Finding the perfect Holiday Gift Ideas for New Cruisers can feel like navigating uncharted waters—fun, a little mysterious, and maybe just a bit challenging. Think of it as arming them with essentials that bring comfort, convenience, or even a dash of adventure! With this guide, you’ll be helping them sail smoothly, make memories, and—who knows?—maybe even make a few “fun” waves along the way.
From cool gadgets for tech-savvy travelers to organization tools that make cramped cabins feel more like home, this list has a little something for every kind of cruiser. We’ve thought through the usual challenges of cruise life—limited space, the need for multitasking magic—so every gift here is travel-smart and ready to impress.
And don’t worry, there are gifts to fit all budgets, too!
This post may contain affiliate links. As an affiliate, I may earn a small commission if you click, purchase, or apply for an offer. This is at no extra cost to you.
Planning is Key for First-Time Cruisers
Let’s start with planning, which begins with my Ultimate Cruise Planner. I created this 56-page digital download to help people plan for their first cruise…or their 31st cruise. It is packed with tips, lists, and planning guides. You can print pages multiple times, allowing it to be used for as many trips as you can plan. I uploaded my .pdf to my Good Notes app so that I could utilize my planner digitally. I save a new copy for each of my cruises.
Flying to the cruise port?
Luggage—Luggage is an excellent and generous gift for any traveler. The Level 8 brand has gained popularity among frequent travelers and has an option for everyone. While airlines have their own limits and restrictions, the cruise industry does not currently limit the size, weight, or number of bags cruisers can take onboard. Just remember that luggage carried on (not delivered by the porters) needs to be carry-on size and able to fit through a security scanner.
TSA Bag(s)—Speaking of scanners, your new cruiser will want to be prepared for airport security if they are flying to their cruise. The 3.1.1. rule applies in U.S. airports, but you can really improve upon that quart-size storage bag with one of these TSA-approved sets.
Travelon Pouches—These small mesh pouches me stay organized. I use them for small items I like to have handy during my flight, such as chapstick, my AirPods, or essential chargers. These pouches are high quality, and the sizes are perfect. For a larger pouch and an adorable cruise gift, check out this one.
Packing cubes – Packing cubes are a great way to stay organized and pack efficiently. This set is from Amazon brand– or the very popular Bagail brand – with over 35,000 reviews. Many people unzip the packing cubes and place them directly in a drawer or on the closet shelf. What could be easier?
Compression cubes—Packing carry-on only? Opt for this set of compression cubes (shown below) to maximize your space. Compression cubes are especially helpful when packing for a cooler-weather cruise, such as an Alaskan or the Norwegian Fjords.
Personal item bag—Personal item bags seem most prevalent in two main categories: backpacks and tote styles. Both styles have advantages.
Backpack—I often opt for a backpack so that the weight is more evenly distributed and I can use my hands more freely. This backpack is similar to mine and very roomy with lots of pockets for organization. It also has a luggage strap, which is very important.
Totes come in all shapes and sizes, from small bags to larger duffels. The advantage of a tote bag is that it is generally easier to dig around in during your flight and can be easily organized with smaller pouches. I prefer and recommend a tote with a flat bottom because it is more sturdy (items are less likely to tumble out) and must also have a luggage sleeve.
I’ll share a couple of my top picks. It’s personal preference, and after 30+ cruises, I debate which one I’m packing each and every trip. Here’s a great tote with lots of organization. I like this multi-pocket tote is a great price and available in several colors or this best seller which is a little larger and has a separate compartment for shoes.
For me, the deciding factor is usually the length of the flight. If I’m flying 5+ hours, I bring tote so that I can more easily grab items during my flight. I always choose my backpack if I have relatively short flights and quick connections.
Apple Air Tags – I purchased this 4-pack for my family and have zero regrets.
Don’t forget the covers. You can have a color for each family member to identify which bag you are tracking easily. I tuck ours in the zipper pocket of our suitcase so that it doesn’t get lost during packing/unpacking.
Tray table cover and organizer—This is so cool! It folds up and packs away easily but is very useful. You can have your own “clean” command center for your flight. There is an area for your book or Kindle/iPad, a pen, AirPods, etc. This would be a game changer if you travel with kids, too! I’ve used an overpriced seat-back pocket organizer in the past, but this tray table cover and organizer combo is so much better!
Phone Prop—It’s just a fact of life anymore that we have our phones with us at all times, even on a flight. Use this easy-to-stash phone stand during the flight and bring along your own personal entertainment. I love that it comes in a few different colors because, you know, I had to order the pink.
Mini Fan—This little game-changer made my holiday list last year, and for good reason. I call it my “MacGyver” fan. IYKYK. This mini fan is rechargeable, powerful and portable. It can also be used as a flashlight and a portable charger. I love multi-use tools. Have you ever sat for an hour on the runway? It can get quite uncomfortable on the plane.
Prepare the cabin for a Fantastic vacation at Sea.
Little surprises new cruisers more than the size of the cruise cabin. Unless their budget allows for a suite, these holiday gift ideas for new cruisers will be very helpful for organizing their cabin and optimizing their space.
Magnetic hooks—Strong magnets are universally on everyone’s cruise must-have list. It’s not a “new item,” but I can’t make a list for new cruisers without including this super handy item.
Mini Box Fan—Okay, this is new to me, and I think it is incredibly clever. It has magnetic feet. It can attach to the walls or ceiling of the cruise cabin, keeping your cruiser cool and providing great air circulation. Check out this Magnetic Cruise Fan.
Hamper – This hamper is my ride-or-die. That may be a little dramatic, but I love it. Do you feel weird about gifting someone a hamper? Don’t. They will thank you. I was recently on a cruise with my mom, and we each brought our pop-up hamper. It kept us nice and organized, making packing to go home a breeze. Tip: Lay it flat in the bottom of the suitcase (or on top) instead of entirely collapsing it into a circle.
Personal Bluetooth speaker – While I disagree with blasting your personal music in public spaces, I do enjoy listening to our favorite tunes while in our cruise cabin. This tiny Bluetooth speaker is perfect for travel and has over 47k reviews on Amazon. A word of caution, Carnival Cruise Line has recently added Bluetooth speakers to their prohibited items list. So, please check your cruise line for their list.
Leather Valet Tray Organizer—This snap-together leather valet tray organizer packs flat and is quite helpful. After leaving a few important items in hotels throughout the years, I ordered this handy tray, and it has made keeping track of all of the little things much easier. I use this to hold my ring, earrings, and room key. My husband tosses his wallet and AirPods case in as well. The light interior makes items noticeable, and everything is in one space.
Multi-Charging Port—The search for the ideal multi-charging port is ongoing and evolves with new technology and cruise line restrictions. While newly built cruise ships have increased their available outlets and charging ports, older cruise ships require additional assistance. This is my current favorite and recommendation, and I believe it will serve the majority of cruisers. If you have extensive charging needs, pair this with the euro adapter, next on the list for game-changing charging capabilities.
Euro Adapter – All cruise ships have at least one European outlet and one North American outer. To fully utilize the electric capabilities, I use this Euro-adapter. It takes an otherwise unused outlet and turns it into my charging “hub” utilizing this multi-charging cable, which allows me to charge my phone, apple watch, Kindle, and more! Seriously, this particular Euro Adapter is my choice because the prongs fold in, making it ideal for compact travel.
Related Post: Cruise Cabin Prep Kit
Let’s Head to the Beach or Pool
Reef-friendly/Safe Sunscreen – Let’s keep our planet in mind while enjoying the beach. It really needs our help. Using reef-safe sunscreen is also the law in many popular vacation spots in Hawaii and the Virgin Islands. I recommend Sun Bum sunscreen and have for years. It’s reef-friendly, works great and smells like summer. I love it so much; it’s our daily sunscreen here at home, too. If we will be out snorkeling, I opt for an official reef-safe option like Blue Lizard.
Quick Dry Towel – Yes, towels are provided on the cruise ship. However, they can be big and bulky, and you will be charged a fee if they aren’t properly returned. My family has used these “pack towels” (choose the XL) for years and we love them. They take up very little space and our much easier to manage than the bulky cruise ship towels. Recently, I stumbled upon these towels, which are also travel winners. These two-pack sets come in charming designs that make them fun gifts.
Waterproof Pouch – While many cruisers love the water-proof phone pouch I have come to really like the larger waterproof pouch.
Water Shoes – If hiking water falls like Dunns River in Jamaica is on the wishlist, rugged sole water shoes would be an excellent gift. Water shoes vary in style and durability so choose the one that is best for your needs from this list of popular options.
Teva sandals – A few years ago, in my quest to become a more efficient packer, I purchased and have fallen in love with my Teva sandals (shown below). They are universally fantastic. I can hike and walk all day like I would in a sneaker, yet I feel the freedom or wearing sandals.
Kindle—This is truly the most thoughtful gift for the reader on your list. It’s a fantastic travel companion and so much easier than packing books. I love reading squint-free in the sun while lounging on the beach or in bed at night without needing a lamp. I never travel without my Kindle.
Cover-Ups – While swimsuits can be a difficult gift to purchase (am I right, ladies?) coverups can be a great gift idea. Cover-ups can range from short and sheer to ones that serve double duty as a cute summer dress. While my favorite is this one from Tommy Bahama, there are a ton of great cover -up options on Amazon.
Holiday Gift Ideas for New Cruisers Perfect for a Day in Port
Foldable Backpack – My family has used foldable backpacks for years! We call them our excursion bags and we each have our own color. They are lightweight, have plenty of storage, and keep us hands-free and ready to explore. The Waterfly brand also has a ton of great options for sling bags as well which are great for sightseeing in Europe.
Cute Tote – Off for a little shopping and sightseeing? This canvas tote is a great addition to any cruise packing list. I even use mine when exploring the ship!
Poncho – What is that expression? Sometimes in life, it rains. That’s undoubtedly true, but who wants to pack a bulky rain jacket for a “just in case”? Grab a few easy-to-pack ponchos and toss them in your day bag if there is a chance of rain. Honestly, this is not your typical clear or bright yellow poncho; this one comes in many colors and prints, so have a little fun!
Selfie Stick – It’s truly amazing what you can do with the help of a selfie stick. On our recent Alaskan cruise, we saw a large family capture a beautiful photo of their group with the majestic mountains in the background. They used their phone and a selfie stick sitting on a picnic table.
Go Pro or DJI Osmo pocket Camera – Is there an adventurous cruiser on your list? Help them to capture all of the action with a Go Pro or Osmo Pocket Camera.
Staying Healthy
Seasickness can be a big concern for new cruisers. While it’s more rare than one might think, motion sickness is real and cruisers should be prepared. If motion sickness is common, this popular patch may be just what is needed. If it’s an unknown, be prepared with Bonine or Dramamine. Personally, I rarely get seasick but i often get carsick and travel prepared for excursions, etc.
Hydration packs –Hydration Packs have become very popular. If you consider the many cruises to the hot and humid Caribbean and possible alcohol consumption, these can be very beneficial.
First Aid Kit – TSA approved, this travel first aid kit covers the basics.
Over-the-counter medications—No one wants or expects to feel ill while traveling, but hey, headaches or stomach upset happen, and no one wants to search for relief when they feel poorly. A few helpful over-the-counter medications brought from home can indeed save the day. This organizer makes being prepared easy on cruisers!
Cruise line gift cards—Cruise line gift cards make excellent gifts. They can help your friend or family member purchase that drink package or dream excursion.
I hope you have found this list helpful and you are overflowing with Holiday Gift Ideas for New Cruisers on your list. (shh, even if that cruiser is YOU!) I believe that there is a gift (or gifts) that fits all holiday budgets. Maybe your budget allows for a large generous gift such as luggage and Kindle or GoPro. My budget is usually much smaller and I like to create a goodie bag full of several small but helpful gifts for the new cruiser on my list. And remember to share this post with a friend!
Let’s Connect
Pin for Later!
