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My main tip is to carry as little around with you as possible. It's actually very liberating being on a ship, where it's pretty difficult to spend cash even if you want to. Even for me, the idea of not having to worry about a wallet, a bunch of keys and a phone all the time is like leaving chains behind.
The main things you should always have with you on the ship are your room key, your charge card (if it's different from the room key) and a copy of the daily programme. In the evenings, you may not need a bag at all, particularly if you can get a friend or companion to carry your lipstick (if you really want to have one to hand) and any similar items - that I find is usually my job. But a small bag or purse will definitely be enough.
During the days on board the ship, much will depend on what you plan to do. I am forever in and out of my cabin, for example changing into and out of gym wear and picking up and dropping off stuff that I've acquired or need. But if you were to go on deck to sunbathe for the entire day and you want to have sarong/wrap, sunscreen, book, hat, water bottle etc. with you, then a tote bag may be easier than trying to carry it all by hand. If it's just a sweater, you can always tie it around your waist rather than carry it in a bag!
As for going ashore, I think the answer is just to dress for whatever you're going to do - and for the weather. It's probably difficult to disguise that you're off a ship unless you go and do something extraordinary, but there's little need to disguise it anyway as you'll have thousands of fellow pax around you. I always carry a backpack for my camera stuff but I'm sure everyone just recognises a cruise ship pax with a backpack on his back.
For days on the ship or going into ports - small zippered purse - I have a Cellini, but it's the same as a Sportsac, but at 1/4 the price. Check out the luggage stores - that's where I got mine. In this I carry, lipstick, kleenex, room key and ID card (I have a small case that you would put business cards in). Never carry any money on the ship, unless I am going to the Casino.
While in the ports, I put my purse in the HAL bag. You dress very "outsoorsy" While in Alaska I wore a pair of cords, turtle-neck T, cotton sweater and gortex jacket. If it gets too warm for either the jacket or sweater you can just put it into your HAL bag. It holds quite a bit. Everyone looks like a tourist, so no need to worry that you will look like one also.
Evenings - I have a black sequin bag and a silver one for Formal nights. The other nights, I just carry a small, either navy or black bag. Doesn't have to match your shoes
Oh, don't forget a hat (toque) and gloves. I can get cold and it's better to have them with you. Also take a small collapsable umbrella. Rains a lot, especially in Juneau and Ketchikan.
Shoes - New Balance every day during the day. Evenings - one pair of black patent and one pair of flat dressy shoes - something you would wear with a skirt or slacks.
Took a bathing suit, but never used the pool - outdoor - too cold - indoor - too cold. even for this heaty Canadian.
Anything else you want to know, just ask.
I hope you enjoy Alaska as much as I did.
Tamara - I sent you a Private Message. If it doesn't come through your e-mail, just click on your Profile and it will be there. Diane
[ 03-25-2004: Message edited by: sympatico ]
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