Essential Items To Pack For A Shore Excursion

Packing a bag for a shore excursion while you’re on a cruise is a fine balance of not packing too much, or too little.  You don’t want to weigh yourself down with excess gear, but you don’t want to forget anything you could need on your excursion. 

Here are some essential items to pack for a shore excursion.  

Water Bottle & Snacks
No matter what part of the world your excursion takes place in, a reusable water bottle is a must-have item to pack for your shore excursion.  Also, pack some light snacks such as granola bars if you know you will be out a while.

Medications/First Aid Kit
You should bring any prescription medications you currently take, including an inhaler, insulin, or EpiPens for an allergic reaction.  It is also a good idea to bring a small first aid kit with bandages, aspirin, tissues and hand sanitizer.

Waterproof Jacket/Rain Gear
Wherever you are, rain gear is something you should pack for your shore excursion.  Places like Iceland and Alaska may experience strong winds and rain at times, while even Caribbean islands can see rain showers while you are on your excursion.  Packing a waterproof hooded jacket is a must for any shore excursion.

Waterproof Wallet & Phone Case
If you are doing any water activities on your shore excursion, you will want to pack a waterproof wallet to protect any cash, credit cards, or ID cards you bring.  A waterproof phone case is also essential to guard your phone from water damage.  Also, fully charge your phone before your shore excursion!

ID Card & Cash
You should pack your ship ID for boarding, as well as a picture of your passport.  Bring your credit/debit card and a small amount of cash with you, including smaller bills for tipping.  Do not bring any valuables with you on your shore excursion. 

Dry Clothes & Towel
While we are talking about water activities, it is a good idea to pack a change of clothes to change into after getting your clothes or swimwear wet.  If you think you might want to try out that upscale restaurant in port, you will want to pack something appropriate to change into.  You may also want to pack a towel to dry off after swimming or snorkeling.

Tote Bag & Ziplock Bag
Inside your fully packed bag for your shore excursion, you should include an empty tote bag to carry any additional items or souvenirs you pick up on your excursion.  Pack a plastic zip-top bag to store any wet clothes if you plan on water activities.

Sunscreen
Don’t forget the sunscreen!  You should pack a reef-safe, biodegradable sunscreen no matter where you are traveling to. 

Sunglasses & Hat
A good pair of sunglasses with polarized lenses will guard you against harmful rays and reduce glare from the sun.  A hat or scarf is another essential item to protect your head from the sun during a shore excursion. 

Portable Fan
If you are going to an especially warm climate such as the Caribbean, you will want to pack a portable fan to cool off during your shore excursion. 

Insect Repellent
Pack an insect repellent to guard you against mosquitoes, ticks, and other bugs you may encounter during your excursion. 

Appropriate Shoes & Clothing
It goes without saying, but you will want to bring suitable clothing and shoes for the location and type of excursion you are going on. Comfortable walking shoes are a must– a good pair of hiking boots ideal for an Alaskan excursion, and water shoes a good idea for any water-based shore excursions.

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