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Embarking on a family cruise is an incredibly exciting venture, but it can be daunting when it comes to packing. Here, we provide some useful advice to ensure your family voyage is smooth sailing.
Plan Ahead
Don’t leave packing until the last minute, check out the family cruise packing list and get started. Make a list of what each family member needs and start packing a few days before your departure. This will help you avoid forgetting essential items.
Pack Light, But Smart
Cruise cabins have limited space, so it’s crucial to pack light. However, remember to include a variety of clothes for different weather conditions and occasions. You may need swimwear for the pool, warmer clothes for cooler evenings, and more formal attire for special dinners. Water shoes & snorkel gear might be needed depending upon your excursion plans. Include a hanging toiletry bag and over the door shoe organizer to help you organize all of your essentials from sunscreen, bug spray to sunglasses and toy frogs. Give everyone in the family a space to keep their things easy to find. A night light helps as well since cabins can be very dark.
Don’t Forget the Essentials
Ensure you pack your passports, booking confirmation, travel insurance documents, and any necessary medication. Include a medical kit with all of your basics including motion sickness medication, pain reliever, aloe for sunburn, antihistamines, bandages and antacids.
Pack for Entertainment
Cruise ships have plenty of entertainment, but it’s always a good idea to pack some books, games, or portable electronic devices, along with chargers, for those quieter moments. A power strip is helpful to keep all of your electronics charged and ready. For communication on board the ship a set of walkie talkies are a great help and a lot of fun for the kids.
Consider a Carry-On Bag
Having a smaller bag with essentials such as swimwear and a change of clothes is a good idea on embarkation day. Your main luggage may not arrive at your cabin until later in the evening, and you might want to start enjoying the facilities right away. A wet bag is a great option to bring in your daypack to protect your valuables and keep them dry when you are out and about on excursions.
Remember, It’s Not All About the Cruise
When packing, consider your shore excursions. Depending on your destinations, you may need different types of clothing, walking shoes, or even some local currency.
By planning properly and packing smart, your family cruise can be a hassle-free and enjoyable experience.
Here’s a suggested family packing list for a cruise:
- Clothing:
- Swimwear
- Cover-ups or sarongs
- Shorts
- T-shirts or tank tops
- Sun hats
- Lightweight jackets or sweaters
- Casual dresses or skirts
- Formal wear for special events or dinners
- Footwear:
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Sandals or flip flops
- Dress shoes or heels for formal events
- Toiletries:
- Sunscreen
- Aloe vera gel for sunburns
- Insect repellent
- Personal hygiene items (toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, etc.)
- Medications and first aid supplies
- Electronics:
- Camera and memory cards
- Phone chargers
- Portable charger
- Travel adapters for international outlets
- Miscellaneous:
- Beach towels
- Snorkeling gear (if applicable)
- Books or e-readers
- Travel-sized games and toys for kids
It’s important to note that every cruise line may have specific dress codes, so it’s a good idea to research the specific requirements for your chosen cruise. Additionally, packing light and strategically is always a good idea, as cruise cabins can be small and storage space can be limited.
