Going on a cruise ship is unlike other kinds of vacations, especially when it comes to preparing and packing for the trip.
In truth, it's easy enough to go on a cruise and plenty of people go on cruises without much planning and have a good time. However, the difference between a "good vacation" and a "great vacation" lies with good prep.
Royal Caribbean cruises are an inviting family vacation choice that packs so much for families to enjoy, both onboard the ship and ashore in the places you'll visit.
While I don't think you need to spend a fortune on a new wardrobe, accessories, and travel add-ons to have a really good cruise, there are some things I'd recommend to anyone going on their first Royal Caribbean cruise to get started. Think of these as a starter pack for your first cruise.
Grab your online shopping cart, as I share the seven things I'd recommend anyone going on a Royal Caribbean cruise for the first time should buy.
Motion sickness remedies
You probably won't get seasick on your cruise, but just in case, it's smart to have things with you to combat it.
A lot of first time cruisers worry about getting seasick, but the reality is the ship won't move as much as you think. But just like anytime you've ever been motion sick in the past, it was probably a surprise that it happened.
The good news is even if you do get seasick, it's easy to treat.
I'd recommend buying over-the-counter medications that you can take either proactively or once seasickness symptoms begin.
Bonine and Dramamine are the two brands most people buy, and I've used them too. They work quickly and the only side effect is usually feeling sleepy. (This link contains an affiliate link)
There's also kids formulas that have less of the active ingredient.
Be sure to look at the various forms, especially if you want to drink alcohol.
There are other alternatives, such as seabands or even a prescription from your doctor to take.
I bet this will end up being a waste of money, but it's smart to have some, just in case.
Packable beach bag
It's easy to overlook a beach bag as something you can use on a cruise.
Having a beach bag or small backpack is so helpful getting all your stuff on and off the ship in port. You'll need to bring towels, identification, books, spare clothing, and electronics with you and a bag is so much easier than pockets.
Plus, you can use this bag when you're going to the pool deck as well.
You don't need to go crazy with buying something expensive, because it's going to accumulate sand and water as you use it. It's merely a vessel to easily organizing all your stuff into one bag.
There are some good and inexpensive beach bags you can buy for your cruise that you'll be able to re-use on many future sailings. (This link contains an affiliate link)
Casual and theme night attire
I think a lot of first time cruisers are concerned with having the right clothing with them for the cruise.
While Royal Caribbean does have dress codes, they're rarely enforced and pretty casual. However, a lot of families love to get into the spirit of things with the theme night attire.
Every evening there will be a theme night, and it's up to you if you want to dress up for it or not.
Of course, it helps to know before the cruise begins what clothing you'll need. You can figure out the theme nights before you board and then shop appropriately to have the right stuff.
Remember, these themes are optional. So if you see Caribbean night or Red night listed, it's up to you if you want to get matching outfits for the entire family.
If you plan to eat in the Main Dining Room or a specialty restaurant, you will need to pack nicer clothing for those meals. Don't worry, it doesn't have to look like a black tie affair.
There are lots of outfit ideas, but something nicer than what you'd wear to the pool deck is pretty much the minimum.
Sunscreen and aloe vera gel
If you don't have sunscreen, you're asking for a problem later.
Even in the winter months, the Caribbean sun is very strong and there's always a few passengers that are burnt by the second day.
Be sure to bring sunscreen and apply it early and often. I'd recommend re-applying every couple of hours because it washes off easily in the water.
Sunscreen is a good start, but also buy aloe vera for when the inevitably sunburn occurs. (These links contains an affiliate links)
Aloe vera makes the pain and discomfort that comes with sunburn more bearable, and it's a good backup in case you do get burnt.
Magnetic hooks
Ask anyone that cruises a lot what they always pack, and the answer is probably going to include magnets.
Your cruise ship cabin is a lot smaller than most hotel rooms, and definitely smaller than your bedroom at home.
Storage space can be at a premium on a cruise, but magnetic hooks are so helpful. These magnets can be placed just about anywhere in your room because the walls and ceiling are made of metal.
It's great for keeping clothes off the ground. Plus, you could also get magnets that have clips to help with papers and receipts.
Be sure to get heavy duty magnetic hooks so that it can handle the weight of wet clothes. (These links contains an affiliate links)
Cruise approved outlet extender
Older Royal Caribbean cruise ships (anything built before 2010) don't have nearly as many power outlets as you'll need.
In fact, only the newest ships even have USB outlets onboard, and most are USB-A plugs.
I'd recommend buying an outlet extender, but be sure it's one that is permissible by the cruise line.
Royal Caribbean recently restricted the type of outlet extenders you can bring, and they'll confiscate it if it doesn't adhere to the requirements.
Essentially, you can bring any outlet extender that only has one A/C outlet, but as many USB outlets as you like. This is one such device I recommend, and is allowed on Royal Caribbean ships. (Yes, another affiliate link!)
Buying a USB hub means you can keep all your devices charged without fighting over outlets.
Travel alarm clock or nightlight
There are no clocks in your cabin, so a travel alarm clock is quite helpful.
I use my phone for an alarm, but it's so much more useful to have a clock you can open one eye and check the time.
This is especially helpful in an inside cabin. Interior rooms have no natural light, so you'll have no idea if it's 4am or 4pm.
A fun idea is to buy a sunrise alarm clock, because it has a gradual light that mimics the sun rising. Plus, it even has noise you can sleep to: birds, running water, white noise, and more.
