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”
Category Archives: Packing & Planning
Cruising with Kids: Family-Friendly Activities & Preparations
Cruising with your kids is an easy and fun way to explore the world. Many new ships are like floating resorts with endless options to keep all ages entertained. Your family is transported from port to port and you only have to unpack once! And no dragging suitcases from hotel to hotel! However, without proper planning and preparation, a cruise can go very wrong. Learn how to plan a family cruise and which cruise line is best for your family with these tips for taking a cruise with kids that Research your cruise options thoroughly before booking your vacation. Weigh the pros and cons of each cruise line including childcare options, family activities, meal options, stateroom size and layout, and, of course, price. When choosing an itinerary, consider the number of at-sea days, the ports of call, and shore excursions.will help ensure smooth sailing. RESEARCH, RESEARCH, THEN RESEARCH AGAIN! Read about your cruise options thoroughly before booking your vacation. There are lots of Facebook groups for every cruise line. Cruisers love to help other passengers….ask all your questions! Weigh the pros and cons of each cruise line…childcare options, family activities, meal options, stateroom size and layout and price. When choosing an itinerary, consider the number of sea days, the ports of call and shore excursions. If you are traveling with very young children, some cruise lines limit the number of consecutive sea days you can do. Amenities for children vary among cruise lines. Most kids clubs vary in terms of age requirements and will group the kids into appropriate age groups. Be sure to check if there are restrictions for non-potty trained children. Many do not allow them to be left unattended by parents until fully trained. Also, non-potty trained children may not swim in cruise ship pools but some, such as Disney Cruise Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, Cunard, and Royal Caribbean, offer splash areas on select ships with special filtration for diapered tots. Sail away on a cruise with kids (Photo credit: Matt Stroshane, Disney) Consult a travel agent This is one time a good travel agent is essential. Make sure you use one that specializes in cruises. They can make the entire process seamless and will have a greater knowledge of individual ships and cabins. An agent may also have access to better deals or group rates and may be able to give you onboard credit or other special amenities for your family. Make sure your travel agent is knowledgeable about cruises and books them often! Cruising is different from other vacations. The agent can assist in the online registration and make certain that all of the paperwork is completed and print out your luggage tags. An agent is also there to help you should anything go wrong before, during or after your cruise. There is no additional charge, their commission comes directly from the cruise line! For more information regarding embarkation, be sure to read https://zest4travel.net/2023/04/12/cruise-embarkation-day/ Involve the entire family in planning your cruise. Kids, especially the older ones, want to be part of choosing where your family will cruise, what they want available onboard and which excursions they want to do. Including and considering some of their wishes will make the cruise a better experience for everyone. Get age appropriate books about your destination. Watch movies or youtube videos. Build the excitement! Check cruise message boards or Facebook groups Cruise Critics has been around for a long time and offers roll calls for every sailing. Facebook groups are now becoming even more popular though. Do a search for your sailing to see if one has been started. Also, join the Facebook page for the cruise line and/or ship you are sailing on. Here, you can ask questions and meet other passengers. Many times, group meet ups are already organzied! Arrive at least one day before you set sail If at all possible, don’t fly in the same day as the cruise begins. Flights can be delayed or cancelled, luggage can go missing, etc. There is no need to add extra stress when traveling with kids An extra night or two prior to boarding will help you adjust to a new time zone and allow the kids to destress from long flights and busy travel days. This is especially helpful if traveling overseas. Avoid motion sickness and other illnesses Cabins that are on lower decks and/or mid-ship generally experience less motion and will help reduce the likelihood of developing seasickness. Before leaving home, consider discussing motion sickness prevention options with your doctor. Even if your family is not prone to nausea while traveling, it might be smart to bring along some seasick medicine or other remedy, just in case. Washing your hands often and using antibacterial gel or baby wipes to cleanse hands can help keep your family healthy while cruising. A first aid kit is also an excellent item to pack for your cruise! Discuss expectations before cruising with kids Discuss rules about safety and guidelines regarding onboard behavior with your children prior to sailing. If you are traveling with older kids, set clear rules and boundries regarding the level of freedom they will have during the cruise and family time expectations. For example, if you would like all family members to eat dinner together every evening, make this clear prior to boarding. Now is the time to talk to the kids about the danger of climbing on any railings. People do fall off cruise ships….you don’t want this to happen to your family. Also, remind them that there are other passengers on the ship and they need to respect the rules and others. Things like running and/or yelling in the hallways, loud music in the cabin, blocking stairwells, etc are not acceptable behavior. Pack properly for your family cruise Once you have boarded the ship, it could be several hours before your luggage is delivered to your cabin. Be sure to pack a carry-on bag with anything you might need that first day, such as identification and passports (needed for embarkation), cruise documents, swimsuits, and sunscreen. You don’t need to worry about snacks, as the buffet willContinueContinue reading “Cruising with Kids: Family-Friendly Activities & Preparations”
Norwegian Fjords Cruise Packing Tips
Sailing the fjords of Norway is amazing. The scenery is stunning and there are many excellent excursions. But….“WHAT DO I PACK!”. We have sailed the fjords several times. I use a modified version of my What To Pack For Alaska list. This list also works well for Iceland cruises. First off remember….it’s not the middle of winter! Just because you are heading to the great northern region of Norway, that does not mean it will be snowing and cold. Sure, it could rain and/or be windy (and therefore be a tad chilly) and you may get chilled while sailing into the fjords. BUT….once the ship stops, if the sun is shining, it can be very warm. If you are sailing in May or September, be prepared for cooler temperatures. Later in the summer, it can be warm and humid. The most useful suggestion I have is layers, layers, layers! Bring a lightweight waterproof jacket….heavy down coats are NOT required! Neither are UGGS! Seriously, light weight layers is the answer. The dress code onboard is generally “smart casual” during the day and most evenings, with optional “Evening Chic” nights where guests can dress up a bit more, though formal wear is not required. Ultimate Guide to Celebrity Cruise Dress Code Here are the items that have worked for me. Norway Fjords Packing List: 2 pairs jeans or other long pants (in case one gets wet) Leggings are very popular and are perfect for travel. Fleece lined and water resistant are a great option if you are sailing early in the season or later…or if you easily get cold. I recently sailed Norway in late May and was fine wearing regular leggings. 3-4 shirts to wear with jeans/pants/leggings. one or two pairs casual pants to wear onboard 1 nice outfit for formal/dress up nights 1 or 2 skirts and/or nice pants and shirts/sweaters to wear with them – choose colors that work well together to create more outfits (think capsule wardrobe). 1 or 2 hooded sweatshirts – pullover or zip up 1 waterproof jacket or warm vest… or poncho. This jacket is waterproof, lightweight and good for hiking and travel. It keeps you dry when you need it and packs down small. I have worn a vest under a rain coat for additional warmth. A waterproof poncho would also be very useful. This one folds up into a small packet, is lightweight, has a front zipper and pockets and is available in several colors! A good travel size umbrella can also be very useful. scarf, hat and gloves (for sailing into the fjords) 1 or 2 pair dress shoes/sandals 1 pair sandals for pool deck swimsuit and coverup (Many are probably thinking…seriously? a bathing suit? Yes! The ship’s pools will be open and the hot tubs will be running….enjoy them!) 2 pair good walking shoes I recently purchased these trail inspired slip-ins by Skechers for our active travels. Men and women styles. I use this waterproof spray on my shoes. Hint…wet shoes can be smelly. I use these to remove odors, you get enough for 3 pairs of shoes. They also work really well in your suitcase to remove odors and keep the it smelling fresh. It’s also smart to protect your clothes from dirty shoes with shoe bags. Good sunglasses – the glare off the deck will be very strong. You will definitely want some good binoculars while cruising the fjords. Most ships provide some in your cabin but the quality is usually not very good. We bring a good travel size with us. Just discovered these amazing mosquito/bug repellent patches…so much nicer than using bug spray! Socks and underwear (duh) Workout clothes – if you plan to hit the gym When going ashore, it is nice to have a good bag. I like to use a crossbody bag, Protect your valuables from pickpockets and thieves. This bag is also RFID protected. Sunscreen (glare off boat can be strong) A travel first-aid kit .is a necessity. Pain killers (ibuprofen, aspirin, etc.) and a few bandaids…easier (and cheaper) than going to the ship’s doctor. This is a great first aid kit for traveling. Magnetic chip clips to keep papers organized…cabin walls are metal, so magnets will work. Stonger magnetic hooks are very useful to hang up coats and hats. Keep the cabin organized! After sailing many times and finally having our luggage go missing due to luggage tags being torn off, we now use cruise line luggage tag holders. Highly recommend. Many stores are not providing free bags with purchase in an effort to reduce waste. I take reusable grocery bags. Cabins have blackout curtains but light can still sneak through the bottom or sides. In Norway, the sun sets very late and rises super early. An eye mask is very helpful. Are you prone to motion sickness? These sea sick patches will make your cruise more enjoyable! AND….they are Captain Kate approved! These are the exact same ones she uses onboard, while flying and when in the car. I love these adapters by Hero. They have them for several different countries and are made in the US with a 100% money back guarantee and lifetime warranty. The ship will have US and EU outlets but for any hotel you stay in pre or post cruise, you will need one. Most cruise ship cabins have only a few electric plugs. You’re going to need additional outlets to charge electronic items like phones, computers, tablets, kindles, etc. USB ports are also useful. VERY IMPORTANT – Cruise lines don’t allow a regular surge-protected power bars from home (they will confiscate them). I recommend using one that plugs directly into the outlet without a cord. Many ports are confiscating those with cords, as they consider them extension cords. This is the one we travel with. Be sure to bring printed copies of travel documents – while most cruise guests rely on digital versions, it’s always a good idea to carry a printed copy of your itinerary, travel insurance details, and any booking confirmations as a backup. What cruise documentsContinueContinue reading “Norwegian Fjords Cruise Packing Tips”
Essential Packing Tips for Cruising with Young Children
Taking a cruise with your baby or toddler? Are you wondering what to pack? Packing for a cruise with a baby is a challenge for sure! You will want to pack light, but not too light! If you are lucky enough to get to your cruise ship without flying, you will not have any restrictions on the number of bags you can bring. But do you really want to deal with a lot of extra luggage? Of course, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t bring the items you need! Remember though, cruise cabins are typically smaller than hotel rooms. If you bring too much, your stateroom will feel very cramped and crowded. Be selective and only bring what you will absolutely use. Below are our recommendations for the top essential travel baby supplies for your next family vacation at sea. 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. Protect littles one’s ears while traveling. Some venues onboard can be load. There are sizes for children, babies and toddlers. Heading to a beach destination? A good beach blanket is essential. This one comes with sand anchors and storage pockets too! A good carry on bag is essential. We love to use this one, it has spinner wheels and is easy to maneuver. When boarding the ship, be sure to pack swimsuits, sunscreen, all medicines, valuables and your boarding document including passports in it! If your are flying to the port, it also fits under the seat! Water shoes are an absolute must have item for the entire! Protect everyones feet from rocks, shells, coral, hot sand, etc. Many cruise lines do not have self-service laundry. Kids are messy! Be prepared to do some laundry in your cabin. You can hang a shower curtain from the ceiling using these hooks to create a privacy curtain or use them to hang hats, jackets, blankets extra. Walls and ceilings in ship cabins are magnetic! They are available in lots of fun colors too. This is genius! A refillable roll-on container for sun screen…..why didn’t I think of that? When it comes to strollers, the smaller and lighter the better. If your usual stroller is bulky, you might want to invest in a smaller, more maneuverable umbrella stroller. These take up much less room in your cabin and can also fit under the bed when not in use. Cabin corridors are also narrow and some areas can be crowded. This lightweight stroller weighs just 13 pounds, has four reclining positions, a large seat area and a large storage basket plus anti-shock front wheels and lockable rear wheels Air tags are a must these days. Luggage gets delayed or lost…know where your belongs are! They are also a very good way to find your stroller if it gets moved while traveling….very useful in places like Disney, other amusement parks, malls, etc.! We use a detachable air tag case on the inside of all our luggage. That way we know it won’t get removed or lost. Set your kids up for success on your travel to the ship with this awesome travel tray. It pops up and sits right across their lap, giving them plenty of storage space, a place to draw that won’t damage anything and a handy place to store their tablet for easy viewing. Believe me…you want to use a luggage tag holder on your luggage. After many sailings with torn off or destroyed tags and bags going missing, we finally invested on these and use them every cruise. These are for Celebrity and Royal Caribbean: These are for Carnival: And these work with Princess luggage tags: Excursions are easier when you don’t have to worry about a stroller. This wrap keeps baby close and comfy. Cruise lines have a limited number of pack & plays onboard for passenger use. Ships do not provide padding or sheets. We recommend adding a travel one to your packing list. This way, you know your child has a safe and comfortable place to sleep. A portable white noise sound machine creates a soothing environment for your little one. Your little one is going to need changing at some point! Be prepared with this portable changing pad. It comes with handy storage pockets and is waterproof. Diaper bags have come a long way! Dad won’t mind carrying this leather baby diaper bag backpack and it comes with stroller straps too! Diaper bags can be smelly. These odor eliminators work great….smell really good too. There are several different scents to choose from. Most cruise cabins do not have a bath tub and the sinks are very small. An inflatable tub can be very useful! Can be used pool side for some splash time too! A first aid kit is a 100% necessity! Visits to the ships doctor can be expensive and time consuming. Best to be prepared for the bumps and scrapes that are bound to happen. Of course you will want to buy things in port for your friends, family, little one. Many stores are not providing free bags with purchase in an effort to reduce waste. We take reusable grocery bags. Feeding time can be an adventure. Sippy cups, travel bottles, snack cups and baby spoons are very helpful! Lightweight bottles Portable bottle warmer Insulated water bottles for babies and toddlers. Baby spoons Of course, you will need diapers and clothes! Bring at least two clothing changes per day plus sleeping wear. Baby swimsuits and hats to protect those eyes are also important! For the dress up nights onboard, bring something fun for your little one to wear! Diapers onboard are expensive. If not driving to the port, stop at a store and stock up prior to boarding! Get some swim diapers too but be sure to check with your cruise line to see if they are allowed in the pool. If not, ask if they haveContinueContinue reading “Essential Packing Tips for Cruising with Young Children”
What to Know Before Your Cruise Embarkation
It has finally arrived….Embarkation Day! All the waiting, planning and anticipation is almost over! Before you know it, you will be on board, sipping a tropical drink and waiting for sail away. Woohoo….vacation has begun!! Hold on though…you may be ready to get onboard, but the crew is busy preparing the ship and disembarking the prior passengers. If this is your first cruise, some things may surprise you. Cruises are different from land vacations and hotel stays. You have to go through the a pier-side check-in process, with special requirements. Check out What Cruise Documents Do You Need for the documents you need to board a ship. And remember, there are many passengers waiting to board a floating city at basically the same time. As with any other secured structure, you can’t walk right onto a ship. The best way to start your cruise is to arrive at the pier at your assigned check in time. Keep a level head and look forward to good times once your sailing gets underway. There are a few things you can do to help make embarkation day as easy as possible. Check that you have the necessary paperwork and documentation The cruise line will send reminders about what to expect at check-in, including health and safety procedures. It will outline which documents, IDs, QR codes or other electronic receipts you must have ready. Be sure to do as much as you can online prior to arriving at the pier. It is your responsibility to arrive with the proper documentation. Even though most cruise lines are providing online boarding passes, it might be a good idea to print and bring paper copies of documents as a backup to electronic documents. Or…take a screen shot of them on your phone. Again, visit the link in the section above for what the proper documents are that you need to board, such as passport, birth certificate etc. Arrive at the pier at your scheduled time. Since the restart of cruising post Covid, in an attempt to decrease crowding at the port, most cruise lines are assigning staggered times to arrive at the pier. If you arrive early, you may have to wait to enter the terminal. This may be outside in the hot sun, without access to water, seating or restrooms. It is best to arrive at the pier as close as possible to your scheduled time. No need to worry if you arrive after your scheduled time….you will be welcomed tin o start the check-in process. You will not be turned away. Word of warning though….everyone MUST be onboard 90 minutes prior to sail away. This is a maritime/port requirement, not the cruise line. Give your large luggage to the porters to be loaded onto the ship. When you arrive at the pier, porters will be waiting to take your large suitcases and load them onto the ship. Once they are on the ship, crew members will deliver them to your cabin. Be sure to attach your cruise line proved luggage tags. Don’t worry if you forget to print them or are not able to. The porters have some on hand. These tags inform the crew which cabin to deliver them to. I highly recommend using luggage tag holders like this to attach them to your bag. There are different sizes for each cruise line. Be sure to purchase the correct ones…these are for Celebrity/Royal Caribbean Keep your carry-on bag with you! Pack your medications, valuables, documents, passport and anything else you will need until your luggage arrives in your cabin. You may want to pack your bathing suit so that you don’t have to wait for your suitcases to arrive before you hit the pool! MAKE SURE YOUR PASSPORT/ID IS WITH YOU!!! Be prepared to go through security You will go through security after entering the cruise terminal. The process is similar to an airport. Your carry-on luggage will be screened and you will walk through a metal detector. You won’t have to take off your shoes but you do have to remove belts, bulky jewelry and clear your pockets. You don’t need to worry about liquid, as there is no size limitation. Keep your boarding pass available. You will need this to board the ship. Since many ships are now leaving your sea pass card at your cabin, you will need to scan the boarding pass document when first entering the ship. Do not try to sneak any banned items onto the ship All of your luggage will be scanned electronically. Many cruise lines allow passengers to bring a pre-determined amount of wine, soda and/or bottled water onboard at embarkation. Check your cruise lines FAQ for the amount allowed for your cruise. It is very rare that hard spirits or beer is allowed to be brought onboard. If found, it will either be removed from your luggage and held until disembarkation or destroyed. They know to look in hiding places, such as solid water bottles, mouthwash containers, etc. Be sure to carry allowed beverages onboard with you, not as checked luggage. Check with your cruise line for any corkage fee if opened in a bar, lounge or restaurant. Cruise lines have very specific rules for other banned items. These items include weapons, fireworks, flammable liquids, candles, clothing irons, steamers, kettles, incense and anything that produces a flame. This includes outlet extenders that have a cord. We use the one below to provide more outlets in the cabin. Royal Caribbean also bans martial arts gear, baby monitors and extension cords. Carnival bans handcuffs. You can read more about banned items here: What NOT to Bring Watch the safety video and check in to your muster station. In the past, everyone on a cruise ship was required to gather on embarkation day at their assigned muster station, listen to a safety briefing and be checked off a list. As a result of COVID-19, most cruise lines have moved to e-muster drills. You are required to watchContinueContinue reading “What to Know Before Your Cruise Embarkation”
Cruise Disembarkation Tips: Smooth Sailings for Your Farewell
No one likes to think about it, but it’s going to happen….you have to leave the ship. Disembarkation (or debark) is something cruisers don’t want to think about. It’s a lot more fun to think about things like planning excursions and booking future cruises and NOT think about getting off the ship. But all good things must come to an end and it’s best to be prepared! What to expect Cruise lines are fairly similar in their disembarkation procedures. The last morning of your cruise, you will have to disembark and leave what has become your very comfortable home away from home and all your new friends, passengers and crew alike. Traditional Disembarkation vs Self-Disembarkation There are two types of disembarkation….regular and self, commonly called self-assist or walk-off. The process is basically the same, with the main difference being that with self-disembarkation, you are responsible for taking your luggage off the ship. You must be able to walk your own bags off the ship and through the terminal. If you choose to walk off your bags, make sure they are easy to maneuver and don’t over pack. It’s best to not have a lot of luggage to carry off. What are the Benefits of Self-Disembarkation You can be in the first group to get off the ship. If you need to leave the cruise port to catch an early flight, or have a long drive ahead, this can be a great option. You do not need to put luggage out on the last night of your cruise. The only wait will be for the ship to be cleared by port authorities. What are the Disadvantages of Self-Disembarkation You will not receive any help with your luggage. You may need to carry it down several flights of stairs as elevators may be full. You need to be up very early. Debark will begin as soon as the ship is cleared. This could be as early as 7am. This is only a good option if everyone is able to handle their own luggage. If you need help or have a lot of luggage, this isn’t the best option. Remember, it’s called self-assist for a reason. We have done both and there is no right or wrong way. The choice is yours and you can decide what works best for you once onboard. When time can you expect to leave the ship? There’s no set time when debark will begin and this will vary by cruise port and by things that are beyond the control of the ship and crew. The scheduled docking time listed on your cruise itinerary will NOT be the time that you can leave the ship. This is the time the ship is expected to arrive in port. The ship will still need to be cleared by customs of the country you have arrived in and given permission for passengers to debark. Usually this is a fairly quick process, but sometimes it can take longer…maybe several hours. As a general rule, most cruise ships will start the disembarkation process around 7:30-8 am. An announcement will be made once the ship is cleared and passengers can disembark. Wait for your luggage tag number to be called though. Otherwise, you will be waiting in the terminal for your luggage to arrive. Avoid booking an early flight home You will need time to leave the ship, get your luggage, clear customs and then time to reach the airport. Some ports, like Fort Lauderdale, as close. …a quick 15 taxi ride. Most are not! There will be taxis waiting outside the terminal but there may be a line for them. Most cruise lines recommend not booking flights before noon. And if you are taking an International flight, you may need more time at the airport. Be sure to factor in wait times at the airport to drop off luggage and clear security. TSA pre-check can be very helpful! Remember, even if you CAN make it, it’s possible for your ship to arrive late in port due to weather or other reasons. I was on a ship that was late into port due to mechanical issues and many people missed their flights. Ships have also been late arriving due to weather, such as storms or fog. Galveston and Tampa are well known for fog problems. If a morning flight is best for you, consider spending the night at a hotel and fly out the following morning. Why add stress to the end of your wonderful vacation? Disembarkation instructions Your cabin steward will leave printed instructions, along with luggage tags. This will include instructions on what to do with your luggage, as well as some basic customs information. Also included will be a timetable for when luggage numbers will be called the following morning. Luggage tags and debarkation times You will receive luggage tags that are numbered according to when you wish to disembark. If this time does not work for you, you can ask your steward for new luggage tags or go to guest relations. They will be happy to change them and is probably faster and easier than asking your cabin steward. Debarking thousands of passengers within a few hours is quite a process. Cruise lines keep things organized by assigning color coded luggage tags which correspond to certain disembarkation times. As noted above, this timetable will be left in your cabin along with your luggage tags. What do I do with my luggage? (Of course, this only applies to regular disembarkation. If you are doing self-assist/walk off, keep you luggage in your cabin.) On the last night of your cruise, place your luggage outside your cabin door. Generally, bags must be outside by 10pm. The actual time for your sailing will be noted on the instructions. The ship’s crew will be working hard that night placing the luggage in a holding area, so that it can be moved off the ship quickly the next morning. DO NOT miss the deadline! RememberContinueContinue reading “Cruise Disembarkation Tips: Smooth Sailings for Your Farewell”
Sail Smoothly: Must-Have Cruise Documents and Boarding Advice
Cruise documents…what are they and which ones you need? To help you avoid any major mishaps, let’s walk through the basics and touch on some additional items you might want to bring along just in case. Boarding a cruise ship is different from boarding a domestic plane flight. Because cruises involve international travel, you won’t be allowed to sail if you don’t have the proper documents and identification. Therefore, you will want to know EXACTLY what to take with you. And then double and triple check your list to ensure you haven’t forgotten anything. The check-in process can be intimidating if you have never done it before. To make it easier, let’s explore exactly what cruise documents are, which ones you need and how you obtain them. With this information in hand, you will be all set for a successful and stress-free embarkation day. 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. What are cruise documents? Necessary cruise documents include acceptable official forms of identification and your boarding pass. If you are visiting countries that require visas, you must also have those with you. These items must be presented upon arrival at the port. After port officials check and verify each these documents at the terminal, will you be permitted to board your ship. Many cruise lines are now providing online boarding passes. Take a screen shot or add it to your wallet on your phone for easy access. At a time when eco-friendliness is top of mind and nearly every traveler has a mobile phone, it’s easy to rely on apps to keep everything in one spot and avoid wasting paper. But…what would happen if your phone was lost, stolen or broken during your travels? For this reason, I always advise printing hard copies of anything you might need in a pinch. Try to use as little paper as possible. It’s better to be safe than sorry. ALWAYS…..pack all necessary travel documents in your carry-on luggage in an easy to access place. Also, be sure to carry on any medications and valuables, such as jewelry, car keys, glasses, etc. Documents needed for cruisers to board a ship Identification For most cruises, you’ll need a passport book that’s valid for at least six months from the day your sailing ends. In some cases, you can use a passport card instead of a passport book. This will only work if you are re-entering the United States via your ship from Mexico, Canada, Bermuda or the Caribbean. If your cruise is a closed-loop voyage, according to U.S. Customs & Border Protection, you can embark with an Enhanced Driver’s License, which is a state-issued driver’s license that provides proof of identity and U.S. citizenship; a government-issued birth certificate (issued by the Vital Records Department in the state where the person was born) or passport; and if 16 or older, a government-issued driver’s license or picture ID denoting photo, name, and date of birth. To qualify as a closed-loop cruise, the places these itineraries can include must be contiguous territories of the United States. That includes Mexico and Canada, because both share land borders with the U.S., and several of the islands of the Caribbean. The Enhanced Driver’s License allows you to re-enter the U.S. from Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean and is valid at land and sea border crossing but not airports. So, if you are boarding in Alaska and flying home from Vancouver, an Enhanced Driver’s License will not work. NEXUS card. If you are a U.S. or Canadian citizen, you may use a NEXUS or FAST Trusted Traveler Card for closed loop cruises to Alaska, the Caribbean and Bahamas, Pacific Coast, Canada, and the Panama Canal. For cruises to Europe and Transatlantic sailings, a passport is still required for travel. Different documentation is acceptable for minors under 16, including an original, notarized, or certified copy of their birth certificate, a Consular Report of Birth Abroad, or a Certificate of Naturalization. Voter registration cards and Social Security cards are not considered proof of citizenship, nor are school ID’s. If you do choose to take advantage of this opportunity to travel without a passport, there are a couple of warnings to keep in mind. If something goes wrong and you have to return to the U.S. by air, you will need a passport to board a flight. Also, if you miss the ship in one of the ports, you will have to make your own way home or to catch up with the cruise, which would be difficult without a passport. Additionally, if you are a U.S. permanent resident, you must carry your green card. You can use it instead of a passport on closed-loop sailings, but carrying a passport from your country of citizenship is highly recommended. Also note that if your green card is expired, you likely will not be allowed back into the U.S. You are responsible for contacting the embassies in the places you’ll be visiting to make sure there is no additional paperwork required. If you are a US citizen and want to apply for a passport, this is the link. Be sure to apply at least 6 months prior to departure from the USA. https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports/how-apply.html Boarding passes Just like a flight, a cruise boarding pass is the document that shows you’ve checked in for your sailing, set up an onboard account for purchases and chosen a boarding time. It will also includes important information like your name, booking number, cabin number and any packages you may have booked with or purchased, such as a beverage package. Most cruise lines are now using mobile apps that allow you to check in prior to arriving at the terminal. If you don’t plan on using the app, be sure to arrive with a printed copy of your boarding pass….having one will speed up the check-in process on boarding day. If , for some reason you arrive without aContinueContinue reading “Sail Smoothly: Must-Have Cruise Documents and Boarding Advice”
Exploring Nassau: Walking Tours, Landmarks, and Distillery Visits
Nassau, Bahamas is a beautiful destination for anyone looking for a tropical paradise and is a popular port for cruise ships. It is known for its dazzling turquoise waters, white sand beaches and year-round sunshine. But what is there to do? Many people are intimidated when they first arrive and depart the ship. The current gateway is under construction and is rather crowded and confusing. There are also tour vendors actively pushing their tours, along with taxi drivers asking if you want a private tour or transfer to one of the many beaches. Don’t let them scare you off….walk past them and into the town. Just be careful of the busy road. And be mindful of your belongings….as is common in many tourist locations, there are pickpockets around. Downtown Nassau has the usual shopping opportunities….beach wear, local souvenirs and the typical jewelry stores. It is only a few blocks long, so it doesn’t take much time to explore it. Have you ever gone swimming with pigs? You can in Nassau! There are many excursions available, either through the ship or on the pier. Want to do a walking tour? You have many options to choose from. There are culinary tours, rum tasting, bike tours or self-guided walking tours. Be sure to visit the Queen’s Staircase, commonly referred to as the 66 steps. This is a major landmark that is located in the Fort Fincastle Historic Complex in Nassau. It was hewn out of solid limestone rock by slaves between 1793 and 1794 and is said to have provided a direct route from Fort Fincastle to Nassau City. These steps were later named in honour of Queen Victoria, who reigned in Britain for 64 years from 1837 to 1901. Visit John Watling’s distillery if you like rum! John Watling’s Distillery, home to JOHN WATLING’S rum, offers complimentary tours at its home, the Buena Vista Estate, in Downtown Nassau. The historic Estate was founded in 1789 and overlooks the harbour. At the Estate, John Watling’s features a free production and museum-like tour, shopping and signature Bahamian cocktails at its tavern. It is within walking distance from the cruise ship port in Downtown Nassau. John Watling’s Distillery is located on Delancy Street and is open from 10am-6pm, seven days a week (except for National Holidays). Do you enjoy visiting breweries? Be sure to check out Rip Ty’d Bahamian Craft Beer, located an easy 20 minutes walk from the pier. They are a small batch brewery which allows them to be creative, especially with local produce. All beer styles start with the local Bahamian water. One of the most popular destinations for tourists is Atlantis Paradise Island, an ocean-themed resort on Paradise Island in the Bahamas. It is built around Aquaventure, a 62-hectare waterscape. You can purchase the excursion through the cruise ship or at the port. You can also just go and walk around the resort, visit the casino, shops and dining options. How do you get to Atlantis? You can either take a taxi or the ferry. Taxis are available at the cruise port – $4 per person. You can also take a ferry from Prince George Wharf to Paradise Island – $4 per person and run every half hour. Be sure to keep your eye on the time, as you don’t want to miss the ship! Beginning December 2025, the all new Royal Caribbean’s Beach Club opens. The Royal Beach Club Paradise Island will offer cruisers an all-inclusive venue to soak up sweeping Caribbean views and powdery white sands. Pricing and details can be found here: Royal Beach Club Paradise Island Enjoy your time in Nassau. Remember to take sunscreen, water and a hat with you! And wear comfortable walking shoes. For more, check out the YouTube of our son and daughter-in-law. Follow Maddie and Ryan for more adventures at sea and on land. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u3zFjOr971s 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 more enjoyable! 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 (share buttons are below). Thanks so much! Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. 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Ultimate Guide: What to Bring on Your Caribbean Cruise
You’ve booked your dream cruise to the Caribbean. Now the big question…what to pack! While you might think all you need to throw into your suitcase is a couple of swimsuits and a pair of sandals, there are many other things to consider. A Caribbean cruise vacation offers so much more than just pristine beaches…though there are plenty of those too! Different islands offer different types of excursions…. relaxing beach days to zip-lining over treetops, hikes up mountains, diving/snorkeling and catamarans. Important Note: 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. This chart provides a general idea of what temperatures to expect each month. Don’t forget to factor in humidity also. Of course, things can change but this will give you a starting point. If you’re planning on participating in any of these activities during your cruise, you’ll want to make sure to bring along the appropriate activewear and shoes. Good walking shoes are a must. Also, beach footwear is essential. Water shoes are highly recommended….many beaches are rocky or have coral. I’ve been using these and find them very comfortable and easy to wear. Comfortable sandals are a must have item. I have found a pair by Dreampairs that are made for women. The fit is perfect and they have great support. They can also stand up to the occasional rain showers that are so common in the Caribbean. No matter how long your vacation, there are many accessories and items you might not consider important, but that actually go a long way in making your cruise as comfortable as possible. See my curated list in Cruise Packing 101 Here is a quick list of things to not forget: Swim suit! Nothing worse than arriving onboard and realizing you forgot to pack one! Beach cover up….sometimes it’s nice to have something more than your bathing suit if you want to get food or sit at the bar. This one comes in several colors too! Shorts and t-shirts are great for daytime. I wear skorts, as I don’t like shorts. Capris or leggings are also a good choice. Most important, be comfortable! For evenings onboard, dresses or skirts are a great option or nicer slacks. On formal nights, I love wearing something sparkly….it’s the only chance I get to really dress up! A light weight sweater or wrap is a good idea to pack. The ship can be cool at night. This evening wrap is well priced and comes in lots of colors. Don’t forget to add a good hat to your packing. This will protect your face from the sun. These are the ones I use: A cooling towel. The Caribbean can be HOT! A cooling towel will help you stay more comfortable. We live in Florida and visit DisneyWorld often….this is a MUST for us! Sunscreen. Please choose one that is Reef Safe. A waterproof case is useful if you are uncomfortable leaving your valuables on the beach while you are in the water. There is also a waterproof case if you want to snorkel with your phone. Want to snorkel? We always bring our own gear…that way we know it is well taken care of and clean. These are the snorkel masks and fins we use. Got a sunburn anyway? This sunburn relief spray will help calm and soothe your skin. If you like going to the pool or the beach, keeping your towel on the chair can be challenging. I found towel band or clips to be really useful and always have them packed and ready to add to the suitcase! We use this lock box at the beach or pool. It easily attaches to any beach chair and provides a secure place for your phone, id and money. Of course, a good beach bag to carry everything is super helpful. I like this one…lots of pockets to keep items organized and it is waterproof too! A good beach blanket is a necessity. We love this one…it comes with stakes to keep it in the sand, four attached zippered pockets and the carry pouch is attached, so it won’t fly away. Removing sand from your legs after being at the beach all day is always challenging. I love this sand removal tool. Just wipe it on and the sand disappears, leaving you skin feeling fresh and clean. Protect sensitive areas from the humidity. No one wants to talk about it, but chub rub happens and is very uncomfortable. This Chafing Relief Powder Gel is safe to use under arms, on inner thighs and other sensitive areas. Another good option is Gold Bond Stick Defense. . Cruise Approved Power Bar Ships have limited places to plug in your phone, computer, tablet etc Most cruise ship cabins have only a few electric plugs. You’re going to need additional outlets to charge electronic items like phones, computers, tablets, kindles, etc. USB ports are also useful. VERY IMPORTANT – Cruise lines don’t allow a regular surge-protected power bars from home (they will confiscate them). I recommend using one that plugs directly into the outlet without a cord. Many ports are confiscating those with cords, as they consider them extension cords. This is the one we travel with. If you need plugs, this is a good option too. Many cruise lines are really cracking down on any outlet extender that provides multiple plugs. This is a great option for charging multiple devices at once. Available in others colors. There is no need to pack beach towels, shampoo/conditioner, soap etc. Those will all be provided by the ship in your cabin. DO NOT pack irons or steamers…those are not allowed onboard. To learn what is not allowed to be brought onboard, read What NOT to bring onboard! Downey wrinkle release has worked very well for us in the past. Mosquitos can be a problem in the tropics. Use these patches to keep them away….just place on your clothing! The tropics are known for afternoonContinueContinue reading “Ultimate Guide: What to Bring on Your Caribbean Cruise”
Top Travel and Cruise Products Personally Recommended | Amazon Store
I have a passion for travel and cruising. As such, I have tried MANY products and have chosen my favorites to share with you. I only share items I have personally used and recommend. Let me know if you have any suggestions or comments. Please visit my Amazon travel store You will find all the things I love to use for traveling and cruising. Please check it out! Happy shopping! Let’s connect: 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 RETREAT class 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 even more enjoyable! *As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. 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 (share buttons are below). Thanks so much!