Since I'm outside on most port days and often work all night, my phone loses battery fast. Plus there are not as many cabin outlets as you'd imagine, especially on older ships.
In the past, I'd bring extension cords so my phone could charge near my bed, but now, portable chargers save the day.
I always bring my favorite sauce bottles from home to spice up the food and remind me of my favorite places.
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Ships are often chilly, so I make sure to pack sweatshirts
It might be hot in the Caribbean but it's typically freezing inside the ship.
I like to keep my cabin cold and bundle up in comfy sweatshirts every night, which is a nice change of pace from the typically hot days under the sun.
Hats are versatile and functional
This may sound obvious, but many people forget to pack hats.
They're important in many different scenarios. I always pack a large selection, whether fedoras to protect me from the sun or top hats to add to formal wear.
De-wrinkle spray is helpful when you don't have access to an iron
I didn't know this spray existed before I started working on ships, but it's a game-changer when you don't have access to an iron.
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All it takes is a few sprays and maybe some steam from the shower, and your clothes are as good as new.
When I want to feel cozy, I break out my fuzzy slippers
I don't go anywhere without my slippers, and having them on board is a must.
When you want to feel pampered and at home, slipping on a fuzzy, warm pair of kicks is the ultimate reminder of happiness.
I bring my magnet collection with me on every contract
On the ships I've worked on, most of the walls are magnetic, so I like to collect magnets and bring them with me to every new contract or cabin.
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