Venturing down the Mississippi River is an enthralling experience that promises plenty of sightseeing, new memories, and souvenirs to bring home. To make the most out of the getaway, it’s important that travelers anticipate what they’ll need when packing for the cruise.
Travelers should remember that some of the key elements of Mississippi River itineraries, such as the duration of the trip, port visits and climate, should be taken into consideration when packing. It’s important to pack the right items to make the trip more enjoyable.
Clothing should be the main priority when packing for a Mississippi River Cruise. Cruise passengers should dress casually for their duration onboard the boat. Clothing for warm and cold conditions should also be taken into account, given the temperature on the river can vary. It’s also advisable to bring a sweater or light coat with you, to use in case of cold evenings. Additionally, trippers may also want to ditch the formalwear, since most cruises don’t require it, and uniforms are now generally accepted.
Because there are limited chances to buy items on board, it’s recommended to also pack any medication. All passengers must carry a valid government-issued photo identification, so passports, valid driver’s licenses and state-issued IDs are essential in the event of any border crossings. It’s also important to remember to pack some cash or credit cards to cover any necessary unforeseen expenses.
A camera is also a must-have for any cruise, as travelers will want to capture the beautiful sights along the way. A camera with at least 16 megapixels is ideal, depending on the kind of photography experience visitors are looking for. Tripods, filters and spare batteries will also come in handy.
In addition to packing the essentials, travelers should take the time to research what the onboard amenities are on their desired Mississippi River Cruise. Most of the time, most vessels provide their passengers with televisions, music, and activity programs, so if these are important, it’s paramount to make sure that the cruise chosen caters to these specific needs in case passengers need an entertainment break.
Checking Luggage Rules
When planning to take a cruise on the Mississippi River, it’s always a good idea to double-check the luggage policies. Knowing the maximum number and size of bags to bring on the boat is essential, since over packing may lead to items being sent to the ship’s hold and therefore unavailable during the trip.
Most cruise ships require passengers to limit their luggage to two reasonable-sized bags, usually no larger than 28 inches in size, so making sure what to bring is also crucial.
Check What to Leave at Home
It’s also important to take an inventory of what not to bring. Most cruises do not allow passengers to bring any weapons on board, just in case of disputes, and most boats also don’t allow the use of glass containers on the property. Traffic laws may also apply when on board, such as no drug use, so compliance to special regulations is advised.
Packing Tips for the Cruise
For an easier cruising experience, travelers are encouraged to pack their luggage as lightly as possible. Rolled clothes generally take up less space, and travelers should not bring anything that they don’t need during the cruise. Generally, when packing further items, it’s best to opt for items that are lightweight and durable, making the packing experience much easier.
Choosing Toiletries
Cruising the Mississippi River can sometimes prove difficult when packing toiletries, since they can take up valuable space inside the suitcase. However, travelers should try to choose items that are compact and versatile so they can save on space. This may mean avoiding materials such as cotton wool, as it’s bulkier and more difficult to store in the suitcase.
Souvenirs
Travelers are also encouraged to pack an extra empty bag for souvenirs, as there is no better way to remember the trip than by bringing home a few mementos for loved ones. This could include anything from gifts to trinkets, with the possibility of that item becoming a timeless reminder of the vacation on the Mississippi River.
Early Boarding and Departure
Cruise passengers are also encouraged to allot extra time to board the boat early, so they can also get a jumpstart on shopping around the vessel. With proper planning, knowledge and self-control, travelers can make sure their packing experience is as smooth and hassle-free as possible.
Staying Alert During The Trip
Once onboard and after everything has been properly packed and stowed away, passengers are encouraged to stay alert. Mindful travelers can enjoy their boat ride stress-free by avoiding any last-minute problems. This may mean checking their belongings, securing their luggage and watching out for wildlife during their journey on the river.
Accommodation
Lastly, it’s important to remember to book and bring reservations for any onboard lodging. Hotels usually require proof of reservation, making it imperative that travelers keep any travel documents safe and accessible throughout their cruise.
Essential Documents
Essential documents such as travel itineraries and maps also come in handy when traveling along the river. These documents can help vessel explorers quickly reference their journey and familiarize themselves with the area should they need to use navigational aids on the Mississippi River.
