30 Helpful Cruise Organization Tips for Cruisers
If you’re going on a cruise, you’ve probably heard by now cabins are pretty compact. As a matter of fact, an inside cabin will likely be about half the size of an average hotel room. Even ocean view and balcony cabins can be tight on space.
If you’re cruising in a suite, it’s unlikely that you’ll need these cabin hacks to save space, however you may appreciate the cabin organization tips just the same.
One thing I’ve always liked about cruise ship cabins, is that they’re laid out pretty efficiently. Despite their small size, there are a lot of small spaces that can be put to good use for storage.
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Cruise Tips and Cabin Hacks for 2023
Over the years, we’ve become savvy cruisers, and have picked up some great cruise tips from articles, videos and other cruisers.
In this post I’ll share with you what works for us today, as well as what some great tips that other cruisers have been kind enough to share!
Keeping a cruise ship cabin organized (for a couple or a family)
Whether you are 2 in a cabin, or 4 (or on rare occasions 5), there are ways to keep your cabin space organized and feeling as “spacious” as possible.
Short Anecdote:
I hear some people say that cabins are so small, that you could NEVER fit a family of four in them. However I disagree – because we’ve done it.
For years when our children were young, we booked inside cabins for 4. This meant the children slept in bunk beds above us.
It really wasn’t bad during the day, as our cabin steward would tuck those pullman beds into the wall or ceiling. Out of sight until after dinner, he would turn down the beds before we arrived back in our cabins later at night.
While we were cozy, we still had enough room, but we needed to be organized!
By the way, if we ever thought of complaining, I reminded us all that many people go camping and all stay in one tent. An inside cabin on a luxurious cruise ship is infinitely better!
Tips on How to Organize Your Cruise Ship Cabin
In order to have an organized and efficient cruise cabin, you’ll want to be prepared with a few things you bring from home that you buy from Amazon or your preferred store. However, there’s more to using your stateroom space well than buying a few gadgets. I’ll go through tips that we personally have used that have been an immense help.
1. Pack light but realistic
This is easier said than done, and being honest with you I’m an over-packer who is making minimal improvements with each cruise. Try to bring only what you’ll need by preparing outfits you’d like to wear for day and evening. Try things on and make sure you feel good in them. Add some swimwear and shoes and you’re set.
Do check on your cruise line’s dress code and suggestions in case there’s a formal or chic night.
Tip: Wear the tighter clothes on the first days (not even joking lol)
Read more: What To Wear on a Cruise Vacation (day, evening, formal nights)
2. Get extra hangers
Don’t bring these from home, as they just take up extra room in your luggage and why do that? When you arrive in your cabin, you’ll soon meet your room steward. After some introductions, ask for some extra hangers if you need any (I always do!).
It can be a space saver to hang as many items as you can. I often hang two sundresses on the same hanger if it’s just spaghetti straps.
3. Store luggage under your bed
First things first, as soon as you can, get everyone to unpack their luggage quickly the first day of the cruise. Then, as soon as this is done, tuck suitcases (sometimes one fits in another) under the bed. Often your cabin steward can even do this for you.
4. Packing cubes
Packing cubes really help to keep everything organized and can be a space and time saver. In fact, you can even keep some items in the cube (just unzip) and place the packing cube right on the shelf or in the drawer.
If you have kids, consider buying different color packing cubes for each member of the family.
If you want to keep organized by using packing cubes, this packing cube set comes in several colors (amazon link).
Read more: The Pros and Cons of Packing Cubes for Cruise Vacations
5. Use an over the door hanging organizer
This can be a huge space saver for all your personal products and more! Hang the over the door organizer on your bathroom door and free up limited space in the small cruise bathrooms with tiny shelves. It’s perfect for keeping sun lotion, after sun lotion, creams, medications, hair products and more.
Tip: Consider pre-packing this before you leave your house and placing it in your luggage. Imagine how quickly you can unpack on your cruise embarkation day!
Often considered a must-have cruise essential, you can find a good variety on Amazon, however I personally like THIS ONE (Over the Door Organizer) due to it’s mesh pockets rather than plastic
, and how durable it is.
You may even want to consider a Hanging Toiletry/Cosmetic Bag
, which will be useful on any type of travel.
6. Empty out your mini-fridge
Make space in your mini-fridge if you’ve brought on your own case of water bottles (check cruise line policy), as well as to put any milk containers the kids may take for later from the breakfast buffet. You may want to keep some wine in the fridge etc. Plus, no one will mistakenly grab something way too expensive!
Tip: Ask your room attendant to fill your ice bucket if you like that.
Related: What Food and Drinks Can You Bring on a Cruise? (snacks, water bottles, wine & more)
7. Clear up the cabin clutter you don’t need
When you arrive in your cabin, you will often find a few things on your counters or desk. If you’re not going to use them, stash them away. If you won’t need the ice bucket, wine glasses or other items, ask your cabin steward to remove them.
Some people ask the attendant to take away a small coffee table or even an extra chair that you just don’t need. Don’t be shy, they’ll remove those things for you and it will create more cabin space.
8. Turn your desk into a vanity
Ladies, this is for you. Turn the desk into a vanity. Use the side drawers for your make up, nail polish and other beauty items you have. I like to use another drawer for my hairbrushes and curling wand and my Elchim hairdryer (that I LOVE and bring everywhere).
9. Organizing your papers
Do keep papers that you need and want to refer to in a regular spot. If you’ve got tickets for shore excursions that you’ve printed out and other important papers, put them in a legal size envelope or a pocket folder that you bring from home. Then, when you’re on your cruise, you can stash away any important papers or even receipts in one spot. I like to bring a couple of extra envelopes as well and keep everything together.
You may prefer to use small magnet clips and keep tickets and other items hanging on the cabin wall (see next point).
**Looking for a printable cruise travel planner to keep organized? See what’s included in the 47 page Ultimate Cruise Planner
10. Magnetic hooks
*I haven’t brought these yet, but they are on my list for my next cruise. Cruise ship cabins usually have 2 hooks already in the cabin. Once we’ve hung bathrobes, we don’t have a good spot for hats and caps and even for a sweatshirt any of us may want to grab. If you saw my cabin, you’d notice we pile those items on a chair in the stateroom. Definitely not the best use of space.
Cabin walls are metal, so magnetic hooks are perfect. However they should be pretty heavy duty, so get some good ones for this. Amazon has some that are a big hook, and others that have a small clip.
*Update – we bought magnetic hooks and they were amazing!! I highly recommend!
We also now bring magnetic clips for papers to organize our papers, shore excursion tickets and event invitations and hang them right on our cabin wall!
Recommended: Magnet hooks
Recommended: Magnet clips
11. Pop up hampers
Very handy, keep a couple foldable material shoe boxes as pop up hampers and keep them under the desk or tucked on the closet floor. You may want to keep a second one to throw in your flip flops when you come in the cabin.
12. Mesh laundry bags
When you need to put dirty clothes away, a mesh laundry bag
is helpful. Just fill it up (from your hamper) and throw the laundry bag into your suitcase.
Recommended: Mesh foldable laundry hamper (see over 30,000 Amazon reviews here)
13. Clothes Pegs
If you’ve decided to wash a few small items or hang some bathing suits up on the little clothes line in the shower, you’ll want to have a few inexpensive clothes pegs handy. You can pick up a small package at the dollar store.
14. Extra electric outlets and USB’s
Perhaps the newest ships have accounted for this, but literally every cruise cabin I’ve had from inside to Balcony, has had 2-3 plugs if I was lucky! Nowadays, we just need more plugs for all our electronics and chargers. You may think you can bring a power par from home, but the ones with surge protectors are actually not allowed. It’s very important that you purchase one that is cruise approved (cruise ships will confiscate).
See my recommended: Cruise Power Strip with USB Outlets – Non Surge Protection & Ship Approved here.
15. Portable charger
A travel necessity is a portable charger or power bank.
This is the super fast portable charge I recommend: INIU Portable Charger – compatible with most phones (but do verify)
16. Portable speakers
Why not bring a portable speaker
to enjoy your very own cruise playlist? I’ve heard from people who make a great Sailaway soundtrack, which sounds like a lot of fun!
17. Cabin nightlight
Cabins are obviously quite dark at night, especially if you’re in an inside cabin.
So, here’s my very simple cabin hack. If you’re in an inside cabin, open the light in the bathroom and leave the door open just a sliver. It will add just enough light to the room so you don’t trip or stub your toe if you do need to get up during the night.
If you have a balcony, you can also pull the shades just a touch and let some moonlight in. We like natural light in the morning, so we often leave the curtains partially open to get that early light peeking in.
On a recent cruise, we used a battery operated motion sensor nightlight. This was a really useful cruise accessory!
Recommended: Motion sensor nightlight for cruise cabins (check price & Amazon reviews here)
18. Small cabin fan
This is something that some cruisers appreciate, however we’ve always found the cabins to be well air conditioned and haven’t needed an additional fan. If you like one and find small spaces hot and stuffy, consider bringing a small portable fan
(check reviews on Amazon) for your stateroom.
19. Store your valuables and personal items
Keep not only your good jewelry, wallet and cash in your safe – but also keep your passports and car or house keys. We realize we often have these with us when we travel, and to avoid searching for them at the end of the cruise, they simply go in the safe the very first cruise day.
20. Jewelry storage
If you have small items like earrings and pendants, a pill container that you can pick up at the dollar store is handy to keep organized. You can put everything in ahead of time and then have it ready when you need it.
Keeping Organized on a Cruise
21. Highlighter
Keeping organized for the ship’s activities can be a bit of a challenge. You’ll definitely want to go through the daily cruise planner (Cruise Compass, Freestyle Daily, Princess Patter, etc.) and plan for certain activities you really want to attend.
While you can also view this on the cruise line app (check availability with your cruise line), on your phone, I personally like planning ahead by looking through the paper daily planner.
Bring a highligher and this way you can highlight your favorite things and see them at a glance.
22. Dry erase board
Some people really like to use a dry erase board for messages and notes between family members, or to write down reminders. Consider if this will work for your family.
Over the last few years, we’ve been using the cruise ship messaging apps, so we really haven’t found a need for this, but if your kids are young, it may be practical for you.
23. Post-it notes
Who doesn’t love post-it notes? Honestly, I can always use a post it. This can be great to write a note to your cabin attendant and leave it on the mirror, or to write yourself a note and place it where you need it to be.
Video: Genius Space Saving Cruise Hacks
Want even more cruise cabin tips and hacks? I share more genius space saving tips in this YouTube video:
24. Reusable water bottles
While not exactly a cruise cabin hack, this is something really practical to have on your cruise. Perhaps buy different colored ones for each person in the cabin to keep organized, but definitely you’ll appreciate those portable bottles, especially when you get off the cruise ship.
Set of 4 in different colors – Sports Water Bottles (amazon link)
25. Thermal coffee mugs
Ahhhhhh coffee. Enough said 😉
Actually all joking aside, a quality thermal travel mug
is great to grab a big coffee and keep it hot for as long as you need. It can also be used for a cold drink later on if you like.
26. Ziplock bags
Ziplock baggies are so useful. They can keep your passports dry if you need to take them with you at a cruise port. You may want to put a few bandaids in a ziplock and throw it in your beach bag. You get the idea. Just bring a few, you never know.
Getting ready for shore excursions
27. Towels
Don’t bring any towels from home, as your cruise ship will provide them. And, you can even take them off the ship for excursions and beach days while you’re in a cruise port.
Tip: We like to prepare the day before by getting towels from the pool deck and placing them in a beach bag we use. Along with that, we throw in our sun tan lotion and sunscreen and we’re all ready when we get to our port of call the next morning. *Note, some cruiselines leave pool towels in your cabin, while many will not, so plan for this.
28. Beach bag or backpack
To keep organized, which really saves space in your cabin, consider bringing a good zipped beach bag and/or a knapsack. Hang it on one of your heavy duty magnetic hooks
, and leave it there until you need it for shore excursion days. We try and pre-pack the night before, so it makes mornings easier.
29. Towel Clips
I’m so in love with my towel clips. The cruise ship deck is windy, and towels tend to fall down and even fly away a bit.
For years I saw others with them and just didn’t get around to buying them. Then I secretly envied my fellow shipmates and their adorable and practical towel clips. Finally I have them and we put them to good use on our last cruise!
You can get towel clips to suit your personality like flamingos or parrots or margaritas, or you can get a simple and colorful set as well.
Recommended: Set of towel clips
If you prefer to pack lighter, a great alternative to towel clips are towel bands. They are practical and lightweight, and don’t take up much space at all!
Recommended: Towel Bands (see price & reviews on Amazon here)
Decorating your cabin door
30. Decorative magnets
On some cruise lines, decorating your cabin door is a bit of a thing. I have to say, we just haven’t done this.
However, it’s always fun to see the doors that are decorated. So if you’re in the mood or celebrating a special occasion, definitely bring some fun magnets and other items to decorate and personalize your cabin door. Something fun I saw on our last cruise, was a door decorated with those scrabble style letter magnets. People were forming words – it was pretty cute.
A bit of a random fun fact I discovered recently, decorating your cabin door with pineapples has meaning, so proceed with caution. Just google it. If it made you smile or laugh let me know with a haha in the comments below :-).
Read more: Cruise Cabin Door Decorations: The Ultimate Guide for Cruisers
**Looking for a printable cruise travel planner to keep organized? See what’s included in the 47 page Ultimate Cruise Planner
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Recap: Cruise Cabin Hacks Every Cruiser Should Know
Keep in mind that although cruise cabins are small, they can also be organized and efficient. Not all cruise tips or organization products will be for you, but pick and choose the things you can do that will make your life just a bit easier while on vacation.
If there’s anything to keep in mind, it’s definitely planning for plugs and USB’s by bringing along a cruise-approved power strip (with USB). Check current pricing Check current price HERE.
What tips do you have? Please let me know in the comments below, and I may just add them to this post. Any products you love or really didn’t need at all?
Happy Cruising!
Ilana
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This was very helpful to me as we are first time cruisers!! Thank you for all of your info!!!
Author
Hi Tracie,
That`s so exciting!! I`m glad the post was helpful to you as you plan your cruise.
Thanks for taking the time to leave a comment. Have a wonderful time!!
Ilana
Ha ha on the pineapple… didn’t know that! Thanks for sharing your info.
Author
Lol, right? Thanks for taking the time to comment Brendah 🙂
Hahaha, I’m not into the lifestyle, but now all I will notice are pineapples 😂
Author
Haha, I know! I can’t drink from my plastic pineapple glasses anymore without thinking of this – they say “Party like a pineapple” LOL
Love these. For those adults that bring their own adult beverages: drink only in your cabin, otherwise you may be charged an uncorking fee in public areas. Of purchasing adult beverages onboard, it is a better bargain to get the drink of the day if offered.
Author
Thanks Jennifer for the tips. We’ve found that we’ve been able to bring a glass of wine to various areas of the ship, without issue. However, we have been charged a corkage fee when bringing the whole bottle to the MDR.
Thank you..
I found the magnet trick didn’t work. Our doors were not magnetic. I use large suction cup hooks on my RV outside to hang towels and suits. These work pretty good in the ship cabin too. Command hooks work good too.
Author
That’s a great one! Thanks for sharing 🙂
I use battery operated tea lights or votives in the bathroom as night
lights. They are bright enough that there’s no need to turn on the overhead light.
Author
That’s a super idea Joyce! Thanks for sharing that tip!
Haha on the pineapple…good to know, lol
Author
lol, who knew, right?
Read someplace else- magnet weight load is the weight needed to pull it off the wall. I found hanging heavy stuff caused it to slide down the wall. Suggested to put the hook on the ceiling then they will stay put.
Author
That’s a great idea Christine,especially if people are hanging stuff heavier than a sweater or cap. Thanks for sharing it!
Ilana
It may sound kind of cheap but the compartmentalized containers the scented wax or scentsy comes in makes a great jewelry organizer. Found a great Pinterest tip to use baking soda and olive oil to get the sticky off after the label is removed. The scent remains and it also freshens drawers.
Author
I love those “thrifty” tips. Smart idea – thanks for sharing!!
Love all of these ideas – we used almost every one of these items on our first cruise. One word of warning though – not all cruise ships allow the over the door organizers. Disney Cruises will not allow them and if you use one and scratch the doors, you can be fined.
Author
Hi Melissa,
Glad you used these tips on your first cruise and found them helpful. Thanks for the tip about Disney cruises. I know most cruise lines allow it, but good to know for Disney cruisers!!
Thanks for taking the time to leave a comment.
Ilana
Couldn’t you just put a hand towel over the door and then the hanger?? No scratches….and extra storage.
Author
I guess you can, however I’m thinking if a cruise line doesn’t allow it, the cabin attendant may ask you to remove it. All the cruises I’ve been on, we’ve been able to have one, so we’ve been lucky so far.
Another way to use it though is to hang large metal hooks from the ceiling against the wall, then hang it there. I’ve heard of others doing this.
Thanks for the comment!
Ilana
I used mine, and brought ribbon that I ran through the grommets, tied in a bow and hung it the hook that was on the back of the door. It can also be used this way hung in a closet on a hanger this way and used for socks, underwear, kids clothes, ets.
Author
That’s smart! Great tips! Thanks Kim
Amazon has some cool double sided ones on hangers that you can hang in the closet.
Author
Great to know Kristina – thanks so much!
Ilana
You could use ribbon to tie 2 together and slide it over the door for Disney ships… one in the bathroom and one in the actual room… more space, no damage.
Author
Great tip! Thanks Joanna
you can use them on Disney cruises, you just can’t use the hooks. last cruise I used a bungee cord to hang it up on 2 wall hooks and it worked great, just FYI
Author
That’s interesting. Thanks for the info and suggestion!
HI, we sew elastic in the top two corners and then hang that over the corners of the doors.
Author
OMG Amanda – this is one of the very best cruise hacks I’ve ever heard. Love it!!
Thanks so much for sharing,
Ilana
Cover the hook part with felt so it doesn’t scratch
Author
Great idea! Thanks so much Linda!
Ilana
HAHA!!!!! I just learned about that pineapple thing too…..I have a secret plan to put a pineapple solar light at my sister’s mailbox when we are there for Memorial Weekend…..tee hee….Can’t wait to see what happens, or if she even notices!!
Author
You made me laugh this morning!!! I almost spit out my coffee lol!
Let me know… hahahaha!
Have a great cruise!!
Just read what the pineapple stands for! We used them to let people know they were welcome in our homes. Wont ever be using these again!
Author
Lol Belinda!! Keep using them – your friends can now get a laugh.
Thanks for the fun comment (still laughing)
As a pineapple friendly person myself, a right side up pineapple means friendship while a pineapple turned upside down means…. Well, a little more friendly 😉 haha
It only means *that* if it’s upside down!!!
Author
Lol, yes
Regarding night lights… they make tea lights that only illuminate when they are in water, so we used those. Fill a glass with about an inch of water, drop in the floating light and you have the perfect night light. No need to plug it in and use those precious spots on your extension cord. In the morning take it out. Ours lasted about 3 nights before dying out.
Author
That’s genius!! Thanks for sharing that smart hack Nansie!
Ilana
My cruise jewelry box is an old spring-hinged prescription eyeglasses case. They are usually fabric lined and sturdy, so jewelry won’t get crushed, and open like a little display-tray. To keep necklaces from tangling, I cut plastic drinking straws to fit the case, thread the chain through the straw and either clasp the necklace, or slip the pendant through the loop of chain at the end.
Author
Great tips Lisa! That straw trick is incredibly smart.
Thanks so much for sharing!
Ilana
Another straw trick is to bring your own reusable straws!! Nothing worse than drinking a pina colada with a paper straw lol
Author
Agreed! So mushy after 5 minutes lol!
Never heard about the pineapples!! HA HA….. thanks for letting me know!!!
Author
Hi Nancy,
I laughed also when I found out! Good to know, right? Lol
Have a great cruise!!
Ilana
If you are taking drink bottles, take a small collapsible funnel to fill them up – on most of the cruise ships, you have to fill a glass, then use that to fill your bottle, meaning it can get rather damp around the drink stations!
Author
Thanks Kathryn for that super smart tip! I never thought of that, but you’re so right!
I save fridge magnets, the ones generally used as advertisements that are large and flat. I bring them along to contain the daily happenings or other pieces of paper so the desk area is clear. We are seasoned cruisers and always love reading others tips and tricks.
Author
Hi Karen,
What a smart idea! I love it. I’m the same, I love learning the little tips and tricks from other cruisers!
Thanks for taking the time to leave a comment!
Ilana
I always bring a few gallon size ziplock bags! They are great for water socks or swimsuits that may be wet or sandy when it’s time to disembark! They’re also handy for packing granola bars and other snacks for excursion days!
Author
Very smart tips Lisa! Ziplocks should be a cruise staple item lol. Thanks for sharing.
Ilana
I take along an x-large ziplock bag. I used for liquids when I pack and I use it for laundry while on the cruise. Put clothes & laundry soap in the bag. Use the shower to add water. Zip, agitate, drain, then add clean water to rinse. Works much better than the sink.
Author
Hi Deb,
That’s so smart!The uses for Ziplocks on a cruise are endless, lol. Best laundry hack ever!
Thanks so much for sharing!
Ilana
I bought a whole box of gallon ziplocks at the Dollar Tree just for my cruise! LOL
I found a cruise power strip that has a built in nightlight on amazon.
My mom is a seasoned cruiser and it’s my first time; she is amazed at all of the hacks I’ve shared with her! 😉
Author
Hi Jen,
That power strip sounds fantastic! Very smart!!
Let me know how you enjoy your cruise. It sounds fabulous!
Ilana
Thank you for all of the tips. I am going on a mother & daughter cruise (she is (23) in Aug and cannot wait. This is my second and her first. We will be using most of these tips. Thanks
Author
So glad they could be helpful!
Have an amazing cruise Valerie! I hope your daughter has the very best time!
Ilana
Hi ILANA, I have used most of the same tips on previous cruises. Quart and gallon ziplock bags are great for smelly or wet clothing. The bags are good for lotion, makeup, or anything that may waste or spill in your luggage. I use ziplock bags whenever I travel.
HaHa I did not know that about pineapples.
Thanks for sharing
Author
Hi Kathleen,
I share your love of Ziplocks lol.They really are a lifesaver when traveling!
I know right? Pineapples 😉
Thanks for taking the time to leave a comment.
Ilana
I read about the pineapple. 🤦♀️😂😁
Author
Haha right? That’s going to stay with me forever, lol
Hahaha
A clock. They don’t provide one, so bring one unless you just want to use your phone. I did have a room steward who loaned me his for the week, but don’t count on that happening on all cruises.
Author
That’s a great one! You definitely lucked out on a cabin steward – I agree that’s not likely to happen most of the time. We use our phone, but true having an actual small clock is so handy!
Thanks for the good advice!!
Ilana
I take an old watch and attach it to my pool bag so I know what time it is as there are very few clocks on the pool decks. Also handy when I go ashore so I’m not late back to the ship.
Author
Brilliant idea Janet! It’s so smart to keep a simple watch on “ship time”. Thanks for sharing!
Ilana
These are awesome tips! We also have cruised a few times but I still learned something new! Enjoy!!
Author
Thanks Leslie! It’s always good when we cruisers still can pick up a few extra tips, lol!
Enjoy your next cruise!
Ilana
Wow! Did not realize that about pineapples lol. Thanks for the heads up
Author
Lol, who knew, right?
This one is more a tip for shore excursions. On my first (and so far only) Cruise, my parents gave me a journal to note down everything I did in the day, (where we went, things we saw, etc). I kept the journal inside a 3-ring binder pencil case with a plastic front. Then, any tour tickets, pamphlets, postcards, or other small/flat things could be slipped inside easily and wouldn’t get bent, crunched, or lost. It was such an easy way to keep that stuff from disappearing. And the pencil bag took up next to no space, and was light.
I think if/when I ever get to do another cruise like this, I will bring a whole binder of pencil bags, and each day I can just grab one and toss it in my bag, and label it with the date, location(s) of that day, etc. At the end of the day, I can snap it back into the binder and an empty one is ready for the next day’s adventures.
Author
Hi Sarah,
This is such a phenomenal idea! Do you keep the journal at the end of the trip as a keepsake? It’s really such a nice idea – plus amazing for organization!
Thanks for sharing!
Ilana
I love this idea! I have started scrapbooking, and a journal will help me remember the details of each day when I scrapbook it later.
Author
What a great idea to preserve and relive the memories!!
Love all the great tips… thanks for the heads up on the pineapples!!!
Author
Lol, who knew right? Thanks for taking the time to comment and have a great cruise!
Hahaha-Whoa! 😳 Good to know LOL
Author
I know right? I love Pineapples but now I think twice, lol.
The tried and true for me are the ziploc bags (gallon size) and pop-up laundry hamper. We keep the hamper in our closet and throw our dirty clothes in it. We use cloth reusable shopping bags to pack our dirty clothes back in our bags, sorting by laundry loads while packing. When we return home from a week + vacation, I dread doing laundry the most. When we pack them up like this, it makes it easy to just throw each bag into the washer separately, no additional work when we get home. The other thing we use while on the cruise is magnetic “chip clips”. We bring 5 or 6 of them for inside our stateroom. We keep newsletters, tickets, brochures, and notes on them without taking up valuable counter space.
Author
Fabulous tips Meg. I love the cloth bag idea. That’s so smart! I agree post-cruise laundry is the worst, lol!
Thanks for sharing and taking the time to comment.
Ilana
Good stuff! The only thing I would add is that we always bring along a couple of international converters so we can use those extra sockets to charge things.
Author
Hi Katrina,
That’s a great tip! Thanks for sharing it – I’ll add it when I update the post shortly.
Ilana
make sure it’s a converter and not just an adapter. One converts the power, the other just allows you to use a different plug. If you don’t convert the power, you’ll probably damage the appliance.
Author
That’s a good point. Always important to check. We haven’t had to use one on a cruise, but have used when traveling n Europe and I know this can be confusing.
Thanks for the great tip!
Ilana
1st time cruiser and this was a big help!! And thank you for the heads up with the pineapples, as i love to decorate with pineapples!! Lol! Can you imagine what would’ve happened?! 😬😁 lol!
Author
I’m so glad Liz! I know I thought that was a funny one too, lol!
Have a wonderful cruise!!
Ilana
Hi! I had never heard about pineapples….great to know ( I had to laugh when I read up on it). Great ideas from everyone.
Author
Hi Linda,
I laughed too! Glad it was a fun read!Thanks so much for taking the time to comment.
Ilana
Great list. We just did our first overseas (non-Carribean) cruise. We learned that without the humidity of the Caribbean, the air on the ship is VERY dry. We both ended up with sinus issues (we live in Florida, so we are really affected by dryness)
I dd my research when I got home, and I will never again travel without a compact humidifier. (We also had the dryness issue the last time we went to Las Vegas)
Author
Hi Jackie,
That is a great tip I never thought of! I can imagine the dryness can really have an effect, especially when you’re not used to it.I’ll have to look that up and make a point of it,for those that would find it useful.
Thanks for taking the time to leave a comment!
Ilana
On Royal Caribbean pineapple is a nickname for Pinnacle, the top level of cruiser with 700 or more cruise points. Just found out about the other meaning lol.
Author
Lol,that’s so funny! I didn’t know that -pretty cute!
Thanks so much for sharing Marian!
Hey didn’t see anyone else post this but, carnival had banned portable speaker. 😣 Their website says they will be confiscated at entry. Just a heads up…. We planned to take ours but they put the kibosh on that. Other wise love all the tips. We use most of these already and we’re on our 10th cruise in November. I hope I finally remember a night light!!
Author
Oh no! I didn’t know that. I do see different cruise lines are changing things. Good point to always check policies for updates :-).
Have a great cruise!!
Ilana
When we travel, I place scented dryer sheets in the bag containing soiled laundry in the suitcase. The dryer sheets ‘absorb’ the odors. Dryer sheets can also be placed inside shoes to help minimize foot odors.
Author
What a smart tip Judy! Thanks for sharing it!
Ilana
While finding out about the pineapples, we discovered that an upside down pineapple also has meaning. Check it out.
Author
Lol, I googled!! Too funny – I have to be careful with pineapples everywhere 😉
Thanks for the laugh, Monique!
Been cruising for years but I still look for hints and tips.
My hint for keeping the cabin organized is going through the daily mail. All the newsletters, schedules, invites, coupons, and advertisements that arrive in your cabin. Either save or throw away, don’t feel bad to fill the trash can. Now that I know the walls are magnetic, I have clips to hang up the keepers.
Author
Hi Sandy,
You are so right. All those papers just add up and create so much clutter! I love that you’re using the small magnet clips for the papers. It’s definitely a good idea!
I’ll be getting more organized for my next cruise, so I think I’ll order a few small clips too.
Thanks so much for sharing your great advice!
Ilana
Just learned this from a fellow cruiser. Each day, take a picture of your Fun Times (or daily ship schedule). Then, when you take pictures, you’ll know the day, date, and where you were. Sometimes the beaches look the same, or the gps lists where you were, which isn’t always the port.
Author
Hi Linda,
What a smart idea! Thanks for sharing that great tip!! I love it!
Ilana
This was so very informative and much appreciated; I have made notes as we are going on our first cruise next year!
Author
Hi Lynn,
So glad this is helpful! I’m excited for you as you plan your first cruise! So fun 🙂
Ilana
Thanks so much for this post! I’m first time cruising as an adult, taking my kids and there will be 4 of us in 1 room – 2 teenagers!! This is really going to help us out. Excited to check out the rest of your site!
Author
I’m excited for you Annie! So fun to be cruising with teens – awesome vacation for all!
Have a great time!!
Ilana
Great tips. I’ll be sure to check my magnet stickers for no pineapples! LOL
Author
LOL!!!! I personally love pineapples, but can’t help but thinking of this, since I found this out.
Have an amazing cruise!!
I’ve heard that you can thread your necklace through a straw to keep it from getting tangled during travel.
Author
Very smart tip! I’ve yet to do it, but I’m sure it works well 🙂
I disagree about not bringing a towel. On our girls cruise sister in-law packed a microfiber towel. I told her she did not need it but she brought it anyway. It sure made packing for the beach a lot easier and less to carry since it is so much lighter that the ship towels.
Author
Hi Debbie,
I could see how that could be handy to have a lighter towel. Certainly if people want a lighter towel to bring with that can be a great idea.
Thanks for sharing!
Ilana
Last cruise I loved my quick dry beach towel. worked wonders for excursions..e.g lining chairs/loungers and benches. Cleaning sand of feet a gem
Author
I’m glad to hear. I actually have a hair drying towel that I’m thinking of bringing on my next cruise.
Thanks for the tip!
OMG thats hilarious. I had no idea. I’m so glad you shared the info as we are leaving in two weeks for our first cruise. My nephew, his 11 yo daughter, my 13 yo daughter and myself. We are planning to decorate our door to help the girls find it easily. How awkward would that have been? LMAO
Author
Hahahaha! I always find that one funny too!
Have a great cruise – it sounds amazing!
Ilana
what about soaps and shampoos, does ship provide certain kinds or use our own??
Author
Great question Nancy. I believe most ships do provide a shower gel and shampoo and possibly conditioner.
This can actually vary a bit depending on the cruise line though. If you’re on Facebook, there are any cruise line fan facebook groups where people are happy to give you an answer for a specific ship.
Hope this helps,
Ilana
Okay so you got me. I googled the significance of the pineapple. And who says an old dog can’t learn new tricks. 67 yr old grandma and somehow in all my years missed that one! You probably would have gotten a chuckle form my reaction, went something like oh (gasp) and teehee, with the appropriate facial expression of surprise and amusement.
Thanks for the chuckle and the cruise ideas.
The upcoming one will be our 5th for my husband and 6th for me. We are celebrating our 30th Anniversary and I was considering door decor for the first time. Definitely will not be using a pineapple 😉 Roflol
Author
Congrats Sandra on your special anniversary! So glad it gave you a laugh – it does me too, still lol!
Have an awesome cruise!
Ilana
I’ll be going on my first cruise in October 2020 & I am so excited! Thank you so much for these tips, they will be a huge help.
Author
Hi Shelly,
That’s so exciting!! I’m so glad the tips could be helpful as you get ready for your cruise.
Ilana
Thank you sooo much for these tips! First cruise for all of us coming up (2 teens, mother, father, grandmother) and this will help make things easier with less stress.
Author
Hi Delores,
That’s awesome and sounds so fun! Have a great cruise!
Ilana
HaHa!!!! Thais so good good to know, and not do! Gave my husband and I a good laugh!
Author
So glad!! I know I can’t buy pineapple stuff anymore hehe
My tip is for beach days. Bring baby powder! Sprinkle it on feet/legs/wherever and rub it in. It makes all the sand just fall right off your skin.
Author
Thanks Abby for the tip! I often go to the beach pre cruise in Florida and I definitely can use it!!
Ilana
We had a Christmas cruise with a dozen people, ages 2-65! Putting decor on the doors helped everyone know which rooms were ours, as we were not all together, We also used magnetic hooks to hang light weight things, and used the ones in cabin for heavier bags, etc. We also got different colored lanyards so we all had our cruise I’d with us all the time.
Author
Hi Ann,
I love how you used door decorations with your group. Very smart idea! If you have any photos of the doors, I’d love to feature them in a blog post that I think will be helpful to other cruisers. If not, no worries at all. My email is lifewellcruised@gmail.com if you do.
And those magnetic hooks, amazing right?
Thanks for sharing your tips and cruise hacks!
Ilana
We are excited to put these hacks to good use in the fall! Might keep the pineapples out, though! 😅
Author
Lol I can’t ever look at pineapples the same since I found this out. Glad you’ll be able to use these hacks. Have an awesome cruise Alicia!
Ilana
I get the collapsible square bins that are material from the Dollar Tree and put all our bathroom counter items in those and then on the shelf below the sink. My makeup and such goes in one and the toothbrushes, toothpaste, mouthwash and such in the other…Frees up the counter space and keeps everything together…
Author
How smart! I love those tips for keeping your bathroom well organized! Thanks for sharing Dolores.
Ilana
I am thinking about decorating our door with magnets. A tropical theme would be appropriate sans pineapple. That would be awkward. Thanks again. Hee hee!
Author
Haha I love it! I hear so many people say they feel like decorating their cabin doors when they get back on a ship again. I’ll skip the pineapples too lol
Ha ha! …2020 I had (not knowing at that time) used 🍍stickers on my cruise luggage for better identification 🤦🏼♀️
Author
Too funny! Just love it
Ilana
Thank you for the great tips!
Question: how do you transport the magnet hooks? In luggage? In carry-on? Do you have to notify the airline that you have magnets with you?
Author
HI Angie,
I asked others in my facebook group, and many said they put their magnets in their checked luggage. It didn’t seem to be an issue at all. Some did say they put them in their carry on and didn’t have a problem either – a tip was to place a note saying “magnet hooks for cruise” if you like.
Enjoy your cruise!
Ilana
I have gotten so many great ideas from your videos. My husband & I have been on 6 Princess cruises to Alaska. I am a Princess Cruises fan. You had mentioned a hack for the Princess Plus Drink Package regarding getting drinks delivered to your cabin and that you’d put a link but I have searched and can not find it. Could you point me in the right direction. Thank you again for all the great information and ideas on cruising!
Author
Hi Debbie,
My understanding is that right now as part of the Ocean Medallion experience, drinks will be delivered anywhere on the ship, including your cabin. This should be on the Princess website, I believe referred to as crew call.
Here’s some info on the updates that might be helpful: https://lifewellcruised.com/princess-ocean-medallion-updates/
Thanks so much for your kind words – so glad you’ve been enjoying my videos!
Ilana
Hi Ilana! Great tips! We’ve been cruising for 20 years, and you have several tips I hadn’t thought of! Here’s a couple for ya that I haven’t seen yet. We keep all our cruise docs, travel insurance info, passports, luggage tags, thank you cards, and cash (once we get to our room) in a zipper pouch about the size of an old ‘bank deposit’ bag. My hubby carries that in his carry-on, so we always know where everything is. I carry an envelope with copies of everything (including our credit cards), and hide another copy in a checked bag. They all go right into the safe once we get in the room! We also make up envelopes of cash and excursion tickets, labeled for each port day. That way we know we have everything we need, and just have to grab the envelope in the morning!
We’re going on our first cruise in two years in a few weeks, and we can’t wait!
Author
Hi Joleigh,
I love these tips! The envelopes prepared for port days is brilliant – I usually count out money in the morning or evening before the port stop, but this is much more organized.
Thanks for sharing!
Ilana
We have been on several Carnival cruises and I bring magnet hangers and clips every time. They do not work. I don’t know if it’s the paint on the door or the vinyl on the walls but if there is metal underneath, the magnets aren’t attaching to it. every time I place one of the magnets on a wall or door, it slides down to the floor. And that’s before I put anything on it. I have found 3M hooks and hangers to be a better solution for us. They stick and can be removed without any residue or damage.
Author
Hi Roxanne,
I’ll have to give those command hooks a try. I do know that in some Carnival cabins, sometimes only a couple walls are metal, from what I’ve been told. Thanks for sharing your tips.
Ilana
Thank you so much for these tips and all comments from everyone!! Making notes of everything. Finally taking our first cruise. Something that I said I will never do. I’m excited and nervous. Definitely packing several bottles of Dramamine.
Author
Hi Nicole,
I’m sure you’ll have a great time. Likely, the motion won’t be too bad, but smart to be prepared just in case. Just make sure it’s non drowsy if you have to take something.
Have fun!!
Ilana
Hi Ilana!
Thank you for all the great information. Will be planning a large group tour to Bermuda and all your suggestions are helpful.
That pineapple thing…..HAHA!….I will be using apples…lol
Author
Hi Michele,
Lol, I can’t look at pineapples the same way anymore ;-). Fabulous that you’re planning a group cruise to Bermuda!! One of my absolute favorite destinations. Enjoy!
Ilana
Went on a xmas river cruise. I found a 3 shelf cloth hanging unit in closet was helpful to put sweater, scarfs and socks in order.
I only packed one 21 inch suitcase and all clothes were mix and match in color . Stayed eight days with 4 pant 4 blouses, 2 sweater and a tank top/scarf to layer. Wore black pants and a red sweater set to formal meals and dressed it up with a xmas brooch. Did laundry in the sink if needed and air dry in bathroom on hanger with clips. XXLarge zip lock bag was our laundry hamper with dryer sheet in it to help with odor control. Used elastic headband to keep bathroom door open a crack and not be steamed out!
Author
Thanks for sharing your experience and tips. This sounds like a great capsule wardrobe & a good way to manage while packing fairly light 🙂
Ilana
Thank you for all these fabulous tips. My list is growing. I am a fangirl of Ilana and a fellow Canadian!
Author
Thanks so much Heather!! Nice to meet you neighbour 🙂
Thank you for this! This is my first trip I am planning and not going with my parents, I never knew all that went into it. Also, funny story. The last cruise we went on, we stayed in a hotel the night before. There was also a swingers cruise going out the next day and a couple thought my aunt and uncle were swingers at the hotel. It was a funny story to tell haha.
Author
Haha, thanks for sharing that story and have an amazing cruise Paige!
Ilana
Well a good tip is a solar charger and a mate who a chief engineer wre talking cargo ship he surgests sailor SIM card for phone as most phones won’t work at sea once 10km out .for charging I carry a solar charger even as low as1% you can make about why no surge protector is not allowed my mate who the chief engineer says that power runs. Through the engine that thing trips and guess what shorts out the engine no power toilets water or ac a cruise can become a stink cruise
Author
Interesting. Thanks for sharing
Thanks so much for your tips on how to keep your cabin feeling spacious. My grandparents want to go on a cruise since they retired. Knowing some of these tips to better your cruise experience will be perfect for them.
Author
I’m so glad this was helpful Jessie! I hope your grandparents have a wonderful cruise!
Ilana
Oh my!!! Too funny on the pineapple door decorations! We won’t be decorating with pineapples anytime soon!!! 🙂 I’ve watched a lot of your videos and read a lot of your posts. They are so helpful and enjoyable.
Author
Haha, right? Me neither! Thanks so much – I’m glad you enjoy the videos and posts
I think I am going to make my husband read this Because I am done organizing his things. Only the two of us live in the cabin on any cruise and he creates a huge mess. Please do post a blog helping me out with how I can make him a little bit organized.
Author
Lol Patricia, I’m not sure I have the magic trick. Have a great cruise!
I’ve been using so many of your tips even for regular travel. The colour coded packing cubes was a game changer on my last trip to Germany.
The only thing I regret having bothered bringing on my cruise last year was a travel mug and water bottle. Being on Celebrity all inclusive plan it really was just taking up space in my luggage.
There is one hack my steward taught me which was genius. The ceilings are magnetic and you can hang your damp jacket to dry faster if it’s on the ceiling. I was on an Alaskan cruise and it rained sooo much. It was the best trip if my life and honestly my steward was a big part of why it was so incredible.
Author
Great to hear! Thanks for sharing 🙂
We are first time cruisers embarking in January and these are VERY helpful tips! Thank you for sharing!!! And LOL to the pineapple!! My word….
Author
Haha. Enjoy your cruise!
ilana, I really appreciate your information for cruising. You have more class and sense of humor than any other person I have listened to. Some really grate my nerves. Keep up your good work for us, we need your knowledge. Myself, husband and brother and his gf are going on NCL Dec 17th along with other friends, party of about 25+. At 70 yrs old I plan on having more fun than EVER before. Thanks again !
Author
Lol, some might not agree with you but I do appreciate your comments. You’ve got a great attitude! Enjoy your cruise -Ilana
That’s a great list and it includes things that have turned out to be absolute game changers for us. We have the roll up dry erase board that wait on the wall just inside the door. The foldable laundry baskets are so good. I don’t know why but having somewhere to put dirty clothes is awesome!
Author
That’s a great idea – I haven’t see roll up dry erase boards. Thanks for sharing 🙂
We’ll be taking a Rhine River cruise with extended stays in Switzerland and the Netherlands. I use a CPAP machine and I’d like to know if I require an adapter or a converter? Thank you.
Author
Hi Dawn, for specific questions it’s best to contact your River Cruise line. I wouldn’t want to steer you wrong
What a fantastic list of cruise cabin hacks! I especially love the tip about using a hanging organizer to save space. As someone who often travels with family, keeping the cabin clutter-free is essential for a relaxing trip. Additionally, using magnetic hooks for extra storage is genius—I’ll definitely be trying that on my next cruise. Thanks for sharing these practical and creative tips!
Author
Glad you like the tips – I agree the hanging organizer is especially helpful for families!
I watched so many of your videos before we did our Quebec/New England cruise this past July, thanks for all the tips. One FYI. We were on the Emerald princess and they now have night lights under the vanities at the side of the bed that are motion sensor. So if you have to get up in the middle of the night, the light turns on. Never stubbed my toe 😊the entire 11days. Magnetic hooks are an absolute must, as well as the over the door organizer where I put all our sunscreen and other personal toiletries. The new princess medallion worked really well for us, and it was great having the entire ship schedule on the app so no matter where you were you could check where the rest of your group was or what time your movie/trivia/lecture started or what time your dinner reservation was. No more need to have the princess patter in your back pocket .The only problem we had with it was ordering drinks when we were in the hot tub. My husband always got his drinks and I never got mine. So strange!