For first-time cruiser getting packed can be a daunting task. We’ve already shared some tips on what to pack from veteran cruisers. You might still end up grumpily wishing you hadn’t forgotten an item that would make your day-to-day of being on a relaxing journey at sea easier, and so much more enjoyable. Remember you can’t get everything you can on land while you’re at sea, so it’s best to be prepared.
5 Extras to Pack for your Cruise
#5 A Sweater
It doesn’t have to be a sweater, but something to keep you warm if it gets a bit chilly. The Caribbean Sea is warmer all year round than the more northern climes, but that doesn’t mean it’s always perfect weather. Even at the height of summer, a sudden storm and its rain and wind can make temperatures drop. You can ride it out in comfort, in a loud sweater knitted by a favorite aunt, or a stylish coat. Whatever suits your style.
#4 A Hat
On the opposite end of the spectrum, sometimes there isn’t a cloud in the sky, and on hot days in the middle of August that can be a problem. The sun beating down can make your excursions miserable, and maybe even cut them short. You would be surprised how much of a difference 6 inches of portable shade can make on the ship, or when ashore. At the very least, it will help you avoid the dreaded peeling nose look.
#3 Entertainment
You’re probably pretty smart when you plan your vacations. After all, you’re reading this, looking at options, and planning ahead. Others in your group might not be so smart, fail to plan ahead and be stuck inside by cool weather, or a sunburn. For those whose wardrobes are entirely Bermuda shorts, or the unusually red you should probably bring some sort of entertainment. Books, small travel games, or even a pack of cards can keep the few times you’re stuck inside seem like it was no time at all.
#2 Technology
In the same vein as entertainment is technology. Sometimes you’re going to want some privacy, and eBooks, movies, and games on the phone, tablet, or laptop are just the things for those times. However, there is no internet at sea like there is at home. At least not on most ships. Royal Caribbean is working on changing that. For the time being most cruisers are going to have to make sure they have everything downloaded and set up to work offline before they embark. Stay at one of the Go Port hotels with Wi-Fi before your cruise, download what you need, and leave your smartphone set to airplane mode while your embarked.
#1 A Power Strip
A problem with most cruise ship staterooms is that they only have a few power outlets. It can be an ongoing annoyance for a lot of cruisers to have to shuffle their devices on and off the charger. Instead, bring a power strip and plug devices into your heart’s content. This is something that probably won’t be able to bring upon the plane, so you’ll need to pick up one before embarking. Go Port has several hotels that offer shuttles to Walmart, Walgreens, or other shopping locations that sell these, and other items you’ll want to your cruise. Old power strips can be considered a fire hazard, so buy a new one and keep it in the packaging until you’re aboard. Check your individual cruise line’s guidelines before purchasing.
Recommend 
