Got a cruise coming up? Before you even start packing, there are a few things you need to take care of now. Getting any of these wrong could cost you time, money, or even ruin your trip.
Let’s go through them and make sure your cruise starts smoothly and stress-free.
1. Check Your Passport Expiration
Before you do anything else, make sure your passport is valid. Many cruise lines won’t let you board if your passport has expired—or if it’s set to expire within the next six months.
The same goes for green cards or other travel documents—you need to make sure they’re up to date.
If you find out your passport or green card has expired, start the renewal process right away. Expedited processing is an option, but it can still take time, so don’t wait until the last minute.
If you can’t get it renewed in time, you might have to reschedule your cruise.
2. Online Check-In
Make your embarkation day faster and smoother by completing your online check-in ahead of time. Most cruise lines allow you to check in a few weeks before your sailing.
Checking in early also lets you reserve your embarkation time slot, so you can avoid long lines and start your vacation stress-free.
3. Sign Up for Cruise Notification
Sign up for cruise notifications to get timely text message updates about any changes to your embarkation time or other important details.
This is especially helpful during hurricane season, or whenever delays are possible—you definitely don’t want to show up at the port only to find your cruise has been delayed. With these alerts, you’ll always know what’s happening and can plan accordingly.
4. Download the Cruise App
Before you even step on the ship, make sure to download your cruise line’s app. Most cruise apps let you book restaurants and activities, check the daily schedule, and even send free texts while onboard.
Some cruise lines let you make reservations before you sail, while others only allow it once you’re on the ship. Either way, downloading the app early gives you a head start.
Popular activities can sell out quickly, so the earlier you book, the better your chances of securing your top choices. Don’t waste your first day on the ship downloading the app—have it ready before you board!
5. Buy Cruise Extras
Booking cruise extras before you board can save you a significant amount of money. This includes beverage packages, specialty dining, WiFi, laundry services, and VIP passes. Cruise lines often offer early bird discounts when you buy these extras ahead of time on the cruise line’s website.
For example, on Royal Caribbean and Celebrity, flash sales can save you up to 35%. And if a better deal comes along, you can usually cancel and rebook at the lower price.
If you want the cruise VIP packages, you need to buy them ahead of time. Carnival’s “Faster to the Fun,” Royal Caribbean’s “The Key,” and Norwegian’s “Priority Access” provide priority boarding, faster tender boat access, and direct guest service.
Buying these extras online before your cruise means less stress, more convenience, and more savings—so you can start enjoying your vacation from day one.
6. Book Shore Excursions
One of the smartest things you can do before boarding is book your shore excursions early. The most popular tours tend to sell out fast, so reserving ahead ensures you get your first choice.
Do a little research and compare prices. Sometimes, independent tour operators are cheaper than the cruise line, but keep in mind that booking through the cruise guarantees you won’t miss the ship if a tour runs late.
Booking early also often means better prices on cruise sponsored excursions, since many cruise lines offer discounts when you reserve ahead of time. Planning your shore excursions in advance lets you lock in your top choices and avoid stress once you’re on board.
7. Check Travel Advisory
Before you go, don’t forget to check the travel advisories for the ports you’ll be visiting. Not all cruise destinations are safe, and conditions can change.
For example, the U.S. Department of State recently upgraded the travel advisory levels for popular cruise ports like the Bahamas and Jamaica.
Checking travel advisories ahead of time helps you prepare, take necessary precautions, and enjoy your cruise safely.
8. Print Luggage Tags
Printing your luggage tags before your cruise is a must. These tags are what allow porters to quickly check in your bags and get them to your cabin. Without them, you could face delays and unnecessary stress right at the start of your vacation.
Always print your tags ahead of time and attach them securely to each bag. It’s also a good idea to print a few extra tags just in case one gets damaged or lost.
And remember: always keep important medications and travel documents in your carry-on, not in your checked luggage.
9. Book Your Hotel and Transfer
Flying in on the day of your cruise is one of the riskiest moves you can make. Delays happen—planes get delayed or canceled, traffic to the port can be unpredictable, and even a small hiccup could make you miss your ship. To avoid that nightmare, plan to arrive at least a day early and stay at a hotel near the cruise port.
When choosing a hotel, ask if they offer shuttle service or transfers to the port. Many hotels near cruise ports have partnerships with shuttle services.
If your hotel doesn’t provide transportation, you can book a private transfer. This is often faster and more reliable than relying on taxis or rideshares like Uber or Lyft, especially on embarkation day when many cruise passengers are trying to get to the port at the same time.
Arriving a day early is a great chance to start your vacation a little early, enjoy a nice dinner near the port, and relax before the cruise officially begins.
10. Download E-Books, Games and Movies Before Your Cruise
One smart move before your cruise is to download e-books, movies, and games at home—especially if you’re traveling with kids. Cruise Wi-Fi is often limited and expensive, and the onboard TV options for kids are usually not great.
By downloading your favorite shows, movies and games in advance, you and your kids will have plenty of entertainment at your fingertips, and you won’t have to spend extra money on cruise Wi-Fi.
11. Shareholder Benefits
If you own shares in the cruise line you’re sailing with, you could qualify for free onboard credit—essentially free spending money to use during your cruise. The amount varies by cruise line and the length of your trip, ranging from $50 to $250 per stateroom, and in some cases, like world cruises, it can go up to $1,000.
For example, Norwegian Cruise Line offers $50 to $250 per stateroom for shareholders who own at least 100 shares and request the credit at least 15 days before sailing.
Carnival Cruise Line provides a similar benefit, giving $50 to $250 in onboard credit for shareholders who own at least 100 shares and submit their request at least 14 days before departure. This also applies to other lines owned by Carnival, including Princess Cruise, Holland America, Seabourn, Cunard, and Costa Cruises.
It’s important to plan ahead so you can request your credit in time—this won’t happen automatically. And if you’re not already a shareholder, you can actually purchase shares before your cruise to take advantage of this perk.
Once approved, the onboard credit can be used for drinks, specialty dining, shore excursions, spa treatments, or shopping; that’s free money just by being a cruise shareholder.
12. Minor Consent Forms
If you’re traveling with a minor without their parents, you’ll need to fill out a Minor Travel Consent Form.
For example, if you’re cruising with your grandchild without the parents, this form is required. Most cruise lines require the form to be notarized, and you can usually find it on the cruise line’s website.
Make sure to handle this well in advance so you have plenty of time to get it completed—waiting until the last minute could create unnecessary stress.
13. Start Planning What to Pack
Start thinking about what to pack as early as possible. Packing for a cruise is different from a regular vacation because you might be visiting destinations with varying weather and temperatures.
Planning ahead also gives you time to buy anything you might be missing. This helps you avoid paying high prices at the cruise ship’s gift shop for basic items you forgot to bring. Early planning ensures you’re prepared, comfortable, and ready to enjoy your cruise from day one.
Cruise Essentials to Buy Before Your Cruise
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Travel Must-Haves
Passport neck wallet – Keeps your passport and travel documents secure and accessible. It also has RFID protection.
Cruise lanyards – A super convenient way to keep your cruise card within easy reach. No more digging through your bag every time you need it! I recommend getting one lanyard per person in your group and choosing different colors so it’s easy to tell them apart.
Anti-theft crossbody bag with anti-pickpocket clip – Genius anti-theft clip and versatile enough for both port days and evenings in the dining room.
Anti-theft crossbody bag with RFID – Padded shoulder straps with RFID lining to safeguard against identity theft.
Insulated water bottles –I don’t like spending money on bottled water, and I always want fresh water in my cabin. I’ll fill my bottle at the buffet or ask my server at dinner, then bring it back so I have water at night. This is my go-to water bottle—I prefer ones without straws since they’re much easier to wash in the cabin sink.
Pashmina – This multi-purpose wrap always earns its spot in my luggage. Use it as an evening wrap, a lightweight plane blanket, or a cover-up when visiting places of worship that require modest dress. I never cruise without one—you’ll be surprised how often it comes in handy.
Cabin Comfort & Organization
Non-surge Cruise power strip– Cabins never have enough outlets (check cruise line rules first).
Magnetic hooks – Super-strong magnetic hooks that attach easily to your cabin walls. They’re perfect for hanging hats, cruise lanyards, goggles, swimsuits, and towels. I personally use the 85+ lb hooks—they’re incredibly sturdy and can even hold backpacks!
Small portable fan – Improves airflow and keeps Inside Cabins from feeling stuffy.
Motion sensor night light – Perfect for Inside Cabins, for when you get up at night to use the bathroom. It also has a magnetic base, so you can easily attach it to your cabin walls.
Toiletries & Laundry
Hanging toiletry bag – Keeps your essentials neat and accessible.
Fabric freshener spray – Fights wrinkles and refreshes clothes between wears.
Travel-size detergent – Handy for washing swimsuits, underwear, and quick-dry clothing in the sink.
TSA-approved travel containers – Easy to pack your lotions, creams, and other liquids without worrying about TSA rules.
Health & Wellness
Anti-seasickness medicine – My go-to meds for anti-seasickness. I take one in the morning on sea days (bring chewables for kids).
Acupressure bands – A natural alternative for seasickness relief. I use this with the anti-seasickness meds.
Packing & Storage
Cruise travel planners– Check out my travel planners, they help you stay organized before and during your trip.
Packing cubes – I never travel without packing cubes! They make packing and unpacking so easy—you can simply slip the entire cube into the cabin closet or drawer. I like to assign a different color to each person so there’s no mix-up.
Foldable duffel bag – I always pack a foldable duffel bag in case I bring home too many souvenirs or do some extra shopping. It doubles as an extra carry-on and barely takes up any luggage space.
Foldable shopping bag – Perfect for shopping at cruise ports, these bags fold up small enough to keep in your purse. I always carry one with me—you never know when you’ll need it! Plus, many countries charge a fee for shopping bags, and I’d much rather use my own than pay extra.
Foldable backpack – Perfect for cruise port days when you need an extra bag. I love that these backpacks are lightweight and fold down small, so you can toss one in your luggage without taking up much space.
Travel luggage scale – I always keep one in my suitcase so I can weigh my bags before heading to the airport. It’s a simple way to avoid overweight baggage fees.
Apple AirTags – I pop one into each of my bags so I can track my luggage for peace of mind. They’re especially helpful if you have a short layover and worry about your suitcase getting left behind.
Beach Essentials
Towel Clips – A simple must-have for pool and beach days! They keep your towels from slipping off lounge chairs, and I never cruise without brining a few in my luggage.
Waterproof phone pouch – Protect your phone from water and sand while still being able to snap photos. I always bring one when cruising the Caribbean or Mediterranean—it’s a lifesaver for beach and pool days.
Striped beach bag with zipper – You’ll need a beach bag with zipper to keep your things secure. I like this one because it’s stylish, has a water bottle holder, keeps belongings secure and has a lot of pockets.
Kid-Friendly Cruise Essentials
Magnetic toys – Cabin walls are magnetic, making these toys perfect for fun, mess-free entertainment. They keep kids busy when you’re in the cabin, especially since cruise TV options for kids can be limited. It’s always best to bring your own toys.
Collapsible beach buckets and toys – You’ll definitely want to bring beach toys if you’re going on a Caribbean cruise! This collapsible set includes foldable buckets, shovels, and sandcastle molds, all packed neatly in one bag. They’re easy to fit in your suitcase without taking up much space.
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