20 More Tips From Experienced Cruisers

29 Things Experienced Cruisers Think You Should Know Pt. 2

Today we continue our list of 29 things experienced cruisers think you should know. We have sourced our viewers and compiled this expert list of 29 cruise tips to share with you. Download our shore day bag checklist, and more cruise packing and planning checklists & videos by joining the CruiseTipsTV Academy at https://academy.cruisetipstv.com

You can see the complete experienced cruiser list below.

Experienced Cruisers Think You Should Know

1. Complete your cruise check in process properly and thoroughly. Print everything off and keep it in your carry on luggage.
2. Travel with a passport
3. Don’t overpack
4. Invest in cruise insurance – right now, we’re hearing that people are having to cancel and cruise line policies are changing. Without insurance, you can lose a lot. Here’re some places to start: Travel Guard Cruise Insurance & Allianz Travel Cruise Insurance
5. Emily says: Don’t judge cruising based off your first cruise. Every cruise, every cruise line is different.  With that said, other experts said it’s key to take the time to find the right cruise line for you. This is where using a good travel agent comes in. Glutenfree horizons says “there’s a cruise line for everyone. If you found your first one wasn’t for you, there’s a better option out there”. 
6. Artrenity says: If something goes wrong, allow the staff the opportunity to fix it. Like Danielle said “things WILL go wrong, but they will get better”. 
7. Listen to the announcements – this tip is from a cruise director! 
8. Pack the proper toiletries and medications: Shampoo and conditioner are not always provided. Also, sunscreen, medications. Also, prepare for motion sickness, even though you may not need it!! Pain reliever, cold medicine, tummy medications, bandages, allergy meds, neosporin. 
9. Plan & research but don’t over-plan or overbook yourself- often, the best things are the ones you didn’t plan. 
   • Paw Print Cruises says to carve out an ENTIRE day to do nothing. 
   • Brenda shared that her fatal flaw is over planning, then getting upset when things don’t go her way.
   • Patirica said it’s often the unexpected opportunities that make the best memories. Stay positive and enjoy the little things. 
   • Cheryl M says “Don’t overplan and enjoy every moment including those just at sea or with family and friends”. 
10. Try different types of food than you normally would at home: 
11. Unpack the first day/evening (closet hangers, Elizabeth’s tip)
12. Book an early dinner time if you want to enjoy activities, entertainment and shows in the evening.
13. Book specialty dining & shore excursions before you board the ship, if your heart is set on a particular dining time or activity. 
14. Be a flexible traveler. You know the saying “go with the flow”. This is particularly important for cruise passengers, as there can be weather issues, port delays, port changes
15. Take wine & soda onboard- check the policy and make SURE it’s in your carry on luggage. LIke Danesha says “pack patience and WINE!” 
16. Price out the drink package
17. The walls are metal- pack magnets or buy onboard.
18. Kristen says “join in the games but don’t take them too seriously”. 
19. The main dining room isn’t just for dinner
20. Bring cash for tipping porters taxi drivers, bus drivers, extra for the crew, excursion providers. Day 1 tip, keep small bills in your pockets, not your purse or wallet. 
21. Watch vlogs – why? Ship layouts, cabin tours, port activities. 
22. Cheryl says “expect the unexpected”. Hippy dippy says “don’t be rigid with expectations” 
23. Give yourself time to unwind: Liz says: if you have sensory or anxiety issues, it may take a few days to find your peace. 
24. Watch your account balance. it’s very easy to spend, and mistakes DO happen. 
25. Embarkation day can be stressful. Expect it to be, and know that it’s normal. 
26. Use a travel agent! They can help you to re-price your cruise, choose a cruise line and choose the right insurance. Dchenkin says “it costs you nothing and saves you headaches”. 
27. Claudine cautions; The ship is huge! Pack comfortable broken in shoes. Shoes with good tread for pool decks. 
28. Formal night is usually optional. Kandace says “formal night is fun, but if it’s not your thing, that’s okay. Other things to do and eat onboard!”.
29. Traveling tenor says “get to know the staff and crew. Kindness goes a long way”.

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