Airports are unpredictable places. The last thing you want is to be running to catch your plane. Recently, at Orlando International Airport, it took us 1.5 hours just to get through security.

• Ensure all liquids & gels are in 3 ounce or smaller containers.
• Place those containers in a clear quart-size Ziplock bag.
• Find out the maximum carry-on luggage size–it varies by airline.
• For current information, always visit TSA's website before flying.

Weather conditions & unpredictable mechanical issues can and do happen. It’s always a good idea to stay up-to-date on the status of your flight. Most airlines have apps that will send notifications directly to your phone.

While most major cruise lines are dropping Covid-19 vaccination requirements, there are special circumstances that may require vaccination. Additionally, Covid testing requirements are constantly changing. It is important that you familiarize yourself with your specific cruise line's protocols.

Gratuities are often NOT included in the price of your cruise fare. Expect to pay a specified amount per person, per day for services. You can usually prepay gratuities ahead of time, or they will be charged to your onboard account towards the end of your cruise. While additional gratuities are not required, cabin stewards and dining staff are always appreciative of extra tips for a job well done.

GTY (Guarantee) rates are usually the lowest priced rates. This is because your stateroom is selected by the cruise line within a week or two prior to sailing. When booking an inside stateroom you may get a small room with a cot or bunk beds. When booking an outside or balcony stateroom, you may end up with an obstructed view. The staterooms that are selected by the cruise line cannot be changed.

You are required to have a U.S. Passport Book when traveling by air to any international location. Passport Cards can be used to enter the U.S. at land border crossings and sea ports-of-entry between Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda. The passport card cannot be used for international travel by air. Some countries require that your passport be valid at least six months beyond the end-date of your trip. For current information visit the website below.

When traveling abroad, U.S. citizens may need a visa issued by the embassy of the country they wish to visit. When planning international travel, learn about visa requirements by country by visiting the U.S. Department of State’s Country Specific Travel Information.

The Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) is a free service to allow U.S. citizens and nationals traveling and living abroad to enroll their trip with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. It is highly recommended that you enroll yourself prior to traveling so that you receive important information from the U.S. Embassy.

In general, a third-party insurance company, such as Travel Insured International, offers more comprehensive coverage. They probably have a wider variety of covered cancellation reasons, and/or higher limits on things such as medical coverage or baggage loss. A cruise line policy will only cover the costs of your cruise and also usually provides some medical coverage. Third-party policies will cover all non-refundable elements of your trip.

Oftentimes, third-party insurance policies have optional and/or additional coverages that you may add on to your policy. Typically, a cruise line offers just one standard policy.

Most cruise line insurance polcies include "cancel for any reason" (CFAR) coverage. With this coverage the cruise line will usually refund about 75% of your cruise fare if you must cancel for a non-covered reason. These refunds are typically given in the form of a future cruise credit (FCC) that must be used within a specified timeframe. Third-party companies usually offer CFAR coverage for an additional cost, although this may get pricey. However, you will receive cash back, as opposed to a credit.