Things to Put in Your Daypack During a Cruise Port of Call
One of the best parts of cruising is being able to explore a number of new destinations without having to continually pack and unpack your belongings. With a cruise, you just leave them in your stateroom, step off the ship to go explore, and then board the ship later that day to set sail for a new city, country, or island.
Still, you’ll want some things with you during your day in port. Here are some things to put in your daypack so you’re well prepared and can just focus on enjoying the day’s adventures!
What Type of Bag to Use
First, let’s discuss the actual daypack. What type should you bring? That depends a bit on where you’re going. If exploring a big city of bustling market or town center, a saddlebag style with a sturdy strap that you can sling over one shoulder and wear across you body with the main compartment in front of you will help you make sure you keep your possessions in view.
However, if you’re doing a rural shore excursion, then a small backpack might be a better fit so it fits more snugly against you while you’re hiking, riding a 4-wheeler, or other adventures.
If you’re just using a purse, make sure it’s a sturdy strap so it’s secure and comfortable. Also choose one with a long enough strap to wear across your body. Depending where you’re traveling, you also may want to bring a water-resistant one.
What to Put in Your Bag While in Port
Now for what to put in your daypack while exploring any type of port. I call this the daypack base and then in the next setion we’ll cover additional items to pack depending on if you’re spending the day on a tropical island or in a bustling city.
Water Bottle – You should be able to easily find water to purchase in most ports you visit, but it’s wise to bring a water bottle with you so have some right away in case it takes you longer than planned to find water. Cruise ships typically have water fill stations located in the buffet area.
Sunscreen – Even if the forecast looks overcast, slather on some sunscreen before leaving your stateroom and pack extra (a sunscreen stick takes up minimal space and won’t accidentally leak in your bag) in your daypack. A bad sunburn is a fast way to a miserable vacation, and even if your skin doesn’t typically burn at home, it may not be used to the level of the sun rays beaming down on you in other destinations, particularly ones closer to the equator.
Band-Aids – Bandages are smart to put in your daypack to cover any blisters on your feet in case your travel shoes aren’t as well worn in as you thought. They’re also good to have on hand in case you get any minor cuts while you’re out and about.
Sunglasses or Sunhat – You don’t want to be squinting at all the gorgeous sites you’ll be seeing. Pack some sunglasses or a sunhat with a visor that won’t easily blow off your head.
Rain Poncho – If it looks like it might rain, stick in an easy-to-fold rain poncho.
Your Guest Card – Don’t forget your cruise guest card! You’ll need it to get off and on the ship.
Extra Camera or Phone Battery – If you have an extra camera battery for your digital camera, don’t leave it in the stateroom. You may be surprised how much you turn your camera on and off throughout the day and you’ll run through your battery faster than planned. Likewise if your phone is serving as your camera.
Extra Things to Bring For an Island Port of Call
Swimsuit – If you’re not wearing this under your clothes, be sure to stick it in even if you’re not planning on going swimming. You never know – your plans might change once you see that gorgeous Caribbean sea or other body of water where you’re traveling.
Towel – If heading to a beach, bring a towel or be prepared to buy one from a local vendor stand. If you’re at a cruise line’s private island, there will likely be towels provided for you onsite, but double check with your particular cruise.
Water Shoes – Depending on the type of beaches you’ll be visiting, you also may want to stick in some water shoes so you aren’t hurting your feet if the shoreline is made up of small rocks instead of sand.
Plastic Bag – Having a sealable plastic bag handy is good when hanging out by water to put cell phones or cameras in. Big waves can surprise you coming up the beach, and things can accidentally go overboard while on boats and kayaks. Or even better, bring a reusable bag for wet items like the ones from Aloha Collection.
What to Put in Your Daypack for a City Port of Call
Scarf – This one is more for the ladies. If you’re planning to tour any churches, you typically need to have your shoulder and sometimes elbows covered. Have a lightweight scarf in your bag that you can pull out and wear over a tanktop or t-shirt if needed. Super strict churches will also require knees to be covered so it’s good to do your research beforehand of any church you want to visit and see what the dress code is.
Wet Wipes – Cities can be grimy, especially if you’re taking public transportation. So I like to stick some wet wipes in my daypack to easily wipe down hands or my face when needed.
