10 Cruise Hacks & Things to Pack for a Smoother Sailing

Categories

Cruise vacations are designed for relaxation—but the difference between a good cruise and a great one often comes down to the little things.

 

1. Bring a Magnetic Hook Set

Cruise ship cabin walls are metal, and magnetic hooks are a game-changer. We use them to hang hats, wet swimsuits, bags, or lanyards and instantly expand your storage space without cluttering up your room.

 

2. Pack a Cruise-Approved Power Strip

Most cruise cabins have just one or two outlets—definitely not enough for phones, tablets, hair tools, etc. Bring a non-surge-protected power strip or USB hub. Make sure it’s cruise-approved (no surge protectors or extension cords with breakers allowed).  For Royal Caribbean, multi-plug outlets are not allowed.  We take a USB hub like this one with us:  https://a.co/d/3Olg29f

 

3. Use a Lanyard for Your Key Card

Your room key doubles as your ID, credit card, and boarding pass on the ship. A waterproof lanyard with a pouch keeps it handy and secure while freeing up your hands. It’s especially helpful when you’re wearing swimsuits or don’t have pockets.

 

4. Pack a Stanley or Yeti for Water

Water stations are everywhere on board, but cups can be small and wasteful. Bring an insulated bottle or tumbler and fill it up throughout the day. It’ll keep your drink cold by the pool and help you stay hydrated at sea and on excursions. It’s also great at night to have water in your stateroom.

 

5. Bring a Small First Aid Kit

You don’t want to visit the ship’s medical center for a simple blister or headache. Pack upset stomach meds, band-aids, antibiotic ointment, motion sickness remedies, and seasickness bands or patches. Better safe than sorry!

 

6. Use Over-the-Door Organizers

A hanging shoe organizer or toiletry caddy is perfect for keeping sunscreen, hair brushes, meds, sunglasses, and other essentials organized. Hang it over the bathroom door and you’ll save counter space.

 

7. Pack a Foldable Tote or Backpack

A lightweight fold-up bag is perfect for shore excursions, beach days, or bringing back souvenirs. It takes up hardly any space in your suitcase but comes in handy again and again.

 

8. Pack a Compact Pair of Binoculars

Whether you’re sailing past glaciers in Alaska, spotting islands in the Caribbean, or watching dolphins from your balcony, a small set of binoculars adds a whole new layer to your cruise experience. They’re especially handy during scenic sail-ins, wildlife sightings, and port arrivals. You’ll be surprised how often you use them.

 

9. Bring a Small Personal Fan

Cruise cabins can feel stuffy, especially on warmer sailings or if you’re in an interior room. A compact, battery-operated or USB-powered fan can make a huge difference in comfort. It’s great for airflow while sleeping, cooling off after a day in the sun, or adding white noise at night.  There are many to choose from, and we have been very happy with these fans:  https://a.co/d/91CdmiW

 

9. Use Ziplock Bags for Everything

Pack a variety of sizes. Use them to keep snacks, protect electronics on excursions, store wet swimsuits, organize jewelry, or pack toiletries without spills. They’re the unsung hero of any cruise carry-on.

 

10. Don’t Forget a Nightlight or Motion Sensor Light

Cabins without balconies can be pitch dark at night. A small battery-powered nightlight or motion-sensor puck light makes nighttime trips to the bathroom much easier—and saves your shins from finding furniture in the dark.  We use this one

 

Bonus Tip:

Make a “cruise bin” at home with your go-to items like lanyards, hooks, door organizers, and travel-sized containers. You’ll be ready to pack for your next trip in minutes.

 

With these clever hacks and handy items, you’ll cruise smarter—not harder.