When it comes to cruise ship cabins, most cruisers are met with small and basic accommodations. The decor is often designed to appeal to a wide range of tastes, with neutral or nautical colors and minimal distractions. Storage space is limited, and the bathrooms are usually far smaller than what you have at home. However, there are several hacks you can use to make your cruise cabin more livable, personalized, and less cluttered.
One of the easiest ways to personalize your cruise cabin is to bring items from home that bring you comfort. This could include your favorite pillow, pictures of loved ones, a teddy bear, or a throw blanket. If you’re traveling with children, let them bring a few of their favorite toys as well. Another fun hack is to bring an erasable magnetic-backed whiteboard and washable markers. This way, you can draw pictures and leave messages for your family or loved ones.
While real candles are not allowed on cruise ships, you can use battery-operated flameless candles to add a touch of romance to your cabin. These candles can also serve as nightlights. Don’t be afraid to move the furniture around in your cabin to create a configuration that works best for you. You can ask the crew for assistance if needed. Clear away any unnecessary objects that are taking up space, such as the coffee table or unused glasses.
When it comes to the bathroom supplies provided by the cruise ship, they may not be up to your standards. Consider bringing your own shampoo, conditioner, and body soap if you’re particular about the brands you use. If you prefer bar soap instead of shower gel, bring your own as well. You can also attach a hanging makeup or toiletry kit to the bathroom door to free up space around the sink and keep track of your supplies. Bring a plug-in or battery-operated nightlight to navigate the bathroom at night without disturbing your cabinmates.
Since you and your family will likely bring several electronics on the cruise, it’s important to have enough outlets to accommodate them all. Consider bringing an outlet extender without a surge protector, as surge protectors are banned by cruise lines. If you’re a light sleeper, bring a travel-sized sound machine or use a white noise app on your phone to drown out any noises that may keep you awake. Binder clips or paper clips can be used to keep the curtains drawn tight for those who prefer to sleep in.
Storage space is often limited in cruise ship cabins, so finding clever hacks to create more space is essential. Ask your cabin steward for more hangers if needed, and consider doubling up clothes on hangers to save space. Bring magnetic hooks that can stick to the metal walls of the cabin to hang bathrobes, hats, and other items. An over-the-door organizer can also be helpful for storing small items like socks and sunscreen. Use a laundry bag on the floor of the closet to keep dirty clothes separate from clean ones.
Finally, make use of the space under the bed by tucking your suitcases away. If you keep one suitcase open, you can use it as an additional drawer. Any unused items provided by the cruise, such as bathrobes or decorative pillows, can also be stored under the bed to free up space in the cabin.
By following these cruise cabin hacks, you can make your onboard accommodations more livable, personalized, and organized. Enjoy your cruise with a cabin that feels like a home away from home.