Cruise newbies often show up with three swimsuits and no clue what they’ll actually need. Meanwhile, seasoned cruisers have their bags down to a science. From odd little gadgets to smart comfort upgrades, there are a few items that make all the difference once you’re onboard.
These aren’t luxury extras—they’re things that save time, stress, and space in your cabin. Here’s a list of 16 smart things veteran cruisers always pack (and wish they’d brought even sooner).
Magnetic Hooks
Cruise cabin walls are made of metal, so magnetic hooks instantly add extra storage. You can hang up wet swimsuits, sunhats, or even your cruise keycard lanyard. It’s a simple fix for rooms that never seem to have enough hangers or shelves.
They don’t take up space in your luggage, either. For something so small, they make life onboard noticeably easier.
Power Strip (Cruise-Approved)
Outlets are limited, and charging more than two devices at once is nearly impossible without help. A cruise-approved power strip (with no surge protection) solves that fast. It keeps your phone, camera, and e-reader topped up without fighting for space.
Just make sure it’s allowed on your ship—some lines confiscate the wrong kind. Veterans know to double-check before packing it.
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Over-the-Door Organizer
Cabin counters get cluttered fast, especially with toiletries, sunscreen, and random chargers. A hanging organizer over the bathroom door keeps everything visible and easy to grab. You’ll spend less time digging through bags and more time enjoying your day.
Cruise regulars swear by this in families or shared cabins. It basically adds an extra shelf to your cabin without using any floor space.
Refillable Water Bottle
Staying hydrated is harder than it seems when you’re walking all day and sunbathing in humid heat. Most ships have water stations, but cups are small and you’ll refill them nonstop. A reusable bottle keeps things easier (and colder) between ports and pool time.
It also cuts down on waste, which frequent cruisers appreciate. Bonus: it’s handy during shore excursions where water access isn’t guaranteed.
Small First Aid Kit
You don’t need a full pharmacy—but cruise pros always pack basics like painkillers, motion sickness tablets, and bandages. Ship stores mark up prices, and shore stops may not have what you need. Whether it’s a stubbed toe or sunburn, being ready means less stress and faster relief.
It’s one of those things you only miss when you don’t have it. A few small packets can save your whole day.
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Waterproof Phone Pouch
Shore excursions often include boats, beaches, or surprise rain—and phones don’t mix well with any of that. A waterproof pouch lets you take photos without worrying about damage. Some even float, which is handy if you drop your phone while kayaking or snorkeling.
Cruise veterans bring this even if they don’t plan on getting wet—it’s just good peace of mind. It’s also great for keeping sand out during beach stops.
Highlighter or Pen
Daily cruise schedules can be long and packed with options. Seasoned cruisers use a pen or highlighter to mark activities they don’t want to miss. It sounds basic, but it helps you plan your day and avoid wandering. Ship apps are great—but paper schedules won’t crash or need charging.
Having a pen handy also helps when filling out customs forms or excursion slips.
Portable Fan
Cruise cabins don’t always have the best airflow, especially in interior rooms. A small battery-powered fan helps with stuffy air and improves sleep in noisy areas. Veterans who’ve had one night of tossing and turning never cruise without it again. Some even use it to dry clothes or circulate scents from travel-sized air fresheners.
It’s lightweight, quiet, and makes the cabin feel way more comfortable.
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Sea Bands or Ginger Chews
Even if you’re not usually seasick, one rocky day at sea can throw you off. Cruise pros pack motion sickness aids just in case—it’s better to have them than suffer through dinner swaying in your chair. Sea bands use pressure points, while ginger chews offer natural relief with no drowsiness.
Everyone reacts differently, so it helps to have a few options ready. You’ll thank yourself during that choppy stretch of open water.
Ziplock Bags
Veteran cruisers know that Ziplocks aren’t just for snacks. They’re great for storing wet swimsuits, organizing chargers, or protecting your phone from sand. Use them for leftover snacks during shore excursions or for separating dirty clothes.
They don’t take up space, but they come in handy almost daily. It’s one of those “why didn’t I pack more?” items.
Lanyard with ID Holder
Key cards are your ID, room key, and credit card all in one while on board. A lanyard lets you wear it without worrying about pockets or misplacing it at the buffet. Many cruise pros get ones with waterproof sleeves for added protection.
It sounds dorky—but it’s surprisingly useful. You’ll see most passengers wearing one by day two.
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Lightweight Jacket or Wrap
Even on warm-weather cruises, nights on deck can get breezy fast. Air-conditioned dining rooms can feel freezing, too, especially after a day in the sun. Seasoned cruisers bring a compact layer that works for both situations.
It keeps you warm without taking up much space in your suitcase. You’ll end up using it more than you expect.
Laundry Bag
Cruise cabins are tight—and dirty clothes pile up quickly. A mesh laundry bag helps keep everything separate without stuffing it all into a suitcase. It’s also useful for lugging clothes to the self-serve laundry area or sorting things when you pack to go home.
Frequent cruisers know the difference between chaos and calm often starts with organization. This one helps keep the cabin from feeling like a clothing explosion.
Sunscreen (Lots of It)
Ship stores charge double for sunscreen, and you’ll need more than you think. Veteran cruisers bring enough for every day, especially with long hours on deck or at port. Don’t rely on a tiny travel-size tube—it won’t last through snorkeling, beach time, and poolside lounging.
Reef-safe options are best, especially in eco-sensitive destinations. Sunburn ruins more trips than you’d believe.
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Small Nightlight
Cruise cabins—especially interior ones—get pitch dark at night. A plug-in or battery-powered nightlight helps you avoid stubbed toes or fumbling around half-asleep. It’s a game-changer if you’re sharing a room and don’t want to wake others.
Veterans also use it for middle-of-the-night bathroom trips without turning on overhead lights. It’s a small touch that makes the space feel more livable.
Day Bag or Sling Backpack
You won’t want to carry a full backpack around the ship or during shore excursions. A small crossbody or sling bag fits sunscreen, water, ID, and a snack without being bulky.
Cruise veterans pick lightweight ones that fold up when not in use. It’s perfect for port days, beach runs, or just heading to the pool deck. You’ll reach for it more often than you expect.
Little Items, Big Payoff
Cruise veterans don’t pack more—they just pack smarter. These simple extras might seem minor, but they help every part of the trip go more smoothly. When your room stays organized, your gear stays dry, and your skin stays unburned, it all adds up to a better vacation.
These aren’t just packing hacks—they’re the kind of habits built from experience. And once you try them, you probably won’t travel without them again.
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