A Caribbean cruise can be a wonderful experience. Exotic ports of call. warm tropical weather. But, there are a few packing tips to keep in mind.

Even though the weather is expected to be warm (preferably hot!) you will want to have something to wear for the potentially cool evenings. Even the air-conditioned dining rooms and lounges aboard your cruise ship can feel too cool for your "summer" attire. Tip one for your Caribbean cruise (as with all cruises) be prepared for the unexpected.

Many travelers will want to get a whole new wardrobe of fantastic cruise wear for your vacation because they have "nothing to wear". Relax, you will likely have everything you need right in your closet. Of course, that new killer outfit of cruise wear may simply be a necessity!

As with most cruises, comfortable walking shoes are a must. The magnificent cruise ships can be deceiving in size. And of course most of the shore excursions require some walking. Another important packing tip is: don't buy brand new walking shoes for your cruise. Make sure that your walking shoes are well broken in and comfortable.

Beach and pool attire is acceptable in most of the open air areas of the ship on your Caribbean cruise. For daytime dining rooms and lounges you may require shorts and tops. Shoes and sandals are usually required except in the pool and deck areas mainly for health and safety.

For the formal evenings, you will require special attire. Ladies will want an evening or party gown, a pant suit or two, or a pair of black silky "cocktail" type pants matched with a couple of tops. The latter can take up less packing space and are virtually wrinkle free. They also quite often have an expandable waste (another tip for the marvellous cuisine you'll experience!).Men usually require a dark suit or jacket with tie, or a tuxedo. It's always best to check the specific requirements for your cruise ship in advance. For those of you who would rather not pack formal cruise wear, many cruise ships have rentals available. You should however plan for this well in advance. And of course, there are usually restaurants where casual attire is always welcome.

The rest of the evenings usually call for a more dress casual attire. Sport shirts and trousers for men and more casual dresses, pantsuits, or skirt/slacks/blouses for women are the norm.

When planning your Caribbean cruise as with most travel, an important packing tip is to keep your medications with you in your carry-on luggage. You may not receive your checked luggage for a few hours after boarding the ship. There is also the remote possibility (as with any travel) that your luggage may get lost or misplaced.

Because your luggage may be late in arriving, another packing tip is to include a change of attire in your carry-on luggage. You may wish to get into something more relaxing. (This also gives you two outfits in case - just in case mind you - that your luggage does get misplaced.)

Make sure to pack your binoculars and camera with extra film or digital memory and of course, don't forget your sunscreen! If you should happen to forget the odd item, the shops on board will usually have what you need. Now... sit back and relax! You're all ready to go.