05/26/2026
Tiny Tourist Tuesday: Cruising with Kids
Cruises make AMAZING family vacations! Between nonstop activities, family entertainment, included dining, and kids clubs, cruising can honestly be one of the best vacation values for families. Here are a few tried-and-true tips for cruising with the tiniest tourists:
1. Register for the Kids Programs Early
Even the littlest cruisers often have baby/toddler playtime with parents! My kids have been cruising since they were 5 months old, and we’ve always loved taking advantage of the activities. As they’ve gotten older, THEY love the kids clubs… and WE love a little grown-up time every now and then too. 😂
2. Let Them Run Midship in the Morning
Early in the morning, head to one of the midship decks before restaurants and bars open. It’s usually quiet and mostly empty which is the PERFECT place to let little ones run out some energy.
3. Bring a Small Bottle Cleaning Station
A small bottle of dish soap, a compact brush, and a mesh drying bag make life SO much easier for bottles and sippy cups. Once everything is washed, toss it in the mesh bag to dry and hang it from a magnetic hook near the sink.
4. Cruise Lines Provide More Baby Gear Than You Think
Most cruise lines can provide:
• cribs/pack & plays
• high chairs
• booster seats
• diaper pails
• even fresh baby food with advance notice
Take advantage of it! I usually still bring my little one’s crib sheet and blankets because of sensitive skin and allergies.
5. Don’t Forget a Portable Sound Machine
Sleeping in a new place can be hard for little travelers. A small sound machine can make bedtime MUCH smoother for everyone.
6. Gallon Zip Bags = Packing MAGIC
When my kids were little, I packed each full outfit in a gallon-size zip bag, everything from socks to bows. It made getting dressed SO much easier, and as they got older, they could grab a bag and dress themselves independently.
7. My #1 Kid Travel Item: A Pop-Up Hamper
This seems SO simple, but it makes a huge difference. Each child gets their own hamper so dirty clothes stay contained, cabins stay organized, and when it’s time to pack up, I know exactly where everything is. These pack completely flat in our suitcase!
Traveling with kids isn’t always perfectly relaxing… but watching them experience the world is absolutely worth it.
