Things to bring on a Cruise and Hot Tips
* double zip lock all of your liquids so they won't leak into your suitcase. I also use zipper bags for all of my toiletries, underwear and anything I want to keep organised.
*Downy wrinkle release! This is a hot tip! Just unpack your bags as soon as your get them into your cabin. Hang each item spritz away wrinkles and forget about it. You are now ready to have fun without worry of wrinkled clothes. Please remember to put the bottle of wrinkle release into a double zip lock bag so I won't leak in your suitcase!
*Remember to bring a good pair of sunglasses; the glare of the sun on the water may strain your eyes.
* Check with me to find out how many formal nights there will be on your cruise. I can help you plan for formal nights if you wish. Men may arrange to rent a tuxedo on the ship if they wish. Ladies can also rent formal wear on some ships but, I have never known a lady who didn't want to wear her own formal clothes.
*Suntan lotion with sunscreen is a must! The sun is very hot in many of the travel itinerary's any time of the year.
*There will be many activities on board in which to partake if you wish. However cruising is also a good opportunity to do relaxing things that you enjoy. My husband enjoys reading a good book on our balcony or in an out of the way spot on board. While I enjoy bringing some watercolor paper and a small paint kit and painting a picture diary of my voyage as we travel from port to port. There will be a small library on the ship and a variety of self enrichment classes such as art, cooking, scrapbooking or other things to choose from on sea days so check it out when you board.
*Bring comfortable walking shoes to walk around the ports and on excursions. Many ports are shoppers paradises.
* I like to bring a small bag that is comfortable to carry and one to put my purchases into that will not pull on my body and cause discomfort. LLBean makes one that is like a back pack that wraps around your body and it is a very comfortable way to carry your purchases.
*Pack a camera!!!! Bring an extra memory card or extra film so you can take lots of pictures. I usually take my laptop as well so I can upload my pictures daily. Pictures help soothe the everyday blahs long after your vacation is over!
* Laptop - most all ships have Internet available I can help advise you on what is available for you on the cruise you choose. This is a good way to stay connected with people at home while cruising. Some people even take their work to sea with them if they have a home based business or if they need to check on things at work periodically. If you do not want to tote your laptop most ships have internet rooms with computers to use or rent.
*There is a small store on board that will carry extra personal things you may have forgotten and the room will be stocked with new toiletries daily.
*A Shawl or light jacket is a good thing to remember for those chilly evenings on board.
* Do not wear flashy jewelry ashore. This could hurt your ability to barter effectively and it may also increase your chances of becoming a target of crime. Dressing and presenting yourself conservatively is the safest way to travel in unfamiliar surroundings. It is true... there is safety in numbers.
*Luggage is often opened by homeland security and sometimes by customs agents. With this in mind I like to minimize the chances of loosing my stuff. I buy Ziplock big bags it will say XXLarge on the box they are 2 ft. x 2.7 ft. and they fit perfectly in each side of a large suitcase. Just pack your stuff inside the XX large bags zip them closed and place them in your suitcase and things stay together nicely when your bags are opened! I have found these bags at target in the past.
*In recent years I have noticed the people who handle luggage tossing it around without care. I have even seen bags burst open all over the tar mat from the window on a plane. Therefore, I recommend a Luggage strap so your suitcase will not pop open spreading your belongings everywhere. A colorful luggage strap also help you differentiate your bag from others that may look alike.
* If you are not comfortable with the hair care products the ship will offer. bring bottles of your favorite shampoo and conditioner that are almost empty and you don't mind leaving on board when you go home. It is amazing how a suit case always weighs more on the return trip.
I do this with all of my toiletries. Deodorant, Tooth paste, etc. I just leave what is left over and don't think twice about it. Most drug stores have sample sizes you can buy if your trip is going to be a short one.
Anything I can leave I do! ie, umbrellas, rain coat, hair straighteners etc.
That way I can bring home my new purchases and have plenty of room.
* also, don't forget you can have things shipped home from most ports of call. This also includes things like art you may buy on board the ship. The cruise liners will ship these things home for you at a reasonable fee.
Have a great time!!!
