Multiple cruise ships travelling around a bay

Planning for a cruise

Travel tips and advice to help you prepare for your cruise

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Plan, prepare and pack for your cruise

We’ve learned a lot from our cruise partners, so we’ve put together our best advice and tips to help you get ready for your cruise, wherever you’re headed.

From travel alerts and insurance options to what to pack, bring and wear on your ocean or river cruise.

Essentials to prepare for your cruise

Travel alerts

Check travel status of countries you’re visiting before your trip. Remember, RACV Travel Insurance won't cover you for destinations with ‘Do Not Travel’ status.

Passports and visas

  • Passport must be valid for 6 months after your scheduled return date.
  • You must get a visa or approval to visit all ports, even if you don’t plan to step ashore.

Find the perfect cruise adventure for you

What to bring on your cruise

Storage

  • Packed carry-on bags (holding everything needed for your first day)
  • Toiletry and clothes organisers
  • Zip-lock bags to minimise leaks

Accessories

  • Camera with extra batteries and memory cards
  • Chargeable phone batteries
  • A closed coffee mug for hot drinks
  • Binoculars to see wildlife and sights
  • International electrical adapter

Personal items

  • Passport and visa (if needed)
  • Sun protection 
  • Sea-sickness and prescription medication
  • A doctor’s letter stating the medication you’re on
  • Ear plugs

River cruises

  • Reliable backpack
  • Passport holder
  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • Local currency (or your credit card)
  • Easy-to-carry bag for carrying and presenting your passport and documentation at each port

Tropical cruises

  • Sun protection 
  • Breezy daywear
  • Poncho or rain coat
  • Insect repellent
  • A light jumper for cooler nights, strong winds or storms

Winter cruises

  • A warm and water-resistant coat
  • Many layers of clothing
  • Smartphone-sensitive gloves
  • Comfortable, enclosed footwear
  • Sun screen and sunglasses for those glary, snow-white sights

What to wear on your cruise

Day-to-day clothes

Get comfortable by dressing in casual wear:

  • t-shirts and shorts
  • light pyjamas
  • exercise clothes
  • bathing suits
  • shoes or sandals with a good grip (preferably a rubber sole)

On-shore excursions and activities

Prepare for activities or excursions with:

  • hiking boots (store in a plastic bag)
  • protective, enclosed footwear
  • active wear
  • clothes comfortable to walk in

Formal nights

Many cruise liners host elegant balls and performances, often with dress codes.

  • Formal event or performance: Tuxedo or dark suit and tie, or an evening dress
  • Smart-casual bars or dining: Suit jacket and tie, or a cocktail dress

Check your cruise liner's individual dress codes. 

The information provided is general advice only. Before making any decisions please consider your own circumstances and the Product Disclosure Statement and Target Market Determinations. For copies, visit racv.com.au. RACV Travel Insurance issued by Tokio Marine & Nichido Fire Insurance Co., Ltd ABN 80 000 438 291 AFSL 246 548. Terms & conditions apply, refer to the PDS. Royal Automobile Club of Victoria (RACV) Ltd AR 001243563 is an authorised representative of the issuer and receives commission for each policy sold or renewed.