What should I bring with me on my cruise?

What to Bring on a Cruise to Bahamas

• Answer:

  You've booked your first cruise to the Bahamas and are wondering what to pack. While you should check with the cruise line for specific requirements such as evening dress, there are some other basics you should bring on any kind of cruise. For instance, don't forget your umbrella, as it rains year-round. Take your laptop or use the computers provided in the Internet cafes onboard the ship. Take your cell phone or Blackberry and expect to pay roaming charges to your service provider. And, pack all valuables in your carry-on luggage. Clothing 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. Miscellaneous Things 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. Sports Equipment 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. Travel Documents 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.