Deployment: Visiting Ports
While deployed you’re going to get port calls. One of the most exciting parts of your Navy career is visiting the world. Bring as many memories as you can home, you’ll regret it if you don’t.
You’re going to want to make sure you have a few things on hand and keep in mind:
First, you don’t want to miss ships movement, be sure to wear a watch and plan your trip wisely.
Secondly, having a backpack is useful for keeping your belongings secure, all in one place, and provide room to pack any extra things you might need throughout the day. Remember, you can’t walk on or off the ship with open toed shoes, so if you’re somewhere warm and want a pair of flip flops you’ll have to pack them with you.
Third, there are things to remember when going somewhere you’ve never been before as well. The sun’s heat is much more intense in some places. Your body might not be used to the environment, and you don’t want to go back to the ship sunburned or end up dehydrated.
A little planning can make you’re travels around the world more enjoyable.
Below are our recommendations for when you pull into your next port.
BY USING THE LINKS PROVIDED ON OUR PAGE, YOU ARE SUPPORTING THE SALTY RACK SO WE CAN CONTINUE TO GROW & OFFER RESOURCES TO SERVICE MEMBERS AND THEIR FAMILIES.sunscreen/chapsticks
Wearing uniforms and working on the ship you might not get a lot of sunlight while deployed. If you pull into port in a place with a hot climate, you will especially need the extra protection when you’re out exploring. Don’t forget some sunscreen and chapstick, it is not fun returning to work when you’re sunburned.
passport holder
You must bring your passport on deployments, not just your military ID. A pass port holder is very helpful to bring along for port visitations.
Bags
Having a nice backpack or bag goes a long way. You’ll want to buy souvenirs to take home. As well as carry extra shoes, food, passport/wallet, a camera, and anything else you may need while you explore around. It will make it really hard if you have to try to carry all your stuff around all day and you won’t have everything you need with you if you don’t have a bag.
You’ll want to find a bag that works best for you — where it fits all your needs and it won’t be to heavy or a pain to have around.
cameras
I had a polaroid camera with me while I was deployed was so happy I brought it. The only thing I would have done differently is bring more film. Phone cameras will do, but you will be happy to bring a camera with you to capture all your memories on deployments.
I still bring out all my polaroids from when I was overseas to show people when they come over.
chargers
Keeping your phone charged very important while in port. You’ll need your phone to be able to call the ship or contact someone if an emergency happens. Even if you leave the ship with a full charge, it is really likely your phone will die before you make it back to your rack. Be sure to bring a charged battery pack with you.
footwear
In port you don’t know how long you’re going to be on your feet or how far you’re going to walk. Making sure to have right shoes can vastly improve your time. I recommend not wearing your issued shoes or boots the navy gave you while you’re out having fun. Get some good walking shoes or flip flops for the beach, it will be worth every penny.
Headwear
Sunscreen can do wonders, but if you’re in a hot climate the sun can be very strong. Bringing a sun hat can help protect you’re head and eyes from UV rays.
If you’re somewhere with a cooler climate, bringing a ball cap or beanie is still a good idea.
glasses
I can’t leave the house without my sunglasses with me on a regular basis, let alone deploy around the world without them. I highly advise you bring some glasses with you as well.
watches
“Liberty call” is music to a sailors ears. But you must not miss ships movement. I 100% recommend wearing a watch to make sure you get to the ship on time and keep track of how long you’re gone. You can’t always count on your phone and, as I’m sure you know, when you’re in the military, being on time is very important.
