The Ultimate Cruise Prep Guide No One Tells
Planning a cruise is a super exciting process but there are a ton of little details that can easily slip through the cracks.
In addition to packing and booking excursions, there’s another world of cruise prep tips that seasoned cruisers swear by.
The only thing is this guide is to reveal the unknown secrets that might smoothen, have more fun and less stress on board your cruise.
You’ve seen the no-one-says- twin-cloakroom research, the best-inshore excursions and overrated cruise stops, but what about the precruise musts and idiosyncratic on-board hacks?
So let’s jump right in and get you all set to crush your upcoming adventure!
1. Investigate Port-Specific Entry Procedures
Each port has its own rules, and there are a few that may surprise you with extra visa requirements or documents needed.
Don’t take for granted that your passport is all you’ll need; check in advance for specifics about your destinations.
Countries like Brazil or India, for example, may require a visa to visit, even if you only plan to dock for a day.
It’s also a good idea to have copies of your travel documents in case they’re required while you’re out and about off the vessel.
Do a little research now to spare you some of the stress later on.
2. Make Sure Your Travel Insurance Covers Cruises
Travel insurance policies are not one-size-fits-all, and cruises carry some unique coverage requirements.
Search for policies that cover trip interruption, missed connections and medical evacuation from the ship.
Cruises run on narrow schedules, so missing embarkation or a port stop can get expensive without the right coverage.
Many travelers don’t have this until it’s too late, so purchase a policy that covers cruising.
It is a small cost for the peace that it brings.
3. Most importantly, pack a carry-on with day-one essentials
Once you get on the ship, it could take hours for your checked luggage to be brought to your cabin.
If you’re staying a while, pack a small carry-on with essentials for the first day, like your swimwear, sunscreen, medications, a change of clothes.
That way, you can hit the ground running exploring the ship or lounging at the pool without loitering around.
Be sure to pack your carry-on with necessities like chargers, snacks and travel documents too.
It’s a total game-changer for starting your vacation less stressed.
4. Prep for Onboard Connectivity Limits
Cruise ship Wi-Fi tends to be slow, expensive and unreliable.
Download movies, books, and music playlists before getting on the plane to avoid frustration.
If you need internet for work or emergencies, look for pre-purchase discounts on Wi-Fi packages from your cruise line.
Otherwise, research port stops home to free or inexpensive Wi-Fi hotspots.
Being partially offline can also be a good excuse to truly unplug and unwind.
5. Bring a Power Strip or USB Hub
Cabins typically lack a plethora of outlets, and charging multiple devices can require a bit of planning.
A compact, cruise-approved power strip or USB hub fixes this problem without hogging space.
Just be sure that it doesn’t have a surge protector — they are generally not permitted onboard.
That small addition will keep you from the continual outlet shuffle in your cabin.
It’s particularly helpful if you’re traveling with family or friends who use their own gadgets.
6. Prepare for Motion Sickness, Even If You’re Not Prone to It
As we said in chapter 3, even the best-built ship can feel rocky in a storm.
Consider bringing over-the-counter treatment such as Dramamine or Sea-Bands, just to be on the safe side.
Ginger candies or supplements are another natural choice for shooing away nausea.
If you are especially prone to motion sickness, select a mid-ship cabin on a lower deck.
These things may not be necessary, but you’ll be glad you have them if the seas turn rocky.
7. Verify Cruise Line Drink Policies
Most cruise lines allow a small amount of alcohol or non-alcoholic beverages onboard.
Familiarize yourself with the rules so you don’t find your things confiscated during the embarkation process.
If you purchased a drink package with your cruise, do the math to see if it makes sense based on your personal drinking preferences.
Bringing a reusable water bottle and a couple of your favorite beverages can also be a really good way to save money some times.
Guard your budget with some smart planning, and you can have your fill of refreshing goodies without breaking the bank.
8. Make Your Shore Excursions Unique
Cruise lines offer their excursion packages for convenience, but they tend to be overpriced and overrun with other passengers.
To get more personalized experiences, research independent tours, or plan your own activities.
Local tour-purchase sites, like Viator, also often have better deals and smaller groups.
If you are wandering on your own, be sure to get back to the ship well before departure time.
You surely don’t want to make a mistake of missing the ship in a port stop!
9. Bring Small Bills for Tipping
It’s common to tip on cruises, especially room stewards, bartenders, and shore excursion guides.
Pack a supply of small bills in the local currency for port calls and US dollars for tipping onboard.
Even when gratuities come included in your fare, a little extra appreciation can make a difference.
Plus, tipping early in your cruise can result in better service the remainder of your trip.
It’s an easy way to say thanks to the dedicated crew.
10. Packing Cubes are Essential for Packing Efficiency
Cruise cabins are known for their small size and the fact that there is little room for storage.
Use packing cubes to sort your clothes and to make the most of your drawer and closet space.
Pack different cubes for daywear, formalwear and swimwear so it’s easy to unpack.
They also help make re-packing at the end of your trip easier.
Packing efficiently is vital to maintaining a clean and stress-free cabin.
Final words, The Ultimate Cruise Preparatory Guide No One Mention
Preparing for a cruise is not just about packing your bags, but also making ready for the unanticipated obstacles.
These underrated cruise tips can take your experience from good to grand.
And everything matters from ensuring the necessary requirements for individual ports to having your cabin spick-and-span!
Whether it’s your first cruise or your 10th, this wisdom will help you sail like a seasoned pro.
By taking action, you will spend less time worrying and more time enjoying your vacation.”
Well then are you ready to take off without fear?
Start checking these items off this ultimate cruise prep list, and make this your best trip yet!
