People planning their first cruise vacation can win from picking up a few cruise tips from seasoned cruisers prior to heading out on their adventure. Also remember that your cruise is your vacation, so try to enjoy it in your own way, while paying heed to the best cruise packing tips and cruise travel tips for every different type of cruise. You should plan ahead and that is an important part of cruise tips, but only when combined with the spontaneity of being able to take an unexpected exploration trip at a moment’s notice.

Consider the cruise packing tips that can be among the most helpful type of cruise travel tips. If you travel anywhere cold, i.e., Alaska, Antarctica or Northern Europe, layers are the key. Besides warm parkas, winter sweaters and hats, take along long-sleeved t-shirts and the like to allow you a choice between heavier layers and lighter layers while onboard the ship. Do not forget tennis shoes and walking gear plus a few choices for formal events; long dresses for ladies and a suit or tuxedo for gentlemen. In case you leave any of these items at home, they will, of course, be available for purchase on the ship, but likely at a much higher price than you may want to spend.

Cruise packing tips are slightly different for warm weather cruising. You will need shorts, skirts, and breathable cotton clothing on cruises to places like the South Pacific, the Caribbean or South America during the warmest months. Also bring a light jacket or a rainproof jacket, as tropical areas do experience rain. You should also bring along your formal gear, as almost no large cruise ship is exempt from those formal dinner evenings, and you will feel out of place without the proper attire. Another must is comfortable walking shoes, particularly when you arrive at a port and plan to spend the day on land.

Beware of the medical care and the issue of seasickness. Generally, large cruise ships will have medical centers on board, and even smaller cruise ships will at least have someone who has Emergency Medical Training. However, consider that you will likely be charged for these services. If you are far away from home, your personal medical insurance may or may not be honored. One of the more useful and important cruise travel recommendations is to buy separate travelers insurance to cover medical expenses and other items like lost luggage or last minute cancellations. In case you are among those travelers who experience seasickness, remember that for most people this sensation will disappear after a day or two. Meanwhile, keep your stomach full of snacks (crackers and water are the best) and rest when you need to. And if you just can’t stand it or the symptoms continue, get some seasickness pills (you can find these onboard the ship on every type of cruise), which take care of the problem very quickly.

Another challenge for some first-time cruisers is finding your way around onboard. One of the most helpful ways to sort it all out is to remember the lingo for directions on board any type of cruises. “Stern” refers to the back, while “bow” is the front of the ship. Starboard is the right side and port is the left side of the ship (when facing the bow). Being familiar with these terms and what they mean can save you from wandering aimlessly through the narrow corridors of a large cruise ship.