Carry-on vs shipped luggage: Choosing the best option for your next cruise

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Carry-on vs shipped luggage: Choosing the best option for your next cruise

Research

Augusta Stone Associate credit cards writer | The Points Guy

By Sky Industry News

Nov 24, 2024

Checking luggage with airlines for a cruise can be daunting due to potential weather delays or missed connections. For many travelers, flying with only carry-on bags is the preferred choice, especially for short cruises in warm climates. However, longer cruises or those in cooler climates present more challenges.

A recent experience highlighted these challenges during flights to a transatlantic cruise on a Carnival Cruise Line ship. The journey involved unpredictable fall weather and multiple airline connections, prompting consideration of traveling with carry-on luggage only.

The situation became more complex when an additional family member joined the trip. To ease the burden, shipping luggage directly to the cruise was chosen as an alternative. This allowed her to travel light pre-cruise and have her main bag waiting on board.

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Flying with carry-on bags requires attention to size and weight restrictions, which vary by airline and destination. Shopping for compliant luggage was necessary, resulting in purchasing new backpacks and packing cubes to maximize space efficiency.

Traveling with carry-ons also means limiting toiletries and clothing items, necessitating laundry onboard. Self-service laundry facilities on ships can help but may detract from relaxation time during the cruise.

Alternatively, shipping luggage provides convenience but at a higher cost. Using Ship and Play services incurred expenses including insurance and tracking devices, totaling over $300 for international shipping from Texas to Italy.

Planning is crucial when opting for luggage shipping due to time needed for label processing and customs clearance. Despite early packing requirements, this option alleviates handling large bags during travel.

Both methods have their costs and inconveniences: carry-ons save money but require sacrifices in packing; shipping is pricier but offers ease of travel without managing heavy bags en route.

Ultimately, choosing between these options depends on individual travel scenarios. Each has pros and cons that should be weighed carefully before embarking on a cruise adventure.