What to take care of before setting sail for 100+ days around the world.
Planning for the Journey of a Lifetime
A world cruise is more than a vacation—it’s a global experience that spans 3–6 months at sea. While the idea of visiting dozens of countries in one seamless journey is exhilarating, it also requires thoughtful preparation on the home front.
From managing your finances to handling healthcare and your home, this guide will help walk you through everything to consider before boarding your world cruise.
1. Finances: Plan Ahead for Peace of Mind
Understand the Full Cost
Most luxury world cruises are all-inclusive—covering meals, excursions, flights, gratuities, and more. But be prepared for:
- Travel insurance (a must!)
- Pre/post-cruise hotel stays
- Optional private excursions or upgrades
- Spending money while exploring each key city
Notify Your Bank & Credit Cards
Let your providers know your travel dates and destinations to avoid fraud alerts or card blocks. Ask about foreign transaction fees and consider carrying a card that waives them. Be sure to bring more than one form of payment (credit card, debit card, cash) for situations where a credit card might not be accepted. And remember: cash is king- especially in smaller towns and local markets where it may be the only form of tender.
Automate Payments
Schedule automatic payments for:
- Mortgage or rent
- Utilities
- Credit cards and loans
- Subscriptions and memberships
You’ll want your financial life to run smoothly while you’re relaxing at sea.
Access Accounts Digitally
Set up online access and mobile banking for all your accounts, and consider giving a trusted person power of attorney or account access if needed.
2. Health: Be Proactive Before You Sail
Visit Your Doctor
Schedule a full check-up and discuss:
- Any prescription refills you’ll need for 3–6 months
- Travel vaccinations (some destinations require yellow fever or others)
- Managing chronic conditions while traveling
Bring copies of prescriptions and medical history, and confirm your travel insurance covers international care and medical evacuation.
Order Medications Early
Some cruise lines allow you to bring a 90- or 180-day supply. Work with your doctor and pharmacy to get what you need in advance.
Pack a Travel Medical Kit
Include:
- Motion sickness remedies
- Over-the-counter pain relief
- Antacids, allergy meds, and cold medicine
- Any personal health items you use regularly
3. Home Logistics: What Happens While You’re Away
Household Management
If you’re gone for 3+ months, you’ll need someone to:
- Check your mail (or have it forwarded)
- Monitor your home or security system
- Maintain your lawn or property
- Start your car or check on vehicles
Consider hiring a house sitter or asking a trusted neighbor or family member.
Pets and Plants
If you have pets or houseplants, make arrangements well in advance. A professional pet sitter or boarding service should be vetted and booked early.
Cancel or Pause Services
Review and pause:
- Newspaper or mail deliveries
- Housecleaning services
- Meal kit subscriptions
- Local memberships (gym, club, etc.)
This can save you money and reduce confusion while you’re away.
4. Tech & Communication Prep
- Get an international phone/data plan or rely on ship Wi-Fi and messaging apps like WhatsApp or iMessage.
- Set up email autoresponders for personal and professional contacts.
- Bring a lightweight device for email, video calls, or journaling your journey.
- Use cloud storage to back up documents, photos, and notes on the go.
5. Mental Prep: Embrace the Pace of Slow Travel
A world cruise isn’t a rush—it’s a rhythm. Prepare mentally to embrace long, relaxing stretches at sea, digital detox moments, and the joy of forming real connections with fellow travelers. The freedom from planning, airports, and stress is part of the gift.
Final Thoughts: The Journey Starts at Home
Preparing for a world cruise means tying up life’s loose ends so you can enjoy the freedom of the open ocean with complete peace of mind. It’s not hard—it just takes planning. With the right balance of focus and excitement, you’ll be able to forget the cares of everyday life for a while and enjoy the journey of a lifetime!
And the very first step- schedule your first first consultation with me and secure your cabin onboard! Don’t hesitate, these voyages sell out quickly! I help travelers choose the perfect sailing, navigate logistics, and prepare every step of the way—from itinerary to insurance to in-suite extras.
Let’s Work Together!
I would love to meet you and get to know all about your dream vacation! So, if you’re ready, schedule your first travel consultation with me now! Not quite ready to start planning yet? Get inspired HERE, and check out my Planning Process to see how I work.
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