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Packing The Essentials For Your Cruise

Packing the Essentials for Your Cruise

"We are going on a summer holiday,/ No more worries for a week or two" - remember the nice old tune? Well, it might be the winter holiday as well, and it might also be just for a few days, but the point is, you're leaving your worries behind and getting ready to set sails. Before you do that, however, you need to stay focused and pack your bags well.

It's true that you'll probably be able to buy on the ship whatever you have forgotten to pack, but financially that's not a wise option. You need to have a good plan, and the sooner you start making it, the better.

Papers are the first thing you should think of - and that means more than just your ticket. You will definitely need some kind of identification - your driving licence or identity might be enough if you are not leaving your country, but if you're cruising abroad you should have your passport with you. To be safe, check whether any visas are necessary for the countries where the ship will dock or whose waters you'll be navigating. The best way to do that is to ask your travel agent or the cruise line, they should be able to give you reliable information. You should also carry vaccination records and medical insurance documents with you.

You probably won't resist buying souvenirs, so don't forget your money. It's not a good idea to carry too much cash, and it's an even less good idea to cary only cash. Take your credit or debit cards with you, and make sure you have the contact numbers in case cards are lost or stolen. Traveller's cheques are also convenient for payment, because they are accepted almost everywhere. Don't put all your eggs in one basket - i.e., all your money, cards, or cheques in the same pocket. There may be thieves and pickpockets around, so you can't be too careful. The contact numbers for the credit cards should also be in a different pocket than the cards themselves.

It won't be a tragedy if you forget your tooth brush, because you can buy one on the ship as well - for a higher price, of course. But you must not forget your prescription medication, and it's wise to carry a doctor's note with you as well, in case you are asked to justify their possession. Reading glasses and contact lenses are also items you shouldn't forget - and it's always better to have a backup pair, in case the first one gets damaged. Cosmetics and skin care products can be found on the ship as well, but you might not find the exact brand you're used to, so it's better to remember to pack yours before you leave home. Don't forget the sunglasses either. A first aid kit and some over-the-counters like aspirin and seasickness tablets might save you some trouble during the cruise.

If you use a digital camera, make sure you have replacement batteries and memory sticks - it will be very difficult to refrain from taking a lot of pictures. If you're using a film camera, have some extra rolls of film with you. If you want to make phone calls, prepaid cards are probably the most economical option. They involve lower costs than the roaming service on your mobile phone or making calls from the cruise ship. Should you still decide to use your cell phone, don't forget to request an extension of your calling coverage from your provider, and ask for information regarding any convenient rates.

A small sewing kit or a Swiss army knife (unless the cruise line forbids it) might also come in handy. For the rest of your packing, try to review your daily routines to see what you need to take with you. If you have an approximate programme of the cruise, you'll be able to determine what else you'll need for the onboard activities and the land excursions.

Don't forget to leave some room in your suitcase for souvenirs. Once you've finished planning these essentials, you're ready to start dreaming of your holiday at sea. Bon voyage!

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