10 Biggest Mistakes New Cruisers Make

Cruising is an awesome way to travel and see the world, but some easy mistakes could impact your experience, especially if you're new to cruising. I made many mistakes on my first cruise (especially the first one on the list), and even after dozens of cruises, I still make mistakes and learn new things. Here are the top 10 mistakes first-time cruisers tend to make and practical tips to help you avoid them.

1. Overpacking

One of the most common mistakes is bringing too much. It’s tempting to pack for every possible occasion, but most cruisers quickly realize they didn’t need half the items they brought. Cruise cabins are generally compact, so overpacking can make the space feel cluttered.

Solution: Focus on versatile clothing that can transition daily to night and work across multiple settings. For example, a nice dress or blazer can serve different purposes with the right accessories. Pack a jacket or sweater, as cruise ships can be chilly, and consider taking advantage of onboard laundry services to save space. Don't be afraid to repeat outfits for your Main Dining Room (MDR) dinners! You can also get my free cruise packing list to help prepare.

2. Flying in on Embarkation Day

Many new cruisers assume they can fly in the day their cruise departs, but this can be a recipe for disaster. Flight delays, cancellations, or other unexpected travel hiccups can lead to a stressful start — or worse, missing your cruise entirely.

Solution: Arrive a day early to give yourself a buffer. This protects you from delays and allows you to settle in and explore the departure city, turning your vacation into a more relaxed experience from the start. It's stressful flying in same day, so don't create that unnecessary stress if you don't have to.

3. Skipping Pre-Cruise Planning

Once onboard, there’s limited time to plan, and unless you bought the internet package, there's no Wi-Fi, so it’s best to research and organize ahead of time. This is particularly true for port days, as some destinations require a bit of travel to reach popular attractions. Without planning, you might miss out on must-see sights or have limited choices for shore excursions.

Solution: Review each port in advance and decide what you'd like to do, whether it's a guided tour, beach day, or DIY exploration. Many cruisers benefit from pre-booking excursions, as popular tours can sell out quickly.

4. Ignoring the Deck Plan

Cruise ships are large, and each one is designed differently. It’s easy to miss out on great spots, like quiet lounges, specialty coffee bars, or even a library or observation deck.

Solution: Familiarize yourself with the deck plan early on through the cruise line's app or printed deck maps. Take time to explore the ship on your first day. Knowing where everything is will save you time later and help you make the most of the onboard amenities.

5. Overspending Onboard

Most cruise lines offer a convenient room charge system, so you can simply swipe your cabin card to make purchases. But this ease of use often leads to overspending, especially on extras like drinks, spa treatments, or excursions.

Solution: Set a daily spending limit and monitor your charges using the cruise line’s app. Some cruisers find establishing a budget before the trip helpful, ensuring they only spend on things they truly want to enjoy.

6. Overdoing the Drink Package

Drink packages are popular, but trying to get “your money’s worth” can backfire, especially if you overindulge on the first day. Overconsumption can lead to dehydration, fatigue, or even missing out on activities. I'm not a big drinker, so I rarely buy the drink package, but when I do have it, I find myself pounding back several sugary coffee drinks a day, which is unhealthy.

Solution: Pace yourself and stay hydrated with water. Remember that drink packages are designed for enjoyment over the entire cruise, not in one day. Take your time and enjoy responsibly so you feel great throughout your trip.

7. Forgetting to Notify Your Bank

Using your debit or credit card in foreign countries can trigger fraud alerts, resulting in declined transactions. This can be a major inconvenience, especially if you’re on a tight schedule or don’t have backup payment options.

Solution: Before leaving, inform your bank or credit card provider of your travel dates and destinations. This simple step helps avoid potential issues and ensures your cards work seamlessly wherever you are.

8. Not Researching Dining Options

Cruise ships have a variety of dining venues beyond the main dining room and buffet, from specialty restaurants to quick bites and complimentary cafes. Many cruisers only discover these options too late in the trip, missing out on diverse culinary experiences.

Solution: Spend some time reviewing the dining options offered on your ship before departure. Many cruise lines include specialty options in the fare or offer themed dining nights. Knowing where to eat can enhance your cruise experience and let you enjoy all the dining treats available.

9. Not Putting Your Phone in Airplane Mode

Leaving your phone on its regular cellular setting can lead to expensive roaming fees if you’re in international waters. Some first-time cruisers only realize this when they receive a surprisingly high bill.

Solution: Switch your phone to airplane mode as soon as you board and keep it on throughout the cruise. If you want to stay connected, consider purchasing the ship’s Wi-Fi package. This is generally more affordable and allows you to control your data usage.

10. Only Booking Ship-Arranged Excursions

While cruise-line excursions are convenient and reliable, they often come at a premium. They’re also typically structured, with large groups and set schedules, which can be limiting.

Solution: Research reputable third-party tour companies, many offering smaller group experiences at lower prices. If you’re worried about timing, look for vendors that offer a "back-to-ship" guarantee, or consider a mix of cruise-line and independent excursions based on the port and your comfort level.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll set yourself up for a smoother, more enjoyable cruise. But if and when you do make mistakes, don't beat yourself up about it. As I noted in the intro, even after the many cruises I've taken, I still make mistakes. The important thing is to learn from them and avoid repeating them in the future.