Travel Tips for Los Angeles and Long Beach Cruise
Whether it’s your first trip or your 100th, the point of your cruise is to have a fun and relaxing vacation, but unfortunately we all know how stressful traveling can be. And when your trip is entirely traveling, that can be extra stressful. Don’t let the stress get in the way of having a fantastic cruise though.
There’s always something that can help make your next cruise better. A great cruise starts with smart sailing. Our cruise tips are the best way to start your next trip.
Packing
Packing is perhaps the most important part of preparing for your cruise. Smart packing is an essential. Plan to re-wear clothing to maximize luggage space on your cruise. Save packing space by bringing tops or dresses that can be dressed up for dinner or re-worn casually. And remember, a spritz of travel-sized Febreze can be a lifesaver! Try to be smart about shoes as these typically take up the most space in your luggage. Limit yourself to three pairs: something active, fiip-flops, or something dressy.
A good tip is to also pack everything you need for your first day in your carry on. Make sure you have a change of clothes, swimsuit, prescriptions, and any other essentials on you.
And remember to bring pack things like sunscreen and medications for constipation/diarrhea, motion sickness, and allergies. It’s okay to be a walking pharmacy as these often cost about 10 times more in the cruise ship’s shop.
Take the Excursions
Be sure to check out all the excursions that the cruise lines offer. The group excursions provided by the ship are less expensive than private tours and are easier to go with. These tours are aware of time limitations and are designed for your cruise experience. Before you sign up for anything though, be sure to read the shore tour descriptions with a critical eye. Get a good idea of the time involved and how long you’ll be on a bus during on shore trips.
Remember to also bring a drawstring backpack on excursion for sunscreen, room keys, and souvenirs. They’re less bulky than regular backpacks and more secure than purses.
Check out the Daily Program
Your daily program is the most valuable resource on your trip. This is the best way to find out about changes in entertainment schedules, dining venues, theme parties, daytime activities, and special promotions and one-off events. It’s a good idea to bring a highlighter and a paper clip (you’ll end up with lots of papers) to best organize your daily schedule. Some cruises even have a cruise app to help you keep track of your schedule.
Don’t Over Tip
It’s very easy to lose track of spending on a cruise. Often the ship automatically charges a 15% gratuity on things like alcohol. Automatic gratuity for your stateroom attendant is built into your bill as well. When possible pay up front by pre-booking specialty restaurants, buying drink packages, and prepaying gratuities. This is a great way to keep track of how much you’re spending on your cruise.
Book Transportation
If you’re heading out to the your cruise, book a cruise shuttle to and from the cruise port. This is a great way to avoid driving and long term parking costs. A cruise shuttle is also a better alternative to public transportation. No one wants to lug two weeks worth of luggage from a train station or bus stop. Cruise shuttles can drop you right off at your port of call.
Xpress Shuttles offers cruise transportation and car services to San Pedro Cruise Terminal in LA, the Port of Long Beach, Dana Point Harbor, and more