Your First Cruise
with Kids

Check everyone's documents. A passport for each person is the safest choice, even for kids.

Buy travel insurance that covers the whole family.

Add allergies, medical or accessibility needs to your booking.

Book shore excursions and specialty dining early. Family favorites sell out.

Download the cruise line's app and finish online check-in.

Show your kids photos and videos of the ship so it feels familiar.

In your carry-on: documents, medications, swimsuits, sunscreen and a change of clothes. Checked bags can take hours to reach your cabin.

A USB charging cube. Most cruise lines ban power strips and multi-plug outlets.

Magnetic hooks for the metal cabin walls, and a small night light.

Lanyards for cruise cards, refillable water bottles and a small backpack for port days.

Motion sickness remedies. Ask your pediatrician what's right for each child.

A favorite comfort item for bedtime.

Arrive in the port city the day before, so a delay can't cost you the ship.

Snap a photo of each child that morning, and agree on a meeting spot on board.

Finish the safety briefing (muster drill) as soon as you board.

Register the kids for the kids' club and meet the staff.

Walk the ship together on day one. Point out your deck, cabin number and meeting spot.

Plan one big activity a day, plus downtime. Tired kids melt down fast.

Set check-in times with older kids and use the cruise app's chat to stay in touch.

Watch kids at the pool at all times. Use life jackets for young or new swimmers.

Reapply sunscreen often. The sun at sea is stronger than it feels.

Reserve shows and family activities in the app as soon as booking opens.

Keep pajamas, medications, documents and tomorrow's clothes out of the bags you put outside the door.

Check your onboard account in the app before you leave.

Pick a departure time that fits the kids' sleep and your flight home.

Ask each child for their favorite moment, and write it down.