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what do you need for a cruise

It’s also a great way to keep kids entertained if you feel like taking it easy in the cabin. One important thing — even if you pack wipes that say they are flushable, do NOT flush them. Flushing anything but toilet paper can cause issues in the ship’s waste systems. The cabins on a ship can get dark — especially if you’ve booked an interior room that doesn’t have windows.

Cruise packing list: The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise

The must-have basic is a comfortable pair of travel shoes for the flight, ship and walking in port. Bahamian ports are filled with shops selling clothing, medicine and toiletries. There are few things you may have left at home that you cannot find in Nassau or Freeport; your cruise ship will also sell a limited range of sundries.

Full list of all homeports:

So what happens if you get up to go to the bathroom in the middle of the night while trying to navigate a small, unfamiliar cabin with furniture? No one goes on a cruise thinking about getting sick, but it does happen. And whether it’s just a headache from a little too much sun (or too much to drink!), or you have an upset stomach, the last thing you want to do is have to tough it out without any sort of remedy.

Sea Bags Convertible Bucket Bag

To be sure, not all wi-fi connections on a cruise allow streaming, and even if they do, internet is expensive on the ship. Netflix (and other streaming apps) allows you to download many episodes to your computer or tablet beforehand so you can watch without an internet connection. A lightweight version won’t break the bank (just around $20 online) and will help keep you cool.

what do you need for a cruise

Speaking of the buffet and dining room, these spots are where most people will eat their meals. And it just doesn’t feel right to hang out poolside without a drink in your hand. The steward will introduce themselves on your first day on the ship, and you can let them know anything you might need. Don’t hesitate to ask if you want something to make your cruise better, or if you have any questions about how things work. While we will get into all the details of your first cruise below, let’s start with a general overview.

The Ultimate Cruise Packing Checklist

Here’s everything you need to pack for a cruise with our top pick for each item. Use this checklist and read more about each of our specific recommendations below. All the clothing, shoes, and accessories you’ll need before you set sail. For more information, read the Airport Security Q&A from SmarterTravel.com. Babies must typically be at least 12 months old for trans-ocean, "exotic" or world cruises and 6 months old for all other cruise destinations (with some exceptions).

Evening clothes and accessories

One exception to the passport or passport card rule applies to "closed-loop" cruises -- itineraries that begin and end at the same U.S. port. Note that for kids younger than 16 years of age, a birth certificate (or its equivalent) alone will suffice. For a full list of cruise clothing essentials for your specific cruise type, check out our cruise packing lists.

Chair clips are useful if you plan to dry your clothes on the balcony and don't want them to blow away. First-time cruisers don't realize all the cruise ship cabin hacks they can employ to enhance their onboard accommodations. Usually, all you need to pack are a few key items from home. On every cruise line, daytime clothing is casual, and on a big-ship cruise, nearly anything goes.

Bahamas cruise packing list: What to pack for the islands

But, remember that you will need to carry this bag with you until you can get into your stateroom, so make sure that it isn’t too heavy, especially if it’s a tote bag. Tick off this handy cruise packing checklist to ensure that all of your vacation essentials make it into your bags. Just note that some of these items will be optional, depending on factors like your cruise destination, duration, weather, and the types of activities you choose on your cruise. There are a few more odds and ends to help ensure that your cruise packing list is seamless. Toting along some favorite snacks, chewing gum, and a reusable water bottle is a smart move to keep you satiated and hydrated on the go, whether at the airport or in port. Plus, don’t forget other necessities, like your passport and travel documents, prescription medications, toiletries, undergarments, a portable charger, and a great bag to carry it all.

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The lower latitudes of the Caribbean mean the sun is much stronger than your skin is likely used to. We like to call the day after the first day at sea “Lobster Day.” That’s because many people spent the first day getting too much sun and look like a bunch of lobsters walking around the ship. Many lines have apps for your phone with things like maps and schedules that are extremely helpful. As well, many people hop on the wi-fi to stay in touch back home. You should go ahead and put the charger in your suitcase now. The last thing you want is to be in the middle of the ocean and realize that your phone battery is flashing red.

This can cut down on your bar bill or fuel your Diet Coke obsession should your ship carry only Pepsi. Definitely don't forget the ultimate evening wear — comfy pajamas — especially if you're sharing a cabin with family or friends. But if you are packing for a family, then there are some things that good to bring. The following items are ideal for a cabin to make it more comfortable during your cruise. Don’t think you have to pack all of these items, but those that catch your interest should be brought along. While many items on the list are self-explanatory, we go into more detail below about what’s included on the checklist for your cruise.

Read on for our beginner's guide to packing for a cruise. For the most part, cruising on mainstream lines like Royal Caribbean, Carnival and Norwegian (NCL) has become an almost entirely casual affair. That makes packing simpler than the days of stuffing full suits and elegant dresses into your suitcase. You'll also want to consider the destination of your itinerary and how connected you'll need to be on your cruise to gauge your non-clothing packing needs.

Note that if boarding early in the day, your room may not be ready yet. Doing this allows you to fill out required forms, attach a credit card to your account, and more ahead of time. It will greatly speed up the time in the terminal and allow you to board faster. Today’s cruise ships are large enough — and offer enough things to do — that no matter what sort of trip you are looking for, you’ll be able to have it on a cruise.

There’s a supportive base so it doesn’t tip over and several colors and messages to choose from, too. For U.S. citizens, passports are necessary for travel by land, sea or air anywhere outside the United States. Passport Card when traveling by land or sea (not air) between the United States and Canada, Mexico, Bermuda or the Caribbean. Department of State, the card is a limited-use passport reduced down to the size of a driver's license. Most cruise lines require that the passport or passport card be valid for at least six months following the completion of your travels. For water sports like kayaking, consider a dry bag to stow your camera gear, smartphone and wallet and prevent them from getting wet.

Other ports of call are your chance to experience another country. They are completely separate from the cruise ship, and you are free to explore as you please. During the trip your cabin will be serviced by the room steward. Each day they will make up the room and deliver things like the daily schedule. They tend to work at the times that most passengers are out of the room (e.g. dinner time), so as not to disturb people. So even if someone has sailed a number of times on one line, they may still feel like a rookie the first time sailing a different cruise line.

The deadline is one reason why cruise lines have encouraged passengers to provide their personal information well in advance of sailing via online check-in. Also, if you plan to cruise while pregnant, many cruise lines require written approval from a doctor. In some ports (including Nassau), you might need a valid ID in addition to your cruise card to re-board your ship. Also, some ports, like Martinique and Guadeloupe, will not allow you to enter the country without a passport, even on a closed-loop cruise.

Travel Rules and Regulations

what do you need for a cruise

If you are on a longer sailing, consider taking advantage of the onboard laundry service rather than overpacking. If the weather is going to be very rainy, the beaches rocky, or if there are mountains you’re looking to climb, be sure to bring along appropriate footwear, too, like rain boots, water shoes, or hiking boots. Keep in mind that ships are equipped with gyms and outdoor tracks, fitness classes abound, and many ports welcome runners, kayakers, bikers, and other active types.

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what do you need for a cruise

In recent years technology — including passport scanners and facial recognition software — have made this faster at ports that have the latest devices. Even so, those sailing with a birth certificate or ports that still require manual checking of documents can take longer. Instead, your cruise keycard and a photo ID (like a license) are asked for.

Convenient Port Canaveral “Park & Cruise” Hotels

Some require a physical card, while others, such as Royal Caribbean, will work with guests who only have a digital copy of their vaccination card. You are required to show valid documents to gain entry into the US. The documents you need depend on the country you are arriving from and your citizenship status.

Learn About Credit Cards

Your CabinWhile on the ship, the cabin on the ship is your home away from home. First-time cruisers are always surprised at the size of a cruise cabin. While many cruise lines offer complimentary shampoo and conditioner in stateroom bathrooms, they aren’t likely to be the products you use at home.

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You also have to carry your bags to the terminal to drop off for the luggage handlers. Luggage Rules Are Fairly SimpleWant to bring a large suitcase? The luggage rules surrounding cruises are nothing like you’ll find with airlines. Cruises don’t charge for luggage and there are no weight limits (within reason). Of course, how much you’ll bring depends on how many days you’ll be at sea.

When it’s time for shore excursions, pack this handy tote with everything you’ll need for the day and save space for a few souvenirs you’ll pick up along the way. Angeline and I went snorkeling in Grand Cayman once and I was so disappointed when I realized that I had forgotten our waterproof camera at home! It’s so much fun to be able to take photos not only under water, but just while you’re on the beach or splashing in the waves! You can also purchase a waterproof phone case or a waterproof camera bag, which will cost you less than a camera. Who knew something as simple as a resealable plastic bag could be a cruiser’s best friend? These handy items take up little space in your suitcase, and they keep your smartphone, wallet and other items safe and dry on water-related shore excursions.

A travel document is your identification that governments, such as the US, provide to citizens so they can cross international borders. The US government issues many different travel documents; for example, the type of travel document you need depends on your immigration status and the purpose of your trip. ☑️ A multicurrency credit card will save you money on conversion fees on your international travels. ☑️ Medication & first aid kit – Take enough of your prescription medication to last throughout the entire cruise vacation. ☑️ A cruise planner with all the information describing the shore tours available on your trip, which you may be able to book ahead of time and other frequently asked questions.

Smart Casual Evenings

On a more upscale or luxury cruise ship, casual daywear tends to be more fashion-forward and stylish, so you might feel out of place in your cheap tee from Target. These are best paired with a casual chino or dressy, wear-free jeans. You'll likely see more of the former than the latter in the evenings, though many ships have casual dinner spots where jeans are welcome.

A not-too-dressy but not-too-casual chunky heeled sandal with an ankle strap is all you need to pair with your evening outfits, and this Vionic Rosabel is the perfect choice. It comes in several tempting colors (including a bright verde green and more subdued terra cotta), though the wheat will go with everything in your suitcase. These offer three-zone comfort with arch support and the built-in orthotic can help treat plantar fasciitis.

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So if you have a stomachache in the middle of the night or a headache, you don’t want to have to wait… or pay tons of money. Copy of Your Passport/Birth CertificateFor sure you need your real passport or birth certificate with you. But we suggest keeping them in the cabin safe during your trip so that they are secure. Instead, make a color copy of the front page of your passport or your birth certificate and bring this into port with you when you go.

These bottles will be returned on the last day onboard for enjoyment once home. So you’ve booked a cruise and you’re wondering what to pack? We started CruisePackingTips.com to share our packing tips, printable checklists and guides on what to wear when cruising. Cruise lines have strict rules about what types of beverages and alcohol you can bring on a cruise ship. If you're picky about wine, many lines will let you bring on a 750 ml bottle or two. Pack your favorite, but be prepared to pay a corkage fee if you drink it at an onboard bar or restaurant.

As for any trip, don’t leave home without your underwear, socks (both athletic and dress socks), and bras/undershirts as the base for any day’s dress. You’ll want comfy pajamas to cozy up in after a long day spent exploring in port, too. To keep other items like wallets, cell phones, sunglasses and water bottles organized and always at the ready, bring along an over-door shoe organizer with clear pockets. She not only relied on her own experience (she owns and swears by many of these products herself) but also spoke with other travel writers and cruise experts to determine the best things to pack for a cruise. Set sail in style with the Mission Essential Duffle Bag from Deux Mains, a handcrafted luxury goods brand sustainably made in Haiti that helps artisans earn a livable wage and health insurance.

While cruise lines go to major lengths to keep people healthy on their trip, it’s a good idea to take matters into your own hands… literally. Having a traditional rolling bag gets caught up in your feet and takes up a lot of space when dragging it behind you. A 4-wheeled suitcase like this one can be right at your side and is also much easier to navigate down narrow cruise ship hallways. Be sure to bring along key travel documents, like copies of flight and hotel bookings. The cruise line will send you designated luggage tags, too; add those onto your luggage before embarking the ship.

Men will also be required to cover legs and shoulders at most religious monuments, so be prepared ahead of time and reconsider shorts and tank tops. When you choose to apply (and are approved) for a new credit card through our site, we may receive compensation from our partners, and this may impact how or where these products appear. Please view our advertising policy and product review methodology for more information. You will, however, want to pack a day bag that contains all of your essential items, like travel documents, medications, chargers, a change of clothes, and a bathing suit. Fill the bag with any items that you’ll need on the first day.

If parent and child don't share a last name, many lines require additional documentation (like the child's passport and birth certificate) as proof of the relationship. Grandparents or other guardians traveling with minors without either of their parents will also need a letter of consent from a parent and often an official form from the cruise line. Note that further documentation could be required for boarding an airplane for international flights; you can check in with the U.S. Department of State to verify what documentation is needed by country. There will also be a credit card authorization form to set up your cashless onboard account, as well as a health questionnaire to assess your current state of health. Not all of us are lucky enough to live an hour or two from a cruise port.

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