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Pay attention to the advice from frequent cruise travelers. They
have seen it all and have the stories to tell. Using their
guidance can make things a bit easier for an inexperienced
cruiser. After all, no one wants any "surprises" to put a damper
on your cruise enjoyment.
Got Your Paperwork?
Nothing is more frustrating that digging through your bags at
airport security or customs on the way to your cruise. Have
everything handy and in one place. Use a little carrying case,
something similar to a business card holder or small pocket
photo album to contain everything.
Copy several sets of your driver's license or photo
identification as well as your passport or visa. Your credit
cards and traveler's checks should be copied. Leave one set at
home with a trusted, easily reachable family member. Lock one
set up in the personal safe in your ship cabin or lock it in the
ship's main safe. Also keep your originals and another copy with
you at all times, but in separate places. This will help you in
case you lose anything or it is stolen.
Items that are handy:
If you don't want to miss the beautiful sunrise or a particular
activity, bring your travel alarm clock. If you are in an inner
cabin aboard the ship, there are no windows so it will be dark
and virtually impossible to know what time it is.
Take a mesh laundry bag with you to stow dirty or soiled
clothing. This will keep your clean clothes separated. There is
nothing worse than having some of your clothes stink like dirty,
sweaty socks!
An extension cord or two comes in handy with those cabins that
have electric outlets in strange places. Many times, they are
not where you need them, so the cords will be helpful.
Clear Ziploc baggies are useful when packing your suitcase. Such
items as shampoo and sunscreen could possibly leak, so the
baggies would contain the leak and keep your clothing from being
ruined. Medications can also be packed into clear baggies. Going
through airport security or customs can be a hassle too, so
baggies allow the security officials to see the contents of your
suitcase at a glance and you won't have to unpack a travel
toiletry bag for inspection this way.
Stay Connected:
If you decide to bring your cell phone to stay in touch with
friends and family at home, check with your service provider
about temporarily extending your calling area or inquire about
special rates during your travels. No one wants to be shocked
with a cell phone bill that is a few hundred dollars higher. Or
should you leave your cell phone at home, invest in a few
prepaid phone cards. This is a cheaper option than using the
phone service on the ship.
Take extra batteries and memory sticks for your digital camera.
Your battery charger might be useful too, depending on how much
your camera will be used. Should you decide to use a camera with
film, do not pack it in your luggage if you fly to your cruise
port. Airport security scanners could ruin your film.
Binoculars are a must for sight-seeing. Sometimes, you will not
be able to get up close and personal to things, so you'll be
glad to have them. You don't want to miss anything, do you?
This is your time! Don't spend it fretting about your ruined
camera film or lamenting about the greasy sunscreen that leaked
all over your suitcase. By heeding the advice from seasoned
travelers, you will save yourself some trouble in your cruising
vacation. Now prepare for some fun and adventure!
About the author:
Kirsten Hawkins is a cruise and travel expert specializing in
discount cruises and travel. Visit
http://www.luxury-cruise-deals.com/ for more information on how
to cruise the world for little or no money.
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