Are you planning a cruise and bringing your toddler or infant?
If you are planning a cruise with a baby or toddler, you likely have many questions. Your child depends on you to have everything they will need (and want) for their first cruise experience.
Some of your questions may include:
- What documentation is required for my toddler to cruise?
- What is the minimum age to cruise?
- Are kids under two free?
- Where does the baby/toddler sleep?
- Can I bring food for them?
- And so much more!
In this post, we will answer these questions and more, providing you with a checklist of recommended items to print and add to your planning folder.
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First, let’s cover the minimum age to cruise.
Most mainstream ocean cruise lines require a child to be at least six months of age prior to the first date of your sailing. Yes, it’s very specific. They are ineligible to sail if they hit their half-year mark two days into the tentatively scheduled cruise.
Always check with your individual cruise line. While this is the general rule, some river cruise lines require children to be at least 12 months old.
Are kids under two free?
No. In fact, in most cases, they pay the same as an adult. For example, if you are cruising alone with your child, you would each pay the same rate because you would be the first two (the only two) in a double occupancy cabin. Have you heard the expression “Souls on board”? It fits the cruise industry.
The exception, of course, is when your child is the 3rd or 4th person in a cabin that offers that capacity. In this case, the 3rd and/or 4th person in the same cabin are discounted after two full-price fares. This is the case with the popular “kids sail free promotion.” This promotion covers children under the age of 12 as a 3rd or 4th guest in the cabin.
What documentation do I need for my toddler to cruise?
My friends, invest in a passport! I know they take time and money, but it is worth it. I could write an entire post on why you need a passport to cruise. In this post, I will tell you it is the best way to keep your child safe. If there is any emergency on the ship or in any port, a passport can make all the difference in safely getting you and your child home.
Where does the baby/toddler sleep?
You can request a portable crib from the cruise line, which is usually the “pack-n-play” style. Bring your baby’s favorite blanket or stuffed animal from home. I would probably bring a sheet from home as well. Babies can be especially sensitive to different detergents, etc.
Can I bring food on board?
Yes! You can bring any sealed/packaged formula, snacks, breast milk, etc. Anything your child reasonably needs for their nutrition. There is plenty of food onboard, but many babies and toddlers have their favorite snacks or special milk/formula requirements.
A few items that might help at meal time.
Disposable bibs and placemats can be really helpful. I think this combo pack is perfect for travel!
Baby/toddler suitable utensils
Sealed, packaged snacks and formula are all welcome onboard. Be sure to pack them in your carry-on)
You can pack a sponge in a ziplock for cleaning utensils, bottles, etc. For years, I have used this trick of soaping a wet sponge, letting it dry and then cutting it into strips. I toss them in a ziploc and have a soapy sponge to wash water bottles, etc.
The Health of your baby/toddler during your cruise
Nothing is more important than the health and well-being of your child. While top-notch medical services are onboard, you’ll want to be prepared for your child’s more mundane and minor health needs. Having these items will save you the stress of finding age-appropriate items during your cruise and will certainly save your wallet.
- Thermometer
- Age-appropriate cold medicine and fever reducer/pain reliever
- First aid – bandages, ointment, reusable ice pack like this adorable boo-boo bunny.
Did you know that Children age 2-12 are more likely to experience symptoms of motion sickness, so plan accordingly. I bet this is difficult to diagnose in small children who may not be able to articulate just how they are feeling.
What Clothing Should I pack?
You may want to take a few family pictures or get your toddler dressed up for a formal night. Adorable! However, remember that a comfortable little one is a happier little one. Plan to pack items they are most comfortable wearing at home and whether appropriate. You’ll also want to pack a few extra items as babies (and adults) can experience spills and stains. Laundry service for a fee is available on most ships, while self-serve launderettes are becoming hard to find but are available on some ships. This is available on many older Carnival and Princess cruise line ships. Check the deck plan for your ship before sailing if you plan to do laundry.
Sink washing for little ones is also an option and something you’ve likely had to do at home periodically. These laundry sheets are great for travel.
Clothes Packing tricks for little ones.
Many people organize their little one’s clothing in specific packing cubes. Another great idea is to place each day’s outfit in a gallon storage bag and label it.
Can I bring a stroller on a cruise?
Sure! A lightweight/foldable stroller, like an umbrella stroller, is recommended since the stroller will need to be stored in your cruise cabin. An umbrella (or similar-sized stroller) could potentially slide under the bed or in the closet and out of the way when not in use.
You can bring any stroller you’d like. Remember that elevator (and cabin) space is limited, so it may become too cumbersome. The positive aspect of bringing a larger stroller is the storage capacity for everything a toddler needs.
I have seen a few cruisers try to store their giant stroller out in the hall, which is frowned upon for good reasons. First, you’d need to unload it fully each time, and second, it is an obstacle for other cruisers utilizing the hall.
Speaking of limited cabin space, let’s talk about cabin organization!
Staying organized will be KEY to managing your and your toddler’s items in a small space. The following list is some helpful items to help you keep your necessities right where you need them.
Room organization
A collapsible hamper can help keep your room tidy.
Over-the-door shoe organizer (held by magnets) – organize diapers, wipes, baby shampoo, etc.
Strong magnets – cruise cabin walls are metal, so having strong magnets allows you to utilize the vertical space. Pro tip: Place the magnet on the ceiling for a stronger hold if you have a particularly heavy item.
Diapers – Don’t want to carry an entire suitcase full of diapers? Check with your cruise line. Many cruise lines allow you to pre-purchase disposable diapers delivered to your cabin. While you might pay more for the diapers, it may be less than an extra baggage fee if you fly to your port.
More helpful items for cruising with babies and toddlers
Diaper disposal bags – Everyone in the cabin will appreciate this purchase!
Foldable toilet seats and/or oversized seat covers can be especially helpful for potty training toddlers. They help protect little ones from nasty germs.
Inflatable bathtub – Most cruise cabins only have a shower unless you are in a suite or sailing on Disney Cruise Line. A small inflatable bathtub will be essential for safely bathing your little one. Don’t forget the travel-friendly and easy-to-use auto air pump.
Clothes pins for bag clips can be helpful to block light from a balcony or window during naptime.
Entertaining a Toddler while on a Cruise
You’ll likely have some downtime, so pack some Entertainment. These items are easy to pack and can help entertain your toddler before/after a nap or while you are preparing for dinner.
Beach/Pool Time Tips for Cruising with a Toddler.
Beach and pool time may be a highlight of your cruise. Plan to pack a few items to help ensure a fun experience for everyone.
Sunscreen/rashguards – Protect your toddler’s delicate skin from sunburn.
Canopy – a packable canopy can provide needed shade near the pool or during beach time.
Water shoes – While adults might think of these for rocky beaches, they can be VERY important for little ones walking around on a hot pool deck or sand.
A sun hat with a strap is especially helpful, as cruise decks can be windy.
Life vests are available for use onboard.
Swim diapers – Swim diapers are allowed in the designated splash pad areas (and at the beach); however, children must be fully potty-trained to enter the main pool or spas. Swim diapers are not allowed in these areas.
In conclusion, planning a cruisewith toddlers can be a great!
I hope you’ve found this list helpful for your cruise planning. You can find your printable Cruising with Small Children pdf. list here.
A final note on planning. You can PLAN and have everything on this list prepared and ready to go for your trip. But the most important thing you must pack is your patience and flexibility. Plan your cruise activities according to your child’s energy level and temperament.
You will embark on a wonderful family vacation, but just like at home, remember the limitations (and possibilities) of life with your little one. Plan to take advantage of the onboard offerings and cruise port days while also including enough downtime for everyone to get enough rest. Overly tired adults can be a struggle, but tired toddlers can be a huge bummer for you AND your little one.
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