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• Try to book early for the best location on the ship. Don't worry about price drops. A good cruise agent (like Jo-Ann) will stay on top of price drops and will definitely pass them along. Plus -- a few of the cruise lines are beginning to do away with very last-minute sales.

 

 • Don't book your air too early. It could cost you more. Purchase five months in advance of  European trips, three and a half months in advance of Caribbean trips, and just a few months prior to a domestic vacation. These suggestions go out the window during peak vacation periods, such as spring break, Thanksgiving and Christmas, and for prime vacation destinations such as Las Vegas and Florida. All guidelines are subject to change. 

 

 • Consider Global Entry or TSA Pre for an easier time at the airport. With Global Entry you'll clear immigration must faster on your way back to the U.S. from any foreign country. With TSA Pre you can zip right through security without having to remove shoes, computers, or that quart-sized bag of liquids. Global Entry includes TSA Pre in most cases. TSA Pre will check criminal records for the past seven years. Global Entry will check criminal records for your entire lifetime. Decisions can be appealed.

 

• Make sure to let your banks and credit card companies know you'll be traveling. Otherwise they might freeze your accounts for suspected fraudulent activity. Bring several credit cards as a safety measure. 

 

• Bring a passport, regardless of your cruise itinerary. For more information about the importance of passports, go to this page. Make a copy of your passport and place it apart from the real thing. Consider uploading a copy to your MyTrips vault right here on this website. 

 

• Roll your clothes. You'll be able to fit more clothes in your suitcase.

 

• Consider bringing a few slimline hangers, if you have space in your luggage. Closet space is usually ample, but sometimes the number of hangers errs on the lean side.

 

• Bring lots of dollar bills. They'll come in handy for tips and small purchases, and you'll be surprised by how many smaller merchants outside of the U.S. accept them.

 

• The best foreign currency exchange rate is through an ATM in the country you're visiting. Ask your bank which banking system (e.g. Cirrus) to look for while abroad. 

 

• If you're traveling with friends or family, consider bringing post-its to place on mirrors and doors to let them know where you're going. Some of the ships are now offering free apps to connect with friends and family onboard, make dinner reservations, or learn about ship activities.

 

• Bring a highlighter for your daily cruise program, which is dense with information. They're delivered every night to your rooms right around dinnertime.

 

• Unless you have an international plan, keep the cellular on your cell phones shut off to avoid expensive roaming charges. Check with your carrier before your trip to see what can be arranged.

 

• Bring an empty water bottle and fill it at the buffet restaurant to avoid paying extra for bottled water.

 

• Bring an extension cord for CPAP machines, etc.

 

• Seasick? Ginger, ginger, ginger. Head to the bar and get some gingerale. Or ask your doctor for a patch. Or bring Bonine or Dramamine. Keep in mind, however, that ships use stabilizers to lessen the effect of motion.

 

• Many premium ships loan binoculars. Many mainstream lines do not. Bring a pair because it's likely you'll be viewing some very special scenery.

 

• Bring a small alarm clock for your stateroom. Most ships won't have one.

 

• Bring something for your sea pass -- either a lanyard or a small bag. You'll use this credit card-size pass for everything, including purchases on the ship and entry into your room. Some cruise lines are happy to punch a hole in your sea pass, to affix to your lanyard.

 

• Water shoes are invaluable during many water-focused excursions. Don't forget to pack a pair!

 

• The cruise line will usually ask for your credit card information during your online check-in and again at your physical check-in. And they usually place a hold on your credit card for approximately $300 to $400 per person, depending on cruise line and length of trip. Make sure to check your onboard account regularly -- especially before leaving the ship. Errors are much easier to fix while you're still onboard. You can access your expenditures  either through your stateroom TV or at the purser's desk.

 

• Samsung Galaxy Note 7 cell phones are currently banned from all cruise lines.

 

• Don't miss the sailaway party. Start your cruise on a high!

 

Cruise ships are the happiest places on earth. Enjoy your cruise!