A First-Time Cruiser’s Planning Checklist

Congratulations! You’ve decided to set sail on your first cruise. You got your destination picked out and booked your cruise - but now what? Check out the list below to help prepare you in the months before your adventure begins.

Six or more months prior to your cruise

• Purchase travel insurance. The last thing you want to think about is the list of things that could go wrong before and during your vacation. Whether it’s to cover foreseeable issues or protecting your investment from unexpected problems, it’s good to be covered…just in case.
• Make sure your passport is updated. Passports can take up to six weeks to receive in the mail. If you don’t have a passport or are due to renew, don’t wait any longer.
   

Three to four months prior to your cruise

• Book flights and pre- or post-night hotel stays.
• Research shore excursions. Cruise lines feature a wide variety of on-shore excursions, like snorkeling or hiking through the rainforest.
• Pay your final bills.
   

Two Months prior to your cruise

• Book shore excursions. Yes, you can book shore excursions on the cruise, however that flightseeing tour you’ve been dreaming of may be sold out once you get onboard. 
• Shop for large-ticket items, such as wardrobe and luggage. Peruse your wardrobe for destination appropriate attire – don’t forget formal nights onboard! Inspect your luggage and if there are any tears or it's in poor condition, plan on purchasing a new set.
   

One month to two weeks prior to your cruise

• Research your ship and destination ports. Don’t cruise blind or you’ll end up in a large-sized port, feeling overwhelmed and unsure of what to do for the next eight hours. Even if you’ve booked an on-shore excursion, it might only take three hours and you’re left with many hours to kill.
• Make arrangements for your home while you’re gone. Go online and set dates for the post office to hold your mail and check with your newspaper service, too. Make preparations for your dog or cat at a sitter or kennel.
• Create a packing list. Keep in mind that your cruise may have multiple ports, which means multiple weather forecasts, and always consider on-shore excursions (such as hiking boots for a nature walk) when creating your list.

One Week prior to your cruise

• Leave your travel information and a copy of passport with a family member or close friend.
• Call your bank and credit cards to alert them of your travel plans
• Let the packing begin! Use the packing list you created to help keep you organized.
• Print any boarding documents or other information you will need about your cruise. It’s also good to review that all required paperwork is completed
   

The day before your cruise

• Charge all electronics – don’t forget to pack the chargers!
• Double-check everything on your packing list. Throw last items in your suitcase and make sure you have everything you need in your carry-on: passport, cash, credit cards, documents, etc.
• Get a good night’s rest. With the anticipation of your adventure, it may be hard to get a full eight hours of sleep, but getting a good sleep is key to starting your vacation on the right foot.
   

A little planning goes a long way. AAA Travel agents can assist you in the planning process to ensure that your vacation is stress-free. Click here to find an agent near you.