I’ve traveled on cruises all over the world, from Alaska to the Caribbean and soon through the Greek isles.
My personal preference is for a ship with an adults-only atmosphere, creative onboard entertainment, and no-buffet, no-kids policy that gives the whole experience a cooler, more curated feel – whether you’re lounging on the pool deck with a cocktail, grabbing ramen at 2 a.m., or dancing under the stars.
But even the most relaxed ships have unspoken rules: Don’t hog the loungers, don’t bring your speaker to the hot tub, and yes, your cabin neighbor can hear everything. Packing the right gear – like magnetic hooks or wrinkle release spray – can help you stay comfortable, organized, and respectful of those around you.
Here’s everything I recommend first-time cruisers bring aboard to make the most of their trip, without stepping on any toes.
An external power strip for cabins with limited outlets
The limit doesn’t exist with how many electronics we travel with, so bringing a compact adapter is a total game changer for those who constantly need to be charging their gear. It combines two AC outlets and USB ports in one portable hub, so you can charge your phone, camera, and tablet simultaneously — even in cabins with limited plugs.
It’s lightweight, easy to pack, and eliminates the need to unplug gear every time you want to use something.
Some magnetic hooks for ad-hoc storage
The biggest perk of a cruise is that you only have to unpack once. The key is to maximize the space as much as possible, which is where these magnetic hooks come in handy. Designed with cruise cabins in mind, they easily cling to metal walls or cabin doors without drilling or damage — ideal for hanging essentials like hats, jackets, or swim gear.
While the hooks are compact, they reliably handle light-to-moderate items with no slipping, even during rough seas.
A magnetic toothbrush holder
This slim organizer is a clever space-saver for travelers who want to free up precious counter space in their bathroom. It adheres securely to the wall, holding toothbrushes, toothpaste, floss, and even razors or small tubes — all neatly within arm’s reach. Compact and lightweight, it’s a smart way to stay tidy without cluttering your cabin.
A dry bag that will keep your valuable secure
Your passport, wallet and phone are your most precious items when disembarking at various stops on the itinerary. This waterproof gear pouch is compact yet surprisingly spacious — perfect for protecting your belongings. Its rugged shell and magnetic closure with electromagnetically‑welded seams ensure everything stays bone‑dry, even in humid, salty cruise environments.
Not stuck in the bottom of a backpack, It keeps your valuables easily accessible during shore excursions or deck time.
Some nicer silicone earplugs
They're lightweight, compact, and easy to clean, making them ideal for travel. While they don’t block out every sound — heavy snoring or conversations may still be faintly audible, they're still great to use every night.
Some Dramamine motion sickness relief
If you’re a first-time cruiser, you’re going to want to have this in your bag just in case. This classic OTC remedy contains 50 mg of dimenhydrinate per tablet and works quickly — typically within 30 minutes to an hour — to prevent nausea, dizziness, and vomiting caused by motion at sea. Effects last about four to eight hours, making it ideal for shorter excursions or sea days with occasional movement. It’s compact and easy to carry in your travel medicine bag — just pop a dose before embarkation or any choppy-shore activity.
Many cruisers recommend it as a cruise essential for staying comfortable and avoiding motion sickness during rough seas or windy shore launches.
A de-wrinkling spray
Irons are not allowed onboard, so this travel-sized spray is a compact powerhouse — perfect for cruisers who want a fresh outfit. It releases wrinkles in seconds with a quick spritz, tug, and hang, leaving clothes smooth, static-free, and lightly scented with a crisp linen freshness. You’ll be impressed how quickly your outfit can transform for a night out on the ship.
Poo-Pourri Before-You-Go toilet spray
This clever little bottle is a must-have for any cabin with bathrooms that have limited ventilation. Just a quick spritz before you do your business, and a natural blend of essential oils locks in odors before they start — no lingering scents, no embarrassing moments.
It’s travel‑small, TSA‑friendly, and really does the job when you're sharing tight quarters at sea when you can really use a breath of fresh air.
An Owala FreeSip that’s ideal for toting
Reusable water bottles are a must onboard. The Owala FreeSip’s patented lid is a standout — with a push-button flip-top that hides a straw for sipping, or lets you tilt back and chug through a wide-mouthed opening, all without needing to remove the lid.
Its double-wall stainless steel insulation keeps beverages icy for up to 24 hours — perfect for long days or laying out in the sun deck, while a locking lid ensures zero leaks even when tossed in a bag. There’s fun color options where you’ll be sure to get some compliments from fellow sailors.
A mini fan
Cruise cabins can get stuffy — especially after a hot day on shore — so a small handheld fan is one of my favorite underrated essentials. This one is compact, rechargeable, and surprisingly powerful for its size. It easily fits in your day bag for sun-soaked excursions or can double as your personal breeze while lounging on deck.
Bonus: it folds up and works as a mini desk fan for your nightstand or vanity in the cabin.
A first aid kit, just in case
You should always be prepared when traveling on a ship. This compact kit holds 80 essential items — including assorted adhesive bandages, cleansing wipes, Neosporin antibiotic ointment, sterile gauze pads, tape — packed into a durable, travel-ready plastic case. Perfect for treating minor scrapes, blisters, or cuts that can happen during excursions or busy sea days.
Some travel laundry bags
These lightweight yet heavy-duty nylon bags can store 3 to 4 loads of laundry each, making them ideal for week‑long voyages or multi-destination itineraries. The rip‑stop fabric and double-stitched seams resist tearing, while the locking drawstring closure helps reduce odors and prevents spills.
At the end of your trip, toss dirty laundry inside and hand it off if you opt for shipboard washing services, or stow it away compactly in your suitcase. Don’t hang your clothes on the balcony railing to dry because they might fly into the ocean!