Sue’s Travel Packing Tips for a One-Week Vacation or Cruise
When I pack for a cruise or a one-week vacation, I like to start planning well in advance. One thing that really helps me stay organized is using two rolling clothes racks — one for Joe and one for me. I lay everything out ahead of time so I can actually see the outfits together before we leave.
I also try to coordinate colors because it makes such a difference in photos and videos. If you’re traveling to an ocean resort or tropical destination, you can never go wrong with whites, khakis, light blues, and soft neutral colors. They always look clean, classic, and beautiful near the water.
For evening outfits, I also try to coordinate colors that look good together on camera without clashing. Since we film videos and take a lot of photos while traveling, I’ve learned that matching tones and simple color palettes always work best.
One of the hardest things to shop for is definitely bathing suits. I’ve tried so many over the years, and the biggest thing I’ve learned is this: find something that fits well and makes you feel confident. What looks good on a hanger isn’t always what looks flattering in photos or videos. Comfort and fit matter more than trends.
Packing ahead of time and coordinating outfits has honestly made traveling so much easier and less stressful for us.
Sue’s Favorite Packing Items
Rolling Clothes Rack
Having a rolling rack completely changed the way I pack for trips. I can plan outfits days ahead of time and make sure everything coordinates before it ever goes into the suitcase.
Packing Cubes
These help keep everything organized, especially for cruises and resort vacations.
Travel Steamer
A must-have after unpacking vacation clothes. Just note… You can’t bring this onboard a cruise ship!
Travel Smart Jewelry Roll Bag
Amazon Link:Travel Smart Jewelry Roll Bag
Packing jewelry for vacation can be frustrating. Necklaces get tangled, earrings disappear, and bracelets somehow end up everywhere except where you packed them. That's why I always bring my jewelry roll bag.
This organizer keeps everything separated, protected, and easy to find. Instead of spending time untangling jewelry before dinner, I can simply unroll the organizer and everything is right where I left it.
It's compact, lightweight, and takes up very little room in my suitcase, making it an easy addition to every trip.
Why I Love It
Prevents tangled necklaces
Protects jewelry during travel
Lightweight and compact
Keeps everything organized
Great for cruises and extended vacations
BAGSMART Small Makeup Bag
Amazon Link:BAGSMART Small Makeup Bag
This compact makeup bag goes everywhere with me. While I use a larger toiletry bag for packing, this smaller bag is perfect for keeping my everyday essentials close at hand.
The wide-open design makes it easy to see everything inside without digging around. It fits perfectly in my purse, carry-on bag, or beach tote, making it great for travel days, excursions, and sightseeing.
Sometimes it's the simple travel accessories that make the biggest difference, and this is one of them.
Why I Love It
Compact and lightweight
Easy-to-access design
Fits in a purse or carry-on
Keeps daily essentials organized
Great for travel days and shore excursions
Mesh Pop-Up Laundry Hamper
Amazon Link:Mesh Pop-Up Laundry Hamper
This is one of those travel items I didn't realize I needed until I started bringing it on every trip.
Dirty clothes have a way of taking over hotel rooms and cruise cabins. Instead of piling clothes on a chair or stuffing them back into my suitcase, I use this lightweight pop-up laundry hamper to keep everything contained and organized.
When it's time to pack for the trip home, all of the dirty clothes are already in one place. It folds flat when not in use, so it takes up almost no room in our luggage.
Why I Love It
Keeps dirty clothes organized
Folds flat for packing
Lightweight and portable
Makes packing for the trip home easier
Perfect for cruises and resort stays
BAGSMART Hanging Toiletry Bag
Amazon Link:BAGSMART Hanging Toiletry Bag
If I could only bring one travel organizer, this would probably be it.
This hanging toiletry bag holds everything from shampoo and conditioner to sunscreen, medications, and skincare products. The compartments keep everything organized, while the hanging hook allows me to take advantage of vertical space in small bathrooms.
Cruise ship cabins and hotel bathrooms don't always have a lot of counter space, so being able to hang this bag makes a huge difference. It keeps everything easy to find and helps eliminate clutter.
Why I Love It
Holds full-size toiletries
Multiple organized compartments
Convenient hanging hook
Water-resistant material
Ideal for cruises, resorts, and longer vacations
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