How to Pack for a Cruise: 10 Packing Hacks

Are you gearing up for that exciting cruise vacation, but the thought of packing overwhelms you? I've got you covered with some cruise packing hacks that will help your packing experience and ensure you set sail stress-free.

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My Packing Stress

Let me tell you about some of my cruise packing stresses. I cruise a lot, and yes, I still forget things. HAHA, one cruise, I forgot my laptop charger. I needed it because I work remotely while cruising, and before we boarded, I had Uber bring my charger up from my house and deliver it to me.

Luckily, I didn't live far from the port, but did you know that is something Uber will do? As long as you have someone at your house, they will pick up whatever item is needed and bring it to you. That really saved me on that trip!

Aside from forgetting things like chargers, socks, closed-toed shoes, and yes, even enough underwear at one point, I have been guilty of overpacking as well.

If you need help with packing and some packing ideas, check out my Free Ultimate Cruise Checklists, which includes a pre-cruise checklist, Caribbean, Alaska cruise packing lists, and more!

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1: Roll, Don't Fold

One of the oldest tricks in the book, yet often overlooked - rolling your clothes instead of folding them. Not only does this save space in your luggage, but it also helps prevent wrinkles. Imagine unpacking your suitcase on board and finding your clothes looking fresh and neat. Plus, rolling allows you to fit more items into your suitcase without exceeding the weight limit.

Now, for me, I much prefer packing cubes to stay organized. I know some people will still roll their clothes in their packing cubes, but I get the compression packing cubes, so I can just throw as many clothes in my packing cubes as needed.

2: Magnetic Hooks

Magnetic Hooks are a great way to stay organized in your cruise cabin. I love these and never cruise without them now. You can hang up your swimsuits, towels, bags, hats anything you need to help keep your small cabin organized.

3: Create a Capsule Wardrobe

To avoid overpacking and lugging around unnecessary items, consider creating a capsule wardrobe for your cruise. Choose versatile pieces that can be mixed and matched to create different outfits. Opt for lightweight, wrinkle-resistant fabrics that are perfect for the cruise environment. Check out my full packing list for ideas of what you should pack for your cruise.

4: Pack Essentials in Your Carry-On

While your main suitcase is safely stowed away, make sure to pack essential items in your carry-on bag. You should always have an embarkation day bag with all of your essentials. Include items such as medications, travel documents, a change of clothes, and any valuables. This is also a good idea to have with you while flying, as well in the unlikely event that your checked luggage is delayed or lost, you'll have peace of mind knowing that your essentials are with you.

Tip: Be sure to purchase travel insurance in case of lost luggage, cancellations or delays.

5: Use Travel-Size Containers

Instead of lugging around bulky full-size toiletries, transfer your favorite products into travel-size containers. This not only saves space in your luggage but also ensures compliance with airline regulations. Remember to secure the containers in a sealable plastic bag to prevent any leaks during transit.

I like to use a travel hanging toiletry bag. This keeps all of my toiletries separated in case of leakage and saves so much room in my cruise cabin bathroom.

Cruise Packing Hacks

My Alaska cruise, where I forgot to pack several essentials, such as a sweater for a July Alaskan Cruise.

6. Charger Block

Packing a charger block is a good idea, especially if you are cruising on an older cruise ship. Many cruise ships only have one outlet in the cabin room. Therefore, a charger block can help with multiple people in one room needing to charge all their devices.

Tip: Be sure to check with your cruise line to ensure a charger block is not on the prohibited list of items.

7. Portable Charger Bank

Along with a charger block, I highly recommend packing a portable charger bank. This not only gives more charging options in the room, but a portable charger bank is great to have when you are at the port or even when flying. I definitely make sure I don't forget this cruise essential now.

8. Hanging Shoe Organizer

The cruise cabin is small, especially when multiple people are sharing it, so a hanging shoe organizer can help to organize clothes and toiletries to give more space in the room.

Tip: Many of these don't hang over the cruise cabin bathroom doors well, so I hang mine up with my magnetic hooks. See I told you magnetic hooks are great to have!

9. Ziplock Baggies

You can use Ziplock baggies in a couple of ways. Pack your meds, jewelry, or first aid in them instead of buying an organizer. Also, I like having them grab a few cookies or snacks when I am out to bring back to my cabin. Room service isn't free after breakfast and doesn't run all day on most cruise ships. Having a snack in the room is nice to have.

10. Foldable Day Bag

Okay, this one may be one of my favorites. Pack a day bag that can easily be folded up in your suitcase. During your cruise, you can use this to head to the pool or use it out and about at the cruise ports.

When you get ready to pack up at the end of the trip, you can use this bag to hold your souvenirs. Depending on how many you purchased, you can pack them up in your suitcase in your bag or you can use this bag as your carry-on as you are embarking the cruise ship.

No matter how you choose to pack for your cruise, the key to successful packing is preparation and organization. Pack as little or as much as you would like, but as long as you are organized, you are set for smooth sailing.

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