Travel planning with passport, map and suitcase
Travel Tips & Preparation

Things to Consider

Before and after you book, there are important details to keep in mind. Relaxing Vacations is here to help you prepare for a safe, smooth, and worry-free vacation.

Before Booking a Vacation

According to the World Health Organization, more than 900 million international journeys are undertaken every year. Global travel on this scale exposes many people to a range of health risks. However, whatever your age or destination, properly preparing before you leave can help you have a happy and enjoyable trip.

Country Travel Advice & Advisories

No matter where in the world you intend to travel it is always important to have the most up-to-date travel information. On the U.S. Department of State website you will find official information and advice for each country — including Travel Advisories, Alerts, entry and exit requirements, local laws and customs, health conditions, and the address of the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.

Pay close attention to entry and exit requirements, local laws and customs, and health conditions to decide whether traveling to that country is right for you. Take embassy contact information with you in case of an emergency.

View Travel Advisories

Travel Health

At Relaxing Vacations we do our best to provide our clients with the most accurate and up-to-date travel health information for the region you will be visiting. It is important that you get advice from your family physician or a specialist from a Travel Health clinic before travelling to keep you and your loved ones healthy during your travels.

The key resource for health information is the Travelers’ Health page of the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) website. The CDC website also provides general guidance on health precautions, such as safe food and water precautions and insect-bite protection. The CDC also maintains an international travelers’ hotline at 1-877-FYI-TRIP (1-877-394-8747).

Visit CDC Travelers’ Health

Name Discrepancies — Maiden vs. Married Name

Your passport, airline ticket, and all travel documents must match exactly. If you have recently married or divorced and your legal name has changed, your passport must reflect your current legal name before you travel. Traveling with a passport in your maiden name while your other ID shows your married name (or vice versa) can cause significant issues at check-in and border control.

The name on your ticket must match your government-issued photo ID exactly. While not all airlines require a middle name on your ticket, some do — and if a middle name is included on your ticket, it must match your ID. If your name has changed, update your passport before booking travel. If you are in the process of a name change, bring your marriage certificate or court order as supporting documentation. Do not assume a discrepancy will be overlooked — always verify your airline’s name requirements at the time of booking.

Rental Cars

Renting a car abroad can be a convenient way to explore your destination, but the rules and requirements vary significantly from country to country. Understanding what is required before you arrive can save you from being stranded at the rental counter.

Driver’s License Requirements: Most countries accept a valid U.S. driver’s license for short-term rentals. However, many countries — including Italy, Germany, Austria, Japan, and most of Eastern Europe — require an International Driving Permit (IDP) in addition to your U.S. license. An IDP is not a standalone license; it must be carried alongside your valid U.S. license. You can obtain an IDP through AAA or the American Automobile Touring Alliance before you travel. Age Requirements: Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, and drivers under 25 are often subject to a Young Driver Surcharge. Some companies and countries set the minimum age at 25. Credit Card Requirements: Most rental companies require a major credit card (not a debit card) in the renter’s name for the security deposit. Confirm this before you travel. Insurance: Your U.S. auto insurance may provide some coverage for rental cars abroad, but coverage varies widely. Many credit cards also offer rental car insurance as a benefit. Review your existing coverage before purchasing additional insurance at the counter — but never decline coverage without understanding what you already have.

Get an International Driving Permit (AAA)

Medication

Traveling with prescription or over-the-counter medications requires advance planning, especially for international travel. What is legal in the United States may be restricted, controlled, or outright prohibited in your destination country.

Carry medications in their original labeled containers whenever possible. Bring a letter from your prescribing physician that includes your diagnosis, the medication name (generic and brand), dosage, and the reason it is medically necessary. For controlled substances (such as opioids, benzodiazepines, ADHD medications, or sleep aids), research the specific rules for your destination country well in advance — some countries require advance authorization or import permits. Bring enough medication to last your entire trip, plus extra in case of delays. Split your supply between your carry-on and checked luggage in case one bag is lost. Keep all medications in your carry-on when flying. For destinations with specific health risks (malaria, altitude sickness, traveler’s diarrhea), consult your physician or a Travel Health clinic at least 4–6 weeks before departure to allow time for vaccinations and preventive prescriptions.

Criminal History

A criminal record — even a minor offense, an arrest without conviction, or a charge that was expunged — can affect your ability to enter certain countries. This is one of the most overlooked pre-travel considerations, and discovering the issue at the border is too late.

Canada is one of the most commonly affected destinations for U.S. travelers. Canada considers many U.S. misdemeanor offenses — including DUI/DWI, reckless driving, assault, theft, and drug offenses — to be equivalent to serious crimes under Canadian law. Travelers with these offenses may be denied entry at the border, even if the offense occurred decades ago or was expunged under U.S. law. Travelers who are inadmissible may apply for a Temporary Resident Permit (TRP) or Criminal Rehabilitation through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) before traveling. Other countries with strict entry policies regarding criminal history include Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and the United Kingdom. Each country has its own rules, and the type of offense, how long ago it occurred, and whether a sentence was served all factor into admissibility. If you have any criminal history — no matter how minor or how long ago — research the entry requirements for your destination before booking. Your Relaxing Vacations agent can help you identify potential issues early.

Deposits & Final Payments

Most vacation packages, cruises, and resort bookings require a deposit at the time of booking, with the remaining balance due by a specific final payment deadline. Missing the final payment deadline can result in automatic cancellation of your reservation — and in many cases, forfeiture of your deposit.

Deposit amounts vary by supplier. Cruise lines typically require a deposit of $100–$500 per person at booking, with final payment due 60–120 days before sailing depending on the cruise line and itinerary. Resort and all-inclusive packages may require a larger deposit or full prepayment at the time of booking. Your Relaxing Vacations agent will clearly communicate your deposit amount and final payment due date at the time of booking. We strongly recommend setting a calendar reminder at least one week before your final payment deadline to ensure you are not caught off guard. If you are unable to make a final payment on time, contact your agent immediately — do not wait until the deadline passes. In some cases, extensions or payment arrangements may be possible, but only if requested in advance.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is one of the most important — and most frequently skipped — investments you can make before a trip. A single unexpected event can result in thousands of dollars in non-refundable losses. Travel insurance protects your investment and provides peace of mind.

Trip Cancellation & Interruption: Reimburses non-refundable trip costs if you must cancel or cut your trip short due to a covered reason, such as illness, injury, death of a family member, or certain work-related emergencies. Medical Coverage: Your U.S. health insurance typically provides little to no coverage outside the United States. Travel medical insurance covers emergency medical treatment, hospitalization, and in serious cases, emergency medical evacuation — which can cost $50,000–$200,000+ without coverage. Baggage & Delay: Covers lost, stolen, or damaged luggage and reimburses expenses caused by significant travel delays. Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR): An optional upgrade that allows you to cancel for any reason not covered by standard policies and receive a partial refund (typically 50–75%). CFAR must be purchased within a specific window after your initial trip deposit — usually 10–21 days. Pre-Existing Conditions: Many policies exclude pre-existing medical conditions unless the policy is purchased within a specific window after your initial deposit (typically 10–21 days). If you or a traveling companion has a pre-existing condition, purchase your policy promptly after booking. Your Relaxing Vacations agent can provide travel insurance options at the time of booking. We strongly recommend purchasing a policy — and purchasing it early.

Traveling with a Minor

Traveling internationally with a child who is not accompanied by both parents requires additional documentation to prevent international child abduction. Border agents in many countries — including Canada, Mexico, and most of the Caribbean — may question adults traveling with minors and request proof of parental consent.

If you are traveling with a minor and you are not both of the child’s parents or legal guardians, or if only one parent is traveling with the child, you should carry a notarized letter of consent from the absent parent(s) or legal guardian(s). The letter should include the child’s full name and date of birth, the traveling adult’s full name and relationship to the child, the destination(s) and travel dates, and contact information for the absent parent(s). For children traveling with grandparents, aunts, uncles, or family friends, a notarized consent letter is strongly recommended regardless of destination. Some countries require it by law. All children — including infants — must have their own valid passport for international travel. A child’s passport is valid for 5 years (vs. 10 years for adults). Apply well in advance, as passport processing times can be lengthy.

Traveling While Pregnant

Pregnancy does not have to prevent you from traveling, but it does require additional planning and awareness. Airlines, cruise lines, and certain destinations each have their own policies and risks that expectant mothers should understand before booking.

Airlines: Most airlines allow pregnant travelers to fly domestically up to 36 weeks and internationally up to 28–35 weeks, depending on the carrier. After 28 weeks, many airlines require a letter from your physician confirming your due date and that you are fit to fly. Policies vary by airline — always confirm before booking. Cruise Lines: Most major cruise lines will not allow passengers who are 24 weeks or more pregnant to board at the time of sailing. This is a firm policy, not a guideline. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, confirm the cruise line’s policy and calculate your expected gestational age at the time of embarkation before booking. Zika & Malaria Risk: The CDC advises pregnant women to avoid travel to areas with active Zika virus transmission, as Zika can cause severe birth defects. Many popular tropical destinations — including parts of Mexico, Central America, the Caribbean, and South America — have had Zika activity. Similarly, malaria medications commonly prescribed for travel are not safe during pregnancy. Check the CDC’s destination-specific guidance before booking. Travel Insurance: Standard travel insurance policies may not cover pregnancy-related cancellations or complications unless specifically included. Review your policy carefully and ask your Relaxing Vacations agent about policies that include pregnancy coverage.

CDC Zika Travel Information

Travel Visas — Do You Need One & How to Get It

A visa is an official authorization that allows you to enter, stay in, or transit through a foreign country. Not every destination requires a visa for U.S. passport holders — but when one is required, failing to obtain it before you travel can result in being denied boarding or turned away at the border.

Do I Need a Visa? The U.S. Department of State’s website and the destination country’s embassy website are the most reliable sources for current visa requirements. Requirements can change, so always verify before booking — not just before departure. Types of Visas: • Visa-Free Entry: Many countries allow U.S. passport holders to enter without a visa for short stays (typically 30–90 days). Examples include most of the European Union, the United Kingdom, Japan, and Mexico. • Visa on Arrival: Some countries issue a visa when you arrive at the port of entry. While convenient, these can involve long lines and are not guaranteed — always confirm current availability before relying on this option. • eVisa (Electronic Visa): Many countries now offer online visa applications that are approved and issued electronically before you travel. Examples include India, Turkey, Kenya, and Sri Lanka. Processing times vary from minutes to several weeks. • Embassy/Consulate Visa: Some countries require you to apply in person or by mail through their embassy or consulate. These applications often require supporting documents, photos, fees, and significant lead time — sometimes 4–12 weeks or more. ETIAS (Europe): Beginning in 2025, U.S. travelers visiting Schengen Area countries will need to obtain an ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) travel authorization before departure. This is not a visa, but it is a required pre-travel registration. Key Tips: • Apply early — never wait until the last minute. • Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your travel dates (many countries require this). • Keep copies of your visa approval in both digital and printed form. • Your Relaxing Vacations agent can help identify visa requirements for your destination at the time of booking.

Check Visa Requirements (U.S. State Dept.)

Solo Travel Safety

Traveling alone can be one of the most rewarding experiences of your life — but it also requires a higher level of personal awareness and preparation than group travel. Whether you’re a first-time solo traveler or a seasoned independent explorer, these tips will help you stay safe and confident on the road.

Research Your Destination: Before you go, familiarize yourself with the local culture, customs, and any areas that are considered unsafe for tourists. The U.S. Department of State’s Travel Advisories and the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) are excellent starting points. Share Your Itinerary: Leave a detailed copy of your travel plans — including flight numbers, hotel names and addresses, and excursion details — with a trusted friend or family member at home. Check in regularly so someone always knows where you are. Stay Connected: Purchase an international phone plan or a local SIM card so you always have a way to communicate. Download offline maps (Google Maps, Maps.me) in case you lose data service. Trust Your Instincts: If a situation feels wrong, leave. Solo travelers are sometimes targeted by scammers, pickpockets, and opportunists. Be aware of common tourist scams at your destination before you arrive. Accommodation Safety: Choose well-reviewed accommodations in safe neighborhoods. Inform the front desk that you are traveling alone. Use the door’s deadbolt and security latch, and never open the door to unexpected visitors. Blend In: Avoid displaying expensive jewelry, cameras, or electronics unnecessarily. Dress in a way that respects local customs and doesn’t draw unwanted attention. Enroll in STEP: The Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) is a free service that registers your trip with the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. In an emergency, this allows the U.S. government to contact you and your emergency contacts.

Enroll in STEP

After Booking a Vacation

What Should I Pack?

Relaxing Vacations provides a packing checklist free of charge for both Land and Cruise Travel. Visit our Vacation Checklists page for everything you need to pack for your trip.

View Vacation Checklists

When Will I Receive My Travel Documents?

Travel documents, including any air tickets, itineraries, and other information, are available approximately two to three weeks prior to departure provided full payment has been received.

Tips & Gratuities

Tipping customs vary widely by destination and resort type. At all-inclusive resorts, gratuities are often included in the package price, but it is always appreciated — and sometimes expected — to tip housekeeping, bartenders, servers, and bellhops individually.

In the Caribbean and Mexico, tipping in U.S. dollars is widely accepted and appreciated. A general guideline: $1–$2 per drink at the bar, $2–$5 per day for housekeeping, $5–$10 for bellhops, and 15–20% for exceptional service at specialty restaurants. On cruises, gratuities are typically added automatically to your onboard account.

Register with the U.S. Embassy (STEP)

The Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) is a free service provided by the U.S. Department of State that allows U.S. citizens traveling or living abroad to register their trip with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate.

Enrolling in STEP allows the Embassy to contact you in an emergency — whether it’s a natural disaster, civil unrest, or a family emergency back home. It also makes it easier for friends and family to reach you in a crisis. Registration takes only a few minutes and is strongly recommended for all international travel, especially to destinations with elevated travel advisories.

Enroll in STEP

Dress Code & Resort Attire

Many resorts, restaurants, and cultural sites have dress codes that must be followed. Upscale resort restaurants often require resort casual or formal attire for dinner — shorts, tank tops, and flip flops may not be permitted in dining rooms. Religious and cultural sites frequently require covered shoulders and knees.

Check your resort’s specific dress code requirements before packing. All-inclusive resorts in the Caribbean and Mexico commonly require guests to wear cover-ups over swimwear when entering restaurants and common areas. Packing a few nicer outfits ensures you won’t be turned away from a special dinner or excursion.

Notify Your Bank & Phone Carrier

Before you leave, notify your bank and credit card companies that you will be traveling internationally. Without a travel notice, your bank may flag foreign transactions as fraud and freeze your card — leaving you without access to funds at your destination.

Contact your mobile carrier as well to set up an international plan or add a temporary international data and calling package. Without one, standard roaming charges can be extremely expensive — sometimes hundreds of dollars for a single trip. Alternatively, consider purchasing a local SIM card at your destination for affordable data access. Most modern unlocked smartphones support this option.

Currency & Exchange

Research the local currency of your destination before you travel. Not all destinations use the U.S. dollar, and exchange rates can vary significantly. We recommend notifying your bank and credit card companies of your travel dates and destinations to prevent fraud blocks on your accounts.

For the best exchange rates, use ATMs at your destination rather than airport currency exchange kiosks, which typically charge higher fees. Carry a small amount of local currency for tips, taxis, and small purchases upon arrival. Some all-inclusive resorts operate entirely in U.S. dollars, but it is always wise to have local currency on hand for off-resort excursions.

Check Current Exchange Rates

Airport Arrival Times

Arriving at the airport with enough time to check in, clear security, and reach your gate without stress is essential to starting your vacation on the right foot. For international flights, plan to arrive at least 3 hours before departure. For domestic flights, 2 hours is the standard recommendation.

If you have TSA PreCheck or Global Entry, security lines are typically faster — but still allow extra time during peak travel periods and holidays. Check your airline’s specific check-in deadlines, as many close check-in 45–60 minutes before departure and will not accept late passengers. Factor in parking, shuttle times, and any special assistance needs when planning your arrival.

Apply for TSA PreCheck

Resort Incidental Credit Card Holds

Most resorts place a credit card hold (also called an incidental hold or authorization) at check-in to cover potential charges such as room service, spa services, minibar items, or damages. This is not a charge — it is a temporary hold on your available credit.

Hold amounts vary by resort and can range from $50 to several hundred dollars per night. The hold is typically released within 3–10 business days after checkout, depending on your bank. We recommend bringing a credit card with sufficient available credit specifically for this purpose, separate from the card you plan to use for daily spending. Debit card holds can tie up funds in your checking account for an extended period.

Electrical Outlets & Voltage

Different countries use different electrical outlet types and voltages. The United States uses 110–120V with Type A/B outlets. Many international destinations use 220–240V with different plug configurations. Using the wrong voltage without a converter can damage or destroy your electronics.

Before traveling internationally, check whether your devices are dual-voltage (look for ‘100–240V’ on the charger or device label — most modern phones, laptops, and cameras are). If not, you will need a voltage converter in addition to a plug adapter. Popular destinations like Mexico and the Caribbean typically use the same outlets as the U.S., but European, Asian, and African destinations often require adapters.

What Type of Money Should I Bring?

Major credit cards are widely accepted but some shops and restaurants require a minimum purchase amount. Consider bringing more than one card, as some outlets may not accept all types. Due to increasing credit card fraud worldwide, be prepared to show identification when making a transaction. When your card is being processed, do not let it out of your sight.

For the best available exchange rate, ATM cards are indispensable. The Plus and Cirrus logos are displayed at many ATM locations worldwide. Advise your bank that you will be traveling abroad and plan to use your card for shopping to avoid fraud blocks. Traveler’s checks are not recommended — they are increasingly difficult to use and exchange abroad.

Check Current Exchange Rates

Passport & Visa Requirements

Before you travel internationally, verify that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your return date — many countries enforce this rule strictly and will deny boarding or entry if your passport expires too soon. If your passport is expiring, renew it well in advance as processing times can be several weeks or longer.

Some destinations also require a visa in addition to a valid passport. Visa requirements vary by destination and U.S. citizenship status. Some visas must be obtained before departure; others are available on arrival or as an electronic travel authorization (eTA). Check the U.S. Department of State website for the specific entry requirements of your destination country well before your travel date.

Check Passport & Visa Requirements

If Something Goes Wrong

Even the best-planned vacations can encounter unexpected issues — a cancelled flight, a resort problem, a lost passport, or a medical emergency. Knowing who to call and what to do before you leave can make all the difference.

Your first call should always be to your Relaxing Vacations agent. We are your advocate and can help coordinate with airlines, resorts, and suppliers on your behalf. For medical emergencies abroad, contact your travel insurance provider immediately — most policies include a 24/7 emergency assistance hotline. If your passport is lost or stolen, contact the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate right away. Keep digital and physical copies of all travel documents, insurance cards, and emergency contact numbers stored separately from your originals.

Contact Relaxing Vacations

Leave Your Itinerary with Someone You Trust

Before you depart, share a complete copy of your travel itinerary with a trusted family member or friend who is staying home. This should include your flight numbers and departure/arrival times, hotel names, addresses, and phone numbers, any cruise ship names and port schedules, excursion details, and the contact information for your Relaxing Vacations agent.

If something unexpected happens — a missed flight, a medical emergency, or a natural disaster — your emergency contact will know exactly where you are supposed to be and who to call. Also share copies of your passport, travel insurance policy, and any important documents with this person so they can assist remotely if needed. A quick check-in text or call at each destination is a simple habit that gives both you and your loved ones peace of mind throughout the trip.

Use a VPN When Traveling

Public Wi-Fi at airports, hotels, resorts, and cafés is convenient — but it is also one of the most common ways travelers get their personal information stolen. Hackers can intercept data on unsecured networks, putting your passwords, banking information, and email at risk. A Virtual Private Network (VPN) encrypts your internet connection and keeps your data private, even on public Wi-Fi.

We recommend downloading and setting up a reputable VPN app on your phone, tablet, and laptop before you leave home. Enable it any time you connect to a public or hotel Wi-Fi network. A VPN is also useful for accessing streaming services from home (like Netflix or Hulu) that may be geo-restricted at your destination. Popular options include NordVPN, ExpressVPN, and Surfshark — most offer affordable monthly or annual plans. Some countries restrict or block VPN usage, so check the regulations for your specific destination before relying on one.

Cruise Ship Prohibited Items

Cruise lines maintain strict lists of items that are not permitted onboard. Bringing a prohibited item can result in it being confiscated at the pier, and in some cases may delay your embarkation or result in being denied boarding. Knowing what’s not allowed before you pack can save you a lot of frustration on embarkation day.

Items commonly prohibited on cruise ships include: clothing irons and steamers (most ships provide these or offer laundry services), candles and incense, extension cords and multi-plug adapters without surge protection, outside alcohol beyond the line’s allowed limit (typically one bottle of wine per adult at embarkation), illegal drugs, firearms and weapons, and hoverboards or electric scooters. Some lines also prohibit drones, certain foods, and large quantities of non-alcoholic beverages. Prohibited items vary by cruise line — always check your specific line’s policy before packing. Your Relaxing Vacations agent can help you find the right information for your sailing.

Cruise Required Travel Documents

Cruise travel has specific documentation requirements that differ from standard air travel. What you need depends on your itinerary — a closed-loop cruise departing and returning to the same U.S. port has different requirements than an open-jaw or international itinerary.

For closed-loop cruises (departing and returning to the same U.S. port), U.S. citizens may be able to travel with a government-issued photo ID and an original birth certificate — however, a valid passport is always strongly recommended and required if you need to fly home unexpectedly from a foreign port. For any cruise that begins or ends in a foreign country, a valid passport is required. Some destinations also require a visa in addition to a passport. All guests — including children — must have their own travel documents. Minors traveling without both parents may need a notarized consent letter. Cruise lines also require a completed online check-in and health questionnaire before embarkation. Arrive at the pier with all documents printed or accessible on your phone, as pier staff will verify them before you board.

Shore Excursions — Booking Through the Ship vs. Independently

One of the most common questions cruise travelers have is whether to book shore excursions through the cruise line or independently. Both options have real advantages — and real trade-offs — and the right choice depends on your destination, comfort level, and travel style.

Booking through the cruise line offers one major guarantee: if your ship-sponsored excursion runs late, the ship will wait for you. That peace of mind is significant, especially in ports with limited transportation options or tight turnaround times. Ship-sponsored tours are also vetted by the cruise line and typically include transportation from the pier. Independent tours and local operators often offer smaller group sizes, more personalized experiences, and lower prices — sometimes significantly so. However, if an independent tour runs long and you miss the ship’s departure, you are responsible for getting to the next port at your own expense. This risk is manageable with careful planning: choose reputable operators, confirm return times well before the ship’s all-aboard time, and always build in a buffer. Your Relaxing Vacations agent can recommend trusted excursion providers and help you weigh the options for each port on your itinerary.

What to Expect on Embarkation Day

Embarkation day is one of the most exciting — and potentially most chaotic — days of your cruise. Knowing what to expect before you arrive at the pier will help you start your vacation relaxed and stress-free.

Arrive during your assigned boarding window, not before. Most cruise lines assign embarkation time slots during online check-in — arriving too early means waiting in a crowded terminal with no benefit. Bring your boarding documents, passport or ID, and credit card for your onboard account to the pier; do not pack them in your checked luggage. Your checked bags will be collected by porters at the pier and delivered to your cabin — but not right away. Bags typically arrive 2–4 hours after you board, sometimes not until late afternoon. Pack a carry-on with everything you’ll need for the first few hours: swimsuit, sunscreen, medications, a change of clothes, and any valuables. Once onboard, your cabin may not be ready until 1:00–2:00 PM. Head to the buffet or pool deck to enjoy lunch and explore the ship while you wait. Shortly after departure, all guests are required to attend a muster drill (safety briefing) — this is mandatory and enforced. Many lines now allow you to complete part of the drill digitally through the cruise app before you sail. Tip: Book your specialty restaurant reservations, spa appointments, and shore excursions as soon as you board — popular time slots fill up fast on the first day.

Port Days vs. Sea Days — What to Expect

One of the most exciting parts of a cruise is the variety of experiences packed into a single trip. Understanding the difference between port days and sea days helps you plan your time wisely and make the most of every moment on board and ashore.

Port Days: On a port day, your ship docks at or tenders to a destination, and you have a set window of time to explore — typically 6 to 10 hours. You can book shore excursions through the cruise line, arrange independent tours, or explore on your own. One critical rule: if you book independently and miss the ship’s departure, the ship will leave without you. You are then responsible for catching up to the ship at the next port at your own expense. Cruise line–booked excursions are guaranteed to return on time; independent arrangements are not. Sea Days: Sea days are spent entirely on the ship as it travels between destinations. These are ideal for relaxing by the pool, trying onboard activities, dining at specialty restaurants, attending shows and entertainment, visiting the spa, or simply unwinding. Sea days tend to be the most social days on a cruise and are a great time to explore parts of the ship you haven’t seen yet. Pacing Yourself: Many first-time cruisers try to pack every port day with activities and arrive back exhausted. Consider mixing active excursion days with slower, exploratory port days. Not every port requires a full itinerary — sometimes a walk through a local market or a beach afternoon is the perfect choice. Private Islands: Some cruise lines — including Disney, Royal Caribbean, and Norwegian — have private island destinations. These are technically port days but feel more like sea days, with exclusive beach access, food, and activities all included or available for purchase.

Staying Connected — Wi-Fi, Roaming & Cruise Internet

Staying connected while traveling — whether on a cruise ship, at a resort, or exploring a foreign city — requires a little planning before you leave home. Unexpected roaming charges and slow shipboard internet are two of the most common surprises travelers face.

International Roaming: Before you travel internationally, contact your cell carrier to understand your plan’s roaming rates. Most major U.S. carriers (AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile) offer international day passes or travel add-ons that provide data, calls, and texts at a flat daily rate. Without a plan, roaming charges can reach hundreds of dollars in a single day. T-Mobile Magenta and above plans include free international data in many countries, though speeds may be reduced. Cruise Ship Internet: Cruise ships offer Wi-Fi packages that must be purchased separately from your fare. Speeds vary significantly by ship and location at sea. Most modern ships offer tiered packages — a basic social media plan, a standard browsing plan, and a premium streaming plan. Prices typically range from $15 to $35 per day depending on the line and package. Disney Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, and Norwegian all offer pre-cruise discounts if you purchase your package before boarding. Carnival’s HUB app allows messaging between guests onboard for free without a Wi-Fi package. At Resorts: Most all-inclusive resorts include Wi-Fi in the room and common areas, though speeds can be inconsistent. If you need reliable connectivity for work, ask your Relaxing Vacations agent about resorts known for strong Wi-Fi infrastructure. Offline Preparation: Download maps (Google Maps offline), entertainment (Netflix, Spotify), and important documents (boarding passes, reservation confirmations, travel insurance) before you leave home. This ensures you have access to critical information even without a connection.

TSA Information

Note: TSA rules may change without notice based on world events and security concerns. For the most up-to-date TSA rules, visit www.TSA.gov. www.TSA.gov

Security Screening

TSA incorporates unpredictable security measures, both seen and unseen, to accomplish their transportation security mission. Security measures begin long before you arrive at the airport. TSA works closely with the intelligence and law enforcement communities to share information and adjusts processes and procedures to meet the evolving threat.

Checked Baggage Screening

TSA screens approximately 1.4 million checked bags for explosives and other dangerous items daily. The majority of checked baggage is screened without the need for a physical bag search. If your property is physically inspected, TSA will place a notice of baggage inspection inside your bag. TSA-approved locks (Safe Skies or Travel Sentry branded) may be used so bags are not cut open during inspection.

Carry-on Baggage & the 3-1-1 Rule

TSA screens approximately 4.9 million carry-on bags daily. Remove personal electronic devices larger than a cell phone (laptops, tablets, e-readers, handheld game consoles) from your carry-on and place them in a bin for X-ray screening.

The 3-1-1 liquids rule allows you to bring one quart-sized baggie of liquids, aerosols, gels, creams and pastes in your carry-on bag. These are limited to travel-sized containers that are 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less per item. Pack items in containers larger than 3.4 oz in checked baggage.

Check What You Can Bring

Permitted & Prohibited Items

Knowing what you can and cannot bring through security — in your carry-on and in checked baggage — can save you time, prevent confiscation of valuable items, and help you avoid delays at the checkpoint. TSA maintains a comprehensive, searchable “What Can I Bring?” database covering hundreds of items.

Common items that are prohibited in carry-on bags include firearms and ammunition (allowed in checked baggage with proper declaration), sharp objects such as knives and scissors with blades longer than 4 inches, flammable liquids and gels, and certain sporting equipment. Items like snow globes, gel shoe inserts, and oversized lithium batteries are frequently confiscated because travelers are unaware of the rules. When in doubt, pack it in your checked bag or leave it at home. TSA’s “What Can I Bring?” tool lets you search any item by name for instant guidance.

TSA — What Can I Bring?

Disabilities & Medical Conditions

TSA is committed to providing dignified, respectful security screening for all travelers, including those with disabilities, medical conditions, prosthetics, implanted devices, or other special circumstances. You are not required to disclose a medical condition, but notifying the TSA officer in advance can help make the screening process smoother.

Travelers with pacemakers, insulin pumps, cochlear implants, metal implants, ostomy pouches, or other medical devices may request a private screening at any time. Mobility aids such as wheelchairs, walkers, crutches, and canes are permitted and will be screened. Medically necessary liquids, gels, and ice packs exceeding 3.4 oz are allowed in carry-on bags and are exempt from the 3-1-1 rule — declare them to the officer at the checkpoint. TSA Cares is a dedicated helpline available at (855) 787-2227 to assist travelers with disabilities or medical conditions before their travel date.

TSA — Disabilities & Medical Conditions

What You Can Carry On

Knowing what’s allowed in your carry-on before you reach the checkpoint saves time, prevents confiscation, and keeps the line moving. TSA’s “What Can I Bring?” tool lets you search any item by name for instant guidance.

Generally ALLOWED in carry-on bags: laptops and electronics (remove from bag for screening), medications and medical devices, snacks and non-liquid food, books and magazines, small scissors (blades under 4 inches), disposable razors, and portable chargers/power banks (must be in carry-on, NOT checked). Generally NOT ALLOWED in carry-on bags: firearms and ammunition (must be declared and checked), knives with blades over 4 inches, flammable liquids, aerosols over 3.4 oz, baseball bats and sporting equipment, and tools over 7 inches. Snow globes, gel shoe inserts, and oversized lithium batteries are frequently confiscated because travelers don’t realize they’re restricted. Liquids Rule (3-1-1): Containers must be 3.4 oz (100ml) or less, all fitting in one quart-sized clear zip-top bag, one bag per passenger. Medically necessary liquids are exempt — declare them at the checkpoint. When in doubt, pack it in your checked bag or leave it at home.

TSA What Can I Bring?

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