Given that cruise ships are floating hotels, first-time cruisers would be forgiven for thinking that they can simply pack as if they’re staying in one.
Wrong – as revealed here by travel experts, including one who’s been on over 90 cruises.
They point out a host of helpful tips tailored to making a first-ever voyage plain sailing – from hooks that work particularly well in cabins, and ‘game-changer’ clips for poolside, to the reason you should never forget your passport, even on a domestic trip.
Fill carry-ons with important items
Passengers should make sure they stuff their carry-on with items they think they’ll need during the first few hours of boarding, Dean Van Es, CEO of Fast Cover Travel Insurance, tells The Independent.
He explains: “Something first-timers might not know is that it can take hours for their checked bags to reach their rooms after they board.
“So, if they’re planning on heading straight to the pool but don’t have their bathing suit in their carry-on bag, they could be waiting a long time for a dip. The same goes for important items such as medications and phone chargers.”
Magnetic hooks
Magnetic hooks have a force of attraction for seasoned cruisers.
“Most people don’t realize that the walls of cruise ship cabins are made of metal,” reveals Don Bucolo, one half of the husband-and-wife team behind the travel blog and YouTube Channel Eat Sleep Cruise.
“We bring along magnetic hooks to help organize gear, such as day bags, coats, hats, and other clothing items.
“With limited storage in most cruise ship cabins, magnetic hooks can help create more space.”
Towel clips
The plastic towel clips that look like giant chip clips are “absolute game-changers by the pool”, says Don, who’s been on over 90 cruises.
He continues: “There’s nothing more frustrating than having your towel constantly slide off your deck chair, and these little clips solve that problem instantly. Plus, they help mark your spot when you step away from your lounger.”
Ziplock bags in various sizes
Ziplock bags may be mundane, says Don, but they are “incredibly versatile” and can be used to organize and protect a host of small items.
He notes: “We use them to organize toiletries, protect electronics from splashes,…
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