10 Easy Ways to Make Your Next Cruise Even Better ✨

Whether you’re cruising for the first time or planning your third trip this year (hi, it’s me 🙋‍♀️), there are little things that can seriously level up your entire experience. I’ve gathered 10 of my favorite easy, affordable, and often-overlooked cruise tips that will have you sailing smoother than ever.

1. Bring a Whiteboard + Marker for Your Cabin Door

Perfect for sweet notes, funny doodles, or leaving messages for your travel crew when you're off doing your own thing. It's especially helpful for families, girls' trips, or multi-room groups trying to coordinate onboard.

Most cabin walls are magnetic, so you can stick it right up inside your room. BONUS TIP: Bring magnetic door decorations to help your cabin stand out in a sea of identical doors—fun and functional! Several varieties are available online.

2. Magnet Hooks = Extra Storage Magic

Ship walls are metal! Use magnet hooks to hang hats, swimsuits, belt bags, or even your cruise lanyard. Trust me—your cabin will instantly feel more organized.

💡 What to look for: Pick hooks that hold at least 15–25 lbs for heavier items like day bags or fans. For lightweight stuff (hats, jewelry, lanyards), 5–10 lbs is plenty. Just make sure they’re neodymium or heavy-duty magnets—basic dollar store ones won’t hold on a moving ship.

3. Use Collapsible Hangers for More Closet Space

Cruise closets are notorious for being compact—and the ship usually provides just a few basic hangers. If you plan to hang dresses, nicer outfits, or wrinkle-prone fabrics, collapsible hangers are a game-changer.

🧳 Why they work: They fold down flat to take up almost no room in your luggage, then pop open into full-size hangers once you're onboard. Some even have extra hooks or clips for tank tops, skirts, or pants. You’ll instantly add functionality to your tiny cabin closet without sacrificing packing space.

Perfect for:

• Formal night outfits

• Linen or silk clothing

• Damp swimsuits you want to dry in the closet

• Keeping outfits organized by day

👉 Shop My Favorite Collapsible Hangers on Amazon

4. Don’t Sleep on a Good Carry-On Strategy

Your checked luggage might take a few hours to make its way to your cabin, so treat your carry-on like your first-day survival kit. Pack it with everything you’ll want right away so you can hit vacation mode the second you step on board.

Here’s what to include:

• Swimsuit + coverup

• Sunscreen + sun hat

• Comfy sandals

• Medications + phone charger

• Printed boarding documents + luggage tags

• Passport or ID + birth certificate, depending on your itinerary

✨ Pro tip: I wear my swimsuit under my embarkation outfit and head straight to the pool deck. Most people are still exploring, so the hot tubs and loungers are wide open. After that? I plan on an early buffet dinner and catch a show on night one—full cruise experience unlocked before my suitcase even arrives. 💁‍♀️

5. Download Your Cruise Line’s App + Explore It

Most lines have their own app now. You’ll use it to:

• Check in

• View daily schedules

• Book shows and excursions

• Track spending

• Even open your room in some cases

Bonus points if you pre-purchase internet, since you’ll likely need it for embarkation and boarding.

6. Packing MVPs You’ll Wish You Knew Sooner

Here’s what’s actually in my suitcase every time I sail:

• Cutie Patootie Cup Handle – For your giant ship drink cups (you’re welcome)

• Magnetic Room Fan – Helps with airflow and keeps you cool

• Lanyard – For your cruise card/key so you’re not constantly digging through bags

• Long charging cords + multi-USB port – Because outlets are scarce and always across the room

• Passport/ID organizer – Keeps documents, boarding passes, and birth certificates tidy. Choose one with RIDF protection. THIS is a link to mine!

• Comfortable shoes – I bring three: one for the pool, one for exploring ports, and one for dinner. All comfortable!

• Luggage tag covers – Save your paper tags from getting ripped off in transit.

7. Buy the Drink Package Early + Reprice If It Drops

Most cruise lines let you cancel and rebook drink packages at the lower price. It’s a game-changer, especially if you’re cruising after a big sale. Check around major holidays like New Year's, Labor Day, and ESPECIALLY Black Friday for discounts.

8. Join a Facebook Roll Call Group Before You Sail

Roll calls are the perfect place to connect with fellow cruisers, ask questions, plan meet-ups, or just stalk the vibe of your sailing in advance.

9. Treat Yourself to a Belt Bag

Cruising without one? Couldn’t be me. It's perfect for excursions, boarding days, or just hitting the pool deck—hands-free and secure for your essentials.

10. Book Through a Travel Agent (Hi, it’s me 🛳️)

Cruising is better when it’s personal. I offer curated packing lists, insider tips, and travel confidence you can’t get from a booking engine. Let me take the stress off your plate so you can focus on the adventure.

✨ Want a personalized cruise tip sheet or help planning your next trip? Click here to connect with me or take the CRUISE with PIE Quiz to see what kind of vacation you need right now 🎀