Important documents are an obvious must, and I like to bring copies
It may seem redundant, but pack a copy of your passport, driver's license, and insurance card.
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In the unhappy event of a lost document, a photocopy speeds emergency replacement or provides temporary ID.
A driver's license also helps when visiting ports, and an insurance card comes in handy in case of any medical need.
Preprepared labels are really handy for postcards or even filling out forms
I love to send postcards, but it isn't always easy on a ship.
Address labels encourage me to send missives to the less fortunate folks ashore.
My search for postage stamps in foreign ports has somewhat dampened my card-sending, but it simply adds another challenge to complete the mission.
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It's worth the extra space to bring a nice pair of binoculars
Binoculars should be an easy thing for anyone to bring along, but they're often overlooked because of their bulk.
Luckily, more compact ones have become available as technology has improved. With them, sea life comes closer and details otherwise overlooked are right in front of you.
If you happen to be taking a longer cruise or one to tropical locations, it might be worth a visit to a sporting-goods store to find a nice new pair of binoculars to give you an expanded view on board.
I always document my times at sea in a blank journal
A blank journal gives me the incentive to keep track of shipboard events, people, recipes, memories, and even my private thoughts.
In later years these journals can bring to life the wonderful voyages that you and your loved ones have taken. Often, memories of special happenings will pop up after being long forgotten.
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Packing a list of passwords for your necessary online accounts can be invaluable
Many times I've tried to get to my emails on board, but passwords are hidden in my memory. Therefore I stumble through the resetting of passwords on the usually cumbersome ship internet.
So, if you are a bit forgetful, it might be wise to keep keywords and passwords safe with your important papers to save time and frustration.
In addition to bringing my current medications, I make sure to have a list of them handy for emergencies
In any visit to a doctor, clinic, hospital, or pharmacy their first question is going to be about what medications you're taking.
One time I needed ocular medications for glaucoma in St. Thomas, and the pharmacist asked for the colors of my pills and was luckily able to figure out my needs.
But I wouldn't count on that kind of solution — usually, only the unpronounceable name of the medicine itself will do.
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Between my late wife Donna and I, we visited doctors, dentists, and even the ship's doctor while traveling. In most cases, we smugly pulled out a printed list of our current medications when asked.
A nice bottle of wine lets you start your trip in style
Our family takes advantage of that generosity, which allows us to start our vacation in style.
It is also advisable, however, to bring a corkscrew to get at the joyful contents.
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