Check-in is one of the most exciting steps leading up to your trip. It means your vacation is only a few days away and that it’s soon time to leave.
Nowadays, you can either check in online or do it in person. In both cases, there are a few essential things to keep in mind to ensure a stress-free departure.
Let’s see what you need to watch out for.
1. Always Check the Expiration Date of Your Documents
One of the most important things to do before checking in is to check the expiration dates of your documents.
You must do it as soon as you can, since renewing a passport can take several weeks.
Consider that some countries require the passport to be valid for at least six more months. Therefore, you should renew it even if the expiration date is several months away.
Here’s what a passenger wrote in a cruise-focused Facebook group just a few days ago. As you can see, these things really do happen, so don’t take them lightly.
2. Bring a small carry-on bag
Remember to take a small carry-on bag with you. Inside, you should put all the essentials that you cannot leave inside the suitcase.
I usually put the medications that I take every day, a change of clothes, my cell phone and charger, my glasses, and a bathing suit.
You can find the complete list in the article titled “20 things you should always pack in your cruise carry-on bag.”
In addition, I’ve explained why you should bring a bathing suit in the article on the cruise ship embarkation day do’s and don’ts.
Medications and Health
When you go on a trip, there are certain things you absolutely cannot leave at home, like your regular medications and any essential medical documents.
Consider that on a cruise ship, medication availability is limited, so you may not have access to the ones you need.
In addition, you should bring medical documents detailing any illnesses, allergies, or disabilities, in case you need to present them to doctors or embarkation staff.
Transportation
Before check-in, you should book all the transportation to reach the port on time.
I’ve explained how soon you should get to the port in this article.
The critical thing to note is to never arrive less than 1 hour before the ship’s departure. In this case, you may be denied boarding.
Usually, if the port is very far from your home, it is recommended to leave the day before, especially if you have to take a flight.
Electronics
At check-in, make sure your cell phone is well-charged or that you have an extra external battery.
This is especially important if you have documents in a digital format and need to show them from your cell phone.
When you’re waiting in port, it’s also the best moment to download any offline maps or entertainment, since you may not have internet access on the ship.
Insurance
I personally consider travel insurance vital for unexpected emergencies, cancellations, or medical needs.
During check-in, they may ask you if you have one or if you want to add one to your reservation.
My advice is to purchase it in advance so you can evaluate the terms and conditions thoroughly.
You can find more info in the article on how to choose cruise travel insurance.
Home Preparation
Another thing you need to do right before check-in is to start preparing your home for departure, especially if you will be away for several days.
When you leave, ensure that everything is turned off and that your windows and doors are properly locked.
If you can, arrange for someone to take care of your home (e.g., watering plants, collecting mail).
You can find all the things to do in the article on the 10 essential things to do before your cruise for a stress-free vacation.
