If you think you’re all packed for your cruise and ready to go, you probably want to check this list for the top things you absolutely do not want to forget! In some cases, we’ve always been prepared, and in others… well, let’s just say you can learn from our mistakes!

DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may earn a commission if you make a purchase through these links with no change in price for you.

1. Important Paperwork

All important paperwork should be packed in your carry-on instead of your luggage. For us, that means our boarding passes (including paper copies of any airline boarding passes and info if applicable to the trip) and copies of all of our receipts from booking the cruise, any excursions, extras, etc. We keep a handy dandy folder with us, or you could use a travel wallet, like this snap-closure version or this zip-up version.

You may also want to consider keeping a photocopy of your ID or passport with you at all times.

2. Medications

Necessary medications should be kept with you at all times. Repeat, do not put your necessary medications in your luggage to be handed off before boarding. Most of the time, it’s a guessing game when your luggage will arrive at your room, and remember that lost luggage DOES happen. You definitely don’t want your critical medication lost in limbo somewhere. Be prepared, and keep it in your carry-on or purse. Better safe than sick!

Now, if you’re like us, we do try to be prepared for absolutely everything. We carry over-the-counter medications for things like headaches, sinus issues, upset stomachs, etc., but they are not crucial to our well-being. Stay organized by keeping your medication in a small tote or bag, like this travel medical organizer.

3. ID

Identification is crucial when traveling. Find out exactly what type of ID you’ll need for your cruise. Do you need a passport card? Or a passport book? Can you get by with just a government-issued ID and a birth certificate? Rules do change, so be sure you are up-to-date with the latest regulations. Without proper ID, you won’t be traveling at all.

As mentioned with important paperwork, you may want to consider keeping a photocopy of your ID and/or passport with you at all times. Even if your passport isn’t required to disembark or get back on board at port, having a copy can help if things go wrong.

4. Hat and Hair Ties

I made this mistake once, and I won’t ever make it again. As you wander the outside decks of the cruise ship, did you know that the wind whoops around like crazy? Oh, yes, it do. For anyone with longer hair, you’ll want to secure it under a hat (like this unisex hat by Columbia or this travel-friendly roll up sun hat) or a ponytail holder. If you don’t, you’ll probably be dealing with some pretty monstrous tangles.

Now, of course you can buy a hat onboard or at port, but if you step into that wind without being prepared, it’s probably already too late. I just can’t do knots, yall. I have such thin, fine hair to begin with.

I’ve found this tip useful at port too, especially if you’re going on an excursion in a speed boat or open vehicle. If you DO end up with tangles, conditioner is your best friend. Slather that stuff on and slowly work out the knots.

Speaking of wind, you will probably also want a lip balm and moisturizer to keep your lips and skin hydrated.

5. Chargers/Adapter

Double check that you’ve packed your charger for every electronic device that you’re taking with you. This can include your phone, tablet, camera, laptop, wearable devices, handheld gaming devices, medical devices, etc. It’s always a great idea to have a worldwide adapter in your luggage as well so you’re prepared to charge your devices in any country.

A portable charger is a great item to have during port days when you’re wandering for hours, taking tons of photos with your phone and posting them to Instagram.

See Related: Mogix Lightweight Portable Charger Review

6. Blister Protection

I don’t care how well I think I’ve “broken in” a pair of shoes, I get blisters on top of blisters if I’m not careful. Band-Aids and Foot Glide are close friends of mine, and I always carry them with me.

Band-Aids can be used in problem areas BEFORE a blister has appeared OR after the pain has started to prevent further damage. Foot Glide is applied much like a deodorant to blister-prone areas and will prevent friction from creating a blister monster. It does need to be reapplied every so often, and I’ve found that with some shoes, it doesn’t seem to help at all. Still, you’ll want to do all you can to take care of your feet while traveling. Sore feet can make you really miserable really quick.

7. Sunscreen

Sunscreen is an absolute must. You can buy it onboard your ship or at port, but there’s a good chance you’ll pay a lot more for it (BUT PAY THE MONEY IF YOU FORGET YOUR SUNSCREEN, YALL!).

Being out on the water, you’ll want to wander the decks, stare out at the horizon, or just sit and listen to the sounds of the ocean. None of these things involve sunbathing, but hear me when I say YOU WILL BURN. The sunlight is multiplied by the reflection of the water. You’re going to get a lot of sun very quickly. Same goes for being out at port.

Many cruises head to the Caribbean where you’re much closer to the equator. My advice is to wear sunscreen every day you’re outside no matter where you are.

Remember to pick up a brand that is reef-safe! We need to do everything we can to protect the environment while we’re adventuring. Some of our favorite brands are this “Dry Balance” sunscreen that we first found in Hawaii and this brand that is safe for both fresh and seawater environments.

8. Jacket

Even if you’re headed somewhere tropical, a jacket or other form of clothing to keep you warm is highly advised. I’ve been cold in Hawaii and Puerto Vallarta. Plus, you never know what the temperature inside the public areas of your cruise ship will be. Sometimes, the theater or dining room will be freezing!

I’d recommend a versatile jacket for your outdoor adventures and an oversized cardigan sweater for nights on the deck or catching dinner or a show onboard. This jacket is a great option for guys, one that I think could be warn on any occasion when you need an extra layer.

9. Motion Sickness Relief

Okay, okay, some of you just DON’T get motion sick at all. I hear you. But, for those of us that will turn green on ANYTHING that moves, we need our motion sickness preventatives and remedies.

If you are prone to it like I am, you probably already know which pills, patches, armbands, etc. work for you and which ones don’t. Be sure to pack your items of choice because you may not find your go-to over-the-counter remedy onboard or at port. You definitely want to have what you KNOW works for you. One of my favorite go-to items is the Reliefband, which stops nausea with electrical pulses to the wrist. It’s a drug-free alternative, and it works wonders for me.

See Related: Reliefband Review- A Wearable Band that Prevents Motion Sickness and Nausea

Is your motion sickness medication something you get by prescription? Don’t forget to inform your doctor that you’re traveling, and get whatever you need from the pharmacy in time for your trip. “But I thought I had fifteen pills left!” doesn’t matter when you leave tomorrow on a seven-day cruise with two prescription pills.

10. Waterproof Camera or Case

During many cruises, you’ll be experiencing water activities. Whether you’re enjoying the pool onboard, riding a cool water coaster like Disney Cruise Line’s Aquaduck, tubing a river in Jamaica, snorkeling in the ocean, or having a blast at the water park at Atlantis in the Bahamas, you’ll probably want to take pictures. Be sure to protect your camera or phone, either by having a waterproof camera or adding a waterproof case to your existing camera or phone.

I’ve told this story many times, but I actually dropped TWO cameras in the ocean AT THE SAME TIME when we were in Tulum, Mexico. Ruined them. Don’t be like me.

See Related: A Day at the Stunningly Beautiful Mayan Ruins of Tulum

11. Cash for Tips

While your onboard tipping is usually done when you book (or as you purchase your drinks) and is on your onboard account, there are several instances that you should have a few dollars for tips. For example, when you first arrive at port and hand your luggage off to the handlers, it’s customary to tip a dollar or two per bag. It’s also a nice gesture towards your excursion guides, drivers, and anyone else who helps you out during your vacation.

12. Rain Gear

We’ve been caught in the rain in Hawaii, in Cozumel, Mexico, and while cruising through the ocean. You just never know where a rainstorm will pop up. A lot of times, cruise ships will steer around rain, but it’s not always possible. Be prepared with a rain jacket or poncho (remember to reuse them!) to cover yourself and any electronic gear. Head on over to Shinesty.com, and pick yourself up a super-useful Fancho (fanny pack + poncho), and use our exclusive coupon code: JUSTCHASINGRABBITS10

See Related: Review of the Fancho (Fanny Pack + Poncho) by Shinesty

DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may earn a commission if you make a purchase through these links with no change in price for you.

Are you planning a cruise? Did you find this list helpful? Are there any other items that we should add to this “Don’t Forget!” list? Let us know in the comments below!

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