Essential Items for Your Perfect Cruise Vacation

Having the right items you need for whatever you are doing is always helpful. When it comes to vacation there are the classic things everyone needs to remember to have in their packing list like sunscreen for warm destinations, a warm coat for cooler destinations, and money for no matter where you’re going! What about cruise vacations? What are some of the basics that can help to make your trip go more smoothly?

Luggage

It might seem like a no-brainer, but you really want to select your luggage well for a cruise. Things to keep in mind are you will likely store it under your bed when unpacked, so a large, hard-sided bag might be a challenge to squeeze underneath! Wheels on bags is standard nowadays, but would you be happier with 4 wheels or 2? Here are some great bags to hold all your stuff, travel well, and slip out of the way easily.

Luggage Scale

Depending on the airline ticket you booked, the weight of your bag might be a very important consideration. Who wants to be that person at the ticket counter with their bag open on the floor trying desperately to stuff items in other bags to get the weight down?! This is a great little digital scale that is small and easy to use. This can be especially important when returning home as you may have purchased an item or 2 along your journey!

Luggage Straps

Have you ever noticed how many bags look alike? A simple and easy way to “mark” your bag for easy identification is by using luggage straps. You can get these in many colors and using one or a combination of different colors will help you see your bag the instant it pops over the conveyor belt!

Trackers

Have you ever arrived at your destination only to find your luggage went on a separate sight-seeing adventure of it’s own? One way to track your bag in real time is to use a tracker device like Tiles if you’re an Android user or Apple Air Tags. Make sure you attach these securely or place them inside the bag.

In-Flight Comforts

Passengers in first or business are provided with pillows and blankets, but if you’re in coach and your flight is long you might want to plan ahead for yourself. Neck pillows can help you rest comfortably, especially these filled with micro-beads. They conform more to the shape of your neck and head and remain cool even with prolonged use. Speaking of staying cool, these USB fans are great when your seat air vents aren’t sufficient! Another item that can be very handy is a set of disposable slippers to wear when moving around the plane, especially to go to the lavatory. That’s not always water on the floor, and who wants to have to put your shoes back on if you want to come back to your seat and go back to sleep.

Destination Specific Items

With so many ports and different itineraries, most cruises will involve at least a stop or 2 where you will want to get off the ship and explore. Having a good pair of walking shoes can save you pain as well as enhance your experience. Whether it’s a good pair of hiking shoes for a serious adventure or just a good, comfy pair of walking sandals, make sure you are prepared!

Final Thoughts

My wife and I came up with a slogan for trips that has saved us wasted time being upset on many trips. If we forget something but we can find a replacement solution for $50 or less we consider it to have never been a problem in the first place. Even with the best of planning, things sometimes happen. Hopefully these ideas will help you to avoid finding yourself far from home and wishing you had packed that one essential item you left behind! – René