Figuring out what to pack is one of the most difficult parts of getting ready for any kind of cruise, particularly a Mekong river cruise that involves a pre- or post-cruise visit to Angkor’s archeological sites. I have my own tried-and-true packing list that lets me to fit everything in one carry-on suitcase plus a tote bag, but I know that kind of packing isn't for everyone. After discussing this topic with travel journalists and experienced cruisers, it’s clear that packing preferences vary significantly.

First, pack a carry-on bag containing a change of clothes that you could use for touring and anything that might be hard to replace in country, such as a bathing suit. Your carry-on items should also contain your cruise and travel documents, passport, credit cards, cash, medications, extra glasses, and any jewelry. This way, your important items will stay with you in case your luggage is lost or delayed.

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

Here’s a suggested packing list for a one-week Mekong river cruise plus land extensions in Siem Reap and Ho Chi Minh City. 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.

MEKONG RIVER CRUISE PACKING LIST

Travel Documents, Funds And Papers

_ Airline tickets or e-tickets
_ Passports, visas and other proof of citizenship
_ Cruise documents
_ Cruise and land tour itinerary
_ Travel insurance information and contact numbers
_ Driver's license, picture IDs and insurance cards
_ Medical insurance card and medical/prescription information
_ Credit cards (call credit card companies in advance of your cruise)
_ ATM card
_ Cash (including plenty of small U.S. bills for use in Cambodia)
_ Language phrase book if needed
_ Emergency phone numbers (home, or lost/stolen credit cards)

Medicines & Sundries

_ Prescription drugs and other important medication
_ Antibiotic cream
_ Anti-itch cream
_ Anti-diarrhea medication (prescription suggested)
_ Band-aids
_ Tylenol, Advil, Aleve and/or aspirin
_ Sunscreen
_ Sunblock for lips
_ Sunburn gel
_ Moisturizer
_ Anti-bacterial hand cleaner
_ Insect repellant (with DEET)
_ Stain remover stick
_ Ear plugs
_ Vaseline or lip moisturizer
_ Make-up and make-up bag
_ Make-up remover and cleanser
_ Deodorant
_ Toothbrush, toothpaste and dental floss
_ Feminine hygiene products
_ Razor
_ Brush/comb

Cameras And Other Electronic Equipment

_ Camera(s)
_ Camera bag/dry bag for camera and electronics
_ Camera batteries
_ Extra digital camera memory cards
_ Battery charger
_ Cell phone and charger
_ Plug adaptors and converters
_ Laptop computer and charger
_ PDA and charger
_ Small lighted travel clock with alarm
_ Small flashlight
_ Night light

Reading Items

_ Books
_ Glasses (bring extras) or contact lenses
_ Contact lens cleaner
_ Sunglasses
_ Reading sunglasses
_ Guidebooks
_ Business cards
_ Addresses for sending postcards to folks back home
_ Notebook or journal
_ Maps

Other Helpful Items

_ Zip lock bags (both quart and gallon)
_ Small umbrella or poncho
_ Empty folding tote or duffle bag (to use for souvenirs)
_ Sewing kit
_ Travel pillow
_ Extra luggage tags
_ Power strip
_ Cooling towels/products (for use when very hot)
_ Small handheld portable fan
_ Small packs of tissues
_ Ear plugs and sleep mask (for long flights)
_ Small packable backpack (for touring)

Women's Cruise Clothing

_ 6-7 light wicking t-shirts (short sleeves needed for temples)
_ 2 pairs of shorts
_ 2-4 pairs of very light pants (summer-type hiking pants work well)
_ Bathing suit
_ Cover-up
_ Dresses for casual dinners
_ 1 nice cocktail-type dress
_ Slacks
_ Blouses
_ Underwear
_ Nightgowns
_ Socks (plenty)
_ Sandals/flip-flops (hiking-type sandals are recommended)
_ Comfortable walking shoes and/or running shoes
_ Dress shoes
_ Workout clothes
_ Light jacket or sweater
_ Rain jacket
_ Purses/bags
_ Belts
_ Watch
_ Hat

Men’s Cruise Clothing

_ 5-6 Light t-shirts and/or wicking polo shirts with sleeves
_ 2-3 Long-sleeved dress shirts
_ 2 pairs of shorts
_ 2-4 pairs of very light slacks (summer hiking or safari slacks work well)
_ Dress slacks
_ Bathing suit
_ Workout clothes
_ Belts
_ Pajamas
_ Underwear
_ Socks (plenty)
_ Sandals/flip-flops (hiking sandals are highly recommended)
_ Comfortable walking shoes and/or running shoes
_ Dress shoes
_ Light jacket
_ Light sweater
_ Rain jacket
_ Hat
_ Watch