6 Things NOT to Pack for a Cruise

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Cruising is a fantastic way for those of all ages and walks of life to enjoy an all-inclusive style vacation while visiting some of the world’s most beautiful and interesting destinations. Whether you are new to cruising or a seasoned voyager, it’s good to know these tips on what NOT to pack:

1. Anything that generates heat: Fire is the number one safety concern on a cruise ship, so the lines are pretty strict on this one. Candles, incense, travel irons, steamers, hot plates, and heating pads are forbidden. As an exception, curling irons and hair straighteners are generally allowed. Hair dryers may pass muster, too, but this is something you can leave at home, as most cruise lines offer one in room. For smokers, you may bring matches and a standard lighter, but torch and novelty lighters are a no-go.
2. Extension cords and power strips: This regulation varies from line to line, but it’s more likely than not to have this sort of item confiscated and held until the end of a cruise. We get it – our devices are important to us, and some passengers may require one for a medical device such as a CPAP machine. Cruise lines will generally provide you with an extension cord when necessary. The good news is, modern cruise ships offer plenty of power outlets throughout their cabins. If you absolutely can’t leave home without it, your cord should be one that does NOT have surge protection. 
3. Water: Again, this varies by cruise line, but most will not allow you to bring on this essential. Beverages offer big profit for cruise lines, and they don’t want you cutting into their bottom line. Even if you aren’t on a beverage package, you can often pre-purchase bottled water at a discount and it will be waiting in your cabin when you board. TIP: Bring a refillable water bottle on board. There are stations throughout most ships that provide free, filtered water at any time. 
4. Alcohol: Most cruise lines will not allow bringing any hard liquor on board the ship for personal consumption. There are some that will allow 1-2 bottles of wine or champagne to be brought aboard on boarding day, but they may charge a corkage fee. Any bottled alcohol purchased on board or while in port will need to be stored with the cruise line until debarkation. 
5. Unsealed food: Food safety is of the utmost importance on cruise ships, so it’s best to leave food items at home. While you generally may bring on sealed food, cruise lines frown upon bringing large amounts on board. Then again, why waste the space in your luggage? You’ll be spending your vacation surrounded by tantalizing delights for those of all tastes and dietary requirements!
6. Weapons: This one should go without saying, but we’ll reiterate it nonetheless. Make sure to leave your pocketknives, pepper spray, and self-defense items at home. This ban also includes practical items such as scissors.

While many of us prefer to “be prepared” for anything when traveling, it’s best to leave the above items at home when headed on a cruise. Remember – cruise cabins generally have a much smaller footprint than hotel rooms. Storage is limited, so we highly recommend you pack as light as possible. Chances are, your cruise line will have just what you need on board. More questions? Give Cruise Planners Getaway Gang a call – (877) 525-4050. Bon voyage!