While cruise ships offer medical assistance, it's helpful to remember the little things. Anti-nausea medication is a must, especially for first time cruise goers who don't know how they will react to the ship's movement. Pain relief, like aspirin, is helpful, especially given all the alcoholic beverages on board. Because cruises are packed with foods of all kinds, remember the antacids. To round out a first aid kit, bring bandages, antiseptics and allergy medications. Antibacterial hand gels can help passengers keep from picking up bugs from other passengers or on land excursions.
Unless passengers book the expensive, multi-room suites, a cruise means spending time with the whole family sharing close quarters. Between snoring and different sleep habits, sharing a room can be a nightmare. Nose strips help cut down on snoring, though earplugs can also help, especially if the suitemate prefers sleeping with the television or radio on. This is also helpful if the suite is near a noisier part of the ship. Sleep masks can also help cut down on light if a suitemate likes to read before bed.
Fine dining is a time-honored cruise activity. On many cruises, the cuisine ranges in ethnic flavor and style, but between the late-night snacks and buffets, passengers can pack on the pounds during a ship. While indulging is a part of vacation frivolity, look for healthy meals from time to time. Mixing up the decadent with the healthy can help with post-cruise weight loss and even gastrointestinal pains from going overboard with food.
Cruises present a myriad of experiences, onboard and off. Appropriate clothing can range from evening wear to hiking boots. Consider planned ship activities; some restaurants have strict jacket and tie dress codes. Look at activities available for off-ship excursions. While flip flops might suit strolling around the ship, they may not work if excursions feature a lot of hiking. Make sure the camera and other electronics are packed, as well as plenty of batteries and chargers. And above all, have documentation, such as passports, tickets, itineraries and maps.
