Review Cruise Literature
Check with the cruise line's office and request a packing list. How many formal evenings are included? Is a tuxedo required or will a suit or sport coat and slacks suffice? Determine how many "cocktail dresses" or dressy pantsuits women should bring. Avoid clothes that are too fussy or require special care. Review brochures about the cruise to determine what types of activities are available. For days on board think chic, casual resort wear. Get COMFORTABLE shoes. Your feet will thank you. Rubber soled shoes are best on ships' decks. Have the finest in women’s contemporary clothing shipped to you free when you purchase $100 or more at maxstudio.com
Color Scheme
Lay out clothing well in advance of departure. Choose a color scheme and build from there. Accessorize dresses by adding a variety of scarves, or an over blouse. Skirts and slacks look different with various tops. Take clothes you already have in your closet, especially if you feel good wearing them. Pick up wardrobe additions only if they can be used with two or three outfits.
Shore Excursions
Shore excursions call for layering clothes in case the weather changes. In the tropics, sudden rainstorms often occur, and along the Alaskan coast, even summer visitors should take a warm raincoat or windbreaker "just in case."
Pack a pair of already broken-in walking shoes for unpaved roads or street markets; blistered feet can certainly ruin a wonderful day's outing.
Dress conservatively while on shore. Tourists who stand out as "rich Americans" are often targeted by pickpockets, even in safe ports. Don't carry your money in hip pocket wallets or easily grabbed purses. Take only as much money as you'll need for the day, and tuck a $20 bill in your shoe for emergencies. Be aware, be prepared, then enjoy yourself and absorb new experiences.
Checklist of Necessities
Make a checklist so you won't forget necessities. Into your suitcase go your evening wear as well as shoes, shorts, casual and dressy slacks or skirts, short sleeved shirts or blouses for daytime, exercise wear and a bathing suit. Pack socks and stockings, pajamas and slippers, underwear, ties and a sport coat for men. A sweater is important as well as scarves, belt and accessories.
Don't attempt to cram cruise attire into one small carry-on. This is the trip where you can indulge yourself with one larger, easily wheeled suitcase as well as a carry-on. Need Luggage or a new Carryon? Up to 60% Off on Luggage, Handbags, Backpacks & More. Free Shipping at eBags.com
Carry-On Items
On the day of departure, make certain you carry on your person your tickets, passport (if needed), photo ID, medications, jewelry, sunglasses, raincoat or umbrella, travelers checks, credit cards, travel insurance papers, and address book. Don't forget your camera; you'll record memories on board that will last a lifetime.
Now you're ready to leave. If you forget something, your cabin steward can probably find it for you or you can pick it up at the ship's store or in the first port of call. Relax and dream about being pampered as your ship carries you from port to port, from adventure to adventure. Bon Voyage! Have a fantastic time!
Phyllis Dodson has been a travel writer and editor for 14 years. She has visited most parts of the world, worked in tour development for Trans Pacific Special Interest Tours, and served as managing editor for a series of travel guides for American Airlines. Phyllis lives in Santa Barbara, California.