What did you forget to bring that you really needed?

[Libragirl]

On several of our cruises where we packed really light, we have used the self serve laundrymat. The detergent was expensive. We might start bringing enough to do a couple of loads of wash. Dry detergent can be put in a baggie. (I would probably double bag it.)

Happy Cruising!!!

[cana57]

I have to remember to stick with my budget... traveling with DH husband in September. I can't wait to see the bar tab.... ugggh!!

[Libragirl]

Cana57,
My husband and I always try to stick to a budget, too. That way we get to go on more cruises!!!!


LOVE TO CRUISE!!

Libragirl (Mary)

[Pednurse]

We just returned from the Holiday and did not take shampoo because everyone said it would be there. Well it was not, none available in the gift shop, liquor store or beauty salon. GD happened to have a small bottle from a recent hotel stay. Also there were no hair dryers.

[cana57]

Absolutely take a hair dryer. The Carnival Imagination did not have hair dryers in this level ship but either way I always take mine because the dryers that are provided are usually not too powerful and I have thick hair. I'm surprised about the shampoo thing. Imagination did have samples in the gratis basket to use.

[gbos]

I will be taking my first cruise on Dec 31 on the Carnival Liberty.

I will be by myself.

How much money should I take with me?

[cana57]

I'm not a big drinker but I did have 3-4 drinks a day on the cruise be it liquor or water (almost as much as a drink refill $3), I bought some photos, my post-cruise excursion in Miami which I loved, a few photos and some liquor (a great deal on ships and better than in port) and I spent around $400 including port souvenirs and non ship excursions. Carnival Imagination May 4th (just a four-nighter). I'd budget a minimum of $500 if you have a full week cruise. The more ports you're stopping at increases the spending... Be sure you read all the helpful hints that you'll find on cruisemates. The more you do your homework, the better your cruise will be. When is your cruise and where are you going?

[Fern]

Hi gbos,

If you're putting all of your onboard charges on your credit card, you'll use your Sign and Sail card for almost everything you purchase onboard. You'll just need cash for the casino, extra tips (if you want), tips for your Carnival sponsored Shore Excursion guides, and purchases on shore.

We usually take $100.00 per day for the both of us and come back home with a lot of it !

[Pednurse]

I took a wide mouthed water bottle with me. Filled it with ice and water on the Lido deck. Saved a bunch over buying bottled water.

[Libragirl]

Pednurse,

I take a water bottle also. I fill it with water on the ship and take it off with me when we get to the ports. I usually don't have to buy water that way, unless it is really hot.

[gbos]

Cana57

I will be leaving Fla Dec 31 on the Carnival Liberity. I will be gone 6 days and we will hit Bahamas, Grand Caymans, and Mexico.

I just don't want to be caught short.

[danacline]

Most Carnival ships have ATMs, but be aware that they're empty by mid week or so...

I usually take about $500 or so, but generally don't use all of it. Make sure you distribute it to several hiding places, and don't put _any_ in your checked baggage.

Dana

[gbos]

When I travel overseas I normally convert all my cash into American Express Travelers Checks.

Not totally safe but safer then cash. I was also going to take one credit card.

[Fern]

Hi gbos,

If you're going to be using your credit card for your onboard charges be aware that they'll put a "hold" on your card for a certain amount. Also, be sure to call your credit card company(s) to tell them you'll be out of the country.

I'd take two cards if I were you. One for the onboard charges and another for onshore purchases.

I know some people take Traveler's Checks, but then you have to go to the Purser's Office to cash them which can be a pain if there's a long line.

Like danacline, we distribute our cash in different places in our luggage and on ourselves !

[criscomia]

I'm writing all these ideas down on my packing list............oh, my God.....I'm going to need a steamer trunk to pack all these good ideas in for my next cruise.

[gbos]

Fern

Thats a good Idea. I will notify my CC company and take both of my cards with me.

I am trying to prepay as many charges as possible so I won't have to worry about it. I should have the cruise paid off by October. That way I can save enough blow money for the trip

[Libragirl]

gbos,

I agree with cana57 about reading all the helpful hints on Cruisemates. I wish I had known about CM when I took my first cruise. I had a great time, but I would have been much better prepared if I had been reading this site.

Have a wonderful cruise!

Libragirl (Mary)

[gbos]

My cruise is not unitl Dec 31 but as you can see I am all over the message boards.

They have been very helpful.

[punk]

!! I have just read thru every post here and copied down all good ideas! Love the nitelite suggestion - hadn't thought of that!

[Libragirl]

Punk,

There have been many great suggestions. I, too, have gotten some terrific ideas about what to take on my next cruise.

Libragirl

[Libragirl]

I recently went to Walmart and bought a fish license holder. The sign and sail card, a credit card, and a little money fit in it just fine. It is water-proof and was suggested by someone on CM. I have already packed it in my luggage so I'll have it for my next cruise. (Sept. 25)

HAPPY CRUISING!!!!!

Libragirl (Mary)

[lisa tberry]

Hangers!
They never seem to have enough.

Oh! My own pillow!!

[Libragirl]

I, too, always take extra hangers. The ones they provide are awkward to use. :o

[daaling]

Originally Posted by rescuedad

mstill, Us men do that stuff on purpose so it no longer becomes our responsibility. You may have won the battle that day but you lost the war! OL another win for the men!!

Forgot the nightlight. I like to read myself to sleep and at 2am all were asleep when I came in and had no light to read by!

Clothing List...have made one off my 'puter..his and hers all in one..4 to a page...day, date, sea/port...day/night wardrobe..top..bottoms..neckware..jewelry/handbag/shoes..I do a dry run of dress for the day on my rolling rack..fill out form..put jewelry in ziplok..attatch to hanger w/clothes pin or put in plastic shoebox for carry-on. clip lists apart add tio zip lok..this helps u remeber all to pack..and the age old question from hubby.".Honey, What am i wearin"..he loves it..2 cruises coming up one in 2 wks on Mobile/Holiday..9/30

[amaretto]

Nothing!

Carnival has everything I need.

[Will]

Can spray starch

[buffetfan2004]

haven't forgotten it but like to pack:
We use colored cable ties to secure all our suitcase locks, and pack many more for returntrip. It gives that extra sense of secuirty, can be opened by security. Just be sure to bring the clippers outside (carryon.)
I also mention colored as TSA security if they search bag will replace cable ties with clear white type and should leave a note. That way I know if my bag was opened or not.

[Libragirl]

I'm taking a small fan on our next cruise. Our room on the Glory was warmer than we like it. We had them check it, but it didn't help much. I sleep much better when I am cool.

[buffetfan2004]

Originally Posted by Libragirl

I'm taking a small fan on our next cruise. Our room on the Glory was warmer than we like it. We had them check it, but it didn't help much. I sleep much better when I am cool.

While we did not have one, I noticed many interior rooms having stand up rotating fans. I think upon boarding request a fan at pursers desk. You could also ask room steward, but that way you have both options covered.

[SUSAN CURTIS]

Libragirl, what to share your list?