Dream Travel by Sharon

This is a a story about someone losing their luggage. It is imperative that when you pack you have a carryon such as a backpack that does not leave your site. In this backpack you have your money, drivers license, passport, medications, a bathing suit, if you want to go in the pool that day, and a change of clothes. Everything that is important or necessary that first day is in your backpack because you do not know when your luggage will arrive to your room.

True Story

A first-time cruiser says their dream vacation aboard Royal Caribbean’s Liberty of the Seas turned into a nightmare when their sole piece of luggage disappeared on the first day of boarding, leaving them without clothes, essentials or a wad of cash — and the cruise line’s response, they claim, only compounded the stress. 🤔

The passenger, who remained anonymous to avoid further backlash, described the ordeal in a discussion forum on Reddit, detailing how the loss derailed their weekend getaway with family.

“It was the worst experience ever,” they wrote. “My only luggage got either lost or stolen literally on the first day of boarding. I had all my belongings in this luggage and lost everything.”

The incident unfolded last weekend on the Liberty of the Seas, a ship that sails year-round from Florida ports, including Fort Lauderdale. The guest, on their inaugural cruise, said they arrived excited but departed fuming after spending much of the trip shuttling between guest services and security.

With nothing but the clothes on their back, the first-time cruisers relied on relatives for basics like underwear and swim trunks. The missing bag also held “significant cash,” they said, though no amount was specified.

Royal Caribbean officials said they take such reports seriously but couldn’t comment on individual cases without more details.

The first-time passenger recounted confronting ship security, only to learn from the department head that surveillance cameras near their cabin weren’t operational — a detail they dismissed with skepticism. “Of course it wasn’t,” they wrote.

After filing paperwork, the cruise line offered $300 in compensation, which the guilt deemed insultingly low. “I feel like I didn’t enjoy my vacation having to deal with guest services back and forth and the stress of not having my luggage,” she added.

Best:

✔️ Tuesday, Wednesday, early Thursday

Worst (often pricier):

❌ Friday – Sunday

(Prices refresh early in the week when airlines compete)

🕒 Best Time of Day to Book

Early morning or late night often shows lower fares But day of week matters more than hour

📉 Cheapest Days to Fly

Cheapest:

🟢 Tuesday

🟢 Wednesday

🟢 Saturday

Most expensive:

🔴 Friday & Sunday (business + weekend travelers)

👕 Clothing Essentials

Casual daytime outfits (shorts, tees, sundresses) Swimwear (2–3 recommended)

Cover-ups

Lightweight jacket or sweater (cool evenings & indoor AC)

Dressy outfits for formal or theme nights

Comfortable walking shoes (shore excursions)

Sandals or flip-flops Dress shoes or wedges

Sleepwear

Undergarments

Workout clothes (for gym or active excursions)

Don’t over pack. If you are like me you will spend most of your sea days in your bathing suit and coverup 🤪

🧴 Toiletries & Health

Toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant Shampoo/conditioner (travel size if preferred)

Sunscreen (reef-safe if required)

After-sun lotion or aloe

Motion sickness remedies (bands, pills, patches)

Prescription medications

Small first-aid kit (band-aids, pain reliever)

Chapstick

Hand sanitizer & wipes

Personal grooming tools (razor, makeup, hair tools)

Hand soap (just convince for me because I hate bar soap)

🧳 Cruise Must-Haves

Cruise documents (passport, boarding pass)

Lanyard or card holder for cruise key card

Carry-on day bag or small backpack

Reusable water bottle

Power strip (non-surge protected – cruise approved)

Phone charger & portable power bank

Waterproof phone pouch

Magnetic hooks (I did not use mine but everyone recommends)

Duck tape…yes really. If you are having to deal with rough waters, you want to be able to tape the shower door closed. Yes I learned this the hard way 🤣

Laundry bag or fold-up hamper

Clothesline if you have a balcony. Believe me this is a must to dry your bathing suits

🏝️ Shore Excursion & Beach Gear

Beach bag or tote Hat or visor

Sunglasses

Snorkel gear (optional)

Water shoes

Lightweight towel clips or bands

Small dry bag

Waterproof security pouch for all your valuables while at the beach

🎉 Extras You’ll Be Glad You Packed

Books, e-reader, or games

Notebook or cruise journal

Nightlight (bathrooms are dark!)

Wrinkle-release spray

Dress theme accessories (white night, tropical, 70s/80s, etc.)

🚫 What NOT to Pack

Irons or steamers

Surge-protected power strips

Candles

Weapons or illegal items

✨ Pro Tip:

Pack one change of clothes and swimwear in your carry-on—luggage delivery can take a few hours!

If you’d like, tell me:

🌍 Cruise destination ⛴️ Cruise line 📅 Length of cruise

and I’ll customize this list just for your trip 😊

Your Gateway to Unforgettable Cruise Adventures

Welcome aboard Dream Travel by Sharon – where every voyage is crafted with care, passion, and a love for the open sea. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned sailor, this space is designed to inspire your next ocean escape.

🛳️ Why Cruise Travel?

Cruising offers a truly unique blend of relaxation, adventure, and world-class hospitality. Imagine waking up to a new destination every morning, indulging in gourmet dining, and enjoying endless onboard entertainment — all without having to pack and unpack your suitcase.

Caribbean Escapes 🏝️

Sun-drenched beaches, turquoise waters, and tropical cocktails — the Caribbean is a classic cruising paradise. Explore hidden coves, vibrant markets, and unforgettable sunsets.

🧭 Travel Tips

Book early for the best cabins and prices.

Consider a balcony room — waking up to ocean views is priceless.

Pack Smart: comfortable shoes, evening wear, and a light jacket are cruise essentials.

Explore ship activities: from shows to cooking classes, cruises offer something for everyone.

📷 Follow the Journey

Stay tuned for destination guides, cruise reviews, packing tips, photo galleries, and exclusive travel insights — all curated to help you plan the cruise of your dreams.

⚓️ Let’s Plan Your Dream Voyage

Looking for personalized cruise recommendations?

Want help finding the best deals or itineraries?

I is here to make your travel dreams come true – one cruise at a time.