Going on a cruise is a popular activity, as it provides guests with on-board amenities and entertainment, views of the ocean and stops at ports, as well. However, just as with any trip, there is a lot of planning and prep work that must go into a cruise, before the ship actually sets sail. And if anyone out there is a first-time cruiser, there are certainly some mistakes that are commonly made in the beginning yet that can be avoided, as well.

That being said, the list below goes over the details of these mishaps and bumps in the road. It discusses how to make sure they do not happen. And it gives helpful hints on how to make any cruise as pleasing as possible.

17 Before: Not Booking In Advance

Whether someone is booking a flight, getting tickets to a play, scheduling an appointment or getting ready to go on a cruise, doing so beforehand is the way to go.

It secures a spot, with plenty of time to spare, and it is usually more affordable than trying to book it days before.

16 Before: Not Planning Well Enough

After the tickets are purchased, there is still planning to do. How will we get there? Where will we park? How much should we pack? What will we do at the different stops? Who will watch the pets while we are away? And did we buy enough sunscreen/Will we remember to put it on regularly?

15 Before: Not Packing Enough… Or A Carry-On Bag

Speaking of packing… It is better to have too many clothes than not enough. Obviously, swimsuits will be needed. Lots of lounging and hanging out will take place. There will be times to dress in a cuter and cool way, such as when ports are reached. There are also fancier shows and restaurants, which may even require formalwear.

14 Food & Drinks: Only Eating At The Buffet

The all-you-can-eat buffet is a big appeal on the cruise ship, but there are so many other options. Really, any food that can be imagined is probably available! Plus, there is the formal dining room, which is quite the experience, so be sure to head there one at least one evening.

13 Food & Drinks: Forgetting All-Inclusive Rules

Even though cruises are usually all-inclusive, there will be rules and stipulations. For instance, take into consideration alcoholic beverages or specialty coffees, which will probably not fall into this category and which will probably have to be bought extra, every single time. Budgeting is important, especially on trips like these!

12 Food & Drinks: Trying To Sneak In A Lot Of Alcohol

Some people try to avoid spending too much on alcohol by bringing their own. Make sure to read and re-read the regulations here, in order to not bring too much or too big of a bottle.

Additionally, many cruisers enjoy buying alcohol at ports, especially if it is duty-free. Know that these bottles will be held on the ship until the end of the trip, though.

11 Food & Drinks: Getting A Stomach Ache From Too Many Guy Fieri Burgers

Some cruise lines offer up Guy Fieri burgers, and a mistake would be to eat too many in a short amount of time. Don’t mess up the trip with a stomach ache! Yes, there is so much goodness to consume on the ship, but pacing is key. There is time for it all… Just wait.

10 Communication: Thinking An On-Board App Isn’t Worth It

There may not be service on phones while out at sea, but there may be an on-board app. And it may come with a chat-like feature, allowing friends and family members to stay in touch. We are used to being able to text when we are ready to leave, where we are and so on… and an app can take the place of this convenience.

9 Communication: Skipping A Call To A Cell Phone Carrier Beforehand

Similarly, everyone should get in touch with their cell phone carriers before leaving.

First, they need to notify the company that traveling is happening, to avoid any issues. Secondly, they may want to purchase a special plan, which would allow texting and calling to still happen on the ship.

8 Communication: Opting To Buy The Internet Package While On The Ship

Another note on communication has to do with the internet. Many are too busy to be on their phones, but some people may have to work, while others may enjoy social media. There are wi-fi plans, and these should be bought ahead of time, rather than on the ship.

7 Ports: Attempting To Squeeze Everything Into One Stop

Usually, there are just a couple of stops, onto land, during a cruise. These places feature tons of different activities and attractions, and it can be overwhelming to decide on what to do. Research the options, weigh out the pros/cons, and use time wisely.

6 Ports: Only Considering The Cruise’s Excursions

Cruises will suggest excursions that can be done at port stops, but there is more to do than just what they offer.

These are tourist-filled cities that have their own cultures, restaurants and attractions, so do some research to make the most of each stop.

5 Ports: Leaving IDs Behind

Identification cards are vital to have with us at all times… including while on a cruise. For instance, an age may have to be proved, and a ship ID card may allow access onto the boat. Don’t forget anything and get left behind or get left out of certain entertainment!

4 Ports: Ignoring The Time

While at ports, there will be strict times to return to the ship, in order to head out again on time. These are not suggestions and should not be taken lightly.

They will leave at a certain time, period, and finding an alternate route home does not sound ideal.

3 Logistics: Missing The Official Safety Talk

Here are some final notes: On the first day, there will be a safety talk, and this is something else that should not be taken lightly. Attend this meeting, listen carefully, and make sure groups (especially the younger members in groups) understand what to do in case of an emergency.

2 Logistics: Wanting To Do Everything The First Day

Just as it will be hard to not want to eat everything in sight, all at once, it will also be hard to save activities. But it is a must! There will be several days spent out at sea, giving guests plenty of time to check out all the cruise line has to offer.

1 Logistics: Not Realizing How Small The Rooms Are

And here is a warning: The rooms on these ships are small. Thankfully, people don’t spend too much time in them. Just keep it in mind, when it comes to packing and to thinking about how to share a tiny space and tiny bathroom with others.