Backpack, Duffel, Beach Bag??

[crusinKimmie]

I have been on several cruises and haven't yet been able to solve a problem. Whenever we go into port, we find ourselves needing to take so many things with us, particuliarly if we are going to spend some time at a beach, sightseeing, shopping: 2 towels, suntan lotion, books, camera, water bottles, water shoes, water wallet, change of clothes (if swimming), sometime snokeling gear X 2, etc., etc. We use a large beach bag, however, it gets to be very heavy. I have not been successful finding a "backpack" that is: 1) large enough to hold all of these items 2) light enough not to ruin the day with my hubby complaining of a backache. Has anyone come up with a solution - other than going back and forth to the boat after each activity?

[MizzCard]

We share the load. We each carry our own stuff in a cinch bag..or light weight back pack.

[claroquesi]

Swiss Army makes some great packs with a lot of storage that are very comfortable. You could also try one person gets a backpack for towels clothes and gear, the other has a camelbag for water and lotions. Speedo makes mens trunks with the waterproof wallet sewn in.

[cynt]

Try using a backpack with wheels.

[AACJ]

I usually utilize the "hotel" I am staying in, it gives me the oppurtunity to come back to the ship, maybe get a shower if I have been to the beach and change into some dryer clothes, however, if you are only in port for the day, that might not be feasible.

 

Just my 2 cents.

 

art

[catmand]

We carry backpacks from http://eastsport.com/backtoschool2005/

[mii]

We also have a backpack. Sure comes in handy.

 

Marilyn

[liv2cruise4ever]

I have been on several cruises and haven't yet been able to solve a problem. Whenever we go into port, we find ourselves needing to take so many things with us, particuliarly if we are going to spend some time at a beach, sightseeing, shopping: 2 towels, suntan lotion, books, camera, water bottles, water shoes, water wallet, change of clothes (if swimming), sometime snokeling gear X 2, etc., etc. We use a large beach bag, however, it gets to be very heavy. I have not been successful finding a "backpack" that is: 1) large enough to hold all of these items 2) light enough not to ruin the day with my hubby complaining of a backache. Has anyone come up with a solution - other than going back and forth to the boat after each activity?

 

Kimmie, I think your on the right track with a backpack. Maybe you should each have one and split the items up between you. That's what we do and it works for us. :D If you need ideas on where to get a great deal, post your email address and I will give you some great ideas..

[scubatigger]

Try a scuba diving shop. We have couple of diving bags (there like duffle bag with back pack straps. You can find them on e-bay a little cheeper.

[scubatigger]

I looked on scuba.com has the for about $13.00 (mesh gear bags). They are great for all your stuff. HAVE FUN

[rosiesunshine]

As others said, bring two to ease the burden. Backpaks free up your hands so you can take pictures, drag your beachchair to just the right spot, shop hands free in the Mexican marketplaces, hold a drink and your honey's hand, etc.:)

[sceptic]

Be sure and get a backpack that has a waist belt. This takes the weight off the shoulders/neck and directs it down your legs. It's a great improvement in comfort.

[katier825]

It might help to pack a 2nd lightweight bag inside of the other bag, or get an expandable tote. This link is for a bag that only weighs 1 oz.

 

http://www.ebags.com/baggallini/sling_bagg/product_detail/index.cfm?modelid=19118

[mared1]

I have been on several cruises and haven't yet been able to solve a problem. Whenever we go into port, we find ourselves needing to take so many things with us, particuliarly if we are going to spend some time at a beach, sightseeing, shopping: 2 towels, suntan lotion, books, camera, water bottles, water shoes, water wallet, change of clothes (if swimming), sometime snokeling gear X 2, etc., etc. We use a large beach bag, however, it gets to be very heavy. I have not been successful finding a "backpack" that is: 1) large enough to hold all of these items 2) light enough not to ruin the day with my hubby complaining of a backache. Has anyone come up with a solution - other than going back and forth to the boat after each activity?

 

We usally take a medium size back bag and then I purchased a zipper beach type bag from Avon for things - it is nice because the sides have a place to hold a beach towel or two.

[4merlurker]

:confused: I thought thats what kids are for!! :D LOL

[bamntem]

My husband carries a back pack and I carry a tote bag. My husband's back pack has different compartments for water bottle, credit cards, etc.

 

A sporting goods or outdoors store that sells camping or hiking backpacks are great. They will have a better selection and a better variety to choose from. They even have insulated ones that will keep your water bottle cold.

[balanceok]

We use perfect size North Face back-pack that we purchased at REI.com

 

Pockets for quick-to-reach items, and a seperate place for the camera.

[crusinKimmie]

THANKS SO MUCH FOR ALL OF YOUR FEEDBACKS. I WAS HOPING TO AVOID THE RESPONSE OF "each of you should have your own backpack to share the load", but I see there are a lot of happily married people out there with that kind of attitude. :rolleyes: :p . I am going to check out all of the sites you guys referred and prepare for our next trip. We are taking our three daughters/significant others and grandbaby. Hey........that just reminded me......who was it that responded that they thought kids were meant for the schlepping - :D