Cruise season is upon us my friends! My family and I go on a cruise every year. At this point, it is basically the only, and best, tradition that we have. Cruises are amazing. If all you did was stay on the ship everyday for seven days, you would still have a wonderful vacation. The ship has everything you need: unlimited food, shows, clubs, pools, drinks! Really, what else could you ask for? Coming from an experienced cruiser, there is no doubt that you will forget to bring one little thing that may make or break your cruise vacation. Here are five must haves you probably didn't think of, but will need on your cruise.
Bug Spray
If you plan on exploring the islands you visit - bring. bug. spray. First of all, you don't want to somehow get Zika. Secondly, having bugs walking all over and biting you while you are trying to enjoy your time on this island is annoying. The best tin you can do is buy some OFF! and I promise you everyone you go on vacation with will love you.
Cash
GiphyThis is one thing I always forget because we don't really use cash too often in the states. We basically depend on debit cards. I even know people who only pay for things through their phone using venmo or apply pay. It's a technological world we live in, but not all countries are like that. Most likely, when you get off the ship you will find yourself surrounding by delicious food and clothing. You will approach ready to give your life savings for a gorgeous dress and some indigenous food - only to realize they only take cash and there is not an ATM to find (not one that won't charge you a fortune at least)
Jeans (You never know)
GiphyThe last thing you may be thinking to pack for a cruise is jeans. Jeans don't fit in amongst summer dresses, bikinis, and shorts, but you never know. I remember there was one day where it was a little chilly on one of the islands we went on (who would have thought it gets chilly in the Caribbean?), and I was forced to spend the day in a bikini and shorts because what else would I pack on vacation, right? Bring at least one pair of jeans, trust me.
Stain Remover Pen
GiphyThe worse thing that can ever happen is to be bringing out on some delicious cruise buffet food, only to realize you ruined your expensive shirt you bought specifically for vacation. I remember stain remove pens used to be big in the mid 2000s. Tide sticks were revolutionary. I was surprised to find out they still exist and are better than ever! Tide stain remover pens have saved my life more than once.
Large Water Bottle
GiphyThis really should be up there with bug spray. A refillable water bottle is so necessary! Not only are plastic water bottles easily forgotten, but they do not hold that much water. With all the walking you will most likely be doing in the heat, a large refillable water bottle will become your best friend. Especially since water bottles in other countries can sometimes cost $10+ (don't forget that cash).
