I’m always on the lookout for ways to make cruising easier and more enjoyable. Over time my packing list has changed a lot, with some old favorites getting replaced by newer, smarter finds. This year I’ve added a few things that have already proven to be worth the space in my suitcase.
Some are practical upgrades that solve small but annoying problems, others make port days smoother, and a few just add a little extra comfort to life onboard.
With that said, here are the 15 cruise travel essentials I’m bringing with me in 2025.
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15 New Cruise Travel Essentials I’m Using this Year
1. Anker Zolo Powerbank
The Anker Zolo Power Bank is perfect for keeping all your devices charged while you’re on the go. It can charge multiple devices at once and comes with both a USB-C and a Lightning cable built in, so you don’t have to pack extra cords.
Available in multiple colors, it’s both practical and easy to spot in your bag. For anyone who takes lots of photos and videos in port or relies on their phone throughout the day, this is a must-have.
Recommended: Anker Zolo Powerbank (see other colors on Amazon)
2. Airplane Pocket
The Airplane Pocket was something I honestly wasn’t sure I needed at first. Once I tried it, I realized how practical it is and how much easier it makes flying. It slips over the tray and gives you extra compartments for your phone, headphones, snacks, and even a small water bottle.
Instead of digging through your personal bag under the seat, everything is right in front of you and easy to grab, making travel feel more organized and stress-free.
Recommended: Airplane Pocket
3. Magnetic Fan
A Magnetic Cruise Fan is a lifesaver when the cabin air feels warmer than you’d like. This one has a rechargeable battery that lasts up to 44 hours, so you can run it through the night without worrying about cords or outlets.
It attaches right to the cabin wall or ceiling, keeping it out of the way while still giving you a comfortable breeze. Since many cruisers deal with cabins that aren’t quite cool enough, this is a simple but effective problem solver.
Recommended: Magnetic cruise cabin fan (see over 200 positive reviews on Amazon)
4. Mesh Tote Bag
The Kalidi Mesh Tote Bag has become a favorite of ours this year, and for good reason. It’s lightweight, easy to carry, and perfect for the lido deck or beach days in port.
Furthermore, the breathable mesh keeps everything from getting musty, and it’s easy to shake out sand after a beach day. It’s a simple, versatile bag that we’ve been bringing on every cruise.
Recommended: Kalidi Mesh Tote Bag (see great price on Amazon)
5. Magnetic Toothbrush Holder
A Magnetic Toothbrush Holder is one of those small upgrades that makes a surprisingly big difference on a cruise. Bathrooms onboard are notoriously compact, so every inch of counter space matters.
This holder sticks right to the wall or mirror, keeping your toothbrush clean, dry, and out of the way. It’s a simple solution that helps you stay organized without adding clutter to an already tight space.
Recommended: Portable Luggage Scale
7. USB-C Power Cable
A USB-C Cable has become a must-pack item now that most electronics, including the newest iPhones, use USB-C charging. Many of the newer cruise ships even have USB-C outlets built right into the cabin, which makes charging even easier.
Since I upgraded my iPhone earlier this year, I’ve made it a habit to always pack an extra USB-C cable just in case. It’s a small backup that can be a lifesaver if your main cable stops working or goes missing.
Recommended: USB-C Cable
8. Collapsible Water Bottle
A Collapsible Water Bottle is one of the most affordable and space-saving items you can pack for a cruise. It comes in a variety of colors, so you can even choose one to match your style.
When it’s empty, it folds or rolls down to fit easily in your bag, which is perfect for tight packing. It’s also a great way to stay hydrated onboard or in port without having to buy expensive plastic water bottles.
Recommended: Collapsible Water Bottle (see great price on Amazon!)
9. Foldable Beach Blanket
If you enjoy spending time at the beach during port days, a Foldable Beach Blanket is a great item to pack. It’s small, lightweight, and compact, yet unfolds to give you plenty of space to stretch out and relax.
Instead of paying extra for chairs and an umbrella, you can set it up anywhere and enjoy the day your way. It’s an easy, budget-friendly way to make the most of a beach stop on your cruise.
Recommended: Foldable Beach Blanket
10. Compression Packing Cubes
If you’ve been cruising for a while, you’ve probably heard of packing cubes. However, Compression Packing Cubes take things to the next level. They work the same way as regular cubes for keeping clothes organized, but the extra zipper lets you compress everything down to save even more space.
I recently started using them and have really been enjoying how much more I can fit into my suitcase. They’re especially helpful when packing for longer cruises or multiple climates.
Recommended: Compression Packing Cubes (see over 24,000 positive reviews on Amazon)
11. Anti-Theft Phone Lanyard
An Anti-Theft Phone Lanyard is something I started using after cruising to the Mediterranean this year, where pickpocketing is unfortunately very common. Even in busy cruise ports like Nassau, it’s easy for a thief to grab a phone if you’re not paying attention.
This lanyard connects under your phone case, making it much harder for anyone to snatch it. It’s adjustable, so you can wear it across your body, around your hand, or around your neck, giving you both security and convenience while exploring.
Recommended: Anti-Theft Phone Lanyard
12. KIDMY Cork Sandals
Cork Sandals have become one of my go-to shoes for cruising because they’re super comfortable and easy to wear all day. They have a similar look and feel to Birkenstocks but come at a much more affordable price.
I’ve included links for both women’s and men’s styles so you can find the right pair. They’re perfect for walking around the ship, heading to the pool, or exploring in port.
Recommended: KIDMY Cork Sandals (see available sizes on Amazon)
Alternative For Men: Cushionaire Men’s Sandals
13. Waterproof Phone Pouch
A Waterproof Phone Pouch is perfect for keeping your phone safe while still being able to use it in wet environments. Whether you’re swimming in the ocean during a port day or relaxing in the pool on the ship, it keeps your phone dry and protected.
You can still take photos and videos through the clear cover, so you don’t miss any moments. It’s a simple, inexpensive item that gives you peace of mind around the water.
Recommended: Waterproof Phone Pouch (see over 10,000+ positive reviews on Amazon)
14. Magnet Hooks
Magnet Hooks aren’t a new item, but they’re something I always bring and use on every cruise. Since cabin walls are made of metal, these hooks instantly give you extra hanging space for hats, bags, lanyards, or even wet swimsuits.
They help keep the small cabin space organized and clutter-free. It’s one of those simple essentials I never sail without.
Recommended: Magnet Hooks
15. Foldable Laundry Hamper
A Foldable Laundry Hamper is something I bring on every cruise because it’s just so convenient. Once you’ve unpacked, it’s always tricky to figure out where to keep dirty clothes without them ending up in a pile on the floor or mixed in with clean ones.
This hamper pops open when you need it and folds flat when you don’t, making it easy to pack. It’s a simple solution that keeps the cabin tidy from day one to disembarkation.
Recommended: Foldable Laundry Hamper
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