Cruise Trip Packing: Medications, Tip Money and Chargers

In part one of this two-part blog series, we went over some basics on how to pack for an upcoming cruise trip. While certain parts of this process tend to be relatively simple, there are some areas where first-time cruisers are legitimately unsure what or how much they need to pack for their trip.

At Cruise Lady: Latter-day Adventures, we’re here to help. Our staff will assist with any and all packing or preparation questions for our cruises, ranging from Australia and New Zealand to Asia, the Mediterranean, Alaska and numerous other locations around the world. Today’s part two of our series will dig into several other important packing themes to keep in mind as you’re finalizing your baggage and related areas for an upcoming cruise.

Seasickness Remedies

For those who have been on a cruise or any other kind of large watercraft in the past, you’ll probably already know if you struggle with seasickness. If you’re among those who have these issues, you’re not alone – but you should be prepared. Pack enough motion sickness medication to last you the entire trip, plus extra just to be sure.

If you’re a first-time cruiser who hasn’t been on large watercraft in the past and aren’t sure if you will get seasick, we recommend caution. For starters, if you ever get carsick or have any other kind of motion sickness, it’s a safe assumption similar concerns will arise on the cruise – and you should plan accordingly. If you’re not sure here, we recommend packing at least a starter pack of motion sickness meds just in case it turns out you suffer from these issues.

In addition, be sure to pack and label any other important medications you need for the trip.

Tipping Money

For shore excursions as part of your cruise, it’s vital to ensure you bring tipping money. Depending on the location where you’re cruising to, it will potentially be appropriate to tip a wide range of different people: Tour guides, restaurant servers, bus drivers and more. In addition, we recommend doing some research in advance of the trip on tipping etiquette in the locations where you’ll be making excursions, as these tend to differ widely from American customs.

Electronics and Chargers

Finally, one of the most common item types people tend to forget on cruises: Chargers for electronics. From your cell phone to tablets, GoPro cameras and any other items you’re bringing, there’s nothing worse than getting out to sea before realizing you left the charger at home. Do a checklist for each of these items to be sure you’re all set. Most cruise staterooms will have both US and European electrical outlets.

In addition, for those who bring cell phones, we recommend turning them to airplane mode to avoid any international roaming charges.

For more on what to pack for an upcoming cruise, or to learn about any of our cruise or land tour vacations, speak to the staff at Cruise Lady: Latter-day Adventures today.