At Budget Travel News we strive to bring you the best budget travel deals possible. Here are a few tips that will help you when you are taking a cruise. So the excitement is just setting in after having booked your first cruise. The first thing you need to do is make sure your passport is recent passport. Don't wait to get one if you don't have one, now is the time to do it.
As soon as you receive your cruise documents book your shore excursions. This will not only secure those activities that you really want to experience, but it will also mean that upon your arrival your shore tickets will be waiting for you and when you board you will be able to skip standing in a long line at the shore excursion desk.
Don't over pack when packing. Remember that cruise cabins are usually small. Pack clothes that you can wear mix and match. Regarding formal nights be sure to read the cruise's dress policy. Head for the buffet or order in on the nights you prefer not to dress up.
Be sure to include toiletries, a change of clothes, sunscreen, sandals, medications, swimsuits, prescriptions, cameras, cruise documents, and airline tickets in your carryon bag.
At a minimum of two weeks prior to your departure refill all of your prescriptions and take with you an extra supply in case there is a delay in your return. Ask your doctor about seasickness prevention.
Pack your medicines that are bought over the counter in your checked luggage and your prescription medications in your carryon bags. Pack all containers, which must be 3 oz. or less in a quart size zip lock bag. Plan accordingly since purchasing incidentals onboard can be very expensive.
Notify a person on shore of your whereabouts while you are gone. However, make sure they are aware that phone charges can run as much as to $12 per minute for both parties; you and the caller. Be sure to include the ship phone number, room number, and the name of your ship in your emergency contact information. The cheapest form of communication is Email. There are onboard internet cafes on board and while you will have to pay for the service, it's much less expensive than using the telephone. With regard to cell phone usage you will have to check with travel agent. Although this is another communication alternative, however, don't forget that roaming charges add up quickly.
Prior to leaving on your cruise buy all of your photo supplies and equipment. Photo equipment are often much more expensive than when purchased bought in port or onboard. Carry your digital cards, batteries, and film packs in zip lock plastic bags in your carryon since the x ray machines and security will often damage them.
The first thing you see at your cruise terminal is a group of porters. These porters will check your larger bags for you and then deliver them to you in your cabin. The customary tip for the porters is usually about $2 per bag.
Be sure to have your paperwork ready ahead of time and be ready to show your credit card that you want to use for expenses while aboard the ship, as well as your passport and registration. Should you decide to pay in cash, there is a $250 minimum which is required for expenses while you are onboard.
The cruise line will do a credit card authorization for a predetermined amount of money during check in. Most cruises usually authorize as much as $200 in charges daily. The cost of onboard shopping, spa treatments, casino action, special programs, and alcoholic beverages can add up quickly. The amount of credit authorized will be held as a security deposit, although you will only be billed for what you actually spend.
If there was ever a time that you want to be sure you have plenty of cash on hand, this is it. Make sure you have some tip money available. Don't count on credit cards or travelers' because you may have a hard time finding an ATM in port and there are some places that do not accept travelers' checks.
Except for wine most cruise ships forbid guests from bringing their own liquor aboard. Read your cruise info before leaving home with the wine. Also, you will be charged a corkage fee, which can be as much as $25 if you want your wine served to you in one of the dining rooms.