Wondering what to pack or what to check before you leave? Start wherever you need a hand. These are a few things I like to think through before a trip.
01 / Before you book
Documents first.
I like to get this part sorted early, so it doesn’t get in the way of the fun part.
Passport & entry tips +
Check each stop. Passport validity, visas, transit rules, and entry authorizations depend on your nationality and route. Check your destination’s official requirements.
Match your name. Compare the name on your reservations with your travel document before tickets are issued.
Keep a backup. Store secure copies of important documents separately from the originals. A copy does not replace the required original.
Think about what you’ll really wear, not every possible “what if.”
Packing tips +
Build a small wardrobe. Choose pieces that work together, comfortable shoes, and layers for the forecast. Check whether laundry is available.
Keep essentials close. Put documents, needed medication, valuables, and a change of clothes in your carry-on.
Check the limits. Confirm your airline’s bag dimensions and weight allowance, including any connecting carriers. Review screening and battery rules before packing.
Let’s get the boarding details out of the way so you can enjoy that first day.
Cruise tips +
Use your cruise line’s instructions. Complete check-in, confirm required documents, and note your assigned terminal arrival time.
Pack a first-day bag. Keep documents, medication, and anything you want for the first few hours with you while checked bags make their way to your cabin.
Know the return time. At every port, confirm the ship’s all-aboard time and which clock to follow. Leave room for the journey back.
Boarding rules vary by sailing. Your cruise line’s current instructions come first.
05 / Out exploring
Leave room in the day.
You don’t have to fit everything in. Leave a little time to enjoy where you are.
Itinerary tips +
Choose your anchors. Pick the experiences you care about most, then build the rest of the day around them.
Group nearby stops. Check travel times and opening days before booking timed entries. A map can reveal an overly ambitious day.
Keep some time open. A slow lunch, an unexpected view, or a relaxed first day after a long flight can be part of the plan.
Tell me the pace you enjoy, along with the places you want to see. I want the trip to feel good to you.
06 / Everyday essentials
Stay connected. Be ready.
A few things are much easier to sort out while you’re still at home.
Phone & payment tips +
Check your phone plan. Confirm roaming coverage and charges with your provider. Download maps, addresses, and reservation details before departure.
Plan how you will pay. Ask your card provider about overseas use and fees, and arrange a backup way to pay.
Save the useful numbers. Keep your hotel, transfer provider, airline, and emergency contacts accessible offline.
For a cruise, ask your provider about shipboard and maritime network charges separately.
Before the bags are zipped
Your almost-ready checklist.
Here’s a last look at the basics. Check them off as you go, then get back to looking forward to your trip.
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Put it into practice
Make the journey feel like yours.
Cruises & expeditions
Ask what is included.
Before choosing extras, I’d look at what is already included: transfers, excursions, equipment, dining, and Wi-Fi. Every sailing can be a little different.
It’s easy to look at a train ride and think, “That’s not far.” Remember the packing, station, check-in, and settling-in time too. I’d rather leave you time to enjoy the next place.
Feet up. Sea ahead. A little room in the itinerary to enjoy doing absolutely nothing.
Keep these handy
Go straight to the source.
I’ve put a few useful official links in one place. Requirements can change, so check the current guidance for your passport, route, airline, and cruise line.
