Are you ready to cruise? You probably have learned that unless you have booked a suite, cruise cabins are quite small but that is easily managed. This is my go-to Cruise Cabin Prep kit for preparing our cruise cabins for a fabulous week at sea. I’ve fine-tuned this over the years and I’m sure it will continue to evolve. I consider these items to be essential to kick off a fabulous week of vacation onboard a cruise ship.
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First, The cabin is always clean but I feel better taking it a step further. I like to grab my clean essentials and do a quick once-over and set up in the cabin.
Antibacterial wipes – MY MUST HAVE! Take a moment to wipe down the toilet seat, handle, faucet, light switches, TV remote, phone, and doorknobs. I use medical-grade Sono Disinfecting Wipes for cabins and planes and the regular Wet Ones for everyday use.
Now, let’s get everything set up.
Cruise Cabin Organization and “Fixers”
Magnetic Clips/Hooks – The cruise cabin walls are metal so magnets can be handy organizational tools. You can hang up your cruise schedule, lanyard, hat, notes, etc. I first heard about these “Super Strong Magnetic Hooks” from Sheri at CruiseTipsTv.com and she wasn’t kidding. They are intense. Thanks for the tip Sheri!
Update for 2023: These magnets are strong and even more compact/easier to pack!
Pop-Up Hamper – This is so easy to pack and helps keep the small room nice and tidy. This idea originated because my husband always wanted to have a bag to put dirty clothes in. The laundry bags provided are so tiny we started packing a pop up hamper years ago and it’s been great.
They are so inexpensive and easy to use. I use the side pocket to house the Shout Wipes, the Woolite and Downey wrinkle release as well.
Don’t forget to also store those suitcases under the bed. Here is a similar Pop-Up Hamper on Amazon but usually available at Dollar Tree.
Related: The Pop Up Hamper is one of my most purchased recommended items. Check out my other recommended travel favorites page.
Fabreeze – This little spray bottle is a life-saver! We use this to spray into our hamper midweek. My husband and I try to work out each morning so sweaty clothes need some Fabreeze love. If you travel with teenagers, you can thank me later.
“Fixers”– Travel sizes of Woolite, Downey Wrinkle Release (although I am not convinced it really takes out wrinkles) and Shout Wipe packets.
Clothes Pins – It’s easy to hang up more swimsuits on the retractable shower line with a few clothespins.
Value your Roommates – Poo-Pourri – because, well, you know. 😉 It’s so much nicer than aerosol sprays that are too strong.
Managing Chargers and Communication
USB/c Charging Hub – This may be your teenager’s favorite item on the list. This 6 USB-USBc port is perfect for charging a variety of items all at once. If you need additional outlets, this is a great option.
Pens, highlighter & Notepads – I love having these on hand to leave notes for family or for our room steward. You can also highlight your cruise schedule for the not to be missed events.
Thank You Cards – I enjoy writing a little note to our room steward and our waiters/waitresses to include with their extra tip. They provide excellent service and I think it’s the right thing to do.
Dollar bills – I put 10-20 single dollar bills in the desk drawer for easy access to tip room service, etc. We order coffee each morning from room service so I like to tip a couple of dollars each time.
Mini Flashlight – When our daughter was young she liked to keep this mini flashlight on the nightstand by her bed. It was perfect for a late-night trip to the bathroom without disturbing her brother. Now, years later, it still finds it’s way into the pouch. I’m a “safety-first” girl so it’s a good thing to have if needed. Battery-operated tea lights also make a great nightlight.
Cloth Mask – Although masks are currently not required, I tuck in a washable mask. If the pandemic taught us anything it’s that anything is possible.
Finally, I tuck my medicine pouch in the cabinet so that our family has easy access to pain reliever, allergy medication, tummy relief and all of our essentials.
Related: Staying Healthy on A Cruise
That’s it! I downsize this a bit when my husband and I cruise alone but this is typically what we need to keep our family of four in good shape for a 7-day cruise. It’s so handy having this cruise cabin prep kit ready for each trip. I restock anything that’s necessary when we unpack and it’s ready for that next cruise.
All of these items fit nicely into this small plastic zipper pouch with I include in my embarkation day bag. Read my What’s In My Embarkation Day Bag for all of the details.
Another important tip is to make sure to download the app for your cruise line before your cruise. Most cruise lines have an app now and it makes scheduling activities quick and easy!
Free Cruise Cabin Prep Kit Printable
Get your planning going with this Cruise Cabin Prep Kit Printable available to all subscribers. Haven’t subscribed yet? You may do so here. The password will be sent to you via email.
What are your must-haves for cabin organization? Comment below and share what helps you have a great cruise experience.
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