3 Insights Gained from Cruising with Kids

Nothing Beats Free!

When vacationing with kids, I've discovered that cruising offers the best value for your money. With Dinogo’s Free Friends & Family cruise promotion, your kids can join you as the 3rd and 4th guests in your stateroom at no additional cost on select sailings. Honestly, what's better than free?! Plus, kids aged 6 months to 17 years can participate in complimentary youth programs, featuring exciting activities like treasure hunts and circus classes. And there's even more! If you wish to dine at a specialty restaurant on your ship, kids 12 and under can enjoy their meals there for FREE. Cruising with kids makes it easy to maintain your family vacation budget since you can pre-plan almost everything, including your shore excursions.

Involve Your Kids in the Cruise Planning

I've found that getting anxious children involved in the planning process is the best way to ease their worries, regardless of what it entails. Ask them about the destinations they'd like to visit and the activities that excite them. Let them have a say in your cruise destination and help select your stateroom. When booking flights, involve them in picking seats on the plane. Explore the Dinogo YouTube channel together. Map out your destinations and encourage them to research each port of call, including language and currency. Consider getting them an affordable camera and a journal to capture their cruise memories! Allow your kids to help choose shore excursions that everyone will enjoy. If you have smartphones, download the Dinogo iConcierge app to stay connected during the cruise (a nominal one-time fee may apply).

Essential Packing Tips for Kids on a Cruise

I've realized that overpacking is a common mistake when cruising, but mastering the art of packing takes practice. Personally, I find it worthwhile to pay for laundry services during the cruise, especially when traveling with kids, rather than hauling around unworn items. The only items I pack extra are swimwear—no child wants to wear a wet bathing suit, so I recommend packing 2 or 3. Additionally, younger kids will appreciate having a small stuffed animal from home (with their name on the tag) and their own rolling suitcase featuring their favorite cartoon character. If they're old enough, provide them with a packing list to follow independently.

A visit to your local dollar store can yield affordable items such as:

Always remember to pack your swimwear, a pair of shorts, and a t-shirt in your carry-on bag so you can use them before your luggage arrives in your stateroom.