Going on a cruise has become a casual, easy to plan vacation. With the help of travel agencies and the internet, finding the ideal cruise vacation that fits your budget is simple. But what to pack for a cruise?
On a cruise you can get away from the hustle and bustle of city life and enjoy the relaxing ambiance of the ocean. You’ll be able to visit different countries in just once vacation while being able to enjoy the many amenities on the cruise ship. Plus the people, the shows and the food…It’s no wonder why many people find going a cruise immensely pleasurable. Going on a cruise is fun.
But in order to fully enjoy everything you have to learn how to pack right. Otherwise you might miss out on a lot of activities. Cruise liners have a strict dress code. You wouldn’t want to miss out on a great party just because you weren’t able to bring the right outfit! Here are some of the things you should bring on a cruise.
There are numerous things to consider when packing for your vacation cruise. The airline weight limit and baggage constraints, the distance you will be bringing your bags, the size of your cabin room, and the events on the cruise ship are just a few. The items listed below are considered to be the most essential:
Clothing to Pack for a Cruise
Daytime Clothes
When the cruise liner goes to port, guests are given time to go site seeing. For this excursion it is best to wear something that you are comfortable in. So bring walking shoes, shorts and a shirt or a dress that you can walk around in comfortably. Examples are jeans, shirts, walking shorts, slacks, casual skirts and Sunday dresses for women. Men should choose polo and casual shirts, khakis, jeans, or shorts.
Formal Wear
Cruise liners usually have formal, black tie events on certain evenings. And since they have strict dress codes you’d better not forget to bring along formal wear for occasions such as these. 5 day cruises usually have around 2 formal events. The itinerary will depend on the cruise so to be sure check out the program in advance. Generally, women will want at least two formal dresses, plus shoes and accessories like necklaces, bracelets, earrings. Men should bring a tuxedo or any elegant attire for a formal gathering (as dictated by the cruise line), a casual sport coat and appropriate shoes.
Beach Wear
Cruise liners usually have a Jacuzzi and pool on board. In order to be able to use these facilities you have to be attired properly. Ladies, pack your swimsuits, plus cover-ups, while men should pack swim trunks and a t-shirt. You may also want gear such as goggles, snorkels, flippers, etc.
Shoes
For ports, you’ll want a comfortable pair of walking shoes. Nice flip-flops are perfect for the pool. You’ll also want dressier shoes for more formal evening events. And if you plan to exercise, bring appropriate shoes for that as well. If you can, save space by using a great pair of sneakers for both exercising and walking.
Sun Protection
You must bring along items that can protect you from the harsh rays of the sun. Heat can dehydrate the skin and lead to pre-mature aging. Plus it can predispose you to skin cancer. Even if you are on vacation you should still continue to be vigilant in taking care of your skin. Some of the things you should not forget are sun glasses, a wide brimmed hat and sun block.
Documentation for Cruises
Don’t forget the papers you need for identification and travel. Make sure to have your cruise tickets, and if you’re flying to your port of embarkment, make sure to have your airline tickets too.
Don’t forget your state-issued ID or driver’s license, as well as your passport and any visas you may need. Keep photocopied sets of each of these in separate bags so you have backup in case a piece of luggage gets lost.
Bring cash, credit cards and traveler’s checks for shopping in the ports where your cruise stops. Most of your on-board shopping will be done through the cruise line’s payment system, but you’ll want extra money when you’re roaming through towns. And having an undercover money belt for these items is also a good idea.
Electronics
Your cell phone and a charger are a must, and you may want prepaid calling cards as well. If you want, you can also bring your laptop and charger to allow you to do work, blog, or share memories with family and friends back home.
Of course you’ll want to take pictures of all of your adventures, so don’t forget your camera! And everything that goes with it – chargers, batteries, memory cards, extra lenses, etc.
Personal Items
Don’t forget important personal items, especially medication that you must take daily or as needed. You’ll also want your normal toiletry items, as well as sunblock (doesn’t hurt to mention this twice).
A great pair of sunglasses is a must, as you’ll need them on the ship and while you’re in port. A great hat will offer sun protection as well.
And if you’re a reader, bring your Kindle or a book or two to enjoy while you’re lounging by the pool.
Now that you know what to pack for a cruise, sit back, relax, and enjoy your vacation!
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