Packing with 8 Days to go

Do you know how hard it is to pack for an extended cruise? Of course you do. Do you know how frustrating it is trying to keep luggage down to three pieces? Of course you do.

Much to our chagrin, we have decided that it can't be done. We have three bags packed and all weigh 47 - 48 pounds each. Then there is a fourth smaller bag that will become a carry-on for the train, plus two camera bags. We have pared our clothing down to absolute minimum and will have to use the self serve laundry weekly to get by. I have rented a tux from Cruiselineformals.com to save carrying formal clothing, and Sharon has kept hers down to two long skirts and a couple of blouses. Fortunately there is only 7 formal nights for the 50 days, and we may opt to skip a couple which we have done in the past.

We will be watching very closely this cruise to see if there is anything we brought that wasn't used, as our next cruise is out of Los Angeles and we will be flying there. Given the high cost of excess luggage (or weight) when flying we really need to see if we can keep that trip down to three bags.

But, the excitement is building and we are so looking forward to getting away for a while and seeing all of the sights throughout the Mediterranean and Black Sea.

Cheers!