How to Prepare for your First Cruise Trip: Cruise Lines, Booking, Packing and Seasick Hacks

Taking your first cruise can be a bit daunting. There are so many things to think about and plan for. But don’t worry, I am here to help you prepare for your first cruise. 

Choosing Cruise Lines

• Whether you want to take a cruise to the Caribbean, Mexico, Australia or Alaska, first, you will need to choose the right cruise line for you. 
• There are many different types of cruises, from luxury to budget-friendly options. For instance, a Mega cruise is a common tourism cruise  that offers a form of travelling with all-inclusive holiday packages. Normally it tours around different cities and ports with a specific itinerary. 
• Examples of cruise lines include; Royal Caribbean, Carnival, Princess, and Disney Cruises.

Booking 

• The same way I recommended booking with an agent while taking your First Safari, in my previous article, I also recommend booking your cruise with an agent. 
• Travel agents will make your booking experience smooth and they always have the best cruise trip offers from various cruise lines. They will also guide you towards the best Cruise ship according to your preferences. 
• For instance, If you are the type of person that loves only Adult Cruise, travel agents will direct you to the right cruise line.

Note: Remember when you buy a cruise ticket you agree to the cruise contract. For example a cruise contract may state that the travel itinerary may change based on weather related issues. Therefore, the cruise line may not travel to a particular destination to keep everyone safe.

• Do not book your flight the same day as your cruise because you might end up missing your cruise. At least try to fly out one or two days before your cruise and book a hotel at your port city departure.
• Avoid booking flights with connection. Typically the air can be tricky and you might get stuck at your connection because of bad weather and miss your ship.

After Booking

• After booking, take some time and go to your Cruise line’s website and look at the frequently asked questions to get an overview of what not to bring onboard. Most cruise lines will not allow you to bring in food. Having an overview of what not to bring onboard will save you a ton of time on what to pack and what not to pack. Plus who wants the embarrassment of having their things confiscated while trying to board the cruise. I know I wouldn’t want that.
• Get to the port early and allow yourself to check in early. You will get enough time to get to your room, put your suitcases and valuables and check some of the activities and shows available on board before they fill up.

What Activities to Expect

• Most of the activities on cruise do not come with cruise tickets. Meaning you will have to pay extra money to take part in those activities.
• There are many activities on cruise and some will require you to reserve them early. So make sure you reserve your favorite signature shows or activities early.
• If you are a beginner and probably wondering what to expect while on a cruise trip, here is a list of what to expect;
• Special dining places

• Wine tastings 
• Spa treatments
• Onboard shopping
• Miniature golf
• Rock climbing
• Flowriding
• Shuffle Board

What Clothes and other Items to Pack

• Pack both day and night time outfits. I recommend summer dresses, dinner dresses, shorts, tees and bathing suites. 
• Also pack comfortable sandals for the day activities and heels for your evening events and formal nights. Learn more on packing tips here.
• Don’t forget to pack essential items such as hand sanitizer, toiletries and your beauty products.
• Other miscellaneous things include; non-surge power bar, motion sensor nightlights and battery operated portable fan.
• Some cruise ships can also allow you to carry a limited amount of wine bottles. Therefore, bring your best bottle of wine or champagne and enjoy it on board in your cabin.

What Not to Wear

• Some Cruise lines normally have a strict protocol when it comes to what to wear in the main dining area. Make sure you have dinner dresses, heels or something suitable for dinner without breaking the fashion protocol. Do not wear shorts, flip-flops or cut-off jeans. Just keep it classic, fashionable and beautiful.
• Do not walk around with bikinis or pool wear outside the pool area. I think this is obvious to many of us. Walking around with pool wear to the buffet area or lounge is not cute. The cruise has many people including children and walking with a bikini everywhere will not look good.
• Also, some cruise lines might not permit wearing thongs or see-thru bathing suits while at the pool.Countercheck with your cruise line rules before carrying your beautiful bikini thong.
• Do not walk around with pajamas outside your cabin. Honestly pajamas are called pajamas because they are meant for sleep time. You don’t want to embarrass yourself walking around with pj’s while everyone else is dressed in nice, casual or outdoors activities wear. 
• Since you will be doing many activities and probably walking a lot inside the cruise, do not wear uncomfortable shoes. Wear comfortable shoes that will allow you to walk freely, and engage in different activities without limitations.

Seasick Hacks and Tricks

• Choose a mid ship cabin. A good cabin location is ideal and will help you especially when you experience motion sickness or seasickness. Also, you can try to book a cabin with a balcony facing the sea. The good view, fresh air and the sea will help you relax and minimize seasickness.
• In case you are not at a mid ship cabin, try to go to the mid and airy spot of the cruise ship. Get some fresh air and look at the horizon to stay calm.
• Eat green apples to help settle your stomach when experiencing motion sickness. You can grab them at the buffet when you first arrive at the cruise ship and have a couple in your cabin. Green apples contain enzymes called pectin and sugar that aids in neutralizing the stomach.
• Bring ginger or Ginger Candies to control motion sickness. Taking ginger delays the onset of sickness about twice as long as taking the medication.
• Bring prescription medications to help you deal with seasickness. Read more on prescription medication for seasickness here.
• Wear an Acupressure Wristband which works with acupressure points and help control motion sickness
• Overall make sure you are well rested before sailing. Earlier in the article I recommended travelling a day or two to your port city departure point to ensure you are well rested and ready for your cruise trip.