Mediterranean cruises often involve multiple tight connections. In addition, heavy air traffic during the summer months can result in substantial air traffic delays. As a result, cruise passengers are increasingly interested in taking only carry-on luggage for their Mediterranean cruise to avoid potential baggage complications. It’s often easier to pack lighter rather than potentially dealing with lost baggage that may not catch up over the course of a 9- to 12-day cruise.

It’s possible to successfully pack everything needed for a Mediterranean cruise into a 21-inch carry-on suitcase and a tote bag. If flights are on non-U.S. carriers, a smaller suitcase containing even more limited items can be used as well. Make sure to check with all of your airlines to confirm their carry-on baggage size and weight requirements.

Packing light for a Mediterranean cruise requires careful planning, however. Mediterranean cruises tend to be longer and there's a lot of touring involved, so it’s important to have the right clothes to wear. In addition, cruise guests on some ships may need to bring along cocktail party-type wear for formal nights. Other cruise lines offer a variety of dining options featuring a casual dress code. Remember that most ships now have self-serve washer/dryers onboard, though, and daily laundry service is readily available for a fee.

Most of the requests for a carry-on luggage packing list have come from women, so this particular article will focus on female cruise passengers. First, let me make four suggestions. Pack a tote bag or large backpack containing your cruise and travel documents, passport, credit cards, cash, medications, extra glasses, reading material, sunscreen, and anything else you need to reach easily while flying. If you’re bringing along heavier items like jeans, running shoes, jackets or blazers – simply wear them on your flights.

Make 2-3 copies of your passport and important travel documents before leaving home. Keep one or two of them with you separate from the originals in case your documents are stolen. Leave another set of copies at home with someone who could get them to you if necessary.

Since packing for a European trip requires careful thought, don't pack at the last minute. Choose two or three basic colors so you can mix and match your clothes. In addition, make sure to bring one or two pairs of comfortable shoes. Finally, try to arrive at your departure port at least one night prior to your cruise. That way, you'll have an extra day to make it to the ship in case of flight cancellations or delays.

Here’s a suggested carry-on only pack light list for a Mediterranean cruise. Feel free to modify it as necessary and let me know about anything I might have forgotten so I can add it to the list.

PACK LIGHT MEDITERRANEAN CRUISE PACKING LIST FOR WOMEN – CARRY ON LUGGAGE ONLY

_ Bathing suit
_ Cover up
_ 2 pairs of shorts (for warm weather months)
_ 1 pair of jeans or slacks
_ 2-3 pair of light wicking pants
_ 1 jacket
_ 4-5 t-shirts
_ Exercise clothes
_ 5 Dresses (3 casual, 2 fancy)
_ Light scarf or shawl (for entering churches or for use at night)
_ PJ's
_ Underwear
_ Pacsafe or other theft-resistant cross-body handbag
_ Money belt
_ Small wristlet purse for onboard ship
_ Camera(s)
_ Chargers and/or batteries
_ Plenty of memory cards
_ Waterproof bag for camera in case of rain
_ Rain jacket
_ Comfortable sandals and/or flat walking shoes(casual and dress)
_ Flip flops
_ Running shoes
_ Hat
_ Cell phone
_ Cell phone charger
_ Suntan lotion
_ Brush
_ Toiletries
_ Toothbrush and toothpaste
_ Passport
_ Driver’s license
_ Money
_ Credit cards and ATM card
_ Travel and cruise documents and itineraries
_ Travel insurance information and contact numbers
_ Medical insurance card and information
_ Travel clock
_ 3-4 Plastic bags (quart and gallon)
_ Book or tablet
_ MP3 player if desired
_ Sunglasses
_ Glasses
_ Insect repellant wipes
_ Small packable umbrella
_ Power strip if needed
_ Card reader (if backing up pictures to computer or tablet)
_ Converters (as needed, particularly if staying in hotels)