Careful preparation can make all the difference in ensuring smooth and hassle-free travels. This guide offers practical tips to help you navigate every step of your journey to join the ship.
Before you leave home
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Organize your essential documents.
- Keep your passport, visa, and other important documents in your carry-on luggage.
- Make copies of these documents and store them in your checked luggage or a separate bag as a backup.
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Charge your electronic devices.
- Ensure all your electronic devices are fully charged before you leave home.
- Make sure that you have your charging cables accessible in your carry-on luggage, so you can stay powered up throughout your trip.
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Bring money with you, just in case.
- While credit cards are widely accepted, having some cash on hand can be helpful for small purchases or emergencies.
- Don't forget your pay card!
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Understand airline policies:
- Remember that policies differ between airlines, so check with your airline directly to understand their particular requirements and procedures.
- Familiarize yourself with your airline's luggage policies to avoid any last-minute surprises regarding weight limits and baggage fees. You are responsible for any additional charges based on weight or additional pieces of luggage. However, if the airline does not include two pieces of baggage, then you will be eligible for reimbursement from Disney Cruise Line, up to a maximum of 2 pieces, and a maximum of 23kgs per bag for the second bag, regardless of the weight limit set by the airline for the first bag.
- The ability to pre-reserve seats prior to check-in varies from airline to airline and is subject to their policy. DCL does not reimburse any additional fees for reserving of seats. If a Crew Member decides to purchase a seat assignment or extra legroom seat in advance, they are doing so at their own expense, and this expense will not be reimbursed if there is a change in contract date.
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Double check your flight time.
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Check with the airline beginning 72 hours before your flight time for any last-minute update or schedule changes.
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Prepare for security checks:
- Be mindful when packing to keep your electronics and liquids accessible, and wear shoes that you can easily remove if required.
- Ensure you are not bringing any items prohibited by airport security, customs, or local laws or any items that are not allowed onboard.
Checking in for your flight
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Complete online check-in if you can.
- Check in to your flight as soon as you are able. Online check-in typically opens 24 hours before the flight but may be earlier depending on the airline.
- If you are unable to receive your boarding pass online, give yourself extra time to check in at the airport as lines may be long.
- If you do not check-in for your flight within the airline's designated time frame, you may be denied boarding.
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Arrive early at the airport.
- Plan to arrive at least 3 hours prior to an international flight to check in and check your luggage. This will give you ample time for check-in, security, and any unforeseen delays.
- Check your boarding pass and the monitors at the airport for your gate information and the status of your flight boarding process. It is important to be at the gate at your flight's boarding time, which is earlier than the scheduled departure time on your itinerary.
While you are traveling
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Stay connected:
- Regularly check in with family and friends to keep them updated on your whereabouts.
- Keep Disney Cruise Line informed of any changes to your travel plans.
- Sign up for travel notifications from your airline to stay updated on flight status, gate changes, and other important information.
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Know who will help you if your flight is delayed or cancelled.
- If your flight is canceled or delayed, speak with the airline representatives to determine what options may be available.
- If the airline is unable to get you on a flight that will arrive in time for you to embark as scheduled, or if you have any questions about what you should do, please contact the Crew Emergency phone line at +1-407-566-6999 or by email at DCL.Crew.Travel@disney.com.
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Know what is available to you during long layovers:
- If your flight itinerary includes a layover of 8 hours or more, you may choose to book a hotel. (Make sure to set your alarm to be back at the airport in time!) The amount that is eligible for reimbursement will vary based on the location; please refer to your travel itinerary or contact us if you have any questions.
- If your flight itinerary includes a layover of 6 hours or more, you are eligible for reimbursement up to $40 USD for meals or snacks.
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Keep track of any expenses:
- Take photos of receipts for any expenses incurred during your trip that you plan to submit for reimbursement. If you need assistance with this process, please review this article or speak with the Crew Office onboard.
When you are onboard
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Submit your travel preferences
- Travel preferences must be submitted 7 weeks prior to your scheduled debark date in order to be considered when itineraries are booked. Please view this article for answers to Frequently Asked Questions about the travel policy.
We hope these tips will help you have a worry-free travel experience and stay organized, stay informed, and most importantly, stay safe!
