• Packing for a Caribbean cruise takes planning and a good packing list.cruise ship image by Brett Bouwer from Fotolia.com
  
  Cruising is a travel option for those that prefer to have an entire vacation essentially preplanned and prepaid. Today's cruise ships contain as many features, luxuries, amenities and activities as any resort and some are the size of a small city. Though gift shops and ports of call provide ample shopping opportunities, there are just some packing essentials you do not want to head out on a Caribbean cruise without.
  
  

Medications

• Medications, both prescription and non-prescription, need to be packed in plastic bags. You should make sure that your full name and prescription information is on all medications in the event of an emergency. Pack non-prescription essentials that may come in handy while visiting the Caribbean such as allergy medication, antihistamine pills, aspirin, headache medicine, antacid and anti-diarrhea medication.
  
  

Sunscreen

• Traveling to the Caribbean means stronger sun rays than many people are accustomed to. Pack plenty of sunscreen and make sure to include various SPF choices. Pack sunscreen sticks for quick applications while off of the ship and include a travel sized tube of sunscreen to carry around with you while on the ship.
  
  

Bug Spray

• Bug spray or insect repellent can come in handy while in the Caribbean. This is especially true if you will taking shore excursions through forests or exploring more secluded areas of the islands. Include both spray and lotion versions of protection for easy application.
  
  

Wide Brimmed Hat

• A wide brimmed hat can be a skin and scalp saver when traveling to and through the sunny Caribbean. Choose a hat that has a brim large enough to shade the majority of your face to help stave off sunburn. Pack more than one hat as it is not uncommon to lose one in the midst of traveling
  
  

Aloe

• Aloe can help soothe sunburned skin which is a common accident that happens to even the most loyal wearers of sunscreen. Take a large enough bottle of aloe gel and aloe lotion to use on all parties traveling to the Caribbean. Aloe can also be used on skin that is rough from sand and salt water exposure.
  
  

Camera and Extra Storage

• The Caribbean provides amazing views of water, sandy beaches, sunsets, sunrises and natural displays of flora and fauna. Make sure to take a camera and pack plenty of additional storage for the pictures that you take. Make sure to pack additional batteries and the camera charger as well.