Getting on a cruise ship was the best decision me and my now fiance made. Our trip was truly a magical experience – ultimate relaxation and activities that we didn’t have to plan. With that being said, there are some things I wish I knew before I took my first cruise those years ago. As we get ready to board our next cruise, it made me think of all of the things I’m so grateful I know now. After all of the travels I’ve done, I really do recommend taking a chance on a cruise ship at least once. If you’re one the fence, here are 15 things I wish I knew when I went on my first cruise. Maybe that will help you decide if cruising is right for you.
Author: JoAnne Lauren
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15 Things First Time Cruisers Should Know
1. Protect Your Cruise Luggage Tags
Before boarding, cruise lines require luggage tags to be attached to your bags so crew members can deliver them to your cabin. Many cruise lines provide paper tags, which can easily rip or get wet during travel. Using cruise luggage tag holders helps keep them protected and ensures your luggage safely reaches your room. We got luggage tags that are impossible to lose. The luggage tags come with locaters in case the luggage gets lost in transit. Of course all luggage tags will do, but I would at least get one that is waterproof!
Check out the price for anti-loss luggage tags on Amazon
2. Cruise Cabin Walls Are Magnetic
Many first-time cruisers are surprised to learn that most cruise cabin walls are metal. This means magnetic hooks are incredibly useful for hanging hats, swimsuits, backpacks, or lanyards. They help create extra storage space in smaller cabins and keep everything organized during your trip.
3. Motion Sickness Can Happen
Modern cruise ships are large and stable, but rough seas can still happen occasionally. Some travelers prefer bringing motion sickness wristbands just in case. These apply gentle pressure to a specific point on the wrist and can help reduce nausea for some people. This is going to be especially helpful if you go on an excursion where you’re on a smaller boat.
Check out the price for motion sickness wristbands here
4. Organization Makes Small Cabins Feel Bigger
Cruise cabins are usually smaller than hotel rooms, so staying organized helps a lot. Packing cubes make it easier to separate clothes, swimwear, and accessories while maximizing space in your luggage.
Check out the price for packing cubes here
5. Cabin Outlets Are Limited
Many cruise cabins only have a few electrical outlets. Bringing a cruise-approved power strip (without surge protection) allows you to charge phones, cameras, and other devices at the same time. Another option is a portable phone charger. That way you can charge your portable charger when you’re out of your cabin, then use it to charge your phone in the cabin freeing up outlets for other devices you might want.
6. Your Cruise Card Is Very Important
Your cruise key card acts as your room key, onboard payment method, and identification while on the ship. Many travelers use a cruise lanyard so they always have their card handy without worrying about losing it.
7. Protect Your Phone Around Water
Cruises often include beach days, pool time, and water excursions. A waterproof phone case protects your phone from water and sand while still allowing you to take photos.
8. Staying Hydrated Is Important
Between the sun, sea air, and activities, it’s easy to become dehydrated. Bringing a reusable water bottle helps you stay hydrated while walking around the ship or exploring ports.
9. Wrinkles Can Happen in Luggage
Cruise ships usually don’t allow irons for safety reasons. A small bottle of wrinkle-release spray is a simple way to remove wrinkles from clothing before dinner or formal nights.
Check out the price for wrinkle spray here
10. Laundry Isn’t Always Convenient
Some cruises offer laundry services, but they can be expensive. Packing travel laundry detergent packets allows you to wash small items in the sink if needed. Another option is packing drier sheets in your luggage between clothes to keep your luggage smelling fresh.
11. Storage Space Can Be Limited
Cabin storage is limited, so many cruisers bring an over-the-door organizer to store toiletries, sunscreen, shoes, and accessories. This is especially helpfull when. you have wet swimsuits or if you want to lay out formal clothes for the formal nights.
Check out the price for travel hangers on Amazon
12. You’ll Use Your Phone a Lot
Between photos, maps, and cruise apps, your phone battery can drain quickly. A portable phone charger ensures you stay powered during long days exploring ports or taking photos on deck.
Check out the price of this ultra-slim portable phone charger
13. The Sun Can Be Strong at Sea
Cruise ships spend a lot of time in sunny destinations, and you’ll likely spend time on deck or at the beach. Travel-size sunscreen is essential for protecting your skin during your trip.
14. Excursions Require Extra Gear
When visiting ports, you may want to bring towels, water, and sunscreen. A collapsible beach bag is perfect for carrying essentials while exploring beaches or port towns. Grab one made of mesh fabric or something that can easily fit with the rest of your luggage. I would not recommend cloth fabric because it can get wet and meldew.
Check out the price of this mesh beach bag on Amazon
15. Be Prepared for Small Emergencies
A small travel first aid kit is always useful during travel. Minor cuts, blisters, or headaches can happen during excursions, and having basic supplies on hand makes dealing with them easy. You can purchase basic first aid needs on the boat, but be prepared to pay triple the price.