FIVE MUST-PACK ITEMS FOR A CRUISE

Cruises offer the ultimate escape from the humdrum routine of everyday life. Cruise lines strive to provide their patrons with everything they need for a worry-free relaxing voyage, but there are a few things travelers will need to bring from home.

Prescription Medication – If you have any medicine you regularly take, be sure to bring an adequate supply with you on your cruise. Filling prescriptions at foreign ports can be a dicey proposition, so having enough medication on hand is important, particularly if it’s medicine for a serious health condition.

• ID & Passport – Be sure to pack your ID and passport before heading to your ship. It seems like a no-brainer, but you’d be surprised at how many people forget to pack these important documents. It’s also helpful to have a paper copy of your cruise tickets. If you don’t have your ID and passport, you may not be able to get on the ship or you could run into trouble at overseas stops.If you’re not sure whether your cruise will require a passport, contact the U.S. State Department or your cruise line to find out.

Cash – While many of the places you’ll visit will accept credit and debit cards, it never hurts to have a reserve of cash on hand. When traveling on a cruise, be sure to bring a few hundred dollars in cash along for emergencies. You can securely store the cash in your cabin. Traveler’s checks may also be a good option.

Beverages – Cruise lines charge pretty exorbitant prices for beverages, so if you can pack a six pack or two of your favorite soda, you can save a little money and ensure you get your caffeine fix. Also be sure to pack personal items like deodorant and shaving cream, as on-ship prices will be stout.

220 Volt Converters – Most cruise ships are manufactured overseas, so many are built with the type of electrical outlet used in their country of origin. While the U.S., Japan, and a few other countries use 110-volt outlets, much of the rest of the world uses 220-volt If you try to plug a device that uses 110 volts into a 220-volt outlet, you’re in for a rude awakening, as it will likely fry your device.

Step down converters can allow your devices to safely connect to 220-volt outlets. Converters will also help your device fit three-pronged European outlets.

More than 23 million people took to the sea on a cruise in 2015, with more than 12 million of them setting out from the U.S. Plan your trip carefully and pack the right gear, and you can be sure to have a memorable time visiting the Caribbean, the Greek Isles, or other popular cruise destinations.

110220Volts sells adapters, converters, and transformers that help U.S. travelers stay connected by keeping their devices charged while overseas. 110220Volts offers a wide selection of electronics, including region-free DVD players and much more. For help or a consultation, call 1-800-827-9978.