So, we did it. Our first cruise is in the books. It was a short four day venture and, all in all, it was pretty great. We went from South Florida, to further in South Florida in Key West, then to Cozumel, Mexico, a day on the ship and back.

I had never been on a cruise before but there were some things I brought and I was SO GLAD! Want to know what they were? Here you go=)

Sun Hat

I bought said sun hat in Panama. It’s literally the first (and only) sun hat I have ever bought. It’s big and purple and I love it. Plus, it worked great for the cruise. The last day we spent on the back of the ship, tanning, reading and drinking and without that hat I would have left the cruise with a sunburned face. Instead, I left golden brown face.

Scarf

I have the most beautiful, soft, Persian scarf and this, too, was perfect for the trip. Not only is it gorgeous, cashmere, and an amazing accessory. It’s also huge, warm and doubled as a great extra but also a sometimes needed (warm) shoulder cover up.

Rope or Necklace (Holder) for Your Ship Card

Little did I know we would have to have a card to do everything on the ship. Order food? Need your card. Drinks Where’s your card? Want to leave the ship or get back on? Card. Get a shoelace necklace, rope or chain to wear your card. So much easier and then you always have it with you.

Ginger or Peppermint Oil 

Even if you think your tummy is good, if you’ve never been on a cruise, bring something to tame your tum! I always have peppermint oil on me (or at least in some form because the allergy oil blend I use has peppermint in it) so that is good. I also have been eating crystallized ginger since I was a child..it was my Grams go to for anything tummy.

Sunscreen

Make SURE you have sunscreen. I mean, you can spend 3 times as much on board to buy some if you want, but you WILL need it. On the ship, on excursions, and any time your outside slather it on. The ship gives you ample opportunity to get in your Vitamin D, but if you’re not careful, you’ll get a lot more than that.

Literally having these things (minus anything for my card) helped so much. I was really thankful I thought to bring these items and I know they helped me to enjoy myself to the fullest.

Anything I missed? I hope you are taking the time to enjoy this life, too, and get out and do new things when you can! XOXO