The summer is over and now that fall is approaching, you might be thinking about a winter vacation getaway. In the middle of winter with the gray skies and cold weather, a tropical vacation might just be the ticket. A cruise ship can be a delightful way to tour the Caribbean or other tropical waters. You will need to find out what types of travel documents are required for your trip, and if you take medications daily you will also need to find out what restrictions, if any, there are on the ship of your choice.
As on any trip, it is a good idea to have your medications in a travel bag that can be locked. You should always travel with your medications in their original prescription bottles so that there is no question as to who the medication is for. Always prepare to bring more medicine then you will actually need on the trip, in case there are any unforeseen delays and your trip is longer than anticipated. If you plan on flying to the cruise ship port, follow all TSA guidelines for your prescription medications. Many companies sell medicine bags that have a universal TSA lock that allows you to lock your medications while also allowing TSA to inspect them if needed.
If you have a specific medical problem requiring oxygen or injectable medications, you should contact the cruise ship directly. They will most likely have a policy in place, and may be able to assist you in making your medical arrangements. For example they may be able to get you a container for disposal of your injectable medications. If you require oxygen, they ask that you bring more than enough for the length of the cruise as they do not have an extra supply on board. Most cruise ships have rules on how and where the oxygen is stored and ask that you contact guest services for the proper storage of your oxygen tanks.
If you do have special medical needs, always bring your medical records with you, for example a list of your medical conditions, allergies, names and doses of your medications and the name and contact phone number for your physician. If you have all of this information with you it will make it easier for the on board medical staff to assist you in the event that you need medical attention.