What should I take on a cruise?

Aside from climate appropriate clothing, there are a number of things you should consider taking with you on your cruise

* cruise documents

* passports and visas (if necessary) or proof of citizenship

* If you plan on renting a car while ashore - drivers license and insurance card

* medical insurance cards and medical history

* credit cards - it might be a good idea to call your bank and/or credit card company to inform them that you are traveling outside the US (or normal activity area)

* watch (be mindful of “shipboard time” as it may be different than the “local time”)

* pre-paid phone card

* cash or traveler's checks (be sure to keep traveler's checks receipt in separate location)

* contact numbers to report lost/stolen credit cards or traveler's checks

* prescription drugs and any other essential medications in carry on bag

* glasses, contacs, contac cleaner

* sunglasses

* business cards with email address to give out to new cruise friends

* sun screen/sun block and lip sunblock

* Digital camera and/or camcorder (don’t forget your chargers!) along with extra recording media (i.e. tapes, dvd’s, memory sticks)

* Small single size packets of laundry detergent/softener (you can buy these on the ship, but usually at twice the amount you’ll pay at your local grocery/convenience store) along with a roll or two of quarters

* Asprin, Tylenol, Tums, etc. You can buy these things in the ships store - but they carry a hefty mark-up.

* An extra gym/tote bag for souvenirs, etc.

This list is probably incomplete - so think about what you need/use on a daily/weekly basis and then decide if you should take it with you.