If packing your laptop, be sure to include an ethernet cable. A section five to ten feet long should be plenty, as most hotels are nice enough to put the ethernet port close to the bed and the desk (but not so nice that they provide the cable).
Keep in mind that no internet connection is 100% secure, but a direct connection is more secure than a wireless one.
If you’re cruising as part of a big group of family and friends, it’s a lot of fun to divide into teams for a scavenger hunt. Items for the hunt can be dares, found objects, and fact-finding missions.
For example, have the groups try to find the ship’s largest suite, or ask each team to shake the captain’s hand. It’s a great way to pass those days at sea — and you can learn a lot about the ship you’re enjoying!
Pro tip: If you require there to be photographic evidence of each completed scavenger hunt item, then everyone goes home with great scrapbook photos.
Maybe it’s your mom’s hairdresser’s nephew, and chances are you’ll have nothing in common. But you never know…
It’s worth grabbing a coffee with an acquaintance (however many times removed), if you don’t know a new city or country. It makes a completely different kind of trip when someone takes you to their favorite cafe or recommends an obscure nearby venue when you mention you like folk music.
Bonus: because you’ll meet someone a friend or family member knows, you’re strengthening your relationships at home!
A lot of folks make a list of what to bring before they go on a trip.
Personally, I prefer to make a list of what I plan to buy while I’m away. This way, I know how much room to leave in my bag for souvenirs.
Also? A list ensures I won’t forget anyone on my list.
Regular jetsetters may never consider stepping foot in a camping store, but it can be a treasure trove of inexpensive gadgets for efficient packing.
At a camping store, you can find space-saving items like paper shampoo, collapsible water bottles made from soft plastic bags, and miniature toothbrushes. Also, depending on how long you’ll be gone, you might find a use for items like tiny kitchen utensils, collapsible bowls and cups, an adjustable clothesline — even a table that rolls up like a yoga mat.
Plus, everything in a camping store is designed to be lightweight and easy to haul around, so you’re assured of picking up some easy-to-carry gear.