by Todd Holderson
When you think about preparing for your cruise vacation the most important things are not necessarily the perfect swimsuit and sandals. There are a few key steps you can take before your cruise vacation that will ensure you have a stress-free trip. First ensure you have a valid passport. Next pre-book your shore excursions and ship appointments online. Finally assess your available credit and get plenty of cash to make sure you aren't caught short at sea. These small steps add up to peace of mind so you can really relax during your cruise vacation.
Depending on where your cruise vacation takes you it is a good idea to get or renew your passport. Recent changes in US law mean that a passport is required to reenter the States from Mexico and the Caribbean. If you already have a passport check the expiration date and make sure it has blank pages. You don't want to be on the high seas when you realize that it expired a month before or worse during your trip.
Those who don't yet have a passport should pay the extra money for faster processing in order to get it as soon as possible before your trip. Make a few copies of your passport before the trip. They will come in handy if yours is lost or stolen. It's a great idea to put one in your suitcase and give one to your emergency contact back in the states.
Your company will send your documents for your cruise vacation a month or so before embarkation. They contain important information about ship activities and amenities as well as shore excursions. Many cruise lines allow you to make reservations online via their websites. While you could wait until you board your cruise ship to make these arrangements you'll likely find a long line and inconvenient times available. Booking ahead allows you to begin enjoying yourself the minute you step on board knowing that you've got it all taken care of.
A cruise vacation is a great way to celebrate a milestone such as a honeymoon birthday or anniversary. Check with your cruise line to see what kinds of special packages are available. You should check as soon as possible so that they have plenty of time to make arrangements. Those who wait until they are at sea to request twelve dozen orange roses will likely be disappointed.
A few months before your cruise vacation take a look at your amount of available credit. You'll want to know as soon as possible if you must open another card pay down your balance or move money around. Upon check in you can expect a hold on your credit card for incidentals during your trip. Liners could set holds ranging $50-200 per day on your card.
Confirm your cruise line's policy with a quick call. This is really important if you plan more hotel stays and car rentals during your vacation which mean multiple holds on your account. While you will ultimately only be charged for actual expenses it make take several days for it all be adjusted. To avoid the embarrassment of a declined credit card during your trip make sure you have enough available credit.
You'll want to make sure you bring some cash on your cruise vacation as well. Your credit card will get a good workout but there are times when you'll need cash. Traveler's checks are not taken as often as they used to because of the high rate of fraud. Most ships have ATMs but you can count on a high fee and they have been known to run empty. You'll be very glad you have some hard cash to make purchases from street vendors and smaller merchants on shore. Also cash tips are a great way to recognize all the great service from your cruise ship staff. Packing some cash is an easy way to avoid inconvenience on your dream vacation.
Getting organized for your cruise vacation isn't that difficult. A little advanced preparation will ensure that you enjoy your cruise vacation from the moment you step on board. Get a valid passport make your reservations in advance secure plenty of credit and cash. These small steps will pay off in maximum cruise vacation enjoyment. Oh and don't forget to pack your swimsuit.
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