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With popular vacation spots such as Aspen, Colorado and Maui, Hawaii costing, on average, over $500 per person, per day, it’s no wonder that families are looking for more budget-friendly vacation options.

Amidst the excitement of exploring new ships and ports of call, it's easy to overlook potential mishaps. Having been on nearly two dozen cruises, you would think I would have learned how to avoid making rookie mistakes. That, however, couldn't be further from the truth. 

If you are packing for an upcoming cruise, whether it's your first or you're a seasoned sailor, it's important to pack the right items to make your voyage as comfortable as possible. 

While basics like clothing, toiletries, and valid travel documentation are essential, there are additional items that can enhance your onboard experience, especially when it comes to your cabin. 

Having been on nearly two dozen cruises, I've learned to always pack one essential item to enhance my cabin experience: a standard USB cord. 

Cruise ship cabins, although smaller than standard hotel rooms, try to pack as many essentials and conveniences into the limited space as possible; however, they typically fall short in the number of available charging options. Typically, standard outlets are exclusively found near the vanity, leaving those who prefer to charge their phones beside the bed at a disadvantage. 

Those preparing for an upcoming cruise shouldn't forget to buy one pre-cruise essential: luggage tag holders. 

Secure holders for your paper luggage tags ensure they don't accidentally get torn off when transported onboard. Plus, it'll streamline your embarkation process, as you won't have to spend time providing your cabin number to a porter for a handwritten tag. 

While those who play their cards right will find that cruising can be an affordable vacation, others may have a little extra cash to burn or want to set their upcoming cruise apart from previous sailings. 

Perhaps you're celebrating an anniversary or graduation and want to make your next cruise feel more lavish than before. Thankfully, you can customize your vacation to meet your elevated desires. There's nothing quite like waking up in a large suite or being greeted at the airport by a private driver. 

Although the main purpose of going on vacation is to escape the routine of daily life, you must remember the importance of practicing common courtesy while on your cruise, as it will make the experience more enjoyable for everyone. 

Cruise lines have rules in place to foster a positive and safe environment for both passengers and crew members. Some rules, such as designated smoking areas, are clearly defined, whereas others may be more implicit. 

If you're on a fitness journey or simply don't want to return home from your next cruise feeling overly bloated, there are some things you can do to make your indulgent vacation a little healthier. 

As someone who cruises pretty frequently, I'm weary of going overboard on sweet treats and other snacks. While there's nothing wrong with enjoying all of the delicious food on the ship, it's important to remember that moderation is key. Moreover, consuming too many alcoholic beverages or sugar mocktails certainly won't help you stay in any kind of calorie deficit. 

One Norwegian cruise ship is quarantined off the coast of Africa as the vessel is currently being tested for a potential outbreak of cholera, which is a bacterial disease typically caused by contaminated water.