10 Free Things You Can Take from a Cruise Cabin

Have you ever wondered what free treasures can be taken from a cruise cabin? For cruise enthusiasts old and new, the allure of the high seas is only part of the journey. Along the way, we indulge in sun-soaked days, lavish meals, and dreamy evenings. But as you disembark, can some mementos from your cabin accompany you home? Here, we’ll navigate through what you can walk away with, as well as what must stay aboard. Plus, I’ll share some amusing stories of fellow passengers who’ve “accidentally” brought items home. Let’s set sail on this guide!

10 Free Things You Can Take from a Cruise Cabin

Embarking on a cruise is not just about the destinations you’ll explore but the unique experiences and little surprises you’ll find along the journey. Within the cozy confines of your cabin lie freebies that enhance your trip – and can be delightful reminders when you return home.

1. Slippers

One of the small luxuries offered by many cruise lines is a pair of slippers. Whether you’re a fan of fluffy novelty slippers or find delight in practical ones, these are yours for the taking. Cruise passengers often take them home as comfy footwear or as gifts for loved ones who weren’t able to join the voyage.

2. Mini Toiletry Bottles and Bar Soaps

Just like in a hotel, many cruise cabins come equipped with complimentary toiletries. Miniature bottles of shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and those cute bar soaps are yours to keep. They serve as a practical reminder of your trip and are especially useful for anyone who loves traveling light.

3. Cruise Line Branded Stationery and Pens

Many cruisers cherish the branded stationery and pens found in their cabins as souvenirs. These items are often permitted to be taken home. The pen from your favorite cruise line sitting on your desk can bring a smile and a flood of memories whenever you use it.

4. Chocolates Left on Pillows

Who doesn’t enjoy a sweet surprise? While not all cruise lines practice the delightful tradition, some leave chocolates on your pillow nightly. Taking these home can be a sweet reminder of your onboard experience, perfect for sharing with family or savoring yourself.

5. Wine, Champagne, and Mini Alcohol Bottles

Special treats like wine or mini-alcohol bottles, usually offered by travel agents or as a loyalty perk, are indeed yours to keep. Toasting with a bottle at home can instantly transport you back to your joyous journey.

6. Complimentary Tote Bags

Receiving a tote bag branded with the cruise line’s logo is common on many cruises. These totes are perfect for beach outings, grocery trips, or for use as an eco-friendly bag. Plus, the branding is a conversation starter with fellow cruisers you might meet long after your journey ends.

7. Daily Cruise Planners

Daily cruise planners listing activities, menus, and events onboard can be taken home. Many travelers compile these into scrapbooks or travel journals, allowing them to relive each day’s adventure.

8. Corkscrew (Depending on Cruise Line)

While this isn’t guaranteed on every cruise line, some passengers are gifted with small, branded corkscrews. Before assuming it’s yours, confirm with your room steward. If you get the green light, consider it a neat little keepsake.

9. Jewel Holders or Charm Bracelets

Certain cruise lines opt to provide unique jewelry holders or charm bracelets. Collecting additional charms onboard becomes an engaging quest. Completing a set and taking it home is a sentimental keepsake of your time at sea.

10. Memories and Photos

Though intangible, the memories and photos captured during your cruise are lasting keepsakes. From a snapshot on your balcony to candid moments with new friends, these memories are free, precious, and undeniably yours to keep forever.

10 Things You Can’t Take Home from a Cruise Ship Cabin

While cruise ships are often equipped with all the comforts of home, not everything is destined to leave the vessel with you. Bringing certain items back could result in unexpected charges.

1. Robes

The plush bathrobe awaiting you in your cabin is, unfortunately, not yours to take. It’s considered property of the cruise line and can be purchased if you fall in love with it.

2. Towels

Pool and excursion towels are not meant to leave with you. Some cruise lines will even charge a fee for each towel that doesn’t make it back.

3. Bedding, Pillows, and Linen

Though the linens may feel luxurious, cruise passengers should avoid packing these items in their luggage. They are meant for onboard use only.

4. Virgin Voyages Corkscrew

Virgin Voyages includes a unique corkscrew in their cabins. Noticing the affixed price tag or signage warning of charges removes the surprise of any extra costs.

5. Glasses, Ice Buckets, and Water Pitchers

Tempted to grab a unique glass or that handy ice bucket? These items should remain in the cabin. They’re reusable onboard items, and taking them can incur added expenses.

6. Binoculars

Binoculars provided, especially on scenic cruise routes, should return to their designated cabin spot before departure. They enhance onboard experiences but aren’t intended for home sightseeing.

7. Outdoor Blankets (Alaska Cruise)

The cozy outdoor blankets found on Alaskan routes are perfect for chilly evenings but should remain with the ship when your cruise concludes.

8. Carnival’s Blue Blanket

Known for its vibrant color, Carnival Cruise Line’s blue blanket is a guest favorite. However, keeping it as a souvenir isn’t allowed unless specifically purchased from the onboard store.

9. Electronic Items (e.g., iPad)

Cabins outfitted with electronic gadgets will need to relinquish these items aboard. Similar to the luxury cabin stewards, these electronics belong firmly on the ship.

10. Cabin Steward

While many passengers jokingly express a wish to bring their extraordinary service team home, these devoted individuals remain a cherished part of the ship’s crew, only to enrich others’ voyages post your departure.

Accidentally Taken Items and Amusing Narratives

With so much movement while packing, sometimes items unintentionally make their way into luggage. People are often surprised to discover objects like:

• Washcloths sneaking into bags
• TV remotes hiding in the kids’ playthings
• Hangers that simply find no rational fit back home
• Dispenser toiletries, grabbed in typical haste
• Towel animals, mistakenly seen as mementos
• Mugs, since too fabulous and tempting to resist
• Umbrellas, some argue their inclusion matters

These incidents frequently create laughter and good-natured tales shared among cruise friends years after returning home.

Final Thoughts

Navigating what is and isn’t allowed from your cruise cabin is often straightforward but requires attention to detail. While there are various items you can happily bring home, others should remain, leaving only fond memories behind. Have you taken any of these complimentary items from your cruise ship cabin? Did you face charges for bringing something that wasn’t intended for home use? Share your stories and experiences. It’s your cruise journey; treasure it and make it last in ways that fit the sea’s spirit.