Take your ticket, passport, identification, medical history and insurance card, if applicable, and prescriptions for essential medications.
Pack your medications and include any vitamins or supplements that you take on a regular basis. If you wear glasses, take along a spare pair.
Pack skin care products, such as sunscreen, sunblock, and lip balm. Although cruise climates vary, skin can be damaged by the reflection of sunlight from the ocean, and lips can get chapped by exposure to salt water and wind, so be prepared
Take extra toiletries. Cruise lines generally provide toilet paper, soap, shampoo, and towels, but you may prefer your own supply.
Don't forget your camera. Take along plenty of film, or extra memory cards if you are using a digital camera. Consider a waterproof camera bag to hold your camera and accessories. Pack plenty of batteries.
Prepare yourself for downtime by packing books, magazines, a notepad and pens, and a MP3 player. Cruises offer a variety of activities, but sometimes you may need to slow down and relax. Notepads are useful for recording the names, telephone numbers, addresses, or e-mail addresses of new friends.
Don't lose touch with the rest of the world. Pack a cell phone, a laptop computer and an international calling card. If you cannot use them on board, you should be able to use them when you disembark at the ports. Pack a hard copy of important contact numbers.
Review the dress code for the cruise you are taking. Recommended attire is normally outlined in the information packet that comes with your booking.
Choose conservative shorts, T-shirts, polo shirts, or sundresses for informal nights and daytime. Active wear can be worn in the fitness center, and swimsuits at the pool. Sneakers or sandals are appropriate for casual dressing.
Pack slacks, a silk polo or button-up shirt for men to wear on those occasions when the dress code is resort chic. Women can take an elegant dress or suit. Be sure to pack suitable shoes.
Pack a cocktail dress or evening gown to wear on formal nights. Men will need a tuxedo or dress slacks, a dinner or suit jacket, and tie. Formal wear varies by cruise line; some recommend tuxedos and ball gowns, while others consider a suit or a cocktail dress to be formal enough.
Consider the culture of the ports you will visit. Some cultures have distinct ideas about what is acceptable attire. Casual or active wear is appropriate for most outdoor adventure tours, but if you plan on exploring a port on your own, be sure to dress accordingly.
Don't forget to pack a hat and a pair of sunglasses, especially if you're cruising in a sunny climate and you plan on spending time on deck or in port.
