When you’re packing for a cruise, the essentials are easy to remember: swimwear, sunscreen, and comfy shoes. But seasoned cruisers know that there are a few extra items you can pack to make your cruise that much smoother. Whether it’s an item that makes your cabin feel more like home or a gadget that keeps things organized on board, there are clever little things that can make a big difference on your cruise.
In this list, you’ll find 30 unexpected items that experienced cruisers swear by. These small, compact items will fit perfectly in your suitcase and help solve everyday cruise problems, from cabin organization to maximizing relaxation on board. Get ready to pack smarter and make the most of your time at sea!
30 Items Pro Cruisers Never Forget to Pack
1. Magnetic Hooks
Most cruise ship walls and ceilings are metallic, which means magnets will stick to them with ease. Magnetic hooks allow you to hang items like hats, lanyards, and jackets anywhere in your cabin, which helps add extra storage without taking up precious space.
Dive into all there is to know about Magnetic Hooks, from user reviews to availability.
Tip: Magnetic hooks can be used to hold heavier items as long as you check their weight limit.
2. Power Strip (Non-Surge Protected)
Cabins often have limited outlets, especially on older ships. A non-surge-protected power strip will help you charge multiple devices at once.
Find more details on cruise-friendly, non-surge-protected power strips.
Tip: Most cruise lines allow only non-surge protected power strips, as surge protectors can interfere with the ship’s electrical system. Be sure to check your cruise line’s guidelines to avoid having your power strip confiscated.
3. USB Charging Station
A USB charging station is a smart choice for cruises, where outlets are often limited. This small, compact device allows multiple devices to charge from one outlet, making it easier to keep all your devices powered up.
Discover USB charging stations that keep all your devices powered from a single outlet.
4. Bleach Wipes
Cabins are usually cleaned daily by housekeeping staff who work hard to keep everything spotless. Despite this, if you’re uncertain about the cleanliness of certain areas or notice a spot that could use extra attention, having bleach wipes on hand can provide added peace of mind.
Check out Bleach Wipes to keep on hand for a quick, thorough wipe-down as needed.
5. Pop-up laundry bags
I never realized how much I’d love having a pop-up laundry bag on a cruise until I finally packed one. Lightweight and practically invisible in my suitcase, it sprang open in my cabin, giving me an instant, organized spot for dirty clothes. No more hunting for plastic bags or mixing worn clothes with fresh ones—it kept everything neat and separated.
By the end of the cruise, I could just fold it up and pop it back into my bag, mess-free. It’s a small item, but it brings a surprising amount of peace and organization to any cruise!
Find out everything you need about Pop-up Laundry Bags, including customer feedback, availability, and cost.
Tip: Hang your pop-up laundry bag on a magnetic hook on the cabin wall or bathroom door. This keeps it off the floor, saves space, and makes tossing in clothes super convenient!
6. Sticky Notes
Sticky notes are a convenient way to leave reminders for yourself or others in your cabin. Whether it’s a quick message for your steward or a reminder of plans, they’re handy to have on board.
Check out Sticky Notes with top reviews to help you stay organized on board.
7. Toilet Spray
Since cruise bathrooms are often small and lack windows, a bathroom air freshener or toilet spray can make a world of difference. Many seasoned cruisers consider it a must-have.
Check out this Toilet Spray with top reviews, perfect for small, windowless bathrooms.
Tip: Choose a travel-size spray to save space in your luggage while keeping your bathroom fresh.
8. Waterproof Phone Case
Whether you’re lounging by the pool or going on a shore excursion, a waterproof phone case can save your device from water damage, keeping it safe from splashes or unexpected weather.
Check out this Waterproof Phone Case with all the essential details and customer reviews.
9. Over-the-Door Organizer
A foldable over-the-door organizer with clear pockets is perfect for storing toiletries, accessories, or snacks, freeing up counter space in your cabin. These organizers are lightweight and easy to pack, and they hang neatly on any door, keeping your essentials visible and within reach.
See why an Over-the-Door Organizer is a cruise must-have, with essential details and feedback here.
10. Sensor Night Light
Cruise cabins can get very dark at night. A small sensor night light provides a dim glow, helping you navigate to the bathroom without disturbing anyone else.
Here’s a link to a Sensor Night Light, perfect for adding a gentle glow to your cabin.
Tip: Battery-operated models are ideal for cruises since you won’t need to use an outlet, freeing up cabin plugs for other devices.
11. Reusable Water Bottle
Staying hydrated is crucial, and a reusable water bottle can help you avoid extra charges for bottled water. Many ships offer water stations for easy refills.
Check out this Reusable Water Bottle with all the essential details and top-rated reviews.
Tip: Cruise ship water is typically treated with chlorine, so if you’re sensitive to its taste, consider a water bottle with a filter. Here’s a link to a filtered Reusable Water Bottle with reviews and a price that won’t break the bank.
12. Snacks (Granola Bars, Nuts)
Great for long shore excursions or midnight cravings, having a stash of packaged snacks means you won’t have to rely on the ship’s late-night options.
Discover this cheesy nut mix, a perfect snack option for shore excursions or late-night cravings. If you’re craving something sweet, honey roasted almonds are another great choice to keep on hand.
Tip: Worried about bringing food on board? Don’t worry—sealed, unopened snacks are allowed on every major cruise line.
13. Small Portable Fan
In humid cruise destinations like the Caribbean or Bahamas, a small fan can be a lifesaver, providing a cool breeze when relaxing in your cabin.
Find out more about this Small Portable Fan, including essential facts and customer reviews for staying cool on board.
14. Dry Bag
Designed to be waterproof, a dry bag is perfect for beach outings or water-based excursions. It keeps valuables safe from splashes, rain, and sand, so you don’t have to worry if your bag gets wet.
Here’s a link to a Dry Bag that’s ideal for water excursions and keeping items protected.
Tip: Choose a dry bag with a shoulder strap or backpack-style design for easy carrying during excursions.
15. Lanyard for Key Card
Your key card is used for everything on a cruise, from unlocking your cabin to checking in for excursions and dining reservations. A lanyard makes it easy to keep it accessible and secure.
Find out why cruisers love this Lanyard for Key Card—read reviews and discover key features here.
16. Laundry Detergent Packs
If you plan on doing laundry during your cruise, single-use detergent packs let you wash clothes in the ship’s facilities without paying onboard prices.
Discover this Laundry Detergent Pack, perfect for quick, hassle-free washing during your cruise.
Tip: Pro cruisers suggest packing them in a waterproof bag to prevent any spills in your luggage.
17. Earplugs or White Noise Machine
With so many guests and activities, cruise ships can get quite loud. Cabins near elevators, theaters, and pool decks tend to experience more noise. A white noise machine or earplugs can help drown out sounds, letting you rest more peacefully.
Here’s a link for earplugs that can block out cruise noise and let you sleep soundly. For added comfort, check out this White Noise Machine to create a peaceful sleep environment.
18. Small Umbrella or Poncho
When on a cruise, you never know when a rain shower might hit during an excursion. A small rain poncho or umbrella is convenient for quick rain protection without taking up much room.
This Small Umbrella is great for sudden downpours on a cruise, keeping you dry without the bulk. A Poncho is another great choice for keeping dry on your cruise.
19. Towel Clips
On a cruise, the ocean breeze can be strong, especially on the pool deck or at a beach excursion. Towel clips keep your towel securely in place, so you’re not constantly adjusting it.
Tip: Choose bright-colored clips to easily spot your chair in busy areas.
20. Packing Cubes
Packing cubes make organizing your clothes and essentials easier and save space in your luggage, making unpacking in your cruise cabin a breeze. Simply place your cubes in drawers or on shelves without any hassle.
Tip: Use separate cubes for different items like swimwear, evening outfits, and toiletries to help with organization and save cabin space.
21. Hanging Toiletry Bag
A hanging toiletry bag helps keep your toiletries organized and accessible in small cruise bathrooms where counter space is limited. Simply hang it up and enjoy easy access to all your essentials.
Tip: Choose one with clear compartments to quickly spot items without rummaging.
22. Digital Travel Alarm Clock
A digital travel alarm clock ensures you stay on schedule, especially for early excursions or breakfast reservations. Compact and easy to use, it’s a reliable option for keeping track of time without relying on your phone.
Discover this Digital Travel Alarm Clock with a simple interface and a gentle alarm sound, perfect for waking up without disrupting others.
Tip: Choose one with a backlight feature to easily check the time at night without turning on cabin lights.
23. RFID Blocker Wallet
An RFID blocker wallet protects your cards from electronic pickpocketing, keeping your personal information safe while you’re traveling. Compact and secure, it’s perfect for peace of mind on a cruise and avoiding scams.
Don’t let scammers ruin your cruise experience. Find out the tricks they’re using with this must-read article.
Check out this RFID Blocker Wallet that includes multiple card slots and a sleek design, making it both practical and stylish.
Tip: Choose a slim version to fit easily in small bags or pockets, minimizing bulk while staying secure.
24. Collapsible Backpack
A collapsible backpack is perfect for shore excursions and day trips, offering extra storage when needed and folding down small to fit in your luggage.
25. Mini First Aid Kit
It might not seem necessary to bring a first aid kit, since cruise ships have medical facilities for passengers. However, a mini kit allows you to quickly handle small issues like cuts or blisters without leaving your cabin.
26. Eye Shades
Though your cabin may have blackout curtains, unexpected lights from devices or hallway lights can still disturb your sleep. Eye shades provide complete darkness, helping you fall asleep faster.
Check out these Eye Shades with top reviews, allowing for comfortable, uninterrupted sleep.
Tip: Look for a lightweight pair if you’re a sensitive sleeper who dislikes heavy fabrics.
27. Smart Luggage Tracker
Even on a cruise, luggage can sometimes be delayed or misplaced during embarkation, and having a smart luggage tracker can give you peace of mind. Apple’s AirTag is a popular option, using the extensive network of Apple devices worldwide to locate your bag with precision. The AirTag connects to your iPhone, letting you check its location on the Find My app.
Learn all the essentials about luggage tracking gadgets with reviews and more.
28. Pashmina or Lightweight Scarf
If you’re cruising to Alaska or another chilly destination, a pashmina or lightweight scarf is the perfect accessory to keep warm without bulk. This stylish wrap can be easily draped around your shoulders on cool evenings or doubled as a cozy blanket during windy deck moments.
Onboard, it’s handy for keeping warm in air-conditioned dining areas or lounges where the temperature can drop unexpectedly. Plus, it also adds a stylish touch to your evening outfit, giving you both comfort and elegance.
Check out this fantastic, elegant-looking pashmina shawl with great reviews.
29. Dental Repair Kit
If you experience a chipped tooth or loose filling on a cruise, a dental repair kit can be a lifesaver. The kit includes temporary filling material to manage minor dental issues until you return home.
Tip: Be sure to read the instructions before you need it, so you’re prepared if an issue arises.
30. Handheld Luggage Scale
Avoid unexpected fees for overweight luggage with a handheld luggage scale, especially helpful when bringing home souvenirs. This compact tool allows you to weigh your bags before disembarkation, so you’re prepared for airport limits.
Simply hook the scale to your bag, lift, and check the weight displayed to know if you need to make adjustments. It’s lightweight and easy to pack, making it a convenient travel companion.
Check out this Handheld Luggage Scale with top reviews, product details, and more.
Tip: Choose a digital scale for easy-to-read accuracy, so there’s no guessing.
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