WHAT TO PACK? THE FIRST TIME CRUISER QUANDARY
whether it’s your first time or 100th time cruising, that mild sense of panic of what to bring for your cruise could end up quite stressful. each cruiser will have different views of what is classified as essential or may wANT TO bring something that has value to them. The following list are for guidance only. The most important thing to remember is you’re going on holiday and packing should gear you up for excitement!
DOCUMENTATION
This is probably the most important thing to bring. Without the proper documentation, it could all end up in a disappointment.
With all the technology available with our phones and tablets, majority of the necessary documentation can all be accessed at the tip of your fingers. We advise that you bring a slim documentation folder and print all the relevant paperwork. This is a great back up in case your phone or tablet run out of power or stop working while you’re queuing for your document check at the terminal! Also, having the paper copies organised will ensure you have a smooth embarkation. We suggest that each cabin has their own folder if you’re travelling in a group as sometimes you may be split per cabin during check-in. The following documents are usually required:
Passport. You should always check the number of months remaining in your passport as some airlines may not allow you to fly to a specific destination if you don’t meet the requirements.
Visa (if applicable). You should always check the cruise ports you are visiting as you might need to apply for certain visas. For UK passport holders for example, you will need an ESTA to enter the US.
Cruise/sea pass and cruise guest documentation. Depending on the cruise line, your sea pass can be scanned through your phone.
Printout of luggage tags. This usually comes with your guest documentation booklet. Print the required amount of luggage tags that displays your cabin number. These are important to attach on the day of your cruise so the crew can deliver your luggage to your cabin after leaving them with the porters for baggage drop off. We suggest investing on clear luggage tag covers. Not only will it make you look like you’re a seasoned cruiser but will also prevent your paper tags from being ripped off your luggage.
Covid-19 Vaccination Records (if applicable). Some destinations and cruise lines will still require you to present your Covid-19 certificates. Always check the necessary documentation as you may be denied boarding.
Covid-19 test result (if applicable). As above. We were on a cruise in Australia (Mar 2023) and we were required to present a negative Covid-19 test result prior to boarding. Again, this may not be the case for different cruise lines.
Travel insurance. Make sure travel insurance covers cruises. Some insurance do not cover cruises so it’s worthwhile to check what is included before purchasing one.
Hotel/Accommodation reservations. This may be available on your phone but we like to print ours as a back up. We always plan to arrive at the city of departure at least a day before. Always prepare for the worst such as delayed flights, that way you will be worry-free.
If you’re travelling with a minor and you’re not the legal guardian, you will need a notarised letter signed by the parents authorising the adult to take the child.
2. medicines and other medical devices
This is pretty self-explanatory.
If you have any medical conditions, don’t forget to bring whatever you require to be comfortable during your holiday. Of course, there are prohibited drugs and devices to bring onboard - you can check the list of prohibited items here.
However, we recommend bringing some headache tablets, anti-diarrhoea medication and some seasickness remedies (tablets, patches or bands). It’s always better to be always prepared. We don’t usually get seasick but there were odd occasions where the seas were rougher than usual.
Bring some plasters as you will never know when you will need them
3. SUNSCREEN & INSECT REPELLeNT
Always bring a good sunscreen. We usually bring a sunscreen with SPF50 regardless if it’s a sunny holiday or not. You can get sunburn even if it’s cloudy or cold.
Insect repellents for tropical countries are also recommended. You may want to opt for sunscreens which also act as an insect repellent if you want to save some space in your suitcase.
4. clothes, accessories and toiletries
There is really no right or wrong with this one. You should wear what makes you feel comfortable, you’re on holiday! You’re also on a cruise so you can get away being daring with your fashion choices.
We would recommend bringing the following:
some casual day clothes such as tanks/tshirts, shorts (for example)
some evening clothes for the main dining room such as shirts, trousers, dresses (for example)
a light coat or cardigan - some nights could get colder. If you’re doing an Alaskan cruise, you might need a heavier coat!
swimwear
socks and underwear
hats and sunglasses
toiletries
flip-flops for going around the pool area, comfortable shoes for walking and dress shoes
If you like to dress up, there are usually theme nights. However, you don’t have to participate, if this is not your thing. For a 7 day cruise for example:
Formal nights where cruisers go all out wearing black tie for men and fabulous dresses for women
Dress to Impress nights
70s and 80s nights
White or Red party
Hawaiian/Caribbean nights
5. ADAPTORS
We recommend bringing appropriate adaptors for your devices, preferably one with multiple USB ports and one that can be adjusted depending on the socket. Usually EU and US sockets are available. Some cabins have limited sockets.
6. snorkelling gear, aqua shoes and dry bag
Bringing a snorkelling gear on your trip to the Caribbean could well may be one of the best decisions you’ll ever make. Seeing the fish up close in the clear waters is such a magical and once in a lifetime experience. Aqua shoes are also a great help as some of the beaches could end up quite rocky. Bringing a dry bag will keep your valuable safe while you’re in the water, without having to worry leaving it out of sight.
7. BOOK AND EARPHONES
Some cruisers prefer some quiet time at the Solarium. Some read a book or just listen to music while enjoying the sun! However, there are plenty of activities during the cruise that will keep you entertained!
8. portable fan
A portable fan is such a good gadget to have as it could get really hot in some ports. This will help make you feel comfortable while you’re exploring! You can check out the kitty fan here.
9. DRINKS
Some cruise lines will allow you to bring a bottle of wine or some fizzy drinks onboard during embarkation day. You will need to check the cruise line’s allowance before bringing anything onboard as they might get confiscated during the day you get on the ship.
10. AIRTAGS
On one of our cruises, we met the most technologically advanced 80-something couple. They recommended getting AirTags for each of your luggage, which was a game changer for us. This removes the worry of whether your luggage made the journey! If it does ever get lost, you can then track this on your phone!
Whatever you pack, make it a pleasant experience and enjoy your cruise!