Even though I am a lover of cruising, until recently, the last time I was on a cruise was in September 2018 with my mom. And then somehow, I ended up on 3 cruises within a 5-month span. Crazy right? A Disney cruise for work, a Royal Caribbean cruise over Christmas with my mom, and then a Norwegian cruise with a group of 14 people.
Cruises are the ultimate vacation in my mind – sun, sea, and endless entertainment. But packing for one can be a bit of a puzzle. Beyond the swimsuits and formal wear, there are those little things that can make a HUGE difference in your onboard experience. Here are 7 must-pack items that often get overlooked, but will elevate your next cruise to a whole new level of comfort and convenience.
1. Magnetic Hooks: Your Cabin’s New Best Friend
Cruise ship cabins, while cozy, can lack storage. Enter magnetic hooks! The walls are typically metal, making these little wonders incredibly useful. Hang your hats, lanyards, light jackets, or your PJs. They keep things off the limited counter space and make your cabin feel more organized. Trust me, you’ll wonder how you cruised without them.
2. Hydration Hero: Your Reusable Water Bottle/Stanley Cup
Staying hydrated on a cruise is crucial, especially in warm climates (or if you have the unlimited drink package). Ditch the disposable cups and bring your own reusable water bottle or Stanley Cup. Fill it up at the drink stations and enjoy refreshing water throughout the day. It’s eco-friendly, budget-friendly, and keeps you feeling your best.
3. Sun Protection and Style: Your Trusty Hat
Protect yourself from the sun’s rays with a stylish hat. Whether you prefer a wide-brimmed sun hat or a sporty baseball cap, it’s essential for shore excursions, pool days, and lounging on the deck. Plus, it adds a touch of flair to your cruise wardrobe.
4. Navigate the Night: A Compact Night Light
Cruise ship cabins can get pitch-black at night, which I absolutely love, but it can make midnight bathroom runs a bit of an adventure. A small night light provides just enough illumination to navigate your cabin without disturbing your sleep or your cabin mates. It’s a simple addition that makes a big difference.
5. Shore Excursion Savior: An Extra Bag
Whether you’re heading to the beach, exploring a historic town, or embarking on an adventurous excursion, an extra bag is a must-have. A lightweight, foldable tote or backpack is perfect for carrying your essentials: sunscreen, towels, souvenirs, and anything else you might need. It also doubles as a great pool bag or a way to get souvenirs that you purchase on your trip home.
6. Combat the Chill: A Light Sweater or Jacket
Even on cruises to warm destinations, the air conditioning can be quite powerful, especially in theaters and dining rooms on the ship. And evenings at sea can get breezy. Pack a light sweater, jacket, or cardigan to stay comfortable and cozy, no matter the temperature.
Our last cruise was in January and while it was really nice and sunny most days, I was happy to have my light jacket at night. It kept me from getting cold when we walked around the ship, inside and out, plus gave me a place to stash my phone and not have to have my purse.
7. Organize Your Laundry: A Collapsible Hamper
Keep your cabin tidy and organized with a small, collapsible hamper or laundry bag. It prevents dirty clothes from piling up and makes packing for your return trip a breeze. Choose a lightweight, foldable option that takes up minimal space in your luggage.
TIP: If you don’t have a collapsible hamper/laundry bag and don’t want to buy one, you can just put a small kitchen trashbag in your suitcase to use for your dirty laundry.
By packing these seven often-overlooked items, you’ll be prepared for anything your cruise throws your way. You can focus on relaxing, exploring, and creating unforgettable memories. Happy cruising!
