Cashmere Events Cruise Essentials: What You Really Need Before You Set Sail
As someone who plans luxury experiences for a living — weddings, events, retreats, and yes, the occasional “I need a vacation before the next vacation” getaway — let me save you a little stress before you hop on that cruise ship.
Because let’s be honest: once you’re on board, everything suddenly costs a cute little fortune. And the gag is… You could’ve brought most of it from home.
So here it is — Tia’s Cashmere-Certified Cruise Essentials List.
Yes, it’s long. Yes, you’ll thank me later.
Must-Have Items Before You Even Leave the House
Passport
Faster to the Fun (trust me, get it and stop playing)
Power strip
Lanyard for your ship card
Selfie stick
First Aid kit
TSA-approved corkscrew
Insect repellent
Motion sickness patches and/or pills
Sea-band bracelets
Lavender & peppermint oils for nausea
Your preferred pain reliever (Tylenol, Motrin, whatever keeps you cute and functioning)
Heartburn meds + antidiarrheal
Waterproof pouch
Multiple swimsuits — because one is never enough
Goggles
Beach shoes
Poncho for surprise rain
Sexy swim coverups (we’re not going out there looking regular)
Jacket, wrap, long sleeves, or leggings for cool nights
Quick-drying water shoes
Laundry bag
Tide-To-Go
Poo-Pourri (because cabins are small… and that’s all I’m saying)
Motion-sensor night lights (rooms are dark!)
Sunglasses
Waterproof sunscreen lotion
Mini binoculars
Towel band or clips
Reusable water bottle
Small portable charger for walking around the ship
iPad with movies/shows already downloaded
Sand toys if you’re traveling with little ones
Good-grip shoes — that deck loves to get slick when it’s wet
A Few Things You Need to Remember (Because I Love You)
1. Don’t drink the water.
I’m not elaborating. Just… don’t.
2. Cruise ship rooms are small and DARK.
Bring a motion-sensor nightlight so you don't stumble around half-asleep.
3. These ships may look massive… until you’re actually on them.
Manage expectations and pack smart.
4. Only water and lemonade are included.
Everything else is coming out of your pocket.
If you want sodas or cocktails, look into
Bottomless Bubbles Package
Drink Package. But here’s the catch: if one adult buys it, everyone 21+ in the cabin has to buy it.
5. Food is included — the nice restaurants are not.
That steakhouse bill will humble you real quick.
6. “Free” onboard events? Baby… read the fine print.
Something always has a fee attached.
7. Check your expenses every night.
Cruises feel all-inclusive. They are not.
A little swipe here, a souvenir there… next thing you know, whew. We even suggest paying them off every night if you can.
8. Review the ship itinerary nightly.
There is so much to do, and you’ll miss half of it if you’re not paying attention.
Also — download the Carnival Hub app before you even board.
9. Ignore anything that starts with “Congratulations, you’ve won…”
You did not win. It will cost you money. That’s all I’ll say.
10. Tipping & Money Tips (Because This Part Gets Messy)
You can remove automatic gratuities and tip your housekeeper directly if you want to ensure they get it.
Bring extra cash for small tips.
Spa services and alcohol are subject to additional taxes/tips.
Excursion teams expect cash tips.
11. Excursion Rule #1: Book Through the Cruise Line
If your excursion (booked through the ship) runs late, they will wait for you.
If you booked something cheap and cute on your own? And they’re late? The ship will absolutely leave you standing there waving.
Don’t say I didn’t tell you.
Final Word From Tia
A cruise is supposed to be relaxing, fun, and full of memories — not full of unnecessary onboard charges for things you could have thrown in your suitcase for a few dollars.
Pack smart, prepare ahead, and step on that ship looking like the Cashmere Experience you are.
If you found this helpful, stay tuned — I’ll be sharing more travel, lifestyle, and event-planning gems right here.
Because when you step out into the world, you should always do it Cashmere-level.
