PASSPORT! and other important travel documents, such as your vaccination card and Covid test.  I keep mine in a clear vinyl sleeve that I purchased on Amazon.  Keep these items in your carryon…you will need them to check in at the pier.  I find a travel wallet to be very useful. And don’t forget a mask to wear in the cruise terminal and while onshore. Some ports are still requiring them. My favorite is from Tally-Ho Design https://www.facebook.com/TallyHoDesign/. You can find them on Facebook. Super comfortable, deliver quickly and can custom design a special mask just for you. Also a favorite of Capt Kate…they made her sparkly captain’s mask.

Small backpack or tote for shore excursions or for heading to the pool. Tally-Ho Design makes the one I love to use while onboard! They will also be happy to make you a custom bag if you have a design you prefer!

Packing cubes – keep your clothing organized and protected while traveling.  Also makes unpacking in your cabin super easy and fast.

Collapsible storage bins. Keeping the cabin organized is always a challenge. I have found these to be a great help. They fit perfectly in the overheard storage compartment and will help keep your clothes neatly arranged. Amazon has lots of good options. I like ones with a design. When folded down, they don’t take up much room in a suitcase either!

Highliter – mark the activities on the daily planner you want to do onboard. However, with the new ship’s apps that are being developed, you may find that easier to use instead of the paper ones. It is also helpful to highlight important information on other papers that are left on your bed each evening.

Ziplock bags – good for dirty laundry, wet suits, keeping phones sand and water free

Hat – protect your head and face from the sun

Sunscreen – cheaper than buying on the ship!

Sunglasses – glare off the water can be very strong

Chargers for phones, computers, notepads, etc.

Charging device with extra plugs (not a power strip, most ships do not allow these any longer)

Towel clips – keep your towel on the chair, either on the ship or at the beach

Also useful is an anti-theft bag for beach chairs, such as AquaVault. I bought mine on Amazon.

Over the door hanger – helps to organize smaller items in the cabin

Magnetic hooks or clips – hang jackets, hats, keep important papers organized.

Pain killers (ibuprofen, aspirin, etc.) and a few bandaids…easier than going to the ship’s doctor and less likely to have a false positive Covid test too!

Bottle bags for packing liquor – protect your belongings when traveling home

And of course…..CLOTHES! Bathing suits are a must, especially if you are planning a beach day. No need to bring beach towels….the ship will provide them for you. Comfortable clothes to wear around the ship during the day. For evenings, dressy outfits for “formal” nights….evening gowns and tuxedos are not mandatory, but some people will still wear them. Wear what makes you happy, as long as you follow the ships requirements. Most do not allow shorts or gym clothes in the dining room for dinner. The ships can be chilly in the evenings, so a light sweater is a good idea.

I hope this helps make packing a little easier. Please let me know if you have any other suggestions!