Unexpected Things You’ll Be Glad You Packed for Your Cruise

One of my favorite things about cruising? Once you unpack, your hotel room floats from port to port while you sip cocktails and soak in the views. It’s one of the easiest, most relaxing ways to travel.

But here’s the thing: a few not-so-obvious items can make life onboard way more comfortable—and even save you from a few common cruise cabin annoyances.

These aren’t your standard “don’t forget sunscreen” tips. These are the unsung heroes of cruise packing—slightly quirky, incredibly useful, and always in my suitcase.

Whether you're heading to the Caribbean, Alaska, or Europe (ocean or river!), here are five things I always recommend packing for your cruise:

1. Magnetic Hooks

Cruise cabin walls are made of metal—which means magnetic hooks are pure magic for staying organized.

Use them to:

• Hang lanyards, hats, bags, or keycards

• Air-dry swimsuits or damp towels

• Keep excursion tickets or daily planners visible

They take up almost no space in your suitcase but offer so much convenience.

2. Magnetic Nightlight

Cruise cabins can be pitch black at night—especially interior rooms. Combine that with unfamiliar surroundings, and suddenly a midnight bathroom trip becomes a toe-stubbing obstacle course.

A small magnetic nightlight gives you just enough glow to navigate safely—without waking your cabinmate or messing with your sleep.

3. Clothes Pins

Yes, really.

These little guys are surprisingly versatile:

• Keep curtains shut in bright or oddly shaped cabins

• Hang swimsuits or laundry on your balcony chair

• Secure beach towels on windy pool decks

Lightweight and cheap, but ridiculously helpful.

4. Travel-Sized Laundry Detergent Packs

You don’t need to do full loads of laundry—but having a few detergent packs on hand makes it easy to:

• Wash swimsuits or gym clothes in the sink

• Freshen up something you want to re-wear

• Spot-clean spills before they set in

Perfect for longer trips or anyone trying to avoid overpacking (🙋‍♀️).

🛁 5. Bathroom Spray (Yes, Like Poo-Pourri)

Cruise cabins are cozy. And when you’re sharing a small space with a partner or family member, a discreet air freshener is everyone’s best friend. Tuck a small bottle in your toiletry bag and thank me later.

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Want help planning your next cruise—plus more packing tips where these came from?

Let’s find the right itinerary, ship, and stateroom for you. Contact your favorite Modern Travel Pro to help with the big details and the small ones.

Kathleen Anckner - Travel Advisor

919-247-4573

kathleen@moderntravelpros.com