11 Things You Should ALWAYS Bring On Your Cruise

[@roundandroundmyworld]

Losing your sunglasses brought back a memory of my very first-ever cruise, back in 1994, on a Blue Lagoon cruise in Fiji. My sunglasses had loosened and dropped off my nose and over the side into the ocean while I was standing on the deck watching the fish around the ship. Later, after we'd sailed on to our next stop, I mentioned it to someone else and a crew member overheard me, cut in, and said, "I wish you'd told me -- I was looking for an excuse to go diving!"

[@nicolefink4240]

I lost my Channel sunglasses in the ocean at Cozumel! 🥺

[@markwestaway7207]

On our first cruise, one of our travelling companions lost her reading glasses before we'd even left port. It was a bit of a grind at our first overseas port (Noumea) to find an optometrist, but it gave her her first opportunity to try contact lenses.

[@andreagriffiths3512]

I had a little staycation last week and the pillows in my hotel room were way too soft. In the past I would NEVER have thought to say anything. But thanks to all these cruise vids I’ve watched, I had the wherewithal to write a note asking for a firmer pillow. Yes, it caused me some anxiety because I’m not the type to ‘complain’ but when I got back from my day out, there was a firmer pillow and I slept like a baby for the rest of my trip. So thank you for teaching me that it’s not just on cruise ships that you can use these tips. And thank you for teaching me that it’s ok to ask. 💕

[@mysavescgf2640]

Of course it’s okay to ask! You’re paying for the cruise or hotel. You should be comfortable!

[@andreagriffiths3512]

@@mysavescgf2640 I know right? Pity my anxiety issues and ASD have taught me to just put up with stuff and not make a fuss. I’m getting better at realising I’m not being difficult or demanding or a ‘Karen’ when I really do need things fixed. I’m fairly easy pleased but I was in so much pain in my neck I had to do something. I very nearly just went out to buy a pillow - I stopped myself at the store entrance and told myself to just leave a note asking. I could have called housekeeping but that meant using the phone and seemed a bit ‘confrontational’ which made my anxiety flare too much. Next time I’ll just ask for one on booking the room.

[@safari79]

Once you've taken photos of all your documents, email them to yourself. That way you can always access them- even if something happens to your phone!

[@tipsfortravellers]

Agree! I put them in a Dropbox folder but definitely as you say have them where you or someone else can access digitally

[@chriswilliams6568]

emailing is not safe though, this is why we NEVER put a credit card number in an email.

[@davoshaunessy3428]

Have 2 email addresses as well

[@lolajtek3676]

Also email to a trusted friend or relative.

[@tinaanderson200]

Yeap, I'll scan those into my email before .

[@cijmo]

Keep prescriptions in their own bottles! Also, as people are saying, take pictures of all of your ID, passports, itineraries and such and email a copy to yourself and maybe to one person who is not on your trip. I always take a picture of my baggage, too so that when it goes missing with the airlines, I can just show them the picture LOL.

[@chriswilliams6568]

Not a good idea to send by email passport or credit card info. Emails are not safe. But the photos of luggage is a great idea.

[@justinnoice399]

As a former professional mariner I think you forgot the most important item - a small waterproof flashlight. Yes the phone has a flashlight but it dies with water. When the power goes out and the ship is sinking it would be nice to be able to find your way out. It’s also great by the berth to find your way to the bathroom without waking your partner up.

[@tipsfortravellers]

Hopefully the waterproof aspect doesn’t ever get put to the test

[@chriswilliams6568]

We take a nightlight for the bathroom.

[@locutusdborg126]

I also carry a small knife in case terrorists come aboard and I have to save everyone. I'll pose as the cook.

[@lottosal]

We like the room really dark for sleeping, most nightlights tend to be too bright. So, we bring a pack of glow sticks from the dollar store and put one on the bathroom door handle each night.

[@coz7891]

@@lottosal oooo that's a really great tip. Never thought of that. Thanks.

[@trowan9495]

Great tips! I also recommend take photos of all of your important documents; passport, driver's license and credit card, then email it to yourself so if phone lost or damaged you can just sign on to your email and get the info. Also always pack an ace wrap! I can't stress that enough! Every cruise I've been on someone in my party needed it. Don't want to twist your ankle on cobble stones and then can't enjoy the rest of the cruise.

[@margaretcarr6387]

Forgot the ACE bandage. Needed one.

[@cherifurr3935]

Hadn’t even thought about an Ace bandage-good idea!

[@yolandadickmann428]

Magnetic hooks - stick to cabin walls and provide extra space to hang hats, handbag, raincoat.

[@2323nurse]

Lots and lots of magnet hooks. Get the package from Amazon. You will be suprised how much you can hang on them.

[@andrewburton5910]

This doesn't always work. We were on Fred Olsen's Borealis recently and surprisingly magnets didn't stick to anything!

[@33Jenesis]

One item I always bring with me in my handbag when travel is a headlamp. I use it to read, to make my way to the loo, to check nooks and crannies, as safety measure walking in the dark. My hands are free by wearing the lamp on my head or neck (for walking). The usb charged one is cheap and light weight.

[@achevres]

Great idea!

[@w0mblemania]

I bought a really good small torch for this purpose. But I ended up never using it. I just use my phone's torch instead.

[@kimberlypage6344]

I always appreciate you putting chapters on your videos, I don't always need them but it's really helpful and nice. Thank you

[@tipsfortravellers]

Glad you like them! I do when I watch videos so thought other may like them too

[@loispalumbo6632]

When discussing clothes for shore excursions, don’t forget appropriately covering up if you’re visiting something like a church or mosque where women must cover shoulders and/or knees.

[@keith6400]

And of course No Camoflage!

[@happytraveller2122]

Large scarves take up little room and are great for covering heads and shoulders. Also takes the chill off if it gets cool

[@traceybartlam7737]

@@keith6400that depends where you are going. It wouldn’t be an issue on a round the uk cruise!

[@ladykayla7417]

Also remember to try on the clothes you are planning to take, especially those you haven’t worn in a while. You might find they no longer fit properly. It can be really frustrating if you’re getting ready for a formal evening and you find your dress shirt or your evening gown is too tight or too loose.

[@jeannemiller93306]

I’m sorry, can you explain this too loose thing. I don’t understand. 😂

[@tipsfortravellers]

Great tip!!! I always do that if taking a suit or dinner jacket as can be a very long time - that try on has become more telling than weighing myself (sometimes good news but mostly not..!)

[@gingernightmare9152]

safety pins and a mini sewing kit are essentials too!!

[@jacquelyns9709]

@@jeannemiller93306 You may have lost a lot of weight. Your body may have redistributed it's weight and your clothing grapes where it shouldn't.

[@nocturn791]

@@tipsfortravellers - same, and as I learnt the hard way, it may be worth a timely check for moth damage.

[@bbarron3836]

My packing list covers 100% of your recommended items. I also added masks and binocular (for Alaska).

[@bradfirestone533]

I had no idea that there are no dentists on board. That was the most important nugget I learned. Thanks Gary.

[@cherylkoski7184]

WHAT???

[@davoshaunessy3428]

Dentists to poor to travel ???

[@tonymack5162]

We always take a Brita water filter jug with us. We filter the cabins tap water supply. This saves us buying the ships bottled water. We've done this on every cruise and had no health issues by drinking the filtered ships tap water. The water supply on cruise ships is usually heavily chlorinated and our Brita filter removes most of the chlorine taste. I can't categorically say that this will suite everyone but it definitely works well for us.

[@billsimonis]

I usually take a usb charging station that has multiple ports (5 or more). and also a backup battery for your phone or other usb devices. I also with bring a set of clothes pins. These are not for hanging wet clothes but to clasp on the window curtain to keep them close at night. It helps keep the sunlight from coming in the window at dawn or dusk. I also bring a small back pack to hold not only personal items but souveniers. A back pack helps to distribute the load by carrying on it on your back.

[@teesong6801]

Had a transgression where we thought the other had packed the passports! Luckily we had sailed with the cruise line so they accepted a scanned copy of them. It helped that I was active duty military and my family had military dependent IDs as well. From then on, passports are the first things we pack!!

[@dboutier5636]

For a extra fee in the United States you can get a passport card along with your passport. This is about the size of a drivers license. I always carry mine when I travel. I keep it separate from my drivers license in another bag or at the hotel or house I’m staying at. That way if something happens to my drivers license I can still fly home. This is also be great for taking off the ship. I have a lot of crowns and my dentist recommended not to use the glue you can buy in the pharmacy but to use Vaseline. I have used it several times even when I’ve had to be wait a few days at home to get an appointment. It works perfectly - probably not for corn on the cob - but it was excellent. He recommends that you take the crown off at night on the slim chance that you might swallow it. I always have a small plastic case in my purse with some Vaseline in it. You might also be able to get it from the ships doctor. Happy cruising and stay safe

[@Scarface1337_]

You can't fly with passport card

[@sabrinad.thomas3397]

I always bring an eyeglass repair kit with me and my sister needed it to replace a screw that fell out of the frame of her glasses. I also added a thermometer to my first aid/medical kit and it proved to be valuable when I got bit by some bug in Tortola and found out I had a fever. I'm so glad I had Tylenol with me.

[@cessnaes]

Before i travel,I take photos with my cell phone-passport,drivers license,my TSA precheck,credit cards front and back.I also put a sheet of paper on top of my clothes in the luggage,name,telephone number home address,and flight info,airport information..

[@jacquelyns9709]

giuseppe These are great tips. One change I recommend, especially for solo travelers, is put your business address on & in your luggage if at all possible. You don't want strangers going to your empty home. (It does happen.) Use a money belt. And pare down your wallet and purse. Do you need every key on your chain? Leave those mail box, extra car keys, neighbors or children's house keys, office keys safe at home. Do you need every store card and library card you own? Do you need coins? (You might if your ship has a self service laundry & you use it. You won't need pennies, pence, or the equivalent.)

[@cessnaes]

@@jacquelyns9709 excellent tips..

[@poutinenator]

Agree! I take photos of everything into my safekeeping app like Signal (for example). One video suggested to take a picture of the time to get back on board, before leaving your ship.

[@ozonebaby5161]

On the topic of glasses Take an old credit card and wrap a couple feet of duct tape - the things you can fix are through the roof ( glasses electrical wires etc ) and a credit card is so useful - wrap a couple elastic bands around the tape as well

[@cherifurr3935]

I always take duct tape too!

[@susanrnbc]

I travel with a mini pharmacy-prescription meds, over the counter meds, bandaids. Way too hard to get what you need on a ship and it does save a trip to the ship’s medical center very often. Love the dental repair kit idea! Going to order for my next cruise!

[@cherifurr3935]

Me too!

[@DaleGoins]

One thing I've done to get around taking power strips or extension cords is to use the USB ports on my computer to charge my phone, iPad, camera, etc. Some USB hubs also allow you to charge your devices with them. Most are the size of a pack of playing cards or smaller so they don't take a lot of space when packing.

[@davepratt9909]

The engineer in me: If anything is critical, bring a spare. The only place this doesn't apply is in traveling companions. Don't tell you spouse that you need to bring a spare of them.

[@tipsfortravellers]

Love that 😀😀😀

[@kcroyals85]

Now that is funny

[@carine4318]

Who needs a partner 😜 I can go to every bar in board and enjoy peace and quiet and more fun 🤩one happy single

[@RobKandell]

Young Engineer: “Why not?” Old Engineer: “Just trust me on this.”

[@debpen]

😂😂😂

[@elinorosterhoudt7932]

I'd add to your recommendation of a dental repair kit, that you buy a new one at least every year. They really dry out and become unusable after a few months or so--I learned this the hard way. They're very inexpensive, and well worth the new purchase fairly often!

[@tipsfortravellers]

Good point !

[@lottosal]

Good call, we needed one once on vacation and now wouldn't travel without it... But admittedly, I haven't purchased a new kit in several years. Thanks for the suggestion!

[@happytraveller2122]

Never heard of these??

[@celesteinman56]

Oil of clove tools awesome for tooth aches. Ask a pharmacist. It's very inexpensive. Comes in a small glass bottle. Helpful if u have some cotton swabs to apply to problem tooth..

[@PatchaChel]

Gary is awesome! He is so down to earth and makes it enjoyable learning how to have the best time & not forget things. Thanks Gary!

[@happytraveller2122]

Always carry a washing line , highlighter pen, sticky tape , a couple of envelopes ( gratuities) full first aid, plug converter, stick on basket/shelf for the bathroom …. Dollar shops have these and are fabulous for freeing up bench space .. magnets and magnetic hooks. Books to swap in the ships library

[@teresashelley3863]

I also make sure I have a small sewing kit and / or safety pins.

[@rmtmiller]

Extra set(s) of all prescription glasses is absolute.

[@mysavescgf2640]

A tight eyeglass holder to go around your neck is a good idea. Also, for the ladies, a small jewelry repair kit with spare jump rings and earring backings!

[@isend2c]

I was so proud of my thought too bring XL binder clips. It allowed us to clip up our bathing suits and towels so that they could dry easier.

[@HeatherTravels]

Great tips! The suggestion to pack an extra pair of sunglasses really jumped out at me. I have incredibly sensitive eyes and would be in agony without my sunglasses.

[@tipsfortravellers]

It definitely is. That trip where I lost mine on the Mekong and couldn’t get a replacement for days was really uncomfortable as was really bright and I too realised just how sensitive I was too

[@lolajtek3676]

Same for me, light sensitive. I always take a few xtra pairs as well as xtra reading glasses.

[@bobbyg65]

At 56 yo I have yet to take my first cruise as my wife is totaly reluctant to go on a ship..I may have to do a solo cruise and your videos have given me so much valuable info !!! Thank you Mr. Bembridge !!

[@tipsfortravellers]

Thanks for watching and great to hear. I hope you can convince her, or maybe doing one solo and coming back telling her how good it was may convince her to do the next with you

[@ivarnordlkken8082]

I am 59 and have never been on a cruise. After discovering theese videos, I am actualle consider it for next year. Maybe try a Baltic cruise as a test run.

[@chriswilliams6568]

@@ivarnordlkken8082 A Baltic cruise is fab. The secret is to choose a cruise line that is a good fit for you.

[@gwendolynmoore3698]

..Yes, Bob..Solo cruising is GREAT!!(Since 2014) The Couples always were inquiring about My daily plans..**You Will Have A Ball!!🎉🎉**

[@gwendolynmoore3698]

I am Doing a *Countdown* on my phone for (July 2022)🎉🎉🎉

[@juratebrennan7874]

Painkillers, take some painkillers. On a port day at the med center, a lady refused to give me any painkillers for period pain. Some crazy rule because it was not a sea day. Those few hours waiting till they would let people out of the ship felt like days.

[@2000konnie]

Nice list, in particular I agree with the first aid items. I always take a small tube of antiseptic ointment (bacitracin) as well a few plasters/brandades whenever I take a trip out of the country.Has been a trip saver, for sure. In addition, a nail clipper for hangnails. Also, I always bring a backup pair of eyeglasses. Right now my backup is an old prescription, but I can still get around in a pinch wearing them. - So any major toiletries. Back in the old days when I just winged packing instead of making a packing list, I forgot toothpaste. It's very expense on the ship - if you can even buy it anymore.

[@tipsfortravellers]

Nice tips 👍🏻👍🏻

[@blatherskite9601]

Immodium or other loose bowel-fixer is important too!

[@chriswilliams6568]

Yes, and I need Sensodyne Repair, as have such sensitive teeth, I bet I could not buy that in most places.

[@chriswilliams6568]

Meds are a must have too.

[@thomashinojosa6527]

A flashlight, especially if you have an inside room, generators have failed. Also extra shoe laces and a small sewing kit, can come in handy

[@kyd2868]

6:25, Be careful with this stuff. If you choose to use it, see your dentist afterward as soon as possible. This is meant for TEMPORARY REPAIR. Bacteria can get trapped underneath the temporary filling material and cause decay and possible tooth loss if allowed to remain for too long.

[@susangilliam6400]

I was thinking the same....get that dental appt ASAP upon return to clean it out and repair!

[@cherifurr3935]

Of course see a dentist as soon as you get home.

[@TheRedspartan99]

Packing for a cruise today lol perfect timing 😅

[@tipsfortravellers]

Nice! Where to and what line?

[@TheRedspartan99]

@@tipsfortravellers going to Cozumel, Belize, and Roatan from the Carnival Vista. This will be my first cruise so I’ve been binge watching all of your cruise tip videos in preparation for it!

[@LilJonBigNuts]

@@TheRedspartan99 what date?

[@coz7891]

@@TheRedspartan99 I've travelled that itinerary & loved it. So how was it? How was your first cruise?

[@raymullen3583]

Always good reminder VIDO.. with a couple new ideas.... Thanks....

[@denisep.98]

This was an excellent list, well thought out!

[@laurenstrasser]

This is one of your best videos! So helpful, thanks!

[@tipsfortravellers]

Thanks!! Appreciate you watching

[@cherifurr3935]

Ear plugs are good too!

[@cynthiahearden5438]

Good idea to take clothes for surprising weather. I went to Alaska in June and took warm clothes and had no t-shirts or shorts when the weather got very warm. I had to go to an Ace Hardware store and buy a couple of t-shirts.

[@stephenschulte3996]

Just excellent! I especially liked the dental repair kit - I never knew that even existed!! Chipped a tooth at the end of my last cruise 2 weeks ago and wish I’d had that! Thanks! Other: Photos of important documents on your phone are OK - but iPhones can get stolen or lost… I also do a nice folder for each vacation/cruise and am glad to have real paper copies with me. Itinerary and key events in one handy, attractive folder. Thanks again for your fine KZbin cruise videos, Gary.

[@adjustableWench]

if im not mistaken ive heard that people will sometimes take a copy of their passport into port as opposed to the actual passport

[@simonb7715]

Excellent tip for taking and storing on photos for important docs.

[@philkhk]

I'm happy that I scored all 11 of them. :)

[@tipsfortravellers]

Hooray !!!

[@cindylewis3730]

Great info. Thanks. Planning a Transatlantic cruise in December. So excited!

[@vigal79]

I came across this gentleman because I have watched other cruising videos. And I love his comments. I have never been on a cruise but, would like to someday. The one thing that I have an issue with, is the fact that I don’t use credit cards. I have gotten in trouble way too much with them personally. So, don’t know how that could be rectified. Or remedied. Without bringing tons of cash. I don’t like carrying cash as I am also totally blind.

[@gracij]

First aid kit, be sure to add cough drops and preferred cold remedy. The last day+ of a 2019 Norway cruise (a sea day) many of us developed coughs, sore throats, sneezing. The ships' store had run out of those OTC meds. Lemon Tea helped some. When we finally docked in Amsterdam, I went to a pharmacy. Difficult deciphering meds and ingredients. Will always pack now.

[@jasonlott4885]

To go along with spare glasses, take a eye glass repair kit.

[@tipsfortravellers]

Nice tip!!!!

[@Groegselmaschupp]

And always place your spare specs (normal&sun) in the hand luggage!

[@susangilliam6400]

Excellent tips! Will listen again and take note.

[@JBass33]

If you are taking prescription medication, especially any opiate medication, and you are on a cruise that visits ports outside of your home country be sure to check the laws applying to those drugs in the countries you are visiting. For example, I take an opioid medication and needed a letter from my doctor listing the drug, the reason it was prescribed, the strength of the drug, etc. for a river cruise that involved stops in Holland, France, Germany and Switzerland. Embassies and Consulates often have web sites that include what drugs are regulated and what documentation you might need.

[@marthaworc7873]

Question: Couldn't you keep your medications in the cabin safe? Why would anyone take any drug out of their cabin?

[@markkerstetter4616]

I bring two small night lights.. Sometimes these are useful to navigate a cabin or hotel room in the dark. I believe Viking ships may have one in the bathroom. Perhaps these will be more of a fixture in the future.

[@Ken-iy9mb]

Yes, I did for years until one ship security folks took it from me and said it was a fire hazard…..what??….they gave it back at the end of rage cruise.

[@markkerstetter4616]

@@Ken-iy9mb It surprises me too that someone would consider a night light a fire hazzard or otherwise dangerous. It's very small and simple. Maybe the crew member was "just following orders" and wanted to err on the conservative side. Don't know how something is built? Confiscate it until the end of the cruise.

[@tipsfortravellers]

I am finding more of the newer ships have night lights (as guess they’re seeing more people wanting these). But the downside is I find them too bright to sleep

[@markkerstetter4616]

@@tipsfortravellers I agree. We took a river cruise on the Viking Ve, a newer ship. If you left the nightlight on in the bathroom you needed to either leave the door slightly ajar or turn off the nightlight. The nightlight was a white strip of light that ran the entire length of the sink area. The small lights I carry still were valuable in older hotels.

[@markeaston7353]

I've never heard of a dental repair kit but I will be sure to track one down for my next trip. Great idea thanks Gary.

[@auntydale3379]

I found some on Amazon. One that was just for crowns was under $4 and another that was also for fillings was over $15.

[@markeaston7353]

Thanks @@auntydale3379 I will have a look at Amazon.

[@banana9106]

Absolutely would suggest that you take a medical kit with you on ANY holiday. Would suggest you take Dioralyte rehydration salts. These are very useful in the event of not only diarhorrea, but also for urinary tract infections and heat stroke. Plasters, but also blister pads. A variety of painkillers including plain old paracetamol, because you can drink on paracetamol alone. Aspirin for dry days and codeine in case of serious pain.

[@dharvey4387]

Ive been told that following Brexit UK citizens should be careful regarding the 6 "month left" rule. They should calculate how many month are left from the date of issue not from the expiry date. This is something to do with the extended time element no longer being valid. Something to be aware of and double check.

[@02sparklestars02]

Extra charging cables. My cable broke while I was in South America. I had to buy one in the airport. Cost me $30 US. I always take at least one extra of each kind.

[@dlamiss]

Top man Gaz One thing i would CERTAINLY recommend is if you are a one way fly cruise check your baggage weight. We did a 21 day Southampton to Dubai cruise a couple of years ago In january so we took two wardrobes as it was expected to be cold for the first week or so. ironically the bay of biscay was the calmest it had been in January for years ......and of course you can take as many cases on a coach to the cruise terminal as you like but are limited with the flight baggage coming home. we were about 8lbs over flying back from Dubai and were charged £180

[@tipsfortravellers]

Great point !! Thanks for adding that

[@chriswilliams6568]

That goes without saying really, one always must check the airline rules, and be sure to check the allowance for your specific fare type.

[@dlamiss]

@@chriswilliams6568 Fair comment but if you are on a "two season" cruise its nowhere near as easy as it sounds especially for a longer trip

[@chriswilliams6568]

@@dlamiss yes I know as we often travel to Europe, do a cruise then visit family in Barcelona and England, for 3-4 weeks total, so really difficult to keep luggage to one case weighing under 23 kg each. This is why I hate any formality on a cruise as that needs more clothing. Plus we take the grandkids gifts.

[@dlamiss]

@@chriswilliams6568 On other cruises the cases were left outside the room at around 11pm the night before disembarkation and the next time we saw them was the home airport but for the Dubai Trip the same thing applied BUT were then left at the coach terminal just off the ship so we put them on the coach took them off at the airport and then through Dubai customs. was really poor organisation. Things may have improved since

[@dsalmeron]

A light jAcket / poncho. Especially depending on where you going. We had to buy ponchos on our Canada trip. It wasn’t a big deal but still

[@shibolinemress8913]

It's a good idea to see your dentist a few weeks before your cruise so they can tell you if any problems might arise, and have time to take care of them before you ship out. (Same goes for your GP/family doctor, of course. They can also help you get any vaccinations required/suggested for any of the ports you'll be docking at.) Checkups before the cruise are always a good idea. Also be sure your travel insurance covers any dental work you might need portside. And in any case, pack that dental first aid kit.

[@chriswilliams6568]

Insurance only covers emergency dental, like if you have an accident and some teeth get knocked out. Not maintenance dental, that you should get done before you leave home.

[@shibolinemress8913]

@@chriswilliams6568 😊👍

[@Star-Boarder]

Excellent list.

[@tipsfortravellers]

Thanks 👍🏻

[@chriswilliams6568]

Thank you Gary. Always good to be reminded.

[@hellohowareyoudavid3468]

Hello Chris,how are you doing

[@sjm2726]

Oh the coincidence. This video popped up on my feed the same day my daughter was offered a job as a dancer on a cruise-liner😅💃🏼

[@maryherje7120]

Very helpful as always!

[@tipsfortravellers]

Glad to hear it!

[@maggiesays7827]

I have found that taking prescription sunglasses is a good idea because they are likely to be turned in if you leave them somewhere on the ship.

[@gazza2933]

I didn't know about credit cards being a 'must have' Thank you.

[@debsue503]

gary .. love you videos .. where can I download your packing list.

[@lynnfranklin427]

We got a clear zipper bag ( cosmetic size) we purchased extra or our chargers they stay permentaly in carry on bag. It even fits a cruise approved Bar for extra plugs

[@BruceJSkelly]

1. In the US when you get a passport, you can also get a passport card. This is a credit card sized government issued photo ID that is good for ten years. 2. Some mapping apps like Google Maps allow you to download offline versions of their maps, so you don’t have to worry about having WiFi or cellular while exploring in port. You can mark the place where the shuttle picks up to return to the ship.

[@barbarawadkins6002]

Gary, one thing I always travel with (as a large sized person) is "chub-rub"! (I pack Calmoseptine). Heat rash is no fun!

[@yolandam611]

Omg. I have been suffering with heat rash every summer my whole life and nothing helps but to stay inside. I've never heard of this ointment before now. this helps your heat rash?

[@hellohowareyoudavid3468]

Hello Barbara,how are you doing

[@suzannadannaTARDIS]

Question for you, Gary. If you miss the boat, fall ill while in port, or otherwise are stuck at a port, wouldn't it be better to have your passport instead of just your government issued ID? I've always been guided to bring my passport with me when departing the ship - even for a few minutes to run to a port duty-free shop/

[@yt_energy]

and when you lose your passport at port, how do you get back to your country?

[@woltews]

befor watching, 1- ticket 2- wallet with ID cards cash , 3- steril smart world phone , 4- passport and visas , 5-meds and percriptons , 6- aparopreat clothing ,7-bathroom kit , 8-mostly empty bag to bring stuff home in , 9-mult tool , 10-steril laptop or tablet ,11- first aid kit ( know how to use evrething in it and know your own stuff )

[@tipsfortravellers]

Great list !

[@robleygarrigan6480]

I always travels with an ace bandage and an ice bag. Some suggest zip loc bags but they leak with ice in them. Have used both many times!!!

[@chrise.321]

Upon returning to the ship in St. Thomas, we were chastised for not having our passports with us. It was our first stop (my 2nd cruise) and I couldn't remember if we needed them in port so we left them in the safe. Now I always have it on me if I leave the ship.

[@hotladyleo]

They always told us to take on shore bc.if u miss boat you can be flown back but not without passport

[@kimwayman4]

10 foot extension cord. Needed it on NCL as plug was in midday of room and heating pad didn’t reach

[@Lloyd-Black]

The 12th thing people usually forget while on a cruise or any vacation is 'common sense'. People seem to forget that along with their brains in general. I live near Orlando, FL, USA and tourists are always acting like they left their brains at home along with general common sense. I try to avoid Orlando during the busy season, which is almost all the time now. However, Gary's video is great and always find his videos to be useful, informative and entertaining. Keep up the great work, Gary.

[@bonniemoore6794]

Definitely back up RX glasses. My RX sunglasses were stolen from my backpack a few cruises ago. Rotan a man bumped into my backpack and stole what he probably thought was my wallet. Insurance didn't covervthem. I was out my sunglasses thankfully my sister had these huge sunglasses that go over my RX glasses. Lesson learned. I always pack a second set of RX glasses. My previous ones.

[@travelintheworks1593]

Just found you and your great videos and advice! Glad to be here, thank you for the time you take! :)

[@twinkholland8392]

My husband is a retired dentist, license still current. He’d love to be a ship’s dentist!

[@jackmchammocklashing224]

Your suitcase with clothes Air France sent mine to Venice and flew me to Paris, I spent 14 days with an old pair of jeans and my meals behind a screen in the MSC restaurants Initally the cruise started on a Friday, which was a bank holiday, so when I arrived at the port all the shops were shut On board the Boutique anything over a 32" waist was a no no,, as it was in most of the ports of call :-(

[@erniesmith2579]

2:45 Great suggestion to have your smartphone with you (though nowadays can anyone be without it?!) However, it is worth a warning to turn off the cellular/roaming service when boarding. Cell calls and data while at sea can be horrifically expensive, and you want to be sure you don’t incur service charges. It’s also worth contacting your provider before departure for any available special international roaming pricing while on your travels.

[@316bernadette]

I put mine on Airplane mode. Can still use the apps but don't get roaming charges. Take it off in port.

[@lolajtek3676]

Purchase Travel Insurance is a must.

[@abbienormals1669]

In my experience, here's my guess for the top few before watching the video: a lanyard, COMFORTABLE flip flops or sandals (those ships are HUGE) band-aids/first aid kit, Imodium (or some anti-diarrhea med), and to go with that, some air freshener or poo-pourri if you're sharing the room with someone, and a proper sized container of pain meds.

[@chapman1569]

I suggest adding some powdered electrolytes to help rehydrate in case of diarrhea.

[@marcomarcon5802]

Gee, I hope I can find my tuxedo and it still fits me, last time (the only time) I used it was in 1987

[@kcroyals85]

I always have a list of thing to remember to pack, but thanks to this I will add a couple of ideas you gave. Thanks

[@Michelle-cd7tf]

Great video thanks!

[@tipsfortravellers]

Thanks! Appreciate you watching

[@carolynmurtaza1180]

Also if your in the UK, buy the Boots complete first aid kit with over 50 items for £20. It has everything including resuscitation mask etc If you don't use it it cam be kept in either car or house.

[@carolyncoulter4116]

I carry 3 pairs of glasses. In Italy, I had taken off my glasses and put them in the front pocket of my purse. A young girl in the rest room I was in picked my pocket and stole my glasses. I was so glad I had an extra pair at my hotel.

[@mjfreespirit]

Can you do an in depth video on cigar connoisseurs and what cruises are best?

[@lindac6919]

I always take a nightlight and/or a flashlight. The dental kit is a great idea! I also take a little blow-up swim ring that fits in my bag, just in case.

[@hellohowareyoudavid3468]

Hello how are you doing

[@carine4318]

Never knew about the dental tool kit -will have a google

[@jesicaraymond6434]

Thank you

[@anslowp1]

If you rely heavily on your cell phone, I don't recommend charging it directly from the ship's power. One stray power surge can impact your phone. I bring a few battery packs that I use to charge my phone(s) and I recharge those batteries from the ship's power.

[@AllySa33]

That's brilliant. I never would have thought of that. Thank you!

[@johndare3576]

I have never had any problems having my debit card accepted without a deposit on cruises. I only use my credit card for emergencies, I use my debit card for virtually everything else on land and sea.

[@angelastevenson15]

So is it ok if you don't own a credit card. I have my debit card but really don't want to get a credit card. I really want to go on a cruise though but now I'm worried I won't be able to without getting a credit card. Can you please clarify if I need one or not...

[@Love2Cruise]

@@angelastevenson15 Cruise lines usually put a few hundred dollars on hold on a card, either credit card or debit card. So you can cruise with a debit card. That said, I don’t ever use my debit card since it’s linked to my checking account. If any unauthorized uses happened, those money are out of my account until the bank posts the refunds. On a credit card, not my money and I don’t need to pay until close to the end of next statement cycle. That’s more than enough time for banks to sort out the credits due from unauthorized transactions. You don’t pay anything to use a credit card when you payoff the statement balance every month. You could be losing out on money with all these no-annual-fee cash back cards out there.

[@angelastevenson15]

@@Love2Cruise ok thanks for the advice that's really helpful to know...

[@jacquelyns9709]

@@angelastevenson15 Years ago they let those of us with no credit or debit cards (they didn't exist back then) deposit several hundred dollars in cash to back up our ship card. At the end of the cruise they gave back any unspent money. Contact your cruise line for your options.

[@angelastevenson15]

@@jacquelyns9709 ok thankyou I'll find out for sure before I actually book something...

[@carolynmurtaza1180]

Take a brolly with you....Rain or shade from the sun. If on medication make sure you take enough for the trip plus extra couple of days in case of delays plus copy of prescription.

[@dianebaker5221]

How do you fit all the recommended items to take on a cruise in your luggage if you're flying to get on a cruise to Alaska?

[@pamrobinson4350]

I get the advantage of using a mobile phone while cruising but what about internet access? Some lines charge exorbitant amounts for wifi & roaming charges can also be high.

[@dianeneglia]

So we were on a cruise that had three legs. Brooklyn to UK; UK round trip which included stops in Germany; and then UK to Brooklyn. We almost always take our passports ashore but we were told this is a bad idea when it's not needed. Well in the daily program it said we did not need to take our passports into Germany so we decided for the first time ever to lock it in our safe. WRONG! What the daily program forgot to say was that you didn't need your passport in Germany if ONLY you were from the UK or the EU. But we were from the US. So there we were in Germany trying to get back on the ship with no passport. It all worked out but it was very frustrating and upsetting.

[@coz7891]

How long was that cruise? So sorry for your troubles.

[@sallyshort7255]

I take my own pillow because I need my extra firm one. The provided pillows always end up stacked in a corner or closet. I didn’t know they had other pillow types on ship, but it’s easier just to take my own and know it’s right.

[@tipsfortravellers]

My partner tries to take their pillow too !

[@chriswilliams6568]

It must take up half of your suitcase space. The cruise lines and hotels do have other pillow types.

[@sallyshort7255]

@@chriswilliams6568 It’s a travel size pillow which helps a lot compared to the full size pillow on my bed, but yeah, it still takes a lot of suitcase space. However, I’ve done so many trips with it that I’ve gotten used to losing the space. I’ve learned pretty well what I can squeeze around it in my plane carryon luggage, and I still manage to overpack plenty of odd ends in my checked luggage along with the clothes that didn’t go in my carryon due to pillow space.

[@yolandadickmann428]

I’m also fussy about my pillow. A memory pillow, in a space saver bag, with the valve on top. It sucks down to nothing. Before I leave the ship i ask the cabin steward to use the vacuum cleaner attachment, and it soon has the air removed again.

[@blacksorrento4719]

Yes I’m definitely “have pillow will travel” On a European trip so many people had neck problems, and strained looks on their faces. It is bad enough coping with a different bed, let alone not having your trusty pillow, which goes where I go. I pack accordingly 😊