Thanks to U by Kotex® Pads for sponsoring today’s discussion.
The days until my next cruise are passing by so friggin fast! Whenever I travel I make a packing checklist but packing for a cruise is a little different. While you do get some time off the ship, most of your time is spent on board. You don’t want to forget anything, yet you don’t want to over pack because the staterooms aren’t huge. Here are the cruise essentials I came up with for my upcoming 3 day cruise other than the obvious toothbrush, deodorant, etc.
- U by Kotex pads just in case Aunt Flow decides to join the vacation! I prefer U by Kotex CleanWear Pads with 3D Capture Core that locks away moisture to help stop leaks. The packaging is fun and can fit inside a little carry pouch, nice and discreet.
- Prescriptions and over the counter medicines. I typically bring pain reliever and allergy pills with me everywhere! Cruise ships have some things but it’s a good idea to have a kit ready in your stateroom.
- First aid items such as band-aids. Even a thermometer, I fell ill with strep throat and big time fever on my last cruise!
- A few lip colors are good so you can mix different shades. Plus some blush, mascara, concealer & makeup brushes.
- An eyeshadow palette can be used for shadow, liner, brows and even blush if needed. Variety and multi-purpose baby!
- I like getting shampoo, conditioner, soap and lotion from Lush. The solid bars can be cut to fit in nifty containers.
- I put everything in my Hold Me Bag because it all fits perfectly and then neatly tucks into any travel bag.
- Comfy clothes. You can look awesome but it’s a cruise not fashion week! Bring a few pair of shorts, tanks and tees you feel comfortable in.
- Dresses. Some (maybe all) cruise ships have dress code at dining. Think semi-formal, a sundress or a blouse with slacks. Think of it like this: a wedding gown is too much, jean shorts and a tee shirt are not enough.
- Flips flops and/or water shoes for the pool area, beaches and walking around the decks.
- A sweater since it can be very windy and chilly on the decks at night!
- Bathing suits! People forget swimwear even though it seems big on the cruise essentials list. I bring at least 2 swim suits with me.
Additional tips:
- There are still some cruises you can take with just a birth certificate but be safe, get a passport.
- Use a prepaid debit card for shopping. It’s the easiest way to make sure you don’t splurge and go over your budget.
- Bring a portable music player. They’re great to have in your stateroom. On my last cruise late at night we’d all hang out in our room playing games. Music would’ve been nice! I’m taking my portable Bluetooth speaker this time!
By the way, you can get free samples from U by Kotex! Visit the U by Kotex landing page and pick the samples that best fit your needs so you can save the undies during your next trip!
I am all about style and comfort. Thanks for the tips, I definitely will be using them on my next getaway
I LOVE Kotex, they are very comfortable!
I would have to bring dramamine. I have never cruised because I get sea sick.
Author
I bought some with me on my 1st cruise just in case but ended up not needing them. My mom definitely would though, she has vertigo!
I wouldn’t know the first thing about what to take on a cruise. Now, my Kotex would be a definite necessary product.
These are great tips! Makes me want to go on a cruise right now!
Sounds like you are ready to go!
I have motion sickness so tabs or a wristband would go into my bag too!
Author
There are motion sickness wristbands? I might have to check that out for my mom.
You have some great items ready to go. I love the bright colors. I have a bit of a problem on any type of ship so not sure if I could do a cruise. Kotex is a great product and needs to be packed for sure.
I would love to go on a short cruise. The bathing suits you packed are very cute.
It would be nice to go take a break from everything and go on a cruise!
I am such a landlubber..I love the ocean, but I like to hang out on the sand next to it. I love how organized you are.
What a great list! I love your description of what to wear at dinner, I LOL’d. I’m bookmarking this list and I’m getting some of those Kotex!
Author
Lol, I had to include that tip! I’ve gone to things over dressed & under dressed before…so awkward.
Great list! I’m going on a cruise in a couple of weeks and I didn’t even think about bringing a sweater, so thanks for the reminder! A cruise is always associated with sun and fun, and you tend to forget how cold it is at night in the middle of the ocean!
Author
Definitely, I live in sunny FL so I actually have to go buy a sweater just for the cruise. Lol
I’m all for packing light. And seriously, prepaid debit cards should be a must have for all of us. I’m known to go “overboard” on vacation 🙂
Author
Exactly! It’s so easy to go crazy with spending on vacation.
I don’t if I will ever be able to go on a cruise, but it was fun to read these tips anyway!
I’m so glad I saw this post. I have wondered what I would take if I have the opportunity to go on a cruise, this is very helpful!!!
Comfy clothes are a must have
These are great cruise tips. Thanks for posting.