Pack casual clothing for daytime activities on the ship such as swimming, dancing and exercise classes, jogging, bridge and backgammon games, gym workouts and lectures. Take your swimsuit, a swimming cap to protect your hair from chlorinated water and your favorite terrycloth or other cover-up. Shorts, T-shirts, exercise clothing, sleeveless blouses, skirts, jeans, flip-flops, sandals and sundresses are appropriate attire. Throw a sweater or lightweight jacket into your suitcase for cool evenings.
Bring walking shoes for shore excursions and long shopping trips. Rubber-heeled shoes provide extra traction on the ship. Women need heels and a formal evening or cocktail dress; men should pack business shoes, and a suit and tie for some dining and the Captain's Gala. Tuxedos are not necessary; however, some ships do have tuxedo rental services.
Bring sunglasses, books, puzzle books or magazines. Pack prescription medicines and over-the-counter medications such as aspirin, ibuprofen and something for seasickness in your carry-on bag. Take hand sanitizer; don't forget sunscreen. Take your camera with extra film, memory cards and batteries. If the ship doesn't have hair dryers, pack one. Cruise ships provide amenities such as sample sizes of shampoo, conditioner and hand or body lotion, along with small packages of Tylenol, razors and hard candy. If you have favorite brands of toiletries, however, pack them.
Carry your golf clubs, scuba or snorkeling gear, tennis racket and balls, and fishing equipment if you plan to participate in any of these activities during your vacation and don't want to pay rental fees.
U. S. citizens need to bring proof of citizenship, such as a government photo identification card or driver's license, or an original or copy of your birth certificate. Hand carry your passport, medical insurance card, passage contract and cruise documents, as well as any travel insurance or protection plan membership documents.
