Packing for a cruise to Alaska is a little different than packing for the Caribbean. Weather can change quickly, rain is common, and glacier viewing days can be surprisingly cold — even in the middle of summer.

If your cruise stops in Mexico (Cozumel, Costa Maya, Cabo, etc.), be aware that Mexico now has a nationwide vape ban in effect. The law went into effect on January 16, 2026.

If you’re new to cruising, you may have heard about Elegant Night and wondered what it’s all about. It’s a special evening where guests can dress up a little more than usual 👗 and enjoy a festive night on the ship. Some go all out with glamorous outfits, while others keep it simple but polished. Either way, it’s a fun night to celebrate, take photos 📸, and make memories on board!

If you’re a coffee lover sailing with Carnival, you’re not limited to basic drip coffee. There are several ways to get specialty coffee onboard.

How Much Should You TIP the Luggage Porters at the Cruise Terminal?

If you’re cruising out of Port Canaveral and want to add Universal Orlando before or after your sailing, it’s a fun (and doable!) combo.

If you’re in a forward cabin, you might hear loud, repetitive thuds at night — that’s a bow slam! Basically, the front of the ship hits waves over and over, like bowling balls bouncing off your cabin wall.

Whether you’re flying or driving to your cruise port, arriving the day before embarkation can help prevent unexpected travel issues. Flight delays, cancellations, traffic, or road closures can happen at any time, and getting to the port city early provides a valuable buffer.

Think you’re tired after a day of sun, drinks, and excursions? Try getting a good night’s sleep on a cruise! Between the rocking ship, less-than-cozy beds, and hallway chaos, even the best sleeper can struggle (my husband is a member of the "I can't sleep on a cruise" club).

One of the first things to check before leaving home is your ID. If you’re flying within the U.S., you’ll need a REAL ID-compliant driver’s license or another accepted form of ID, like a passport.

Curious about whether Pearl Cove at Celebration Key is worth the extra cost? Here’s a breakdown + honest thoughts

What is the Carnival FunTimes? It is the daily guide to ship activities. Delivered to staterooms each evening, the FunTimes (also available on the Carnival HUB App) details the next day's schedule. This includes dining hours, venue locations, and the entertainment lineup. The newsletter also provides information on port arrivals, departures, special offers, and other details.

All About the Carnival HUB App: Must-Know Tips for First-Time Cruisers

Is Carnival's Faster to the Fun (FTTF) worth the hype, or is it just another way to lighten your wallet? We're diving into whether you should snag this perk or stick to the regular boarding chaos.

Packing for a cruise can feel like a big undertaking, the trick is to think about your specific cruise itinerary, the activities you plan to enjoy, and your personal comfort needs.

Hotels are plentiful, with some even within walking distance to some terminals or offering shuttles for a nominal fee.

If you value convenience and a shorter commute after a long flight, an airport hotel near MCO is a good option. If you prefer a more relaxed atmosphere and proximity to the port for a leisurely embarkation, then staying near Port Canaveral may be a better choice.

Instead of rushing from the Orlando (MCO) airport to your Port Canaveral cruise, be a savvy cruiser and enjoy a pre-cruise stay near the airport! Why not transform travel day stress into pure vacation vibes? Think of it as hitting the "easy" button before you set sail. Instead of battling traffic to Port Canaveral, you can relax, raid the hotel breakfast buffet, and maybe even take a dip in the pool.

Setting sail on the Carnival Mardi Gras, Glory, or Venezia from Port Canaveral and looking for a pre-cruise stay that’s a breeze? 🛳️ 💨 There's good news! There are a couple of hotels within easy walking distance of Terminal 3. Imagine waking up, grabbing some breakfast, and strolling right to the ship! 🚶‍♀️🚶‍♂️

Cruises don't have to break the bank! Check out our latest post on my cruise essentials finds at Dollar Tree. From toiletries to fun accessories, we've got you covered!