Cruising for the first time can be overwhelming, but with a few smart strategies, you can make your trip more enjoyable, budget-friendly, and stress-free. Here are 20 essential cruise travel hacks for new cruisers to help you make the most of your voyage.
1. Book Early or Last Minute
Booking early can secure you the best cabin options and sometimes offer discounts. Alternatively, last-minute deals can save you big if you’re flexible with dates and destinations.
2. Choose the Right Cabin
If you’re prone to seasickness, opt for a midship cabin on a lower deck. For budget-conscious travelers, interior cabins are the most affordable option.
3. Download the Cruise Line’s App
Most cruise lines offer apps that include daily schedules, restaurant menus, and excursion details. It’s a convenient way to plan your day.
4. Pack a Carry-On Bag
Your luggage may take a few hours to arrive at your cabin on embarkation day. Pack essentials like swimwear, sunscreen, medications, and a change of clothes in a carry-on. My favorite luggage I’ve purchased is from Traveler’s Choice. They have a ton of hard-shell luggage options!
5. Bring a Power Strip or USB Hub
Cabins often have limited outlets. A cruise-approved power strip or USB hub can help you keep all your devices charged. We recently purchased these on Amazon, and they worked great! Check your cruise line’s updated policies on charging/outlet ports.
6. Use Magnetic Hooks
Cabin walls are usually metal. Magnetic hooks can provide extra hanging space for towels, hats, and lanyards. I used these on my last cruise, and they were great for hats, towels, kids bathing suits, etc.
7. Research Drink Packages
If you plan to drink multiple alcoholic or specialty beverages daily, a drink package might save you money. If not, pay-as-you-go may be more cost-effective.
8. Bring a Refillable Water Bottle
Stay hydrated by bringing a reusable water bottle. Some ships even allow you to fill them at water stations. If they don’t offer this, you may be able to purchase a case of water for your cabin. Royal Caribbean cruise line offers this, and it’s great!
9. Pack Seasickness Remedies
Even if you’ve never experienced motion sickness, it’s better to be prepared with remedies like ginger candies, wristbands, or medication. Many cruisers wear a prescription sea sickness prevention patch behind their ear, or bring dramamine onboard. I haven’t tried these patches personally, but they get a ton of positive reviews on Amazon and you don’t need a prescription!
10. Arrive at the Port a Day Early
Avoid the stress of missing your ship due to travel delays by arriving at the port city at least a day before embarkation.
11. Check Out Shore Excursions in Advance
Some popular shore excursions sell out quickly. Book them early through the cruise line or independent providers for the best selection.
12. Use Room Service Wisely
Many cruise lines offer complimentary room service for certain items. Breakfast in your cabin can save time on busy port days.
13. Label Your Luggage
Attach a unique tag or ribbon to your bags to make them easy to identify during embarkation and disembarkation. I also add an Apple air tag to the inside of my bag to help track it in case it gets lost.
14. Bring a Lanyard
Cruise cards serve as your room key and onboard payment method. A lanyard makes it easy to keep it handy at all times. Amazon has a ton of them, or you can purchase them on the ship.
15. Don’t Overpack
Cabin storage is limited, so pack versatile clothing you can mix and match. Laundry services are often available if needed.
16. Use the Spa on Port Days
Spa treatments are often discounted on port days when many passengers are off the ship. If you plan to use the spa for a service, head there first on embarkation day. Appointments get filled up quickly!
17. Bring Snacks for Kids
If you’re cruising with kids, pack non-perishable snacks for shore excursions or when you’re between meals. (Some examples are fruit/veggie pouches, applesauce pouches, granola bars, pretzel bags, goldfish, dried fruit, shelf-stable yogurt pouches, shelf-stable milk, etc.)
18. Take Advantage of Free Activities
The ultimate cruise travel hack is taking advantage of the free activities on board. Cruises offer plenty of complimentary activities like trivia, dance classes, and live shows. Check the daily schedule for options.
19. Secure Your Valuables
Keep passports, cash, and other valuables in your cabin’s safe. Avoid taking unnecessary valuables ashore.
20. Plan for Disembarkation
Pack your bags the night before and follow the ship’s instructions for a smooth departure. Consider self-assist disembarkation if you want to leave early.
I hope these cruise travel tips and travel hacks help you on your next cruise! Let me know in the comments if there are any others you use for your vacations.
