Chestnut Street Travel - Cruise Essentials

Chestnut Street Travel: Journey Experienced

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Cruise Essentials

When I first started cruising many years ago, I remember having so many questions. I had no one to ask. I've always been happy to share my knowledge so that others can relax and enjoy their cruise. One of the most popular is, "What should I bring?"

Generally, you have the top ten obvious things:

1. Documents: Make sure you have your passport, driver’s license, and any other important documents you may need. Don’t forget to bring a photocopy of each in case of an emergency. Bring any cruise documentation as well.

2. Clothing: Pack clothing that is appropriate for the climate of the destination you’re visiting. Make sure to bring layers and extra items in case the temperature changes drastically.

3. Sunscreen: Protect your skin from the sun by bringing good quality sunscreen. Make sure to re-apply throughout the day. Also, don't forget the aloe as inevitably a spot gets missed, and you burn.

4. Swimwear: Bring a few different swimsuits so you’re prepared for any beach activities or poolside lounging.

5. Camera/Camera Phone: Don’t forget to bring a camera to capture all the amazing sights you’ll see on your cruise. But don't live behind the lens!

6. Phone Charger/Backup Battery: Make sure to bring your phone charger so you can stay connected with your loved ones back home.

7. Snacks: Bring snacks and other food items that are factory sealed and can easily be consumed in case you need a quick bite between meals.

8. Toiletries: Pack the essentials such as shampoo, conditioner, toothbrush and toothpaste, deodorant, and any other items you may need. While the ships usually have these in the bathrooms, I recommend just bringing your own.

9. Medications: Bring any medications you are currently taking and any over-the-counter medications you may need. Ensure that you have enough for a week after the cruise, in the event of an emergency.

10. Money: Bring enough money to cover any expenses you may incur while on the cruise, including gratuities.

Can't live without Cruise Extras

Over the years I've learned tips and tricks for the cabins, that make things more enjoyable. Here is the list of items and why I feel they're important:

Power Strip

The rooms don't have enough power outlets. We all have multiple devices that need to be charged, and if you have kids, usually 4-5 devices per child. It has USB ports and is cruise approved with no surge protector.

Over The Door Organizer

The bathrooms on a cruise ship are small and don't offer a lot of storage space. If you're traveling solo, this might not be a big deal. If you're traveling with a family, the extra storage space in the bathroom will be welcome. From Hairbrushes to toothpaste, to Shampoo, it's a must-have.

Bathroom Fragrance Spray

We've established the bathrooms are a small area. With very heavy meals and a lot of family members, the bathroom gets used, a lot. This Before-You-Go Toilet Spray leaves your bathroom smelling fresh and clean. Simply spray the water in the bowl before using the toilet to prevent odors before they begin! Made with 100% natural essential oils!

Portable Fan with USB

The rooms can get stuffy, and I like to sleep with some white noise. This fan circulates the air and creates that white noise that helps me sleep. It comes with an adapter to plug into an outlet, or can be plugged into a USB port.

Wrinkle Releaser

Since many lines don't allow irons and don't have self-laundry facilities--I use this spray to eliminate wrinkles and odors. Many times one wears the same thing again. This helps with that messy look and leaves you smelling fresh.

Luggage Tags

Cruiselines will send you luggage tags for your baggage to ensure your bags get to the correct room. Some just throw them on their bags, without a holder, and take their chances. Not willing to risk missing baggage, I put these tag holders on my bags. They have been on my bags for years. Actually, they've lasted longer than some of my luggage!

Handheld Fan

This USB-chargeable handheld fan is awesome! It moves a great amount of air. At dinner, the smokey casino, or at a show, it's great for those stuffy environments. It also doubles as a battery backup for your devices and has a flashlight. Didn't know I needed this until 2022!

Air Tags

I use these to keep track of my luggage while on the plane or on the ship. I make sure they've made it onboard. Then when it comes time to find them, the tags make it easier. In the event they're stolen or missing, one can track them down. Obviously one wants to put them inside the luggage.

Motion Night Light:

Especially if you're in an inside cabin, this motion night light comes in handy. Rather than turning on the lights and disturbing your sleep cycle, or your sleeping partner, this light motion activates. Using two "AA" batteries. Also comes with a magnetic stand that will stick to the walls in most cabins. They're magnetic!

US & UK Plug Adapter

The rooms have US plugs, but they're not plentiful. They also have the UK Plugs, bringing this device allows you to maximize the outlets. It also has USB ports. Cruise-approved, with no surge protector.

Tide Stain Remover Pens

We've all made a mess of ourselves when eating a meal. There's no reason that mess needs to stain. This is something that is always in my toiletry kit!

Packing Cubes

I can't recommend these enough. I use each cube to store items of clothing. i.e. 1 for undershirts, 1 for pants, 1 for shorts, etc. Makes it very convenient to unpack, repack, launder, store, and transport. I even bring one to store dirty clothing. They made me a better traveler, but watch out, don't overpack and go over the weight limit if you're flying!

Beverage Storage Container

Cruise lines are doing away with single-use plastics. We all can do our part and use refillable containers. There are a lot of places to refill your water around the ships. This will keep beverages cold even while sitting in the sun on the beach in Mexico!

Inflatable Sleeping Pad

The beds on a cruise are not as nice as your bed at home. This self inflating sleeping pad is awesome. About eight puffs will blow this up, and you'll be good for 7 days. Just place it under the existing mattress pads on the bed to ensure it doesn't move, and you're good to go!

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