Packing List for your Day in Port

One of the great aspects of a cruise vacation is having the opportunity to visit new places throughout the world. So when your cruise ship pulls into port you'll want to be prepared to make the most out of the time available ashore. Below is a packing list to help make sure you have everything you need to enjoy your day in port.

Day Pack - having a day pack is a big help to hold most of the things on this list and any small souvenirs you buy in port.

Daily Cruise Guide - make sure to bring the ship's daily cruise guide into port with you. It has important information including the local port agent's contact details and the times you need to be back at the ship to re-board before the ship leaves port.

Camera - of course you'll want to take pictures to record all those great memories.

Fully Charged Cell Phone - fully charge your cell phone the night before any port visit.

Identification - be sure to bring proper identification in the form of a passport and ship ID card. Your ship ID card will be required to get off and on the ship. A passport will be required to go through customs.

Shopping Money - there are always plenty of shops at most ports of call where they will be happy to take your money in exchange for souvenirs. Be sure to have either cash or a major credit card with your ID.

Correct Currency - if you plan on using cash in port, be sure to ask the ship's onboard guest relations desk if U.S. currency is accepted or if you need to do a foreign exchange to local currency.

Shore Excursion Tickets - if you purchased a cruise line sponsored shore excursion, make sure to pack the tickets into your daypack in a convenient spot for easy retrieval.

Prescription Medications - pack any prescription medications to last the entire port visit.

Bottled Water - many ports will have bottled water available for purchase, but again check with guest relations and be prepared to bring your own bottled water.

Appropriate Clothing - check the local weather forecast and dress in layered clothing accordingly.

The key to an enjoyable day in port is being prepared. This packing list is a great start, but since there are so many different cruise destinations and ports, it's important to do your own homework. Another great resource is the ship's guest relation's desk. The cruise staff should have experience or be educated on each of the ports and they will be happy to answer as many questions as you can think of.