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Packing and planning for a cruise can be the most stressful part of your vacation. As someone who has cruised and traveled extensively, I’m slowly becoming a (self-proclaimed) packing pro - and my latest cruise put those skills to the test.

I’ve taken weeklong cruises with just a carry-on and it’s honestly something I’ve never regretted. In fact, it's pretty rare for me to travel with checked luggage for a cruise. Less luggage to haul around simplifies my cruising experience immensely.

Amidst all the excitement of embarkation day, you will have to complete the required safety drill. Do not worry, though. It must be done before sail away, so you will still be able to sip on a drink while watching the shore disappear into the horizon. 

While emergencies at sea are rare, the safety, or muster, drill is meant to familiarize you and your travel party with your assigned assembly station and other protocols. It is mandatory for all passengers, even those who have cruised before, as the assigned location will most likely be different on each sailing. 

Outside of your base cruise fare, there are certain add-ons that you can opt to purchase to enhance your cruising experience. 

You do not need to book spa treatments, once-in-a-lifetime shore excursions, specialty restaurants, or internet packages to have a great cruise. In fact, cruises are some of the most budget-friendly vacations if you elect to utilize everything that is included in your initial fare. 

Room service is a staple to many vacationers. It is your time off, why shouldn't you enjoy breakfast in bed (or better yet, on your private balcony!) before a busy day spent ashore or running around the ship? 

Have you ever had a great travel idea that turned out to be more disastrous than you could have imagined?

A few months ago, I was searching for cheap spring break cruises when I stumbled upon a 2-night sailing from Malaga, Spain to Lisbon, Portugal on Norwegian Sun. The itinerary included one stop in Cadiz, Spain - and best of all, it was priced at just $99 per person.

Have you ever wondered what it is like to work on a cruise ship? Thanks to social media, we are able to get a more in-depth look at what being a crew member onboard a cruise ship is really like. 

Have you ever wondered what cruising will be like in 70 years? On March 29, the MEYER Group released a cruise ship concept for what they believe the future of the industry could look like in the year 2100. 

The MEYER Group is an international consortium that has three shipyards located in Papenburg and Rostock, Germany, as well as Turku, Finland. 

If your upcoming cruise itinerary includes a stop at a cruise line private island or destination, you have probably noticed that many have cabanas that you can rent for the day. While the type of cabana and included amenities vary, you can expect each to provide a reserved area just for you and your travel companions. 

Cruise anticipation is one of the greatest feelings ever, and there is no greater feeling than when the cruise countdown officially hits single digits and the embarkation jitters intensify. 

Like with any vacation, cruising offers you the ability to completely check out of reality. Regardless of whether the trip is 3-nights oe 14-nights, you can rest assured knowing that you will be taken care of by the hardworking crew members and come back with some incredible memories!

Here are the top 15 things that I can't wait to do on every cruise ship!