10 Things to Bring on a Cruise that Will SAVE You Money!! *bring from home*

[@LifeWellCruised]

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[@june9132]

Please can u do a 1st aid medical video on things we should bring ? Or if u have the video already up and available can u let me know as well

[@lindatoberman3605]

​@@june9132 Love your vidoes

[@soochim7312]

DVD 5:08 y 7y h y 5:10 yyyu😊and 5:21 675😊😊uh u😅😅 5:25 76vvg😅and 😅😅

[@pkb1647]

I take a small 99 cent store spray bottle with a dryer sheet in it. Lightweight! When I get on board I fill it with water and leave the sheet in. Instant clothing refresher- no leaking and lightweight. I do that at home too. Cheaper than downey.

[@sunshinejohnson8330]

THANK YOU FOR SHARING THIS,IL BE DOING THIS IN 2 WEEKS

[@mrsjokersknight]

That’s frickin brilliant. I’ll try this in a few weeks

[@msmo2060]

I always pack dryer sheets in my suitcase… mu clothes smell nice … & I put them around the room I’m staying in as an air freshener … also helps if I have to use a dryer

[@waterfallpeace8057]

Wonderful idea. Thanks for your information.

[@TheWanderingWife]

Brilliant!

[@sandrakallam2761]

Planning your very first cruise? My advice is to watch as many of these KZbin videos as possible and adapt what is best for you!! These are very helpful and full of information! Our first cruise was great and we got a balcony room. Worth the extra money and on the 8th level. That balcony was my happy place.

[@angeliquehill4605]

I hate room service coffee and neither of us wants to run out for specialty coffee first thing in the morning. I bring a high quality large thermal cup (yeti, hydroflask, etc). On our way to the cabin to turn in for the night we stop at the coffee bar and get a couple of extra hot americanos which stay hot all night in the thermos. This way we can have a cup before we “emerge” from our cabin. It also works as a water bottle and you can throw some small items in it when you pack, like phone chargers.

[@berthadelangel1342]

Five Below has $5 selfie stick like you showed with a light, Tripod and Bluetooth removable button to snap pics. Just $5 bucks. So if you break or loose it, your not upset.

[@jackiegromacki686]

I put Dr Scholl's gel soles in my water shoes in case I walk across any rocks. Makes my shoes really comfortable. If you get sand in your shoes , just take them out and rinse off.

[@LMDinNC]

This is such an awesome tip, thanks!

[@tracytuten5116]

That's a great idea because water shoes don't have the best padding!

[@vickibock-ledbetter1965]

What a great idea

[@hilaryw8241]

If you are travelling with a wheelchair bound passenger, take a door stop with you. As a wheelchair pusher it was pure hell trying to keep the door open whilst manoeuvring the chair. Health and safety prevents the cruise lines from supplying them in case of theft or fire.

[@LifeWellCruised]

Such a good tip

[@lap8329]

I discovered laundry detergent sheets in my local supermarket recently. I found that a half sheet was just right for rinsing out undies in the bathroom basin, so, I cut them in half and filled a ziplock bag with the amount I estimated I would need. As a bonus, I noticed that leaving the bag unzipped spread the sheets’ fragrance around, so I store the bag, unzipped, in my laundry bag.

[@allisonsauder9038]

Thank you! We cruise 2 or 3 times a year and these things are always on our list. I would add that I bring things that do double or triple duty. A canvas bag that doubles as my beach/ poolside bag and then also as my 'stuff i bought' bag. A bathing suit coverup that also works as a dressy cover over shorts. A Turkish towel that doubles as a lap blanket for morning balcony coffee, poolside extra towel, beach towel and extra coverage whenever it’s chilly on board.

[@brigittes5955]

I have a patterned bathing suit cover-up that I am wearing belted over a red jumpsuit our first night. Gotta pack creatively when using a carry-on & backpack for a trip lasting 10-days and no access to a laundry room. I also use my Turkish towel as a scarf on the plane. It allows me a little extra protection and frees up space in my backpack.

[@lisaarens7521]

I always bring my own beach bag. Comes in handy not only for the beach, but while shopping in Port or on excursions!!

[@elainewiggs9404]

Don't forget disposable rain ponchos. If it's raining on your port, you'll be happy shopping a little dryer.

[@LifeWellCruised]

Yes!! I totally forgot this

[@elouise5593]

Great idea!

[@AnnaMae41194]

also if you go on a cruise in the caribbean and plan to swin in the sea/ocean make sure the susscreen you bring is reef safe a lot of the ports require you use that

[@LifeWellCruised]

Very true - super important

[@hollypotter6989]

We brought cans of diet root beer on our last cruise. Not for just drinking but we made root beer floats to have in our cabin. Also a must to bring from home is poo pouri. Or at the very least some spray for after you do your business. I read somewhere they make corkscrews that are permitted on ships, so you don't even have to pay the corkage fee. Bring a bottle of champagne, have room service delivery with orange juice and you have mimosas for free.

[@thegolfwalker]

I buy the wine with the screw top!!!

[@avidsquarehead]

💩 pouri?! 😂

[@maureenkelly-thompson7101]

We always bring flashlights and extra batteries (AA or AAA size). Also, pack waterproof bandages in the first aid kit so that you can continue to enjoy water themed activities while keeping your injured area dry and safe.

[@robinbrook5624]

I have found the Vinni Bag to be worth it's weight in gold! It's an inflatable wine bag, which can will allow that bottle of liquor or wine at duty free, to make it home in one piece. Outbound it's great for anything that might leak. Mine is about 10 years old and still as good as the day I bought it.

[@ilidiocaralho9197]

I’ve been watching lots of videos in preparation for my first ever cruise with the family. Out of all the channels I’ve came across yours is by far the best! You’re very informative and genuine, and not just trying to upsell. Have a sub!

[@am7884]

I like this channel too. Hani Beach Life is good and so is Code Fun Travel with Lynette and Stanley as well.

[@wyatth2992]

Jist wondering, how was your first cuise experience?

[@greengrands]

Great advice. I carry my own "drugstore", in a small zip case. Great to have available in a pinch and so much less expensive than buying on the ship (if they even have it!).

[@LifeWellCruised]

Totally agree

[@xfhnhhgjbvcfg]

That's great advice buying drugs at the Port can be super expensive

[@caroleanne8529]

I caught a horrible virus on a HA cruise that later settled in my lungs and caused a terrible cough. $23 for the smallest bottle of Robitussin I have ever seen. At home, you can buy cough medicine that is little pills that take up no room. There is new laundry detergent that is like a small sheet of paper. You can tear off whatever you need.

[@robbd44]

Always include Blood Stop. It is wonderful if you have a cut. It stops bleeding immediately.

[@berthadelangel1342]

I always take a Bath & Body works Wallflower with Eucalyptus Mint scent. It’s AMAZING. Plug into cruise certified plug extension and when you walk into cabin it smells like a Spa and Fresh!!

[@deidresmith9698]

On CARNIVAL with my allowed 12pk of sodas.. I mix thm. Ginger ale in case of tummy issues and other flavors i like

[@lawofficesofjeffreym.jacob9466]

I appreciate bringing everything you own. Yet, some of us fly to the cruise and are limited to 50# and 2 suit cases.

[@ZForce5496]

I will always tell people to pack medical supplies such as bandaids on a cruise. On my first cruise I cut my foot at the pool. I went to the store to get more and they were sold out. I went to the doctor’s office and they flat-out refused to give me one. I showed the receptionist my sliced open bleeding toe and she still refused and told me to get one at the store. I told her they were sold out and she still wouldn’t give me one. Lesson learned. Never be without your own first aid kit. It’s a good thing I didn’t get an infection.

[@patrickquinn9405]

Remedy I learned from a friend that was in the military is if you get cut and cant find a bandaid or bandage in general, hold the cut together and apply a layer of super glue over it and wait a minute for it to harden. The "liquid stitches" that doctors use nowadays are just a version of super glue and works as a great bandage alternative because it holds the cut closed and shields it from bacteria too.

[@ZForce5496]

@@patrickquinn9405 Good tip but I think am less likely to find superglue on a cruise ship than I am to find bandaids.

[@kmcbride2988]

Great suggestions. I am packing our first aid kit with every over the corner Med to treat minor respiratory, gastrointestinal issues, , pain, cuts, anti itch creams, motion sickness pills and patches🤮💩🤒🤕🥵🤧. But specifically a small bottle of peroxide/alcohol to clean minor cuts And Liquid IV packets or Hydration/electrolyte tablets , activated charcoal tablets, peppermints, ginger, aloe for sun burn,saline nasal spray, saline eye drops,cough drops, small ace wrap, ice pack. Sounds like plenty but I will just remove that extra pair of shoes to make room and be prepared esp now.

[@LifeWellCruised]

Great list! I agree - best be prepared

[@ponchonegro2834]

Take also the following items: an extension cord with multiple plugs at the end…ship have outlets bur are not where you want them…A luggage scale if yo plan to flight at the end of the cruise is important to pack the right suitcase wait or else a delay at the airport…Take a pair of small bathroom night lights…you can plug one in the bathroom mirror (the outlet is for the shaver) and you won’t get killed into the dark bathroom…Take a Swiss Army Knife with multiple tools and scissors…I always use mine… Take 2 or 4 towel clamps…for to hog a chaise by the pool or to clamp clothing to air dry in your Verandah area…take one of those bottle bags with 6 dividers and use the bag to get water for your room…go to the buffet area and fill the bottles there…water still is free :)

[@LifeWellCruised]

Great tips - thanks for sharing

[@sariel8406]

Extension cords are not allowed on Royal Caribbean ships. They take it away and return it only when we disembark.

[@blueifer]

On our cruise we just finished the hall by bathroom had a motion sensor light that turned on as you approached so no stubbed toes in the dark. Regal Princess

[@estherpage2107]

I do t believe most lines allow you to take extension plugs as they are considered a fire hazard.

[@penny7205]

Extension cords are not allowed. All the videos I've been watching for our Regal Princess cruise that departs Galveston, Texas, this Sunday, 11/12/23 say bring a power adapter to be able to plug in electronics. I always carry my 1875 watt travel blow dryer. It keeps me from being in the bathroom for hours trying to dry my hair with their small wattage dryer.

[@cheryldep6316]

Things that we pack: In first aid kit, Benadryl Pills, Melatonin, Anti-Diarrhea Pills, Ibuprofin, Moisturizing Eye Drops, Anti-Itch Cream, Abreva, Motion Sickness Pills, Band-Aids. For our beach days, I always pack an old bed sheet in our suitcase. Then, we don't need to pay to rent beach chairs. We just open the sheet on the beach. That's our money saving trick that I rarely see other people do.

[@alyson5234]

Love the bed sheet idea.

[@designdoctor247]

brillant!

[@LGnLA]

BIG THANKS 4 the tip, will be packing a 'beach sheet' next cruise!!!💯😊

[@happycook6737]

Old sheets are great for sleeping on airport floors too, in unexpected situations. Prefer floral or design so I know which side was down on filthy floor in case I have to reuse.

[@frankiefurbag9030]

I brong an old table cloth, a little heavier but the sand doesn’t get through at all.

[@antoniabaker7770]

Small duffel bag is also good for dirty laundry. And disposable shower caps for dirty runners.

[@lollipop1978]

Would love to find out more about typical on-ship medical facilities. Is it like an urgent care? First aid only? Single exam room? Any diagnostic equipment (xray)? Or more like a Minute Clinic? Will it have an MD or a NP or PA? What price range are we talking about?

[@carolkirby2940]

I bring my own small first aid kit including snap ice pack and Rx meds. Also a small 'office' kit inc tape little stapler electrical tape paper clips

[@florianabivona8190]

Another must for me is insect repellent! Especially if you travel to the Caribbean (noseeums are a plague!) or Alaska).

[@CYCO1631]

Rum & Coke at Schooner Bar (RC, Explorer OTS)... $12 ish. So, strategy! Take wine bottle, rinse, sanitize. Fill with rum (750ml, $12-$20ish). Re-cork, pack. Buy 12 cans of coke ($5). Carry onto ship. Ask Schooner bar for whisky glasses. Mix in room. Make 12 rum & cokes, $17-$25.

[@CYCO1631]

Further, avoid corking fee. Pack corkscrew, ask your cabin steward for glasses.. Open wine in room, carry wine in glass to dinner.

[@janismccabe3622]

We bring Tide Pods for laundry. They don't take up much room.

[@LifeWellCruised]

So smart!!

[@priscillabohn4621]

I plan on buying a Hawaii type beach bag for my souveniers like I did in Bahamas and use it for weekend getaways at home

[@LifeWellCruised]

Great idea!!

[@KelleysQuiltsandCruises]

I always bring dryer sheets for sailing on Princess. I like the laundry option. Also bring Ziploc bags. For first aid purposes. Room stewards can supply ice. I have also sweet talked a friendly bartender to fill the bag for me.

[@LifeWellCruised]

Great idea!! I do love my ziplocks too, and hadn’t considered how they can definitely make great little “ice bags”

[@hollypotter6989]

I bring Command hooks. I tried using the magnet hooks but they just slid down the wall. Command hooks stay put and come off easily when it's time to leave. They are reusable and can be used on regular walls in hotels as well. Great for hanging your lanyard with your cruise card by the door.

[@elouise5593]

What I do is buy the magnetic hooks from Amazon and I test them for strength on the side of my refrigerator by hanging whatever I am thinking I will want to hang on them. If they slide down, they are too weak, and I send them back and buy stronger magnets. I found the 40lb strength was strong enough to hang wet swimsuits or most articles of clothing.

[@sandrapearce5167]

Hang the magnets on the ceiling. Won't fail!!!!

[@sunrisephoenix1]

I would also bring sea bands, Dramamine non-drowsy caplets ( ginger), ginger tea bags and candy, for in case of seasickness.

[@priscillabohn4621]

another idea if you are getting there the day before the cruise. iron your clothing the night before you get on ship, also bring downy

[@LifeWellCruised]

Smart!! Great tip

[@kathima6459]

A laundry bag... keeps the clean separate from the dirty and makes for easy transport to the laundromat

[@kristijensen6108]

Amazon has washing detergent sheets. They look like a dryer sheet but it's soap to do laundry. So easy to travel with even in carry on.

[@nicholaslazzari8787]

I have found the water on the ships is made by the ship so it should all be potable. I do agree that the brita cup with filter would be a great idea as well.

[@LifeWellCruised]

Yes it’s supposed to be just fine. It’s amazing that the ship runs like a small city

[@97curtsdad]

We talked to our Norwegian rep and she told us the water on their ships are filtered. They do not provide free bottles of water. So she said all the water on their ships is very good .

[@bryanwhite4845]

The water on all Princess ships is safe to drink. I’ve been told the water in the buffet and restaurants onboard is COLD FILTERED 😎

[@LifeWellCruised]

Awesome!

[@donnaschuepbach3830]

Still tastes yukky to me. 😀

[@josierondeau707]

I bring all what you Said. Another really important are raincoat from the dollar store

[@richardware9174]

When we travel, before leaving, we will identify those shirts / pants / jackets / shoes, etc that are starting to go. When we notice them we will put them to one side of our wardrobe for our next trip. Sure, we will take a good set of things too. When we are packing to come home, the clothes that we identified as being a bit rough or on their way out, go into the bin. We did this for one trip, and even after buying souvenirs, we left home with two carry on bags, and two suitcases, and came home with two carry on bags, and one suitcase. Luckily My wife's suitcase fits inside of my suitcase.

[@OGutzVentura]

I went to Switzerland and i used sheets that it thr actual soap. 48 loads for $10-12 , non liquid, easy to pack, barely any weight to it. Thryre called Breezo Laundry Strips. HUGE saver in $ and space

[@mikez7842]

Traveling with our kids I always have in addition to what you mentioned I also pack sting relief for bees/jellyfish, small bug spray, a can of wound wash, Benadryl for allergies, a roll of tums for immediate relief of heartburn and a bottle of antacid pills for long term. A couple of individual packages 4x4 sterile gauze pads and 2 rolls of Self adhesive bandage wrap, liquid Tylenol for pain relief, lip balm, a small sewing kit for buttons, stain remover pen/wipes, nail clippers and a box of pedylite packets to add to bottled water for everyone to drink to rehydrate and replace the lost electrolytes after a sun filled day or night of partying.

[@LifeWellCruised]

Thanks for adding these things

[@tita8202]

I like the pedylite packet idea

[@mikez7842]

@@tita8202 you’d be surprised how handy those packets come in handy.

[@maiteajuria7981]

My son had an allergic reaction the last evening in a cruise and there was nothing open neither the medical center. So bringing your own medicines is a great idea.

[@LifeWellCruised]

Oh my!! So glad he was ok

[@davidtravis4855]

Next time your in Ocho Rio, Jamaica, go to the blue hole. It’s out of the way but we’ll worth it. Beautiful river and no tourists! It’ll take a bit to find a driver that knows where it is. Reminds me of Gillian’s island.

[@Teresa-ch3og]

Some cruise lines took their over the counter meds out of the gift shop. The concern is that people would try and cover up Covid symptoms so bringing your own is a must.

[@LifeWellCruised]

Yes I’ve heard. I could understand

[@susancook1448]

That’s absolutely cruel-ppl have lots of ailments that aren’t covid

[@pamgiffin4649]

Great ideas! The first aid kit is a must. My husband got a cold on a ship and we had packed our first aid stuff all in a bag, and forgot to put it in the suitcase, so we had nothing. The shop on the ship had no nightime medication- everything was non drowsy,so when he felt the worst, he couldn't get any medication to help him sleep. The snorkelling gear is a great idea. We were on a trip and people rented out the gear. Don't know if they just neglected to clean it after use, but about 3 people got a cold from the rented snorkelling gear. (at least we always assumed that becoase the people who rented gear were the only ones who got the cold). We also pack a folded,light back pack to take on excursions.

[@LifeWellCruised]

Very true the otc meds are so important!

[@CathyGoes]

For future reference, sleep meds are the same as benadryl. I'm sure the ship medical office would have that.

[@penny7205]

I always take a cinch bag (smaller than a big bulky backpack) packed and ready for each individual excursion with tickets, sunscreen, plastic bag (sandy water shoes), bathing suit/cover up, shorts, cap, ponytail holder, water cameras (well that is dating how long I've been cruising...lol), now phone in waterproof pouch, small baggie of snacks, bottle of water, small amount of cash for tips, etc. Having this already packed makes it so quick to grab and go morning of excursion

[@askarsfan2011]

Additional Things to Bring On a Cruise: 1) Bring a lanyard on a ribbon or just with a metal clasp to carry the cabin key/ID card on your body (Walmart). 2) Bring your sunglasses (maybe even two pairs because one always gets lost). 3) Bring your toothbrush and a travel toothpaste, especially if you are staying in an economy cabin. 4) Bring laundry soap sheets in case you need to do a hand wash of your underwear or bathing suits (The Container Store). 5) Bring beach towel clips to hold your beach towels to the pool deck chairs, so the wind doesn't blow your towels off (Amazon). 6) For excursions, bring a water bottle holder with strap, or a fanny pack/water bottle holder combo, or a small over-the-shoulder/cross body travel bag that can handle a water bottle and also carry your ID cards, a credit card, and a little cash (Walmart, The Container Store, or Amazon.) 7) Look for a bathing suit or a sun hat with a pocket to put your cabin key/ID card while you are are swimming in the pool or ocean, so your ID card doesn't get lost or stolen. 8) If you have a gluten allergy, bring your favorite gluten-free cookies or crackers or even bread rolls. The ship will have crap if anything at all. 9) Bring medication or the wrist band for sea sickness (any drugstore or travel store). 10) Bring binoculars, especially if you are touring Alaska or the Mediterranean. 11) Bring a warm coat on the Alaska cruise because when the ship gets up close and personal with the glacier, it's freezing, and no amount of hot chocolate helps. 12) Bring plastic grocery bags to put your dirty clothes in to protect your clean clothes and your suitcase from dirty, sweaty clothes. 13) Bring all your prescription medications in a daily organizer for easy dosing. Take pictures of the presciptions on the bottles and the pills with your cell phone in case you need to prove that you are taking legally prescribed drugs (may be an issue in Europe and Middle East). 14) Bring contact information for your travel agent, your primary care doctor, your health insurance company, and your bank. 15) Bring paper copies of your travel documents in your purse -- don't rely on the ship's crew to scan your cell phone. 16) Bring a paper copy of your passport ID page just in case. 17) If you end up getting medical care on the ship or on shore, get copies of your medical records and your itemized bill for your travel insurance reimbursement. 18) Get travel insurance for your trip. Trust me, that extra $40 bucks will be worth it when you need a medical helicopter to air-lift you to the hospital. 19) Bring feminine hygiene products (you know why). 20) Bring sneakers and a sports bra if you plan to use the gym. 21) Bring home refrigerator magnets as souvenirs. They are small, light, hard to break, and stay on your fridge for years, making you remember all the places you've been every time you get a snack. They are available on the ship and in every port you visit. Get the ones with good magnets that cover the whole back.

[@gwillis01]

My favorite tip is the one about buying refrigerator magnet souvenirs that remind you of the ports you visited

[@brenyule]

@@gwillis01 I buy stickers to put on my guitar case!

[@johnmatyi9776]

😊

[@johnmatyi9776]

,,😊😊

[@johnmatyi9776]

Y😊😊

[@victoriawejko]

I love my turkish towel, it's small and on the plane doubles as a blanket.

[@joec4278]

Great tips! I do have one criticism, you hair looked amazing. Not sure how that could be a bad hair day.

[@LifeWellCruised]

Lol, I seriously need to do my roots / my hairdresser is on a mat leave and I miss her 😉😂

[@wildflowersnhoney209]

In addition to the over the counter medications for headaches, colds, upset tummies, etc. I have found that an ACE bandage was the MOST VALUABLE item. I mis-stepped and twisted my ankle shortly after embarkation. I had ibuprofen & tylenol, and ice galore, but even the ship store and the medical center did not have an ACE bandage. LOL It takes up the amount of a pair of socks and since then I have always taken one on trips. (my Spanish is OK but failed to translate when in MX ports too).

[@pamelabarber1033]

Today at Walgreen I found Poo-Pourri travel size I was very surprise

[@georgegarich252]

I think I think I said this before, but, we get those little tea lites at the dollar store,( use batteries), not open flames. we put out 2 or 3 in cabin and 2 in bathroom. just bright enough to keep from tripping over what ever may be laying around.

[@LifeWellCruised]

Good ideas 💡

[@eundongpark1672]

I have one in my bathroom bag even for when I visit mum and dad and my mother in law. They all live in the country where there is no light pollution and those places are completely dark at night, like, I feel blind

[@annesastarharrysingh922]

I take a duffel bag for debarkation day. We send our luggage the night before.... So it's nice to have one bag to throw in toiletries the morning of debarkation.

[@MissGabriela829]

Antibiotic ointment, cortizone cream, Ibuprophen, tylenol, antacids, baindaids, benadryl, get the patches for nausea.. they are good for 72 hrs,

[@elouise5593]

If buying magnetic hooks, test them by sticking the on the side of your refrigerator and hanging the stuff you may want to hang up in your cabin. If they slide down the refrigerator, you know they will be too weak. I find the 40lb weight is strong enough to hang wet swimsuits or a pair of jeans. I also bring an extra long charger cord for my cell phone, just in case.

[@dorianmeyette8560]

For most cruises, I leave the shampoo, conditioner and body wash at home which saves money and space. I’m cruising RC in a couple of weeks and will be packing these items because RC is pretty lacking in this area, but I generally cruise on Carnival and the showers are pretty well stocked. Oh, and I always bring a coffee mug! I don’t know if it saves me money, but I love having more than just a teeny cup of coffee.

[@davidsimpson969]

good idea

[@shanamarierocks]

I’m going on my first cruise and it will be with carnival. I was planning on bringing these things but not anymore! Thanks for the tip!

[@victorcolombo9272]

In addition to your list, I always bring a small sewing kit😊 A few extra small buttons, different color thread etc.

[@laurathompson1007]

Yes, we needed to hem my hubby's dress slacks and our cabin attendant found a small sewing kit for me to use. Will pack one for our upcoming cruise.😊

[@ellenspitzer3752]

All of your tips are fabulous!I like to bring a cheap blow up ring that I can float on while at the beach...(can't use it on the ship)..I also have taken my own beach umbrella. I use a sarong/Hawaiian cover up for the beach to lay on...doesn't take up much room.I bring one of those dollar store pop up cubes for my under garments...especially when sharing a room with more than 1 person. I bring my own conditioner. Yes..most ships have what they call conditioning shampoo , bars of soap and shower gel..but I have long hair and I need conditioner. Bring a couple hats...especially if you are down south...Caribbean..Mexico, etc... you are near the equator and I have seen so many people so sun burnt ..I loved that someone mentioned a rashguard. I always wear this when snorkling....and swimming. Enjoy your cruise!

[@brigittes5955]

I also use a pop-up cube for my flip-flops, water shoes & sandals. It makes the room more tidy because there's not shoes everywhere.🩴

[@desire2travel]

This is a very specific tip, but if you travel internationally, get your euros or whatever currency you need while still at home. I learned the hard way on my first international cruise and paid an extra fee plus a terrible exchange rate. Now I always use my own bank which charges no fee and a very competitive exchange rate. Also some cruise lines offer wifi, dining, shore excursion discounts if you book before you get on the ship and those discounts are anywhere from 10-30% which really adds up.

[@LifeWellCruised]

Great tips!! Thanks for sharing

[@betsy6046]

Where did you find a foreign exchange? Our credit union does not do exchanges and AAA is not doing it for COVID reasons..not sure I understand that.🤔

[@desire2travel]

@@betsy6046 I bank with Bank of America. I would imagine all major banks (not CUs or S&Ls) will meet your foreign exchange needs. If you’re not a member though, I would imagine there could be a fee. BoA is my primary bank so no fee for me. Hope this helps!

[@Surfcityham]

I use my credit union debit card at a local bank's ATM machine to get Euros or whatever. Some machines will ask if you want the machine to convert to $. You want your financial institution to do the conversion.

[@norriswilliams2558]

And be sure to have a credit card that does not charge an international transaction fee! CapitalOne Venture, Amex platinum and gold, Wells Fargo signature for examples.

[@penny7205]

In addition to antacids, anti-nausea liquid or pills, allergy relief tablets for the change in temperature, etc., cough drops.

[@wendio5437]

We always take our own snorkeling equipment, which we bought on Amazon and it was super cheap. We love to snorkel, which we do everywhere we go in the Caribbean (for free) and on excursions we don’t have to worry about how well their equipment its sanitized.

[@LifeWellCruised]

Great to hear! Thinking it’s a great small investment

[@lolajtek3676]

So do we. Resonable to purchase on Amazon

[@bobaillie]

I always bring a glade bathroom freshener and on long cruises an ikea toilet brush. They clean the toilet twice a day in your room but it’s just nicer.

[@lynnfranklin427]

I bring all duffle bag biggest thumbs up give one as abridal shower present with other gift inside and a note "whereever you may roam this will help you get home" I also include 2 bubble wine packs they love it since most couples now include winery and distllery on their honeymoon and it saves them shipping

[@LifeWellCruised]

Love this!!

[@peggywoods4327]

Great tips! But first, I LOVE your nail polish color! For laundry, try those detergent sheets. They take up very little space and they aren't a liquid. I also just got a Scrubba bag and twisted clothes line (no clips, easier to pack) I always bring an extra bag when I travel. I've also packed things I was about done using and would toss or donate when packing up to go. Then I have room for the new stuff 😉

[@mariyaterzi7364]

I do the same. My travel clothes let’s say half of them are those that I’m planning to donate. And for sure I’ll stop for shopping while I’m on vacation 😊

[@leaveittolefty]

i throw away undies, socks last leg of trip and part used toiletries

[@robertfoerster566]

Also, try getting the emergency dental fillings. You can set a temporary filling if one falls out.

[@cherylmiller1189]

I always bring a book light, extra batteries.

[@priyav3900]

Good tips. I would also take a dental first aid kit, casual sandals to wear in the room and noise canceling headphones 🎧

[@LifeWellCruised]

Brilliant items!!

[@LifeWellCruised]

Great ideas

[@deidresmith9698]

Also if you're on a CARNIVAL cruise... I like the $10 store...for those last minute items or gifts to bring back

[@pamlaminsky9898]

Bring Temp a Dent. Just in case of tooth issues

[@LifeWellCruised]

Good tip

[@claudiamiller7730]

And great advice about the spare duffle bag…used this trick many, many times while on the road!

[@gsdmama2]

Here is a tip that we do and well many don't like to do this but we have done it and it has saved us many headaches. We pack for a carry on and make sure we are at 40 lbs then we use a checked suit case so that way we have room for those souvenirs that way if we do decide to bring any home we have the space and stay under weight. Also we pack a small first aid kit in our excursion bag. We have come across headaches, cuts, diarrhea, upset stomachs, blisters and have been able to save us and others having a first aid kit with us. The kit is smaller than the one that we bring in our suitcase. We now use water socks instead of water shoes. They save room in the suitcase as they are not as bulky. You can wear them in the sand, in the ocean on the pool deck, in the pool. Don't forget a small container of baby powder when you go to the beach. The sand will come right off. Been doing this for years as my brother been surfing since the 70's and it is a trick that him and his friend's used to get the sand off. We love Downy wrinkle release and now I will be taking a small bottle of lysol sanitizer laundry spray. I use it at home especially if I have just worn my clothes for a hour or 2. I hang them up and spray and air them out and spray with some DWR and my closet smells fresh as well and it saves on water too. We always get those looks cause we have the checked bags and a carry on and a personal bag but you know those bags have saved us from many emergencies and so glad that we had all the extras cause you never know. For example, we were in Italy 5 days before our cruise.. I kept my eye on the weather and low and behold rain for the first 2 days. So we packed our umbrellas, jackets, waterproof shoes, so glad that we did. The hotel manager said that it was the worse rain and most rain that they got all year and the past 2 years. I do try to pack light and not bring a lot, but it makes me feel so uncomfortable and not having the extra and we did buy all of our essentials one time at a destination before getting on a ship but that was a big headache, instead of having fun etc, we had to shop and find all what we needed and pack it all up instead of enjoying our trip. So we shop early, save ourselves the headache and pack those extras.

[@LifeWellCruised]

Great comments and tips! I love the backing powder tip. I haven’t done it yet but may next beach vacation

[@nicholaslazzari8787]

I definitely bring my own cup or bottle. That’s 20 I don’t have to spend along with good laundry detergent on a longer trip as well as dryer sheets so I can do laundry and have it cleaned the way I like. Razors tooth brushes and tooth paste. My own soap since it’s better for my skin. Definitely an extra bag folded inside of my suitcase. Extra cellphone chargers in case one breaks. Most ships no longer allow bottles of water but there are cans of water just the same. The bottle of wine if I’m interested. Cans of Perrier water since I don’t drink soda. Extra masks since they are required so I never have to buy one. A lanyard for my card so I don’t have to buy one.

[@LifeWellCruised]

Great list!! Lol masks are now on my list as well - the times :)

[@vb3241]

Does the cruise ship supple towels? Tolietrieslike shampoo and soaps?

[@brenyule]

@@vb3241 yes all three

[@lindalandsberg6094]

I buy water shoes at Walmart at the end of the season for $2. I use them once or twice & get rid of them.

[@LifeWellCruised]

Wow, great deal

[@murrieschraven6050]

We were able to get an eye glass repair kit at the Dollar store. Well worth the peace of mind.

[@LifeWellCruised]

Smart!! Great idea

[@lindahughes954]

I always take a few different kinds of over the counter medicines, like cold, diarrhea, constipation, Tylenol, etc. Our friend paid big bucks for a few Tylenol from the medical clinic on the ship.

[@annelauzon567]

I've been watching all your videos. Your tips are so good. Everything is always useful and most importantly "positive" if I compare to many other youtubers.

[@Desjardins50]

Dr Scholls blister bandages. They. Do the job better than band aids and they don’t fall off.

[@LifeWellCruised]

Great idea! Adding this to my mini pharmacy lol

[@sandyhart5991]

Mole skin is really good for rubbing shoes...no blisters.

[@susananderson1579]

Please do a video on 11 day cruises. The laundry service etc

[@janiceterrigno7797]

I bring OTC cold medicines, cough drops, Bonine, definitely different sized bandages, and wound care, I even bring tooth repair in case a cap falls off 😮 Don’t forget to bring Ambesol in case you get a toothache. Another thing I brought on my last cruise was collapsible fabric bins. The close up flat and fit nicely in a suitcase. I put undergarments in them and put them on the shelves instead of in the draws. I got them at the dollar store. My family laughs at everything I bring but when they needed something that I brought they appreciated it lol

[@LifeWellCruised]

Love it! Great things to bring. Lol, everyone is happy when you have what they need

[@texasboy5117]

We always bring a few empty packing cubes and a few larger plastic bags with us. These are great to use for wet or used clothes. Just fold your used clothes from that day and pack to bring home each day. Saves time on the last day and keeps the closets organized.

[@Friskyhorton]

Most importantly, i take 2 boxes of Avomine, to prevent seasickness, anti diarrhoea tablets, and something for constipation. Vicks vapor rub, cough drops, ointment for rashes, antibiotic ointment and bandaids for cuts and abrasions. Anti nausea medication, panadol, eardrops, and i get antibiotics from my GP before i leave.

[@judytatum5006]

For serious back or neck muscle strains, it is very helpful to have a few Thermocares. The most versatile ones are the ones designed to go across the back just above the shoulder blades but can be used in other areas, especially the lower back. One will give soothing heat for 24 hours. I also be sure to bring a small pair of scissors. It is amazing how often I end up needing them! The blades just have to meet the length requirement in your cruise manual.

[@elouise5593]

Yep, and when you get past a certain age, you can get pulled muscles in your sleep, sometimes!

[@susankeyssecker8195]

Chemical hand warmers are smaller, lighter, last for hours and give similar relief.

[@PChanimal]

Great list! Thank you. Small magnetic sign to put on your front door. Makes it easier to find your cabin.

[@berthadelangel1342]

Save money on specialty coffees. Pack your own creamers. French Vanilla, Hazelnut Etc. and any specific Salad Dressing you like but in your checked in bag.

[@jacquelyns9709]

If you hand wash clothes in sink or tub, you can use the ship's shampoo. It works just fine unless you have highly sensitive skin. You do need laundry detergent for washing machines. You only need a little. Most detergent companies want you to use more than you actually need.

[@LifeWellCruised]

Thanks for the tips

[@hume6900]

What we take on a cruise for laundry are some laundry soap strips. I believe they are put out by Tru Earth or Tru Clean, something like that. What it is basically is compressed laundry powder on perforated paper backing (6 loads) per sheet and they can be cut if you are just doing laundry in your sink. They are not heavy, don’t count towards your liquids. We actually use them at home as well, as they come with very little packaging are eco friendly, just a card stock type sleeve with what they are and how to use them. Just take a sheet or 2 in the original packaging. They can actually live in your usual carry on or personal item when you are not on vacation.

[@NadineCyr]

Thanks great tip

[@eundongpark1672]

I can confirm that shampoo does fine for hand washing clothes

[@hollypotter6989]

Bring a Tide pod or 2 and a couple of dryer sheets in a zip lock.

[@maggiehammer9729]

I always bring plastic hangers for wet swimming suits and clothes that I wash.

[@Mrs.Bell860]

Just ended a 6/5 with Virgin Voyages Scarlet Lady. Forgot pain meds, only option at the ship shop was a 24 ct aspirin for $4. Thought husband packed toothbrushes, purchased on the ship at $8/each. The ship shop had bug spray but no sunscreen which I also forgot 🤣. I actually packed and unpacked these items on accident. I watched this video beforehand but.....😂

[@debbiedaus8001]

I wear glasses and would not be able to see anything snorkeling. I contracted a dive shop and was able to rent prescription lenses. The cost was much cheaper than renting equipment on the trip and my view was clear as the water!

[@LifeWellCruised]

Wow! So great to know. Thanks for that

[@dorothywillis1]

When I travel I always carry the smallest nail brush I can find. Then if I have to wash something in the washbasin and there is a spot that's particularly soiled I can really scrub that spot. For rinsing, if there is a bathtub I just toss the item into the tub and rinse it when I take a bath. If there is no tub, I put the item on a hanger (I always bring a couple of plastic hangers with hooks that swivel with me to use for this. The swivel hooks make it possible to hang up lots of places.) and when I take a shower I rinse the clothing. Then I let it hang to dry in the shower.

[@Bingo_Bling_GlamMa]

I take a mini sewing kit...for buttons or minor repairs to clothing

[@dougwhiting6623]

We usually take a 12 pack of Diet Coke on our cruises, never had a problem until our next cruise. We will be traveling on MSC and they say that is a no no. Also we always bring the little flavored pixie sticks to add in the water bottle when we go on excursions.

[@LifeWellCruised]

Yes they are a line that doesn’t allow it: good odds for the flavours 👌

[@lorim.3697]

Sorry , worse cruise ever MSC!! Omg the upper titled staff got drunk, and made fun of Americans in Italian , rooms dated, dirty, and food horrendous . Don’t do it-- total disaster waste of money 😖

[@hollypotter6989]

We call them squeezers. They are little squeeze bottles of water flavor enhancers you can find them on the Crystal Light aisle of you grocery store. Zero calorie and tons of flavors. No need for pixie stix and they really last. Some even have vitamins and minerals and electrolytes. I just get the story brand cheapy ones.

[@Reed-2big]

On one Southwest flight I had a bag that was 11 lbs overweight! I had an extra duffle type bag unsuitable for shipping, however one of the carryons was suitable. I quickly grabbed the packing cubes that I thought were the heaviest and moved them to the carryon, moving what had to be in carton into the duffle. The agent couldn’t believe anyone could get 11 lbs out of a suitcase and first shot I got 12 lbs out! We each had one suitcase, so there wasn’t a charge for checking the carryon as luggage. But even if there had been a second bag is cheaper than an overweight bag! We never travel without duffles or at least canvas bags. They’ve saved more than a few trips and one was a group leader who had a bag break in an airport in China!

[@LifeWellCruised]

Wow!! That’s impressive

[@Reed-2big]

@@LifeWellCruised I must admit I was not used to 50 lbs limits at the time! I now can pack the same bag just below 5 lb or a bit more below 70 lbs internationally. Anyone who has had a bag fail even if just on a land tour knows that those extra, and fairly light, folding duffel bags.

[@janetwalker9476]

First time cruiser here! Your videos have been very helpful! I leave in 3 weeks!

[@katheyjberry]

Hope you are having the time of your life!!

[@Rivercat0338]

Late to this video but I just booked my first cruise in ages. A tip I followed before was to bring along a few garment hanger clips so that if you wash something in your sink or just want to dry your swimsuit, you can hang them in the shower. I also bring a small steamer to clean or "iron" clothes.

[@brenyule]

Steamers or irons are not allowed

[@Rivercat0338]

@@brenyule yeah, I found that out. They still allowed steamers on my last cruise in 2008.

[@stanleyfrieman6052]

Bring a thermometer in case you are under th e weather [

[@sharolynwells]

Ilana, I think your hair looks great. Us natural curly hair girls have one thing going for us--no need for curlers.

[@sct4040]

My husband was sick from day 1 thru day 7 of our cruise, what a bummer. Needed cold meds. Will be packing them next time.

[@clittle1807]

Always bring soda we don't drink much soda so one can per person per day, wine, energy drinks, and medications . Favorite item tide to go pen.. And a empty bag for souvenirs.

[@LifeWellCruised]

Great - smart to bring energy drinks too. Omg I’m such a fan of tide to go pens as well

[@betsy6046]

I'd like to see what you pack in your "home" first aid kit.

[@LifeWellCruised]

Great! Thanks for the feedback

[@SueSculler]

Me too!

[@tduck828]

Band aids, ibuprofen/tylenol, sea sick pills, neosporin, dayquil/nyquil capsules (trust me - i got really ill on a cruise one year), allergy meds

[@LifeWellCruised]

@@tduck828 oh no!! Poor you

[@jacquelyns9709]

Theresa has a good basic list. Add anti-diarrhea pills. If you take prescription medications bring several extra days worth with you in case you get delayed on your travels. (For instance you fly on 1 day, stay at hotel 1 day, cruise for 7 days, fly another day. That means you need 10 days of medicine if all goes well. Add 3 to 4 days more of medicine.) Do not forget your prescription medicine at home. Pack it in your carryon which you keep with you at all times. You can pack First Aid Kit with over the counter medicine in your checked luggage since those items can be replaced easily. Exception to that is if you are allergic to certain ingredients. Then handle your first aid medicines as if they are prescriptions. Also be aware that over the counter medicines in one country may be prescription medications in another country or totally banned. US residents should check State Department website for this.

[@brendadodd2908]

Great tips ! Lessons learned. We once paid $12 for a small bottle of Aloe Vera in Bermuda.Water shoes are a definite on every cruise too !

[@LifeWellCruised]

For sure! :)