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🧳 Must-Have Items to Pack for Your Next Cruise

that you might not know you need

 

Whether you're setting sail for tropical sunshine or scenic glaciers, packing smart can make your cruise more comfortable, organized, and stress-free. Here are some cruise essentials you might not have thought of—but will be glad you brought!

 

🚢 Cabin Comfort & Organization

Your cruise cabin is cozy—and sometimes tight on space. These items help maximize comfort and organization:

 

Heavy-Duty Magnetic Hooks
Cruise cabin walls are often metal—magnetic hooks can hold hats, swimsuits, bags, and lanyards to keep clutter off the counters.
 

Hanging Toiletry Bag
Cabin bathrooms are small. A hanging bag keeps all your toiletries tidy and accessible.
 

Motion Sensor Night Light
Avoid fumbling around in the dark or waking your cabin mate with overhead lights.
 

Mini Compact Fan
Cabins can feel warm or stuffy—especially if you prefer airflow while sleeping. A small fan helps keep you cool.
 

Alarm Clock for Travel
There’s no bedside clock in most cruise cabins. Bring a compact one if you like having the time at a glance.
 

Pop-Up Laundry Hamper
Keep your dirty clothes contained and out of the way. These fold flat for packing.
 

Downy Wrinkle Release & Tide Stain Sticks
Help your clothes stay fresh and cruise-dinner-ready without access to an iron.
 

🔌 Tech & Power Essentials

Cruise cabins have limited outlets, and some electronics aren’t allowed.

 

Non-Surge Protected Power Strip
Cruise-safe power strips (no surge protection) give you extra outlets for charging devices.
 

Multi-USB Charging Blocks
Helpful for charging multiple phones, tablets, or e-readers without needing extra wall space.
 

Portable Chargers/Power Banks
Perfect for excursions or long days exploring the ship when an outlet isn’t nearby.
 

International Power Adapter
Great for pre- or post-cruise stays in countries with different outlet types.  Also would give you extra plug in space because cruise staterooms usually have an international socket.
 

Digital Luggage Scale
Avoid overweight baggage fees on your way home.
 

🧳 Luggage & Packing Helpers

 

Cruise Luggage Tags
Reusable plastic tags protect your printed cruise line luggage tags from tearing off in transit.
 

AirTags or Luggage Trackers
These help you keep tabs on your bags during travel days and embarkation.
 

Foldable Backpack
Great for excursions or carrying extra layers—folds up small in your luggage.
 

Mesh Tote for Beach Gear (Warm Weather Cruises)
Ideal for sandy gear and wet swimsuits—easy to shake out and rinse clean.
 

☀️ Excursion & Outdoor Gear

 

Sunhat (Warm Weather Cruises)
Protects your face and scalp from strong sun while on deck or onshore.
 

Waterproof Phone Case
Use your phone at the beach or on a boat without worrying about water damage.
 

Reef-Friendly Sunscreen
Protect your skin and the ocean—especially important for destinations like Hawaii and the Caribbean.
 

Lip Balm with SPF
Your lips need sun protection, too—don’t forget this little essential.
 

Binoculars (Alaska & Scenic Cruises)
Great for spotting whales, glaciers, and distant ports from your balcony or deck.
 

💧 Hydration & Drinkware

 

Collapsible or Refillable Water Bottles
Stay hydrated onboard and ashore without creating plastic waste.
 

Stainless Steel Water Bottle
Keeps drinks cold for hours and is more durable for active days.
 

Insulated Travel Mug
Perfect for bringing your morning coffee or tea to the deck.
 

🛁 Bathroom & Personal Care

 

Poo-Pourri or Bathroom Spray
Helps keep shared cabin bathrooms fresh for everyone.
 

Medication Organizer/Pill Box
Keep daily medications sorted and easy to access as well as over the counter drugs you may need.
 

Cruise First Aid Kit
Include basics like seasickness remedies, pain relievers, band-aids, and allergy meds—just in case.
 

📝 Extras You’ll Be Glad You Packed

 

Cruise Lanyard
Keep your room key/card handy around your neck—it’s your ID, charge card, and room access.
 

Silicone or Collapsible Straws
Many cruise lines have phased out plastic straws—bring your own reusable ones.
 

Highlighters, Pens, Post-It Notes
Helpful for marking the daily schedule or leaving notes for cabin mates.
 

Thank You Notes for Cruise Staff
A thoughtful way to show appreciation, especially if you’re tipping extra.
 

Wrap or Shawl
Air-conditioned spaces and breezy evenings call for a light layer—even on warm-weather cruises.
 

Travel Hairdryer
If you're picky about dryers or need more power than the basic one provided in your cabin.
 

Packing these smart extras can take your cruise from “great” to “amazing.” What’s your favorite item to bring aboard? Reach out if you want help planning your next sailing adventure!