can't bring a steamer??
Great information, we tip our porter's 5 dollars per bag. We also use a porter's when we debark the ship. They get you passed all the lines.
Thanks for sharing 👏
1) do they allow selfie-stick? 2)others than alcohol and such hat cruise don’t allow, is there any gift or souvenirs that they don’t allow to bring back (similar to tsa rule about food, etc)
Just ordered the grey carry-on, luggage tag holder & packing cubes. Thanks for taking the time to compile all of this helpful information. I feel like i'm stalking all of your vids lol : )
Haha stalk away!! I’m so glad you like those items. That grey carry on bag is fabulous
I cannot find the type or size of transparent luggage tags you mentioned in the comments. Does anyone know which ones fit Holland America luggage tags?
THANK YOU FOR YOUR FANTASTIC CHANNEL
I travel with a European adapter on my cruises. Most cabins have both North American and European outlets and having the adapter allows me to have an extra North American outlet.
Super!!
Great idea!👏
As a general rule I don’t use packing cubes. I can fit more by rolling. The exception is my sweaters. They don’t roll well, and a compression cube does reduce the space they take. I pack in one carryon and one tote, for any cruise over 5 days. For 5 days or less I just pack in my large tote.
Same with me. I highly recommend this channel:
youtube.com/@organizing-tv?si=lZ9EET_m6uHw85N5
How do you pack for service dogs, ie dog food bowls beds?
My suitcase is plaid. Maybe not modern but an old classic.
I wish you would talk about bringing vitamin supplements on board. What are the rules a vitamin supplements on boarding.?
We always bring powerplug converters. Laptop, camera & something else all have AU plugs. SO, we carry a couple US to AU and EU to AU adapters and use all the available ship power points! Avoids power strips which RCI at least didn't accept on our first cruise with them (Hawaii to Brisbane). CMV didn't mind power strips but they were wiped out in the COVID shutdowns, pity.
This is my first cruise, but we really want to keep our luggage. We will have a late boarding
It should be fine but be prepared to sit at a bar for a while as everyone on the cruise is at the central elevators. If you are feeling strong, there are stairs next to the elevator that few people use.
Great tips, this will be my second cruise. Always good to hear other peoples tips. Thank you!
I take a travel electric kettle so light and a small as I also take my porlex coffee grinder to make my own coffee can I do this. It also saves me so much money
Illana, thank you for making these awesome videos! I know there’s somewhere I read that we’re supposed to take a selfie (and where does that go?) and do a health questionnaire and get the card with billing info on it. Who gives us those things? Cabin key? 🙃
That was a very interesting comment about not locking your bags that are given for scanning and then brought to your room. I am basically a non-trusting person and have always locked my bags just as I have when checking luggage at the airport. I can't think of anything I would put in my bag that would not be allowed. I never thought about it but I guess I would assume the checkers/scanners haves TSA lock keys so they can open the luggage. But then why would they have keys, those for TSA inspectors.
Have you ever been on MSC Cruise Line? We are leaving today and going on the seaside MSC line
Ilana I love your cruise channel and all the videos. My husband and I are first time cruisers and i am addicted to your channel. We have travelled a lot around the world but never a cruise. I start my day at work watching one or two of your episodes. I love the packing for a cruise. I was watching and could not find the water shoe link below. I found a lot of the other things which are a fantastic ideas as well, and linked them through my amazon account. Please let me know the link for the thin water shoes.
thanks a lot
Christine
Can we bring a kettle for hot water to drink ? We like to drink really hot water or black tea . This is my first cruise and on NCL PEARL
We have used your ultimate cruise planner for five cruises since the restart. We have also created our own personal electronics page. I keep meaning to send that to you. But we enjoy that it has warm weather packing list and a cold for the packing list. It helped us traveling in the Caribbean and Alex. Thank you for taking the time.
We usually do 2 US dollars per bag.
My first cruise is in June this year and we are flying to the port the day before. These videos help guide me to be efficient. Im packing for the cruise the same as flying so no checked bags.
We tip the porter $20 to ensure no issue with our luggage. Between my husband and I - we haveb2 regular suitcases and one carryon. We keep meds and document with us.
I don’t necessarily lock my luggage but I use sip ties to keep it zipped throughout the air travel but if it has to be accessed but the cruise line it can.
Leaving for Alaska Monday 🎉
One thing you can use for a iron is a jumbo curling iron, the largest you can get that has a high setting.
Celebrity cruises as of this moment 2024 March 18. There is no limit, but they ask for you to be respectful and you’re bringing such amount of luggage.
How much luggage can a guest bring onboard?
There is no limit or restrcition, however we recommend each guest carry a reasonable amount of personal property and limit the number of pieces they bring.
It's our first cruise and your suggestions really helped
I never knew about "not locking the luggage" and I am going to have those packing cubes on my next cruise. Thanks for sharing that information.
About not locking luggage... don't the cruise lines have the same key the TSA uses? We use TSA approved locks so security can still access it.
Even coach tours and flying tours have weight limits pet passenger.
I didn’t hear you mention, coffee, makers, or coffee makers that make iced coffee. Or iced coffee makers allowed on carnival?
Thank you about the tip on not locking the luggage bags. I always locked them without any problems but will leave the bags unlocked for my next cruise.
On my last cruise, I got called down to the holding area, or naughty room as you call it, because I had two empty plastic squirt guns. Royal Caribbean is wayyy too picky on things like that. Instead of purchasing them on the cruise or at a cruise stop, I bought them at the dollar store; to use on the private island. They took them anyway, and held them until disembarkation.
Wow! That’s an interesting one! Thanks for sharing
When you say carry-on is that the smaller roller suitcase? I bought a set of luggage that is a large and a small suitcase. I want to use the small roller, a large tote bag, and my purse. I don't want to check my bags. I don't want to go through that hassle and would rather just walk on and off with it all. I know I'll have to carry it all until my room is ready. I guess I'm asking if the small roller must be checked.
We use bright yellow ID tags we purchased from Amazon.
You are amazing I used to be a travel agent, so I do appreciate everything you teach and share
I like to roll my bags to the cruise instead of giving them to porters. Any size limit for carrying your own luggage to the room? I do appreciaeyour comments. Thank you so much for your videos.
I'm Australian, always need a convertor.
One clothing tip that I have is to bring as many “poly-blend” clothings as possible. They clean and dry easily.
Love your videos. Information is amazing
I got a really lovely tote bag from Mia Tui travel bag. I love it so much! It keeps everything organised and being able to slip over the suitcase handle is a major blessing! So much easier than a handbag and backpack. I can’t wait for my cruises.
I’ve heard these are great! I’m not sure if I’ve seen them sold where I live
@@LifeWellCruised I saw Emma (Emma Cruises) give a review on the packing cubes and bought them, then went back and got the bag. Mia Tui is in England but they do shipping to most countries including USA and Canada. I got the Jennie in Graphite and it’s just perfect!
We tip about $2-3 a bag depending on size of luggage.
What a gorgeous top!! (or dress, can’t tell)
On our first cruise, I didn't think of storing the suitcases under the bed. We had 2 large and I medium suitcase. Stored the medium in the large and put them in the closet with the life jackets.
FYI: the no surge power bar you have linked is surge protected.
Any more my usual belt is totally non-metalic and i put all my stuff in a fanny pack with my phone pouch mounted on the fanny pack belt, and do this for both flights and boarding so I can drop everything off the belt and nothing n my pockets for going through security.
“Cruise-casters” often tip us off the the fact that a cruise line will let us bring one bottle of wine per person on embarkation day. What is the rule about buying wine in ports of call and bringing that on board. Allowed? Disallowed? Allowed would make enjoying a glass on your balcony cheaper. And if allowed can you also have that uncorked at your table in the main fir dinner. And what is the general uncorking fee?
What about battery operated clothes steamer?
Some cruise lines will charge a corkage fee for wine brought on board regardless if you plan to open it yourself in your room. (Norwegian)
I actually have a little plastic pink flip flop on mine for Disembarkation Day.