Packing for 3/31 Noordam WHAT DONT YOU LEAVE HOME WITH OUT

[MrSynystr]

Hey all I first want to thank you all for the helpfull information, I am a cruise newbie and this board was a great find. Well I am Getting ready to pack now for my 3/31 Noordam. Doing it now because I work during the week. I have a list of things to bring and was wondering if anyone else has any tips..

Let me give you my list so far


power strip- heard there is only one outlet in room
fan - just something from home like the white noise
sun screen - take what I have hear will be cheaper then buying there spf 30
highlighters - to mark the activities to do on daily sheets
bars of soap - I know there is soap but I like mine
camcorder - too obviouse
aspirin - again im sure its cheaper here then there
Immodium - see above and a must have if your going to go on a looooong excursion, like a hike and also with trying food your not used to
tums - actually bought pepto tabs again cheaper here
baby wipes - a home comfort for the bathroom
clothespins - To hang clothes you hand wash and to from what ive read here to keep blinds closed on verenda
night light - cause its not kewl to wake up in the middel of the night and pee in a strange place
air freshner - just in case the room is stinky was debating on a plug in but then remembered the outlet shortage so I went with a glade orb thing
Lysol - I am a clean freak toilet and sink shower will be lysoled down
charger for cell phone - cause it would realy stink to have phone and forget this
post its and pen - to leave notes for room steward if necessary
detergent - to wash clothes buy hand ( put a little of liquid detergent in a small empty dish soap bottle )well lets see what other suggestions you pros have ?
what dont you leave home with out?


Thanks again
RD

[Betsy's Mom]

On the Amsterdam this fall we used a three way power plug instead of a power strip, small and easier to pack. Do not flush your potty wipes, you will clog the system, dispose in waste basket! We also used very small flashlights for night trips to the bathroom. They are so small they slip into packed shoes. You can use shampoo for hand washables, works fine.
Enjoy your trip! :)
B.

[jtl513]

We travel light, and don't take most of the things already on your list, but DW suggested you add some kind of a hat/cap, a disposable plastic "poncho", mosquito repellant, and Shout or some other brand of instant stain remover. I should point out, though, that she has carried the ponchos on many, many trips and we've never used them! :D I carry a small roll of duct (aka duck) tape for emergency repairs ... which I have used.

[allybunnie]

We were on the 2/28 Noordam....just some ideas

1. I usually don't burn & if I use 30 spf sunscreen I am always good, but....the sun was pretty strong when we were there & I wished I had stronger sunscreen as I did get a little burnt - its soooo much cheaper here...

2. Zicam nose swabs - its for use at the first sign of a cold - there was alot of colds/flu going around on the ship & I used my Zicam about 4 or 5 times - stopped me from catching what everyone else seemed to have - at the first signs of a runny nose or scratchy throat if I used it once that day it stopped me from getting sick....

3. A plastic insulated mug/cup with cover - comes in very handy to keep at the pool or lounge chair so you can have some juice/water/drinks with you without having to keep chasing a plastic cup from the bars.....

4. plastic ziploc bags for grabbing some fruit/snacks/etc.... to take off ship with you in port - we did our own thing in the ports instead of the shore excursions off ship & it is nice to have those free snacks from ship as it is pretty expensive to grab food @ the beaches etc....

5. do buy the large 2.00 waters they offer as you get off the ship in port as it is twice that to get water once you get onto the islands...

Hope you have alot of fun!!!!

[NoNoNanette]

We always bring a couple of hundred single dollar bills for tipping....

A bottle of Downey Wrinkle-Release spray might come in handy, too! :)

[jtl513]

4. plastic ziploc bags for grabbing some fruit/snacks/etc.... to take off ship with you in port ...
Don't most countries (islands) object to the importation of fruits, plants, etc? :confused:

[OssieBear]

Air fresherners were a key to our room! 1 in the room, 1 in the bathroom, and 1 in the closet where we stashed dirty laundry. Helped give the room a "clean laundry" scent instead of the stale scent it had on our arrival. We left the bathroom light on with the door closed all night, worked better than a night light would have.

Enjoy your trip!

[Jade13]

Seems like a lot of extra stuff. The only thing we bring from that list is a dvd recorder and cell phone charger. I do like the nightlight idea.

I always take a mini -umbrella.

[SugarPlum]

I don't leave home without:

When traveling with a companion, I cross pack.


Essentials

To be carried with you

Tickets and Itinerary (3 copies - 1 pack in carry-on, 1 in checked luggage, and leave 1 copy with someone at home)
Passport/Visa
Driver’s License or State ID
Cell Phone and Charger (put the word ICE in front of the name to whom you would like emergency worker to contact In Case of Emergency = ICE)
Cash
Credit Card
Travelers & Personal Checks
Pre-Paid Phone Card
Address list (list of important contacts & numbers)/Address book
Medical Insurance Cards/Medical History (especially if traveling alone)
Copy of Prescriptions and list of all Medicines you are taking Note: Photocopy the inside page of your passport which includes photo and passport number. Keep it in your suitcase and at home.


Small Carry-on Bag for Each Person
No tweezers, or sharp instruments

Change of Clothing (for 2 or 3 days)
Medications
Toiletries Bag
Tissues
Reading MaterialMedical
Anticipate your needs. Some items are much more costly abroad.

Birth Control/Condoms
Medications
First Aid Cream
Band Aids/Gazes
Diarrhea Medication
Laxatives
Daily Vitamin
Sleeping Pills
Aspirin/Advil/Tylenol
Immodium AD/Alka Seltzer/Pepto Bismo
Cold Capsules
Benadryl Itch Stopping Gel or Cream
Eye Drops
Motion Sickness Medication
Note: All medications should be kept in a carry-on bag. Do not check through with other luggage. Keep medications in original bottle.

Toiletries


Soap/Body Wash
Deodorant
Comb & Brush
Shampoo/Conditioner
Blow Dryer
Curling Iron or Curlers
Hair Gel/Oil/Spray (non-aerosol)
Hair Scarf/Scrunchies
Body Lotion
Chap Stick/Lip Balm/Vaseline
Make-Up/Remover/Moisturizer Lotion
Toothbrush/Toothpaste/Mouthwash Dental Floss (also great for fixing things)
Shower Cap
Q-tips/Cotton Balls/Rounds
Talcum Powder
Tissues
Insect & Mosquito Repellent
Sun Block/Suntan Lotion (SPF 15 or higher)
Sanitary Needs
Shaving Items
Extra Pair Eyeglasses/Contact Lenses/Eyeglasses Repair Kit Miscellaneous

Hand Sanitizer/Moisturizer Wipes
Liquid Soap
Disinfect Wipes (optional)
Flash Light (I prefer Maglite) A MUST
Night Light
Travel Clock (battery operated)
Travel Iron (optional)
Pen/Magic Marker/High Lighter
Note Pad/Post-It Notes
Umbrella (small)
Duct Tape/Crazy Glue
Luggage Locks/Cable Ties/Nail Clipper (to cut cable ties)
Camera/Water/Film/Memory Cards/Batteries
Camcorder
Sewing Kit/Safety Pins
Laundry Bag
Travel Blanket/Pillow
Binoculars
Earplugs
Air Freshener/Plug In Oil
iPod/MP3 Player/Mini-speakers
Laptop
Business Card with email address to give out to new friends (optional)
Extension Cord/Power Strip w/multiple plug-ins
220 Electrical converter (as needed)
Folding bag or Nylon duffel bag (for overnight stay or to use for additional gifts and purchases) Note: Film and batteries abroad are usually expensive. Bring plenty!

My last cruise I brought water in a collapsible cooler to last me for the whole cruise.

[SugarPlum]

I don't leave home with:

When traveling with a companion, I cross pack.


Essentials

To be carried with you

Tickets and Itinerary (3 copies - 1 pack in carry-on, 1 in checked luggage, and leave 1 copy with someone at home)
Passport/Visa
Driver’s License or State ID
Cell Phone and Charger (put the word ICE in front of the name to whom you would like emergency worker to contact In Case of Emergency = ICE)
Cash
Credit Card
Travelers & Personal Checks
Pre-Paid Phone Card
Address list (list of important contacts & numbers)/Address book
Medical Insurance Cards/Medical History (especially if traveling alone)
Copy of Prescriptions and list of all Medicines you are taking Note: Photocopy the inside page of your passport which includes photo and passport number. Keep it in your suitcase and at home.


Small Carry-on Bag for Each Person
No tweezers, or sharp instruments

Change of Clothing (for 2 or 3 days)
Medications
Toiletries Bag
Tissues
Reading MaterialMedical
Anticipate your needs. Some items are much more costly abroad.

Birth Control/Condoms
Medications
First Aid Cream
Band Aids/Gazes
Diarrhea Medication
Laxatives
Daily Vitamin
Sleeping Pills
Aspirin/Advil/Tylenol
Immodium AD/Alka Seltzer/Pepto Bismo
Cold Capsules
Benadryl Itch Stopping Gel or Cream
Eye Drops
Motion Sickness Medication
Note: All medications should be kept in a carry-on bag. Do not check through with other luggage. Keep medications in original bottle.

Toiletries


Soap/Body Wash
Deodorant
Comb & Brush
Shampoo/Conditioner
Blow Dryer
Curling Iron or Curlers
Hair Gel/Oil/Spray (non-aerosol)
Hair Scarf/Scrunchies
Body Lotion
Chap Stick/Lip Balm/Vaseline
Make-Up/Remover/Moisturizer Lotion
Toothbrush/Toothpaste/Mouthwash Dental Floss (also great for fixing things)
Shower Cap
Q-tips/Cotton Balls/Rounds
Talcum Powder
Tissues
Insect & Mosquito Repellent
Sun Block/Suntan Lotion (SPF 15 or higher)
Sanitary Needs
Shaving Items
Extra Pair Eyeglasses/Contact Lenses/Eyeglasses Repair Kit Miscellaneous

Hand Sanitizer/Moisturizer Wipes
Liquid Soap
Disinfect Wipes (optional)
Flash Light (I prefer Maglite) A MUST
Night Light
Travel Clock (battery operated)
Travel Iron (optional)
Pen/Magic Marker/High Lighter
Note Pad/Post-It Notes
Umbrella (small)
Duct Tape/Crazy Glue
Luggage Locks/Cable Ties/Nail Clipper (to cut cable ties)
Camera/Water/Film/Memory Cards/Batteries
Camcorder
Sewing Kit/Safety Pins
Laundry Bag
Travel Blanket/Pillow
Binoculars
Earplugs
Air Freshener/Plug In Oil
iPod/MP3 Player/Mini-speakers
Laptop
Business Card with email address to give out to new friends (optional)
Extension Cord/Power Strip w/multiple plug-ins
220 Electrical converter (as needed)
Folding bag or Nylon duffel bag (for overnight stay or to use for additional gifts and purchases) Note: Film and batteries abroad are usually expensive. Bring plenty!

My last cruise I brought water in a collapsible cooler to last me for the whole cruise.

[TEXAS SUNFLOWER]

Get underwater cameras if you're planning to snorkel! That was one of my last buys today. I'm on final countdown for our departure Saturday as well! I found ths to be of interest I found in another thread yesterday:

Here is a quote from, a soon to be Celebrity Cruiser....
Bring along your sense of humor - don't expect everything to be perfect.

Bring along an attitude that no matter what - you're on vacation and you're having a great time.

Bring along someone you love, a good book, suntan lotion and you've got the recipe for the time of your life!
__________________


Bon Voyage everyone! Travel safe to your port of call & have a wonderful trip!

[willowoodf]

Something I read on this board and couldn't live without - we bring a hanging "shoe rack" that we hang on the back of the bathroom door to put out toiletries in. It is SO handy. Everything you want is right there hanging on the back of the bathroom door. We bought ours at Wal-Mart and it isn't really for shoes, but I don't remember what it was called. It was where the hampers, laundry baskets, hangers, laundry bags, etc. are. There are many little pockets and I can emphasize greatly enough how handy this is.

And the Downey Spray, again, a necessity for freshening up clothing and getting out many wrinkles.

As for a nightlight, we just leave the bathroom light on and shut the door. Has worked for us.

Mary

[TEXAS SUNFLOWER]

Bring along your sense of humor - don't expect everything to be perfect.
Bring along an attitude that no matter what - you're on vacation and you're having a great time.
Bring along someone you love, a good book, suntan lotion and you've got the recipe for the time of your life!

The above quote was actually from Watchdiva, soon to be cruising the Norwegian Pearl. (I just wasn't quick enough to go back & edit it!)

bubbacat said:
Bring along a smiling face. Also, give everyone that serves you an extra dollar or so everytime that they give you a bill for drinks. It is not required but is very much appreciated! They work very hard and love being appreciated in this way!! :rolleyes:

[madelinerose]

Tried that once, but when I had to use the bathroom in the middle of the night and opened the door - My eyes, my eyes! Ouch!

Now I take a vanilla scented battery operated candle. Works like a charm and it's double duty - subtle air freshener and night light. ;)


We left the bathroom light on with the door closed all night, worked better than a night light would have.Enjoy your trip!

[OssieBear]

Get underwater cameras if you're planning to snorkel! That was one of my last buys today.

Depending on what you have for a camera, you can get underwater cases for them. I have a Canon digital and with the underwater case it takes clear pics, unlike the underwater disposables.

[MrSynystr]

Why would you need a DVD recorder? Just Curious?

[hammybee]

traveling coffee mug

[serendipity1499]

The above lists are very complete, however disagree on the Travel Iron or steamers....It is a fire hazard..You will not be permitted to use it on board..The Stewards have orders to remove all travel Irons...You will see that listed as a NO NO on HAL's WEB site..

Agree the duct tape is a must..One of our bags had a 6 inch rip right through the canvas...It happened in transit either by the airline, the ships porters or at the Hotel we were staying in at the end of our cruise..We unpacked & repaired the tear with the duct tape both inside & out..The bag held up for a few more trips, before we replaced it..

Also the poster who advised not to flush those Wipes even if stated flushable is absolutely correct..They clog up all Marine Toilets...It's no fun when they have to shut down the whole line of toilets because someone was careless..However suggest purchasing at your local supermarket "Hefty Scrap Bags" 50 in a box for approx $2.50...Very small opaque bags with self ties..Take enough of them to change twice daily & the steward will take the bag with everything you put into it both in the morning & evening..

The hanging shoe bag is worth it's weight in gold..I use ones with the clear pockets for all our incidentals..

Have a wonderful cruise :) Betty

[middle-aged mom]

On my next cruise, I'm traveling light, very light. How light, you may ask? I'm even ditching my husband and kids for 7 days. Woopeee!!

[sigmachibri]

Bring along your sense of humor - don't expect everything to be perfect.
Bring along an attitude that no matter what - you're on vacation and you're having a great time.
Bring along someone you love, a good book, suntan lotion and you've got the recipe for the time of your life!


This is the best piece of advice you could possibly give. forget everything else, you could always buy a replacement but if you forget to have a good time, you cant do it over.

[SakeDad]

I don't leave home without:

When traveling with a companion, I cross pack.


Essentials

To be carried with you

Tickets and Itinerary (3 copies - 1 pack in carry-on, 1 in checked luggage, and leave 1 copy with someone at home)
Passport/Visa
Driver’s License or State ID
Cell Phone and Charger (put the word ICE in front of the name to whom you would like emergency worker to contact In Case of Emergency = ICE)
Cash
Credit Card
Travelers & Personal Checks
Pre-Paid Phone Card
Address list (list of important contacts & numbers)/Address book
Medical Insurance Cards/Medical History (especially if traveling alone)
Copy of Prescriptions and list of all Medicines you are takingNote: Photocopy the inside page of your passport which includes photo and passport number. Keep it in your suitcase and at home.


Small Carry-on Bag for Each Person
No tweezers, or sharp instruments

Change of Clothing (for 2 or 3 days)
Medications
Toiletries Bag
Tissues
Reading MaterialMedical
Anticipate your needs. Some items are much more costly abroad.

Birth Control/Condoms
Medications
First Aid Cream
Band Aids/Gazes
Diarrhea Medication
Laxatives
Daily Vitamin
Sleeping Pills
Aspirin/Advil/Tylenol
Immodium AD/Alka Seltzer/Pepto Bismo
Cold Capsules
Benadryl Itch Stopping Gel or Cream
Eye Drops
Motion Sickness Medication
Note: All medications should be kept in a carry-on bag. Do not check through with other luggage. Keep medications in original bottle.

Toiletries

Soap/Body Wash
Deodorant
Comb & Brush
Shampoo/Conditioner
Blow Dryer
Curling Iron or Curlers
Hair Gel/Oil/Spray (non-aerosol)
Hair Scarf/Scrunchies
Body Lotion
Chap Stick/Lip Balm/Vaseline
Make-Up/Remover/Moisturizer Lotion
Toothbrush/Toothpaste/Mouthwash Dental Floss (also great for fixing things)
Shower Cap
Q-tips/Cotton Balls/Rounds
Talcum Powder
Tissues
Insect & Mosquito Repellent
Sun Block/Suntan Lotion (SPF 15 or higher)
Sanitary Needs
Shaving Items
Extra Pair Eyeglasses/Contact Lenses/Eyeglasses Repair KitMiscellaneous

Hand Sanitizer/Moisturizer Wipes
Liquid Soap
Disinfect Wipes (optional)
Flash Light (I prefer Maglite) A MUST
Night Light
Travel Clock (battery operated)
Travel Iron (optional)
Pen/Magic Marker/High Lighter
Note Pad/Post-It Notes
Umbrella (small)
Duct Tape/Crazy Glue
Luggage Locks/Cable Ties/Nail Clipper (to cut cable ties)
Camera/Water/Film/Memory Cards/Batteries
Camcorder
Sewing Kit/Safety Pins
Laundry Bag
Travel Blanket/Pillow
Binoculars
Earplugs
Air Freshener/Plug In Oil
iPod/MP3 Player/Mini-speakers
Laptop
Business Card with email address to give out to new friends (optional)
Extension Cord/Power Strip w/multiple plug-ins
220 Electrical converter (as needed)
Folding bag or Nylon duffel bag (for overnight stay or to use for additional gifts and purchases)Note: Film and batteries abroad are usually expensive. Bring plenty!

My last cruise I brought water in a collapsible cooler to last me for the whole cruise.


I'm showing this to ANYONE (especially DH!;) ) who ever says they think I over pack!!! :eek: :p

[aprilwaters]

This is my first cruise, but I am taking a pair of binnoculars:)

[innlady1]

Something I read on this board and couldn't live without - we bring a hanging "shoe rack" that we hang on the back of the bathroom door to put out toiletries in. It is SO handy. Everything you want is right there hanging on the back of the bathroom door. We bought ours at Wal-Mart and it isn't really for shoes, but I don't remember what it was called. It was where the hampers, laundry baskets, hangers, laundry bags, etc. are. There are many little pockets and I can emphasize greatly enough how handy this is.

And the Downey Spray, again, a necessity for freshening up clothing and getting out many wrinkles.

As for a nightlight, we just leave the bathroom light on and shut the door. Has worked for us.

Mary

That was the best tip I ever found on Cruise Critic!

[caribbean girl]

Hey all I first want to thank you all for the helpfull information, I am a cruise newbie and this board was a great find. Well I am Getting ready to pack now for my 3/31 Noordam. Doing it now because I work during the week. I have a list of things to bring and was wondering if anyone else has any tips..

Let me give you my list so far


power strip- heard there is only one outlet in room
fan - just something from home like the white noise
sun screen - take what I have hear will be cheaper then buying there spf 30
highlighters - to mark the activities to do on daily sheets
bars of soap - I know there is soap but I like mine
camcorder - too obviouse
aspirin - again im sure its cheaper here then there
Immodium - see above and a must have if your going to go on a looooong excursion, like a hike and also with trying food your not used to
tums - actually bought pepto tabs again cheaper here
baby wipes - a home comfort for the bathroom
clothespins - To hang clothes you hand wash and to from what ive read here to keep blinds closed on verenda
night light - cause its not kewl to wake up in the middel of the night and pee in a strange place
air freshner - just in case the room is stinky was debating on a plug in but then remembered the outlet shortage so I went with a glade orb thing
Lysol - I am a clean freak toilet and sink shower will be lysoled down
charger for cell phone - cause it would realy stink to have phone and forget this
post its and pen - to leave notes for room steward if necessary
detergent - to wash clothes buy hand ( put a little of liquid detergent in a small empty dish soap bottle )well lets see what other suggestions you pros have ?
what dont you leave home with out?


Thanks again
RD


I think I had two of the items you listed in my suitcase!!:eek: Have a great trip!

[konkrete kid]

1. Over the door shoe rack - holds oodles of stuff - no need to surch for things.
2. Duck tape - good for everything - even to cover blisters.
3. Travel mugs - cups in Lido small - such a good idea that a passenger who must have forgotten to bring his, decided to "lift" ours (back to the Lido and the little cups!).

Konkrete Kid

[Krazy Kruizers]

Purell for the bathroom.