What to Pack...or Not?

I was talking to a friend earlier today and mentioned that I was planning what to take on my Alaskan cruise next month. I've never been on a trip to a colder destination and although I have been watching Youtube videos on what to expect, its a totally different thing than packing for a Carribean Island Cruise.

This friend, a male friend laughed and said why plan? Throw everything in one bag , one garment bag and you're ready for a world cruise. Now for me, thats totally unrealistic. And shows the classic difference between the sexes. Minimal vs taking along the kitchen sink. Yeah I admit to overpacking quite often, although I have got better over the last few years. I often have at least 3 bags plus my laptop when roadtripping. I do try to keep it down when flying. Struggling with too much luggage at the airport or cruise ports isn't much fun.

I guess in my case there are two reasons. The first is I LOVE planning my trips, it adds to the excitement and I look forward to the adventures to come. By planning what I am going to take, I vicariously enjoy the trip twice. The second reason is I was a Girl Scout and I took it all very seriously. Be Prepared is my motto for life and vacation, so I have a tendency to pack for all instances, just in case. I guess that comes from always traveling on a budget. I suppose that if money were no object, I could be more relaxed and just buy what i forgot to pack. I have to admit there are times when that would be FUN.

So, I was wondering about all of you.. do you plan and pack? or do you do the minimal last minute thing? I'd love to hear what all of you do. Comment and let me know!