I 100% agree on bringing glasses. The main problem with contact lenses is that they don't hold enough beer.

@adotintheshark4848

4 ай бұрын

Beer hell, it's mixed drinks for me on the cruises!

@mereese1

4 ай бұрын

Funny 😂

@blargblarg5657

4 ай бұрын

Well, that would explain the funny looks.

@sassey80l

25 күн бұрын

😂

I was happy to learn that you are also a fellow Sci-fi / Star Trek fan. Live long and prosper, Gary!

On another You Tube channel about cruising, they suggested bringing magnets because the walls are metal. We started doing this, and it saves so much space! Also, you can use them for all of the papers you get, which saves on clutter! Magnets with hooks are great for hanging up lanyards and bags, hats, etc, especially when you're in your stateroom!

@poutinenator

9 ай бұрын

I am a forgetful person. The magnets and the lanyard with a pouch are a must for me. Everything is in my face.

@WilliamMurphy-uv9pm

9 ай бұрын

Just be xcareful getting your magnets too close to electronic gadgets, especially ones eith memory cards . Such devices are useless if their operating systems are lost and photos go missing.

@kirkanos771

4 ай бұрын

@@WilliamMurphy-uv9pm So 1999. It's been a long time since storage devices were magnetic sensitive. Nand, sticks, memory cards dont care.

@WilliamMurphy-uv9pm

4 ай бұрын

@@kirkanos771 True. But don't lots of devices still have physical spinning hard drives that are affected by magnets.

@kirkanos771

4 ай бұрын

@@WilliamMurphy-uv9pm Yes but you dont carry spintronic electronics in your bag on vacation, LMAO.

When I traveled for work, I always took Pepto-Bismo tablets. After day two or three I would take one a day and found that it kept me from intestinal discomfort from changes in the local water. Also, I took an eyeglass repair kit and a sewing kit. both came in handy over the years and take up minimum room.

@pennybaxter4

8 ай бұрын

100% that’s first to go in my medicine bag.

@lindapescatore

7 ай бұрын

I've gotten sewing kits from the steward. Also I noticed he had several plug adapters to lend out.

Fancy shoes. I used to bring some very nice shoes - they take up way to much room and now just bring nice sandals or a plain black pair that can double for other functions

@tipsfortravellers

9 ай бұрын

Yes !!!

@steveross129

9 ай бұрын

I found some all-black canvas casual shoes that are good enough for more dressy times but work well for most walks as well.

@jmace1957

9 ай бұрын

@@steveross129 Yes I bought black walking shoes with black soles and I wear them with slacks at dinner

@jenbrooks5872

9 ай бұрын

I do the same. A nice pair of sandals look great with that dressy black dress or your Jean shorts! I no longer bring heels.

@a.corsiglia

9 ай бұрын

I bring nice shoes, but I wear them during travel and then a casual shoe that isn't too bulky.

QUESTION Gary, could you please talk about how you buy your mobile and internet services when you travel to all these multiple countries? Could you talk about what apps or esims you buy or use and explain how you manage mobile and internet connectivity. Thank you. No one explains this in a way anyone can understand, you always seem to make things easier for the Leyman to understand. Thank you so much. 🙏🏻

Excellent video. For my first twenty years of cruising I enjoyed formal nights and brought along all the necessary attire. Now I don't. The suitcase is lighter and smaller, and I no longer choose larger tables in the dining room where I might feel I wan't doing my part. I now leave my laptop at home and bring my iPad and iPhone. I bring along enough clothes so I don't have to do laundry or pay for it. I bring along my own shampoo and soap until I'm sure the ship's products are ok. I bring along a small money clip to hold local and US cash, one credit card, ship card and a copy of my passport for shore excursions, along with a tiny umbrella that has kept me dry many times. And I bring along a collapsable cane just in case old age and mobility issues catch up with me.

Stopped packing jewelry except for what I’m wearing which is everyday stuff. Not even any costume jewelry.

In addition to the items in your First Aid Kit…Tweezers, Q-tip Ear Buds, Small Scissors, Nail Clippers, Small Sewing Kit, Small Safety Pins, Thermometer.

@PineGeri

5 ай бұрын

And…tooth repair kit just in case a crown comes off…

@LibbyRal

5 ай бұрын

he mentioned that @@PineGeri but fixodent works much better.

I totally agree with you about the phone. A word of caution; my wife had hers stolen at our departure port in Chile. We were able to replace it at a significant cost and inconvenience before beginning the cruise. I suggest keeping and bringing your old phone on a trip as a spare. If the new one is lost, you at least have all of your apps and access to your photo library and Wi-Fi even if you can’t transfer your cell service to the old phone. We bought a spare SIM card for our iPhones so if either is lost, we can activate the SIM and continue using our service.

@2000konnie

9 ай бұрын

Do you know how the phone was stolen?

@Paul-GrnHil

9 ай бұрын

@@2000konnie yes. She had it in her hand while walking on the sidewalk and 2 guys on a small motorbike came up on the sidewalk behind us and the passenger grabbed it out of her hand and sped off. We are seasoned travelers but this was a new one for us. It happened in Santiago Chile.

@2000konnie

9 ай бұрын

@@Paul-GrnHil That's terrible. I'm sorry you guys had that experience. I recently watched a video by a seasoned traveler who had his watch stolen off his wrist by an organized motorbike team in Barcelona. He's about 6'3" and in good shape, but was no match for the thieves on the small motorbike.

@rgarrettphoto

9 ай бұрын

@@Paul-GrnHilit happens a lot. Gary talks about being vigilant with personal items in foreign ports. The Caribbean is an example where American's often feel comfortable, because it feels like home, but actually has a high theft rate. I travel with a PACSAFE pack that locks and deters pick pockets. I also try to keep my phone away unless I need it. Alas, having it swiped by a moving motorcycle thief is a little difficult to avoid. Thankfully, most phones are useless without the passcode - iPhone enable you to use the camera without unlocking it, which at least protects the data on the phone if swiped.

@chrispnw2547

9 ай бұрын

100% agree. Phones are so critical to travel as they store important documents, credit cards, etc. Once I board the plane/ship, I secure my primary phone and switch to my 'travel phone'. It contains one credit card and is encrypted (should it be lost). It has a separate travel data plan for navigations and wireless calling. As you suggested, losing a critical phone can really put a dark cloud on what should be a fun time.

I still absolutely pack a lanyard. Women's clothes rarely have pockets and, if they do, they're often too shallow to safely put the card. I don't carry a handbag either.

@tipsfortravellers

9 ай бұрын

Good point !!!!!!

@CrankyBeach

5 ай бұрын

On my most recent cruise (a year ago) I encountered something new. On all my prior cruises the folks at the front desk would, if asked, punch a hole in the ship card so it could be hung from a lanyard. On NCL a year ago the front desk person said punching a hole would deactivate the card. She gave us the last 2 plastic see-through badge holders in her drawer. So... can't speak for other cruise lines, but if you're traveling on NCL and want to use a lanyard, bring a badge holder for your ship card. The ship card is not the only reason we use lanyards. All of our cruises have been full charter rock 'n' roll cruises with assigned main theater seating for the headliners' shows. We are issued a larger plastic card that lists our VIP (or not) status, a color code that tells us which group we are in for the main theater headliner shows, and our assigned seat numbers. I think it also has our cabin number printed on it. The charter company provides lanyards for these and we have to show them at the main theater entrances (to prove we're not trying to sneak in when it's not our night to see the show).

@set921

15 күн бұрын

My last HAL cruise had in-room safes that needed swiping with a card with a strip. They recommended not using your room card. Now I need a pouch for my room card and a card for my safe. Dumb.

One thing I now pack, after being quarantined, is my own COVID tests. The one thing I no longer pack is liquids. A soap bar, a shampoo bar, a lotion bar, toothpaste tablets, Off mosquito towelettes, deodorant towelettes, sunscreen sticks, solid ChapStick, anti-bacterial wipes-all TSA approved. No more liquids bag.

@kazaabitboll2026

9 ай бұрын

They are reversing the 100 ml airline restriction soon I hear

@AndreasAntics

9 ай бұрын

My Achilles heel is face creams. I have super sensitive skin and I have certain products I use and when I don’t my face goes haywire. 😟

@cherifurr3935

9 ай бұрын

I’ve never heard of toothpaste tablets! I also pack Covid tests.

@cherifurr3935

9 ай бұрын

@@kazaabitboll2026Haven’t heard that, but it would be good!

@pdallen5801

8 ай бұрын

Are shampoo and lotion bars available on Amazon? Sounds like a great idea!

One of the most useful items I ever brought on a cruise was a plastic water bottle with a wide neck. I stuffed socks and underwear in a plastic ziplock, then put them inside it to save space. On the cruise ship we could fill it with ice then add water. Kept cool all day in port, and on sea days we always had something cold to drink right beside us. Would definitely pack one again, especially for hot weather.

@Elderly-Marian-in-UK

7 ай бұрын

That wouldn't work for me. I need to sit in the water to soak myself clean. I think your idea would cause splashed water all over the floor and no way to soak. Thanks anyway. X

@truepeacenik

5 ай бұрын

@@Elderly-Marian-in-UK Errr, they mean a drinking bottle to drink from. Not as a portable shower.

Because you mentioned it in a previous video, I brought a tooth repair kit on my TransPacific repositioning cruise. I was surprised at how small it was, and, while I didn't need it, it now has a permanent place in my small "just in case bag" along with my eye glasses repair kit, and a tiny flashlight.

@eirabish7980

9 ай бұрын

Great idea, will look for one, not sure where to buy maybe on line.

@smoothsketch

9 ай бұрын

I never thought of a tooth repair kit, sounds like a very good idea

@birdbrain7527

8 ай бұрын

Great advice, thanks. In the UK we have Dentek and Toofypegs emergency kits on sale in chemists. I've had fillings break on two holidays now and the Dentek kit worked really well, Toofypegs less well 🦷👍

@margaretgooderham491

8 ай бұрын

Not sure I’ve ever seen a tooth repair kit, but think a glasses repair kit is brilliant and will have to go on the prowl for both.

@truepeacenik

5 ай бұрын

@@eirabish7980most US pharmacies carry them, usually with either oral pain topicals, or by the denture cleaning tools. They usually hang like a toothbrush.

Simple I know but often overlooked, I always bring some form of ChapStick as my lips always seem to be so dry in the sea air.

@tipsfortravellers

9 ай бұрын

Yes! Good tip 👍🏻

@kathyhorstman7909

5 ай бұрын

Oh, gosh, yes. Next time, I'm taking a spare tube or two. I mislaid the one tube I packed last time, and all they had in the onboard shop was a fancy-schmancy brand they were selling for over $14 a stick. Thank heaven I found mine in the pocket of a dress 👗 I'd worn earlier on my holiday.

One item we pack for every cruise is a couple of white board markers. Usually the thin ones that are just bigger than a felt tip pen in dark colors. You can then use the cabin mirror as a note board and erase it with a tissue or an old sock.

@visitingfromsantafe1329

8 ай бұрын

We use sticky notes for the same purpose.

@glenncamp733

7 ай бұрын

Great advice!

Hi Gary - a note of big thanks for all your videos. Call us ignorant (yup), but my wife and I have NEVER been on any cruise as all the advertisements I ever saw were for the monster party boats with water slides and screaming passengers having "fun" while they drank too much and rode bumper cars and climbed up climbing walls and.....everything we want NOTHING to do with as 60 somethings. We subscribed as we got interested in the European river cruises as a much calmer, interesting alternative. But then KZread's algorithm sent me a link to one of your videos on the Queen Mary 2 transAtlantic voyages and oh my, this is what we've been looking for - we didn't know these voyages still existed in the jet age! So thank you! Now we're waiting for the 2025 summer cruise schedule to drop so we can schedule one and pick our cabin, probably Britannia Club.

@tipsfortravellers

9 ай бұрын

That is so great to hear! Thanks for watching and so pleased to hear the channel is a help !

@loveboatcruising

9 ай бұрын

I’m old fashioned and love sailing to Hawaii from San Francisco round trip. Great sea days, an older crowd and great food, entertainment and relaxation.

@TheOnlyLilithcat

9 ай бұрын

My first cruise was a transatlantic crossing on the QM2, and I truly appreciated the formality and calm. We did Britannia Club, and even though the cabin is the same as the Britannia Balcony, there is definitely something to be said for having the same table and server. They get to know your likes and dislikes, and really take care of you. Highly recommend!

@Jsfrog

9 ай бұрын

@@TheOnlyLilithcat Excellent! Thanks for that recommendation. We also like the fact that you can eat at any time of your choosing. Plus priority embarkation/disembarkation, whatever that means! :-)

@Jsfrog

9 ай бұрын

@@loveboatcruising Neat! What cruise line?

I always have Dramamine, Imodium, hand sanitizer, your dental repair kit, band-aids, antibacterial lotion, ear plugs, a universal adapter, extra charging cords, and keep copies of my passport and cruise documents on my iPhone. Don’t pack as many fancy clothes and shoes!

One addition that I always pack to medical bag is blister plasters.

Thanks Gary! Right on point. It seems with each cruise I pack less and less except my medicine, first aid and passport. One important item is real paper printout of cruise travel summary in case there are mistakes. It includes flights, transfers, lodging etc. booked with cruise line in case you need to prove what you paid for. I like to totally disconnect on a cruise, but love my little sound machine with ocean sounds when I have an inside cabin.

I bring a pillowcase from home instead of an entire pillow

You can skip taking along an eyeglass-repair kit. When they are not busy, the staff of the jewelry shop onboard are delighted to screw your glasses back together, and they have all the necessary tiny tools. Also you don’t need a white noise machine to go to sleep. If you have an Internet package, there a hundreds of KZread videos of flowing water, ocean waves etc. If no Internet, you can probably download a favorite calming video to your photos app, before your cruise, and just play it without Internet.

@terry_willis

4 ай бұрын

ear plugs

I'm a photogtographer and your spot on about the cameras. If your on a budget check out the Sony ZV1 or Canon PowerShot series point-n-shoots. I got a multi port charging hub to avoid the power strip issue. I also started packing a self contained toiletries bag so I don't have to remember to pack form the bathroom at the last minute and then forget. I'm definitely going to get tooth repair and mouth gel into my bag, that is a fantastic suggestion. Oh, that reminds me to check expiration dates of things in my med / 1st Aid bag. Learned some new things today, thanks.

@roundandroundmyworld

9 ай бұрын

One thing about the phone vs camera for anyone who's getting on and perhaps getting a bit shaky (I am) -- it's far easier to hold a small camera steady while pressing a shutter button than to hold a phone steady while tapping the screen. Biggest reason I stick with my Power Shot which has a good optical zoom lens with digital zoom enhancement available -- very useful in landscape photography, one of my favourite kinds.

@kylasbibi

9 ай бұрын

My husband uses his canon power shot and I phone. Great little camera

As usual, you give some excellent, sound advice! I always pack a smallish, foldable or otherwise collapsible piece of baggage in which I can carry home certain items I’ve purchased.

AirTags are essential and entertaining. We got to see one of our suitcases leave the terminal and go to the airport without us! Fortunately we were able to find the suitcase the people left behind and contact them, but still, we would have been upset with the cruise line instead of the true perpetrators if we had not had the air tag.

@Lufu2

8 ай бұрын

Your story is funny and I am glad you did not have a serious issue or loss. You've convinced me that I should invest in them as well. Thank you for sharing.

@VoiceoverMomentum

7 ай бұрын

I just got my new AirTags. Looking forward to using them as I cruise

@barbarabrown7153

7 ай бұрын

Similar thing happened to us. We pack AirTags for all our trips.😊

@yeeaahhzz

5 ай бұрын

Make your luggage obvious and obnoxious looking is the other LPT

@erickaltenbach7235

4 ай бұрын

We were sitting at our airplanes gate and I decided to check on our bags via the airtags app. The app showed that our bags were 480 miles away. It took me a moment to realise that our bags went ahead on an earlier flight. We laughed at ourselves and then we were happy that our bags would be waiting for us at the arrival airport. Saved us time for not waiting for them on the luggage claim belt when they were actually at the customer service counter. Definitely piece of mind.

I bring laundry sheets - they look like dryer sheets. They weigh nothing, and there’s no chance of spillage.

@WilliamMurphy-uv9pm

3 ай бұрын

The small dry pods are OK, too. I know people don't where to put a pod. Just drop it in the drum before or after adding clothes. Don't know if the combo sheets that were both for wash and softener in the dryer still exist but they were easy to put in a Ziploc baggie.

I've quit bringing binoculars on cruises as of about 6 years ago, although I DO bring a GoPro for documenting snorkeling and snuba excursions. One thing that I always bring now is a small string backpack, for use on and off the ship. I use it for carrying sunblock, small towel, spillproof tumbler, rashguard, medicines, and other small items.

Having your Rx's in the bottle doesn't really mean anything as anyone can put any pill in any bottle, and the bottles take up a lot of room. What IS important, however, and what we always do is have a sheet of paper (or two) with all of the Rx and OTC labels from all of our pills attached (and covered with clear packing tape for waterproofing). The numbers stamped/imprinted on the pills will match the numbers on the labels and that's all you need. We also always have a print out of our medical histories which includes all medications we are taking.

@nancyruckman5875

9 ай бұрын

I just line up all of my pills bottle and take a picture of them before I leave for my cruise.

@Signs9

2 ай бұрын

@@nancyruckman5875 I like this idea

I recently took a cruise with only a carry on case. Only 5 nights. And, do you know, nobody noticed that I wore the same trousers every night with a different top. Nobody is interested. Wear whatever suits you!

@dsvance1

7 ай бұрын

I'm picky about the dress code, but I don't care if somebody wears the same nice outfit every night of the entire cruise. I would much prefer that to somebody wearing a different too casual jeans/shorts/t-shirt for each night. I tend to make my own wardrobe, and I line almost everything. For travel outfits, I'll make things reversible instead of lining them. I can also take components to put together various iterations of formal wear. Maybe a few women might notice, but they'll be the ones doing the same sort of thing and we'd probably meet up and discuss strategy. Oh, the joys of sewing and designing my own clothes . . .

Every time I see a young person in a luggage shop, buying one of those LARGE suitcases, I have to stop myself from telling them to put it back and go get the mid size one. I remember the days trying to luge around that huge suitcase without wheels!

@anitaclue9868

9 ай бұрын

Not so young here and made that mistake😂 currently shopping for more practical size

@philiprice7875

Ай бұрын

i was shocked when i learnt that we walked on the moon before putting wheels on a suitcase

Hi Gary, we have found a very useful item to bring - a motion detecting nightlight. Magnetically sticks to any wall, usb chargeable and so useful when getting up in the night to the bathroom. No need to switch on lights which may disturb others in the cabin or blunder around in pitch dark.

@cherifurr3935

9 ай бұрын

I just use my phone flashlight!

@samuelcollins1331

8 ай бұрын

We use tiny Wedding Cake votive battery candles for night lighting especially in the bathroom.

@kellybowe354

5 ай бұрын

Us too!

@samuelcollins1331

5 ай бұрын

@@cherifurr3935 do you leave it on all night? Or. Use it as a.flashlight when you move about! The Tea Lights are on all night placed here and there,,,

@geoffreystone1598

5 ай бұрын

HAL has a light under the fridge that comes on at night when someone walks in the cabin. Saves bringing one.

I also bring ginger candy…with ginger root not just ginger flavor. I use these rather than Dramamine proactively throughout the sea days. A small white noise machine for drowning out background noise at night. Neosporin plus pain relief. …in a single ointment. I use this ointment regularly when I cut myself plus the pain relief part allows you to carry on without accompanying pain. I would also like to add that Royal Caribbean has recently put tasteful notices on their deck chairs not to reserve them and that that items left will be taken to the towel station. This has helped immensely with people coming out on deck early in the AM and reserving a group of chairs for the whole day. Many times these chairs are not even used by the people reserving them. I found this to be true on at least Wonder of the Seas, last month. I hope the other cruise lines follow suit. I spoke with an officer and he agreed that it is not a perfect solution but has helped a lot with the problem.

@bevparada114

4 ай бұрын

I put an app on my phone that will do the white noise (or other soothing sounds), thereby eliminating another device. :)

I always take a non-slip mat to put in the shower. I have mobility issues and that includes being unsteady in the shower if the shower base is even a little bit slippery.

@carolenglish3984

Ай бұрын

A good thing is to cut the mat into 2 “foot” size pieces. Works a treat and is less cumbersome.

Great 😂List of items❤🎉. In an emergency, no electricity 🔌.. a must: flashlight && 🔦🔦 extra batteries.

I was so glad to see how stocked your first aid kit was. The only thing I make sure I have in mine that you don't is a small thermometer, we started bringing it when we had kids who were too young to say how sick they might be (and its still definetly more important for them) but its nice to just be able to quickly check if anyone isn't feeling 100%. I think my wife thinks I'm nuts for bringing as many medications and things as I do but it's proved invaluable so many times it's worth the bit of room it takes up in my bag. Also since we've had kids having medications for them has been super important because you never know what's going to be available if you need it because they can't just take any over the counter medications.

@redhatbear1135

9 ай бұрын

I take a better first aid kit when going to “lesser” countries. I’m overnight in Egypt so I’m hoping it will fit! Yep I have a close to small expedition first aid kit I used wilderness camping. The only thing I’ve added is a steri pen! It doesn’t go on all trips, it depends on length of trip and how developed some of the areas are.

@sct4040

9 ай бұрын

I learned the hard way when hubby became ill on our 7 day cruise. I now pack OTC medications, rubs, tiger balms, etc on every vacation.

@AndreasAntics

9 ай бұрын

I bring a thermometer too and I need to remember to bring plastic covers… we tend to both get sick at the same time

@redhatbear1135

9 ай бұрын

@@AndreasAntics alcohol wipes?

@AndreasAntics

9 ай бұрын

@@redhatbear1135 I want to use both! 😆

Very good video, as usual; most helpful. One other thing we always pack these days is a box of COVID-19 tests. Just in case someone feels ill, we can at least test ourselves right away.

@1111atreides

9 ай бұрын

Do you still trust those things?

@paulabroadway1697

9 ай бұрын

A test is only as good as what you can do with the information it gives. @@ In this case, don't bother.

@donnaschuepbach3830

9 ай бұрын

I always take two covid tests. If I don't feel great, I want to know if I need to isolate.

@madlenyoung2472

9 ай бұрын

@@donnaschuepbach3830 Thank you.....that's why I take along tets also. For my own peace of mind AND in consideration of other passengers.

@donnaschuepbach3830

9 ай бұрын

@@madlenyoung2472 Exactly!

Some must haves for me are an over the door pocket shoe organizer for toiletries, battery operated votive candle lights for nightlights so you don't have to take your phone with you to the bathroom, some kind of luggage identifier on my suitcase to pick out my bag a mile away anywhere 😉 and most importantly my "don't sweat the small stuff, everything is small stuff (barring personal tragedy), a sense of humor and CONSIDERATION for others, people!!! ❤❤❤ You are not an island. 🌴🌴🌴

I never thought I’d be able to sleep with ear plugs and when my GF brought some I thought they wouldn’t be very useful. I was on an MSC cruise a few weeks ago and while in port, they had a dance party on the pool deck until 4am! I was so mad. I put the ear plugs in and I’ll tell you I went to sleep in 10 minutes. Turns out, it’s a lot easier to sleep with ear plugs than loud dance music lol add another check mark in the “win” column for my GF!

@CrankyBeach

5 ай бұрын

I first "discovered" earplugs when I shared hotel rooms with friends at sci-fi conventions back in the 1980s. One frequent roommate snored loud enough to rattle the rafters. Interestingly, the earplugs didn't completely block the noise, but it reduced it to a level where I didn't care, and was able to sleep just fine. Now, I never travel without at least a couple of pairs. Even if I don't have a snoring companion, places away from home always have different ambient noises that we're not used to and thus can keep us awake.

We did bring magnet clips to put papers on our walls. We used the clips to hang our sunhats or lanyards or just to hang a dress or scarf. I was on a knitting cruise that was transatlantic and the clips were invaluable as organizers.

@1111atreides

9 ай бұрын

What's a knitting cruise?

@PamelaVMason

9 ай бұрын

@@1111atreides knitting and crochet cruises are a Thing! Designers and yarn manufacturers or suppliers all get together and offer cruises with classes and dedicated excursions.

@1111atreides

9 ай бұрын

Are there other "niche" cruises? Like what would cater to my esoteric hobbies? Are there underwater basketweaving cruises? What about collectors of thrift store treasure cruises? I'M IN!!!@@PamelaVMason

Using your 'checklist' has been so helpful. We've always appreciated your suggestions for a first aid kit and prepare a kit for all of our cruises. Instead of bringing prescription bottles, pharmacies in Canada will prepare monthly 'pill packs' that stipulate all medication including daily dosages. Thank you for suggesting Drop Box, which we will be using on our next cruise. Great tips Gary for our upcoming 35-day HAL cruise. Now all I have to do, is reduce the amount of clothing I traditionally bring.

@rbrachmann

9 ай бұрын

Same here. That check list Gary published a while ago has been very helpful. So much so that I also use it for my land tours. 1 month in Italy and Sicily made much better with the list.

@michaelt2961

8 ай бұрын

By some chance, is your 35 day HAL cruise begins next July 20th - Aug 24th?

@rbrachmann

8 ай бұрын

I use your list for all my travels. Makes my life so much simpler.

Excellent “what to bring on a cruise” list! And I would add a small sewing kit, as it takes up no real space and could be useful.

@kimbucha2949

6 ай бұрын

I made my own sewing kit that fits in a Altoids mint container. I did a KZread search for clever ideas. Now it goes everywhere with me!

HI Gary, 17 days out for my first cruise at 53 and i am cramming you video's. Thank you for recognising this niche for travelers. Regards Shane

I have a few safety pins in with my first aid kit which came in handy when I lost a button.

I agree with packing a good first aid kit.I also include in addition to imodium an antigas medication since eating alot of rich foods can upset your digestive system.I actually did experince losing a crown on the first night of a cruise and surely could have used a repair kit whichI now keep in my kit as well. Thank you for all your wonderful tips and happy cruising🚢🚢

I always bring a salty, crunchy snack. Most of the time you can't find potato chips or similar on a ship. A big bag of Chex mix or chips or great for a snack while getting changed, watching TV or having a beer in your room in the afternoons.

Whilst I appreciate your video, I cruise as a treat and will continue to choose a line that Does like and adhere to formal nights. I am fed up with seeing people on a day to day basis looking like they just can’t be bothered. I certainly cannot cruise very often so love the dressing up part. I also appreciate that many cruise lines are moving to a more relaxed level of dressing but there should be choices that we can all pick from.

@ck121075

7 ай бұрын

You can dress up anytime for any event. That’s the choice. It sounds like you are a bit too worried about other people. They also have a right to dress as they wish on their vacation. So please take your attitude and desire to control others and throw it right off the ship. Everyone has a right to dress the way they want on their vacation and the fact that formal nights are changing indicates that most people do t want to participate in formal night.

@printer5518

7 ай бұрын

@@ck121075- The man said he appreciated the relaxed dress code, but preferred more formal attire. If you can’t control your emotions, and are easily triggered then maybe reading the comments isn’t for you.

@annettewalker415

7 ай бұрын

​@ck121075 you may be correct, but plenty of us see enough slobs on a daily basis. People should at least make a small effort to not look like they just rolled out of bed. (Unless on Carnival.)

@dsvance1

7 ай бұрын

@@ck121075 Speaking of attitude, maybe check your own. I definitely see where Jacqueline is coming from. Yes, I love to dress up. But in today's world, there aren't many opportunities bc people have taken "casual" to absurd lengths. I'm so tired of jeans. And I'm really tired and strongly dislike leggings worn as pants. I don't need nor want to see other women's butts. Nothing wrong with my own butt, yet it's not on public display. Yes, I can "look away", but sure as I do, there's another butt there. Everywhere anyone looks, women have their butts on display. Yeah, it's cute on a slender woman under 30. Most of us don't fit that criteria, and it looks terrible. A dress code puts an end to that nonsense. And the entire atmosphere of the venue changes when folks dress up. Yes, there should be a choice -- dress code cruises for those who want them, and dress code free cruises for those who wanna look like they dressed out of the laundry hamper with no thought.

@gloriacastillo2898

7 ай бұрын

I never laughed so much reading replies to Gary's great video. You guys are hilarious. Lighten up.

I often wonder if there is a connection with the rise in bad behavior on cruise ships and the relaxation of rules like dress codes? I know there are studies that show better behavior by children in schools with uniforms than in those without. I know the behavior in Las Vegas was better before they started the “what happens in Vegas…” ad campaign. Maybe an unintended consequence of the overly casual and permissive lifestyle?

I do bring a few zip lock bags as well as a highlighter( I did see you using one in this video).. and You gave me a chuckle with the arm full of wine bottles.. lol.

My wife is the photographer in the family. We recently bought a variety of lenses for the iPhone that upgrades the iPhone for all types of pictures. Much easier to carry than a full size camera and the quality is excellent.

This was like my own personal checklist! To the medical kit, I would add ear drops - my husband and daughters dive, and we've had to use that occasionally. I purchased a non-surge extension cord for my CPAP machine - the ship provided distilled water for it. I still bring my little Nikon, as it has 60x optical zoom, but haven't used the camera with interchangeable lens for years. I also always have a photocopy of my passport which I keep in my suitcase - just in case I lose the original, it speeds up the replacement process. Finally, there is a piece in the Canadian news at the moment about people who lost their trip because they didn't know that some countries require passports that are valid for 3-6 months beyond your arrival date. This is where a travel agent comes in handy! They know all the details and fine print! Love your videos, Gary!

I can appreciate not needing heavy camera equipment, but as an amateur photographer I still take my mirrorless/DSLR. I guess it comes down to what you're trying to achieve...if you mainly take photos on your iPhone or a compact camera, then take that. Personally, I like to get those excursion shots that an iPhone cannot capture, so I lug my camera (as well as my cell phone). My wife and I keep important documents on paper. Dropbox and cloud files are a good idea, but we've been caught out in the past when electronics fail or there's no Internet (and Dropbox didn't sync). Essentials like your embarkation docs we like to have in paper and easy to hand for faster embarkation experience. I always bring a sports coat. It makes me sad to see folks wearing golf shirts on formal/informal nights. However, I am seeing the shift to more casual. I can throw on a sports Jacket over a golf short and then look the part in most of the restaurants and bars. Better to have than be caught without.

I definitely bring a stocked first aide kit any time I travel. It's always been used. I'm too clumsy for it to ever take a break!

I no longer bring the clips for towels around the pool. However, I discovered that the clips make really good weights at the bottom of the shower curtain to keep it from flying outward and water getting all over the floor in the shower. Now I just bring a couple. They are light weight and really cheap if I forget them at the end of the cruise. You didn't mention magnet hooks which I always bring to get stuff up off the floor and out of the way. Thanks Good video

Gary I just booked my family's first cruise to Alaska and I thank you for all of your fantastic advice and tips! Your advice is so pertinent and practical, very useful. When I first began to research an Alaskan cruise, I was so overwhelmed with the amount of information I'd need to get through to put together a cruise that fit my family's needs and our budget. Your videos made all the difference in educating me. Thanks for sharing your experience and guidance so that others can make the most of their vacation days and dollars.

@NanetteG.-ii4xy

4 ай бұрын

Alaska cruises r wonderful! Bring binoculars to see eagles, whales etc. they're appreciated 🎉❤😊 ports r fantastic

On the subject of adapters -- all the electrical things I bring are now dual voltage so I only need plug adaptors but not power transformers. Samsonite makes an invaluable single-piece little gadget which lets you plug in any power cord from anywhere in the world, including USB, and then connect into any kind of wall power socket worldwide. A huge space saver! One thing I definitely have learned NOT to bring is multiple pairs of shoes. One pair of good walking shoes for daytime use, one pair of black leather shoes for evenings, and a lightweight pair of sandals for getting to and from the pool -- that's it.

Hi Gary. Thank you for your excellent advice. We just returned from a cruise and honestly, i brought way too many clothes and shoes for dinners. To be honest, there is nothing wrong with wearing something twice and nobody will even notice it. Also, dont bring a hairdryer or a small mirror as they had them in the room. If i think of so ething else, i will add it to the list.

I like your suggestions, had heard sometime ago, though this new refreshed. Thank you. I have my cruise essentials list as well

Always great advice and professional tips. Thank you for sharing your expertise.😊

Gary I’m sure your a pro, that has picked up so many hints and tips over your cruising career 😎 Great Channel, like your style and sharing with viewers the best tips.

Great video!!! We do most of the things that you recommend, but this is a good reference to bookmark so I can keep it as a refresher. You managed to pack alot of excellent information in 13 min. Thank-you so much!

Very useful video Gary, thanks

You've mentioned the Skype trick before and it is a really, really smart one. I used to do this for my family back in the US when it was just easier to call landlines or mobile phone numbers. Worked really well and used to be quite good value for money. I don't regret for a minute the Skype credit I paid for in order to stay in touch with my grandparents before they passed.

I always carry a glasses repair kit which are available from the bargain shops in the UK…. This has saved the day on a couple of occasions when one of the arms fell off and a lens popped out😃👍

This is great info. My brother and I are going to Norway out of Southampton with only carry on.

These tips helped out on a Panama Canal cruise last year. My needed the sea sickness remedy on the sea day on the way back to Florida.

I'm really loving watching your videos. I'm learning so much information (I didn't even know about Apple airtags!). Thank you for the great advice. Or about the banned list - really didn't think of checking that! I didn't think I would run into any issues, but your mention on extension cords gave me pause.

I’m glad to see your using the “Away” luggage!! Great product 👍

Hi Gary, love your channel and your tips etc. I too always pack a good first aid kit, but, having been a voluntary Cardiac First Responder, one thing I always bring with me, and keep on my person at all times is Asprin, 300mg and chewable. I've never needed it, and hopefully, never will, but I'd rather have it and not need it, than need it and not have it. Keep up the great work!

Great insight Sir Gary. Thank you. 🤗🛳️

@tipsfortravellers

9 ай бұрын

Glad it was helpful! Thanks for watching!

After your recommendation we are going in the Yacht Club of MSC Seascape tomorrow. Yes, we like dressing up for our 170th cruise. Yes, we agree with you on all the observation on 5his video

Re: prescription meds, you can have your pharmacy print out labels that have all the drug info. including the code number that’s on the pill itself. I like to put my meds in a small baggie and then I stick the labels to the baggie. Pills can be matched to the label for identification Takes up a lot less room in your carry-on.

Loved this video so much I subscribed! I loved the camera and video-recording suggestions!

Regarding your medication. If you are prescribed opioid painkillers such as Tramadol there are some countries that will not allow them to be brought in so just check first.

Yah know, I think running into you and buying you a cup of coffee would be an awesome experience. I bet you can tell a lot of awesome stories!

My mobile is all I need now when travelling! The weight savings is fantastic! The ultimate multitasker! Remember when everyone in London had the A-Z! Also, always pack an extra charging cable! And also pack large zip seal bags! I also pack very efficiently and will often pack cheap socks and pants that I can leave behind if I need more room when returning. I've paid 20 for a 10pk of "disposable" boxer briefs from Asda. Sometimes you have to leave the La Perla at home LOL!

Still love bringing my camera.

I am with Mark, I bring my pillow too. I also use gardeners light velcro tape. I use it to hold my cords together and I don't care at all if I lose it. It's very handy and doesn't seem to stick to anything but it's self.

Learnt a lot.Thinking of cruising.Clothing was a subject that had me thinking.

Very good points about medication Gary. I typically try to bring everything I can think of packed into my medical bag in case something comes up. I learned the hard way one time when I went looking for throat lozenges on Princess and it turned into them wanting to test us for Covid at the medical center.

Excellent advice. I don't cruise, but your list applies regardless of the mode of travel. Packing light is a godsend. I do throw in s few cloths pins and have found they come in handy. As far as first aid, I like to have a few packaged alcohol wipes for disinfectant purposes.

Good tips Gary - it's amazing how indispensable cell phones have become. Even being retired, I cannot see how I could travel without one. So strange considering all the years Connie & I traveled throughout Europe with no problems before the cell phone came along. I still bring a camera (because photography is a hobby) but just one smaller one with one or two small lenses. We each have one carry-on size bag and one personal item so we can avoid checking bags on the way to the cruise (although we usually check them when going home), and that's even for the 94 day cruise we will be taking on HAL next year.

@k8zhd

9 ай бұрын

Wow, I envy how you can pack for a long cruise with so little! Whatever it is my wife and I do, we always seem to end up with two large suitcases plus other bags. Anything longer than about 7 days drives us crazy if the cruise line doesn't have a laundry. How do you do it?

@jeffreywagner5234

9 ай бұрын

Yes, we are doing “carry on” only now. And will use laundry Facilites on the ship which is cheaper than paying for luggage on flights.

@crimlarksSteve

9 ай бұрын

@@k8zhd We mostly cruise on Princess and do laundry on the ship. (And we just made Elite level on Princess, so we get free laundry which will be nice on our upcoming Princess cruises.) Since Holland America doesn't have laundromats, we will pay for them to do our laundry on the 94 day cruise ($20 per bag from what I've read). It's just so nice not to have to lug around too many bags.

@CCB249

9 ай бұрын

I love your travel style! Carry on! Way to go!

@AndreasAntics

9 ай бұрын

@@crimlarksSteve if you are going on a 94 day cruise I believe they automatically bump you up to the level where you get free laundry

I loved this video! Very helpful thank you

@tipsfortravellers

9 ай бұрын

Glad it was helpful!

Super useful and to-the-point video! I don't bring post-its anymore as I can talk to my people via the chat app now and it's more efficient in finding each other on the ship.

@tipsfortravellers

9 ай бұрын

Thanks ! Appreciate you watching 👍🏻👍🏻

Just a note: some of that room paraphernalia such as overdoor hangers or heavy magnets to hang things on walls are much more handy for people who are maybe not traveling alone and/or have smaller cabins. If I were in a cabin aline, I wouldn't pack those things either. I'm going on a 10 day cruise next March with 3 over 60, we're cousins, so pretty sure some of that will really help!

When we don't have a drink package we take a water filter and a pitcher which we stuff full of socks etc. so actually does not take space away. In a hot climate, you should drink 3-4L water/day which gets very expensive.

superb video as always. we pack small magnets for the walls. very handy. cheers

Something that is on the banned list that I always bring is an extension cord. I have sleep apnea, so I need to plug in a CPAP machine in at night. The plug in the room is often on the other side of the room from the bed, so I need an extension cord to reach the outlet. Some cruise lines say they will supply an extension cord if you have sleep apnea, but I've not had any success getting them to actually do it.

@stevedowney9185

9 ай бұрын

Princess and Carnival have always supplied cords for my CPAP machine.

@paulgerrard9227

9 ай бұрын

Basic extension leads are not often banned. Check your cruise line list.

@kens805

9 ай бұрын

I've never had a problem getting an extension cord from my cabin Stewart on Carnival or Holland America.

@georgecarr732

9 ай бұрын

Royal Caribbean had extension in my cabin waiting for me

@pdallen5801

9 ай бұрын

My travel agent arranges the extension cords and distilled water once I pay the cruise in full. She copies me on the request to customer service and depending on the cruise line, they’ll give me a confirmation number or I’ll keep a copy of the email response. I’ve never had a problem. I’m sure you can reach out to the cruise line yourself if you don’t a have travel agent.

I like to bring cinnamon sticks for my morning coffee. Doesn't take up much room and I enjoy it. Interesting video. Thanks for sharing!

I love a great packing video! I’m probably an opposite packer to you 😂

I used to pack way too many outfits for formal night and too many shoes. Most of this stuff was going home unworn. Extra glasses are a must and an extra pair of sunglasses also. First cruise ever, somehow I lost my sunglasses at the Port of Seattle and I had to look at glaciers squinting because of it.

Thanks, Gary! This type of video is really helpful. We're just back from a Bergen to Montreal cruise that included stops in Greenland and Iceland. I brought a camera with a long lens and only took about 5 useful pics with it. The rest of the good pics were on my mobile. On our next cruise, I'm going to leave the big camera at home and just have a mobile phone with a 5x zoom and a rig for hooking it up to binoculars (in case there is a wildlife shot). We brought prescriptions for Paxlovid as a precaution (and ended up using them). I wish I had also brought Covid tests. I was lucky that an unplanned stop in Newfoundland resulted with me getting a 5-pack of tests (compliments of the Canadian government) from the Post Office there!

This video is going into my Cruises folder for future reference!

Love your first aid kit - tooth repair is a new one for me! I always pack antihistamines, rehydration sachets and sudacream. They’re lifesavers!

@eirabish7980

9 ай бұрын

Reydration tablets are easy to pack and easy to use, my husband had bout of stomach problems, not infectious but felt unwell, dr suggested taking Hydrolyte.

I just started learning photography and am excited about my new camera. I take it everywhere

Great video with loads of tips. We no longer bring robes or slippers. Uniworld provides those. Or body lotions.

I've never cruised (bit of a dislike of water/boats/ships etc) but I love watching stuff about them. We tend to do beach package holidays with the kids etc but the one thing that is always first in my first aid kit is a can of spray plaster - its so handy for nicks etc, especially on awkward places such as feet/elbows etc and if nothing else keeps the affected area clean until I can get somewhere to put a proper plaster/dressing on! Very easy to find in the UK in major chemists, discount stores or supermarkets :)

@glenncamp733

7 ай бұрын

Good idea, but hard to take on flights.

@Lloyd1885

5 ай бұрын

​@@glenncamp733they can go in the hold with the main baggage.

@Lloyd1885

5 ай бұрын

Yep, you can get one thats painted on with a small brush similar to a bottle of nail varnish too. Although they sting a bit sometimes.

Lots of great tips. Most have been on our checklist for years. We revise it every trip. Our checklist also includes everything pre-cruise / trip. eg preparing the house! I also do my own itinerary which becomes our pre-cruise/trip diary of important dates / due dates. It includes booking references, etc. Here's one to add to your case. FILTER water bottles. Brita make them. Keep them in the fridge. When empty, they pass though airports and cruise checks. Re camera. I'll still be taking my 'big' camera with zoom. In fact I bought a new mirrorless full frame with IS 24-240mm zoom. Total only 1.2kg. Why? Because my purposes are different. My subject matter is different. I'm not into video and posting online. I'm into prints. Your additional / alternative camera gear reflects what and how you want to record. Exactly the way to approach it. For anyone considering buying a camera, don't talk camera specifications. Talk about what you want to achieve. Then you'll make the right choices. Yes, phone cameras are great these days. If you have a good one, I would not consider a camera under $500. That's pretty much what's in a top line phone anyway! And yes, I take my phone and use it too. It has its place, no matter what. Almost any camera can do great pictures, so long as you use it within its limits. Love your videos. You present what you do and don't like and why. THEN you offer alternate views and a bit on them. That's great. Keep doing it!

When you mention smart shoes, do you mean a shoe phone like Maxwell Smart? I use a lanyard (with a break away clasp) for carrying the room key card. That way I know I have it when I leave the room. If I don't see it in front of me, I know I don't have it. Also, it works well when wearing clothes without pockets.

@Signs9

2 ай бұрын

Haha, you're showing your age!

I just added the tooth repair recently, and yes I chipped a tooth on a cruise once which was a literal pain. I always have moleskin though I rarely need it now. For what it is worth, there is a solid sun cream. It’s made for babies and is quite small. I haven’t tried to use it on my back or shoulders but I like it for hands and face … I often have a long sleeve shirt on for sun. I also have a solid bug lotion, it’s small too but makes it easy to carry. Maybe 2 inch diameter, and 3 inches high? Perhaps the strangest thing I had was a safety pin. I used it for my hiking pole when the pin broke for an unknown reason! They really do work for things like glasses and other things that aren’t holding your clothes together. I now have a small bar of soap that is in a tulle bag with a string clothes again so I can hang it to dry. Too many places without TP or soap, even on cruise tours!

@robinmcgann3777

4 ай бұрын

Neutrogena makes a stick suncreen in spf50. Doesn't count as a liquid and is more portable in a purse or backpack.

I always have an old gift card. I use it to trip the cabin light switches. That way, I do not leave my wife in the dark if it is my card key in the holder or vice versa. However, my sister stayed in a hotel in Scandinavia that required the actual key card.