What are some tips for packing to work on a cruise ship?

What to pack...

Congratulations on your step to becoming a merchant marine! Working on a cruise ship is one of the most challenging, yet rewarding experiences you'll ever undertake in your career!

So, you want to know what to pack for employment on a ship, eh? Well, the most important thing will be to determine what climate your ship operates in normally. If you're going to Hawaii you'll need far different clothing than Alaska! However, it is important to realize these points:

• You will likely be sharing a cabin with up to 4 other crew members. Space is extremely tight - so don't bring large suitcases. There's nowhere to put them.

• You will be wearing a company-provided uniform every day of the week. Your own clothing will be used only for your time off.

• They have complimentary washers and dryers on the ship for you!

• Many crew members wear the same casual wear a lot (the same t-shirts, jeans, shorts etc.) Don't feel like you have to be a fashion king/queen and wear a different outfit each day of the month.

So, with these tips in mind, you should consider 10-12 pair of underwear and socks, 3-4 t-shirts, 2 pair of shorts, 1 pair of jeans (unless working in a cold climate), 1 -2 dressy outfits for going out on the town or special occasions onboard, 1 pair of tennis shoes and 1 pair of dress shoes.

As far as extras, bring with you one full bottle of each of the sundries you normally use (shaving cream, gels, sprays, deodorant, etc.) - which will buy you some time to find where to get these items during your ship's itinerary. You should also buy a BATTERY OPERATED alarm clock, flashlight, a padlock for your locker, I reccommend a DVD player (most crew cabins don't have one installed in them) and as far as what to pack all of this in -- a collapsible piece of luggage like an oversized duffel bag.

Do not bring: Liquor, clothing irons, drugs without prescriptions, handcuffs, candles (or anything with a steady open flame), any electronics that turn energy into heat - except a curling iron, knives, pepperspray/mace or weapons of any kind.

Well, that's about the list. Remember, the basic rule is that you can likely purchase anything you need at the ship's ports of call. If you pack light, your trip to the ship will be easier and you can get some fashion with local flavor, too! Also remember that you can always ship some items home the week before you sign off, too!

Happy cruising! Hit me upon my message board (MmmDietCoke) for any other advice about working on a cruise ship!

First answer by MmmDietCoke. Last edit by MmmDietCoke. Contributor trust: 453 [recommend contributor]. Question popularity: 17 [recommend question]