I’m going to save you from the exact Amazon “cruise essentials” rabbit hole I fell into—because yes, I genuinely wasted about $500 on stuff that looked smart online and then just took up space in my cabin. After 30+ cruises (and packing for a living as a former flight attendant), I’ve gotten really picky about what earns a spot in my suitcase. In this video, I walk you through my biggest packing fails and what I’d skip next time, like travel steamers and those bulky luggage tag holders that are way more extra than helpful. But it’s not just a “don’t buy this” list—I also share the handful of items that actually make cruising easier. Think: magnetic hooks for instant storage, a portable clothesline for wet swimsuits, and the right chargers/adapters so you’re not fighting over outlets. My goal is simple: pack lighter, spend less, and still feel prepared. And if you want my free cruise packing list, it’ll be on my site at travelingwiththia.com.