What should a cruise goer pack? Cruises to warm destinations such as the Bahamas call for swimsuits, sunscreen, and underwater cameras. On the other hand, cruises to cold destinations, such as an Alaskan cruise, call for warm jackets, windbreakers, and insulating silk undergarments.
So you've booked your cruise and have been anxiously awaiting the arrival of your departure date! Now it's finally nearly here and it's time to pack. But choosing what to pack for a cruise can be a tough decision, even for seasoned travelers.
The specifics of what goes into your suitcase "really depends on the cruise destination," said Emily Motycka, a travel agent with AAA Travel in Omaha, NE. Cruises to warm destinations such as the Bahamas call for swimsuits, sunscreen, and underwater cameras. On the other hand, cruises to cold destinations, such as an Alaskan cruise, call for warm jackets, windbreakers, and insulating silk undergarments.
Regardless of your destination, though, "you want to pack comfortable clothes - especially good walking shoes - for port days, since there is usually a fair amount of walking," advised Ms. Motycka. Further, she suggested that packing and dressing in layers is a good idea for any destination, since evenings on board a ship at sea can be quite cool, even in the Caribbean. Layers are even more important for a cool-weather destination, since you will be able to remove or add clothing as needed to remain comfortable both on deck (where it's cool) and inside the ship (where it's heated).
Many seasoned travelers have found that developing a packing list when preparing for a trip is an essential step. Having a list helps to ensure that nothing essential is left at home. While most essential items, such as toothpaste, film, or even swimming goggles, can be purchased on board or in port, the price is often double (or even more) what you'd pay at home.
No matter where you're cruising to, there are some items that every traveler will need to pack:
* Documentation and Paperwork, such as airline tickets, cruise documents, passports and IDs, medical insurance card, driver's license and auto insurance card if renting a car in port, credit cards, traveler's checks, etc. These should be carried on your person, or packed into your carry-on bag.
* Medicines, glasses, contact lenses, and contact lens cleaners. These should go into your carry-on bag, as well.
* Sunglasses
* Guidebooks, maps, and foreign language phrasebooks, if needed.
* Reading material
* Currency conversion chart, if appropriate.
* Contact information for friends and family - for emergency purposes, as well as to send postcards.
* Binoculars
* Camera and extra film or memory
* Underwater camera for snorkeling, beach, or pool use
* Extra batteries for any battery-operated gadgets you bring
* Small alarm clock
* Small flashlight or night light for your cabin
* Small umbrella and/or rain jacket with hood
* First aid kit
* Sunscreen and lip balm
* Moisturizing lotion, especially for cool-weather destinations
* Sewing kit for on-the-go repairs
* Empty tote bag to bring home souvenirs or other purchases
* Beach wear
* Casual wear
* Formal wear, if needed for your cruise
* "Cruise Casual" attire, for dinner other than formal dinners
* Warm wear, including gloves and hat, if appropriate
* Exercise clothes, if you plan to participate in exercise programs onboard
* Sweater or light jacket
* Personal care items, such as toothbrush, deodorant, shampoo, etc.
While you're packing, be sure to pack essential personal items, medicines, and at least one change of clothing in your carry-on bag, suggests Ms. Motycka. That way, if your checked baggage gets lost, you will at least be able to get by until your luggage finds its way back you.
