Not sure what you can bring on a cruise? Before you start packing, check out this guide to items you can’t bring onboard, from prohibited items to common packing mistakes. Save time, avoid delays, and make sure your cruise starts smoothly.
Category Archives: Cruise
You Booked a Cruise – Now What?
Travels with Mickey Cruises Disney Planning & Packing About Cruises Disney Planning & Packing About More than 2 results are available in the PRO version (This notice is only visible to admin users) You Booked a Cruise—Now What? 15 Things to Do After Booking Your Cruise This post may contain affiliate links. This means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through these links, at no additional cost to you. I only share products I personally use, genuinely recommend, or believe will help make your cruise travel easier and more enjoyable. Thank you for supporting Travels With Mickey! You booked the cruise! 🎉 The countdown is officially on, and now comes the fun part—planning everything that will make your cruise vacation even better.But if this is your first cruise, you may be wondering, “What am I supposed to do now?”Booking your cruise is just the beginning. From checking your travel documents and completing online check-in to researching your ports, making dining and excursion reservations, and figuring out what to pack, there are several things you’ll want to take care of before embarkation day.And trust me, you don’t want to wait until the last minute. Some of the most popular shore excursions, specialty restaurants, spa appointments, and onboard activities can fill up quickly.Whether this is your first cruise or you’re a seasoned cruiser, having a plan after you book can make the entire experience smoother—and a lot less stressful.So grab your calendar, start that cruise countdown, and let’s go through 15 things you should do after booking your cruise so you can spend less time worrying about the details and more time looking forward to setting sail! 🚢 Double-Check Your Cruise Booking Information One of the first things you should do after booking your cruise is carefully review all of your reservation details. Make sure your name, date of birth, cruise dates, ship, itinerary, cabin category, and stateroom number are correct.Pay close attention to your name and date of birth, especially if you’re traveling internationally. Your cruise reservation should match your passport or other required travel documents exactly. It’s much easier to correct an error now than when you arrive at the cruise terminal.Also check your departure port, number of guests, dining preferences, and any special requests included with your reservation.If you notice a mistake, contact your cruise line or travel advisor as soon as possible. Don’t assume that an incorrect detail can simply be fixed when you arrive.A few minutes spent reviewing your cruise booking now can save you a lot of stress later! Check Your Passport and Cruise Travel Documents Make sure your passport and other required cruise boarding documents are current and valid for your upcoming cruise. Passport requirements can vary depending on your itinerary and cruise line, so don’t wait until the last minute to check.Pay particular attention to your passport’s expiration date. Some international destinations require your passport to be valid for several months beyond your travel dates, and some cruises may have additional documentation requirements.It’s also a good idea to review your cruise line’s specific documentation requirements and make copies or secure digital backups of important travel documents.For a complete guide to the documents you may need, check out What Cruise Documents Do You Need to Board?before you set sail. Mark Your Calendar With Important Cruise Planning Reminders Once your cruise is booked, add important cruise planning deadlines and reminders to your calendar. This is one of the easiest ways to stay organized and make sure you don’t miss anything important before embarkation day.”Mark your calendar with your online check-in date, final payment deadline, shore excursion booking window, specialty dining reservations, spa appointments, and any cruise line-specific deadlines.It’s also helpful to set reminders for things like booking flights and hotels, arranging transportation to the cruise port, checking passport expiration dates, and completing any required travel forms.Don’t rely on trying to remember everything as your cruise gets closer. A few calendar reminders now can save you from scrambling at the last minute—and help make your cruise vacation much more stress-free! Download the Cruise Line’s App and Join the Loyalty Program One of the first things you should do after booking a cruise is download your cruise line’s mobile app. The app will often become your go-to resource before and during your cruise, giving you access to important booking information, online check-in, daily schedules, dining options, shore excursions, onboard activities, and more.Once you’ve downloaded the app, take a few minutes to explore it and make sure your cruise reservation is linked correctly. Some cruise lines also allow you to make dining, excursion, entertainment, and other reservations directly through the app.While you’re at it, join the cruise line’s loyalty program if you haven’t already. Most cruise lines offer free loyalty programs that allow you to earn points or cruise credits and receive benefits as you sail more often. Even if this is your first cruise, joining before you sail can ensure your account is set up and ready to track your cruise.It’s never too early to start earning those cruise loyalty perks! Read more: Celebrity Cruises Captain’s Club Consider Purchasing Cruise Travel Insurance Once your cruise is booked, it’s a good idea to consider purchasing travel insurance for your cruise. While no one wants to think about something going wrong before or during their vacation, unexpected situations can happen—and a cruise is often a significant investment.Depending on the policy you choose, cruise travel insurance may provide coverage for things such as trip cancellation or interruption, travel delays, lost or delayed luggage, medical emergencies, and other unexpected expenses.If you’re considering travel insurance, don’t wait until the week before your cruise to look into it. Some policies have time-sensitive benefits or coverage requirements, so purchasing a policy soon after making your initial trip payment may give you more options.Be sure to read the policy carefully and understand what is—and isn’t—covered before you purchase. Your cruise line may offer travel insurance, but it’s also worth comparing it withContinueContinue reading “You Booked a Cruise – Now What?”
Celebrity Cruises Specialty Restaurants: Unique Dining Experiences
Specialty Restaurants Le Petit Chef™ The world-renown artists of Skullmapping have reached a true pinnacle of their custom 3D table animation art form. This dining experience is beautifully choreographed with an elegant menu created by their Michelin Star Chef. Le Petit Chef, only offered on Celebrity Cruises, is simply one of the most unique dining events in the world. Cost: $60.00/guest Dress code: Smart casual Available on Eclispe, Equinox, Silhouette, Reflection and Solstice, Millennium, Summit, Infinity, Constellation, Edge, Beyond, Apex and Ascent Sample menu Murano – Dinner Murano has both the refined flavors and the enticing ambiance of a classic French Continental restaurant, only at sea! With its dark wood, private booths, and smaller tables, it offers an intimate atmosphere that encourages conversation as you wait for your meal, which is prepared with great care by world-class chefs. The menu features many items found in French restaurants ashore. It includes pork belly with parsnip purée, caramelized apples, calvados jus, chateaubriand steak for two, and an herb-crusted lamb rack. For a more flamboyant presentation, order the lobster tail and watch your waiter flambee it in cognac, right at your table. Make sure you sample their expansive selection of artisanal cheeses, choose a fine wine from the extensive list of French and American favorites and of course, the fabulous dessert souffle. A few of my favorite menu items are the Five-Spice Crusted Cervena Venison Loin, the Porcini & Morel Risotto and Creamy Maine Lobster Bisque. Cost: $60.00/adult, $10/child Dress code: Smart casual Available on Eclispe, Equinox, Silhouette, Reflection and Solstice Murano Tasting The á la carte tasting menu takes diners on a culinary journey that is nothing short of exquisite. Guests can expect a gourmet adventure that unfolds in four courses, with each course offering a choice between two dishes. Murano’s á la carte tasting menu promises an unforgettable dining experience, with each plate being a testament to the chef’s skillful techniques and dedication to culinary innovation. Cost: $99/guest Dress code: Smart casual Available on Eclispe, Equinox, Silhouette, Reflection and Solstice Tuscan Grille Dinner Here you will find rustic elegance with a contemporary, minimalistic edge. Guests dining in Tuscan Grille will enjoy a lively, sophisticated atmosphere, featuring iconic Italian dishes with a modern twist. The fresh, original menu features handmade pasta, artisanal salumi, fish, butcher cut meats, and USDA Prime dry aged steaks. You will also have a regional Italian wine menu featuring authentic Italian cocktails and beers. Cost: $55/adult, $10/child Dress code: Smart casual Available on Eclispe, Equinox, Silhouette, Reflection and Solstice, Millennium, Summit, Infinity and Constellation Lawn Club Grill – Dinner On the top deck, next to a half-acre of real grass, the Lawn Club Grill offers a classic backyard barbecue experience while you are at sea. Here you can enjoy panoramic views, along with some tremendously appealing food. You can create a memorable dining experience from the diverse menu that includes a gourmet salad bar, filet mignon, lamb chops, Tandoori chicken, shrimp, scallops, and Atlantic salmon, one of the Celebrity chefs will grill everything for you. Be sure to add delicious sides like lobster mac and cheese, gourmet baked beans and dirty rice. For dessert, you can’t go wrong with the stellar blueberry cobbler or apple crumble. Cost: Lunch: $30/adult onboard, enquire about child prices. Dinner:$60/adult and $10/child Dress code: Smart casual Available on Silhouette and Reflection Sushi on Five The Asian-influenced decor that echoes the elegant simplicity of the dishes on the menu, Sushi on Five is a must-try for all fans of Pacific Rim cuisine. Whether you’re an experienced sushi-eater or a first-timer, there are plenty of outstanding choices. Some of the most popular options include Udon Noodles and Seared Shrimp, Kobe Beef Ramen Sliders and a diverse mix of delicious sushi rolls, including Spicy Ahi Tuna, Seared Scallops, and Alaskan Snow Crab. To complement your meal, order one of the outstanding specialty cocktails, like the Asian Pear Smash, Japanese beer, or some premium or ultra-premium sake. For dessert, enjoy Green Tea Tiramisu or Caramelized Ginger Bread! Cost: A la Carte Dress code: Smart casual Sample Menu Available on Eclispe, Equinox, Silhouette, Reflection and Solstice, Millennium, Summit, Infinity and Constellation Eden Where dining is taken to new and exciting places The cuisine and wine list at Eden Restaurant are rooted in nature and draw inspiration from the regions Celebrity visits throughout the world. Descend into Eden Restaurant and enjoy a selection of appetizers, entrees, and desserts, while watching our chefs put their finishing touches on each culinary creation in the beautiful open kitchen. The featured dishes include roasted Carabineros shrimp from Spain, sheep’s milk ricotta gnocchi with smoked pecorino cheese, as well as duet of filet mignon and mini short ribs wellington. These expertly executed dishes are as beautiful as they are delicious. There are three different menus in Eden….a dinner menu, a tasting menu and a plant-based menu. You can view all of them on the website linked above. Onboard dining price: $85/guest a la carte dinner, $120/guest tasting menu Dress code: Smart casual Available on Edge, Apex, Beyond and Ascent Eden Cafe Eden’s the three stories of windows bring in the shimmering morning light to create a bright and airy atmosphere. At breakfast, try the signature, freshly baked to order Cinnamon Roll served with Royal Icing with your favorite specialty coffee. Want something a little heartier to start your day? Try the Steak and Egg Bagel. Want a healthier start? Go for the Steel Cut Oatmeal with Almonds, Quinoa and Honey or sink your teeth into the Turkey with Egg White and Spinach Panini. Lunch brings a new mood to Eden as the light through the windows changes as well as bringing a new menu to Eden Café. Choose from a variety of items, including salads that range from Build Your Own (featuring all your favorite gourmet salad ingredients) to the Lentil Quinoa Bowl with antibiotic-free chicken, quinoa, brown rice, tomato, sofrito, kale, and spinach. After your salad, choose from an incredible assortment of sandwiches and paninis, includingContinueContinue reading “Celebrity Cruises Specialty Restaurants: Unique Dining Experiences”
Celebrity Cruises Premium Access: Is It Worth It?
Travels with Mickey Cruises Disney Planning & Packing About Cruises Disney Planning & Packing About More than 2 results are available in the PRO version (This notice is only visible to admin users) Celebrity Cruises Premium Access: Is It Worth It? This post may contain affiliate links. This means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through these links, at no additional cost to you. I only share products I personally use, genuinely recommend, or believe will help make your cruise travel easier and more enjoyable. Thank you for supporting Travels With Mickey! Updated July 2026: Celebrity Cruises has expanded its Premium Access program, giving guests more ways to customize their cruise vacation. With three package options now available and some benefits changing after August 1, 2026, it’s worth understanding exactly what’s included before you book.Whether you’re hoping to breeze through embarkation, stay connected with Premium Wi-Fi, or enjoy specialty dining throughout your sailing, this guide covers everything you need to know about Celebrity Cruises Premium Access, including what’s included, current pricing, and whether it’s worth the extra cost. What Is Celebrity Cruises Premium Access? Premium Access is an optional pre-cruise package that adds a collection of premium perks and time-saving benefits to your vacation. Depending on which package you choose, benefits may include Premium Wi-Fi, complimentary room service, priority embarkation, faster luggage delivery, premium beverages, and unlimited specialty dining.The program is designed to help you spend less time waiting in line and more time enjoying your vacation from the moment you arrive at the cruise terminal.Unlike drink or dining packages, Premium Access focuses on convenience, upgraded services, and making your overall cruise experience even smoother. What’s New for 2026? Celebrity Cruises has expanded Premium Access from a single package into three different options, allowing guests to choose the level of amenities that best fits their vacation style.There are also two important changes to note. For sailings departing after August 1, 2026, these benefits are no longer included: Welcome lunch in the Main Dining Room on embarkation day Reserved seating in the main theater While those perks have been removed, the core Premium Access benefits remain the same. Premium Access Package Options Premium Access: Wi-Fi & More Perks The entry-level package focuses on convenience and connectivity.It includes: Premium Wi-Fi for two devices Unlimited complimentary room service (delivery fees and gratuities are waived) Early access at the terminal. Regardless of your assigned check-in time, arrive from 11am and head to the Premium Access lane (not the Retreat line) to board. Priority luggage delivery to your stateroom. Leave your luggage at the convenient designated Premium Access drop point on arrival. Priority departure from ship to shore in ports that require tender service. Instructions will be provided once you begin your cruise. Express luggage service during debarkation 40% off a Digital Photo Packages (on packages of 50 digital photos and up). (Valid one time only) 20% off an Exclusive Photo Session Photo Package $90 off Spa services with a minimum spend of $300. One complimentary Bingo card with the purchase of a 3-card Bingo pack, redeemable once onboard Starting price: From $40 per guest, per day, although pricing varies by sailing and promotions. Premium Access: Drinks + Wi-Fi & More Perks This package includes everything above, plus the Premium Drink Package, making it a great option for guests who already planned to purchase upgraded beverages.The Premium Drink Package includes unlimited: Premium cocktails Wines by the glass Craft and premium beers Soda Specialty coffees Fresh juices Bottled water Starting price: From $130 per guest, per day. Premium Access: Dining + Drinks + Wi-Fi & More Perks This is Celebrity’s most comprehensive Premium Access package. It includes everything in the previous tier, plus unlimited specialty dining throughout your cruise, including lunch on sea days where available. Specialty dining included every night of your sailing and lunch on sea days. All specialty dining experiences and restaurants are fully included—Enjoy premium dining venues such as Chef’s Table, Dinner on the Edge, Le Voyage, and Omakase Dinner Experiences with no extra fees or upcharges. Depending on your ship, participating venues may include: Le Voyage Fine Cut Steakhouse Rooftop Garden Grill Raw on 5 Eden Restaurant Chef’s Table Dinner on the Edge Omakase Dinner Experience Restaurant availability varies by ship and itinerary, and reservations remain subject to availability.Starting price: From $205 per guest, per day. Luminae is exclusive to Retreat guests, and Blu is for Aqua and Retreat guests only; both are excluded from the package. Premium Access Comparison Feature Wi-Fi & More Drinks + Wi-Fi Dining + Drinks + Wi-Fi Premium Wi-Fi (2 devices) ✓ ✓ ✓ Complimentary room service ✓ ✓ ✓ Early terminal access ✓ ✓ ✓ Priority luggage delivery ✓ ✓ ✓ Priority tender service ✓ ✓ ✓ Express debarkation ✓ ✓ ✓ Premium Drink Package ✗ ✓ ✓ Unlimited specialty dining ✗ ✗ ✓ Who Is Premium Access Best For? Premium Access is ideal for travelers who value convenience and want to maximize their time onboard. It may be worth considering if you: Want to board the ship as early as possible. Plan to stream, work remotely, or stay connected with Premium Wi-Fi. Prefer having your luggage delivered to your stateroom as quickly as possible. Have several tender ports on your itinerary. Already planned to purchase a Premium Drink Package or specialty dining package. For many guests, bundling these benefits together can offer better value than purchasing them separately. Who Might Want to Skip It? Before purchasing Premium Access, take a moment to review what’s already included with your cruise. You may not get the best value if you: Are staying in The Retreat, where many Premium Access benefits are already included. Booked an All Included fare that already includes Premium Wi-Fi. Receive overlapping benefits through your Captain’s Club status. Are sailing from a port where priority embarkation isn’t available. Celebrity recommends checking your stateroom benefits and loyalty perks before purchasing so you don’t pay for amenities you already have. ImportantContinueContinue reading “Celebrity Cruises Premium Access: Is It Worth It?”
Celebrity Cruises – The Retreat
What is the Retreat and what does it include? The Retreat is an exclusive, all-inclusive suite experience. It includes a dedicated Retreat team, a private restaurant Luminae, an exclusive loungenand so much more. All guests of The Retreat are treated to a cruise vacation that begins at a reserved pre-boarding area for expedited, escorted service onto your ship. If the ship is not ready for embarkation, there will be drinks and snacks available for all suite guests. Suite accommodations: The Retreat includes all suites Private restaurant: Luminae at The Retreat Exclusive lounge: The Retreat Lounge (or Michael’s Club, on non-revolutionized ships) Exclusive sundeck: The Retreat Sundeck (on Edge Series and revolutionized ships) Retreat Butler and team All Included: Premium drinks and Premium Wi-Fi (all guests in suite) Room Service: Full in-suite breakfast, lunch, dinner service, and daily delights. Early embarkation and priority disembarkation: Priority departure and embarkation at most destinations, including those that require tendering In room Minibar: Complimentary stocked minibar What is Luminae at The Retreat? At Luminae, you will find cuisine not offered anywhere else onboard. The restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch (sea days) and dinner. Opening times very based on itinerary. Please check your Celebrity Today for service hours once onboard. All menus have been expertly crafted by Michelin-starred chefs using globally sourced ingredients. You’ll also enjoy complimentary signature dishes created by the Global Culinary Brand Ambassador, renowned chef Daniel Boulud. Can children dine at Luminae? Yes, all guests of The Retreat may dine at Luminae. Can guests of The Retreat invite friends and family to dine in Luminae? Yes, only guests of The Retreat may invite friends and family to dine at Luminae for an additional fee. Reservations are based on availability only. Speak with the Maitre’d for availability and cost. Is Specialty Dining included for guests of The Retreat? Specialty Dining is included for guests of the following Suites: Iconic Suite, Edge Villa, Reflection Suite, Penthouse Suite and Royal Suite. What is The Retreat Lounge*? The Retreat Lounge is an exclusive lounge for guests of The Retreat. Enjoy complimentary beverages, afternoon tea, evening hors-d’œuvre and desserts. This is a nice place to relax and meet other guests. The lounge is available to you 24/7. You will also have the services of a dedicated concierge who can assist with dinner reservations, spa treatments and more. * Michael’s Club on non-revolutionized ships. Can guests of The Retreat invite friends and/or family members to The Retreat Lounge? Only guests of The Retreat may access The Retreat Lounge, guests are not allowed. The Retreat Sundeck* The Retreat Sundeck is a luxurious outdoor space featuring a spacious lounge area and plush, stylish furniture. This outdoor area rivals any high-end resort. *It is only Available on Edge Series and Revolutionized ships When is The Retreat Sundeck open? The Retreat Sundeck is available 24/7. Service (food and beverage) times vary based on itinerary. The area is open and available to all guests of the Retreat, including children What services are available in The Retreat Sundeck? Retreat Attendants will help with towels, beverages, snacks—whatever you need to completely enjoy your time in the Retreat Sundeck.’ Can guests of The Retreat invite friends to The Retreat Sundeck? Only guests of The Retreat may access The Retreat Sundeck. Passengers staying in an adjoining stateroom are not allowed access. What is The Retreat Concierge? The Retreat experience begins the moment you book your cruise. Simply call 1-877-RETREAT and The Retreat Concierge will assist you with your booking and help plan and arrange every moment of your vacation before you even set sail. Once onboard, The Retreat Concierge will help maximize your time on board with dinner reservations, spa treatments and more. They are happy to assist with anything you need or desire. Is the Retreat Accessible? Accessible suites are available. The Retreat Lounge, Luminae and The Retreat Sundeck*† are accessible on most ships. See below for details. *The Retreat Sundeck is only available on Edge Series and Revolutionized ships. †The Retreat Sundeck on Equinox currently is not Accessible. An alternative accessible space will be provided on the Pool Deck. Is smoking allowed at The Retreat? Smoking is not allowed at The Retreat. There are dedicated smoking areas available onboard. The Retreat Concierge and/or Retreat attendants can assist you once onboard. Guest conduct and smoking policy How many Captain’s Club points will I receive when purchasing a Suite on Celebrity Cruises? Captain’s Club members receive points based on type of Suite and length of stay onboard. For Suites, the points are as follows: Sky Suites, Aqua Sky Suites, Magic Carpet Sky and Sunset Sky 8 points per night. Edge Villas, Horizon, Signature, Royal, Sunset Suites and Celebrity Suites 12 points per night Reflection, Penthouse & Edge Villa 18 points per night Iconic Suite 24 points per night What are the Suite staterooms? Click on each link to learn more about each suite. Not all suites are available on all ships. Sky Suite (includes Magic Carpet Sky Suite and Sunset Sky Suites) Aqua Sky Suite Horizon Suite Celebrity Suite Signature Suite Royal Suite Reflection Suite Penthouse Suite Edge Villa Iconic Suite Whichever suite you choose, you will have an experience above and beyond. Enjoy dining in Luminae, relaxing on the private pool deck and meeting new friends in The Retreat. More information on what is included can be found here: The Suite Life on Celebrity Cruises If you are new to cruising, or even a veteran cruiser, you might find this list helpful. 19+ Useful Items for Your Cruise Cabin Do you have travel insurance for your next cruise? The best day to buy it is the day you book so get it now. Insubuy has policies for all travelers. Have you booked your excursions yet? Check out my recommended provider. Stay up-to-date on all the Cruise News: Join me and other cruisers on Facebook at Zest4Cruising, A Celebrity Cruises Forum, A Celebrity Solstice Cruise Forum, A Celebrity Reflection Cruise Forum, A Celebrity Ascent Cruisers Forum, A Celebrity RETREAT class forum, A Celebrity River Cruises Forum and Alaska Cruise Lover Forum You can also follow me at: YouTube at Travels With Mickey Pinterest at Travels with Mickey Instagram at Travels with Mickey Please visit and follow my Amazon store for more helpful items to make your cruise and travel even moreContinueContinue reading “Celebrity Cruises – The Retreat”
Top Packing and Planning Hacks for Travelers
Seasoned travelers have developed strategies and adopted habits after years of travel to make their journeys easier. This post contains affiliate links which means if you click and buy that I may make a commission, at no cost to you. Please see my disclosure policy for details. Planning & Packing Make a calendar of your travel days. I find this very useful when planning any trip. Make sure to note the dates and times of each reservation. I also include prices and locations of hotels, ports, car rentals and/or train schedules. After the trip is over, I keep this calendar in a file with receipts and tourist information I gathered during our vacation. I can’t tell you how many times I have referred back to my files when planning future trips….or just to remember what we did! Make a checklist. This will make packing soooo much easier. Don’t forget items like sunglasses, passports, sunscreen, any medications you may need, or special items you want to take. Start brain storming as early as possible prior to departing…think about the activities you are planning, possible weather and what types of clothing you will need. Check off the items as you pack them. Nothing is more frustrating than arriving at your destination and realizing you have forgotten something! Tip: A good packing list is essential: Caribbean, Norway, British Isles, Alaska and Cruise Packing 101 Take a photo of your passport and email it to yourself. Even if something happens to your phone, you will be able to access your email on a public computer. Use a travel wallet/passport holder. I have found this to be one of the most useful items in my carryon. I keep boarding passes, passports, money, pen and my credit cards here. Travel wallet Contact your financial institutions and inform them you are traveling. If you are planning to use your ATM and/or credit cards, your bank needs to know you will be making purchases outside your home area. If you don’t, they may put a “hold” on your account and you will not be able to access your funds until you contact them. If you are traveling out of the country, this can be difficult and expensive….not to mention frustrating. Use credit cards for purchases. Many countries are becoming cashless societies since Covid. Even small purchases like an ice cream in the park can only be done with a credit card….we experienced this in London’s Hyde Park. When using a credit card, always let your bank handle the conversion by purchasing in the local currency. If you feel the need for actual cash, use your debit card at a local ATM. You can withdraw smaller amounts and get a better exchange rate. Protect your credit cards and passport from thieves. Simply place your credit/debit cards or any other RFID-enabled contactless Smart Cards near a RFID Blocking Card and you’re safe and ready to go. Use packing cubes. We started using these a few years ago and boy….we are so much more organized. If staying in one place for several days, it is easy to unpack…just place the packing cube in a drawer! Get travel insurance. Travel is expensive. Protect your investment with a good travel plan. Make sure it covers medical, loss of use, hospital stays and travel home if your trip is cut short. Flying Carry on luggage. Having a good carry on bag with plenty of storage is a game changer. I like to use one that fits into the overhead bin and also a tote bag that fits over the handle. That way, I can keep items I want/need during the flight under the seat in front of me. Tag your bags. There are many fun, easily recognizable luggage tags available. When it’s time to purchase new luggage, find suitcases that are not just black or blue….find some that are a little different….maybe a bright color or a fun pattern. Even then….attach something to your luggage that helps you locate them easily. Use Air Tags. We always put an AirTag in our carry on and in our checked bags. If something happens and it gets lost or stolen, you can quickly locate it and retrieve if possible (if stolen, get police assistant to retrieve). Luggage gets delayed or put on the wrong plane all the time. These will assist in tracking your bags. I use a fun, colorful AirTag holder and attach them to the inside of my bags. Bring Air Pods . Air travel is noisy. If you are trying to watch a movie, read or sleep, Air Pods are invaluable. It will also help to discourage a talkative neighbor! Get access to an airport lounge. If you have a long layover, this is a quiet place to wait and they offer complimentary food, beverages, magazines, newspapers and Wi-Fi. Some even have showers or rooms where you can catch a few ZZZs. Check out https://thepointsguy.com for excellent information on credit cards that offer lounge access. And remember, if you are flying first or business class overseas, you automatically get free access! Another option is to join Priority Pass. With over 1,700+ airport lounges and experiences, it will help make your airport time more enjoyable. Use locks for your luggage! We always lock ours when flying or boarding a ship. These luggage locks are designed to keep thieves out but still allow TSA or other airport security to check bags. And because the TSA can’t take their key out without relocking, you can be assured your luggage will stay locked . Weigh your luggage! Overweight luggage can be very expensive. Make sure your bags are under the weight limit of your airline. This luggage scale is easy to use. Just hook your suitcase for instant weight. Cruising Don’t overpack. Make your packing checklist….and then cut it in half! Well….maybe not in half, but don’t take ALL of it. 🙂 I have found that I NEVER wear all the clothes I take. One or two nice dresses, skirts or slacks are fine for evenings. Dress up your outfits with jewelry, shoes or sweaters/wraps for more formal evenings. Same with shoes….a good pair for walking,ContinueContinue reading “Top Packing and Planning Hacks for Travelers”
19+ Essential Cruise Cabin Items
Discover the essential cruise cabin items that help maximise space, improve comfort, and keep your stateroom organised, including packing hacks, storage solutions, and onboard must-haves.
Everything You Need to Know About Back-to-Back Cruises
Back-to-back cruises are a great way to extend your cruise vacation. They can be a cruise traveler’s dream, but many people wonder what to expect. There are many reasons to consider this type of cruise vacation. The most obvious is to prolong your vacation. Back to back cruises allow you to maximize the value of your airfare if flying into the port. Airfare is expensive and doing a back-to-back means you get more time on the ship to justify the flight cost. In addition, doing a back-to-back cruise can expand the ports you visit. It is not uncommon for a ship to sail one itinerary and then follow it up with a different itinerary. This is very common in the Caribbean….many ships often alternate between Western and Eastern Caribbean itineraries. A back-to-back allows you to do both. There are itineraries where cruise lines do a one-way cruise….you board in one city and disembark in another. By doing a back-to-back, you can avoid having to deal with flying to and from different cities….just disembark back in the original port after sailing the return cruise. How does a back-to-back cruise work? The procedure for a back-to-back cruise is pretty much the same for all cruise lines. It’s a good idea to stop by Guest Relations during the first cruise to confirm you on the consecutive cruiser list. If you aren’t, they will expect you to leave at the end of the first cruise. This is not necessary for back-to-back (B2B) cruisers. A few days prior to the end of the first sailing, B2B passengers will receive a letter in their stateroom with details about the process on turnaround day (disembarkation day for the rest of the passengers). This letter will instruct the passengers to report to a venue onboard at a specific time and give details about what to bring. Your passport or identification papers you used when joining the ship will be required. When you arrive, a crew member will take your name and stateroom number and sign you in. This indicates that you are technically “off the ship”, so you must remain in the venue until the ship has reached a zero passenger count. At this time, guests staying onboard will be escorted by a crew member to the gangway. You will scan your old SeaPass card and will then be given a new SeaPass card which you will scan to begin the next sailing. We recently did a B2B in Alaska. We met in the Sky Lounge at 9am where we showed our old sea pass cards and were given new ones. They had us scan them in the venue….we did not have to leave the ship. This is not always the process. Customs and Border Patrol (CBP) of the country you are in dictates the process for consecutive cruisers. It will vary by port. How do you book a back-to-back cruise? If you want to book a B2B cruise, you need to do some leg work….or hire a travel agent to do it for you. You have to book two separate cruises…..one after another. Sometimes you are able to find the same cabin on each cruise, but not always. If not, don’t worry…your cabin steward will help you move your belongings. You do not need to book each cruise at the same time. You can always book another cruise, as long as there is space available. Be sure to ask if there are any discounts available when booking. Cruise lines usually offer a small discount, typically $100-$200/cruise. If changing cabins, what happens to my luggage? If you are staying in the same cabin, you do not need to do anything. If you are changing cabins, you must pack clothing and personal items that were in drawers and the bathroom. Be sure to check the safe for valuables! Hanging garments can remain in the wardrobe and will be moved on a rolling hanger rack by your cabin steward. (There have been reports that some cruise lines are now requiring all items must be packed. Details for your cruise will be in the information letter) Leave your luggage in your cabin. It will be moved to your new cabin for you. DO NOT PLACE THE LUGGAGE TAGS FOR DISEMBARKATION OR PUT THEM OUTSIDE THE CABIN ON THE LAST NIGHT!! If you do, your bags will be removed from the ship and you will need to retrieve them shoreside and go through the normal luggage delivery process. Talk with your cabin steward prior to the last day of the cruise. They will instruct you on the best and easiest way for them to assist in moving your luggage for you. Is muster drill required for the 2nd sailing? YES! Maritime law requires all passengers to conduct the mandatory safety drill on each cruise. It MUST be done prior to the ship sailing for all passengers onboard, including consecutive cruisers. Each cruise is a separate sailing and the Coast Guard makes no distinction between consecutive cruisers and passengers just joining the ship. We like to be among the first to check in as soon as they open, then we are free to enjoy our day. Of course, if you plan to disembark and explore the port, be sure to complete this as soon as you re-board. The ship cannot sail until everyone has completed this task. What can I do on turnaround day? You are welcome to remain onboard and enjoy the quiet of an almost empty ship. The pools will be available but bars and food venues will be closed until embarkation begins. Some cruise lines offer a special lunch for B2B cruisers. Be sure to take advantage of this if offered! You are also free to leave the ship and explore the port until the all aboard time. Be sure to verify this time when leaving the ship. You will not have to go through the embarkation process again at most ports. Ask the port agents where consecutive cruisersContinueContinue reading “Everything You Need to Know About Back-to-Back Cruises”
Evening Chic…..Dress to Impress Your Way
This post may contain affiliate links which means if you click and buy that I may make a commission, at no cost to you. Please see my disclosure policy for details. Say goodbye to formal night and hello to Evening Chic. It’s your time to shine….the way you want to. Be glamorous….Be chic….Be sophisticated. It’s time to dress to impress! My husband wore his kilt on our recent cruise and I wore a blue dress with a sparkly skirt. It was fun to dress up! And the crew really appreciated that we made an effort! What is Evening Chic? Evening Chic is dressier than smart casual but less dressy than formal attire. Each itinerary features one to two Evening Chic nights. Evening Chic means you dress to impress….be glamorous and sophisticated in your own way,. Wear a cocktail dress, skirt, slacks, or designer jeans with an elegant dress top or blazer. I’ve seen many women wear nice slacks and a sparkly top or a nice dress that could be worn to a fancy restaurant or wedding….they looked lovely! Women should feel comfortable wearing:A cocktail dress, nice skirt, dressy pants or designer jeans with an elegant top.Men should feel comfortable wearing:Pants or designer jeans with a dress shirt, button-down shirt or sweaterSport coat/blazer and tie are optional Of course, if you want to go all out and wear a formal dress or tux, that is totally up to you. This is your night to dress up as much as you want to! What are designer jeans? Designer jeans are nicer jeans (in the UK, they’d be referred to as “smart jeans”) with no holes, rips or tears. These are not your “let’s go hiking” jeans. You want to wear jeans that you can dress up a bit…..wear a nice top and shoes/heels for women and a dress shirt, button-down shirt, or sweater for men, with or without a jacket. Yes, there are “designers jeans” that have rips and tears, but these will not be allowed in any dining room. The daily program, which is delivered to your stateroom each evening for the next day and is also available at the Guest Relations Desk, will be your guide to the correct attire each evening. The menu posted outside the main dining room will note what the attire is for the evening. If you do not wish to participate in Evening Chic, Smart Casual attire is acceptable for dining in the buffet and theater. Don’t stress over it too much though. Just make an effort to look nice on those evenings. It is easy to dress up an outfit with a sparkly scarf, dressy top or even a pair of shoes. Happy Cruising! P.S. If you found this helpful, please don’t keep it to yourself ;-). Please share on Facebook or PIN to your favorite Pinterest board. Thanks so much! Do you have travel insurance for your next cruise? The best day to buy it is the day you book so get it now. Insubuy has policies for all travelers. Stay up-to-date on all the Cruise News: Join me and other cruisers on Facebook at Zest4Cruising, A Celebrity Cruises Forum, A Celebrity Solstice Cruise Forum, A Celebrity Reflection Cruise Forum, A Celebrity Ascent Cruisers Forum, A Celebrity RETREAT class forum, A Celebrity River Cruises Forum and Alaska Cruise Lover Forum You can also follow me at: YouTube at Travels With Mickey Pinterest at Travels with Mickey Instagram at Travels with Mickey Please visit and follow my Amazon store for more helpful items to make your cruise and travel even more enjoyable! P.S. If you found this helpful, please don’t keep it to yourself. Share on Facebook or PIN to your favorite Pinterest board (share buttons are below). Thanks so much! Disclaimer: Zest4Travel is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associate Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.
Essential Travel Items for Your Carry-On Bag
Packing for a trip is exciting….but it can also be overwhelming. With a little planning and a good list of what to pack in a carry-on bag, you can maximize space in your bag of choice and still stay within airline requirements when flying. What’s more, you’ll have all your travel essentials close by and accessible, as well as some extras to make the journey more enjoyable. Utilizing your carry-on bag and personal item capacity can even reduce baggage fees and decrease lost baggage incidents, which is a bonus these days! This post contains affiliate links, if you click and buy a product, I may make a commission, at no cost to you. Please see my disclosure policy for details. Travel wallet (with travel documents and credit cards) A good travel wallet is essential. It is a easy way to make sure you have credit cards, identification and any travel documents close to you at all times. If you’re planning to keep your bag under the seat in front of you, a zip closure RFID wallet is keeps cards and documents organized and safe. If you prefer to put your bag in one of the overhead bins, a travel neck wallet is a great way to keep your cards and documents on your body. Whichever option you choose, you want a wallet that is easy to find during check-in, security screenings, boarding and customs, along with RFID security to avoid having your personal information stolen while traveling. Neck Wallet Passport holder If you’re traveling internationally, a passport holder can secure your passport and make it easy to find in your carry-on bag. You’ll need access to your passport when you board your flight and when you’re filling out entry forms, so keep the passport holder and a pen within reach. Many styles include room for credit cards, boarding passes, and customs documents to keep all the necessary items organized for customs and boarding your flight. Once you arrive at your destination, put the passport wallet in your crossbody or travel belt to ensure the essentials are safe while you explore and/or get to your hotel. RFID Blocking Card Thieves are everywhere. Simply place your credit/debit cards or any other RFID-enabled contactless Smart Cards near a RFID Blocking Card and you’re safe and ready to go. Phone Holder 360° Versatility Flexible Viewing: This airplane travel essentials phone holder offers 360° rotation and multi-angle adjustment, perfect for in-flight use. Enhance your in-flight experience by effortlessly tailoring the position for movies, reading, or checking flight information.Experience the freedom of capturing high-quality videos and photos effortlessly, wherever your adventures take you This is another great option for both your phone and a tablet. The FLIGHT FLAP mobile phone holder for desk and travel folds and bends to adjust to your device but retains its shape and secures your device at any angle, anywhere. Jet Lag Remedy Magnesium won’t cure jet lag—but it can help you fall asleep faster and feel more relaxed while your body adjusts, which makes a big difference when traveling. The Boiron Jet Lag Relief Kit is a homeopathic travel remedy designed to ease common symptoms of jet lag Travel size toiletries TSA is a real stickler for this. They will search your bag (delaying you getting to your plane) and remove anything that does not meet the requirements. REMEMBER….no liquid over 3oz! I like to use TSA approved containers. There are many to choose from, I find these useful. Plus….they come in a plastic bag that will protect against any leaks that might happen. (Click on the picture for a direct link to the product.) I have just started using this pocket-sized toothbrush with toothpaste in the bristles. It is specifically designed to provide quick and easy oral care on the go. Each toothbrush is individually wrapped, so no need to worry about it getting dirty. Tech cord organizer Keep your charging cords organized and easy to find. Nothing worse than have your phone or tablet die and not charger! This organizer is two sided and holders a LOT of cords and plugs. Portable Phone Charger Nothing is worse than having your phone die while traveling. I use this portable charger with a build in foldable USB-C connector . Pop Socket Card Wallet This pop socket wallet is a sleek and secure way to carry your credit cards and ID along with your phone. Magnetically attaches to your phone. It has an attached phone grip, so you can avoid phone drops and kickstand your phone. Holds up to 3 cards and is RFID protected. Wireless AirFly Connector Wirelessly transmit audio from in-flight entertainment while traveling. Use your AirPods, earbuds or wireless headphones anywhere with no more cords in the way. AirFly Prescription medications Always keep your prescription medicines with you….do not put in checked luggage. I love to use a pill organizer. Traveling for a longer time and need more storage? These color-coded pouches make it easy to organize medication by day, time, or family member. Travel Jewelry Case Along the same lines, DO NOT PACK YOUR JEWELRY IN CHECKED LUGGAGE! I always keep all my jewelry in my carryon bag, so that I know where it is at all times. I have found this jewelry case works really well. Another great option for jewelry is this grain leather jewelry storage box that includes 12 velvet transparent storage bags. It can be carried separately or placed inside the jewelry box to prevent jewelry oxidation affect the use. Sea Pass Card Holder What do you use to carry your sea pass card? Many people use a lanyard to keep it easily accessible. I like to use a smaller crossbody bag to hold my sea pass, phone, chapstick and hand sanitzer. You will want to have something in your carry on, since you will be receiving your card as soon as you board. Sea Sick Patches Do you suffer from motion sickness? These sea sick patches will make your travel experience more enjoyable. AND….they are Capt Kate and crew member approved! These are the exact sameContinueContinue reading “Essential Travel Items for Your Carry-On Bag”