Whether you are a new cruiser or a seasoned traveler on the seas, there are always tips and hints that can come in handy to make your journey easier and more pleasurable. Perhaps packing for a cruise is a challenge for you, particularly when you are filling luggage for a family. Here is a list of items I always bring along on our cruises that have helped us sail smoothly:
1. Lysol Spray- You can find a smaller, travel size version of this spray for about $4 a can. While the price is not great in comparison to a large can (especially when it is on sale) the portability of it is advantageous. I have found one small can to be exactly enough to disinfect our cruise room before we touch anything. While I do believe our helpful room stewards clean efficaciously after every cruisers debarks, I know sometimes some areas may be overlooked. I just feel better doing a quick spray of items like the remote control, doorknobs, sink handles, cabinet doors, drawer pulls, blow dryer, bathroom fixtures and outdoor furniture to prevent any possible spread of yucky cruise germs like Norovirus.
2. Antibacterial Wipes- Having the individually wrapped antibacterial wipes comes in handy after touching items around the ship that everyone touches often- like menus and buffet tongs. While Norwegian Cruise lines offers "Washy Washy" or Antibacterial Spray attendants, as well as sinks to wash up at the buffet, a few wipes in your pocket are great for instances when these cleanly measures are unavailable.
3. Pain Relievers- On our second cruise in 2012 my son and I came down with the flu on the last day of the cruise. After spiking a high fever I was thankful I brought along both Tylenol and Ibuprofen to alternate throughout the night. I was able to keep his fever down and keep him comfortable until we debarked the next morning. I did call the ship nurse that evening as well, and she reaffirmed the dosages over the phone to alternate for him, at no charge, and I felt reassured that I was prepared. The ship did have both pain relievers on board to purchase as well, but the price was four times as expensive as what you could get in your local drugstore. A large container of ibuprofen also comes in quite handy for my husband and I as well, with our forty-something aches and pains! Be sure to bring aspirin as well, particularly if you take it as part of your daily regimen.
4. Everyday Medications in a Daily Pill Box- By placing your everyday medications in a daily pill box you can insure that you remember to take them daily. It is very easy to get confused with the days and times when you are out at sea-relaxed and many times unplugged. Planning to take that days medications when you receive your daily cruise guide from your room steward is a good way to stay on track.
5. Printed Documents of All Cruise Details- Although you likely accessed your cruise information online and printed your boarding pass and basic information, be sure to print your amenity list, as well as booked items for your cruise. Sometimes what you see you have online (free dining package, on board credit, etc) does not show up on your shipboard account the day of the cruise. As many folks board on a weekend when all many cruiseline offices are closed (other that sales), having this information printed and at the ready can be extremely helpful when speaking to the cruise staff at guest services. I always bring my Personal Cruise Consultant's information along- including her personal extension in case any issues arise.
Hopefully these five tips will help you pack and prepare for your next voyage on the seas! Visit the Amazon estore below to purchase the items I listed above!
http://astore.amazon.com/cruis0cf-20
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