Travel Tips
Travel, Accommodation, and More
Check back as this section changes regularly
Cruise Tips for Newbies
Some cruise companies will allow you to bring limited wine and sodas on the vessel when you embark. Example: Royal will allow (2) 750ml wine bottles and 12 soda cans to be brought onboard with your carry on items. Check with the company for their specific allowances.
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Do you need a passport to cruise?
Short answer is Yes & No.​
Depending on the type of cruise you are taking, a passport may no be required.
These types of cruises are usually known as "Closed-Loop" cruises. Simply put, if your cruise starts and ends in the same U.S. port (typically Western Hemisphere), a passport may not be required. Please reference the guidelines of the company for whom you are sailing with for the answer.
Example: Royal Caribbean & Celebrity often don't require passports for Closed-Loop itineraries. Virgin Voyages requires passports on all of its sailings.
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Airport Suggestions
Learn about your airport before you go!
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It is important to know the airport you are going to be leaving out of and arriving to.
Some things you should consider are:
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How big is the airport, and how busy does it get during normal hours?​
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What's the best way to get there?​
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Should I drive and park at the airport? If so, how much does it cost?
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Does the airport provide reliable shuttle service from parking, rental car lot, etc?
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Does the airport have an International & Domestic Terminal? If so, what's the best way to get from one to the other?
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How easy is it to get around the airport?
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Where is the ground transportation located? Does my hotel have shuttle service?
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What are the security hours for TSA Precheck & Clear?
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While going through security, what are the protocols for those who have TSA Precheck & Clear
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Travel Updates
REAL ID Act: By May 7, 2025, a REAL ID compliant driver's license or another acceptable form of identification will be required for domestic flights and access to certain federal facilities.
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Starting in 2026 American citizens traveling to most European Union countries must apply for an ETIAS authorization (European Travel Information and Authorization System). The new requirement ensures security while streamlining entry for short-term visits. If you are from a visa-exempt country, like Canada, the United States, or Australia, you will need a ETIAS travel authorization before entering 30 European countries for a short stay up to 90 days within any 180-day period.
Biometric passport control using facial recognition technology has been implemented at some airports and cruise ports to expedite customs and immigration.
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Southwest Airlines has implemented a new check baggage policy that charges for checked bags for most customers booked on reservations ticketed on or after May 28, 2025.