13 Cruise Mistakes Even Seasoned Travelers Make-and How to Avoid Them on Your Next Sailing

"And cruise passengers shouldn't be lulled into luggage complacency just because they only have to unpack once. "First-time cruisers may not realize that luggage needs to fit under your bed," says travel journalist and cruise veteran Sarah Greaves-Gabbadon. "Most stateroom closets are too small to store a full-sized suitcase. So, instead of a hardshell bag, pack a soft-sided suitcase or large duffel that can easily slip underneath and out of your way.""

"Maybe you're finally taking your first cruise vacation, or maybe you've taken several and are planning the next one. No matter how many times you've set sail, chances are that at some point, you wish you'd done something differently-picked a different shore excursion, a different itinerary, or a different ship or cruise line altogether. And if you've ever made a classic cruise mistake-like flying into your departure port the same day you sail, you know the stress these common travel missteps can cause."

Cruise travelers often make avoidable mistakes that cost time, money, and convenience. Overpacking creates storage and handling problems; soft-sided suitcases or duffels that fit under the bed are preferable. Keep a swimsuit and a change of clothes in carry-on luggage because cabins and bags can be delayed after boarding. Flying into the departure port the same day as sailings risks missed embarkation. Bring medications and important documents in carry-on. Research onboard costs, specialty dining, gratuities, dress codes, shore excursion logistics, and travel insurance to prevent unpleasant surprises and ensure smoother embarkation and disembarkation experiences.

Read at Travel + Leisure