We all bring allong things like Mp3 players, paperback books and extra socks when we cruise. So, I figured I would make a list of things to bring along that are a little more offbeat. Here is a list of ten things that I like to bring along when I cruise, maybe you will find a use for a couple of them on your next vacation.
Hand Sanitizer – Hygiene is very important. While we all attempt to be as clean as possible, in some ports it is a bit harder than others to maintain our usual standards. This is where personal sized hand sanitizer comes in handy. The bottles are small enough to be carried in a pocket and it proves to be invaluable in places where proper facilities aren’t up to code.
Water Shoes – Not all beaches are created equal, in fact some are down right rugged. Carrying water shoes affords me the ability to deal with almost any type of terrain. They are especially useful on some of the coral beaches that make up some of the best snorkeling spots in the Caribbean. Although I would love for all beaches to be as powdery soft as Eagle Beach in Aruba, most are not so be prepared.
Water Wallet – Chances are you will be visiting one or more ports that feature beaches. If this is the case, a water wallet is essential. It helps you keep all of your important belongings (money, identification, etc.) dry even while you are getting wet. Personally, I am a snorkel-aholic something that would not be possible without my water wallet.
Extra Memory Card – I take pictures of everything. Although I have a memory card that allows me to take hundreds of photos as well as a couple of hour’s worth of movies, at times that is not enough. Even if it were enough storage, I find that an extra memory card allows me to have the piece of mind to snap pictures of any and everything I run across without the need to be selective.
Stain Stick – accidents happen no matter where we are, and for these moments, a stain stick/pen comes in handy. While I will say most of my cruise wardrobe is comprised of t-shirts, I must say I would hate to ruin one of my nicer dress shirts due to a dining room accident. Carrying a stain stick allows me to deal with any dining room sloppiness immediately, before the stain sets.
Downey Wrinkle Release – I have yet to perfect the technique of packing that allows me to not have to worry about wrinkled clothing. As I said most of my cruise clothing consists of t-shirts but for formal nights, I do like to look my best. I have found that using Downey Wrinkle Release and hanging my clothes in the bathroom while I take a hot shower works wonders. Its not quite as good as bringing along a steamer but it is cheap, portable and convenient.
Travel Alarm Clock – This is especially important if you are staying in an inside room, where the suns natural light doesn’t always alert you of the time of day. I like to get up early to get out to experience ports and a travel alarm clock is the most convenient way I have found to keep on schedule. Other methods people use are wake-up calls (which sometimes fail) and ordering an early room service to serve as a wake-up call. I prefer the alarm clock as it gives me the greatest control.
Collapsible Laundry Basket – Although its not always possible, I do like to keep my cabin as neat and orderly as possible. I find that a collapsible laundry basket gives me an out of the way place to put my worn clothes. I simply put over in a corner of my room or closet and toss my clothes in there when I am done wearing them. It really helps me cut down on the clutter and I have even received words of appreciateion from my cabin steward.
Over the counter meds – I always make sure to bring along a bottle of Tylenol, Tums and Imodium just in case illness hits. Purchasing these items in the ships shops can get very expensive and waiting to buy them in port isn’t always an option. I find that picking up a few of these things before I leave home gives me greater peace of mind. In fact, I have even made friends because I was the guy at the dining room table that had antacid. I also make sure I grab some seasick prevention medication and bug spray just in case.
Dollar Bills – Although the ship operates on a cashless basis and most purchases made in port will be in large sums it is very convenient to have a wad of dollar bills. I use them as tips for porters, room service, taxi’s and any other situation where I may feel the need to slip someone a couple of dollars. Additionally, I think its important to not have to pull out large bills in local marketplaces where vendors may not have change for that fifty dollar bill.
Do you have any must have items you bring along on your cruises that others may be interested in? If so maybe you would like to leave a comment letting us know what they are.
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Bring something to hang on the outside of your door to make it easy to find your cabin among endless doors that all look the same. I have often been thanked by my neighbors for the bow I tape to our door as it also makes it easier for them too. If traveling with a large group you can put up one of those eraseable boards to leave messages for each other.
That’s a very good tip. All of those doors start looking alike after a few martini’s