Cruises are a great way for families to vacation together. But why are these tips for cruising with kids important? Well, these tips will prove to be incredibly useful when planning a cruise for the very first time. The top thing that makes cruises a hit with families is that they have the chance to see several destinations while having to unpack just once. There are scores of best cruises for kids to choose from. While cruising with a toddler Royal Caribbean or the Disney Cruise are good choices, there are others to choose from as well. But before you do so, here are a few essential tips for cruising with kids that you should check out.
Essential Tips for Cruising With Kids:
For your vacation this year, forgo booking last minute flights to a foreign destination and pick a cruise instead. This way, you’ll be able to explore more than just one destination. But are cruises safe for toddlers, you ask? Cruising with toddlers on Carnival or other cruises may be challenging but not impossible. Just follow the below-listed tips for cruising with kids and you can have a hassle-free experience.
1. Do excellent research
This is among the most essential tips for cruising with kids. Good research is the key to enjoying a hassle-free cruise with your kids. What kind of cruise would suit them? What restrictions does the cruise line have? What are your food options? How well do you think your kids will adjust? Weigh these and other such important questions before making that final cruise choice. Having a discussion with your kids will help you out.
2. Know what to pack
The best part about a cruise is that you need to unpack only once. Even so, make sure you pack as light as you can whether it’s a cruise with twin toddlers or adolescents. Making a family cruise packing checklist will help you keep everything as organized as you can. Keep a separate backpack to carry when out on day-excursions.
3. Book a short itinerary the first time
If this is your very first cruise, then it’s best to book a short one. This will help you test the waters and see how your kids are doing. Whatever the age, kids might need a bit of time to adjust on a cruise. If your kids do great on the first cruise, you can book a longer one the next time. This is among the best tips for cruising with kids to follow.
4. Pick a cruise that caters specifically to kids
Don’t just pick any cruise the first time. One of the top tips for cruising with kids is to find one that caters specifically to kids. For instance, cruises such as the Disney Cruise Line cater to families with kids. There will be a ton of fun things to do for adults and kids alike. This way, you can have a great time without breaking your bank account.
5. Arrive a day in advance
Don’t take that risk of reaching the cruise line on the same day it’s scheduled to depart. What if you miss your flights and arrive late? You will miss the entire cruise! Why not just book business class flights and arrive a day ahead? Eliminate your chances of missing the ship. Also, there will be plenty of time to get on board the ship relaxedly instead of hurrying onto it.
6. Make smart cabin choices
Being incredibly smart when choosing cabins is among the best tips for cruising with kids. If your bunch if a large one, try booking a cabin with a shared room that comes with curtains and a balcony. This way, you won’t need to sit still when your kids are taking a nap. Also, consider taking an inflatable bathtub for the tiny tots and most cruise bathrooms come with showers.
7. Deal with motion sickness
This is among the most important tips for cruising with kids especially if it’s your very first cruise. Take your kids for a routine check-up and ask your doctor on tips to deal with motion sickness. Carry the suggested meds in addition to the essential first-aid box. Also, get them the essential vaccinations prior to the trip.
8. Are there limitations for toddlers and babies?
While many cruise lines will roll out the carpet for kids aged 3 and above, several of them will have restrictions for babies and toddlers. Some won’t even let you board if your infant is less than 6 months old. Also, if your child isn’t potty-trained, he/she may not be allowed to swim in the cruise pool. Check these restrictions before picking the right cruise.
9. Effectively use the kids’ clubs on the cruise
This is among the tips for cruising with kids that will help mom-and-dad get some quality alone-time. Several of the kids’ clubs on the cruise will take your kids off your hands for a little while. So, parents can enjoy a quiet candle-light dinner while their kids are occupied with fun activities organized by the kids’ clubs.
10. Find a cruise that has a pool and other water parks
Pick a modern cruise and you will have better chances of finding pools and other water parks on board. This is important if you’re cruising in the sweltering summer heat. The heat can get incessant and end up irritating most of your family. You can hang out by the pool with your kids to cool off.
11. Be smart when picking shore excursions
Making smart shore-excursion choices are among the best tips for cruising with kids. Just because a day is planned in a particular way doesn’t mean you have to do it. For instance, if all you’re going to do is visit historic places, this will cause immense boredom to toddlers. Instead, you could opt for a fun riverboat ride with your kids and take them out to lunch after.
12. Pre-pay as much as you can
To avoid bumping into unexpected costs while cruising, pre-pay as much as you can. This is among the very best tips for cruising with kids on a reasonable budget. Check detailed expenses with the cruise organizers at the time of booking itself. You’ll be able to save more and won’t be cornered into paying for something you never asked for.
Follow the above-listed tips for cruising with kids and you should be well on your way to cruising in peace. Book flights to USA and try going on a cruise with your kids this vacation. Some of the best cruises for kids you can consider are the Disney Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, Cunard, and Carnival Cruise Line. Pick the best one for you and have the best time cruising with your kids!
