Our cruise to the Bahamas is our big event this year. It was originally scheduled for Labor Day weekend, but then Hurrican Dorian came and plans were changed. So we had to reschedule and was blessed with a date that gave us a Very Merrytime theme and a partial refund! I can’t complain. Now it’s time to pull the suitcases out and overpack for the 3 night adventure. 

This is the perfect time to use The Happy Planner travel stickers. There are countdown to trip stickers, palm trees, lots of geographical hints and my favorite the packing list. Which got me thinking, what do we actually need for this trip. I mean it’s not like we can just put some items in a suitcase and if we forget anything go to the local grocery store. We’re going to literally be out in the middle of the ocean. 

Here are the top five things we know we’ll need for this cruise🙏🏾. 

1. Swimsuits
   Okay, so it looks like Target has stepped their game up once again. We follow a lot of Target influencers on IG and it looks like swimsuits are on clearance. Of course, we went in (I had to get groceries anyway – lol).  Target’s latest line of swimsuits are made for various sizes and shapes. They even have tops that focus on cup size which many women look for. I actually saw a suit at a department store I fell in love with. But knowing I can get the same style from Target for a much cheaper price just makes my day. They also have cute styles for teenagers. So both Rhi and I can get a couple of swimsuits and not break the bank.
2. Sunscreen/Sunglasses
   Many people think African Americans do not need sunscreen as our skin is made for the sun. WRONG! The sun’s rays can still cause damage to our skin. Being sure to have the correct level of SPF protection is key to enjoying a day in the sun. Black Girl Sunscreen is a product that is free from minerals and zinc oxide, and uses melanin-nourishing ingredients like avocado oil and cocoa butter. It has been recommended by a one of our favorite family travelers, The Traveling Child
   Living in Florida we know, no matter how brown the skin, it can still burn. If you’re like us and looking for a sunscreen lotion that will protect and not leave residue, join us in trying Black Girl Sunscreen – let’s compare our findings.
3. Sundresses & Sandals
   Our favorite store to buy sundresses is OLD NAVY! It’s winter in the majority of the nation, but still 80 degrees and sunny here in Florida, so hopefully we’ll be able to find some cute items.
4. Electrical outlet expanders
   While watching a few cabin tours of the Disney ships, we’ve noticed there aren’t a lot of outlets. With all of the technology families have these days, you’d think there would be more. But these ships were built at the beginning of the i-generation. Hopefully the ships that will premier in a few years will have more electrical outlets. But until then, be sure to pack USB extenders as power strips/surge protectors are not allowed.
5. Cash
   This needs a post-it-note/reminder in planner as well as in phone for me. We don’t always carry cash with us. But I’m sure we’ll see something we want when in Nassau, and definitely plan to bring something back for family. 
   

Clearly we’ve gone down a few YouTube holes these past few weeks. Check out some of our favorite videos that have shared an idea of a Disney Cruise experience.

Of course there’s AJ who’s our friend in our head. Sidebar – does anyone else wave or yell to the tv when the Disney Food Blog videos start, or is that just us. Hmmmmmm Well, Disney Food Blog shared two videos about tips to know before cruising. DFB 1 and DFB 2 We love AJ and always make note of her tips.

The Jones Family videos are another binge worthy option. They’ve gone on so many Disney Cruises that we feel we need to catch up. Who know’s we may take advantage of the booking another cruise option before leaving the ship. Here’s one of their blogs on the same ship we’re going on. Jones Family Vlog 

And what are we looking forward to most – CASTAWAY CAY!!! AK Adventures shares a great day on Disney’s private island and some of the activities you can enjoy in addition to beach time.  

If you’ve been on a Disney Cruise and would like to share some tips and fun activities, please do below.

xoxo
~Kelli