Ahoy, Traci!
Thanks so much for stopping by the Disney Parks Moms Panel with your question.
Packing for a Disney Cruise Line vacation can be a challenge - just ask me, a former "overpacker". Our suitcases used to be stuffed to the seams, and we didn't even use half the things we brought with us! Since then, I've learned to follow the
Disney Cruise Line Packing List, and only bring the necessities.
If this is your first Disney Cruise, bringing along lanyards is a great idea. Each guest will be issued a "Key to the World" card when you check in at the port terminal. The card will serve as your stateroom key, ship boarding pass, and shipboard charge card. You'll want to have it with you at all times, so most guests, including young buccaneers, wear them on lanyards around their necks.
Lanyards also come in handy for guests who want to participate in Pin Trading while on the ship. Many of the crew and Cast Members are available to pin trade with guests, and we've gotten some really cool collectible pins through the years! No need to worry if you don't have lanyards before you embark on your Disney Cruise, they have super-cute Disney Cruise Line lanyards in the
onboard gift shops.
I hope this helps with your planning - have a magical day! - Diane W.