Megan Harris

Look on any wedding/honeymoon website and you’ll probably be able to find a checklist reminding you to pack toothpaste, floss, deodorant, underwear and all the basics that you can’t (or don’t want to) live without. Those checklists are great and especially useful to the honeymoon couple whose frazzled brains threaten to go on strike if they have to go down even one more mental checklist.

But what about all those honeymoon essentials that aren’t basic? To help you out, we’ve compiled a list of things to bring on your destination honeymoon and things that may need to be done in preparation before you board the plane.

If you’re leaving the country you’ll need a passport and a photocopy of the picture page and passport ID number (the copy is a precautionary measure for you in case your passport is lost or stolen while in another country). Make sure you keep the passport and the photocopy in separate locations and always have your passport with you in a safe place. If you don’t already have a passport, be sure to allow at least six weeks for the passport to arrive, unless you’re willing to pay the $60 fee in addition to regular passport application fees. For more information on how to apply for a passport, or renew, or to get correct information on your passport, go to
http://travel.state.gov/index.html.

You’ll also want to look into vaccination requirements for the country to which you’ll be traveling, and allow enough time to get the vaccinations if you haven’t already had them.

A language dictionary will be helpful, but you might also consider learning some important phrases before traveling. These might include, “Where’s the bathroom?” “How much does that cost?” and my personal favorite, “Do you speak Enlgish?”

Many, but not all, hotels will have a hair dryer mounted on the wall. Remember, when traveling to Europe, if you bring a hair dryer or any other electrical item, you’ll need an adapter to plug it in.

Be sure to bring an International Phone Card. It will probably be cheaper if you buy it in the U.S. before you leave.

Bring both traveler’s checks and some cash. It’s always a good idea to purchase a traveler’s purse that straps around your torso underneath your clothing. Keep your money, checks and passport safely tucked inside.

Have comfortable shoes for walking tours or just strolling around.

If you’re heading to the Caribbean, Hawaii, Florida, or any other tropical paradise, keep these things close at hand:

• Suntan Lotion with a strong SPF (at least SPF 15, but 30 is preferred)
• Bug Spray
• Bathing suit(s)
• Sunglasses
• Beach Cover-up
• Beach Bag to carry it all
• Water bottle (be sure to stay hydrated, especially if you plan on drinking alcoholic beverages)
• Wide-brimmed hat to protect your face and head
• Snorkeling/diving gear if you don’t want to rent. You may also want to make reservations ahead of time for diving lessons. Find out what are the certification requirements and where are the best places to dive. Find out if your hotel provides boat trips to dive/snorkel sites.
• Hiking boots if you plan to go inland and see the less developed parts of the island, and especially if you plan to hike to the top of a mountain and watch the sunset (or sunrise if you’re really feeling ambitious).

Obviously a packing list for a cruise to the Western Caribbean will look very different from that of a cruise to Alaska. However, here are some general things to keep in mind.

Once again you will need a passport if you are going anywhere outside the U.S.

Before boarding the ship, research the excursions on the Internet by visiting the cruise line’s website. This will allow you to have an idea of what you want to do and a chance to plan your days in advance. Also, some cruise lines will allow you to book certain excursions in advance. This helps with scheduling and ensures that you’ll get a chance to do the things that appeal to you most.

Don’t be deceived by the words “All Inclusive,” because often drinks (alcohol, soda, etc.) are not included. Cash is not exchanged on the ship, so remember that the charge card they hand you when you board the ship does actually keep a tab of what you spend. Many people are surprised to be handed a bill for hundreds or even thousands of dollars at the end of their trip.

Be sure to plan ahead for gratuity for the many people who will be meeting your needs and working hard to make your experience as relaxing and enjoyable as possible. At the end of the cruise you will be given envelopes with a recommended amount for each of these, including the Maitre’d, head waiter, the assistant waiter, and the cabin steward.

Bring an evening gown or cocktail dress for the Captain’s Dinner. Otherwise, dress/casual is appropriate for evening meals. During the day, you should wear whatever is comfortable.

If at all possible, try to pack one set of sleepwear, one extra set of clothes, toothbrush and other essential toiletries and medications in your carry-on in case of luggage delays. If you’re having trouble fitting everything in your carry-on or suitcase, try rolling your clothes instead of folding them flat. Be careful, though, that you don’t overstuff and end up paying extra for the weight of the suitcase. Leave plenty of space in your suitcase for souvenirs if you don’t want to have them shipped home, which can be costly.