If you have an upcoming cruise, you might be eager to grab your hard-shell luggage and start packing. However, before you do, I’d like to share some helpful luggage tips specifically for cruises and yachts, including the advantages of using a softer bag for your journey at sea!
The Wheeled Option
Arriving at your destination with a sore back is never pleasant! Opt for a wheeled bag that you can pull along easily. This choice makes navigating airports and the ship much simpler, and it can also serve as a place to rest your secondary carry-on. Additionally, if your trip includes inter-island flights on smaller planes, be sure to check the regulations regarding two-wheeled versus four-wheeled bags, as many small planes restrict the latter.
The Duffle Bag
If you prefer not to use a wheeled bag, consider a durable duffle bag instead. Duffel bags come with several benefits, including designs that help you stay organized. You can choose between a wide cross-body strap for hands-free carrying or a sturdy handle for briefcase-style portability. There is a wide variety of duffle bags available to meet the needs of every traveler. For more details, check out this Good Housekeeping article comparing the 9 Best Duffle Bags.
Consider a Sturdy Material
Another luggage tip for cruises is to think about the material of your bags. In the tighter quarters of cruise cabins, you may find it challenging to store your favorite hard-shell suitcase. For this reason, a sturdy yet flexible material can be beneficial; more compressible options can fit better in cramped spaces. Make sure the material is durable as well, so evaluate your needs against different materials like nylon, polyester, canvas, and leather. Don’t forget to consider price, functionality, shape, storage capacity, and whether the material is waterproof.
Make Sure It’s the Right Size
If you’ve been following Globetrotting Mama, you know I’m a strong proponent of using carry-ons. You can read more in my blog post about The Carry-On Only Life. A key factor when traveling with carry-ons is ensuring the right size. Be certain that your bag fits in the overhead compartments during your flight—this is a mistake I made recently. Size also matters when considering the limited space available on your cruise or yacht.
