If your gratuities have been included with your package additional tipping is up to you. However, if you have excellent service from your cabin steward it won’t hurt to leave a little something extra.  It doesn’t have to be cash, be creative.

If you’ve purchased a drink package don’t double tip. Most big cruise lines automatically add a service charge to your alcoholic beverages. If you’re not a drinker, it’s best to pay as you go. 

Don’t overpack. That seems impossible sometimes, but you’ll likely buy souvenirs in port.    Most ships can launder items at a minimal cost.  Check your cruise line for pricing details.

Download your cruise line’s chat app. This is a great way to make friends before boarding, ask questions about themed nights, special events and ports of call.  You’ll likely make friends you can cruise with again.

Take a sticky notepad and pen. Cell service can be spotty out in the open ocean.  A sticky note is a great way to let others in your cabin know where you’ll be. 

Your ship is made of steel. Take advantage of the opportunity for more storage by using magnetic hooks. Hang your lanyard, purse, and hats that would normally take up space elsewhere.

Sunscreen, sunscreen, sunscreen. You can’t have enough of it.

Start vacationing as soon as you’re onboard. Take a tour of the ship on embarkation day.  Your luggage will be delivered to your stateroom.  The buffet is usually open.

Before your trip begins check with your cell service provider to see if they have a vacation rate. Keeping in touch with loved ones or uploading photos to social media can get expensive if you don’t have the right plan. Most cell service providers have a one-time fee for vacationing outside of the US.

Don’t skip reading your cruise daily planner. Keep up to date with events and other happenings on the ship each day.

Purchase excursions before cruising. You can purchase on the ship but will pay more or space may not be available.

For those prone to sea sickness consider seeing your physician for a prescription. If you can’t get in before your trip, over the counter “Bonine” is a great option.  It has a less drowsy effect.

Download books, movies, games before your trip. This is especially helpful if you’re not feeling up to getting out of your stateroom. 

Always, always, always pack your medications and travel documents in your carry-on.

Consider investing in travel hangers. They fold up to the size of your palm and extend to fit child or adult clothing.

Don’t wait until the last minute to head back to the ship. The cruise lines keep a very tight schedule, and you may find the ship has left port without you.

To freshen up your room or luggage consider air freshener clips.

Use hair clips for holding curtains or securing your towel to a chair. Whether you have a balcony stateroom or are lounging on the deck, the wind can cause you to lose your towel.  Binder clips also work well, or you can purchase clips specifically for this purpose.

Make copies of all your travel documents, including passport/birth certificate and government issued ID. In the event you lose the originals outside of the country you will be thankful for the backup. 

Let your banking institution and credit card companies know you’re traveling. That’s usually easy but it’s important to have a reminder.  One that people forget is to let your embassy know you are going to be traveling outside of the country.  Here is a link to STEP – The Smart Traveler Enrollment Program. It is free, has important world updates and provides an extra layer of security when traveling outside the US.

https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/before-you-go/step.html

Remember to take advantage of everything your cruise line has to offer.  Don’t be afraid to ask the crew for recommendations.  They’re your best resource.

Bon Voyage!