As you’re reading this I’m either en route to the cruise ship or on it and already enjoying myself. I’ll be slightly disconnected for the next few days, popping up and sharing a few snaps or Instagram posts when we get to Mexico; and I’m really looking forward to this relaxing vacation. I know that I shared a few items that you can’t forget when packing for your cruise last week, but I wanted to share a few other tips with you guys today.
Go in with the “tech free” mindset – Yes, most cruises have internet packages available for purchase, and Carnival even revamped their program to include high-speed WiFi but be prepared to disconnect. Use your phone to snap pictures of the gorgeous water or someone being goofy during a competition. Record a video of your friends butchering a classic at karaoke. But don’t spend that precious time checking your emails because they will definitely be there when you get back.
Bring a (waterproof) watch – Remember what I said before about being disconnected? Well since most of us rely on our phones to tell us the time it’s time to bust out that old wristwatch! The cruise environment is pretty laid back, but there are a ton of activities available and you want to make sure that you’re able to make it to that live show or scavenger hunt on time.
Pack standard first aid supplies – pain meds, motion sickness pills/wristbands, band, aids, sleeping pills, ear plugs all come in handy on cruises. You might have an eyebrow raised at the ear plugs suggestion, but you’ll thank me when you aren’t kept up at night by people running up and down the hallways.
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Go out and enjoy the onboard activities – It’s easy to lay out and lounge, reading and tanning the cruise away, but try and attend at least one onboard activity. There’s truly something for everyone, live music shows, karaoke, trivia, comedy shows, kids’ corners, movie nights, cooking classes, etc. Check out the schedule when you get to your room and circle or highlight the ones you’re interested in and use your watch to make sure you’re on time to them!
Pack light – Lay out everything you think you’ll need to bring and remove at least 3 things. Trust me, you’ll be living in your swimsuits and the lightest clothing possible. Bring a few maxi dresses, shorts, leggings, sandals and flip-flops, maybe a pair of jeans, a few nice tops for the bars in the evening (if that’s your thing), a nice outfit if you plan on attending the Captain’s dinner and undies. I’ll be packing up my weekender and I should have plenty of room if I decide to bring back souvenirs.
These are things I wish someone would’ve told me before my first cruise, but I’m happy that I know them now. I hope y’all take the knowledge from this post and my previous one and go ahead and book that cruise you’ve been wanting to book! Enjoy the seas and see some world!