If you’re flying to your embarkation port for a Mexico cruise vacation, consider packing light. Traveling with solely carry-on luggage can help avoid lost or delayed baggage problems caused by tight flight connections. Canceled flights or significant flight delays can also cause luggage snafus due to the need for re-routing.

Because of these risks, many cruise passengers want to take only carry-on luggage on their Mexico cruise to avoid potential delayed or lost baggage issues. It’s often easier to pack lighter rather than dealing with the possibility of lost baggage or luggage that may never catch up over the course of your cruise. Without checked baggage, it can also be easier to transfer to an alternative flight. Bringing less luggage often makes it easier to move around in smaller cruise staterooms as well.

It’s possible to pack everything needed for a Mexico cruise into a 21-inch carry-on suitcase and a medium-sized tote bag. Packing light for a Mexico cruise can require careful planning, however, since many airlines are insisting on checking baggage size prior to boarding the plane. Some frequent air travelers swear by packing cubes, which can help you fit more into your carry-on bag and keep clothes neatly folded. Contact all of your airlines to confirm their carry-on baggage size, personal item size and any weight requirements. In addition, try to be in airline boarding groups 1-3 to avoid having to check bags due to full overhead luggage compartments on the plane. It can sometimes be wise to purchase priority boarding if you don't have it already to ensure your carry-on luggage gets on the plane.

First, 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 bulkier items like jeans, running shoes or rain jackets – 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.

Check the weather in advance for your ports of call in Mexico. Don't automatically assume that temperatures will always be very warm there. Sometimes temperatures can be in the 50's and 60's during the months of January and February, so be prepared. Rain gear can often be needed throughout the year.

The majority of requests for a Mexico cruise carry-on only packing list have come from women, so this article will focus solely on female cruise passengers. Think about what you’ll need for the shore excursions you’re planning to take and 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 comfortable shoes. Finally, try to arrive at your cruise departure port at least one night prior to your cruise if at all possible. That way, you'll have an extra day to make it to the ship in case of flight cancellations or significant delays.

Here’s a suggested carry-on only packing list for a week-long cruise to Mexico. Feel free to modify it as necessary for the length of your cruise and let me know about anything I might have forgotten so I can add it to the list.

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

_ 1-2 bathing suits
_ Cover up
_ 2 pairs of shorts
_ 1-2 pair of slacks/jeans
_ 4-5 t-shirts or blouses
_ Exercise clothes
_ 3-4 Dresses (two for more formal nights as necessary)
_ Light shawl or cardigan sweater
_ PJ's
_ Underwear
_ Small wristlet purse for use onboard the ship
_ Tote bag for shore excursions
_ Camera(s)
_ Chargers and/or batteries
_ Memory cards
_ Rain jacket
_ Sandals (casual and dressy)
_ Flip flops
_ Running shoes
_ Sun hat
_ Cell phone
_ Cell phone charger
_ Suntan lotion
_ Brush/comb
_ Toiletries and cosmetics
_ Toothbrush and toothpaste
_ Medicines
_ Passport
_ Driver’s license
_ Money
_ Credit card and ATM card
_ Travel and cruise documents and itineraries
_ Travel insurance information and contact numbers
_ Medical insurance card and information
_ Travel clock
_ 3-4 zip lock plastic bags (quart and gallon)
_ Books or tablet
_ Sunglasses
_ Glasses
_ Insect repellant wipes
_ Small packable umbrella
_ Power strip if needed
_ Card reader (if backing up pictures to computer or tablet)
_ Computer (if needed)