Handy Household Items You Didn’t Know You Needed for a Cruise

Have you ever gone on a cruise and thought to yourself, “I wish I had brought that item from home”? Packing for a cruise can be a challenge, with the limited space of a cabin and the need for smart organization. However, do you know about the handy household items that can make your cruise experience smoother and more enjoyable?

Large Insulated Mugs for Coffee Lovers

Starting your day with a hot cup of your favorite coffee is delightful, and having a large insulated mug can keep it warm longer. Cruise ship cups tend to be smaller, and walking back and forth for refills can be inconvenient. An insulated mug ensures that your beverage of choice stays at its desired temperature, whether it’s a morning brew or an afternoon iced coffee.

Various Sizes of Ziploc Bags

You might be surprised at how versatile Ziploc bags can be. From storing snacks and keeping wet swimsuits separate in your luggage, to containing toiletries and protecting electronics from sudden weather changes—they are essential. Different sizes cater to varied needs, making them indispensable travel companions.

Baby Powder for Removing Sand

If your cruise involves beaches, baby powder could be your best friend. A sprinkle on sandy skin helps quickly remove those stubborn grains, leaving you comfortable and ready to head back on board without tracking sand everywhere.

Comfortable Slippers

After a day of excursions or navigating around the ship, slipping into something comfortable can make all the difference. A pair of soft slippers can help your feet feel pampered and relaxed, adding a touch of homey comfort to your stay.

Highlighters

Highlighting daily schedules or important information in brochures can help you keep track of activities you don’t want to miss. Highlighters are small and lightweight, adding significant convenience during planning periods.

Post-it Notes

Communication on a cruise ship can be tricky, with everyone scatter throughout various locations. Post-it notes are a quick way to leave messages for your family or friends when you’re off to an activity. They are also great for reminders pinned in your cabin.

Anti-Wrinkle Spray

Who wants to worry about ironing clothes on vacation? Pack a small bottle of anti-wrinkle spray. It helps smooth out fabrics and removes creases without the hassle of an iron so that you can look sharp for dinners and events without stress.

Non-Surge Protected Power Bars

With limited outlets in cabins, a non-surge protected power bar increases the number of devices you can charge simultaneously. Remember that these must be non-surge because many cruise lines do not permit surge-protected devices.

Heavy-Duty Magnet Hooks

Cabin walls are typically metallic, making magnet hooks an efficient way to hang clothing, swimwear, or accessories. They free up space and reduce clutter, so you enjoy a more organized room.

Over-the-Counter Medications

Though the ship may have essentials, bringing your own over-the-counter medications can save time and money. Consider packing remedies for headaches, allergies, or minor stomach upsets to handle various health needs quickly and conveniently.

Seasickness Remedies

Even the sturdiest sailors can fall victim to queasy seas. Be prepared with seasickness remedies, such as bands, tablets, or ginger candies, which provide relief and ensure you enjoy the cruise without disruption.

Towel Clips

Towel clips secure your towels by the pool or on shore trips. They’re practical under windy conditions, offering peace of mind as you swim or relax under the sun without your towel blowing away.

Earplugs

Cruises often feature lively, entertainment-filled environments. A quality set of earplugs ensures a peaceful sleep amidst potentially noisy neighbors or events, allowing restful nights critical to recharging your energy.

Foldable Laundry Hampers

Keep dirty laundry separate from clean clothing with a lightweight, foldable hamper. It organizes and simplifies packing to head home, making post-vacation cleanup much easier.

Anti-Chafing Balms

Days of exploring can lead to chafing. Packing an anti-chafing balm protects your skin and allows you to partake in full-day adventures without discomfort.

Protein Bars

These come in handy for mid-day energy boosts or satisfying hunger pangs between meals. Keep a few in your day bag to have a nutritious snack on hand whenever you need one.

Waterproof Phone Cases

Protect your phone from unexpected splashes or beach trips with a waterproof case. It safeguards your device while enabling you to take stunning photos or videos on your aquatic adventures.

Lanyard for Keeping Cruise Cards Handy

Cruise cards are essential for booking activities and entering your room. A lanyard keeps your cruise card easily accessible, reducing the risk of misplacement and allowing quick access everywhere on the ship.

Sewing Kits

Minor wardrobe malfunctions shouldn’t ruin your vacation. A compact sewing kit with needles, thread, and scissors can save the day for any garment repairs.

Mini First-Aid Kit

Carry a mini first-aid kit suitable for treating small cuts, blisters, or bug bites. These kits come in handy when you least expect it, providing quick care until you can reach more comprehensive medical services if necessary.

Wine (if allowed by the Cruise Line)

Check your cruise line’s policy on alcohol; many allow passengers to bring a bottle or two of wine. It’s perfect for a private celebration or quiet evening on your balcony, enjoying the view with your favorite vintage.

Collapsible Water Bottles

Stay hydrated without using disposable plastic bottles by bringing a collapsible water bottle. These are easy to pack and refill around the cruise ship, contributing to environmental efforts while saving space.

Small Travel Fan

Cabin climates can vary, and a small travel fan enhances your comfort. Whether you need more airflow or a bit of white noise for sleeping, this little gadget is a game-changer.

Motion Sensor Nightlight

Stumbling around a dark cabin at night can lead to accidents. A motion-sensor nightlight provides illumination whenever you need it, ensuring safe midnight trips to the bathroom or when searching for something without waking others.

Apple AirTag for Tracking Luggage

Tag your bags with Apple AirTags or similar devices to keep track of your luggage. Especially beneficial during disembarkation, you can easily locate luggage or find them should they get misplaced.

Thank You Cards for Crew Members

The service you’ll receive from cruise crew members is often extraordinary. Bringing thank you cards lets you express appreciation personally, making a positive impact and adding a generous touch to their day.

Luggage Tag Holders

Sturdy luggage tag holders protect your tags from damage or loss during transit. They ensure your bags are easily identifiable and the tags legible when going through ports or airports.

Where to Find These Items

Many of these items can be found at home or in local stores. Dollar stores often carry a surprising range of these items at affordable prices, and if you’re in a time crunch, Amazon provides quick shipping, ensuring you have everything ready for your cruise.

Packing the right items enables you to enhance the cruise experience, making for a smoother and more pleasant journey. Consider each item’s benefits to suit your personal needs and preferences, helping create enjoyable travel memories without stress.

If you’re interested in comprehensive planning assistance, an ultimate cruise planner can elevate your experience even further, providing detailed guidance and helping you make the most out of your vacation. Happy cruising!