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Don't forget the footwearWith size and weight limitations imposed by the airlines on luggage, determine which pieces of luggage you will use. Keep in mind that most carriers only allow one checked bag of 50 pounds or less plus one carry-on bag per person .Some airlines still allow two 50-pound bags for an international flight, but it is best to check with your specific carrier first. -
Keep toiletries smallPack clothes that are lightweight, cotton and comfortable. Remember, this is a cruise to a very warm climate. Bring at least two bathing suits, so you have one to wear while the other is drying. Bring shorts or capri pants for shore excursions. Choose at least one sets of shorts for each day of the cruise. Be sure to include something dressy for dinner. Cruises generally allow you to choose to eat in a formal dining room or an optional casual setting. You will want to have the appropriate dress for either occasion. Nights can become chilly, you may want to include a light sweater or jacket. Bring flip flops for poolside, trainers if you plan to use the gym, walk or hike, sandals for day excursions and a dressier shoe for the evening. Don't forget your undergarments, sleepwear and a lightweight robe. -
Depending on the time of year you may encounter rain showers. Pack a small umbrella for excursions. Bring your cell phone and charger. When traveling, you will probably need to make a call. Although you may not be able to use it while on the water, you may need it to change travel arrangements at the last minute.
Consider your daily routine and pack accordingly. Bring your medications for the length of time you plan to be gone plus three days' worth extra. This way if you are detained by weather or scheduling you have plenty of medicine available. Pare down your cosmetics and toiletries to the bare minimum and use small travel-size bottles when possible. Keep in mind that airlines restrict the amount of liquids in carry on bags to one ounce, and they must be in a zip-lock bag.
Other toiletries you may need are: blow dryer, curling iron or curlers, comb/brush, hair gel, hair spray (non-aerosol), shampoo, conditioner, shower cap, bar soap in plastic container, deodorant, toothbrush, toothpaste, dental floss, tweezers, make-up and make-up bag, cleanser, moisturizer and freshener, nail polish and remover, nail clippers and file (be sure to pack in checked luggage), and razor and shaving cream.
Be sure to bring a camera or video camera and their chargers. If using a digital camera, you may want to bring cords necessary to transfer your photos to a PC to allow more space for more pictures. If a laptop is crucial to you, bring it, but first check with your ship's amenities, as many offer Internet access on board if that is your sole reason for bringing the laptop.
Don't forget your sun products such as sunscreen, visor or hat, sunglasses, bug spray and after-sun lotion.
Ladies will want to include some kind of cover up or T shirt for additional protection.
You may want to bring some extra zip-lock bags for storing wet items as well as toiletries. Hand sanitizer comes in handy as well. -
Bring some reading materialImportant items you need to have with you include:
Airline tickets or e-ticket print out
Cruise documents
Passports or proof of citizenship
Wallet
Driver's license and auto insurance card in case you decide to rent a car when ashore
Medical insurance cards and medical history (especially if traveling alone)
Another picture ID or driver's license
Credit cards
Cash or traveler's checks
Three copies of airline tickets, cruise tickets, passports/visas, itinerary; pack one copy in your carry on luggage, one copy in your checked luggage and leave one copy with someone at home
Contact numbers to report lost/stolen credit cards or traveler's checks
Emergency numbers at home - Other items you may want to bring are reading glasses, reading material such as books or magazines, a Spanish-English dictionary, journal, pen or pencil, guidebooks, business cards, a flashlight and a night light.
