Byte Size Cruises here - welcome back! If this is your first time here, we are glad to have you. We are a travel agency in Philadelphia, PA specializing in ALL things cruising. Our goal is to share the best and most up-to-date information with you so you can plan and go on an amazing cruise vacation! If you enjoy cruising, or if you want to learn more about it, you're in the right place. Check us out on our YouTube channel here!
We are going on a cruise in 10 days; the countdown has officially begun! This is the time that we really start preparing to go on our cruise. As a team, we have been on many cruises and have gotten our cruise prep down to a science. Here is our list of essential top 10 things to do 10 days before your cruise. Let's get started!
1. Download the Cruise App. This is something you want to do ahead of time so you can familiarize yourself with it and make sure all of the information on there is correct. You will need to have the cruise app to embark on your cruise. This is the time to double-check that your name is spelled correctly, your contact and credit card information is correct, that you have all the necessary documents to cruise, etc. We totally understand if you don't want to carry your phone around while on vacation, however, you will need it for the process of getting through the terminal and physically getting onto the ship. The app is incredibly helpful while on your cruise to be able to make reservations, check the daily schedule, search for things, etc. but it is not necessary if you'd rather be device-free.
2. Build a Packing List. This is important for a handful of reasons. You want to make sure you have everything you need AND that you don't bring a lot of unnecessary items that you won't use. It can be really hard to remember everything off the top of your head, especially if you are packing last minute. If you are rushing around while packing, it can be easy to forget small important things, such as medications or device chargers. To help you create your list specifically for your cruise, check to see what events are going on and if there are any themed parties. You might want to bring an item or two related to these fun things.
3. Print the documents that you need! This is something you'll want to do ahead of time and make sure to put them in a safe place that is going with you on your cruise. Depending on the cruise line you are traveling with, you might need to print a boarding pass, copies of important personal documents, etc. We highly recommend that you take photos of and make printed copies of your Passport, Driver's License, etc. just in case something happens to the originals. You can't use copies as official documents however it can open the door to allow you to make the phone call, get in touch with staff, or at least prove that you are who you say you are.
4. Check your phone plan. If you are planning to use your phone while you are on your cruise, you're going to want to contact your service provider and choose a travel plan that works for you. Many providers (Verizon, AT&T, etc.) now have cruise ship plans that are designed for travelers. Now, these plans aren't super cheap, however, they are a better deal than racking up roaming charges while away. Also, ask your service provider about charges abroad for when you are at port. Most cellular companies offer a daily rate for travelers in other countries.
5. Book and pay for excursions and packages. Here's the deal: NOTHING is cheaper on the ship! Make sure you're booking all of these things ahead of time to save yourself some cash and set yourself up for success. If you definitely want to go on a specific excursion, you'll want to book it ASAP to make sure there is a space reserved for you (they might sell out.) Similarly, if you know you're going to get the drink or WiFi package, do so as early as possible.
6. Get a weather app that you like! Right now, we are in hurricane season and weather can severely impact your cruising experience, especially if you aren't prepared. Make sure to check the weather for where you are cruising ahead of time and pack accordingly.
7. Make reservations! If you are able to, use the cruising app to make any entertainment and dining reservations ahead of time. Once you get on the ship, you'll want to relax and enjoy yourself, not do a bunch of administration things. The more you can get done ahead of time, the better.
8. Bring cash and credit cards that you need. We recommend that people bring at least two credit cards just in case one has some kind of issue and bring some cash. This enables you to make sure you can tip easily if you would like or pay for something quickly at port.
9. Get travel insurance. Make sure you have travel insurance, that you understand the paperwork and that you have the insurance documentation with you. Travel insurance is always a good idea and we did a whole blog post on why you should get travel insurance. Check it out here.
10. Download movies and shows. About a week before, you'll want to download any movies or shows you'd like to watch while on your cruise. Wifi and streaming are expensive on cruises and you can avoid this cost by simply downloading everything ahead of time and having them ready to go.
That's our list of the essential 10 things you should do 10 days before you cruise! What do you think of our list? Would you add anything else? We would love to hear from you! comment below.