Cruising is the ultimate vacation, with great food, drinks, activities, and stunning destinations. However, there are certain tips and hacks that can help you make the most of your cruise. From packing essentials to planning your shore excursions, these tips are beneficial for all cruisers, novices, and pros alike.
Here are 40 unbeatable cruise tips and hacks for the ultimate vacation experience:
Cruise Packing Hacks
Packing cubes
Packing cubes are small, lightweight bags designed to organize and compartmentalize your clothes in your suitcase. They help you keep your clothes sorted—like swimwear in one cube and evening wear in another—so you can easily find what you need without rummaging through your entire suitcase. This organization is especially helpful on a cruise, where you might need quick access to a variety of clothing for different activities and events.
Pack magnetic hooks and clips
Packing magnetic hooks and clips on your cruise can be a game-changer for staying organized and making the most of your cabin space. Most cruise ship doors and walls are made of metal, so these magnetic accessories stick easily. This provides instant extra storage and organization options. You can hang your clothes, towels, or day bags on magnetic hooks, use magnetic clips to keep important papers or itineraries handy, and even attach a magnetic whiteboard to jot down daily plans or messages.
Pack a basic medicine bag
Packing a basic medicine bag for your travels is a practical and essential precaution. This bag should include common over-the-counter medications for seasickness, headaches, allergies, stomach upsets, and any personal prescriptions you may need. Having these items readily available ensures you can handle minor health issues quickly and comfortably, without the stress of finding a pharmacy in an unfamiliar place.
Pack a couple of water bottles
When getting ready for your cruise, it’s a smart idea to pack a couple of water bottles, particularly those that aren’t transparent. These bottles are not only useful for staying hydrated on board or during excursions but also offer a clever advantage: if you’re making stops at ports, you can step off the ship with water and later refill them with other drinks. It’s safe to do this, as these bottles typically aren’t screened when you reboard.
Pack eyemasks and earplugs
When going on a cruise, don’t forget to pack eyemasks and earplugs! These small items can make a huge difference in your comfort. Eyemasks will help block out unwanted light, ensuring you get a good night’s sleep or a restful nap during the day. Earplugs are equally important as they can help drown out any noisy neighbors or sounds from the ship, allowing you to enjoy some peace and quiet.
Pack warm clothing
Packing some warm clothing for your cruise is a smart idea, no matter where you’re going. Even if you’re cruising to the sunny Caribbean, it can get surprisingly cool, especially in the mornings or at night. So, bringing along items like a light sweater or a jacket means you’re guaranteed to stay comfortable throughout your journey.
Pack a dental repair kit
On your cruise, it’s important to be prepared for any small emergencies that might pop up. One smart item to pack is a dental repair kit. This handy kit can help you manage minor dental issues, like a lost filling or a loose crown, until you can get proper care. So, while you’re packing your sunglasses and swimwear, don’t forget to include a dental repair kit—it could be a real vacation saver!
Pack some water shoes
When you’re packing for a cruise, especially one that’s heading to the Caribbean, don’t forget to toss a pair of water shoes into your suitcase. These special shoes are great for protecting your feet from hot sands and rocky shores while you’re exploring beautiful beaches or participating in water activities. They’re lightweight, easy to pack, and can make your adventures both on and off the ship more enjoyable.
Pack a beach bag, tote bag or backpack for sea days
When you’re cruising and enjoying sunny days by the beach, make sure to bring a beach bag, tote bag, or backpack with you. This way, you won’t have to keep going back to your room every time you need something small like your hat, sunglasses, book, or sunscreen. Trust me, those elevator rides can be slow and busy, and it could take you more than 20 minutes just to go back and forth from the pool to your room.
Pack your swimwear in your carry-on bag
A little known hack is to pack your swimwear in your carry-on bag. This way, as soon as you board the ship, you can dive right into the pool or hot tub without having to wait for your main luggage to be delivered to your cabin. Additionally, you’ll likely find fewer lines and crowds around the pool area since most people pack their swimsuits in their checked luggage and can’t access them until later.
Cruise Cabin Selection Hacks
Book a cabin surrounded on all sides
Make sure to book a cruise ship cabin that is surrounded on all sides—above, below, and on either side. By doing so, you reduce the risk of noise and disturbances from the busy corridors and access areas.
Avoid cabins near elevators, stairways, and other high-traffic areas
When booking a cruise, make sure to avoid choosing cabins near elevators, stairways, and other high-traffic areas. These spots can get pretty noisy with people coming and going at all hours, which can disrupt your rest and relaxation. A quieter cabin, away from these busy areas, can provide a more peaceful and enjoyable experience.
Choose a cabin in the midship
When picking a cruise cabin, try to pick one located in the middle of the ship, known as the midship. Being in this area reduces your chance of feeling seasick as it’s the most stable part of the ship. You’ll also find that you’re closer to most of the ship’s activities and amenities.
Avoid cabins with obstructed views from lifeboats/tender boats
When booking a cruise, make sure to steer clear of cabins with views blocked by lifeboats or tender boats. To avoid ending up in such a cabin, one thing you can do is avoid selecting ‘guaranteed cabins,’ which are often offered at a lower price but do not allow you to choose your cabin’s specific location on the ship. This way, you can fully enjoy your sea view without any unwelcome surprises.
Avoid cabins on very low decks
When choosing a cabin for your cruise, make sure to avoid those located on the very bottom decks. These areas tend to be close to the ship’s engines, which can mean more noise and vibration that might disturb your peace. Additionally, these lower decks are near the anchor, so you might get woken up with the sound of the anchor being weighed. Also, the crew frequently moves through these areas, which can add to the noise outside your cabin.
Avoid interconnecting cabins
A good cabin hack is to steer clear of interconnecting cabins. These types of cabins are designed with a door inside that connects to an adjacent cabin. Although they might seem convenient for large groups or families wanting to stay close, they can sometimes compromise your privacy and quietness. The door between the cabins, even when locked, can let through sounds from the next room, which can disrupt your peace and sleep. So, opting for separate cabins is usually the better choice.
Cruise Booking & Planning Hacks
Travel insurance
Cruises are fun, but sometimes unexpected things can happen, like getting sick, missing the cruise because of a delayed flight, or losing your luggage. Travel insurance can help cover the costs of these mishaps, so you don’t have to worry about losing money on top of dealing with the stress of the situation. It can also offer peace of mind, knowing that if something goes wrong, you’re covered.
Fly in or arrive at your cruise port a day early
It’s advisable to arrive at your cruise port a day early because it significantly lowers the risk of missing your cruise due to unforeseen delays, such as flight cancellations or traffic jams. This simple hack is perfect for ensuring a smooth and worry-free start to your vacation.
Some cruise lines will status match a loyalty
Some cruise lines offer a special perk called a “status match.” This means if you’re part of a loyalty program with one cruise line and have earned certain benefits or levels, another cruise line might recognize your status and offer you similar benefits if you cruise with them. If you love cruising and are trying out a new cruise line, it’s a good idea to check if they’ll match your status. Keep in mind that some cruise lines like NCL do not status match loyalty programs.
Book your cruise with a travel agent
Booking your cruise with a travel agent has many benefits. A skilled travel agent brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the table, and can tailor your cruise to fit your personal interests and budget. Sometimes, they have access to exclusive deals and perks that aren’t available to the general public, potentially saving you money and offering added value to your trip. Additionally, travel agents simplify the planning process by handling all the details, from booking the best cabins to arranging transfers and excursions.
Check if your cruise price has dropped
If you’ve already booked your cruise, it’s a good idea to keep an eye on whether the price drops after your purchase. Sometimes, the cost of the cruise can decrease due to various reasons, and if that happens, you might be eligible for some great benefits. These perks could include getting a refund, receiving extra on-board credit, or even getting a cabin upgrade.
There are tools designed to help you monitor cruise price changes, such as price trackers on websites like cruisewatch.com and Cruise Critic. If you do notice a price drop, remember that you’ll need to reach out to the cruise line directly to get the benefits. It’s also important to understand the specific benefits you might receive, as the conditions can vary. For instance, if you’re offered additional on-board credit, check if it’s refundable or non-refundable. In some cases, unused refundable on-board credit can be returned to you in cash.
Book shore excursions in advance
A helpful tip is to always book your shore excursions in advance. This not only ensures you get a spot on the most popular tours and activities, but it also often means better deals and less stress trying to plan activities last minute. Additionally, familiarize yourself with the cancellation policies for cruise excursions. Knowing how far in advance you can cancel without penalties or loss of money can provide peace of mind and flexibility in your travel plans.
Onboard Cruise Hacks
Bring your own alcohol/drinks
Bringing your own alcohol or drinks on a cruise can help you save money, as buying drinks onboard can add up quickly. However, it’s important to know that each cruise line has its own rules about bringing alcohol. For instance, Royal Caribbean allows each guest of drinking age to bring one sealed 750 ml bottle of wine or champagne on embarkation day. But remember, they don’t allow boxed wine or drinks in other containers. So, before you pack, check the cruise line’s website for their specific alcohol policy. This way, you can enjoy your favorite drinks without breaking the bank or the rules.
Hit the spa on port days
Visiting your cruise ship’s spa during port days can be a smart move if you’re looking to save some money. On days when the ship docks and many passengers head ashore to explore, the spa often lowers its prices to attract guests who choose to stay on board. This means you can enjoy relaxing treatments like massages, facials, and more at a reduced cost. It’s a perfect opportunity to treat yourself to some pampering without breaking the bank.
Take advantage of kids’ clubs
A great cruise tip for families is taking advantage of the kids’ clubs onboard. These clubs offer a safe and fun environment for children, usually aged between 3 to 17. The clubs offer a variety of activities, games, and entertainment tailored to their age group. While kids are at the club, parents can grab some well-deserved relaxation time or explore adult-centric amenities and activities the cruise has to offer.
Book your next cruise onboard
Booking your next cruise while you’re onboard comes with some great benefits that make it a smart choice. One of the biggest perks is the low booking deposit and additional onboard credit. Cruise lines offer programs such as Royal Caribbean’s Next Cruise and NCL’s CruiseNext, which are designed to make booking your next cruise while onboard easier.
Don’t be afraid to ask for items off the menu
On a cruise, it’s perfectly fine to ask for items that aren’t on the menu. Cruise ships are happy to cater to various dietary needs and personal preferences, and the staff are generally happy to accommodate special requests whenever possible. Whether you’re craving something a little different or have specific dietary requirements, don’t hesitate to speak up.
Make notice of signals cruise ships put in place so you don’t get lost
Cruise ships have various ways to help you find your way and avoid getting lost. Every cabin is numbered, starting at number one, at the front of the ship, and, as you walk towards the rear of the ship the numbers increase. Additionally, some cruise lines, like DCL, have unique markers such as a metal fish pointing towards the back of the ship. Additionally, ships often differentiate sides by having even-numbered cabins on the port side and odd-numbered ones on the starboard side. You might even find different colored carpets for each side of the ship. These clues are designed to make navigating the ship easier for everyone.
Cruise Tech & Convenience Hacks
Download maps for offline use
Downloading maps for offline use is a smart move when you’re going on a cruise. Often, when the ship docks at different ports, you might not have Wi-Fi or a strong internet connection. With offline maps, you can still find your way around, locate important spots like restaurants, attractions, or emergency services without needing the internet.
Bring a multi-port USB charger
When you’re packing for your cruise, don’t forget to bring a multi-port USB charger. Cruise cabins often have limited outlets, making it a challenge to keep all your devices charged. A multi-port charger is a simple solution, allowing you to charge multiple devices like your phone, camera, and tablet all at the same time, from just one outlet. This small addition to your packing list can make a big difference in keeping your gadgets powered up and ready to capture all the fun moments of your cruise.
Get familiar with the cruise line app
Make sure to download the cruise app before your trip. This way, you can access all the important information about your journey easily. With the app, you can check the schedule of activities, dining options, and even book shore excursions. It’s convenient and ensures you have everything you need right at your fingertips when you set sail. Don’t forget to download it in advance to make your cruise experience smoother and more enjoyable.
Bring a lanyard for your ID
Bringing a lanyard for your ID on a cruise is a smart move. It’s such a simple thing, but it makes a big difference. When you’re on a cruise, you have to show your ID pretty often, like when getting on and off the ship or making purchases. Having your ID on a lanyard around your neck means you won’t have to dig through your bag every time you need it. It keeps your ID safe and accessible, so you can enjoy your vacation without worrying about losing it. Plus, it’s super convenient and lets you keep your hands free for snapping photos, holding snacks, or anything else you want to do.
Do-it-yourself (DIY) shore excursions
Do-it-yourself (DIY) shore excursions can be a great way to cut down on costs while cruising. Instead of booking expensive tours through the cruise line, you can plan your own adventures when the ship docks. For example, you might rent a bike to explore the local scenery of a Caribbean island, take a leisurely stroll through the historic districts of a European port city, or find a secluded beach to relax on in the South Pacific.
DIY shore excursions not only save you money but also allow for a more personalized and flexible experience. You can explore at your own pace, choose the sights you’re most interested in, and even find more affordable dining options. As a side note, make sure to check the cancellation policy for the excursion so you’re able to cancel and rebook if there’s a dip in prices.
Bring some board games
When packing for your cruise, don’t forget to bring along some board games! They’re a perfect way to spend time and bond with your friends or family, especially on those days when you’re at sea and looking for a fun activity. Some great options include classics like Uno, which is always a hit with people of all ages. You could also bring along Scrabble for a bit of a brain challenge, or Monopoly for longer, more strategic gameplay.
Bring a passport to your cruise
Bringing a passport on your cruise is a good idea, even if you’re cruising close to home. This is because if any unexpected situations happen, like needing to fly back home from another country because of an emergency, having your passport will make things a lot easier. It’s a small item that can make a big difference in making your cruise experience hassle-free and enjoyable.
Make sure to check the passport expiry date before your trip to ensure it’s valid.
Fill out the hotel director questionnaire
Filling out the hotel director questionnaire (if your cruise offers one) on your cruise is always a good idea. This survey is a direct line to the people who can make immediate changes to enhance your experience. For example, if your cabin is noisy, letting them know through the questionnaire could lead to an upgrade or a solution to your problem. It’s your opportunity to communicate what you’re enjoying or what could be improved. The hotel director and their team value this feedback, as it helps them address issues promptly, potentially making your cruise experience even more enjoyable. So, spending a few minutes on this survey can make a significant impact on your cruise.
Join Cruise Critic roll calls
Joining Cruise Critic roll calls is a smart move for any cruiser. In these groups, you can connect with other people who will be on the same cruise as you, even before you set foot on the ship. Here, experienced cruisers share their best tips and tricks about everything from the best spots on the ship to hidden gems in port cities. Whether it’s your first cruise or your tenth, being part of a roll call can help you make the most out of your vacation, meet new friends, and even plan fun meetups on board.
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