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
Bought it, LOVE IT! We are frequent cruisers and the cruise planner (I print the lists we need for EACH cruise) is the first step in planning and packing. A really great resource - THANK YOU ILANA!
I always keep my toiletries and an extra charging cable packed in my carry-on, and immediately restock on my return home. I like to hope that I’ll meet a man that wants to whisk me away on the spur of the moment and I’ll be ready! 😂
I once forgot my daily asthma inhaler. It involved calling my doc, having them send the script to a CVS near our pre-cruise hotel, getting an UBER and so on. It was just additional stress I didn’t need. ALWAYS CHECK YOUR MEDS
I start my packing list months before my cruise. I also go through my day (in my head) and think about everything I use or wear throughout my day and write them down as I go. That way I don't skip anything. At least that works for me.
My tips are small sewing kit, small bag of bandages, foot blister pads. Antibiotic cream. Small flashlight with extra batteries. Container of Q tips. Dental floss and pics. Cleaning cloth for all electronics. Eyeglass cleaner and special cloth. Pkg of Personal Wipes. Earache medication. Oil of Cloves for dental issues. Small pr of scissors. Emery board, and nail clippers. Straps for luggage incase the zipper malfunctions. Ginger chews ( Chimes). Container of assorted safety pins. Reflective tape to mark safe passage to washroom during the night. Or bring a couple of nightlights. Wine bottle opener. Pkg of toilet seat covers when doing excursions. Thank you for all your educational videos. Greetings from seasoned travellers in Baden Ontario ( near KW).
OMG Thank you!!! My husband and I are going on an NCL cruise in 32 days! I just bought 100 shares of NCL. Thank you! Now we will have a $100 onboard credit!!! Oops... this was suppsed to be posted on the last video I watched... lol but, still might help someone else to know shareholders get an onboard credit on cruises.
I went on my first solo cruise in early December. I thought I had everything taken care of, prepaid for as much as I possibly could. I made a list and checked it thrice. I flew to Houston, stayed at the hotel at the airport. I paid for cruise line airport transfers both ways. As I was checking in at the hotel I was asked "Will you be using the card on file?" All of the sudden it hit me like a ton of bricks. I did not transfer any credit cards from my every day wallet to my passport wallet. I had cash, but not a single card. "Yes please, I will be using that card." Pretty unnerving at first, but luckily I never needed to use a credit card at all during the cruise, or on the trip back home. I will never make that mistake again.
With regard to bringing an extra change of clothing in our bag we carry on the ship, hubby and I divide our clothing amongst two different bags. This way if one bag is lost we each have some clothing for the trip.
We've done that since our honeymoon cruise when one of hubby's bags got left behind at the airport by the cruise line. We had booked air travel through the cruise line, so they had said that they would take care of the luggage transfer. We saw his suitcase sitting there by the luggage carousel with other bags that were going on the cruise with us, including my bag. We're from Phoenix and were cruising in Alaska for our honeymoon in June. Hubby just about froze for those first couple of days before his suitcase showed up since he started out in desert wear.
I didn’t check my shoes, the white ones to wear with formal wear. Got to Nassau with two different shoes but I wore them anyways as they were close enough in height. The long dress covered my feet enough. That was more than thirty year ago and still remember it and I have checked my shoes every vacation afterwards. And still have a good laugh about it.
A poor man at one dinner table looked so board. Turned out that he forgot his hearing aid batteries. I had many extras so shared. The next night he was so happy.
I forgot my prescription meds (anxiety and blood pressure). I went to the medical center and got a few blood pressure medication tablets (very common), but my anxiety was over the top! I had a drink and then spent time in my cabin meditating to get relief. Now, I always keep 2 weeks worth of meds in my personal item bag packed and ready to go.
On our annual vacations to Maui, my husband has forgotten his bathing suits, sunglasses and dry fit underwear. Luckily we have Amazon Prime membership and were able to have forgotten items mailed to our timeshare.
Our last cruise, my husband forgot our passport at home on the table. Not a big deal for him because we did bring our birth certificates too, but for me, It was a big deal because I changed my name, so my name on my ID doesnt match my birth certificate. Thank God for my dad. He paid over $50 to have my passport over-nighted through FedEx to the hotel we were staying.
Forgetting my makeup was my my nightmare. I couldn’t find anything similar on the ship but settled for something. My husband packed his suit for formal night but forgot his sock. Eight years ago, men didn’t go without socks. 😂
Just fyi I send TONS of people to your page and they all tell me how much they love you,I have to remind them I don't know you lol but everyone loves you
I didn't forget anything but. My dry shampoo got sprayed out during the flight. All over everything that it was with. When I got on the cruise ship. They didn't have any for sale. Every port we went to didn't have any so. Needless to sad to live without my dry shampoo for 7 days.
I always pack a pair of underpants, a nightie, a pair of capris if going somewhere warm, a swimsuit, a T-shirt, and a pair of sandals in my carry-on (I used a backpack) so if my luggage gets lost or misplaced, I can survive a couple days. I travel in long, knit pants and a long sleeved cardigan, and tennis shoes because I'm always cold on a plane.
We just got back from a cruise on RC’s Oasis to Bahamas and here are some items we were glad to pack that we definitely needed or came in handy: large beach tote, extra sunscreen/aloe, waterproof lanyard pouches, extra underwear, bathing suit coverup’s, small cross-shoulder purse or a Fanny pack, facial moisturizer, wet ones wipes, Febreeze, water shoes, zipper up jacket, mini first aid kit, Lysol, extra bathing suits!! Thank you for this channel IIlana. You’re fabulous.
My retirement cruise in 2016. Had not had a period since 2013. You guessed it...period started on the first day on the ship! I was shocked and certainly unprepared!!! Ship shop was ready at 4 times the cost, but I would have gladly paid any price. 😳 Besides that, it was a lovely cruise. 😄
I am going on first cruise in May. I thank you for reminding me to bring flipup sunglasses for my glasses, I already have extra cables for charging phones, eBooks and electronics, but when you mentioned camera it made me remember to pack the battery charger for my Canon. Now as to toothbrush - you may want to expand that one. Not everyone still has their natural chompers. Some of us elderly ones especially are "gummers". We need to bring the denture cup for soaking at night AND some of the denture cleaning solution! Oh, yeah, don't forget that denture adhesive if you use it. I doubt they sell it anywhere onboard and probably not within reasonable shopping distance in any port-of-call. This is something you may want to really share with your viewers.
I wear retainers at night to keep my teeth straight and I have to always remember to pack my retainers and the case to put them in. I also like to use the denture cleaner tablets for my retainers.
I never ever pack without a packing list regardless of where I'm going and for how long. I'm not going on my next cruise until March 2023 and my packing list is already done! Fortunately, I have never forgotten anything in all my years of traveling. I consider myself lucky! :-)
Fortunately I haven't forgotten to bring anything important. I think packing too far in advance, or packing at the last minute contributes to forgotten items. I always begin packing 2-3 days before departure.
The hubs forgot his bathing suit on a land trip to a lake. We thought we would just pick up a new one for him, but as it was August, none of the stores had bathing suits, they were big on back to school. He wound up using a pair of shorts for a bathing suit.
Only packed black bras on a cruise! A real problem for light colored tops. We were in Europe several ports later before I could find a light colored bra!
Your list is great! There is a specific thing that I have forgotten (and more than once through the years), although it falls under the charge cables category: The special cable to charge your watch. Most devices have universal cables that are easy to find, even on a ship, but the cable for a smartwatch, Fitbit or Apple Watch is not.
Soooo.. Sort of funny story... My husband and I were watching this video. We're getting ready to go on an upcoming cruise. He and I both looked at each other, we need to order his prescription refills... Yikes, we almost forgot! Why I love your videos... It's not just about making a list, it's about making an actually useful list. ❤️📃 We appreciate it.
Scissors and sticky tape came in very handy. On the other hand, I decided not to bother with 'black tie' nights and that I'd scrub round it, not realising that it would limit me to the buffet on those nights which was far from ideal.
My last cruise I left my meds and water bottle. Good thing I got to Florida the day before. I immediately contacted my doctor and he was able to send it to a pharmacy and I was able to pick it up before embarkation. I wound up causing myself additional stress and expense.
I have ocd so I have a list of items to pack and since I cruise in December it's easier to just toss summer items in the luggage but I have packing list it's a great thing to have ...safe cruising
We bought a bunch of new clothes about 3 months before the cruise. We neatly put and hung the new stuff in our closet. Finally time came to pack, we were in a bit of a hurry and forgot about all the new clothes 😮....at least they were at home and not lost by the airline...which brings me to another fiasco....took the kids years ago to Disney World for Xmas...the airline lost all of our suitcases with new and old clothes. Had to buy new😢...one year later, almost to the day, I got a call while at a Xmas party, the airline found my bags and wanted to deliver them to the house😅🎉Hard to believe but true. What a surprise ....love the videos you do, cruising in Sept...RC
I forgot my cane and no where to buy one in the airport or at a shop on the cruise. I use the cane to go from my mobile scooter to a chair. I mentioned this to an Effy employ. Later that evening he brought a cane for me at no charge!
I have a great packing list. Didn’t stop me from leaving my phone in my car at the airport. I survived with my tablet for the ship app and my back up printed copies of my documents.
Take photo shots on your phone of each outfit you plan to wear, this ware you can mix n match and condense your outfits also when packing you won’t forget what to pack
I’m going on my first like cruise as an adult without my family and I’m so excited. I’m definitely an overpacker and I love to have everything prepared. I’ve been binging your videos just to be sure I’ve got all my ducks in a row ❤️❤️
One thing that has helped me is to set a basket aside and add things I don't want to forget as I think of it. Obviously, you can't do that with every day items, but there are always things specific to cruising that can be added. Also, for me, a checklist is essential.
I have to admit I have never forgotten anything. I start weeks in advance and start with medications. I only take with me what I need for the time I am away. Next comes shampoo and cream rinse then the razor and moisturizer. I carry small containers. I always over pack and learning not to. I don’t need to bring everything in my closet or medicine cabinet. Love your cruise essential list. You do a great job of being informative. Thank you.
If you forget your body moisture..simply before you get out of the shower use your hair conditioner for a body wash rise..this worked great for my skin tone❤
Love this video... 3 things I forgot hair brush and hair tie with I borrowed from my grandmother who lives by the port. The last item was once I got on the cruise I realize I didn't bring a perfume or body spray. 🙃😁 Making a leaving checklist and checking it before you leave home is a great 💡 idea.
Since we travel pretty often (leisure)we actually have travel stuff permanently in the luggage *toiletry bag (restocked after each trip) *beach towels *bathing suits *charging station/wires *slippers/sandals (just for room)
We are going on our first time cruise in 2025, BUT as a frequent traveler I have learned some things, and as a result I have a travel hygiene bag that NOTHING comes out of. I keep a travel hair brush, toothbrush, meds in container I restock after each trip, mini size items, quips, razor, nail items, hair ties, a comb, everything I need I keep a second in there that doesn't come out u less it's for refills, then goes RIGHT BACK. I also have a charger for travel and a laundry bag for travel that stay in the suitcase permanently bc we have forgotten something too many 😅
Not on a cruise, but on land trips, but I’ve forgotten important things before and had to go out and buy. On one trip, I packed a makeup bag but left it in my bathroom at home. Didn’t realize it until I was unpacking at the hotel. I was in Las Vegas without a rental car, so it was a pain to get to a store to buy a few makeup essentials. The other time, I left the garment bag with my nice dress and heels hanging in my closet at home. I had reservations at a fine dining restaurant during the trip so I couldn’t get away with wearing shorts and a casual dress. I had to buy a new dress and shoes while on vacation which got a bit expensive.
It's a tradition someone in the party forgets something. In April, I forgot to put a memory card in my GoPro and didn't realize it until I was harnessed up in my zipline! I've also forgotten shoes and my formal dress!
I splurged and bought your Amazon charger case and an extra charger for everything I my carry one bag. Mbring now that case and chargers stay in my carry on bag ready to go and never left home
With my meds and travel, I make a point to go to the chemist/pharmacist and get prescribed and over-the-counter meds all at once, so that I can a) pack them in my little meds bag and b) have them in their original pckaging and with my name on them incase I'm asked what they are
I pack ahead. I always get brand new toiletries and pop them straight in my case. Then I don’t have to worry about forgetting a toothbrush, shampoo/conditioner or soaps. I’m allergic to most brands so if I forget these, it’s not an easy fix.
I have set up a list in reminders on my phone. I then have it for every cruise of trip away. You can mark off the items as you pack and restore them again when you’re ready for the next cruise.
Items I’ve left behind (and not just when cruising) - a credit card to put on file (I don’t carry them in my every day wallet) - ear plugs (cabin and hotel walls are thin; hallways are loud and busy) - socks or slippers for cabin/hotel room - hat - special bras/undies for formal wear
I have a detailed list on a phone app with an option to check it off as I have packed each item. This works well for me. Once I ran out of contact solution and had to stop in a store in Puerto Rico. I now bring enough to last a full trip. I also lost my flip flops on the upper deck (the wind blew them off) Since then I bring an extra pair!
I'll share this tip that works for me. I leave an empty Rx bottle for every med I take in my travel pouch which I leave in my suitcase...when I pack I fill the bottles ...works for me
I have not been on a cruise yet first time next year,but I have been on several holidays with my hubby and 3 children and what I do is write a packing list for each person then another list for all the other bits I need and I can honestly say I have never forgot a thing so have been lucky
I purchased and downloaded your cruise planner 4 months ago. I’ve been using it like crazy. We are going on a cruise in August and I feel fully prepared. I love your videos, thank you so much :)
I don't typically wear sandals nor flip flops, but you certainly do need them if you're going to the pool. so of course I didn't pack any even though I own some. I just totally forgot. I was so happy when I went to Florida the day before the cruise. a quick trip to Walmart for one pair of flip-flops. awesome one time I forgot to pay act a sleeping mask . you never know exactly how dark or how light a room is going to be on a cruise ship or even in a hotel . my husband on the other hand over time he has either forgotten his reading material, sunglasses and charging cables.
My one suggestion is to bring samples of everything..shampoo,conditioner,skin creams,make up,etc I have saved a ton of these samples just for trips..hope this helps for those that are packing right now like me..
Years ago my father learned the hard way that medications go in your carry on, not your checked luggage. He flew from NYC to Miami. The plane continued on to a destination in South America. His luggage made the trip to South America.
I'm lost without lists! Also I've learned that if I keep things in small piles, rather than spread out, I'm less likely to forget things & I keep & take my packing list with me... I check it once when I pack to go, and a second time when we pack again to go home.
Always use your ziplock bags Extra large Medium and small bring extra ones easy to pack toothpaste and toothbrush and all your makeup lip gloss and deodorant and roll on perfume !! Your tips are very helpful!! This is my 18 times cruising and it’s still fun to read your tips!!!Learn something new everyday!!
I love your videos, Ilana. Twice had med problems due to forgetting. I remembered to bring the meds both times. In one experience I just packed the small pill containers in a bag without paying attention to how much was in them. I didn’t know I was short on one med til a couple days later. I only went 2 days without it and health was ok, but it added a lot of stress. I now use a pill-minder to have the am and pm pills for each day in a compartment for a week. If it’s a longer cruise, I add those extra days. I also bring an extra day of meds with me because once we had to stay overnight at a hotel after landing at our airport because of a winter storm. I had not brought extras because it was a 1 hour drive home. Long night! So double checking meds ( and remembering to pack them) before a cruise is vitally important!
I have done 35 cruises plus I have forgotten my toothbrush …in the past I have forgotten… my underwear panties …in the past and the most recent thing I have forgotten… was feminine hygiene products …that I needed and could not find actually on the cruise ship. I spent the entire day in the Port of Anchorage with my husband walking the streets looking for feminine hygiene products which were extremely hard to find ..especially since the bus dropped us off in the middle of the financial banking district in Anchorage and there was absolutely no stores around …after walking for an hour and a half we finally found a tiny little similar to a 7-Eleven store that I paid five times the price for !!but it was definitely worth it in the end!! I will never forget to pack anything again my husband has a new packing list and I have a also new packing list and we have both different items on there and we share them both right before we close up the suitcases.! Another reason why we always go at least 24 hours in advance to a cruise port. And try to find the nearest store to purchase whatever we did not bring with us or actually we forgot. Sometimes you pay a definite higher price but it is worth it in your peace of mind just to have the product you forgot with you in your cabin. Always make a list. And check it twice. Lol
Being an optician I hear horror stories about people loosing their perscription glasses. The most frequent loss happens in the xray machines during security checks. Please remember to stow your glasses in a case and not just set them in the scanning bins.
My husband forgot one of his diabetes meds last year. We have mail order prescriptions so he was able to have them mail a replacement to our hotel. If you use Walgreens or CVS you can go to one and have them give you at least enough to cover the duration of your trip. Of course, your situation was probably different because you were in a different country and you were cruising. I just thought this information might be helpful for someone who might not be aware of this possibility. I enjoy your videos.
My husband forgot his contacts. No problem! He got them from Sam's Club so we should be able to walk into any Walmart with an eye doctor and Sams's should be able to send over the prescription information. Whups! Not so easy! His prescription was 3 days out of date. Legally Sam's could not transfer the information. Now he has to get a whole new eye exam, that morning, before we were supposed to board. We manages to get to the ship with about 20 minutes to spare.
I almost didn’t watch this because we flew into Ft Lauderdale today and will cruise tomorrow! Luckily my husband and I have all of the things on your list! Thank you for all of the wonderful videos that got us to this point.
I am packing for our next cruise right now. One time I also forgot my big round hair brush for a cruise. Packed it!! But took it out the morning of and left it on the sink. I have long hair like yours, and the BIG round hair brush is a must.
The thing I forgot on a cruise is the reason why I started packing by a list for whatever trip I go on. We were leaving out of Port Canaveral but going to Disney before the cruise. Thankfully, we checked in the hotel and were about to head to Disney and I realized I forgot my underwear. THe only pair I had, I had on my body. We had to stop by Walmart before going to see Mickey Mouse. Since then, underwear is the first thing that goes into my bag.
My mom has dementia. Despite our best efforts, she still didn’t pack pyjamas or a toothbrush. Luckily, I had two sets of PJs and toothbrushes are easy to find. Edit: I did not bring hair conditioner because I liked the Princess brand (10 years ago), but looks like they no longer have separate shampoo and conditioner- it’s a combo. If you like a separate hair conditioner, bring it on Princess cruises!
Packing and packing lists are my favorite lol. I’m always overpacking for any scenario, except for one cruise…. I forgot my husbands dress shoes! Thankfully we were able to rent some, but he will never let me live it down! Needless to say I haven’t forgotten them since!
Too funny!!! that you say “you forgot to pack your husband’s dress shoes. “ My husband packs his own suitcase! and I pack my own suitcase and together we pack a small one of items we use together. None of that i packed his and he packed mine issue. If he forgot his dress shoes that’s on him. I don’t think it’s on you. FYI
My boyfriend and I pack our own suitcases but I take responsibility for both of our boarding documents since the email comes to me. Me being the over packer and over thinker that I am always uses a packing list and has my suitcases packed a couple days prior. My boyfriend on the other hand packs the night before (he’s even packed the morning of one some trips) with no packing list. If he forgets something thats on him, I always tell him to pack earlier to make sure he has everything. I’m making sure I have what I need and make sure all our travel documents are current and packed and ready to go, he just needs to be responsible for his own stuff. He’s a grown adult
I love it that you say you forgot his dress shoes? Is he an adult does he not know how to pack his own dress shoes? It reminds me of once when my husband said I forgot to pack his suit jackets for a trip. I called him an idiot because then I asked him did you pack my bras lol as an adult these are things you should remember on your own not rely on someone else whether you were married or not.
Hi Elainer, my wife and I going on our first cruise ( first time cancelled because of covid) so we're really looking forward to it. Your videos are great thank you for doing them such a great help 😊
Now a days take 30 days worth of medication weather your medication is an otc or an rx. Also bring a copy of your prescription from your doctor. Many pharmacies will fill a prescription from another dr in a foreign country as long as it is on tamper proof paper ( with restrictions ). If you get to a foreign country and have a problem do not forget your embassy/consulate.
I use a cpap. When I packed it I left out the piece that attaches the mask to the hose. Luckily there was a medical supply store that was open on Saturday. Unluckily they did not carry the same brand. I had to buy a whole new face mask. That was a lesson learned the hard way to the tune of $150.
I’m really good at packing for a trip (because I pack ahead of time) and really terrible for packing for work. Since I work in a pool I’ve often forgotten underwear 😜. I’ve also forgotten to pack a tshirt or a jumper. One time I forgot to pack jeans or track pants. I’ve forgotten my towel on numerous occasions and one unfortunate time a few weeks ago when it was quite cold and rainy - I forgot to pack street clothes altogether and had to go home in wet bathers and a towel.
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
Bought it, LOVE IT! We are frequent cruisers and the cruise planner (I print the lists we need for EACH cruise) is the first step in planning and packing. A really great resource - THANK YOU ILANA!
@@lbretta8665 I’m so glad the Ultimate Cruise Planner has been helpful, especially as experienced cruisers! Thanks for your purchase and comments :)
I just bought the cruise planner.😊
@@slmarti359 thanks for your purchase! Enjoy and happy planning 🛳😊
I got it and ❤️ it!! Also your videos and non-judgmental attitude is just the BEST.
nail file, tweezers, nail clippers, small sewing kit, and a small first aid kit
If you are traveling with a girl past the age of nine always pack a period pouch for her just incase it happens while you are away.
Forgot to add this to my list. Always pack a thermometer in case of fevers. “ It’s the nurse in me.” 😉
Yep! I always have a stocked first aid and med kit! That's the nurse in me.
I always keep my toiletries and an extra charging cable packed in my carry-on, and immediately restock on my return home. I like to hope that I’ll meet a man that wants to whisk me away on the spur of the moment and I’ll be ready! 😂
Me too! LOL
I never know when I feel the need to get away for a weekend, or on a cruise. My essentials are always ready! Even if I'm just by myself!
Forgot bras, rushed to Target in Cairns before boarding a Great Barrier Reef cruise. Totally different sizing system in Oz, btw.
I once forgot my daily asthma inhaler. It involved calling my doc, having them send the script to a CVS near our pre-cruise hotel, getting an UBER and so on. It was just additional stress I didn’t need. ALWAYS CHECK YOUR MEDS
I start my packing list months before my cruise. I also go through my day (in my head) and think about everything I use or wear throughout my day and write them down as I go. That way I don't skip anything. At least that works for me.
Smart!
I do the same
Ditto. I pack two weeks before and i still forget stuff.😏
I do the same
My tips are small sewing kit, small bag of bandages, foot blister pads. Antibiotic cream. Small flashlight with extra batteries. Container of Q tips. Dental floss and pics. Cleaning cloth for all electronics. Eyeglass cleaner and special cloth. Pkg of Personal Wipes. Earache medication. Oil of Cloves for dental issues. Small pr of scissors. Emery board, and nail clippers. Straps for luggage incase the zipper malfunctions. Ginger chews ( Chimes).
Container of assorted safety pins. Reflective tape to mark safe passage to washroom during the night. Or bring a couple of nightlights.
Wine bottle opener. Pkg of toilet seat covers when doing excursions.
Thank you for all your educational videos. Greetings from seasoned travellers in Baden Ontario ( near KW).
OMG Thank you!!! My husband and I are going on an NCL cruise in 32 days! I just bought 100 shares of NCL. Thank you! Now we will have a $100 onboard credit!!! Oops... this was suppsed to be posted on the last video I watched... lol but, still might help someone else to know shareholders get an onboard credit on cruises.
I went on my first solo cruise in early December. I thought I had everything taken care of, prepaid for as much as I possibly could. I made a list and checked it thrice. I flew to Houston, stayed at the hotel at the airport. I paid for cruise line airport transfers both ways. As I was checking in at the hotel I was asked "Will you be using the card on file?" All of the sudden it hit me like a ton of bricks. I did not transfer any credit cards from my every day wallet to my passport wallet. I had cash, but not a single card. "Yes please, I will be using that card." Pretty unnerving at first, but luckily I never needed to use a credit card at all during the cruise, or on the trip back home. I will never make that mistake again.
Oh my!! Lol it’s a good thing you prepaid all you did. Thanks for sharing
With regard to bringing an extra change of clothing in our bag we carry on the ship, hubby and I divide our clothing amongst two different bags. This way if one bag is lost we each have some clothing for the trip.
Solid advice
I never thought of that. Brilliant
We also do that especially when flying.
We've done that since our honeymoon cruise when one of hubby's bags got left behind at the airport by the cruise line. We had booked air travel through the cruise line, so they had said that they would take care of the luggage transfer. We saw his suitcase sitting there by the luggage carousel with other bags that were going on the cruise with us, including my bag. We're from Phoenix and were cruising in Alaska for our honeymoon in June. Hubby just about froze for those first couple of days before his suitcase showed up since he started out in desert wear.
I didn’t check my shoes, the white ones to wear with formal wear. Got to Nassau with two different shoes but I wore them anyways as they were close enough in height. The long dress covered my feet enough. That was more than thirty year ago and still remember it and I have checked my shoes every vacation afterwards. And still have a good laugh about it.
I was so happy I brought an extra pair of my contact lens because one of mine flew off on the balcony :'D
A poor man at one dinner table looked so board. Turned out that he forgot his hearing aid batteries. I had many extras so shared. The next night he was so happy.
oh thats a nice story :)
I forgot my prescription meds (anxiety and blood pressure). I went to the medical center and got a few blood pressure medication tablets (very common), but my anxiety was over the top! I had a drink and then spent time in my cabin meditating to get relief. Now, I always keep 2 weeks worth of meds in my personal item bag packed and ready to go.
On our annual vacations to Maui, my husband has forgotten his bathing suits, sunglasses and dry fit underwear. Luckily we have Amazon Prime membership and were able to have forgotten items mailed to our timeshare.
Our last cruise, my husband forgot our passport at home on the table.
Not a big deal for him because we did bring our birth certificates too, but for me, It was a big deal because I changed my name, so my name on my ID doesnt match my birth certificate.
Thank God for my dad. He paid over $50 to have my passport over-nighted through FedEx to the hotel we were staying.
My daughter forgot lip balm and had to buy a $6 tube of chapstick, lol! Bring one with SPF, lips burn too!
Forgetting my makeup was my my nightmare. I couldn’t find anything similar on the ship but settled for something. My husband packed his suit for formal night but forgot his sock. Eight years ago, men didn’t go without socks. 😂
That's better than forgetting underwear! My nephew only packed 2 pairs besides the one he had on last time!
@@elouise5593 🤣🤣🤣
Just fyi I send TONS of people to your page and they all tell me how much they love you,I have to remind them I don't know you lol but everyone loves you
I downloaded your cruise planner and it's amazing. It helps a lot thank you.
I didn't forget anything but. My dry shampoo got sprayed out during the flight. All over everything that it was with. When I got on the cruise ship. They didn't have any for sale. Every port we went to didn't have any so. Needless to sad to live without my dry shampoo for 7 days.
I always pack a pair of underpants, a nightie, a pair of capris if going somewhere warm, a swimsuit, a T-shirt, and a pair of sandals in my carry-on (I used a backpack) so if my luggage gets lost or misplaced, I can survive a couple days. I travel in long, knit pants and a long sleeved cardigan, and tennis shoes because I'm always cold on a plane.
Add a lightweight packable dress, and you're set.
We just got back from a cruise on RC’s Oasis to Bahamas and here are some items we were glad to pack that we definitely needed or came in handy: large beach tote, extra sunscreen/aloe, waterproof lanyard pouches, extra underwear, bathing suit coverup’s, small cross-shoulder purse or a Fanny pack, facial moisturizer, wet ones wipes, Febreeze, water shoes, zipper up jacket, mini first aid kit, Lysol, extra bathing suits!! Thank you for this channel IIlana. You’re fabulous.
My retirement cruise in 2016. Had not had a period since 2013. You guessed it...period started on the first day on the ship! I was shocked and certainly unprepared!!! Ship shop was ready at 4 times the cost, but I would have gladly paid any price. 😳 Besides that, it was a lovely cruise. 😄
I am going on first cruise in May. I thank you for reminding me to bring flipup sunglasses for my glasses, I already have extra cables for charging phones, eBooks and electronics, but when you mentioned camera it made me remember to pack the battery charger for my Canon.
Now as to toothbrush - you may want to expand that one. Not everyone still has their natural chompers. Some of us elderly ones especially are "gummers". We need to bring the denture cup for soaking at night AND some of the denture cleaning solution! Oh, yeah, don't forget that denture adhesive if you use it. I doubt they sell it anywhere onboard and probably not within reasonable shopping distance in any port-of-call. This is something you may want to really share with your viewers.
I wear retainers at night to keep my teeth straight and I have to always remember to pack my retainers and the case to put them in. I also like to use the denture cleaner tablets for my retainers.
I forget pajamas all the time. I always watch these type of videos before every cruise. I was reminded and packed them. I had already closed my bag
I never ever pack without a packing list regardless of where I'm going and for how long. I'm not going on my next cruise until March 2023 and my packing list is already done! Fortunately, I have never forgotten anything in all my years of traveling. I consider myself lucky! :-)
My husband once forgot his pants for dinner. Went to Ross got some in Miami. Pays to go at least a day early.
One of my recurring dreams is that I forgot to take my camera on a vacation and am trying to find a place to buy one.
I have a travel kit that I keep “loaded” with essential products. It reduces a lot of the stress of packing.
Don’t forget your underwear like I did on my last cruise. 😂 I only had my really nice special occasion ones with me. Fun times.
Fortunately I haven't forgotten to bring anything important. I think packing too far in advance, or packing at the last minute contributes to forgotten items. I always begin packing 2-3 days before departure.
Don't forget to get an air tag to place inside of your checked suitcase this way you can track it
The hubs forgot his bathing suit on a land trip to a lake. We thought we would just pick up a new one for him, but as it was August, none of the stores had bathing suits, they were big on back to school. He wound up using a pair of shorts for a bathing suit.
Only packed black bras on a cruise! A real problem for light colored tops. We were in Europe several ports later before I could find a light colored bra!
Your list is great! There is a specific thing that I have forgotten (and more than once through the years), although it falls under the charge cables category: The special cable to charge your watch. Most devices have universal cables that are easy to find, even on a ship, but the cable for a smartwatch, Fitbit or Apple Watch is not.
So true. I forgot my fitbit charger. No fun!
Yep. Fitbit charger, and impossible to find another to buy..
Soooo.. Sort of funny story... My husband and I were watching this video. We're getting ready to go on an upcoming cruise. He and I both looked at each other, we need to order his prescription refills... Yikes, we almost forgot! Why I love your videos... It's not just about making a list, it's about making an actually useful list. ❤️📃 We appreciate it.
Scissors and sticky tape came in very handy. On the other hand, I decided not to bother with 'black tie' nights and that I'd scrub round it, not realising that it would limit me to the buffet on those nights which was far from ideal.
I always keep about a week's worth of medication in my cosmetic case in case I forget to pack them.
Was using my phone for GPS and left it still in the holder . Best week cruise ever . Lucky my wife had to take all the pictures lol
My last cruise I left my meds and water bottle. Good thing I got to Florida the day before. I immediately contacted my doctor and he was able to send it to a pharmacy and I was able to pick it up before embarkation. I wound up causing myself additional stress and expense.
I have ocd so I have a list of items to pack and since I cruise in December it's easier to just toss summer items in the luggage but I have packing list it's a great thing to have ...safe cruising
We bought a bunch of new clothes about 3 months before the cruise. We neatly put and hung the new stuff in our closet. Finally time came to pack, we were in a bit of a hurry and forgot about all the new clothes 😮....at least they were at home and not lost by the airline...which brings me to another fiasco....took the kids years ago to Disney World for Xmas...the airline lost all of our suitcases with new and old clothes. Had to buy new😢...one year later, almost to the day, I got a call while at a Xmas party, the airline found my bags and wanted to deliver them to the house😅🎉Hard to believe but true. What a surprise ....love the videos you do, cruising in Sept...RC
I forgot my cane and no where to buy one in the airport or at a shop on the cruise. I use the cane to go from my mobile scooter to a chair. I mentioned this to an Effy employ. Later that evening he brought a cane for me at no charge!
I have a great packing list. Didn’t stop me from leaving my phone in my car at the airport. I survived with my tablet for the ship app and my back up printed copies of my documents.
Take photo shots on your phone of each outfit you plan to wear, this ware you can mix n match and condense your outfits also when packing you won’t forget what to pack
I’m going on my first like cruise as an adult without my family and I’m so excited. I’m definitely an overpacker and I love to have everything prepared. I’ve been binging your videos just to be sure I’ve got all my ducks in a row ❤️❤️
One thing that has helped me is to set a basket aside and add things I don't want to forget as I think of it. Obviously, you can't do that with every day items, but there are always things specific to cruising that can be added. Also, for me, a checklist is essential.
I do the same thing, I keep a list in there of things I still need or need to grab last minute too.
I have to admit I have never forgotten anything. I start weeks in advance and start with medications. I only take with me what I need for the time I am away. Next comes shampoo and cream rinse then the razor and moisturizer. I carry small containers. I always over pack and learning not to. I don’t need to bring everything in my closet or medicine cabinet. Love your cruise essential list. You do a great job of being informative. Thank you.
If you forget your body moisture..simply before you get out of the shower use your hair conditioner for a body wash rise..this worked great for my skin tone❤
Love this video... 3 things I forgot hair brush and hair tie with I borrowed from my grandmother who lives by the port. The last item was once I got on the cruise I realize I didn't bring a perfume or body spray. 🙃😁 Making a leaving checklist and checking it before you leave home is a great 💡 idea.
Since we travel pretty often (leisure)we actually have travel stuff permanently in the luggage
*toiletry bag (restocked after each trip)
*beach towels
*bathing suits
*charging station/wires
*slippers/sandals (just for room)
Love you're remainders very much appreciated ☺️ going May 6❤️
We are going on our first time cruise in 2025, BUT as a frequent traveler I have learned some things, and as a result I have a travel hygiene bag that NOTHING comes out of. I keep a travel hair brush, toothbrush, meds in container I restock after each trip, mini size items, quips, razor, nail items, hair ties, a comb, everything I need I keep a second in there that doesn't come out u less it's for refills, then goes RIGHT BACK. I also have a charger for travel and a laundry bag for travel that stay in the suitcase permanently bc we have forgotten something too many 😅
Not on a cruise, but on land trips, but I’ve forgotten important things before and had to go out and buy. On one trip, I packed a makeup bag but left it in my bathroom at home. Didn’t realize it until I was unpacking at the hotel. I was in Las Vegas without a rental car, so it was a pain to get to a store to buy a few makeup essentials. The other time, I left the garment bag with my nice dress and heels hanging in my closet at home. I had reservations at a fine dining restaurant during the trip so I couldn’t get away with wearing shorts and a casual dress. I had to buy a new dress and shoes while on vacation which got a bit expensive.
It's a tradition someone in the party forgets something. In April, I forgot to put a memory card in my GoPro and didn't realize it until I was harnessed up in my zipline! I've also forgotten shoes and my formal dress!
Oh no!! I’m sure the memory card thing must happen for others too
Emory board or nail file.
Perfect timing!! Currently packing for our first cruise. Flying out tomorrow, sailing next week!
I have a plastic storage bin for travel items. As I see things I might need, I just dump them all in the bin until time to pack.
I like how you have your things put in another room that was alot of help thank you
I splurged and bought your Amazon charger case and an extra charger for everything I my carry one bag. Mbring now that case and chargers stay in my carry on bag ready to go and never left home
With my meds and travel, I make a point to go to the chemist/pharmacist and get prescribed and over-the-counter meds all at once, so that I can a) pack them in my little meds bag and b) have them in their original pckaging and with my name on them incase I'm asked what they are
I used to work for the US Dept of State.
Please do not put your passport in your checked luggage
I pack ahead. I always get brand new toiletries and pop them straight in my case. Then I don’t have to worry about forgetting a toothbrush, shampoo/conditioner or soaps. I’m allergic to most brands so if I forget these, it’s not an easy fix.
I have set up a list in reminders on my phone. I then have it for every cruise of trip away. You can mark off the items as you pack and restore them again when you’re ready for the next cruise.
Items I’ve left behind (and not just when cruising)
- a credit card to put on file (I don’t carry them in my every day wallet)
- ear plugs (cabin and hotel walls are thin; hallways are loud and busy)
- socks or slippers for cabin/hotel room
- hat
- special bras/undies for formal wear
I have a detailed list on a phone app with an option to check it off as I have packed each item. This works well for me. Once I ran out of contact solution and had to stop in a store in Puerto Rico. I now bring enough to last a full trip. I also lost my flip flops on the upper deck (the wind blew them off) Since then I bring an extra pair!
At least they have a lot of the same stores in PR!
Used to travel a lot in previous jobs and made up a list that I change for every trip. Basically you need your passport and a credit card.
I didn’t think about a jacket and I was cold every night at dinner and on the ship entirely
Traveling for many years but still make a packing list. The outfits I pack are a theme of 3 colors so I can change outfits around and pack less shoes
Brilliant!!
Me too. Black, white, and a color. Mix and match everything!
I'll share this tip that works for me. I leave an empty Rx bottle for every med I take in my travel pouch which I leave in my suitcase...when I pack I fill the bottles ...works for me
I have not been on a cruise yet first time next year,but I have been on several holidays with my hubby and 3 children and what I do is write a packing list for each person then another list for all the other bits I need and I can honestly say I have never forgot a thing so have been lucky
I created my own packing list in MS Word. I print it for each trip. As I put things in the suitcase I check it off my list
I purchased and downloaded your cruise planner 4 months ago. I’ve been using it like crazy. We are going on a cruise in August and I feel fully prepared. I love your videos, thank you so much :)
I don't typically wear sandals nor flip flops, but you certainly do need them if you're going to the pool. so of course I didn't pack any even though I own some. I just totally forgot. I was so happy when I went to Florida the day before the cruise. a quick trip to Walmart for one pair of flip-flops. awesome one time I forgot to pay act a sleeping mask . you never know exactly how dark or how light a room is going to be on a cruise ship or even in a hotel . my husband on the other hand over time he has either forgotten his reading material, sunglasses and charging cables.
My one suggestion is to bring samples of everything..shampoo,conditioner,skin creams,make up,etc I have saved a ton of these samples just for trips..hope this helps for those that are packing right now like me..
Years ago my father learned the hard way that medications go in your carry on, not your checked luggage. He flew from NYC to Miami. The plane continued on to a destination in South America. His luggage made the trip to South America.
Oh my!! Big problem. Thanks for sharing
I'm lost without lists! Also I've learned that if I keep things in small piles, rather than spread out, I'm less likely to forget things & I keep & take my packing list with me... I check it once when I pack to go, and a second time when we pack again to go home.
Always use your ziplock bags Extra large Medium and small bring extra ones easy to pack toothpaste and toothbrush and all your makeup lip gloss and deodorant and roll on perfume !! Your tips are very helpful!! This is my 18 times cruising and it’s still fun to read your tips!!!Learn something new everyday!!
@@ednawilson2947 You're welcome :)
I love your videos, Ilana. Twice had med problems due to forgetting. I remembered to bring the meds both times. In one experience I just packed the small pill containers in a bag without paying attention to how much was in them. I didn’t know I was short on one med til a couple days later. I only went 2 days without it and health was ok, but it added a lot of stress. I now use a pill-minder to have the am and pm pills for each day in a compartment for a week. If it’s a longer cruise, I add those extra days.
I also bring an extra day of meds with me because once we had to stay overnight at a hotel after landing at our airport because of a winter storm. I had not brought extras because it was a 1 hour drive home. Long night! So double checking meds ( and remembering to pack them) before a cruise is vitally important!
I have done 35 cruises plus I have forgotten my toothbrush …in the past I have forgotten… my underwear panties …in the past and the most recent thing I have forgotten… was feminine hygiene products …that I needed and could not find actually on the cruise ship. I spent the entire day in the Port of Anchorage with my husband walking the streets looking for feminine hygiene products which were extremely hard to find ..especially since the bus dropped us off in the middle of the financial banking district in Anchorage and there was absolutely no stores around …after walking for an hour and a half we finally found a tiny little similar to a 7-Eleven store that I paid five times the price for !!but it was definitely worth it in the end!! I will never forget to pack anything again my husband has a new packing list and I have a also new packing list and we have both different items on there and we share them both right before we close up the suitcases.! Another reason why we always go at least 24 hours in advance to a cruise port. And try to find the nearest store to purchase whatever we did not bring with us or actually we forgot. Sometimes you pay a definite higher price but it is worth it in your peace of mind just to have the product you forgot with you in your cabin. Always make a list. And check it twice. Lol
Being an optician I hear horror stories about people loosing their perscription glasses. The most frequent loss happens in the xray machines during security checks. Please remember to stow your glasses in a case and not just set them in the scanning bins.
My husband forgot one of his diabetes meds last year. We have mail order prescriptions so he was able to have them mail a replacement to our hotel. If you use Walgreens or CVS you can go to one and have them give you at least enough to cover the duration of your trip. Of course, your situation was probably different because you were in a different country and you were cruising. I just thought this information might be helpful for someone who might not be aware of this possibility. I enjoy your videos.
My husband forgot his contacts. No problem! He got them from Sam's Club so we should be able to walk into any Walmart with an eye doctor and Sams's should be able to send over the prescription information. Whups! Not so easy! His prescription was 3 days out of date. Legally Sam's could not transfer the information. Now he has to get a whole new eye exam, that morning, before we were supposed to board. We manages to get to the ship with about 20 minutes to spare.
I almost didn’t watch this because we flew into Ft Lauderdale today and will cruise tomorrow! Luckily my husband and I have all of the things on your list! Thank you for all of the wonderful videos that got us to this point.
I am packing for our next cruise right now. One time I also forgot my big round hair brush for a cruise. Packed it!! But took it out the morning of and left it on the sink. I have long hair like yours, and the BIG round hair brush is a must.
You have made cruising so much easier for me! Thank you!
Thanks so much Kim!!
The thing I forgot on a cruise is the reason why I started packing by a list for whatever trip I go on. We were leaving out of Port Canaveral but going to Disney before the cruise. Thankfully, we checked in the hotel and were about to head to Disney and I realized I forgot my underwear. THe only pair I had, I had on my body. We had to stop by Walmart before going to see Mickey Mouse. Since then, underwear is the first thing that goes into my bag.
My mom has dementia. Despite our best efforts, she still didn’t pack pyjamas or a toothbrush. Luckily, I had two sets of PJs and toothbrushes are easy to find. Edit: I did not bring hair conditioner because I liked the Princess brand (10 years ago), but looks like they no longer have separate shampoo and conditioner- it’s a combo. If you like a separate hair conditioner, bring it on Princess cruises!
I forgot a toothbrush on my last cruise and it was like $6 on the cruise! lmao
Packing and packing lists are my favorite lol. I’m always overpacking for any scenario, except for one cruise…. I forgot my husbands dress shoes! Thankfully we were able to rent some, but he will never let me live it down! Needless to say I haven’t forgotten them since!
Haha it can definitely happen! I forgot just one shoe once, hard to use half a pair 😂
Too funny!!! that you say “you forgot to pack your husband’s dress shoes. “ My husband packs his own suitcase! and I pack my own suitcase and together we pack a small one of items we use together. None of that i packed his and he packed mine issue. If he forgot his dress shoes that’s on him. I don’t think it’s on you. FYI
My boyfriend and I pack our own suitcases but I take responsibility for both of our boarding documents since the email comes to me. Me being the over packer and over thinker that I am always uses a packing list and has my suitcases packed a couple days prior. My boyfriend on the other hand packs the night before (he’s even packed the morning of one some trips) with no packing list. If he forgets something thats on him, I always tell him to pack earlier to make sure he has everything. I’m making sure I have what I need and make sure all our travel documents are current and packed and ready to go, he just needs to be responsible for his own stuff. He’s a grown adult
I love it that you say you forgot his dress shoes? Is he an adult does he not know how to pack his own dress shoes? It reminds me of once when my husband said I forgot to pack his suit jackets for a trip. I called him an idiot because then I asked him did you pack my bras lol as an adult these are things you should remember on your own not rely on someone else whether you were married or not.
Always carry your prescription in your handbag/wallet.
Yes absolutely! I put my meds in my toiletry bag (I thought) and could not find them at out hotel. Now definitely more careful
I forgot my bra bag I had prepared for a cruise. Lucky for me, I had packed sports bras separately plus the bra I was wearing, so I washed and reused.
Hi Elainer, my wife and I going on our first cruise ( first time cancelled because of covid) so we're really looking forward to it. Your videos are great thank you for doing them such a great help 😊
Now a days take 30 days worth of medication weather your medication is an otc or an rx. Also bring a copy of your prescription from your doctor. Many pharmacies will fill a prescription from another dr in a foreign country as long as it is on tamper proof paper ( with restrictions ). If you get to a foreign country and have a problem do not forget your embassy/consulate.
My hair brush broke…I’ll bring a hard plastic comb on the next cruise.
I use a cpap. When I packed it I left out the piece that attaches the mask to the hose. Luckily there was a medical supply store that was open on Saturday. Unluckily they did not carry the same brand. I had to buy a whole new face mask. That was a lesson learned the hard way to the tune of $150.
Pack either Ear Drops just in case you get water in your ears.
Which one do you recommend?
I’m really good at packing for a trip (because I pack ahead of time) and really terrible for packing for work. Since I work in a pool I’ve often forgotten underwear 😜. I’ve also forgotten to pack a tshirt or a jumper. One time I forgot to pack jeans or track pants. I’ve forgotten my towel on numerous occasions and one unfortunate time a few weeks ago when it was quite cold and rainy - I forgot to pack street clothes altogether and had to go home in wet bathers and a towel.