That was a really helpful video, I liked that you got right to the point and didn't spend the first 2 minutes talking about you and your experiences. A lot of how to videos do that. I'm not sure why this video showed up in my suggestion feed, but I'm glad it did. My sister and her fiancée are going on their first cruise at the end of the year, so I'll show this to her. She might get irritated at me for getting in her business, but I figure it couldn't hurt.
Dolores Tremper op3pzllxlelelllsslslldllspeosdolclcld c .imx,loodododoodpdpd0d0e030e03oddokeldldeooododl4e ,,x.vlj ilzllsolsslsllslso fmv , b b my mom kvk,.s.
Good advice. I can concur about the money. You don't need to carry large sums of cash for the boat because it is cashless (casino maybe the exception). Just for the shore. Bring small bills! Lanyards are essential, particularly if you don't want to pay $10 in the gift shop. Front desk can punch a hole in your key card if you have the type that needs something to pass through. Some other things to think about are: (1) sodas (you mentioned water) or kids drinks if you want them are allowed on some cruise lines (NCL). I bring my own and clear out the fridge (minibar) in our room and put the minibar items on a high shelf till the end of the cruise. Tell your steward what you are doing. (2) A travel power strip and/or a Euro plug adapters are helpful since the outlets are few on older ships. I have been on ships where there was only one outlet in the room and one in the bath (NCL Star). There are 110 and 220v outlets. Most modern electronics (cell phones, cameras and laptops) can use 220v with a plug adapter, but be careful to check ahead of time that it is dual voltage. That can double the amount of available outlets. (3) Another suggestion is clips for towels to keep them in place on your deck chairs. It can get windy in deck. (4) Specialty creamers. Coffee and milk or half and half are available for free. Special creamers (hazelnut, french vanilla, etc.) are not if you like that sort of thing. So bring it and keep it in your mini fridge and bring it with you to breakfast.
+bushyconn Bathing suits lose their appeal as you get older - ha ha ha!! And anyway everyone knows that they need those kind of things. Thanks for watching. Have a great holiday!!
If you're on Carnival, they have an app with a paid (about $5) chat feature that works pretty good that connects to the ships Wifi and is more reliable than walkie talkies as being inside the ship can cause a lack of radio signal. The app also has features such as viewing the days schedule and you can even bookmark events of note that you'd like to attend.
ONE extra tip. Basic brewed coffee is free by the cup any time of day or night, (not the specialty coffees) and room service coffee is also free and they will send you a pot of hot coffee. TIP HERE is to save the coffee pot, wash or rinse it out in your bathroom sink and save it in a cupboard. When you want a pot in the room in the afternoon, take the pot downstairs (or up), fill it and bring it back to your room with your cups. We do this all the time, and is great in the morning for early risers.
+Michael T enjoyed the video anyone interested in tips to save money drink prices on carnival cruises take a look at Debuncar Cruise Saver Aid ( it\'s at crazycruisesaver.banfangenie.com)? our co-worker uses it great
+Michael T There are a few components to cutting costs on cruise trips. One place I found that successfully combines these is the Carls Cruise Cutter (check it out on google) without a doubt the most incredible guide that I've heard of.Check out all the super info .
Love your videos! Recently returned from our 2nd Explorer cruise. One thing that is a Godsend that is a must to bring on a cruise, being shut off in a small cabin or maybe a bigger one shared with up to 4 people is "Just A Drop", or "Fresh Drop"...there are others. It totally eliminates"bathroom smells". It works! Also, as a germaphobe, I bring a can of Lysol and spray every surface before I even unpack. And of course hand sanitizer is my best friend. Great advice, the flashlight was the best! Thanks Dolores!
You have just cleared up one of our biggest headaches in just 12 minutes, thank you kindly for making it clear and simple for us, and i am sure our first ever cruise will go much more smoothly with the vary handy tips you have brought to lite.
Thank you for the great tips! I honestly watch these videos to look for untruths or to give people my advice on cruises (I've been on 5, soon to be 6 in a week) and all of your advice is spot on!
If you plan on bringing any adult toys, be sure to take the batteries out so they're not mistaken for an explosive when your bag goes through X ray. You will likely never get them back. No joke.
one thing most people don't do as far as I know my wife and I are the only ones but to tell or luggage from everyone else we go to Walmart and spend $1.00 to buy a bright colored bandana and tie it to our luggage it is very easy to tell ours from everyone elses
Thanks Dolores, I too am a diamond member. Love your ideas. A couple of other ideas for people are: I bring a battery nightlight for the bathroom. The one I found was only $4.00 at a discount store and it has a dimmer to adjust how bright you like it. An electrical strip is helpful to plug things in. I bring a clock radio that the time shines and also acts as a nightlight in the room. I have tried the idea to hang a shoe bag for 12 shoes on the bathroom door. This can hold so many toiletries. I'm not sure it is really necessary because I think they have good storage but others have loved it. I found that for $5.00 at WalMart. Don't forget other over the counter medication or creams such as Benadryl for any itching or bites. Something for headaches. Something for sunburn. Band aids are also a good idea just in case you get blisters. Going on Allure in Jan and Freedom next November. When is your next cruise? Women this is the time to wear Bling. Love to wear the glitter. Bring a sweater just in case you get cold from the air conditioner. Casino is a great place to break large bills. Purser's desk has also been very helpful to us. You can tell I can go on forever. LOVE CRUSIN!!!!
Great ideas Jacqueline and love your enthusiasm. We are going on Explorer in December, Freedom next August, Liberty next October, and Serenade next November. New ships to us are Liberty and Serenade. Want the Diamond Plus then we may try another cruise line.
She talked about money, you could change a hundred in the casino when it open, no problem. I bring my type of asprin, sea sick pills, alka zelter, tums, anything that you think medically u need bring it, it's expensive in the gift shop. Bring a extension type plug to plug in your electronics, there is usually only one or two 110 volt plugins in your cabin, also walls and doors are metal, bring some magnetic to put paperwork, decorations or what ever on the walls or some people like to put something on their door so see it more easy. I've been on 17 cruises my wife on 25....:) enjoy your cruise.
I have to add a small surge protector to my list along with a few other small items. I love these videos, the stuff you never think of but wish you had when your on the ship & don't have them...
When my parents got stuck on that carnival cruise ship, the mentioned that it was almost impossible to find places to charge their phones and what not and they recommend bringing some sort of mobile battery to charge their phones in case something like that happens again.
very good advice most other liners other than royal Caribbean have irons you can use in the laundry room on every floor I have been on 14 cruises and most of your advice is very good and useful on most ships Richard in the tropics
Hey I saw a things 2 bring video and she didn't say this, but when she took her camera around the room, the cool thing I saw was a shoe organizer hanging over the bathroom door, pack with everything. I liked that idea, The rooms are kind of small, and what away to get thing out of the way. They have about 20 pockets to put hair dryers/ tooth paste/ shampoo/ soap/ no more clutter....put the shoes in the bottom....
Great tips. I am an experienced cruiser. I still got some good information from several of your tips as well as the other tips the viewers have added. As you mentioned the tip about the irons was I was informed these are fire hazards. All irons are confiscated.
Great tips I find taking a highlighter to mark on or schedule a night light a power strip for more outlets and some decorative fun magnets for your door it’s so much easier to find your door.
OUTSTANDING. Thank you so much for this video! I've been making notes, as I'm heading on my first cruise in January - and it's one of those L.A. to NYC through the Panama Canal ones, with all sorts of temperatures (and clothing). Yours is the best video I've seen and I really appreciate the time you and your husband took to make it!
I'\ve watched and re-watched EVERY single video that Delores has made. My daughter and I are going (FIRST EVER CRUISE) Royal Carribean out of Port Canevral on Feb 21st Explorer of the Seas and those videos have been SUCH a help
When we pack at the end of the trip to come home, we pack our 'trinkets' by wrapping them in our clothes then evenly distributing them throughout our suitcase & carry-ons. We usually take 2 bags each, one suitcase, one garment bag (that looks like a suitcase when closed) then one duffle-bag WITH WHEELS each that we can attach to the handles of the suitcases (that also have wheels), so much easier & more efficient for getting through the airports & cruise ship terminal. We do pack a tote-bag for our excursions for both what we'll need for each excursion along with anything we buy to bring home with us.
Definitely the binoculars. I wish I'd brought them on our last cruise because there was so much to see up close. If you are booked in an interior cabin, some kind of night light is a must.
Thank you for this video. I know it's a few years old, but my family is cruising for the first time in October and we're ridiculously excited. These tips are helpful.
Delores I retired from the travel business a few years ago...Enjoyed your video very much...( many cruises) but I still learned from your information. Thanks for all the good info.
If you get caught with alcohol they take it but let you go on the ship. Don't use water bottles as they can shake them and tell which have alcohol because it bubbles slightly.
I'm 12 and iv been on 1 cruise before, Iv always been really interested in goin on another cruise cause it's been almost 4 years since my last and this winter I'm finnaly goin on another! I'm so excited and iv prob watched this video 4 times within the last couple years cause thsi is prob the best cruise packing video iv seen! I hope you do more videos on cruising and tips! Thanks
I put vodka (1.75l with just TWO drops of green dye) in mouthwash bottles, one for each checked bag. Kahlua goes in wine bottles. Wine caps are cheap on EBay and seal with hot water or a blow dryer. Milk is free, you have white russians for the entire cruise. Don't forget a power strip WITH built in breaker. Keep it in the original package and carry it onboard in your carry on. That way, if the try to take it, you can show them that it has a built in circuit breaker.
Yes! On the cell phone all over the place! We were awaken at 2:30 one morning by our phone thinking it was 6:30. Not until we had sat down at the one open "cafe" did we see the real time. After that we did do "Wake Up Call."
loved this....going on my 5th cruise next month. never thought of binoculars ! The best thing that you will get incredible value from every single night of the cruise is an electric candle. Not a real one, the cream color pillar wax battery kind. Keep it in your bathroom or cabin and have enough light to see at night while sleeping. whenever i go to a hotel, i always take an electric candle. and for the room card, wear a lanyard with both the ID and room key on it. slips over the head like a necklace.
Thank you Delores. We are a family of five and this our first time as a family on a big cruise. I saw the wine cork fee and thought we would get charged anywhere to drink it. I was glad to learn this is not the case, so I will bring my wine opener and drink the wine in my room. Can I bring a wine glass? Will we need any extra pillows and blankets or will they supply plenty? Your ideas were great! Especially small cash and sunscreen, and socks! I'm bringing my own lanyard as well. Thanks so much! We are so excited, and have been saving for this for a long time!
Thank you for taking the time and giving the effort to pass on this info. I've never been on a cruise before but I've been thinking about going. I can see myself making many of these mistakes if I didnt know better.
Can't wait for more of your cruise videos!! I've been on 7 cruises, 4 of them Royal Caribbean and I still learned stuff from your video! After next cruise, I'll have Platinum status. Keep the vids coming!!
Awesome video and tips! Also, on Royal Caribbean, no clothes steamers or corkscrews - they will confiscate them. If you bring wine, ask your room steward to bring you a corkscrew to open the wine in your room. If you're not picky about the brand of wine, bring your two bottles with twist-off tops.
I still take my own hairdryer because most cruise ship hairdryers... the only way it works is when your finger is on the on/off button... Take your finger off the button & it shuts off & I understand that it's a safety thing, I'm fine with that, but if you have thick hair, especially long, thick hair, your finger is going to get real sore real fast so I just prefer to save the trouble & bring my own.
It might be good to bring a shoe storage-type bag that fits on a door to hold smaller things that can clutter up a desk. Use for bathroom things, their newspapers, things to grab when you leave the room, etc...
And the most important thing about credit cards - inform them of where you're going and when, or sure as shooting, they will fraud freeze your card and it's a real pain to get that straightened out! I learned this on a trip to Paris. Another thing I learned is that almost no place takes American Express, but almost everywhere accepted versions of VISA, MasterCard and oddly, Discover (Novus in Europe).
Bring two swimsuits so you will have a dry suit to put on if the one you wore yesterday is still drying after your rinsed it out in your stateroom sink. Bring an extra pair of sunglasses for when you lose your first pair -- sunlight reflecting off the water is brutal. Bring a wide brim hat that can be rolled up and stored in your luggage until you get to your state room and do wear it during shore excursions to help avoid painful sunburns. A hat with a chin strap is less likely to get blown overboard (those exterior decks can be windy when the ship is underway). Check with the cruise line to see if your ship has a coffee maker in each stateroom -- if so, be sure to bring your favorite brands/flavors of tea bags and packets of instant hot chocolate. Pack a shawl or lightweight cardigan just in case the main showroom is too air conditioned. Women should avoid wearing high heeled shoes with their evening wear -- bring a pair of dressy low-heeled sandals instead -- because the ship can roll and bounce during weather changes and you do not want to sprain or break an ankle and spend the rest of the cruise confined in your stateroom or being air-evac'd to a hospital. If you have favorite snacks (candy, chips, jerky) that you do not want to do without, bring them in a portable form. Those tubes of Pringles chips work okay in carry-on luggage for people who must have their daily handful of chips. Those "fun size" mini candy bars sold around holidays travel well if you can avoid subjecting them to high heat. Don't forget to bring a fun attitude and tolerance for your fellow passengers -- the main idea is to have a fun time and be kind to your fellow passengers and crew. Leave that impatient, competitive Type A personality at home.
Great vid Dolores. I wanted to add to your list: a good, multi-outlet, power strip. The typical cabin only has two outlets and we usually travel with a half dozen things that need to be plugged in or charged (cameras, tablets, cell phones, electric toothbrushes, laptop, etc.). Having some extra outlets can be really handy.
Just FYI, US doctors are not able to call prescriptions into any other country. They have to be licensed in that country to write prescriptions. They can be called to any US ports of call except Puerto Rico.
Thanks for sharing your cruise knowledge with us we are going on carnival fascination in less than a week and and now we know what to put in our suitcases.
Thanks for sharing this video. I am planning an anniversary cruise for me and my wife in the fall and neither of us have been on a cruise before. ..So this information you passed on is super helpful.
Good video. We've been on 4 cruises so far, and I still got good info from this. Especially helpful was the advice to bring lanyards, and small tube of sunscreen. We always just use the big tube of sunscreen before leaving the ship, but I'm going to get a small tube too. Thanks!
Safety pins and disposable rain poncho - I bring them, never had to use them (probably because I have them - HA!!) But on an excursion, that poncho can come in handy!! Thanks for your video - all good tips (socks? Well, now I'll be ready.) - nicely done!!!
Good tips. Thank you. I have travel quiet a bit and cruise several times, however I have done the mistake of packing to much, i.e., three suits of a seven days cruise, or a lot of shirts, etc, etc, that I didn't even wear. Lately though I was a bit smarter and I cut my first few times packing by half and still I had more than I needed, without having the discomfort of carrying a lot of dead weight. In my last cruise I brought a new tuxedo that I never wore, the cruise was a bad very bad one: Zaandam: Holland America, stinky ship, bad crew, unfriendly, food nothing extraordinary: desserts with tons of sugar poorly made, etc. And they were ALWAYS trying to push/sell something on you, even a shore the ship was in confabulating with certain local merchants, etc, etc. So one more thing to pack is a repellent spray to get rid of the high pressure sales people in the ship and a shore, lol.
This was really good - useful info and I agree with others - your presentation is very good - clear and easy to listen to and you get right to the point- will definitely look for your other videos - thanks
A watch is a very good thing to bring along! I was lucky that my cell phone kept the same time but my friends kept changing by 3 and 4 hours LOL We had ONE electric outlet in our state room. A surge protector is another necessary thing! Before I left on the cruise for the first time I heard that the staterooms can be noisy with clicks and noises from the ship. I usually sleep with a fan. I brought a small 10" fan with me to drown out any extra noise in the night to help me sleep :) I sailed Carnival - One bit of advice... if you back up your sail card with a debit or credit card make sure you bring it along on the cruise. My bank put a hold on my account since charges were out of state and I learned that my sail card could not be "unblocked" without swiping my credit card at guest services (even with bank approval after calling them from the ship)
We love to cruise and are Diamond on RCCL. I take a steamer for our clothes. Not sure how that spray wrinkle release works. Also, imodium, something for nausea & a little first aid kit along with Aloe Vera for sunburn, just in case. I've also brought an extension cord. Which I don't think your supposed to use, but, if you're charging items, and using a hair dryer, etc. it comes in handy. Don't forget aspirins, etc. Items are expensive on the ship & I keep most of these items in a ziploc bag. Oh, and don't forget to take ziploc freezer bags. I always find uses for them, when we're sailing. Plus I pick-up these plastic waterproof cases at my neighborhood store, you can put them around your neck when you're in the ocean. They will hold your Seapass card/credit card for you if you & your partner are swimming on the beach. I don't leave any valuables on the beach. You just never know.
We always do back to back next cruise Will be ON Explorer ON sep 20 and the 25,the first leg is a 5 days cruise to bermuda and then the second is 9 night caribbean
Thanks for all the tips... Going on my first RC cruise with my mom, Mother's Day 2014 can't wait.. I have been only on 1 other cruise much smaller.. Can't wait. Take care
I have heard that Disney is fantastic and their holiday cruise must have been great. I have the impression that their cruises are much nicer than RC but I don't know that it is just hear say. We don't do Disney for 3 reasons(all the kids, no casino,and much more expensive). RC does not really do a holiday cruise we just got back and it was lacking in holiday entertainment and decorations.
In australia .. ever since i went.. 2012 .. still the same.. photo id is in corporated with the room key.. a lot of the things you suggested were good.. especially the small money idea..id didnt even think of that ..thx
Good job. I would also add: Swim Ear and eye glass cleaner and plastic bags if you go to port on water slides or water areas to keep your cards dry. You cant buy those on the ship or in port.
Great tips from a seasoned cruiser. I noticed you're a Diamond member. My husband and I just went on our second RC cruise. We're hooked! Thanks for the tips.
loved this it was so helpful im going on a cruise soon in like 12 days ive been on 11 cruises and still dont know what to pack so thanks this was very helpful!
Attila Jonas You will have a great time on your cruise. I have never been on a cruise in Europe, but everyone who I have talked to say they are the best cruises. Enjoy!!!!!!!!!!!
THANK YOU! I can't stand wearing pants therefore would never thought to bring them for skating. So glad I saw your video, the only one on youtube so far to give this tip. So thanks!
I love all your videos, especially when you were sick, but only because Steve became animated. He was laughing at you but he obviously loves you and happily took over as cameraperson. This video I think, the most important item you said to pack was a FLASHLIGHT. That is SOOO important and we pack them on ours. Question: We did you get your triple action flashlight?
Hi Merrie - Thanks for reaching out and commenting on my videos. I have such a fun time doing them. I have to get back to it. I ordered the flashlight from the aaa motor club online. Love it.
Thank you for this vid. Light bulb moment was to bring a watch. WOW, don't wear them since I have the phone. and small bills was really interesting. Will be going in Jan and this will help.
Thank you - Have a great first cruise. I am so jealous. On our first cruise my husband and I were walking on deck on night and I turned to him and said this is the best vacation I have ever been on. Hope you feel the same.
Our first cruise in 2011 we did not have passports only driver's licenses. But if you have any problems like you miss getting back to the boat or you have to change your plans for medical reasons and have to fly home it will be more difficult without a passport.
invest in polyester golf shirts. they sell them at Costco, I buy the ones with the pockets at Amazon. wash them in the sink or shower, they will dry in about 4 hours,wrinkle and odor free. bring a small bottle of Castillo liquid soap or bar. also buy " boot clips" you can wash your shirts or socks and hang them anywhere. you do not have to bring alot of clothes.
On Carnival ships, they charge a corking fee if they open your wine bottle in the dining room. However, if you open it on your own, they can't charge you. So take your own wine key!!!
If you are a smoker your Set Sail Pass will also fit perfectly in between your pack and the cellophane. Tons of great info here, good video. Only 3 more and I'll be on that Diamond status with you lol
That was a really helpful video, I liked that you got right to the point and didn't spend the first 2 minutes talking about you and your experiences. A lot of how to videos do that.
I'm not sure why this video showed up in my suggestion feed, but I'm glad it did. My sister and her fiancée are going on their first cruise at the end of the year, so I'll show this to her. She might get irritated at me for getting in her business, but I figure it couldn't hurt.
You are a good sister!! These are good tips!!
Dolores Tremper op3pzllxlelelllsslslldllspeosdolclcld c .imx,loodododoodpdpd0d0e030e03oddokeldldeooododl4e ,,x.vlj ilzllsolsslsllslso fmv ,
b
b my mom kvk,.s.
What she said ! LOL...
I have spent months studying cutting costs during cruise trips and found a great resource at Arack ship tips (google it if you are interested)
Good advice. I can concur about the money. You don't need to carry large sums of cash for the boat because it is cashless (casino maybe the exception). Just for the shore. Bring small bills! Lanyards are essential, particularly if you don't want to pay $10 in the gift shop. Front desk can punch a hole in your key card if you have the type that needs something to pass through.
Some other things to think about are: (1) sodas (you mentioned water) or kids drinks if you want them are allowed on some cruise lines (NCL). I bring my own and clear out the fridge (minibar) in our room and put the minibar items on a high shelf till the end of the cruise. Tell your steward what you are doing. (2) A travel power strip and/or a Euro plug adapters are helpful since the outlets are few on older ships. I have been on ships where there was only one outlet in the room and one in the bath (NCL Star). There are 110 and 220v outlets. Most modern electronics (cell phones, cameras and laptops) can use 220v with a plug adapter, but be careful to check ahead of time that it is dual voltage. That can double the amount of available outlets. (3) Another suggestion is clips for towels to keep them in place on your deck chairs. It can get windy in deck. (4) Specialty creamers. Coffee and milk or half and half are available for free. Special creamers (hazelnut, french vanilla, etc.) are not if you like that sort of thing. So bring it and keep it in your mini fridge and bring it with you to breakfast.
There are so many people who pack so many things :’) I love to pack light!
Nice to find someone who doesn't drone on about how many swimsuits are needed for a 10 day cruise!!
+bushyconn Bathing suits lose their appeal as you get older - ha ha ha!! And anyway everyone knows that they need those kind of things. Thanks for watching. Have a great holiday!!
+Dolores Tremper lol!
10. You need 10. lol!!!
+bushyconn I saw you comment on Joe Somebody's Carnival Victory video!!! OMG~!!!!!!
+Darla LOL your fun.
On the cruise I went on we brought Walkie Talkies- We are a family. They helped!
If you're on Carnival, they have an app with a paid (about $5) chat feature that works pretty good that connects to the ships Wifi and is more reliable than walkie talkies as being inside the ship can cause a lack of radio signal. The app also has features such as viewing the days schedule and you can even bookmark events of note that you'd like to attend.
ONE extra tip.
Basic brewed coffee is free by the cup any time of day or night, (not the specialty coffees) and room service coffee is also free and they will send you a pot of hot coffee. TIP HERE is to save the coffee pot, wash or rinse it out in your bathroom sink and save it in a cupboard. When you want a pot in the room in the afternoon, take the pot downstairs (or up), fill it and bring it back to your room with your cups. We do this all the time, and is great in the morning for early risers.
+Michael T Great idea - Thanks Michael. I like this one.
+Michael T enjoyed the video anyone interested in tips to save money drink prices on carnival cruises take a look at Debuncar Cruise Saver Aid ( it\'s at crazycruisesaver.banfangenie.com)? our co-worker uses it great
+Michael T There are a few components to cutting costs on cruise trips. One place I found that successfully combines these is the Carls Cruise Cutter (check it out on google) without a doubt the most incredible guide that I've heard of.Check out all the super info .
just got back and wish i had seen the coffee pot suggestion first.
ROFL.. nice selling a website to promote saving money on cruise ships.. very slick.. its the same typical cookie cutter website that scammers use..
Love your videos! Recently returned from our 2nd Explorer cruise. One thing that is a Godsend that is a must to bring on a cruise, being shut off in a small cabin or maybe a bigger one shared with up to 4 people is "Just A Drop", or "Fresh Drop"...there are others. It totally eliminates"bathroom smells". It works! Also, as a germaphobe, I bring a can of Lysol and spray every surface before I even unpack. And of course hand sanitizer is my best friend. Great advice, the flashlight was the best! Thanks Dolores!
These are great ideas. I am looking up "Just a Drop" and "Fresh Drop" right now. Thanks!
You have just cleared up one of our biggest headaches in just 12 minutes, thank you kindly for making it clear and simple for us, and i am sure our first ever cruise will go much more smoothly with the vary handy tips you have brought to lite.
Sheryl Dawn Thanks Sheryl - Enjoy your first cruise. You will have a GREAT time.
Remember set your watch to "SHIP TIME", don't be a dock runner 🛳🛳
Thank you for the great tips! I honestly watch these videos to look for untruths or to give people my advice on cruises (I've been on 5, soon to be 6 in a week) and all of your advice is spot on!
+Amanda Massengill Thanks Amanda
Great video. Thank you for the tips. Going on a Carnival cruise to the Bahamas. Glad I looked into these tips videos. Lots of stuff I'd overlook.
carpenter clamps, to secure your towels against the wind whilst sunbathing
big soda cup is usefull as they will fill it up at the bar rather than the tiny amount they usually give you in their little cups filled with ice
If you plan on bringing any adult toys, be sure to take the batteries out so they're not mistaken for an explosive when your bag goes through X ray. You will likely never get them back. No joke.
one thing most people don't do as far as I know my wife and I are the only ones but to tell or luggage from everyone else we go to Walmart and spend $1.00 to buy a bright colored bandana and tie it to our luggage it is very easy to tell ours from everyone elses
+James Ayers Another great idea thanks. Sounds as though it makes life easier
Thanks Dolores, I too am a diamond member. Love your ideas. A couple of other ideas for people are: I bring a battery nightlight for the bathroom. The one I found was only $4.00 at a discount store and it has a dimmer to adjust how bright you like it. An electrical strip is helpful to plug things in. I bring a clock radio that the time shines and also acts as a nightlight in the room. I have tried the idea to hang a shoe bag for 12 shoes on the bathroom door. This can hold so many toiletries. I'm not sure it is really necessary because I think they have good storage but others have loved it. I found that for $5.00 at WalMart. Don't forget other over the counter medication or creams such as Benadryl for any itching or bites. Something for headaches. Something for sunburn. Band aids are also a good idea just in case you get blisters. Going on Allure in Jan and Freedom next November. When is your next cruise? Women this is the time to wear Bling. Love to wear the glitter. Bring a sweater just in case you get cold from the air conditioner. Casino is a great place to break large bills. Purser's desk has also been very helpful to us. You can tell I can go on forever. LOVE CRUSIN!!!!
Great ideas Jacqueline and love your enthusiasm. We are going on Explorer in December, Freedom next August, Liberty next October, and Serenade next November. New ships to us are Liberty and Serenade. Want the Diamond Plus then we may try another cruise line.
On Carnival cruises if you go the casino they'll punch a hole in your card and give you a lanyard for free. Super useful
Also, you can bring a pack of soda per guest. Also for Carnival, don't know about others
Jonathan Nunez Thanks, did not know that.
Jonathan Nunez Good one, I am going to check that out !!!!!!!!!! Thanks again
She talked about money, you could change a hundred in the casino when it open, no problem. I bring my type of asprin, sea sick pills, alka zelter, tums, anything that you think medically u need bring it, it's expensive in the gift shop. Bring a extension type plug to plug in your electronics, there is usually only one or two 110 volt plugins in your cabin, also walls and doors are metal, bring some magnetic to put paperwork, decorations or what ever on the walls or some people like to put something on their door so see it more easy. I've been on 17 cruises my wife on 25....:) enjoy your cruise.
+Kerry Drennan Great additions thanks
I've been researching into cutting costs during cruise trips and found a great resource at Arack Ship Tips (google it if you're interested)
I have to add a small surge protector to my list along with a few other small items. I love these videos, the stuff you never think of but wish you had when your on the ship & don't have them...
Kerry Drennan iii
Hiw much spending money do you recommend?
So true about the small bills!
When my parents got stuck on that carnival cruise ship, the mentioned that it was almost impossible to find places to charge their phones and what not and they recommend bringing some sort of mobile battery to charge their phones in case something like that happens again.
anv119 Great advise thank you
Bruh, It's Antho
very good advice most other liners other than royal Caribbean have irons you can use in the laundry room on every floor
I have been on 14 cruises and most of your advice is very good and useful on most ships
Richard in the tropics
Thanks for responding Richard. Availabitly to irons is great.
Hey I saw a things 2 bring video and she didn't say this, but when she took her camera around the room, the cool thing I saw was a shoe organizer hanging over the bathroom door, pack with everything. I liked that idea, The rooms are kind of small, and what away to get thing out of the way. They have about 20 pockets to put hair dryers/ tooth paste/ shampoo/ soap/ no more clutter....put the shoes in the bottom....
Great tips. I am an experienced cruiser. I still got some good information from several of your tips as well as the other tips the viewers have added. As you mentioned the tip about the irons was I was informed these are fire hazards. All irons are confiscated.
Great tips I find taking a highlighter to mark on or schedule a night light a power strip for more outlets and some decorative fun magnets for your door it’s so much easier to find your door.
OUTSTANDING. Thank you so much for this video! I've been making notes, as I'm heading on my first cruise in January - and it's one of those L.A. to NYC through the Panama Canal ones, with all sorts of temperatures (and clothing). Yours is the best video I've seen and I really appreciate the time you and your husband took to make it!
I'\ve watched and re-watched EVERY single video that Delores has made. My daughter and I are going (FIRST EVER CRUISE) Royal Carribean out of Port Canevral on Feb 21st Explorer of the Seas and those videos have been SUCH a help
Awe - I am so glad I could be of assistance. You will so love cruiseing. It becomes addictive.
Bring Half The Clothes And Twice The Money
BellinghamsterTrail How true!
I used to think it was a cynical way to look at it but after 10 cruises I know its a fact. :O) You give some great tips as well.
When we pack at the end of the trip to come home, we pack our 'trinkets' by wrapping them in our clothes then evenly distributing them throughout our suitcase & carry-ons. We usually take 2 bags each, one suitcase, one garment bag (that looks like a suitcase when closed) then one duffle-bag WITH WHEELS each that we can attach to the handles of the suitcases (that also have wheels), so much easier & more efficient for getting through the airports & cruise ship terminal. We do pack a tote-bag for our excursions for both what we'll need for each excursion along with anything we buy to bring home with us.
Definitely the binoculars. I wish I'd brought them on our last cruise because there was so much to see up close.
If you are booked in an interior cabin, some kind of night light is a must.
Thank you for this video. I know it's a few years old, but my family is cruising for the first time in October and we're ridiculously excited. These tips are helpful.
Delores I retired from the travel business a few years ago...Enjoyed your video very much...( many cruises) but I still learned from your information. Thanks for all the good info.
I also bring an over the door shoe holder that I use in the bathroom to put all toiletries and I bring a multi outlet plug to charge all my devices.
Thanks for the advice I've never been on a cruise but I am going on a cruise in December
If you get caught with alcohol they take it but let you go on the ship. Don't use water bottles as they can shake them and tell which have alcohol because it bubbles slightly.
Thanks - Good advice but I'll never do it.
I'm 12 and iv been on 1 cruise before, Iv always been really interested in goin on another cruise cause it's been almost 4 years since my last and this winter I'm finnaly goin on another! I'm so excited and iv prob watched this video 4 times within the last couple years cause thsi is prob the best cruise packing video iv seen! I hope you do more videos on cruising and tips! Thanks
Charlotte Rose! Thanks Charlotte - Hope you have a fantastic second cruise!
I put vodka (1.75l with just TWO drops of green dye) in mouthwash bottles, one for each checked bag. Kahlua goes in wine bottles. Wine caps are cheap on EBay and seal with hot water or a blow dryer. Milk is free, you have white russians for the entire cruise. Don't forget a power strip WITH built in breaker. Keep it in the original package and carry it onboard in your carry on. That way, if the try to take it, you can show them that it has a built in circuit breaker.
Thanks for the extra tips.
Yes! On the cell phone all over the place! We were awaken at 2:30 one morning by our phone thinking it was 6:30. Not until we had sat down at the one open "cafe" did we see the real time. After that we did do "Wake Up Call."
+Gerald Walker Pretty funny
loved this....going on my 5th cruise next month. never thought of binoculars ! The best thing that you will get incredible value from every single night of the cruise is an electric candle. Not a real one, the cream color pillar wax battery kind. Keep it in your bathroom or cabin and have enough light to see at night while sleeping. whenever i go to a hotel, i always take an electric candle. and for the room card, wear a lanyard with both the ID and room key on it. slips over the head like a necklace.
I could listen to this lovely woman all day long.
Thank you Delores. We are a family of five and this our first time as a family on a big cruise. I saw the wine cork fee and thought we would get charged anywhere to drink it. I was glad to learn this is not the case, so I will bring my wine opener and drink the wine in my room. Can I bring a wine glass? Will we need any extra pillows and blankets or will they supply plenty? Your ideas were great! Especially small cash and sunscreen, and socks! I'm bringing my own lanyard as well. Thanks so much! We are so excited, and have been saving for this for a long time!
Thank you for taking the time and giving the effort to pass on this info. I've never been on a cruise before but I've been thinking about going. I can see myself making many of these mistakes if I didnt know better.
Can't wait for more of your cruise videos!! I've been on 7 cruises, 4 of them Royal Caribbean and I still learned stuff from your video! After next cruise, I'll have Platinum status. Keep the vids coming!!
Rich F Thanks - Keep on cruising!!
Awesome video and tips!
Also, on Royal Caribbean, no clothes steamers or corkscrews - they will confiscate them. If you bring wine, ask your room steward to bring you a corkscrew to open the wine in your room. If you're not picky about the brand of wine, bring your two bottles with twist-off tops.
Very helpful, thank you. I may not have thought to bring a supply of $1 bills, and I definitely would not have thought of the lanyards and the socks!
You are welcome. Hope you get to use the tips.
I still take my own hairdryer because most cruise ship hairdryers... the only way it works is when your finger is on the on/off button... Take your finger off the button & it shuts off & I understand that it's a safety thing, I'm fine with that, but if you have thick hair, especially long, thick hair, your finger is going to get real sore real fast so I just prefer to save the trouble & bring my own.
It might be good to bring a shoe storage-type bag that fits on a door to hold smaller things that can clutter up a desk. Use for bathroom things, their newspapers, things to grab when you leave the room, etc...
+Janell Kneeland Great idea - Thanks
And the most important thing about credit cards - inform them of where you're going and when, or sure as shooting, they will fraud freeze your card and it's a real pain to get that straightened out! I learned this on a trip to Paris. Another thing I learned is that almost no place takes American Express, but almost everywhere accepted versions of VISA, MasterCard and oddly, Discover (Novus in Europe).
This is such a great video! Great tips I didn't know of! I've been on Royal, Norwegian, and Celebrity and they all have the same rules
Thanks Cindy
Bring two swimsuits so you will have a dry suit to put on if the one you wore yesterday is still drying after your rinsed it out in your stateroom sink.
Bring an extra pair of sunglasses for when you lose your first pair -- sunlight reflecting off the water is brutal.
Bring a wide brim hat that can be rolled up and stored in your luggage until you get to your state room and do wear it during shore excursions to help avoid painful sunburns. A hat with a chin strap is less likely to get blown overboard (those exterior decks can be windy when the ship is underway).
Check with the cruise line to see if your ship has a coffee maker in each stateroom -- if so, be sure to bring your favorite brands/flavors of tea bags and packets of instant hot chocolate.
Pack a shawl or lightweight cardigan just in case the main showroom is too air conditioned.
Women should avoid wearing high heeled shoes with their evening wear -- bring a pair of dressy low-heeled sandals instead -- because the ship can roll and bounce during weather changes and you do not want to sprain or break an ankle and spend the rest of the cruise confined in your stateroom or being air-evac'd to a hospital.
If you have favorite snacks (candy, chips, jerky) that you do not want to do without, bring them in a portable form. Those tubes of Pringles chips work okay in carry-on luggage for people who must have their daily handful of chips. Those "fun size" mini candy bars sold around holidays travel well if you can avoid subjecting them to high heat.
Don't forget to bring a fun attitude and tolerance for your fellow passengers -- the main idea is to have a fun time and be kind to your fellow passengers and crew. Leave that impatient, competitive Type A personality at home.
Great vid Dolores. I wanted to add to your list: a good, multi-outlet, power strip. The typical cabin only has two outlets and we usually travel with a half dozen things that need to be plugged in or charged (cameras, tablets, cell phones, electric toothbrushes, laptop, etc.). Having some extra outlets can be really handy.
Great idea. Thanks
Just FYI, US doctors are not able to call prescriptions into any other country. They have to be licensed in that country to write prescriptions. They can be called to any US ports of call except Puerto Rico.
Never knew that - thank you so much for this comment.
Excellent advice, (especially about the Tums!).
+Very unOfficial Travel Guides Thanks
Thank you! This was probably one of the most helpful videos I've seen thus far. Thank you, Dolores:)
This is what the Internet and CZcams are great for...rather than watching a goofball playing a video game and cursing.
Thanks for sharing your cruise knowledge with us we are going on carnival fascination in less than a week and and now we know what to put in our suitcases.
+Jayden Austin Enjoy your cruise!!!! It will be your best vacation ever.
Thanks for sharing this video. I am planning an anniversary cruise for me and my wife in the fall and neither of us have been on a cruise before. ..So this information you passed on is super helpful.
TheRecon1a depending on which cruise line you're going on bring a power cord
Good video. We've been on 4 cruises so far, and I still got good info from this. Especially helpful was the advice to bring lanyards, and small tube of sunscreen. We always just use the big tube of sunscreen before leaving the ship, but I'm going to get a small tube too. Thanks!
Thanks - Lorie. Hope to see you on a cruise one day.
Thanks! Me and my husband are going on our first cruise so I'm watching videos to learn things. I really loved your video the most! Thanks so much.
+janice jackson First time cruises are the best... Enjoy!!!!
Safety pins and disposable rain poncho - I bring them, never had to use them (probably because I have them - HA!!) But on an excursion, that poncho can come in handy!! Thanks for your video - all good tips (socks? Well, now I'll be ready.) - nicely done!!!
Hi Deb - You're welcome and thanks for the new tips you've added. Have a great day!
Good tips. Thank you. I have travel quiet a bit and cruise several times, however I have done the mistake of packing to much, i.e., three suits of a seven days cruise, or a lot of shirts, etc, etc, that I didn't even wear. Lately though I was a bit smarter and I cut my first few times packing by half and still I had more than I needed, without having the discomfort of carrying a lot of dead weight. In my last cruise I brought a new tuxedo that I never wore, the cruise was a bad very bad one: Zaandam: Holland America, stinky ship, bad crew, unfriendly, food nothing extraordinary: desserts with tons of sugar poorly made, etc. And they were ALWAYS trying to push/sell something on you, even a shore the ship was in confabulating with certain local merchants, etc, etc. So one more thing to pack is a repellent spray to get rid of the high pressure sales people in the ship and a shore, lol.
Oh John, you make me laugh. But how true, how true.
"Travel light, leave in the night." -Al Bundy
Good tips for anyone cruising. Same rule apply to most cruise lines.
Katrice Hardaway Thanks Katrice - Good to know about other cruise lines.
Thank you very much for these tips! Especially the tips on bringing a watch and socks!
This was really good - useful info and I agree with others - your presentation is very good - clear and easy to listen to and you get right to the point- will definitely look for your other videos - thanks
Thank you Janet. I just started a new website if you are interested go to www.DeesTimes.com
Thanks very helpful, going with my long lost cousins this May. Never been on one before this was very helpful. Bless you.
A watch is a very good thing to bring along! I was lucky that my cell phone kept the same time but my friends kept changing by 3 and 4 hours LOL
We had ONE electric outlet in our state room. A surge protector is another necessary thing!
Before I left on the cruise for the first time I heard that the staterooms can be noisy with clicks and noises from the ship. I usually sleep with a fan. I brought a small 10" fan with me to drown out any extra noise in the night to help me sleep :)
I sailed Carnival - One bit of advice... if you back up your sail card with a debit or credit card make sure you bring it along on the cruise. My bank put a hold on my account since charges were out of state and I learned that my sail card could not be "unblocked" without swiping my credit card at guest services (even with bank approval after calling them from the ship)
oOkpd625Oo Great advice thanks
Thank you so much for taking the time to make this video!!! I would not have thought about the watch and that would have been a huge nuisance
Thank you, I love your tips and will use them. :)
Welcome - Just got back from a 9 day cruise.
Sandra Graves p
We love to cruise and are Diamond on RCCL. I take a steamer for our clothes. Not sure how that spray wrinkle release works. Also, imodium, something for nausea & a little first aid kit along with Aloe Vera for sunburn, just in case. I've also brought an extension cord. Which I don't think your supposed to use, but, if you're charging items, and using a hair dryer, etc. it comes in handy. Don't forget aspirins, etc. Items are expensive on the ship & I keep most of these items in a ziploc bag. Oh, and don't forget to take ziploc freezer bags. I always find uses for them, when we're sailing. Plus I pick-up these plastic waterproof cases at my neighborhood store, you can put them around your neck when you're in the ocean. They will hold your Seapass card/credit card for you if you & your partner are swimming on the beach. I don't leave any valuables on the beach. You just never know.
Great ideas,Donna - thanks for sharing. I am going to look for a steamer to bring next time.
That's a very good list, especially the binoculars- i wish we had brought those on our alaska cruise.
We always do back to back next cruise Will be ON Explorer ON sep 20 and the 25,the first leg is a 5 days cruise to bermuda and then the second is 9 night caribbean
Never tried a back to back. We will have to do that one time. What kind of rooms do you stay in?
Thanks for all the tips... Going on my first RC cruise with my mom, Mother's Day 2014 can't wait.. I have been only on 1 other cruise much smaller.. Can't wait. Take care
You will love a RC cruise. What other cruise line did you go on?
Not many.. Just a Disney cruise last Dec with hubby with no kids. We had the best time. I am looking forward to an adult cruise and a BIG ship.. Haha
I have heard that Disney is fantastic and their holiday cruise must have been great. I have the impression that their cruises are much nicer than RC but I don't know that it is just hear say. We don't do Disney for 3 reasons(all the kids, no casino,and much more expensive). RC does not really do a holiday cruise we just got back and it was lacking in holiday entertainment and decorations.
In australia .. ever since i went.. 2012 .. still the same.. photo id is in corporated with the room key.. a lot of the things you suggested were good.. especially the small money idea..id didnt even think of that ..thx
Thanks Dolores!! I love the tips about the $1s, the Tums, and everything.
Welcome - hope they come in handy.
Good job. I would also add: Swim Ear and eye glass cleaner and plastic bags if you go to port on water slides or water areas to keep your cards dry. You cant buy those on the ship or in port.
Fantastic tips to add - thanks!
Hi Dolores, I'm going on a cruise next week with my family and found your video to be very helpful. Thank you!!!
Cell phones have a flashlight and an alarm. So forget the flashlight.
Great tips from a seasoned cruiser. I noticed you're a Diamond member. My husband and I just went on our second RC cruise. We're hooked! Thanks for the tips.
loved this it was so helpful im going on a cruise soon in like 12 days ive been on 11 cruises and still dont know what to pack so thanks this was very helpful!
The best time to do back to back is october ,and november there prices are down
Thank you for the video Dolores! Me and my wife are going to go on our first cruise in Europe this summer, and we are really excited!
Attila Jonas You will have a great time on your cruise. I have never been on a cruise in Europe, but everyone who I have talked to say they are the best cruises. Enjoy!!!!!!!!!!!
THANK YOU! I can't stand wearing pants therefore would never thought to bring them for skating. So glad I saw your video, the only one on youtube so far to give this tip. So thanks!
Enjoy your cruise and ice skating at sea.
I love all your videos, especially when you were sick, but only because Steve became animated. He was laughing at you but he obviously loves you and happily took over as cameraperson. This video I think, the most important item you said to pack was a FLASHLIGHT. That is SOOO important and we pack them on ours. Question: We did you get your triple action flashlight?
Hi Merrie - Thanks for reaching out and commenting on my videos. I have such a fun time doing them. I have to get back to it. I ordered the flashlight from the aaa motor club online. Love it.
Thanks for the info I'm going on a cruise tomorrow I'm going on p&o pacific Jewel for 2 weeks. Super excited and your tips helped a lot.
+Soccer Skillerz Hope you are having a great time!!!!
people bring irons on cruises?! I've heard it all now hahahaha
Thanks for sharing ,great video , very helpful . We are going on Norwegian cruise to Bermuda for the first time.
Have a great time. My daughter went on Norwegian to Bermuda and really enjoyed the cruise.
one thing that i learnt the hardway nvr ever bring a travel adaptor and extension wire
Thank you for this vid. Light bulb moment was to bring a watch. WOW, don't wear them since I have the phone. and small bills was really interesting. Will be going in Jan and this will help.
Your tips are very helpful! We are going on our first cruise March 28. Thank you for sharing.
Thank you - Have a great first cruise. I am so jealous. On our first cruise my husband and I were walking on deck on night and I turned to him and said this is the best vacation I have ever been on. Hope you feel the same.
Diana Verba Have a great first cruise.
Our first cruise in 2011 we did not have passports only driver's licenses. But if you have any problems like you miss getting back to the boat or you have to change your plans for medical reasons and have to fly home it will be more difficult without a passport.
Agree, have a passport so that you can be airlifted for medical emergency and get home from anywhere.
Going on my first cruise in 2 weeks. This was very helpful. Thank you!
your tips are great for any trip regardless of sea or land!!
One important thing to remember is always keep your medication in your carry on.if you put it in checked luggage and lose your bag then what?
Yes Keith I agree. Good thing for everyone to know.
This is so helpful my husband and I are going on a cruise for our anniversary !!!
invest in polyester golf shirts. they sell them at Costco, I buy the ones with the pockets at Amazon. wash them in the sink or shower, they will dry in about 4 hours,wrinkle and odor free. bring a small bottle of Castillo liquid soap or bar. also buy " boot clips" you can wash your shirts or socks and hang them anywhere. you do not have to bring alot of clothes.
also surge protector bc most bedrooms only have 1-2 plug ind
cheers! thanks for the reminder of binoculars!
valda triegaardt txxx
xcxx
Very helpful. Great advice! Thank you. I like the two credit card and small bills suggestions.
+TechLady Great now get out there and cruise
On Carnival ships, they charge a corking fee if they open your wine bottle in the dining room. However, if you open it on your own, they can't charge you. So take your own wine key!!!
Thanks for the good tip!
I have spent months investigating saving money on cruises and found a great resource at Carls Cruise Cutter (google it if you are interested)
betaomega04 Norwegian charges a $15 per bottle corkage fee no matter where you open the wine.
If you are a smoker your Set Sail Pass will also fit perfectly in between your pack and the cellophane. Tons of great info here, good video. Only 3 more and I'll be on that Diamond status with you lol
Great idea. Haven't smoked since I started cruising though. My goal is diamnond Plus.
Thanks for the info! Being a Canadian, I have one tip that we can all agree on : You never know when you need long pants.
+Raymond Wang How true
Thank you for your advices, Dolores. Very great tips!
+Ivo Rodrigues You are very welcome - Hope you can use them