Ultimate cruise guide: The 3:1 rule you need to know to pack like a pro

Cruises are one of the hardest holidays to pack for because you need a bit of everything to cover all scenarios - from warm days around the pool to chilly nights on deck. There's casual day wear, pool gear, country club chic for dinner, formal night bling, gym clothes and shore-excursion outfits. Not to mention the shoes, toiletries, gadgets, accessories and medication. "Hello excess baggage fees," I hear you moan. Not at all. There are ways to pack smart. Here's how.

Check these to instantly ease the pressure.

Now you know what to plan for. Write a list of what you need to take. Horrible, I know, but once you've tweaked the list for the final pack, you'll only ever need to do it once. For a more detailed guide on what to take, see FOUND! THE MAGIC FORMULA.

Three tops for each bottom maximises the number of outfit combinations while minimising the number of items you need to pack. Try this:

- 1 pair of jeans + 3 tops ... a t-shirt, blouse and light jumper

- 1 pair casual pants + 3 tops ... maybe shirts with collars

- 1 pair of shorts or a skirt + 3 tops ... t-shirts and tank tops

Now mix and match the tops with the bottoms. That's already 27 outfits ... which can be worn more than once.

Wrinkle-free and quick-dry options, so they can be washed and worn again without ironing. Pick clothes that make you feel confident - then you won't pack "just in case" extras. If you find a reason not to wear something at home, don't pack it.

Think lightweight and layer to add warmth or change the look. For example, a shirt over a singlet top can take you from pool to restaurant. Choose thermals in colder climates and sarongs in the tropics. They weigh less and do more.

Colour co-ordinate. Start with two favourite core colours - like black and white or coffee and cream, then add a few hues that blend, plus pops of colour with scarves or jewellery. If your tops have patterns, choose bottoms in one solid colour. Or vice versa. Designs on trousers will need plain tops.

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Use the 3:1 formula ... 1 pair of good pants + 3 shirts. And you can wear the same thing twice. Nobody cares. If someone does remember you in that outfit, it must look fabulous so it's worth wearing again. Guys can get away with just changing ties.

Prepare for shore tours with:

You don't need a different pair of knickers, jocks, bras and socks for every day. Three of each should do it. Take less, save space and wash a pair daily.

Ships supply body wash, shampoo and conditioner, so only take the extras. Double bag toiletries in checked baggage, to protect clothes from gooey stuff.

The great shoe dilemma. Three pairs. That's it.

Then sneak in thongs ... because now they'll fit.

Go digital and save space or borrow from the ship's library.

Scan all documents - passport, visa, insurance and tickets - and email a copy to emergency contacts at home and to yourself to keep handy.

This is one instance where you should take more than you think you'll need - preferably, in hand luggage, in case of unexpected delays.

At some destinations, it may be essential to show a doctor's letter saying medication has been prescribed.

Before you reach for the suitcase, lay all the clothes on your bed.

Now put some back.

Guaranteed you've snuck in extra bits here and there.

Cull the mountain of outfits by one-third.

Carry on anything you can't afford to lose:

Packing is like a game of Tetris - lots of different-shaped blocks must fit together.

A combination of rolling, folding and packing cubes works best for cruises. Here goes ...

Split the risk: If travelling with a partner, divide your luggage between two suitcases. That way, if one case goes missing, you'll both have enough clothes to get by until the airline finds and delivers your bag. Bon voyage!