Cruise superfans share 10 common mistakes they see passengers make

Monica HumphriesJul 20, 2021, 23:54 IST

Cruise superfans told the author (left) what mistakes to avoid on a cruise.Monica Humphries/Insider/AndreyPopov/Getty Images/PRImageFactory/Getty Images

Insider spoke to more than 25 experienced cruisers who were on Carnival Cruise Line's first ship out of the US since 2020.
The avid cruisers shared common mistakes they see passengers make onboard the ships.
From forgetting cash to buying Wi-Fi, here are the mistakes cruisers should avoid.

Whether it's your first cruise or your hundredth, you're bound to make a few mistakes. Luckily, there's a handful of mistakes you can avoid with a little bit of knowledge and planning.

The Carnival Vista docked in Cozumel, Mexico. Monica Humphries/Insider

Whether it's your first cruise or your hundredth, you're bound to make a few mistakes. Luckily, there's a handful of mistakes you can avoid with a little bit of knowledge and planning.

Overpacking was one of the most common mistakes experienced cruises mentioned when speaking with Insider.

One cruise superfan suggested packing liquid detergent instead of extra clothes. (Carnival Vista ship not pictured.) PRImageFactory/Getty Images

Some passengers make the mistake of thinking that automatic gratuities are enough.

A towel animal created by the author's stateroom attendant, Komang, onboard the Carnival Vista. Monica Humphries/Insider

Other cruise superfans admitted to not exploring and trying new eateries on the ship.

The author spent the week eating at all the eateries on the Carnival Vista. Monica Humphries/Insider

Similarly, some passengers don't realize they can eat in the dining room.

The author in Carnival Vista's largest dining room. Monica Humphries/Insider

Another common mistake is forgetting to bring cash and small bills.

Bring $5s, $10s, and $1 bills for tipping. AndreyPopov/Getty Images

Don't hesitate to order more than one thing at dinner.

The author's pictures of entrées on the Carnival Vista. Monica Humphries/Insider

Don't assume you won't get seasick.

The author's photo of a ferry from the Carnival Vista docking in Belize. Monica Humphries/Insider

Don't overwhelm yourself by overpacking your schedule.

The cruise is jam-packed with events, and it's impossible to go to every single one. Monica Humphries/Insider

Don't buy Wi-Fi - it likely won't work very well. Plus, a huge benefit of cruising is disconnecting.

Superfans told Insider to stop wasting time trying to connect to the internet. Carnival Cruises/Monica Humphries/Insider

Don't think you won't spend any additional money.

You can quickly spend money at all the shops on the cruise ship. Monica Humphries/Insider

Finally, some cruise superfans said they've seen people make the mistake of not knowing what to wear on a formal night.

Cruise passengers (not on the Carnival Vista in July) descend a grand stairwell in formal attire during an evening at sea. Ally Lee/Shutterstock

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Cruise superfans share 10 common mistakes they see passengers make

Whether it's your first cruise or your hundredth, you're bound to make a few mistakes. Luckily, there's a handful of mistakes you can avoid with a little bit of knowledge and planning.

Overpacking was one of the most common mistakes experienced cruises mentioned when speaking with Insider.

Some passengers make the mistake of thinking that automatic gratuities are enough.

Other cruise superfans admitted to not exploring and trying new eateries on the ship.

Similarly, some passengers don't realize they can eat in the dining room.

Another common mistake is forgetting to bring cash and small bills.

Don't hesitate to order more than one thing at dinner.

Don't assume you won't get seasick.

Don't overwhelm yourself by overpacking your schedule.

Don't buy Wi-Fi - it likely won't work very well. Plus, a huge benefit of cruising is disconnecting.

Don't think you won't spend any additional money.

Finally, some cruise superfans said they've seen people make the mistake of not knowing what to wear on a formal night.