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See Also
See Again
© Shutterstock
0 / 36 Fotos
4-wheel spinner suitcase - Not only is a suitcase like this foot-friendly, it's also easier to navigate up inclined gangways and down narrow cruise ship hallways.
© Shutterstock
1 / 36 Fotos
Luggage lock - A luggage lock won't stop a determined thief, but it often deters an opportunistic one. Keep your bags secure at all times.
© Shutterstock
2 / 36 Fotos
Cash - Bring enough cash for shore excursions—it beats using a credit card all the time! And in any case, some places don't accept plastic.
© Shutterstock
3 / 36 Fotos
Sunscreen - It's easy to forget how powerful the sun is, especially when being fanned on deck by a cool ocean breeze. But don't be fooled. The Caribbean, Mediterranean, Indian Ocean... these are all very hot destinations. Pack lots of sunscreen.
© Shutterstock
4 / 36 Fotos
Aloe vera gel - Aloe vera gel is widely known to relieve sunburn and help heal wounds. Indeed, aloe vera is touted as the "burn plant," the perfect natural remedy for a bad sunburn. Stock up before leaving home.
© Shutterstock
5 / 36 Fotos
Small cabin fan - Air conditioning is of course standard on all cruise liners. But it's often quite pleasing to have a source of fresh air circulating around the cabin.
© Shutterstock
6 / 36 Fotos
Cabin clock - Your mobile device probably has an alarm as standard, but it's always wise to pack a back-up. After all, you don't want to end up snoozing through those activities on board.
© Shutterstock
7 / 36 Fotos
Sunglasses - Pack a really good pair of sunglasses. Besides sunshine, the glare off the ocean can be blinding. There are two types of sunglasses: UV protection sunglasses protect your eyes from the dangerous rays of the sun; polarized sunglasses eliminate glare. Think of both as sunscreen.
© Shutterstock
8 / 36 Fotos
Outlet adapter - Cabins are notoriously economical with outlet space. Pack a couple of outlet adapters that will expand the number of plugs.
© Shutterstock
9 / 36 Fotos
Towel clips - A breezy deck can prove annoying when you're trying to secure a towel to a lounge chair. Beat the wind with these handy clips.
© iStock
10 / 36 Fotos
Travel day pack - Ports mean shore excursions, and you'll want to travel light while exploring these destinations. A travel day pack is the solution. Ideal for storing snacks, a warm sweater if necessary, and depositing souvenirs.
© Shutterstock
11 / 36 Fotos
Money bag - For convenience, stash some cash in a money bag. Just remember that would-be thieves recognize this accessory for what it is, so wear it under clothing.
© Shutterstock
12 / 36 Fotos
Seasickness relief - Onboard medical facilities on cruise ships operate 24/7, and will have always have seasickness medication on hand for nauseous passengers. But you will still likely want to bring your own.
© Shutterstock
13 / 36 Fotos
Bug repellent - Mosquitoes haven't yet found a way of conquering the world's oceans, but you can be at their mercy in port. Take precautions, especially if cruising the tropics.
© iStock
14 / 36 Fotos
Waterproof drybag - It can happen! A distraction, a slip of the hand, and dunk... your valuables end up soaked. Better to keep them in a splash-proof container so if the worst happens, everything stays dry. Incidentally, drybags are a good idea if you don't want to leave valuables on a beach while swimming.
© Shutterstock
15 / 36 Fotos
Swimsuit cover-up - Modesty is a big issue in some cruise ship destinations. Be prepared to wrap up on dry land when culture dictates. Back on board, it'll make it easier for you to go from swimming to sitting at the bar.
© Shutterstock
16 / 36 Fotos
Cheap waterproof wristwatch - Leave the Rolex in the safe and instead wear a cheap, waterproof option for dips in the pool or a swim in the sea. If it gets lost or stolen, who cares?
© Shutterstock
17 / 36 Fotos
Lanyard - This humble accessory is very useful for putting room cards and sea passes within easy reach, and in plain sight!
© Shutterstock
18 / 36 Fotos
Netflix - In the rare instance when onboard entertainment isn't cutting it, it's useful to have at hand some episodes of your favorite Netflix TV series to pass the time. Remember to download episodes before embarking: accessing the internet on board can be expensive.
© Shutterstock
19 / 36 Fotos
Windbreaker - Don't be fooled by a bright sunny day at sea. A mid-ocean breeze can be surprisingly chilly, more so at night. Pack some warm clothing for when the temperature drops. Of course, if you're cruising the Norwegian fjords in winter, common sense should prevail.
© Shutterstock
20 / 36 Fotos
Binoculars - The world's oceans afford fabulous opportunities for observing wildlife in its natural habitat. Also, if you're cruising along the coast you'll want to spy what's going on ashore. Tip: always use binoculars with a strap around your neck.
© Shutterstock
21 / 36 Fotos
Wide-brimmed hat - Ladies, you can always make a fashion statement under the sun. And it also makes perfect sense to protect your face, shoulders, and neck from getting sunburned.
© Shutterstock
22 / 36 Fotos
Phone dry pouch - Protect mobile devices from water (and harmful salt deposits) by securing them in dry pouches that you secure around your neck.
© Shutterstock
23 / 36 Fotos
Passport dry pouch - Likewise, don't let your passport meet a watery end through carelessness.
© Shutterstock
24 / 36 Fotos
Phone charger - How many of us have left home and are halfway around the world before realizing we've neglected to bring along our cell phone's charger?
© Shutterstock
25 / 36 Fotos
Sticky notes - Handy for leaving quick reminders in the cabin, for letting others know where you are, or for requesting items or services from your cabin steward. It's much cheaper than using the cell or in-house phone.
© Shutterstock
26 / 36 Fotos
Slip-resistant flip-flops - A standard item to pack on any summer vacation, flip-flops for cruising ideally should be those with a textured sole for walking safely around slippery poolside decks.
© Shutterstock
27 / 36 Fotos
Deck shoes - A step further, a pair of comfortable deck shoes is the footwear of choice for cruise-savvy passengers.
© Shutterstock
28 / 36 Fotos
Beach blanket - Pack some beach blankets made from light, microfiber cloth for lounging around on the sand. Remember, some tourist traps charge an arm and a leg for renting out a simple item like this.
© Shutterstock
29 / 36 Fotos
Ziploc bags - Ziploc bags work wonders for storing documents, travel notes, and paperwork when a larger drybag just wouldn't be practical. Pack a dozen or so for all needs.
© iStock
30 / 36 Fotos
Potpourri - Keep the cabin's WC fresh and sweet-smelling by bringing along your own potpourri. This is also a good idea if the cabin is small, or hasn't got a balcony.
© iStock
31 / 36 Fotos
Portable cabin nightlight - Very useful if you've booked an interior cabin that doesn't have windows.
© Shutterstock
32 / 36 Fotos
Eyeglass repair kit - An eyeglass repair kit is an item easily overlooked, but it's essential if you wear glasses. Alternatively, pack a spare pair of glasses.
© Shutterstock
33 / 36 Fotos
Bottle of wine - Alcohol is an expensive add-on for cruise passengers. Fortunately, many cruise lines allow you to bring on board one bottle of wine or champagne. If you find this is so, take advantage and pack a good bottle.
© Shutterstock
34 / 36 Fotos
Corkscrew
- Oh, and don't forget to pack a corkscrew for your wine. Cheers! See also: Should you still vacation on cruise ships?
© Shutterstock
35 / 36 Fotos
© Shutterstock
0 / 36 Fotos
4-wheel spinner suitcase - Not only is a suitcase like this foot-friendly, it's also easier to navigate up inclined gangways and down narrow cruise ship hallways.
© Shutterstock
1 / 36 Fotos
Luggage lock - A luggage lock won't stop a determined thief, but it often deters an opportunistic one. Keep your bags secure at all times.
© Shutterstock
2 / 36 Fotos
Cash - Bring enough cash for shore excursions—it beats using a credit card all the time! And in any case, some places don't accept plastic.
© Shutterstock
3 / 36 Fotos
Sunscreen - It's easy to forget how powerful the sun is, especially when being fanned on deck by a cool ocean breeze. But don't be fooled. The Caribbean, Mediterranean, Indian Ocean... these are all very hot destinations. Pack lots of sunscreen.
© Shutterstock
4 / 36 Fotos
Aloe vera gel - Aloe vera gel is widely known to relieve sunburn and help heal wounds. Indeed, aloe vera is touted as the "burn plant," the perfect natural remedy for a bad sunburn. Stock up before leaving home.
© Shutterstock
5 / 36 Fotos
Small cabin fan - Air conditioning is of course standard on all cruise liners. But it's often quite pleasing to have a source of fresh air circulating around the cabin.
© Shutterstock
6 / 36 Fotos
Cabin clock - Your mobile device probably has an alarm as standard, but it's always wise to pack a back-up. After all, you don't want to end up snoozing through those activities on board.
© Shutterstock
7 / 36 Fotos
Sunglasses - Pack a really good pair of sunglasses. Besides sunshine, the glare off the ocean can be blinding. There are two types of sunglasses: UV protection sunglasses protect your eyes from the dangerous rays of the sun; polarized sunglasses eliminate glare. Think of both as sunscreen.
© Shutterstock
8 / 36 Fotos
Outlet adapter - Cabins are notoriously economical with outlet space. Pack a couple of outlet adapters that will expand the number of plugs.
© Shutterstock
9 / 36 Fotos
Towel clips - A breezy deck can prove annoying when you're trying to secure a towel to a lounge chair. Beat the wind with these handy clips.
© iStock
10 / 36 Fotos
Travel day pack - Ports mean shore excursions, and you'll want to travel light while exploring these destinations. A travel day pack is the solution. Ideal for storing snacks, a warm sweater if necessary, and depositing souvenirs.
© Shutterstock
11 / 36 Fotos
Money bag - For convenience, stash some cash in a money bag. Just remember that would-be thieves recognize this accessory for what it is, so wear it under clothing.
© Shutterstock
12 / 36 Fotos
Seasickness relief - Onboard medical facilities on cruise ships operate 24/7, and will have always have seasickness medication on hand for nauseous passengers. But you will still likely want to bring your own.
© Shutterstock
13 / 36 Fotos
Bug repellent - Mosquitoes haven't yet found a way of conquering the world's oceans, but you can be at their mercy in port. Take precautions, especially if cruising the tropics.
© iStock
14 / 36 Fotos
Waterproof drybag - It can happen! A distraction, a slip of the hand, and dunk... your valuables end up soaked. Better to keep them in a splash-proof container so if the worst happens, everything stays dry. Incidentally, drybags are a good idea if you don't want to leave valuables on a beach while swimming.
© Shutterstock
15 / 36 Fotos
Swimsuit cover-up - Modesty is a big issue in some cruise ship destinations. Be prepared to wrap up on dry land when culture dictates. Back on board, it'll make it easier for you to go from swimming to sitting at the bar.
© Shutterstock
16 / 36 Fotos
Cheap waterproof wristwatch - Leave the Rolex in the safe and instead wear a cheap, waterproof option for dips in the pool or a swim in the sea. If it gets lost or stolen, who cares?
© Shutterstock
17 / 36 Fotos
Lanyard - This humble accessory is very useful for putting room cards and sea passes within easy reach, and in plain sight!
© Shutterstock
18 / 36 Fotos
Netflix - In the rare instance when onboard entertainment isn't cutting it, it's useful to have at hand some episodes of your favorite Netflix TV series to pass the time. Remember to download episodes before embarking: accessing the internet on board can be expensive.
© Shutterstock
19 / 36 Fotos
Windbreaker - Don't be fooled by a bright sunny day at sea. A mid-ocean breeze can be surprisingly chilly, more so at night. Pack some warm clothing for when the temperature drops. Of course, if you're cruising the Norwegian fjords in winter, common sense should prevail.
© Shutterstock
20 / 36 Fotos
Binoculars - The world's oceans afford fabulous opportunities for observing wildlife in its natural habitat. Also, if you're cruising along the coast you'll want to spy what's going on ashore. Tip: always use binoculars with a strap around your neck.
© Shutterstock
21 / 36 Fotos
Wide-brimmed hat - Ladies, you can always make a fashion statement under the sun. And it also makes perfect sense to protect your face, shoulders, and neck from getting sunburned.
© Shutterstock
22 / 36 Fotos
Phone dry pouch - Protect mobile devices from water (and harmful salt deposits) by securing them in dry pouches that you secure around your neck.
© Shutterstock
23 / 36 Fotos
Passport dry pouch - Likewise, don't let your passport meet a watery end through carelessness.
© Shutterstock
24 / 36 Fotos
Phone charger - How many of us have left home and are halfway around the world before realizing we've neglected to bring along our cell phone's charger?
© Shutterstock
25 / 36 Fotos
Sticky notes - Handy for leaving quick reminders in the cabin, for letting others know where you are, or for requesting items or services from your cabin steward. It's much cheaper than using the cell or in-house phone.
© Shutterstock
26 / 36 Fotos
Slip-resistant flip-flops - A standard item to pack on any summer vacation, flip-flops for cruising ideally should be those with a textured sole for walking safely around slippery poolside decks.
© Shutterstock
27 / 36 Fotos
Deck shoes - A step further, a pair of comfortable deck shoes is the footwear of choice for cruise-savvy passengers.
© Shutterstock
28 / 36 Fotos
Beach blanket - Pack some beach blankets made from light, microfiber cloth for lounging around on the sand. Remember, some tourist traps charge an arm and a leg for renting out a simple item like this.
© Shutterstock
29 / 36 Fotos
Ziploc bags - Ziploc bags work wonders for storing documents, travel notes, and paperwork when a larger drybag just wouldn't be practical. Pack a dozen or so for all needs.
© iStock
30 / 36 Fotos
Potpourri - Keep the cabin's WC fresh and sweet-smelling by bringing along your own potpourri. This is also a good idea if the cabin is small, or hasn't got a balcony.
© iStock
31 / 36 Fotos
Portable cabin nightlight - Very useful if you've booked an interior cabin that doesn't have windows.
© Shutterstock
32 / 36 Fotos
Eyeglass repair kit - An eyeglass repair kit is an item easily overlooked, but it's essential if you wear glasses. Alternatively, pack a spare pair of glasses.
© Shutterstock
33 / 36 Fotos
Bottle of wine - Alcohol is an expensive add-on for cruise passengers. Fortunately, many cruise lines allow you to bring on board one bottle of wine or champagne. If you find this is so, take advantage and pack a good bottle.
© Shutterstock
34 / 36 Fotos
Corkscrew
- Oh, and don't forget to pack a corkscrew for your wine. Cheers! See also: Should you still vacation on cruise ships?
© Shutterstock
35 / 36 Fotos
What to pack for a hassle-free cruise vacation
Useful things to bring on board
© Shutterstock
A cruise vacation affords tourists the luxury of visiting different destinations via the comfort of an ocean-going liner. While most modern conveniences are provided on board, there are some travel items you should make a point of packing for peace of mind and a hassle-free voyage.
Browse the gallery for some useful tips on what to take on your summertime cruise.
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