Making the Most of Your Cruise Vacation

So, you've finally booked that cruise vacation you've been talking about for years. The bags are packed and you're about to embark on the voyage of your life.

You're going to have a blast no matter what. How can days on the open seas, exploring new ports of call, indulging in all sorts of delicacies without ever setting foot in a kitchen, and being far away from work and daily household chores be anything but a recipe for fun?

Even so, there are things you should know and do to make sure you get the most out of your cruise vacation and guarantee yourself memories that will last a lifetime.

1. When Packing, Go For Variety Without Excess

Packing for a cruise can be tricky. Unlike some other vacations, you'll need clothing for a variety of settings, and possibly climates. When you're setting sail for the Caribbean, it can be tempting to throw nothing but bathing suits, shorts, tank tops and tee-shirts into your bag. But if your cruise ship is leaving from a colder port, you may have several chilly days at sea before the tropical sun starts warming your shoulders. Make sure to bring a few pairs of jeans or long pants and sweatshirts so that you can explore the ship's decks on those chillier days.

On a cruise, there are many opportunities to dress up and experience dining and dancing in your finery. Make sure to pack that formal gown, cocktail dress, or suit. Even if you plan is to skip most of the "dress up" activities in favor of more casual meals and events, it doesn't hurt to be prepared. When you see all the fun everyone else is having strutting their stuff, you may just change you mind.

While you want to make sure you have everything you need, don't give in to the urge to over-pack. Depending on the size of your cabin, storage may be limited. There are generally laundry facilities on board, so if you encounter more days of nippy ocean breezes than you planned for, you can always give that long-sleeved shirt a quick whirl in the wash and wear it again. If you forget or run out of certain toiletry items, you'll almost always be able to replenish them in the ships many stores.

2. Have Your Bags Tagged and Your Passport On Hand