17 Things Experienced Cruisers NEVER Pack Anymore (New Rules & Tips)

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  • Опубликовано: 8 дек 2024

Комментарии • 351

  • @LifeWellCruised
    @LifeWellCruised  7 дней назад +4

    🌟 Level 8 Luggage (get 15% off with code LIFEWELLCRUISED15): www.anrdoezrs.net/click-101150558-15195329

  • @CruisingEngineer
    @CruisingEngineer 7 дней назад +105

    You are correct about leaving the expensive jewelry at home. I have been bringing CZ (cubic zirconium) for years and only wear it on the ship. On shore excursions, I don't wear any jewelry but bring a battery-operated watch in my backpack. Trying to impress a shore criminal with the big fake bling is just as dangerous.

    • @LifeWellCruised
      @LifeWellCruised  7 дней назад +11

      @@CruisingEngineer very good advice. I agree nothing flashy in ports

    • @Reed-2big
      @Reed-2big 7 дней назад +9

      I had a cheap Walmart watch, a bit unique, that I think every street hawker in St Martin commented about! It’s since died but it did tell me that things you don’t notice others certainly do! Almost scary. At that time I had a walker that I was capable of using as a weapon, but I still tried to not be a target. 😇

    • @suzTeach199
      @suzTeach199 4 дня назад +1

      Thanks. Good to know.

    • @margaretlusk5556
      @margaretlusk5556 4 дня назад +2

      Same here, I take a few fakes to wear to dinner. Otherwise I
      " underdress"

  • @danielroach5415
    @danielroach5415 7 дней назад +62

    Im a big "just in case" packer, never know when im gonna need a bass drum or a couple of 10 pin bowling balls!

  • @ST52655
    @ST52655 7 дней назад +34

    My husband and I are veteran cruisers. Items I’m definitely going to pack for all future cruises are laundry detergent sheets and my noise-reducing headphones. I cannot tolerate loud noises. The ones I have are inexpensive and cut the volume level in half.

  • @sharonhinsley5335
    @sharonhinsley5335 6 дней назад +14

    Water proof shoes and all clothing items with SCOTCHGARD!! This really works. I sprayed my sneakers and raincoat with it twice in the garage. Dries fast, no odor. Rain actually beaded up on my raincoat. Very cool. After you wash things, you need to re-apply Scotchgard.

    • @genitagray6126
      @genitagray6126 5 дней назад

      I used to use Scotchguard, but it’s very toxic. I did research online & they make several new ones that aren’t toxic.

  • @FionaFairlie
    @FionaFairlie 7 дней назад +29

    Not planning to go on a cruise until 2026, but as I hunker down for a long, dark and dreich Scottish winter, your videos really cheer me up. Thank you. Happy cruising.😊❤🛳🏝🌏

    • @LifeWellCruised
      @LifeWellCruised  7 дней назад +3

      @@FionaFairlie I’m so glad!! We’re heading into winter here in Canada (snow this morning) so I also love to think about cruises when at home 😂

    • @FionaFairlie
      @FionaFairlie 7 дней назад +3

      @@LifeWellCruised 😂of course, our Scottish winters are a bit feeble compared with your Canadian ones: a friend living in Thunder Bay has sent me plenty of pictures and videos over the years!🥶🥰

  • @SGriffin-p5j
    @SGriffin-p5j 7 дней назад +14

    We did a British Isles cruise with a week in London and were so glad we had waterproof shoes. Wet feet are no fun and regular shoes take days to dry out. We do a lot of walking tours in ports and hikers are the most comfortable shoes if you are walking 20,000 plus steps a day. Always wear them on the plane as they are the heaviest shoes we take but also the easiest to adjust for swelling if you want to take off your shoes during overnight flights.

  • @larrybrown2470
    @larrybrown2470 7 дней назад +16

    Regarding local currency, in Europe if you need to use public restrooms you may need Euro coins. Some take a credit cards but many of them require a one Euro coins. Something you may not think about until it is an emergency!

    • @larrybrown2470
      @larrybrown2470 7 дней назад +1

      We also needed cash (Euros) to purchase a day pass for transportation in Venice.

    • @LifeWellCruised
      @LifeWellCruised  4 дня назад

      @@larrybrown2470 great point to have some

    • @b.morgan1568
      @b.morgan1568 3 дня назад +1

      We usually wait until we arrive at the airport and use a no-fee bank card to withdraw some cash at an ATM. It usually gives better rates than an Exchange booth. Not a lot, but enough to use if needed.

  • @richardmasters6817
    @richardmasters6817 7 дней назад +27

    I use an inflatable neck pillow. It is very small when not inflated so it takes no space and it is wrapped in soft material so it is still very comfortable. Would hate to not have it on plane.

    • @LifeWellCruised
      @LifeWellCruised  7 дней назад +5

      @@richardmasters6817 very interesting! I’ll have to check that one out

    • @amandaregis313
      @amandaregis313 7 дней назад +1

      We have a pair for travel as well. It was great on the train and Greyhound bus last summer, and will probably be a blessing on the Amtrak Maple Leaf from Niagara Falls Ontario to New York.

    • @johnflack4241
      @johnflack4241 6 дней назад

      Me too. And I inflate to my personal comfort level.

    • @sstesh84
      @sstesh84 6 дней назад +2

      Love my inflatable neck pillow!

    • @breadroomghost8764
      @breadroomghost8764 6 дней назад

      I have a Cabeau inflatable neck pillow that is just like the memory foam one and I don’t know if I’d ever go back

  • @brianscovern68
    @brianscovern68 7 дней назад +15

    Thanks for a great video of what not to bring. I don't even bring my gold wedding ring...just put on a homemade plastic ring for the trip. An empty water bottle is a must for filling up in the morning for excursions.

  • @lrf6399
    @lrf6399 5 дней назад +3

    I find the over the door organizer useful because we sail smaller/older ships which do not have all the extra space newer ships have. Something to keep in mind.

  • @mariaboehlke1809
    @mariaboehlke1809 7 дней назад +11

    I like my over the door shoe organizer! I use it for all my toiletries. No real jewelry for me on any vacation. Thrift store is for dress up clothes and jewelry. I bring an entire pharmacy and first aid stuff. Thank you!
    I really like your videos!

    • @LifeWellCruised
      @LifeWellCruised  7 дней назад

      Thanks for sharing this!!

    • @breadroomghost8764
      @breadroomghost8764 6 дней назад

      You sound just like me, lol. We ditched the over the door organizer after seeing how the the room steward struggled to work around it. And truthfully we don’t need that much stuff anyway

  • @freeplayfrank7736
    @freeplayfrank7736 6 дней назад +15

    I like your cruising videos, just watching makes me feel like I'm on vacation. You are a great host.

    • @LifeWellCruised
      @LifeWellCruised  5 дней назад

      @@freeplayfrank7736 you made my day! Lol that’s the greatest compliment 😊

  • @shanny3938
    @shanny3938 7 дней назад +6

    I went on an Alaska cruise this past September and brought waterproof hiking boots because I planned to do a lot of walking/hiking. Instead of packing them, I wore them to/from the airport. Worked out great for me!

    • @LifeWellCruised
      @LifeWellCruised  7 дней назад

      Awesome

    • @suzTeach199
      @suzTeach199 4 дня назад

      I always wear mine too. Walking in the airport can be hard on the back and of course it cuts down on space used and weight in your checked baggage.

  • @roberthicks2191
    @roberthicks2191 6 дней назад +10

    Depending where, my experience is DO take some (not a lot) foreign currency if you think you’ll be dealing with cash situations. In Mexico, cash is still king for taxis and buses. Colombian pesos will make you feel like a millionaire (and are great for tipping the local guide if you don’t spend them all) and finally Euros in Europe - a must in some countries. Within Canada and the US, credit cards are fine but restaurant staff appreciate cash tips.

    • @yl861
      @yl861 6 дней назад

      Yeah, I like to have a little bit of local currency, just in case of needing to move quickly. You never know if you're going to get lost or move too far from the port/hotel/bus and time flies.

  • @spacepilot12
    @spacepilot12 7 дней назад +7

    Correct! I've been on 26 cruises and don't bring any of those items. I don't ever use any medications so don't bring those either.Its a lot nicer now that smart phones have replaced so many things. On my first International trip in 1975 I brought a camera with a bag full of accessories, a cassette recorder, binoculars, a thick copy of Cooks Continental Timetable so I would know train times, maps and guide books, foreign language dictionary, dress shoes and clothing etc. I love to walk and hike but have not brought hiking boots on a cruise to Alaska or anywhere. I find my New Balance trail sneakers are comfortable for day to day use as well as anywhere I might walk. I would only bring hiking shoes for an overnight backpacking trip.

  • @cinderella5874
    @cinderella5874 5 дней назад +7

    The towel clips double as clips to hold the drapes closed/together.

  • @barbaraimwold4352
    @barbaraimwold4352 7 дней назад +12

    The over the door organizer is great when 4 women are sharing a room.

    • @nancyruckman5875
      @nancyruckman5875 7 дней назад +2

      I can hardly share a room with one. In fact, my last cruise I went solo and it was wonderful. That organizer would be a necessity for four in a room!!

    • @rzz9594
      @rzz9594 6 дней назад +1

      Barb
      I have no intention of ever cruising but 4 women sharing a room?
      Kinda gets my attention.
      Just sayin ‘ . Yeahhh 👍

    • @LifeWellCruised
      @LifeWellCruised  4 дня назад

      @@barbaraimwold4352 yes!! True

  • @rosalita1962
    @rosalita1962 6 дней назад +7

    Waterproof hiking could be a necessity as it could be rainy and cold! The boots were great for walking on the glaciers! I used mine on multiple days!

    • @LifeWellCruised
      @LifeWellCruised  5 дней назад +1

      @@rosalita1962 that’s a good point. Like you said, if you’re walking on glaciers etc

  • @NicholasPyers
    @NicholasPyers 7 дней назад +8

    Yes a video about your new fur sibling (you do know they are already your parents favourite “child” now 😂)… and your own fur child… would great and fun.
    Also a story about what you do to ensure they are well cared for while you’re away on a cruise would be useful for many

  • @lindab5789
    @lindab5789 6 дней назад +3

    In the past, I have been very guilty of bringing too much 'what-if' stuff. Over the past couple of years, I have scaled back tremendously. I generally take a capsule wardrobe with about 1 weeks worth of clothes and then just do laundry on the ship. The cruises we have been on do not require any formal or even dressy clothing. Black pants and a nicer top are all that are necessary. I no longer need to bring an organizer, because I just do not bring that much stuff anymore. All of our cruising has been in Europe, and I do try to bring a local currency for tipping guides, etc. If I cannot get local currency, then I use Euros.

  • @jfminton54
    @jfminton54 7 дней назад +8

    Good tips as always! I never bring good jewelry..just inexpensive costume jewelry. Instead of an over the door hanger I bring a small storage bin ( dollar tree) to put makeup items in. Keeps me organized but can throw away at the end of the cruise.

  • @roxanneonthemove4187
    @roxanneonthemove4187 4 дня назад +2

    Went on a 13 night cruise to the Mediterranean last month.I did not pack most of my “What Ifs” are regretted it. Husband got sick and needed medication on last day and was miserable on the plane, I should have just bought some at the airport. We had 14 hour of flight time in a 26 hour total travel time day(s).
    We have different type of luggage, depends on our trip, 2 or 4 wheels, soft or hard sides, 20” or 22” carry ons, medium or large checked bags. 2 wheels are not obsolete, it is easier to tow behind you over cobbled stone roads.
    I never taken an over the door organizer on a cruise, not sure what I would put in it.
    I try to plan as much as I can for my cruise as I do for any other trip. My toiletries are at least the minimum of what I need, if there is a way to get clothes cleaned then can pack less. If there are excursions that may need specific items to make our adventure enjoyable I try to reading about things like if there may be mosquitoes, packing bug repellent, Walking a distance to a waterfall in Hawaii, packing sturdy shoes or sandals, not flip flops.
    I pack most of my small items in pouches with other like items. Some of the “What Ifs” are left in the suitcase unless we need it.

    • @LifeWellCruised
      @LifeWellCruised  4 дня назад

      @@roxanneonthemove4187 oh no! At least he only got sick at the end. Thanks for sharing

  • @LoreeVanderWerf-si8sn
    @LoreeVanderWerf-si8sn 7 дней назад +9

    Definitely hiking shoes for us. We tend to go to Alaska late in the season. Deck can be slick, gangways, decking in ports Ect. We also wore them in Costa Rica, rainy and slick trails and swing bridges.

    • @LifeWellCruised
      @LifeWellCruised  7 дней назад +1

      Thanks for sharing this! Lol as soon as I don’t bring them, I’ll need them 😬

    • @LoreeVanderWerf-si8sn
      @LoreeVanderWerf-si8sn 7 дней назад

      @, we’re in our early 60’s. Our last 17 day Panama Cruise, felt like the cruise from Cocoon. We were in the younger age bracket.🤣

  • @schamber1000
    @schamber1000 6 дней назад +5

    I leave on Friday for a Sunday cruise. I just took out the towel clips because I have towel bands. I should probably take out the water shoes but we will be at the beach 2 days. I have lots of OTC drugs but I took them out of the packaging so they don’t take up too much room.
    Love your blogs! Thank you!

    • @breadroomghost8764
      @breadroomghost8764 6 дней назад +2

      Oh no! Hopefully you can make it back through customs and immigration unscathed. One of the cardinal rules of bringing medication is to leave it in the original packaging, even if it’s OTC. I’ve had issues coming back because of pills outside of their original packaging

    • @schamber1000
      @schamber1000 6 дней назад

      @ it’s too late now for the OTC. I’ve had good luck on other trips. Hopefully I’ll be ok on this one.

  • @PrepperPotpourri
    @PrepperPotpourri 7 дней назад +3

    I agree with you regarding leaving the hiking gear at home for an Alaska cruise. We did do some hiking but our everyday footwear was fine.

  • @jacquelines7492
    @jacquelines7492 7 дней назад +12

    I always learn so much from your videos! Great tips & advice ❤

    • @LifeWellCruised
      @LifeWellCruised  7 дней назад +3

      @@jacquelines7492 thanks for watching! So glad to hear

  • @CarboneCat
    @CarboneCat 7 дней назад +8

    For my Norway and Dolomites trips. I bought lightweight waterproof hiking shoes that I could wear everywhere. It was perfect for both because it has enough grip for the trails and my feet were dry when we had intense rainy weather. They were my go to shoes for the excursions/ports exploration.

    • @LifeWellCruised
      @LifeWellCruised  7 дней назад +2

      @@CarboneCat that’s fabulous & great that they were lightweight

    • @Reed-2big
      @Reed-2big 7 дней назад +1

      I rely on wool socks for most rainy adventures, but then I no longer hike.

  • @susansmith864
    @susansmith864 7 дней назад +15

    Can't agree on the 4-wheeled "spinner" luggage. I travel carry-on only and a spinner wastes so much space compared to recessed 2-wheelers.

    • @JBM425
      @JBM425 7 дней назад +1

      Spinner/four-wheel luggage is also more prone to damage by rough handling when checked.

    • @lisajohnson7233
      @lisajohnson7233 7 дней назад +1

      I had a Level 8 spinner wheel carryon, and the second time I tried to use it the TSA lock wouldn’t open. I had to order a TSA key that got the suitcase open, but then we couldn’t get it out of the lock. Ended up throwing the whole suitcase away.☹️

    • @breadroomghost8764
      @breadroomghost8764 6 дней назад +2

      We use two wheeled travelpro crew 5 carryon bags, I have a travelpro spinner maxlite carryon and it’s sort of a piece of junk, comparatively. Spinners are great but not a one is sturdy in my opinion

    • @kriskringle7347
      @kriskringle7347 6 дней назад

      @@lisajohnson7233 Bummer!!

    • @Tee55118
      @Tee55118 6 дней назад

      Delsey for me!

  • @JBM425
    @JBM425 7 дней назад +9

    I disagree with you about “old luggage,” at least for checked baggage on planes. Baggage with two recessed wheels is a lot less likely to be damaged by rough handling than four exposed wheels. For carry-on bags that you will be putting in the overhead bin, four wheels are fine; however, if the plane is full and you are one of the unlucky ones who are required to check bags at the aircraft door, all bets are off.

    • @LifeWellCruised
      @LifeWellCruised  4 дня назад

      @@JBM425 that could be. These wheels have gone on my flights and cruises, but if your luggage works well for you nothing wrong with that :)

  • @KathInNJ
    @KathInNJ 3 дня назад +1

    We hiked to the top of a mountain in Norway, and the hiking boots were important for that excursion. They didn't need to be waterproof, as it didn't rain, and if it did rain we wouldn't have done the hike. On our Alaska sailing, it rained most days, and even though we were on more nature trails thank mountains there, having waterproof boots meant my sneakers were dry for the next time I needed to wear them. I think the recommendation should be to know what excursions you are doing ahead of time, and plan your footwear accordingly.

  • @sf3413
    @sf3413 7 дней назад +7

    We don't bring door magnets anymore though they are very cute. We don't dress up. On Royal, you're totally fine to just wear a polo with slacks on formal night. That suits us perfectly. We also don't bring many changes of clothes. Either it's a cold cruise and we aren't getting sweaty or we're in our swimsuits most of the day. Oh, and we walked 10's of miles for our Alaska cruise and our Hokas were all we needed. The trails are really nice! What is your favorite cruise line, all things considered?

    • @LifeWellCruised
      @LifeWellCruised  7 дней назад +2

      @@sf3413 thanks for sharing! Interesting how we change and what we bring changes over time. I do have thoughts on my favorite cruise line - but I’ll share in an upcoming video as it’s a bit complicated 😂

    • @breadroomghost8764
      @breadroomghost8764 6 дней назад

      Holland America for the win

  • @COLINJELY
    @COLINJELY 6 дней назад +1

    I did a recent 8 night cruise on QM2, plus I spent 2 days in NYC. I had one suitcase. I had a blue suit and a black suit, plus my Dinner Jacket for Formal Nights. Apart from dress shirts I had 2 shirts to wear during the day, plus I bought a Cunard Polo Shirt on board. I bought one pair of bathers with me and never went anywhere near a pool

  • @crrizello5157
    @crrizello5157 6 дней назад +2

    Great video. I gave up on travel pillows when I left it once on an airplane. The seat wings work just fine. I also use a basic tank dress as a coverup also, so I can wear it over a swimsuit or on its own if necessary.

  • @laurazeller2014
    @laurazeller2014 2 дня назад

    Thanks, Ilana! A great video as always.

  • @suzTeach199
    @suzTeach199 4 дня назад +1

    Great information here. I think with dinnerwear versatility is the takeaway here. On my 9 day Cunard cruise I had lots of dressy outfits by bringing a LBD and assorted blouses that I wore on top. I also now own 2 long black skirts, 1 from Tilley that pack up small and look formal.

  • @morninglight67
    @morninglight67 6 дней назад +4

    I took hiking boots on my first Alaska cruise. But they were the low ankle vs. High ankle and I didn't bring walking shoes, so they got worn and were comfy. I love Merrell shoes. This time I'll be going at the height of summer and I really am a sandal girl, so athletic Merrell sandals will be my daytime footwear on and off the ship.

    • @suzTeach199
      @suzTeach199 4 дня назад

      I also wore hiking shoes. They work on all terrains - cities, woods, and the wooden board walks of the north.

  • @f4shionlover
    @f4shionlover 7 дней назад +3

    Thank you for your videos! Your content is always so informative, concise and entertaining💛

    • @LifeWellCruised
      @LifeWellCruised  7 дней назад +1

      @@f4shionlover I appreciate that! Thanks for watching 🛳️😊

  • @jodiburchard2993
    @jodiburchard2993 7 дней назад +8

    The only thing I have to add is if you go on Cunard, you are expected to dress up on formal nights. We were on Queen Mary and didn’t have formal wear, we found out you are limited as to where you can go in the ship on formal night if you are not dressed appropriately. Never again!

    • @gazstaf
      @gazstaf 7 дней назад +3

      We found our Queen Mary 2 experience all a bit too formal every night getting dressed up got all a bit over the top

    • @peterjones6322
      @peterjones6322 6 дней назад +4

      A good reason to not cruise with Cunard, this is not the 19th century.

    • @breadroomghost8764
      @breadroomghost8764 6 дней назад +1

      My MIL loved the ostentatiousness of the Queen Mary, I could never

    • @LifeWellCruised
      @LifeWellCruised  4 дня назад

      @@jodiburchard2993 thanks for sharing this

  • @adjustableWench
    @adjustableWench 6 дней назад +1

    for the neck pillow i definitely bring mine considering i use it at night - no biggie to attach it to my tote bag for the flight and if i need to pack it anywhere its memory foam so i can squeeze it in somewhere with no problem. also agree about the formal wear - we have just gotten to the point where we just want to relax and not be bothered with having to drag along clothes we may only wear once during the cruise. and good deal with the towel bands - just discovered those a couple cruises ago - best idea ever

  • @sandraclayton4998
    @sandraclayton4998 2 дня назад

    I hadn’t cruised in 20 years and went in October on the Carnival Paradise. I did a good job of packing but I’m going on another cruise in January, the Carnival Glory 4 day cruise this time and I’m packing smarter. I’m going to wear one pair of nice slacks to the boat and pack another in my luggage and alternate for dinners. Bring 2 nice shirts and my shorts and tee shirt for walking on the ship and ports over my swimsuit, only one swimsuit and night gown and a few other things. Keep it simple. Also, this is a do over for me because the weather was a little rough and the day I was driving to Tampa, I had to but my cat to sleep. Was not a great start.

  • @writern5389
    @writern5389 6 дней назад +1

    We did both bring lightweight, tennis shoe like hiking boots for Alaska cruise, and we use them a lot still. It was misty a lot, even if it wasn’t raining, and when we were going down the Tracy Arm Fjord to look at the glaciers, the decks were wet. My feet stayed nice and toasty warm!

  • @PlayItSafeDefense
    @PlayItSafeDefense 6 дней назад +2

    Love your tips, especially the chair bands!!!! I never knew about these😮 So cheap too. I'm sad to see formal nights, not so formal. I LOVE dressing up❤

    • @LifeWellCruised
      @LifeWellCruised  5 дней назад

      @@PlayItSafeDefense I’m always surprised that there’s still a mix of people who do dress up, just not like before :)

  • @tippersteffi1
    @tippersteffi1 7 дней назад +5

    This year we went around the world and I took a dark suit and a nice blazer which worked great for formal nights…around 12. We are doing the same trip in 2025 and I just purchased a tuxedo….why, well I just thought I would change it up.

  • @sandratanner4470
    @sandratanner4470 6 дней назад +1

    I used my hiking boots and was glad I had them. If my feet get wet and cold I will get sick. Wick away socks a must.

  • @AUTSLOTS17
    @AUTSLOTS17 4 дня назад

    I’d love to hear the puppy story!! Thank you for these tips!!! I’ll make some changes in my suitcase before my cruise this weekend! I appreciate your help and for taking the time to make this video for us!!

  • @barbaralazier8352
    @barbaralazier8352 7 дней назад +3

    Guide books-we have come a long way baby. I bought a pair of Merry Boots. They are fabulous. I took them to Iceland too

  • @MoonstoneSummer
    @MoonstoneSummer 6 дней назад

    5:58 Yes, please, to hearing the story about your parents’ new puppy! So adorable 🥰

  • @AbigailGerlach-zt1sh
    @AbigailGerlach-zt1sh 3 дня назад

    I bring my Kindle. Guide books are heavy!
    Here's an idea. Rather than a neck pillow, tuck in a pillowcase and stuff your sweater in the pillowcase. When you're finished, put your sweater on and tuck the pillowcase in a small pocket.
    My jewelry is CZ and it stays in the safe except at dinner. On excursions, I wear a tiny pair of plain posts and call it done.

    • @b.morgan1568
      @b.morgan1568 3 дня назад

      Or, buy an inflatable neck pillow. Takes almost NO space (packs flat) and is very comfy when inflated.

  • @macmutant
    @macmutant 4 дня назад

    Love the Level8 Voyager products. Wife and I both have the yellow and black ones. Super easy to maneuver. We did take what can best be described as casual waterproof hiking shoes to Alaska. We did the same as you, light hiking. Maybe we didn't need them, but did wear them for the helicopter glacier excursion. Finally, we didn't bring formal wear. My wife wore more business style dresses, and I wore jeans with a button-up shirt (no tie) and blazer. Rocked Allbirds for shoes the whole time. Thank you for the great video.

    • @LifeWellCruised
      @LifeWellCruised  4 дня назад

      @@macmutant that’s awesome! Totally agree - so easy to manoeuvre. I think I probably needed less heavy hiking/waterproof shoes. Good idea for next time 😊

  • @williamoday573
    @williamoday573 5 дней назад +1

    Yes on waterproof hiking shoes in Alaska. I wore a pair that was supposed to have some measure of protection against water penetration and still my feet got quite wet. I've also invested in waterproof hiking pants for our next Alaskan visit as my jeans did nothing to keep me dry, and I was often soaked to the skin by the end of the day.
    We still carry formal outfits when we cruise, and we were pleased to see a significant number of tuxedos and gowns worn on formal nights on our last cruise on Explorer of the Seas earlier this month.

    • @LifeWellCruised
      @LifeWellCruised  5 дней назад

      I agree, Alaskan weather can be unpredictable!

    • @williamoday573
      @williamoday573 5 дней назад

      @@LifeWellCruised I figured, "I've been on this planet for over 60 years, so I know how to prepare for rain..." But I've never lived in an area where rain is almost constant. I'll be better prepared next time, though! When I'm home, if it rains I can typically duck into a building somewhere along my travels to await the return of sunshine. But when in Alaska I found myself in situations where I simply had to get wet and make the best of it. I had a nice rain jacket, but denim doesn't protect against water, so from the waist down I was drenched by day's end.🌧🌧🌧

  • @SmithsInTheMaking
    @SmithsInTheMaking 4 дня назад +1

    We brought all the rain gear on our Alaska cruise. We lived in Juneau for a summer in college, working as cruise tour guides and we knew how rainy it could be. The three weeks leading up to our cruise the weather report was rain every day. Luckily we had amazing weather during our cruise week and didnt need the gear, but I would pack it again for an Alaska cruise.

    • @suzTeach199
      @suzTeach199 4 дня назад +1

      Being the superstitious type, being prepared often means it won't happen! Ha!

    • @LifeWellCruised
      @LifeWellCruised  4 дня назад +2

      I really have to remember that Alaska weather is unpredictable. Thanks for your insights

  • @monicap5054
    @monicap5054 6 дней назад +1

    Your family grew,wWhat an adorable puppy!! How does your older fur baby feel?😆😆

    • @LifeWellCruised
      @LifeWellCruised  5 дней назад

      @@monicap5054 lol, a bit of a story, but she’s not thrilled 😬😂

  • @kittyku6619
    @kittyku6619 4 дня назад +1

    I love 💕 my towel clips. And really doesn’t take that much room in my bag.

  • @laurenschenck5355
    @laurenschenck5355 4 дня назад

    I love my towel Clips or bands so much and awesome ❄️☃️☃️❤️❤️❤️☃️❄️❄️💚💚💚🎁🎁❄️❤️❤️☃️💚💚🎅🏻🎄🎅🏻❄️☃️❤️💚💚🎅🏻🎄🎄🎅🏻❤️❤️☃️❄️🎄🎄🎅🏻🎅🏻🎅🏻🛳️🛳️🛳️🛳️🛳️🛳️🛳️🛳️🛳️🛳️🛳️🛳️🛳️🛳️🛳️

  • @Honolulu-Blue
    @Honolulu-Blue 7 дней назад

    1) I chose not to bring any foreign currency with me on my recent transpacific cruise. The gamble paid off. I wasn't in any port for long enough to need it, and enough places took my credit card that I didn't have any money problems.
    2) I have guide books on my tablet and phone
    3) I love your supermodel bounce. Very confident, very enticing.
    4) it looks like you have a nice sponsor product. I'm glad you like it. I have no current need for luggage, but will try to remember this when I do.

    • @LifeWellCruised
      @LifeWellCruised  7 дней назад +1

      Thanks for sharing! Lol, there’s never any need to get any items you don’t need :)

  • @debratrani8583
    @debratrani8583 6 дней назад

    When I went to Alaska in May, I wore Asics waterproof sneakers everywhere. They were great as it rained everyday and my feet stayed dry. They were so comfy for walking all day.

  • @ErikaEmody
    @ErikaEmody 7 дней назад +1

    I always bring my neck pillow. It’s part of my “Gettjng Through the Flight Comfortably” gear. Put on neck pillow, put on noise canceling headphones and put on my sunglasses. I’m good. 😂

  • @ourh2253
    @ourh2253 22 часа назад

    I have to bring zero no caffeine sodas on like Carnival, but Royal has the Coke machines with mixes. I love that

  • @KarenLane-g4t
    @KarenLane-g4t 6 дней назад +1

    I have the Level 8 Voyager set. I love it!
    I also brought waterproof hiking boots on my cruise to Alaska. Never wore them!

    • @LifeWellCruised
      @LifeWellCruised  5 дней назад

      @@KarenLane-g4t thanks for sharing! Haha similar experiences 😂

  • @jpindahaus
    @jpindahaus 7 дней назад +3

    You mentioned neck pillow; however, a stuffable neck pillow is nice to have.

    • @LifeWellCruised
      @LifeWellCruised  7 дней назад

      @@jpindahaus true. Honestly I bring a neck pillow on longer flights

    • @breadroomghost8764
      @breadroomghost8764 6 дней назад

      Airlines are checking for those now, fyi

  • @mikezimmermann89
    @mikezimmermann89 5 дней назад

    I did NOT need waterproof hiking shoes/boots for my Alaska cruise. I had a last-minute opportunity for a glacier visit and was worried that the sturdy walking shoes I did have would not be waterproof enough. Turns out the tour operator provided waterproof, spiked over-shoes as a safety measure and required everyone wear them to insure good footing. I could’ve shown up with some warm socks and a pair of bedroom slippers and been just fine!
    Check what’s provided by tour operators when you can. Often their need to keep you safe will ALSO keep you comfortable.

  • @francesgill8621
    @francesgill8621 5 дней назад

    If you are doing a land tour or overnight in a foreign country, local currency is very helpful for tipping and buying souvenirs from vendors who only take cash.

  • @rjsams001
    @rjsams001 6 дней назад

    I love that Holland America puts scales by the elevators--I have used them when I bought a lot of souvenirs! So convenient.

  • @paisley_flamingo2
    @paisley_flamingo2 5 дней назад

    Waterproof walking shoes, yes! I wear a silicone wedding band when traveling. As for the pillow, I carry a lightweight blanket that I can roll up and use instead or I have a light blanket. And a little bit of local currency is handy, you never know what will happen.

  • @lindaeastment4542
    @lindaeastment4542 7 дней назад

    Hi Ilana, Thank you for sharing some very valuable & helpful tips enjoy your cruising Lin 🙂💖👍

    • @LifeWellCruised
      @LifeWellCruised  7 дней назад

      Glad it was helpful! Thanks for watching & taking time to comment 😊

  • @peggytan4610
    @peggytan4610 7 дней назад +2

    Hi Ilana! Normally I don't bring much foreign currency but my New Year's cruise to Vietnam, many places only accept cash so I think it still depends on where you are going. Thank you for your list and as usual I enjoyed all your videos. I will be bringing wine on my New Year cruise as we are allowed 1 bottle per person and we never buy drink packages but we pay as we go ( we don't drink enough to warrant a drink package 😂😂). I still pack a refillable water bottle and if it's a cold weather cruise, a thermos flask too.

    • @LifeWellCruised
      @LifeWellCruised  7 дней назад +1

      @@peggytan4610 makes sense & it’s true it’s important to know where the cash is more needed and accepted. Lol, I brought bottles of wine on my recent cruise too 😂

  • @sharynweizman6044
    @sharynweizman6044 4 дня назад

    I use Hedgren bags. The large one is beautiful in red. It slips over the handle of my carry on, has lots of zippered sections and is waterproof. Their smaller crossbody bags are light and spacious.

  • @davidbergerson
    @davidbergerson 6 дней назад

    You left out what I think is important. It has to do with chargers. On international cruises, we bring a plug converter that has USB A and USB C ports on it. We also have a GAN Charger that will charge up laptops that also have USB A and USB C ports. We plug that GAN Charger into the converter and now we have lots of USB ports :) Having to charge phones, iPads, AirPods is an issue. We have also gone to batteries for our camera's and microphones that have cases like AirPods that charge themselves then charge the batteries within. This means that we can charge those cases with the batteries, bring them with us and that charger and not have to worry about bringing a big battery charger.

  • @SewCraftyNana
    @SewCraftyNana 7 дней назад

    I love our towel clips mainly for identifying our chairs. We pick 4 chairs but there are more people than that - so it gives every one a landing spot for their shoes, etc. it’s easy to tell the kids “our chairs are the ones with the clips”. I see the point with the bands for packing, so maybe I need brightly colored bands to do the same. Great tips!

    • @LifeWellCruised
      @LifeWellCruised  7 дней назад

      lol, I actually do bring towel clips still. I’ve tried to leave them home but feel the same way

    • @gmac64
      @gmac64 6 дней назад

      I use towel clips as well but not just for beach chairs. I use them to clip my swim wear to the cabin balcony chairs to help them dry out faster without blowing away. This way they are not in the way in the shower.

  • @JaniceCrowell
    @JaniceCrowell 2 дня назад

    Remember towel bands take hand strength to use. I’m only in my early 60s but my hands and arms are not strong enough to stretch the towel bands wide enough.

  • @darlenemiller7327
    @darlenemiller7327 5 дней назад +1

    Waterproof athletic shoe if early or late in the season, not hiking boots.

  • @stephanie_mary
    @stephanie_mary 6 дней назад

    I have really been admiring that voyageur level 8 luggage. The handle looks amazing and I love how flat it is - you know that bags will sit on it properly. Might be time to make the switch!

    • @LifeWellCruised
      @LifeWellCruised  5 дней назад

      @@stephanie_mary funny thing I didn’t share, it doubles as a table when you need it - when sitting waiting at your gate 😂

  • @Sunlover42
    @Sunlover42 7 дней назад +8

    We’re experienced cruisers and have a different take on spending money off the ship. We only cruise in Mexico and the Caribbean and rarely spend much time off ship unless we’re on a prepaid shore excursion. We generally walk off the ship with less than $100 cash to pay for tips on excursions or a few inexpensive items in gift shops. We made the mistake of using a credit card in one of the large bazaar type gift shop buildings near the port in Cabo and they ran an additional $1 transaction a few days later and we had to get new cards sent out. Now we leave the credit cards in the safe in our state room. I’m sure it would be fine in more legitimate businesses and restaurants.

    • @breadroomghost8764
      @breadroomghost8764 6 дней назад

      We are experienced cruisers and have years of land travel experience in Mexico and have a different take, too. We have about $100 USD in Mexican pesos (+/- $2000 MXN) and use our credit cards for everything else. Mexicans use a card just as often as they use cash but tiny beachfront places may not have cell signal to run a card so be prepared. Just get fraud protection on your card or have a second card if you are worried about issues. Mexico can be easily visited without an overpriced cruise excursion, too, don’t be scared. ~Love from very rural Oaxaca

  • @norinechang2564
    @norinechang2564 3 дня назад

    I wear waterproof sneakers when cruising Alaska. They're worn on embarkation day, and during excursions, and on debarkation day.

  • @pinky818smith-christian8
    @pinky818smith-christian8 6 дней назад

    Thank you for the fabulous video! We still bring neck pillows (I don't like any of the cabin pillows), the organizer (I don't like a mess and will not put small things in any drawers, etc), hair dryer - I never use it on a cruise ship or hotel...because I need a fuser for my hair). I am a "what if" packer but we do not fly to most of our ports. Looking into the Level 8 luggage, they look fabulous!

  • @rosshageman951
    @rosshageman951 7 дней назад +5

    Please film a video about the new dog. Nothing cuter than a puppy.
    On our Alaska trip, I brought water proof hiking boots and never wore them. We had 65* to 70* weather every day.

    • @LifeWellCruised
      @LifeWellCruised  7 дней назад +2

      That’s interesting! You just never know with weather. Lol, the new puppy is a bit of a story. I’ll do a personal video I think before the holidays

  • @amandaregis313
    @amandaregis313 7 дней назад +3

    We have the inflatable neck pillows, and I got a backpack suitcase that has the strap I can slip over my suitcase handle for $15 on Temu.

  • @RussellHorn-h6y
    @RussellHorn-h6y 6 дней назад

    Newest luggage (and slightly harder to find) is the clamshell luggage that doesn't have a zipper going around. The zippered luggage can be broken into with a ball point pen. The new stuff can't be broken into because there is no zipper. We took it on our last cruise and it did very well.

    • @LifeWellCruised
      @LifeWellCruised  4 дня назад

      @@RussellHorn-h6y I’ve seen that kind but haven’t had an issue, but that’s an interesting point

  • @anniekochera
    @anniekochera 6 дней назад

    I no longer bring fancier shoes for dinner. I bring sneakers for the airplane and all the walking, a pair of sandals, and black tennis shoes for dinner. I'm more stable if the ship does a bit of a roll, and if stuff is spilled on the floor, and much more comfortable when standing in line waiting for our table to open up.

  • @lisaborn4900
    @lisaborn4900 4 дня назад +1

    I bought the Nike Gortex (they are waterproof) tennis shoes for Alaska. I only needed them one day.

  • @cinderella5874
    @cinderella5874 5 дней назад +1

    Limited wardrobe and shoes. I’m an outfit repeater. And my handbag and shoes will go with several outfits.

  • @ScottTo1967
    @ScottTo1967 3 дня назад

    Tux is a must. We love dressing up.

    • @BrendaVanderwey
      @BrendaVanderwey 2 дня назад +1

      Well lots of ships arn't as critical as they were 20 yrs ago about suits, Aust trips didnt seem to concerned as long as you wear descent clothes in Dining room. Cunard might be a little more regimented with Formal nights. Haven't been on one, friends had and you wouldn't have got in without long sleeve shirts even on smart casual days, lmk. if thats still a thing.

  • @Beacon631
    @Beacon631 6 дней назад +1

    Hiking sneakers are different than hiking boots. They are lighter and also waterproof or water resistant. They wear like sneakers and are comfortable. Wear them instead of boots or hiking boots.

    • @LifeWellCruised
      @LifeWellCruised  6 дней назад +1

      You’re right. I think this is a better choice for many people (lol me)

  • @leonidt7
    @leonidt7 6 дней назад

    I took waterproof boots to my Alaska cruise and was happy about it. There were some rains and I took a few excursions that included hiking in forests, so the boots were very useful.

    • @LifeWellCruised
      @LifeWellCruised  5 дней назад

      @@leonidt7 great point - Alaska weather is unpredictable so maybe I was wrong

  • @writern5389
    @writern5389 6 дней назад

    My husband always brings his favorite soda because he drinks it every day and some cruise lines do not carry it. We will get a drink package occasionally, but more often than that we don’t.

  • @mikesyck2624
    @mikesyck2624 21 час назад

    We took Columbia waterproof hiking shoe on our Alaska cruise it rained almost everyday those shoes were the best we brought with us

  • @donniechance4682
    @donniechance4682 6 дней назад

    Yes I want to hear about the puppy😁 I think the Kindle was one best thing for travel.

  • @ThelmaFrohlich
    @ThelmaFrohlich 3 дня назад

    I wore waterproof hiking shoes on our Alaska cruise. Some tours are through a rainforest which will be wet. It also rains frequently in Alaska.

  • @DebbieBoswell-w7y
    @DebbieBoswell-w7y 2 дня назад

    Most cruise lines don’t have caffeine free coke. We may bring these on our next cruise even though we have a drinks plug. Never done this before.

  • @jakexvictor
    @jakexvictor 7 дней назад

    We love your videos ! Going to Alaska again in may! Cheers 🎉

    • @LifeWellCruised
      @LifeWellCruised  7 дней назад

      @@jakexvictor yay!! I would love to plan Alaska next year

  • @vix4x41
    @vix4x41 2 дня назад

    I kept a packing cube in my under seat personal item bag that I used as a pillow against the window seat!

  • @nikiw.
    @nikiw. 6 дней назад

    I bought waterproof hiking shoes for Alaska that look like sneakers. They were very light weight, comfortable, warm, and dry. I wore them every day. I still wear them a lot at home when it's rainy

  • @richardnclark
    @richardnclark 7 дней назад +3

    If luggage with 2 wheels is out of date, why then do all the airline crew have 2 wheel luggage?

    • @LifeWellCruised
      @LifeWellCruised  7 дней назад

      Please use what works for you. These are examples only & if your luggage works and manoeuvres well that’s perfect

    • @breadroomghost8764
      @breadroomghost8764 6 дней назад +1

      I’m using my TravelPro crew 5 bag until it explodes or I’m too old to drag it any more. I’m not buying a spinner if I’ve already got a good suitcase, I’m not worried about being trendy like that

  • @vanessafagan2512
    @vanessafagan2512 4 дня назад

    The waterproof hiking boots definitely depends on the excursions. We did a panning for gold excursion that was at a river, and our feet would have definitely been wet without those good boots!

  • @laurenschenck5355
    @laurenschenck5355 4 дня назад

    I use my hanging toiletry bags my favorites just hang it in my bathroom in my cabin ❄️❄️🎅🏻❤️❤️🎅🏻🎄❄️☃️🛳️☃️🎁🎁🎁💚💚💚🎄🎄❤️❤️❤️❤️🎅🏻🎁🛳️☃️☃️☃️💚❄️❤️❤️❤️🎁🛳️🛳️🛳️❤️❄️🎅🏻🎅🏻🎄🎄💚

  • @82starchild
    @82starchild 5 дней назад

    I like the inflatable neck pillows; they don’t take up much space when they are collapsed

    • @LifeWellCruised
      @LifeWellCruised  5 дней назад

      @@82starchild I’m going to have to check this out

  • @evelynlivant6860
    @evelynlivant6860 6 дней назад

    I’ve been to Alaska on a Land & Sea combo in June and regular sneakers were more than adequate. Loved loved loved dogsledding on the Denver Glacier.

  • @TheOnlyLilithcat
    @TheOnlyLilithcat 7 дней назад +20

    Yes to a video about that adorable puppy!
    I do bring formal wear, because I enjoy formal nights - any excuse to dress up works for me. But I have a long white dress that is pleated and never wrinkles (think Issey Miyake but a heckuva lot less expensive) and so it doesn't take up a lot of suitcase room.

    • @LifeWellCruised
      @LifeWellCruised  7 дней назад +4

      @@TheOnlyLilithcat love that! And yes, I’ll share the puppy story soon (it’s actually both a good & sad story) in a personal q & a video

  • @Lady4Life
    @Lady4Life 6 дней назад

    I purchased waterproof boots for my Alaskan cruise and they never left my house. I returned them when I got back. One, I’m not a hiker! There was a lot of rain at one port so I can see bringing rain boots.