The Right Way to Pack Luggage for a Student’s Cruise Vacation

Taking a student cruise during spring break vacation from college can be an exciting experience, one that is sure to be full of fun and provide everlasting memories. Planning exactly how to pack belongings for such an adventure will help ensure that there are no mishaps along the way. The idea is to relax and enjoy the scenery, take the mind away from the daily grind of school life, and not having to worry if everything needed is stored in its proper place. Practicing beforehand on how and where to pack belongings is essential.

Separate Items According to Need
Much like an international airline trip, packing for a cruise demands that decisions be made on what items will be needed prior to reaching the first major destination. It is always advisable to separate belongings into groups organized according to chronological importance. Things such as tickets, passport, if needed, vouchers for buses or other transfers, and toiletries should be in a smaller carry-on bag, while most clothing, shoes and special equipment, such as camera tripods and music or video accessories can be placed in a larger piece of luggage. If traveling by air to a port of departure for the cruise, think about what will be needed before the luggage is actually deposited in the ship's passenger cabin: toothbrush and paste, deodorant, washcloth, razor and shave gel, combs or brushes, one change of underwear and shirt. These, plus any reading material desired, go into the carry-on bag. Spring break vacation means not worrying about where to find things. Any items that are not already owned should be purchased before leaving to save money and avoid weight overages on luggage on the return trip. Students should seek out shopping deals through coupon codes and ecoupons.

Security Procedures
Cruise lines follow security screening procedures much like the airlines, and so it is logical to pack for an airplane trip when packing for a cruise. Items such as spare batteries, chargers, extra cameras and phones need not be carried in a smaller bag, but should go into a larger suitcase. Large containers of fluids and gels should likewise be placed in the larger pieces of luggage. If the baggage and carry-on luggage passes airport security, it will also pass screening at the cruise terminal.

Do Not Reorganize Items During The Cruise
Once aboard ship, unpack clothing and accessories and store in the cabin dresser or closets. Keep them in exactly the same location every time they are put away. It is also a good idea to leave documents such as passport, e-tickets, cruise and tour vouchers in the carry-on bag, because this is where they were originally stored, and is naturally the first place to look when they are needed. When going ashore during a student cruise, take nothing from the cabin unless it is needed, and dress appropriately so no change of clothing is required.

Author is a freelance journalist who is passionate about saving money when shopping online by finding online shopping deals and coupon codes.