15 Things to Pack for a Cruise
(Plus One Controversial Thing I Always Pack)
If there’s anything I’ve learned from cruising, it’s that suitcase space is limited and what I think I should pack for a cruise is always too much. If you’re like me, you always end up packing way too many outfit options when you should be saving room for the more useful items like water shoes or chair clips. So, whether you’re a first-time cruiser or someone who just needs a good ole refresher on what to pack, I highly recommend checking out my list of must-haves below!
1. Magnetic Hooks
I can’t even remember the last time we cruised without bringing magnetic hooks along. They are by far one of the most useful items you can pack for a cruise, and the best part – they take up next to no room in your luggage! They are great because cabin walls are magnetic, so you just put them on your wall, and now you have a great way to hang your key card or sweatshirt.
2. Pop-Up Hamper
Until my last cruise with my husband, I hadn’t brought a pop-up hamper, but honestly, I found it super useful. We were able to put it in the corner of the room and toss in dirty clothes as needed. Of course, you can just toss your dirty clothes straight into your suitcase, but I found it more convenient than having to pull out the luggage every time I changed.
3. Bags
More than just a suitcase, you will definitely want to bring something along that is convenient to carry around the ship. For me, this usually means a small tote where I can keep my phone, sunglasses, and other essentials while I’m out. Once I go out when docked, I generally like to carry a backpack or drawstring bag so I can make sure that I have water and more security if I’m bringing money along.
4. Eyewear
Of course, don’t forget your prescription glasses. But even more than that, don’t forget sunglasses! I always bring along my favorite pair for lounging and walking around at the port. If you want a pro tip, I highly recommend buying a cheap pair that you won’t miss if something happens to them. On one vacation, I took a volleyball to the face, and I had to go without sunglasses for the next day before we left.
5. Waterproof Phone Holder
Although this isn’t something I generally bring on a cruise, I know it is extremely popular among people who love being in the water. You can find all types of waterproof pouches on Amazon that are perfect for holding your phone and even your cabin card.
6. Power strip
If you’ve ever been on a cruise, you understand the scarcity of outlets. Some of these cabins were obviously thought out by an architect who only ever charges one device at a time. Definitely look into power strips to help open up some outlet space, but remember to check with the cruise line you’re sailing with, as many have restrictions on power strips with surge protectors. Also, keep in mind that some cruise lines, like MSC, have both American and European outlets, so you may want to consider a converter.
7. Over-The-Door Organizer
I pack a lot of shoes; it’s just something my husband has come to terms with. So, for someone like me, an over-the-door organizer is extremely beneficial. They also have organizers with larger pouches for clothing. Plus, if you get metal hooks that can bear enough weight, they are the perfect way to attach your organizer to the wall.
8. Chair Towel Clips
Trust me on this one if you’re going to be spending time lounging by the pool. The last thing you want is for a gust of wind to steal your towel while you’re in the pool because pool chairs are already a hot commodity. And even if you’re sitting on your chair, these clips are awesome because you don’t have to worry about the constant struggle of a sliding towel.
9. Water Shoes
My water shoes have been all over the Caribbean by now. I love them for snorkeling, just to make sure my feet are protected when I have to touch down in the water. Even if you aren’t planning on snorkeling, I would definitely recommend checking out the beaches you will be visiting, because some are rocky, which means you will definitely want to consider getting a pair of shoes you can wear in the water!
10. Mesh Water Bag
I am a big fan of my mesh bags for when we go off the ship to the beach. They are great for water shoes, snorkeling gear, and pretty much anything that gets wet and sandy. The set I have came with three bags of different sizes, but once we start cruising with kids, I will definitely be getting more for sand toys!
11. Electrolyte Mixes
Before you keep scrolling because you don’t drink much or at all, trust me, this is for more than just a hangover. My husband doesn’t drink a lot, even on vacation, but we do spend a lot of time in the sun. We usually drink one bottle of water with an electrolyte mix per day to ensure we stay hydrated on vacation. I highly recommend the brands Lment or Cure, which are both tasty and available on Amazon.
12. AirTags
Obviously, this is more of a hack for Apple users, but still, it’s a good one to consider if you can. Losing luggage isn’t a common occurrence on a cruise ship, but it also isn’t a myth. If you put AirTags in your suitcase, at least you’ll be able to track where they are.
13. Reusable Water Bottle
I generally always bring my own water bottle. With many drink packages, bottled water is included, so it isn’t completely necessary. For me, it’s more of a convenience thing for when I’m in the cabin or getting off the ship. Of course, if you don’t have a drink package, this is an even more important item to bring along.
14. Magnetic Clothesline
While some cruise lines have a clothesline ready to use in the shower, others do not. You can find magnetic clotheslines on Amazon. They are great for hanging up swimsuits or any other wet clothing you may accumulate. Even if you do have a clothesline in the shower, some people prefer to hang their items up outside the bathroom.
15. Nightlight
Your cabin is going to get pretty dark at night, and if you have an inside cabin, it can just be dark period. Many cruisers have started bringing LED magnetic night lights. These are super useful if you need to get up in the middle of the night or when you go into your room in the dark.
Bonus – Dollar Bills
Collect your singles and get ready to tip! One thing I see asked over and over in cruise forums is “Should I tip the bartenders since I’m already paying gratuities on my drink package?” My short answer? Absolutely!
Bartenders love those who are generous and tip; that’s just the way it works. In my experience, tipping a dollar when you get a drink helps bartenders remember you and leads to better service. Last cruise, there was a bartender who made us protein shakes every morning, and I would tip him more than a dollar because it was something no one else asked for, but he always made them with a smile.
Do you have to tip every time? Of course not. Do you even have to do this at all? No, it’s all up to you and what you feel comfortable with. At the end of the day, I really appreciate good service, and I feel that it deserves to be rewarded. items up outside the bathroom.
Conclusion
Packing is only stressful if you let it be. This is by no means the most comprehensive packing list out there, and it’s certainly not something to live or die by. But as someone who’s been on over a dozen cruises, I have definitely accumulated some useful packing tips.
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