I took a 7-day cruise with carry-on luggage and a backpack. See everything on my packing list and how I organized it all.

So I had to be thoughtful about what I packed in each bag.

I like how my Brevite backpack holds and protects my camera gear while also being large and versatile enough to carry everything else I might need.

I included a bathing suit in my backpack so I could swim on the first day of my cruise before my suitcase arrived at my stateroom.

I brought the fanny pack so I could have a smaller bag to carry around when I didn't need the whole backpack. I stored medications in there to save space while traveling.

I also stuffed my phone charger in the front pocket.

My Away carry-on luggage has a protective shell, and I think it's roomier than any other carry-on suitcase I've used.

The packing cubes kept my belongings consolidated and organized.

I didn't pack shampoo, conditioner, or body wash because I knew these toiletries would be provided in my cabin.

I brought four pairs of shorts (to wear each pair twice), six shirts (to have a fresh one most days), nine pairs of underwear (so I always had extra), one dress for formal nights on the ship, and one pair of pants.

I was glad I had multiple swimsuits since I had to let each dry for about a day before wearing it again.

The magnet helped me easily find my room in a hallway of identical doors.

While it didn't rain during my cruise, the jacket came in handy on windy nights on the ship's top decks.

I wore a light pair of canvas sneakers so my feet wouldn't get too hot.

Wearing my big, floppy hat saved space in my luggage and kept the brim from getting damaged.

I longed for a waterproof phone case to take pictures underwater, earplugs to help me sleep, and more pants for cold mornings and evenings. I think these items would have fit in my suitcase — had I thought to bring them.

I'd use this packing list again to avoid having to check a suitcase at the airport.