Packing for a cruise is an exciting adventure in itself. But are you bringing the essential cruise items seasoned cruisers swear by? I’m not talking about sunscreen, a swimsuit, and your favorite flip-flops. It’s unusual items like magnetic hooks, a lanyard, an over-the-door organizer, and an insulated coffee mug. These cruise essentials can upgrade your cruise experience to first class.
Packing for a cruise vacation requires a different approach than other types of vacations. You must consider shore excursions, formal nights, ship activities, and lounging by the pool. Additionally, cabins tend to be more compact than hotel rooms, so having accessories to save space is essential for a cruise packing list.
In this article, I’ll share my cruise packing hacks to maximize cruise ship cabin space, reduce laundry bills, and have lightweight gear. You’ll discover essential items you never thought were necessary on a ship.
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What to Pack for a Cruise
My cruise packing checklist includes items to maximize cabin space and comfort. But there’s one must-have for a cruise vacation—magnets. Cruise ship walls and doors are made of metal, making magnetic hooks, clips, and organizers essential items. They’ll help give you extra space in the smallest of cruise cabins.
43 Unusual Items to Pack for a Cruise
After years of cruising, I’ve discovered several unusual items that make a massive difference on vacation.
Let me share the secrets of my ultimate cruise packing checklist. If you think they’ll be helpful for your next cruise, I’ve included links to find them online.
Magnetic hooks
Magnetic hooks are a must-pack item for cruise vacations. The hooks easily attach to cruise ship cabin walls and doors, helping to add extra storage space. I love them for hanging coats, hats, towels, and anything else I don’t want lying around.
Find out everything you need to know about Magnetic Hooks, including customer feedback and availability.
Magnetic clips
Do you want to stay organized onboard? If so, magnetic clips are a great item to include on your cruise packing list. I use them to keep excursion tickets, travel documents, and daily schedules tidy. They are invaluable for ensuring desks are clutter-free.
Explore designs, reviews, cost, and purchasing details for Magnetic Clips.
Magnetic dry-erase board
A small magnetic dry-erase board is always in my cruise luggage. I use it to leave notes, reminders, or messages in my cruise cabin. It’s also handy to leave messages for my cabin steward. I’ve seen other cruise passengers attach them to their cabin doors so fellow passengers can leave messages.
The good news is that you can use it at home by attaching it to your fridge door.
Discover more about Magnetic Dry-Erase Boards, including detailed reviews and where to buy them online.
Alternatively, you can use colorful Post-it notes for reminders or leave cabin stewards friendly messages.
Magnetic hanging jewelry organizer
Do you want to keep necklaces, earrings, and rings in an easily accessible place? If so, a magnetic hanging jewelry organizer is the solution. Simply attach to the cabin wall to save space in drawers and keep accessories tangle-free.
Packing cubes
Compression packing cubes are invaluable space savers in cruise luggage and cabins. I usually unzip them and pop them on shelves and drawers to save time unpacking. Of course, cubes are an essential packing hack for any vacation.
Get full details and feedback on Packing Cubes from other users to help decide if you need them for your cruise.
Pop-up laundry bags
Taking a pop-up laundry bag was one of the most helpful cruise packing tips I found. They’re lightweight, easy to pack, and don’t take up space when not used. Perfect for keeping dirty clothes separated from clean ones.
Find out everything you need about Pop-up Laundry Bags, including customer feedback, availability, and cost.
Over-the-door shoe organizer
An over-the-door shoe organizer is a must-have item on a cruise packing list. This ultimate cabin space saver can store more than shoes. You can maximize vertical space and store toiletries, small clothing items, and anything else that fits into a shoe box.
Check out reviews and features for the Over-the-Door Shoe Organizer before deciding.
Hanging toiletry bag
A hanging bag to store toiletries in the bathroom is an invaluable space saver. Use a magnet hook or a suction one on the glass shower cabinet to hang it. You can keep creams, toothpaste, gels, insect repellents, razors, and other bathroom essentials here. It is ideal for maintaining counters free from clutter.
Explore specifications, reviews, and purchasing details for the Hanging Toiletry Bag.
Foldable hangers
Are you always short on hangers in a cruise cabin closet? If so, foldable travel hangers are perfect for hanging clothes, especially fancy clothing for a formal night. It also saves time because you don’t have to ask the cabin steward to bring more.
Find more details, user reviews, and pricing information on Foldable Hangers.
Portable clothesline
A portable clothesline is always on my cruise packing checklist, as it lets me dry small items in my cruise cabin. You only need a couple of magnetic hooks to set up the clotheslines. This way, I can save on laundry bills by washing underwear, socks, and t-shirts in the sink.
Check out reviews and features for the Portable Clothesline before making your decision.
Travel-sized detergent sheets for hand washing
I always pack detergent sheets for hand washing smaller items. I find these handier than taking a bottle of detergent. These sheets contain natural enzymes, are biodegradable, and are hypoallergenic. Because they are sheets, they also save on luggage space and weight.
Find more details, user reviews, and pricing information on Detergent Sheets.
Cruise-compliant non-surge protected power bar
Cruise ship cabins never seem to have enough outlets. That’s why a non-surge-protected power bar is a vital item for packing. You’ll get enough outlets for gadgets and USB plugs to charge devices.
Find essential facts about the Cruise-Compliant Power Bar, including customer feedback, availability, and cruise line compliance.
Digital travel alarm clock
I’ve found that taking a lightweight travel alarm clock is more straightforward than using my mobile phone. This cabin essential helps me better plan my day and keep track of different time zones. It’s also been a lifesaver to ensure I’m up in good time for early shore excursions.
Learn more about the Digital Travel Alarm Clock, including features, reviews, and pricing.
Sunrise Wake-Up Light
An illuminated alarm clock is one of the best packing tips when booking an inside cabin. It mimics sunrise to wake you up gently—much better than the shock of switching a light on in a pitch-black room. It also has natural sounds like sea waves, again, perfect for inside cabins.
Learn about the Wake Up Light to discover its features, read reviews, and decide if it’s worth it.
Motion sensor night light
Buying a motion sensor night light was one of the best purchases for my cabin. I was constantly bumping into things when getting up for nighttime bathroom trips. The battery-powered light provides gentle illumination without disturbing others.
Discover more about the Motion Sensor Night light, including detailed reviews and where to buy.
Battery-operated portable fan
Packing a compact battery-operated fan helps control stateroom temperatures, especially at night. Ideal for cabins without balconies, it circulates the air, keeping it cooler and less stuffy. It also takes up less space than a fan on the ship.
Find out specifications about the Portable Fan, including customer feedback, availability, and price.
Lanyard
As all seasoned cruisers know, it’s vital to always have your cruise key card with you. That’s why I also pack a lanyard in my luggage. It makes carrying the key card convenient and comfortable, regardless of what I wear.
Explore different designs, read reviews, and get cost details for a cruise-suitable Lanyard.
RFID blocker wallet
Contactless credit cards make paying for items onshore more convenient. But I heard about one cruiser who got scammed when someone scanned their credit card without their knowledge. That’s why I decided to invest in an RFID blocker wallet. It keeps cards secure and compact for travel.
Find out essential facts about RFID Blocker Wallets, including customer feedback, usage, and availability.
Collapsible water bottle
A collapsible water bottle was one of my best and most useful purchases for shore excursions. First, it takes up almost no space in my luggage. Second, I save money onboard by filling the bottle at the dispenser in the buffet restaurant. It also has a handy clip for attaching to my backpack.
Check out various designs and styles of the Collapsible Water Bottle, including genuine customer reviews and pricing options.
Waterproof bag and phone case
Have you planned shore excursions like kayaking, paddleboarding, or boat trips? If so, a waterproof bag and phone case are essential items to pack. You have peace of mind on the water, knowing your gear is at hand and nothing will get wet, especially your mobile phone.
Check out types and various sizes of Waterproof Bags that come complete with a phone case.
After hearing a horror story about one cruiser who dropped his mobile phone in the ocean on his first day, I decided to invest in a floating waterproof phone case. I was glad of it when I accidentally dropped my phone while kayaking.
Collapsible backpack
I discovered that a lightweight, collapsible backpack is invaluable for shore excursions. I love that it folds into pocket size, so it’s not bulky to carry when empty. Also, it takes up no space in my checked-in luggage or hand luggage.
Discover what other travelers think of this Collapsible Backpack, read reviews, and explore available options.
Small folding umbrella or poncho
Even on Caribbean cruises, a poncho and umbrella can be useful items. To avoid them taking up much room in my case, I invested in a folding, wind-resistant umbrella with UV protection. Therefore, it’s also ideal for walking excursions to keep shaded from the sun.
Discover color and design options for a traveler’s Folding Umbrella along with the cost. This link has lightweight, heavy-duty ponchos for wet weather.
Handheld luggage scale
We’ve all done it—bought a load of duty-free bottles, gifts, and souvenirs only to find our luggage is overweight. Therefore, I always ensure I have a handheld luggage scale with me on a cruise. This way, I can distribute weight evenly between cases and avoid excess baggage fees.
Here’s a link to a nifty Handheld Luggage Scale where you can find information on pricing, reviews, and features.
Mini first aid kit
A traveler’s first aid kit is vital for any vacation, especially a cruise. Having antibiotic ointment, Band-Aids, painkillers, and other first-aid supplies lets you treat minor injuries or ailments on board without a costly trip to the onboard doctor. Also, don’t forget seasickness remedies and allergy medicine.
Learn more about the Mini First Aid Kit, including features, reviews, and pricing.
Dental repair kit
I never realized how valuable a dental repair kit was until a filling came loose during a cruise. Thankfully, a traveling companion had a kit, and I could make a quick temporary fix. Since then, I have always packed a tooth-filling kit in my luggage.
Check out this helpful Dental Repair Kit to see if it’s worth taking on your next cruise.
Disinfecting wipes and hand gel
Disinfecting sprays, wipes, and hand gel are essential to avoid getting sick during the cruise. Nasty bugs like norovirus, colds, and flu are easily transmitted on surfaces in public places. It’s always a good idea to have disinfecting hand gel handy, especially for shore excursions and before eating.
I came across these bleach-free disinfecting wipes that have a pleasant scent. Also, bulk-buying pocket-sized hand sanitizer gel bottles can work out cheaper than individual ones.
Sewing kit
A small sewing kit is handy for quick clothing repairs. It could be something as simple as sewing on a button or fixing a ripped garment. Whatever the job, the compact sewing kit can save the day when needed.
Discover more about the Sewing Kit, including detailed reviews, what’s included, and where to buy. This one is also TSA-compliant.
Eye shades
Eye shades are handy items to pack in your cruise luggage for a good night’s sleep. Despite blackout curtains in cruise ships, much light still filters through around the edges. Eye shades are also ideal for getting some shuteye during the day.
Explore various designs and reviews of some of the most popular Eye Shades for taking on a cruise vacation.
Noise-canceling earplugs
Noise-canceling earplugs are a lifesaver if you’re a light sleeper or sleep with a snorer. You may want to take a nap during the day, have noisy neighbors, or have a cabin close to an entertainment venue. Whatever the case, earplugs will help you get some rest.
Find out everything you need about Noise-Canceling Earplugs, including customer feedback, cost, and availability.
Pashmina or lightweight scarf
A pashmina scarf is one of the most versatile clothing accessories for a cruise. It’s lightweight and perfect for staying warm during cool evenings on the balcony or as a blanket on a chilly flight. You can also choose from a ton of designs to suit your fashion taste.
Check out some of the fantastic designs of these Pashmina Shawls, as well as prices, delivery times, and sizes.
Smart luggage trackers: keep tabs on your bags
For iPhone users, the Apple AirTag is a great option. It works by using nearby iPhones to help locate your items, even if they’re far away, making it ideal for longer distances.
Android users can opt for devices like the Tile or Samsung Galaxy SmartTag, though it’s important to note that the Galaxy SmartTag has some limitations—it only works well at short range using Bluetooth. If you’re looking for longer-range tracking on Android, Tile might be a better option.
Learn everything you need to know about luggage tracking gadgets. This one is suitable for iOS Apple devices and this one is best for Android devices.
Insulated Coffee Mug
An insulated coffee mug keeps your coffee hot or water cold while lounging on deck or during excursions. It’s a convenient way to bring hot beverages back to your room. It’s also great for early morning shore excursions.
Other Unusual Items to Pack in Cruise Luggage
Here is a list of other items useful for cruises that you could pick up at your local store:
Duct tape: Useful to identify or quickly repair luggage. One cruiser uses it to repair clothes by sticking over the rip on the inside of clothing.
Thank you cards: Spread the love by writing thank-you notes to cabin stewards and other crew members who made the cruise special.
Lint rollers: Keep up appearances and clothes lint-free for special occasions.
Ziploc bags: Ideal for packing wet swimwear, storing food items in refrigerators, and organizing toiletries.
Protein or granola bars: Perfect for quick and convenient snacks on shore excursions.
Highlighter: Use to keep track of events on the daily schedule or essential information on excursion tickets.
Shower caps: Few cruise lines have complimentary shower caps in standard bathrooms.
Favorite tea or coffee: Never miss your favorite tea or coffee when you’re at sea.
Luggage tag holders: Keep cruise tags safe and prevent tearing or damage.
Mini air freshener: Ideal to keep cabins smelling fresh, especially if you don’t have a balcony cabin.
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