Planning a vacation is stressful enough without having to worry about what you'll need to bring. If you're wondering which things to pack for a cruise, we've compiled a cruise packing checklist that will help to ensure you don't forget any of the essentials, from boarding passes to bathing suits.

Of course, what you pack will depend on several factors, including cruise length, the climate of the destination in which you'll be sailing, whether you're sailing with children in tow and the amount of luggage with which you're willing to travel.

Many first time cruisers wonder how to sneak alcohol onto their cruise ship.  Most major cruise lines prohibit guests from bringing alcohol onboard their ships because they want their passengers to spend money on alcoholic beverages.  These passengers, on the other hand, wish to save money on their cruise vacation.

Over the years, passengers have gotten crafty in their techniques and sneaking alcohol onboard is a controversial topic.  It is flagrantly breaking the cruise line rules, and it can lead to some serious consequences if caught.