Happy Monday Everyone!!!
We only have 33 Monday's to go.
There is something to be said about last minute spontaneous travel. It can give a big kick to your adrenaline, and could save you money if you are lucky enough to find that last minute deal.
Clearly though, when I start off my post saying we have 33 Mondays to go, I not going to be giving you tips about a last minute, awesome priced, hurry up and pack we're catching the next plane type of trip. Nope, I am going to be giving you a tip about exactly the opposite.
'The best time to shop for your off season cruise'
This is where my OCVPD (Obsessive Compulsive Vacation Planning Disorder) kicks in. I'm sure you all know that we are sailing during the dead of winter. What you may not know, is just how difficult it is to find cruise weather clothes and beach time necessities that time of year. Speaking as someone who has been there, done that and have the t-shirt (actually sweat shirt) to prove it, my only saving grace was the internet, and even that was like trying to buy a water proof camera on
Castaway Cay (for new cruisers, who may not get the reference, it is similar to buying a bottle of water at Disney World).
With summer just getting underway, sales for your summer time must haves are popping up. Now is a perfect time to get out and get everything you are going to need for the cruise. For those who will be traveling with kiddo's don't forget to factor in the guaranteed growth spurt.
If you are reading this and thinking 'Tink, I haven't even made my flight plans yet, how am I supposed to know what I am going to need to pack?' , it's okay, I have you covered. The things you will want to be looking for (either now or through out the summer when you see a good sale) are:
- Swimsuits for everyone (at least 2 pairs....I know it is a short cruise, but no one likes to head back to the room to get changed for more Aquaduck time and only have a wet suit to put on....believe me, those take FOREVER to dry)
- Swimsuit cover up
- Waterproof cameras or something to waterproof your device
- Sunscreen, sunscreen and more sunscreen
- Bug bands (mosquito repellent wrist bands)
- Water shoes
- Snorkel gear
- Shorts and sundresses
- Flip flops or sandals (if those are seasonal item in your area)
and if you are anything like me and you have been “ordered” to take all precautions necessary to avoid sun contact,
10.
Rash guard (mine are in the long sleeve variety!)
Now, if you happen to miss all of the great deals at the start of summer, you don't need to worry. In 2.5 – 3 months everything will go on sale again for the end of summer close outs. But to be safe, I would start looking closer to the 2.5 months mark, because when they sell out, they won't reorder until well after our cruise.
Have a great Memorial Day and a wonderful rest of your week.
~Tink~