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What to pack before island hopping across the South Pacific with Carnival

Whether you’re embarking from Sydney or Brisbane, we think all Aussies can agree that very few holidays capture that quintessential tropical lifestyle like Carnival Cruise Line South Pacific expeditions.

That long-awaited dream of island hopping across vast archipelagos and relaxing on an epic cruise in one itinerary is why many Aussies of all ages choose one of Carnival Cruise Line all-inclusive South Pacific Cruises.

From scuba diving in pristine waters to learning from local cultures and soaking up the best of the tropics, there are many reasons to set sail this season. We’re here to outline a few of those and give you a quick packing list so you’re well-prepared for the trip of a lifetime.

Remember, you will discover not only the best of idyllic destinations like New Caledonia’s Loyalty Island, Vanuatu’s Port Vila, and the Fijian capital of Suva. There’s also a long list of onboard activities to consider.

Picture enjoying a range of meals, from deli-style sandwiches to ice cream. If you’re travelling with kids, they’ll love Green Eggs and Ham Breakfast, Turtles, and Space Cruisers. For adults, indulge in a dining experience at Fahrenheit 555, hand-crafted cocktails at the Alchemy Bar, or rum-based concoctions at the RedFrog Rum Bar.

From Showtime evenings with dancing and singing waiters to the laughs at Punchliner Comedy Club, there’s never a dull moment. As such, you’ll need to think carefully about what to pack before island hopping with Carnival Cruise Line.

Clothes

We know, obvious. But you’d be surprised how easy it is to forget that one essential item and end up stressing the entire holiday. That’s why we’re starting this list by reminding you to think all seasons when you’re stuffing your suitcase.

You’ll need casual daywear to live your best life on and off board, so don’t forget essentials like those sandals and, if you really want to match the vibe, a few button-up Hawaiian shirts to rock on the ship.

Smart casual is the way to go. Whether it’s Carnival Splendor or Carnival Luminosa that’s your host for the trip, you’ll want to look good when you’re mingling onboard.

We’re not expecting you to pack a tuxedo, but with the array of sophisticated cruise activities on board, some great-looking wear will get you far.

Themed parties like the 80s Rock-N-Glow Party are common, so check to see in advance what spirit you’ll need to channel. Otherwise, a few nice outfits will get you right into the ship’s nightlife.

As for footwear. Well, those trusty Birkenstocks will be valuable, but don’t go thinking that’s all you need. For a cruise packed with activities, you’ll want variety. Comfortable sandals or thongs are a must for casual dining and family fun, from the Seuss-a-Palooza Parade to splashing at the waterpark. Sneakers are key for active events, whether you’re playing mini-golf or keeping up with the kids at Camp Ocean.

You’ll also want a pair of dress shoes for upscale dining, perfect for indulging in High Tea at Sea or savouring a gourmet experience at The Chef’s Table. Finally, you’ll want some swimwear. Not only will you visit some of the world’s greatest beaches, but the Green Lightning Waterslide and movies by the pool are also part of the fun. Make sure you’re all set to make a splash without looking like a fish out of water.

Toiletries

In all honesty, toiletries are less of a concern because there will be shops onboard in case you’ve forgotten anything. But that’s not to say you should overlook packing your essentials.

Think about how many days you’ll be away for. Carnival Cruise Line offers South Pacific expeditions ranging from 7 to 11 days, so consider what kind of toiletries you’ll need to keep comfortable and clean throughout. After all, the more comfortable you are, the less stress you’ll feel, and the more your trip will resonate with you.

Maybe you’ve got some great high-end perfume you think will complete your look before heading to the adults-only Serenity Cruise Retreat and its dedicated nightclub. Or perhaps maintaining your skincare routine is a must, especially after a day of salty sea air and sand.

Reading Material

Tech’s great, but sometimes you can’t beat a good book. Whether you’re unwinding after a lively Seuss-a-Palooza Story Time, creating memories at the Build-a-Bear Workshop at Sea, or soaking up the fun of Seuss at Sea with the kids, a book could be your perfect sidekick.

Imagine flicking through the pages, maybe something light and travel-themed, before your relaxing session at Cloud 9 Spa or as you snack on some deli-style sandwiches or specialty Indian food from the buffet. It’s also a great way to relax between rounds of trivia, bingo, or a roll of the dice at the casino.

Pack a book you love or one you’re excited to read. It’s the perfect downtime companion as you juggle the spa, kids’ activities, and all the food and entertainment on board. So go on, make room for that book, and get lost in another world as you sail on your ultimate Carnival adventure.

Ready to take a dive into a South Pacific adventure with Carnival Cruise Line? Get a head start by checking out the Carnival Hub App and pre-purchasing Wi-Fi packages, drinks packages, shore excursions, specialty dining, and spa treatments. What are you waiting for? Book online and onboard your next adventure with Carnival Cruise.

Chris Singh

Chris Singh is an Editor-At-Large at the AU review, loves writing about travel and hospitality, and is partial to a perfectly textured octopus. You can reach him on Instagram: @chrisdsingh.