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Travel Essentials

What I Actually Pack for a Cruise

Some links in this post are affiliate links. If you shop through them, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only recommend things I'd actually pack myself.

Cruise ship staterooms are small and cleverly designed, and a few additions make them work a lot better. These are the things I bring that the ship doesn't provide.


Magnetic Hooks, 20-pack

Magnetic Hooks, 20-pack

Cruise ship walls are metal, which means they're magnetic. These hooks stick directly to the wall and give you places to hang hats, bags, lanyards, and anything else that would otherwise pile up on the desk or the floor. Twenty is more than enough for two people, and they're small and flat to pack.

Get this for your next trip


Waterproof Phone Pouch

Waterproof Phone Pouch

For shore excursions near water, snorkeling, beach days, or anywhere you want your phone accessible without risking it. Keeps it dry and usable through the screen.

Get this for your next trip


GORILLA GRIP Over the Door Organizer

GORILLA GRIP Over the Door Organizer

The cruise cabin trick I tell everyone about. Hang it over the bathroom or stateroom door and it instantly creates pockets for sunscreen, toiletries, medications, and everything else that competes for the two square inches of counter space a ship bathroom gives you. The room stays cleaner and you can actually find what you need.

Get this for your next trip


Retractable Waterproof Lanyard with ID Badge Holder

Retractable Waterproof Lanyard with ID Badge Holder

Your cruise card is what you use for everything on the ship: boarding, dining, getting back on at every port. A retractable waterproof lanyard keeps it around your neck and extends when you need to scan it, so you're not digging through a bag every time. Waterproof matters on pool days and wet shore excursions.

Get this for your next trip


That's what I bring on every cruise, beyond what the ship provides. Small additions, real difference.

If anything here made it into your cart, thank you. It helps keep Sunshine and Travel running, and it won't cost you anything extra.

Happy travels.

Jen