15 Essential Cruise Tips and Pre-Cruise Checklist

Hey there, got your cruise booked and you think you're done? Think again. You've got some things to do before you set sail, and believe me, I know how stressful cruise planning can be.

I have spent more time on a cruise ship than I have in my Florida backyard.

15 Things You Should do Before Cruising.

Think of this as your pre-cruise checklist with some essential cruise tips so you can sail with ease.

If you need more help planning and packing for your cruise, be sure to download my free cruise packing checklist as well.

I put this together to help me plan my cruises stress-free. You will find a lot of helpful tips including a pre-cruise checklist and information here in this 30-page Ultimate Cruise Packing Checklist.

Plus, when you click the link and sign up to receive your free downloads, you will be sent to another page with more helpful tips and information for planning your cruise. Now, let's dive into what you should do before you cruise!

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Hey, y'all, I'm Tiffany!

I am a travel enthusiast and have been helping others for over 15 years, cruise and travel affordably!

I'd love to connect with you. Come join me on my journeys in exploring new places!

Before You Cruise

1. Double-Check Your Passport

Nothing kills cruise vibes faster than a passport that’s expired—or realizing it will be by the time you dock. Check it now. Most cruise lines want your passport valid for six months past your return date. Don’t be that person begging at the port!

2. Download the Cruise Line App

Every major line’s got one, and it’s your lifeline. From daily schedules to dinner reservations, it’s a game-changer. I forgot to download mine once and spent Day 1 wandering like a lost penguin. Learn from me—get it before you board. Also, most cruise lines will let you check in on your app making it so much easier and faster when boarding the ship. Look to check in online around 30-45 days before your cruise.

3. Pre-Cruise Shopping

Plan a list of essentials you will need for your cruise. Check out my cruise checklist for suggestions on what to pack for Alaska and the Caribbean. You should always ensure that you are including vacation clothes and accessories needed for your cruise as part of your overall cruise budget.

4. Pack Smart, Not Heavy

Now that you have purchased what you need for your cruise, it's time to pack. Always check the weather of your cruise destinations. For instance, Alaska you will want to pack in layers and you don't want to forget your swimsuit in the Caribbean. My free 30-page cruise checklist has packing lists for both destinations to help you plan. Don't forget to check your cruise line's prohibited items, such as an iron or steamer among others. You can find this on your cruise line's website.

5. Plan Your Shore Excursions

If you want to do a shore excursion, it is highly suggested to book them in advance, so they don't sell out. You can book your excursions through your cruise line or a third party, such as Viator. A third-party vendor can save you money but always make sure you are going through a reputable third-party vendor.

6. Buy Travel Insurance

I used to skip this—until a storm canceled my flight to the port. Now? Non-negotiable. It covers cancellations, medical emergencies, and lost bags. Trust me, peace of mind is worth it.

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Check out some popular Nassau excursions I recommend when booking through Viator

15 Essential Cruise Tips

Pre-Cruise Checklist

7. Set a Budget (and Stick to It)

Cruising can nickel-and-dime you—drinks, Wi-Fi, spa days. My budget planner (yep, in that checklist!) helps me decide what’s worth it. Prepay gratuities and set a daily spending limit. Future you will thank you.

8. Check Your Pre-Cruise Health Stuff

Vaccinations, meds, seasickness bands—handle it now. I always bring seasick patches - You just never know, better safe than sorry. Call your doctor if you're unsure which meds are right for you.

9. Print Your Documents

Boarding pass, (or be sure to have it on your phone) luggage tags, excursion tickets—print them if you don't have digital copies. Wi-Fi’s spotty at the port, and you don’t want to be the one holding up the line. I keep a folder just for this.

10. Plan Your Port Arrival

Aim to get to the port city a day early. Flight delays and traffic can happen—give yourself a buffer. I once cut it close in California flying in the day of my cruise and nearly missed the ship. Never again! Your cruise line will give you a boarding time to arrive. Be sure to arrive a little early just in case.

11. Charge Your Devices (and Pack a Charger Bank)

Phones, cameras, e-readers—charge ‘em up. I always bring a couple of charger banks with me to not only have as extra outlets in the room but to carry around the cruise port as well. Older cruise ships are limited on outlets in the cabin. You may even find on newer ships, sharing with other people, you still need more outlets. You can bring a charger block, but check with your cruise line to make sure it is not on the prohibited list of items.

Check out more Cruising Tips to help you plan your cruise!

12. Notify Your Bank

Nothing’s worse than your card getting flagged mid-cruise. Tell your bank your travel dates and ports. I learned this after my card got declined buying a souvenir in Nassau—awkward!

13. Make Dining Reservations

Want a steakhouse night? Book it pre-cruise. Popular spots fill up fast, and I’m not missing my lobster tail because I forgot to reserve. Check the app or cruise line website. Also, be sure to factor in specialty dining as part of your overall cruise budget. I usually allot for one nice dinner on a 7-day cruise.

14. Join a Cruise Facebook Group

Join a Facebook group with your exact cruise sailing. These groups are goldmines for insider tips—best deck spots, hidden bars, you name it. I found a great restaurant in Cozumel by scrolling through the chats. You can even check out previous sailings to see what the cruise was like and learn what theme nights the cruise ship has as well. Just search for your ship and sail date on Facebook!

15. Pack an Embarkation Day Bag

Last but not least, you will want to make sure you have an embarkation day bag ready to go for boarding day. In your embarkation day bag, you should have all of your important documents, essentials, meds, change of clothes, and even a swimsuit so you can get started with the fun right away!

Cruising is magic— get ready for new views, new friends, and new stories. Pop over to my YouTube channel for my latest tips.

There you have it—15 things to do before you cruise! Want my full pre-cruise checklist to make it even easier? It’s part of my free 30-page planner—packing lists, itinerary ideas, budget tools, and more.