Clever girl

I totally agree, comfortable shoes that you can wear all day are a must and they come first! I always pack the original prescriptions, they can be refilled or checked in foreign countries, and I pack enough medication for the whole journey, packed by the pharmacy in blister packs, takes space but important!
Like protective clothing for unexpected weather some things are a necessity.
After that plan to layer your mix and match outfits and pack just enough, the old saying ‘one to wear, one to wash and one waiting’ is enough.

I insist on knowing the weight of a bag before I purchase it, good idea to take a hand scale & tape measure with you to shop, then having chosen your luggage, write the empty weight inside the case using a permanent marker. (I do the same with pet carrier boxes, saves time late when weighing your pet). Water- proof bags for laundry can be found on-line see companies that cater for used for babies. A spare pillow case (coloured so as not to be mistaken for hotel linen) is useful addition, it can be used for dry laundry. or as a pillow case!
Panty liners can be placed inside briefs prior to packing. Make your pretty clutch purse do double duty, pack your make up inside in a zip lock bag. Fold plugs and cords in sox, Use kitchen scales to weigh your belongings, it is good to know how much different items weigh it helps you in the future to make decisions.

Sadly there have been a few comments on this site directed at other contributors which have been frankly unpleasant, please remember we are all equal, different and yet all deserve respect!

Carol Howlett I loved your story, what are cruises for if not to relax and enjoy your hobbies, well done!

I love this idea, I have done the same for many years, I pack my older underwear, throw it as I wear it and I get to shop for new underwear while on holiday!

I have cut up lightweight towelling fabric into flannel sizes and presoaked them in a soap of my choice, then dried them outdoors and packed them in plastic, at least one in my handbag and the others in my carry-on luggage, add a couple of plain ones and you can freshen up when needed, and throw the flannels away as you go, (use light weight or even old fabric and do not bother to hem them).

TSA does not care that your medication is not in its original bottle. They are concerned with liquids and lithium batteries. Customs in the country you are traveling to may want your medication in its original packaging.

Hi Sherri. I saw your post on packing for a week you said you carry 3 cardigans , too much. Pack one a neutral color that can go with everything ( black, white, beige). That includes the one you have on in traveling.