Packing for cruise holidays can be overwhelming with so many destinations and events on offer, but one insider has revealed the six items to keep on your list
Cruise holidays can be a lot of fun but trying to navigate what to pack for a holiday stopping off at multiple destinations can be tricky – luckily, one insider has just made the process a little easier.
Bob McGowan, Chief Experience Officer at Ambassador Cruise Line, has revealed six items that he’d recommend packing, and the good news is that they won’t take up too much of that precious suitcase space.
He explained: “Packing can be one of the most stressful parts of heading on holiday. It can be tough knowing how many pairs of shoes you’ll really need or whether to bring a rain mac – and don’t even get me started on socks!”
He added that if you can, a no-fly cruise can take away even more of the stress. He said: “Rather than cramming your belongings into a backpack and holding your breath as you head through airport security, on a no-fly cruise holiday there are no baggage limits – the rule is if you can carry it, you can bring it.”
Still, whether your cruise is no-fly or not, there are six items that you’ll want to ensure are packed in your bag – check them out below.
1. Backpack – and an evening bag
According to Bob, “there is a common misconception that cruises are only about lounging around”. He explained that while you’ll want a backpack for your onshore excursions, it’s worth thinking about an evening bag too when you’re on the ship. He added: “Having a compact bag whilst at dinner, enjoying a show or popping to the bar can be handy – helping to avoid that moment of panic when you realise you’ve left your phone in the restaurant – whilst a rucksack is great for a big day of exploring once in port.”
2. Seasickness tablets or sea bands
You may not need either of these while you’re onboard – but it doesn’t hurt to have them in your bag, especially if it’s your first time on a cruise ship.
“These sorts of tablets are available from every pharmacy and tend to be reasonably priced, making them easy to get your hands on,” said Bob. “Having a few stowed away in your suitcase can provide peace of mind, even if you don’t end up using them. Alternatively, many cruise brands including Ambassador have seasickness tablets freely available to offer to travellers when on board.”
If you don’t want the tablets you can look into seabands, which use acupressure points on your wrists to help prevent seasickness.
3. Card holder
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If you’ve booked a package that includes your drinks, gratuities and service charges, then you won’t need to think too much about additional costs. However, if you have a cruise card, a card holder could be useful; think of the cruise card like a hotel key, but that’s also essential for getting on or off the ship. Bob suggested: “Bringing along a card holder will ensure you know exactly where it is and prevent it from floating around in your handbag or worse still, being left in one of the many ports of call.”
4. Evening wear
“Whilst the flamboyant and grandiose clothing once associated with cruising is less common now, it is definitely a good idea to bring along a smart outfit with gala dinners and speciality dining options often available on board,” said Bob. “On most cruises there will be at least one black tie evening and it’s always better to be slightly overdressed than underprepared. Plus, you’re on holiday – the perfect excuse to get suited and booted for the occasion!”
5. A single book
You may be tempted to pack heaps of books for the cruise to enjoy poolside or in your cabin, but Bob points out that there are plenty of cruise ships with their own libraries or book swap shelves, where you could find plenty of reading materials for your sailing – so if you’re tight on space, leave the extra books at home!
6. Comfortable walking shoes
A classic, but important, especially for onshore excursions. “Whether winding through the cobbled streets of Lisbon or strolling alongside the famous canals of Amsterdam, being able to lose yourself in a destination for the day requires a great pair of walking shoes,” said Bob. “What’s more, on the top deck of most ships there will be space for you to get your steps in. For example, on every one of Ambassador’s ships, you’ll find a dedicated walking and jogging track on the upper deck, allowing you to get your steps in while enjoying the stunning sea views.”
You can find out more on ambassadorcruiseline.com.