COVID-19 took a chunk out of the cruise industry in 2020 and 2021, but experts predict a strong rebound in 2022. 100% of all cruise ships may be out on the water by the summer of next year.
Did you and your family finally “get the jab?” If you did, you’re no doubt ready to cut loose and finally take that dream cruise. Packing for a cruise, however, isn’t like packing for a typical vacation. There are some cruise ship essentials you’ll need onboard if you want to engage in smart travel.
What are these cruise ship travel essentials? Read on to learn more.
Proper Clothing
You know you need a bathing suit, shorts, and billowy clothing. Taking a cruise isn’t like a regular beach vacation, though. While leisure is the top priority on any trip, cruises are much more regimented. You’ll engage in multiple activities along with breakfast, lunch, and formal dinners.
What clothing do you need on your vacation getaway? Here are some essential items:
- Formal wear like a suit or dress for fine dining
- Athletic gear for sports activities on and off the ship
- Close-toed shoes for activities like horseback riding
- Sweater or long-sleeved shirts for breezy evenings
On a typical beach vacation, you can do anything you want. You can do so on a cruise, but you want to get your money’s worth. Pack clothes so you can engage in the activities any of the types of cruise ships offer.
Sunscreen and Cooling Lotion
Preparing for a cruise means being ready for the sun near the equator. Most folks who travel will tell you to prep your skin by hitting the tanning bed before you depart. It’s good advice.
No matter what you do before the trip, plenty of sunscreen and after-sun lotion are a must. Our bodies love the vitamin D from sunlight. Our skin doesn’t.
One bad, blistering sunburn can raise your cancer risk significantly.
Plenty of Cash
A cruise is an all-expenses-paid excursion. Your food, alcohol, and lodging are in the cost.
That doesn’t mean you don’t have to tip. Gratuities for cruise ship workers are essential, and cash is always king. Carry cash to tip your waiters, the cleaning staff, and the bartenders.
If you take off-ship excursions, you must tip your tour guides, drivers, and anywhere else you visit. Tipping also comes in handy for enjoying a cruise. If you tip generously, you’re far more likely to receive better service.
Packing for a Cruise Tips
Packing for a cruise means being prepared. While you are free to spend your trip reading by the pool, you’re paying a lot of money. You want to make sure you have all the essentials necessary to enjoy the cruise to the fullest.
Pack the proper clothing, sunscreen, and anti-nausea medication. Don’t forget to pack plenty of cash. Tipping the staff is a must for you to enjoy your next cruise vacation.
Are you in need of more travel tips? Check out the rest of our page.
