Cruise Packing Hacks

Written By PortTrip .

Must-Have Essentials for Every Traveler

FEBRUARY 23rd, 2025

 

Packing for a cruise is different from packing for a land-based vacation. With limited cabin space, variable weather conditions, and strict cruise policies, you need to be strategic about what you bring. After taking multiple cruises and learning from both overpacking and forgetting essentials, I’ve put together the ultimate cruise packing guide to help you travel light while still having everything you need.

Here are the best cruise packing hacks, must-have essentials, and smart tips to maximize space and minimize stress. Plus, I'll share how PortTrip can help you optimize your port days, ensuring you pack the right items for each destination.

Discover how PortTrip provides time-saving recommendations for maximizing your shore Activities.

1. Pack Smart with a Carry-On Bag

When you first board, your checked luggage might not arrive at your cabin for several hours. That’s why having a well-packed carry-on bag is essential to start your cruise stress-free.

What to pack in your carry-on:

✔️ Travel documents (passport, boarding passes, cruise tickets, visas if needed) stored in a waterproof travel document organizer

✔️ Medications and prescription drugs in a travel pill organizer

✔️ A swimsuit (quick-dry swimsuit) so you can hit the pool right away!

✔️ Phone charger and power bank (high-capacity power bank) for keeping devices charged

✔️ A change of clothes (just in case your luggage is delayed)

✔️ Toothbrush and mini toiletries (TSA-approved travel kit)

✔️ Sunscreen (reef-safe sunscreen) for protection while exploring your first port

✔️ Cruise line app downloaded for quick access to onboard activities, daily schedules, and reservations

Pro Tip: Use PortTrip to plan excursions in advance so you know exactly what gear to bring for each port stop, saving space in your luggage.

2. Choose the Right Luggage

Cruise cabins are small, so choosing compact, easy-to-store luggage is key. Hard-shell luggage may look stylish, but soft-sided luggage is more practical as it can be stored under the bed.

Pro Tip: Label your luggage with a bright tag or ribbon so it’s easy to find in the cruise terminal.

3. Don’t Forget Power Strips (Cruise-Approved Only!)

Most cruise cabins have limited outlets, and some older ships don’t have USB ports. A non-surge-protected power strip can make charging devices much easier.

Pro Tip: If your cabin has only a few outlets, charge devices while at dinner to free up space for overnight charging.

Discover how PortTrip assists in scheduling activities, managing dining reservations, and ensuring you don't miss out on any of the ship's exclusive offerings.

4. Maximize Cabin Storage with Magnetic Hooks

Cruise cabin walls are made of metal, meaning magnetic hooks and organizers can create extra storage!

✔️ Hang jackets, hats, and lanyards

✔️ Use them for drying swimsuits and towels

✔️ Keep excursion bags off the floor

✔️ Organize daily outfits for easy access

Best option: Heavy-duty magnetic hooks

5. Pack a Refillable Water Bottle & Insulated Cup

Most cruise lines provide water stations but don’t allow disposable bottles to be refilled. Bringing a reusable bottle keeps you hydrated throughout the trip.

✔️ Best insulated tumbler: Yeti stainless steel tumbler

✔️ Best collapsible bottle: Travel-friendly collapsible bottle

✔️ Best filtered bottle: Brita filtered water bottle

Pro Tip: Use PortTrip to check port excursion details and find out if filtered water is available at your destination.

6. Essential First Aid & Seasickness Kit

A first aid kit is a lifesaver on a cruise, especially if you're prone to seasickness.

✔️ Best anti-nausea wristbands: Sea-Band motion sickness bands

✔️ Travel-size pain relievers: Advil travel pack

✔️ Best antacids: TUMS travel pack

✔️ Waterproof Band-Aids: Waterproof Band-Aids

✔️ Cold medicine for A/C cabins: DayQuil/NyQuil travel size

7. Use Waterproof Bags for Beach & Pool Days

✔️ Best waterproof phone case: Floating waterproof phone case

✔️ Best dry bag: Waterproof dry bag backpack

✔️ Best compression bags: Space-saving travel vacuum bags

 
 

Packing for a cruise doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By using these smart cruise packing hacks, you’ll stay organized, save space, and ensure a stress-free vacation. Whether you’re exploring exotic ports or relaxing onboard, the right packing strategy makes all the difference.

Use PortTrip to plan shore excursions, research local transportation, and optimize your port days to make the most of your cruise adventure.

Bon voyage! 🚢✨

 
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