Its been a very long time since we took a cruise, and I'm sure packing will be a challenge.<BR><BR>From all you experienced cruise vacationers out there, what advice can you give me that will help saved time, space and money. I have read on this forum, an over the door shoe rack was a must, to store small items. Any other good ideas?<BR>We are traveling as a family of 4, kids ages 9 & 12.<BR><BR>Any helpful advice would be greatly appreciated!

Rudy<BR><BR>You can get a packing list on www.cruisediva.com. It gives all types of advice. Hope this helps.<BR><BR>Regards...Bob

Rudy, I "treated" my 12 year old triplet grandson's to a cruise and found the small "2-way" radios a big help.A good way to keep in touch during the cruise.<BR>Another tip: I always take "citiknits".<BR>A long black skirt, black palazzo pants, and a long black jacket. I pack several shells (I ususally pack 2 sequined ones) and WALLA, evening wear!! The "citiknits" do not wrinkle and of course, black is still THE color! The knits take up little space!<BR>Have a wonderful, safe voyage!<BR> Happy Cruisin'!

Can't forget the booze and sodas, especially if you are cruising on Carnival.

If you are going to do alot of water things in port: Bring waterproof containers for your money & ship ID; sunscreen, tote bags, snorkel stuff, lightweight lunch bags and ziplok bags-for room service sandwiches to take on shore.<BR><BR>small denomination bills for tips & taxis.<BR><BR>make sure all the shorts you bring have pockets deep enough for the 2-way radios that the kids will lose otherwise.

Before we left I tied ribbons on the radios.....hung them around their necks!<BR>Also added an identification sticker on the radio:name, cabin, etc. It worked!

Thanks everyone!<BR><BR>We have the 2 way radios, and I never thought about bringing them. What a great idea!<BR><BR>Any other advice?

I always throw in a couple Wal-Mart bags. Great to separate dirty from clean clothes and when coming home, can store a damp bathing suit or water shoes that didn't have time to dry. <BR><BR>Some flavored lifesavers or Jolly Ranchers are good to take on snorkel excursions for that lovely dry cottony saltwater mouth after snorkeling. Peppermint candies are good for above too, and they also help slight seasickness.

Rudy, forgot to ask what Cruise ship, date of cruise, and destination....I'll try to think of more ideas for the 12 & 14 yr. olds.....our triplets were 12 and absolutely loved every minute!

Duct tape, in case your luggage breaks.

M.B.<BR>We are going next April, 2003 on the Disney Magic for 7 nights, doing the Eastern Caribbean. <BR><BR>Can't wait to go!

The only essential you need is money. Lots and Lots of extras to get your money. Cruises are the #1 rip off of all time I think. Maybe in the old days they were a bargain but now everyone has their hand out for your money big time.

That's really helpful XXX. If you despise cruising so much, why are you wasting your time (and ours) on this board?<BR><BR>Rudy - be sure to pack a tiny bottle or sample packet of Woolite. It's great for washing out your bathing suit. Salt water can ruin a suit in no time!

Rudy, I remember the "neatest" restaurant on the very tiptop of the mountain in St. Thomas. Local craftsmen were weaving banana leaf hats, etc., etc. and the food was fabulous! Best yellowtail I ever ate! Your kids would enjoy it! We always hire a cab for a few hours and go to "out of the way" spots! It's fun and educational! Have a great cruise!