What do you really need to pack for an All-Inclusive Vacation?

It all depends where you are going.  Your best source of information is your Travel Agent who has personally stayed at many of the resorts and knows activities, amenities and services.  All inclusive resorts will include the basic toiletries such as soap, shampoo, lotion etc.  If there is a special item you cannot live without, you should bring your own along with your toothbrush, makeup, curling iron, razor and such.  Most important, don't forget the sunscreen!
All inclusive resorts for families and couples specialize in fun.  No need to bring your own beach towels, snorkeling equipment, games or movies - these and other items are at the resort.
Clothing can be a little trickier.  When in doubt ask your travel agent.  Most resorts are on the beach, so bathing suites, cover-ups, shorts and t-shirts are a must. Sandals, and tennis shoes are also a good idea.  If you plan to play golf or tennis, the appropriate clothing may be required.  Dinner and clubs usually require more than t shirts and shorts.  Slacks for men and a nice sundress or slacks for women is usually just fine.  



Luggage Question - Check or Ship??

With the high costs many airlines are charging to check luggage is there really a benefit to shipping your luggage via a national shipper?  In some cases yes.  If you are packing for an extended period of time and know you will have to check several bags when you fly shipping your luggage might be more cost effective.  But there are several other things to consider before shipping your luggage to your next destination:.

Domestic flights usually charge one fee for the first bag and an additional higher fee for the second.  IF either bag is overweight, the fees are even higher.  Consider shipping your bags Fed Ex or UPS.  Shipped with a national carrier you can track the whereabouts of your personal items and avoid the pushing and shoving that often occurs at the baggage claim area after a long flight.   
Most international flights allow at least one fee free bag per passenger and the weight limits are usually higher. You are probably better off checking your bag with the airline.
If you decide to ship your luggage, pay a little more for the insurance and make sure there will be someone at the other end to sign for your stuff.  
Ski season is here - instead of shipping your skis, it may be cheaper to rent them once you get to the slopes.  Use this as a chance to test a different brand or style especially if you are in the market for something new.

What NOT to pack for your cruise

When packing for a cruise, most people feel like they should take everything but the kitchen sink, you know "just in case".  Yes a flashlight and clock are really necessary as well as nail clippers, post-it paper and highlighters.  However there are some things that are not allowed on a cruise ship and will be confiscated when found and in some cases not returned.  Firearms, ammunition, realistic replicas of firearms and illegal drugs are pretty obvious no-nos.  But consider these other no-no's:
Candles & Incense
Coffee Makers and Hot Plates (there is plenty of food and coffee on the Lido deck, or call for room service)
Clothes Irons
Baseball Bats, Hockey Sticks, Bows & Arrows, Cricket Bats, Lacrosse Sticks
Flammable liquids and explosives
Chemicals including bleach and paint

Search This Blog