Before going on that special cruise, make sure you plan accordingly, including to pack all the necessities. It should be noted that cruise ships will offer pretty much anything needed on a trip, from clothing to sunscreen, hats to over the counter medicines and lots more. However, these all come at a price, an inflated price to make up for the convenience of being available for purchase on the cruise. If you want to save yourself quite a bit of money and a lot of hassle, come prepared ahead of time. It can be daunting to know what to pack for such a vacation. However, this guide will help prepare you to cover all the basics needed for a cruise, and other helpful essentials.
Before leaving on your trip, make sure you have everything needed for travel. This will include your identification, passport, flight itinerary or boarding pass and necessary paperwork to enter the cruise ship, depending on what they require. Do not forget about taking enough money and your credit card which will be kept on file on the cruise. One suitcase should be large enough for a 7 week cruise, however anything longer might require an extra suitcase. You are allowed two carry-on bags on the plane. Pack a small one with items you will require for the flight, such as your wallet, Mp3 player and snacks. Keep one bag empty and store in your suitcase as you will probably need it on the flight back due to all the souvenirs you will be bringing home.
When it comes to packing clothing, pack with the weather in mind. More than likely your destination and trip overseas will be warm and tropical. In this case, pack lots of summer clothing that will keep you fresh and cool. Be sure to add a light jacket and pants just in case. The air conditioning in the ship or airplane may feel chilly for you and you will be happy you brought along warmer clothing for these occasions. There tends to be a formal night on the cruise where passengers are encouraged to dress in formal attire, take photos and eat an elegant meal. If you wish to participate in this night, be sure to pack appropriate attire.
All the necessities and toiletries will need to be packed. However, some cruise ships may provide an all-in-one shampoo/conditioner/body wash in the shower as well as a large, plush bath towel. You will need to pack your own: toothbrush, toothpaste, razors and shave cream, feminine hygiene products, sunscreen and lotion, medications, hairbrush and other personal grooming items. The one thing you will not have to worry about or pack is food and drink. The cruise will have a 24 hour buffet with a variety of cuisines for your pleasure. Morning, day and night you will be able to find a large selection of foods, desserts and drinks to keep you satisfied.
It is likely that you will be leaving the ship when it docks at port destinations. Be sure to pack for these as well, not forgetting your sunglasses, hat, sunscreen, beach towel, a carrying back and your wallet for spending and an id to get you back on board. When it comes to your electronic gadgets like cell phones and cameras, do not forget to pack the AC adapters to charge them up. Don’t forget your digital camera, extra memory cards and extra batteries. Be sure to carry it in a safe case as well. You might want to bring along a journal and pen to document your journey and preserve a treasury of memories.
