Getting Ready for Your Cruise Adventure

You've secured your cruise getaway, and now it’s time to plan and prep! This should be an exciting process, not a stressful one, as you look forward to your sailing day! Here’s a handy list to kick off your preparations before you leave home.

Cruise Preparation Checklist

1. Verify your travel documents. Ensure that passports and vital IDs are well within their expiration dates.
2. Complete online check-in. This is essential for smoother boarding. Have your travel documents ready as you’ll need them to get your boarding pass. You can select your arrival time at the port and print luggage tags for your bags.
3. Print your boarding pass, luggage tags, and itinerary to carry with you.
4. Inform family or close friends about your trip.
5. Refill any necessary prescriptions. Running out of essential medication is not ideal.
6. Request a hold on your mail with the Post Office.
7. Arrange kennel services for your pets.
8. Contact your Financial Institutions to set a travel alert on your account. This way, your bank won’t mistakenly freeze your cards due to unusual charges while you’re away.
9. Reach out to your cell phone provider and Dinogo. Ask about calling, texting, and data packages for when you’re onboard and in your destination countries.
10. Plan your transportation to and from your departure port, as well as any hotel stays you might need before or after your cruise.
11. Pack your bags (using these Cruise packing tips)! This is where the real excitement begins, choosing your outfits and essentials for your trip will help make it feel tangible.
12. Explore your ports of call and outline daily activities. This is a perfect time to book shore excursions. Check out these Factors to Consider when Choosing Shore Excursions for valuable tips on making your choices.
13. Make reservations for specialty dining.
14. Schedule spa appointments to secure your preferred times.