Before heading out on your next cruise, you'll want to make sure you are prepared with everything you need. While things like toiletries and clothing are essential, there are other items that, although not quite so important, can significantly enhance your experience. This post contains some of the must-haves I bring on my cruises.
Some of these items may not be applicable to every cruise line or to every cruiser. Be sure to check the descriptions before making a purchase. Additionally, if you don't cruise frequently, it may not be worth buying these items solely for convenience, although most of them can be used beyond cruising.
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. A purchase through one of these links may result in a commission paid to us at no additional cost to you. All opinions are my own. All of these shopping links in this post are to Amazon.
Cruise Must-Haves from Amazon
Luggage Tags/Holders
Checking bags for your cruise? Once you arrive at the port, you'll hand those off to a porter. However, before you do, you'll need to affix luggage tags to the bags to ensure they are delivered to the correct ship/stateroom.
Every cruise line handles this differently. While Disney Cruise Line ships them directly to your home, Royal Caribbean, MSC, and Celebrity provide PDFs that you print out and add to your bag. Putting them in tag holders can keep them more secure.
We own these plastic luggage tag holders, specifically designed for the tags provided by Royal Caribbean and Celebrity. Other options are available on Amazon, including those made for the Norwegian cruise line. When I sailed with MSC, they specifically requested that plastic holders not be used. Please check with your cruise line before purchasing to ensure you receive the correct size and that they are compatible.
In addition to these tags, ensure that you have your own identification on your bags. This is essential in case the cruise line's tag falls off. I like these because they have a privacy flap over your identifying information.
Charging Cords
You're likely to have a lot of things to plug in, and while newer cruise ships have many more outlets throughout the staterooms, it still may not be enough. Additionally, power strips and surge protectors are typically not permitted and may be confiscated.
One option is a charging pad, which can be used for an Apple watch, iPhone, and AirPods. It comes in several colors. Another option is this four-in-one, which includes a Type-C cable and Apple Watch charger. Check for compatibility before purchasing.
Reusable Water Bottle
I drink a lot of water, especially when I travel. A reusable water bottle is a great way to ensure you always have water at hand. Many cruise lines have refill stations for water bottles, so having one can help save money since you won't have to purchase bottled water.
Of course, a nice reusable bottle is also useful for your flight (fill up after security) and at home. My two favorite brands for gifts are Corksicle and Hydro Flasks. There are many different patterns and colors available, and be sure to choose one with a cover.
Travel Wallet/Passport Holder
Cruisers typically have to carry their passports and other travel documentation to present at the port, both when boarding and upon return. A nice travel wallet or passport holder can keep everything organized.
I prefer to carry a larger travel wallet rather than a holder for a single passport. That way, I can hold other items, such as cruise documentation, multiple passports, a Global Entry card, and boarding passes.
This leather wallet from Amazon is great for a family because it can hold several passports as well as other essential documentation. This one comes in several different leather colors.
Packing Cubes
I recommend using packing cubes for all travel, not just cruising. They can help keep your outfits organized, both in your suitcase and at your destination, and can be helpful in compressing clothes (depending on the type you purchase).
I especially like taking packing cubes on cruises because the storage space in your cruise cabin may vary. Some ships, like the Disney Wish, have very open shelves, and packing cubes can keep things neat and organized.
When purchasing packing cubes, you'll find a variety of colors and styles. I recommend getting a different color for every family member so you'll know what belongs to each person immediately after opening the suitcase.
This set is available in a variety of colors.
Beach Bag
Traveling on a cruise in warm weather? You'll need a beach bag, which can be used for pool days, beach days, and even as a cruise day bag and flight carry-on bag. Like lots of other items on this list, a beach bag's use will go well beyond your cruise.
My favorite beach bag is from the Aloha Collection. It has a full zipped top, which helps keep sand and water out. It packs small in a checked bag or can be used as a carry-on bag. The Aloha Collection is sold in many stores, including Amazon.
Toiletry Bags
Cruise cabins are notoriously small. I like to have a hanging toiletry bag that I can bring in and out of the bathroom as I need it. Most bathrooms have a towel hook from which you can hang it.
I like the Vera Bradley hanging toiletry bag, which can be folded up and then unfolded and hung. I keep it stocked with toiletries and makeup for travel, as I travel frequently. It's sold in a variety of different patterns and colors. If you decide to keep the bag stored with toiletries between trips, remember to review everything to check expiration dates and the remaining quantity.
Wrinkle Spray
Despite your best efforts at packing, you may still find that your clothes are a bit wrinkled. Using a wrinkle spray is usually your best option. Cruise lines don't allow irons in the rooms, and most don't have an onboard ironing room (Disney Cruise Line is an exception).
This pack of wrinkle spray comes with three bottles, so you'll have spares for future trips.
Mini Hairdryer
Cruise staterooms typically include a hairdryer, but it may not be the type you are looking for. Because I usually want to dry my wavy hair straight, I bought this travel round hairdryer - it's small and easy to pack. I generally pack it for all of my trips, not just cruises.
Mini Diffuser Dryer
When I travel to humid climates, I skip drying my hair straight and instead embrace my curls. Because I'm never sure what type of hairdryer will be at my destination, I pack this travel diffuser dryer. It works really well and isn't too big for travel.
Mini Fan
If you are cruising to a warm-weather destination and planning to go on excursions, you may find it very hot. I love these little rechargeable travel fans, which fold up and are very easy to pack. As a bonus, this one also functions as a portable power bank. Find it on Amazon.
Leave a Reply