What to Pack for a Family Caribbean Cruise

You would think bringing a set of walkie talkies sounds old fashion in this era of smartphones and free Wi-Fi. However, most cruise ships are still not providing free Wi-Fi onboard. You’ll have to pay a fee to get connected. Even if you pay, you’ll get slow and inconsistent internet. As for phone signal, there’s none at sea. If there is, you may face roaming charges.

The first on your list of things to pack if you have kids who can wander around the ship without supervision or if you are traveling with a large group is to get walkie talkies.

Don’t know what else to pack for your upcoming family Caribbean cruise? Here is Travelmath’s list of suggested things to bring:

1. Door magnets and décor

Did you know all cabin doors are similar in appearance? To avoid going to the wrong cabin, bring door magnets and personalized décor to decorate your cabin door. It’s also easier for the whole family to identify the cabin and makes the place homelier.

Door magnets come in handy too if you’re celebrating an anniversary or birthday. Decorate the door and make a grand celebration for mom or dad or the special birthday boy or girl.

2. Passports or U.S. permanent resident card

You must bring your passports for cruises that embark and disembark outside of the United States. It is also advisable to have your passport handy for a closed loop cruise (cruises that start and end at the same port) because some Caribbean islands will not allow passengers off the ship without their passports.

3. All types of toys including beach toys

Going on a Caribbean cruise means you’ll be going to the best beaches in the world with white and soft sandy beaches. Bring along beach toys to build sand castles, swimming aids for kids, inflatable beach balls and floats, and other beach accessories.

Families with younger children may want to bring along their kids’ favorite toys, sleep soothers, and games during downtime in the cabin.

4. Medication including seasickness remedies

Seasickness is unavoidable if you’re prone to having a problem when there is continuous motion. The good news is most cruise lines have larger ships with stabilizers that help the ship maintain balance while at sea. The lower decks and particularly the middle of the ship have the least movement in the cruise ship.

But be prepared with Dramamine, Sea-band and natural remedies like ginger and peppermint essential oils.

5. Essential accessories, shoes, and clothing

Besides the basic shorts, pants, t-shirts, shirts, shoes and dresses, here are a few items that will make your Caribbean cruise vacation even better:

• Sunglasses
• Swimwear
• Flip flops/water shoes
• Ponchos (in case it rains)
• Light jacket
• Walking/hiking shoes – if you plan to hike or go on a walking tour
• Formal night wear and smart casual wear - check with the cruise line about their dress code
• Sarong or cover-ups for the beach and at the pool
• Sun hats

6. Everyday items

You may want to bring these along to make your stay more comfortable:

• Water bottle
• Favorite books
• Sunscreen
• Natural hand sanitizers
• Laundry detergent if you plan to wash a few clothes
• Cash
• Beach bag – for the beach and at the pool
• Multi-outlet power strip – to charge your camera, smartphones, and walkie-talkies

7. Walkie talkies

Lastly, per Royal Caribbean:

Guests are also allowed to have two-way radios, more commonly known as walkie-talkies, for onboard personal communication. Basic specifications are as follows: Up to 10-mile coverage range, Up to 5 watts power, Internal Voice, Operated Transmission, No external mounting antenna.

Tips before you go on your next Caribbean cruise

1. Find the closest airport to the cruise port.

2. Read Handy Guide to the Five Cruise Ports in Florida.

3. Read How to Choose a Perfect Caribbean Cruise for Your Next Cruising Experience.

4. Read 5 Tips to Buying Cruise Travel Insurance.