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Cruise Travel Essentials

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If you've never been on a cruise before, here are some must haves, or necessary items for cruising! I've listed everything from formalwear for formal dinner nights to anti-nausea medications for seasickness.
 
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If you get any sort of motion sickness, or if you just get seasick, you need to get these. You will see about half of the people on a cruise wearing them.
Scopolamine Transdermal Patch: MedlinePlus Drug Information
 
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If you don't want to wear the patches behind your ears, or if you just swear by Dramamine, this a good alternate. I don't get seasick or motion sickness, but my mom & sister do. They use Dramamine all of the time.
Dramamine® Motion Sickness Medicine | Nausea Relief & Prevention
 
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All cruise ships have a formal night for dinner. Now, you don't have to attend, but if you choose to, you need to wear something nice. It doesn't have to be a floor length gown, but a nice dress (or pant suit) is expected. Same for the guys. Slacks a...
Formal Dresses & Evening Gowns - Azazie Atelier Collection
 
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A strong sunscreen is a MUST, especially if you are cruising in the dead heat of Summer on a Caribbean cruise. If you think the sun is hot in the US, no you don't lol
Blue Lizard Sensitive Mineral Sunscreen Stick - SPF 50
 
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This isn't an absolute necessity, but I love having a passport holder. It keeps it protected from the elements and from getting bent during traveling. You don't always need a passport while cruising, but make sure you check into your itinerary.
passport | Shop - Kate Spade
 
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If you are of drinking age, most cruise ships allow you to bring ONE bottle of wine or champagne on board with you. Royal Caribbean requires that the bottle is 750 ml or less.
Moscato - Fine Wine & Good Spirits
 
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Royal Caribbean also lets you bring 12 cans or bottles (17 oz or less) onto the ship. This cuts down on some of your cost of what your spending on the ship. They all have drink packages (soda & alcohol) that you have to pay for.
Fresca® - Sparkling Flavored Soda | Coca-Cola US
 
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Packing cubes are always great, but did you know you can buy a lot of things "duty free" on the islands and ship? If you buy alcohol off the ship, they will store it for you. I like to make sure I have waterproof bags in my suitcase, just in case som...
Best Travel Packing Organizers
 
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Beach hats are another necessity for your family; adults and kids alike. Like I said, the sun can be brutal, so you'll want to protect your head.
UPF 50+ Sun Hats for Women - Coolibar
 
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I know this seems like such a weird and random thing, but you never know when you'll get stung by a jellyfish. It happened to me on a cruise. Vinegar helps with the sting. They usually will have vinegar stations set up at ports with a high likelihood...
Apple Cider Vinegar Acne Face Wipes
 
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Aloe is helpful to ease the pain of sunburn if you get a bad one. I always carry this on vacation.
Seven Minerals Organic Aloe Vera Gel 100% Pure
 
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You definitely need to bring a comfortable pair of sneakers. A lot of ports will require walking, some have walking tours, so make sure you have sneakers. Cruise ships also have gyms or board, or tracks on their top deck, if you'd like to work out on...
On Cloud Women's Shoes | On United States - On Running
 
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Ladies, it's a good idea to get a fake ring for vacation. Cruise ships have safes on board in your room, so you can store your real jewelry or important personal items in there. I would definitely get one of these if you are getting off of the ship f...
Faux Diamond Rings
 
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I know this seems obvious, but bathing suits and make sure you bring several. It's always good to have options and backups. You'll be spending a lot of time at either the pools or the beach or both.
Women's Bikinis & Swimwear | Abercrombie & Fitch
 
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Another maybe obvious one, but waterproof mascara. Between all of the water activities and extreme heat, you'll want a good waterproof mascara.
10 Best Waterproof Mascaras of 2024 - Good Housekeeping
 
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If you have littles, make sure you bring either a life vest or puddle jumper for them.
Puddle Jumper - Bestway
 
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Portable fans are a life saver in extreme heat. If you'd can find one with a built in mister, even better!
Travel Fan
 
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I'm a wavy hair girl, and the humidity always makes my hair go insane. I always swear by having a good anti-frizz serum.
Anti-Frizz Serums | Sephora