20 Free Things You Can Get from Guest Services on a Cruise (Just Ask!)

Cruises are packed with surprises, but not all of them come with a price tag. Tucked away behind the Guest Services desk is a treasure trove of complimentary perks that most passengers don’t even realise exist. The trick? You just need to ask.

From handy extras to small luxuries, here are 20 totally free things you can request from Guest Services on your next cruise.

This image shows the Guest Services area on the Carnival Jubilee cruise ship. The space features a sleek, modern design with multiple service desks lined up beneath a ceiling with a blue sky and cloud motif. Elegant, decorative light fixtures hang above the counters, which are softly illuminated from underneath. A large screen on the left displays information about the ship's sensory-inclusive certification, while another screen on the right shows additional guest information. The floor is covered in a patterned carpet with blue, brown, and white accents.

1. Seasickness Tablets

Guest Services often keeps a stash of basic over-the-counter seasickness tablets they’re happy to hand out. They’re not always advertised and supplies can be limited, so ask early if you think you might need them. If you’re prone to motion sickness, bring your own just in case.

Many cruise lines, including Royal Caribbean and MSC, offer free basic meds if you ask at Guest Services or the Medical Centre. They might be generic brands like meclizine, but they’ll usually do the trick.

2. Replacement Cruise Cards

Close-up of a Royal Caribbean Gold Member SeaPass card displaying the ship name 'M/S NAVIGATOR OF THE SEAS', the guest's name 'HANNAH', dining details, and the non-smoking stateroom status.

Lost your cruise card somewhere between the buffet and the hot tub? It happens. Guest Services can usually print you a replacement for free, although if it happens too often, expect some light teasing.

Tip: bring a lanyard or badge holder to avoid losing it in the first place. Most ships sell them onboard, but it’s cheaper to pack your own.

3. Help Connecting to WiFi

Struggling to get online? Guest Services can often help with basic issues like logging into the ship’s app, activating WiFi packages, or resetting your login. It’s worth trying here before you queue at a dedicated tech desk.

Many guests encounter issues after switching devices or logging out mid-cruise. Guest Services is usually the first stop for quick fixes.

Blurred view through a yellow translucent surface with the words 'FREE WIFI' visible in focus, suggesting a cozy ambiance possibly in a café or public space offering complimentary internet access.

4. Emergency Laundry Help

Spilled red wine on your formal night outfit? Guest Services might be able to help with a quick fix, like stain wipes, a safety pin, or even a fast spot clean.

They won’t handle a full load of laundry, but they’re usually happy to help with a one-off clothing emergency.

5. Luggage Repairs

Got a broken zip or a dodgy suitcase wheel? Larger ships often have maintenance teams that can help. Drop your luggage at Guest Services, and they may be able to fix it within a day or two.

It’s not guaranteed, but a simple repair can save you money and hassle after disembarkation.

A cheerful young woman in casual attire listens to music on her phone while walking with a rolling suitcase, exemplifying the ease of modern travel.

6. Printing Documents

Need to print out boarding passes, visa confirmations, or excursion tickets? Guest Services can usually print a few pages for free. Just be reasonable—they won’t run off your entire 50-page insurance policy.

Be clear about what you need, and staff are usually more than happy to help.

7. Extra Towels or Blankets

Feeling cold in your cabin or need more towels after a swim? Guest Services can organise extras via housekeeping.

Families with kids can also request bed rails, waterproof sheets, or extra blankets for sofa beds. Room stewards can help too, but if you can’t find them, Guest Services is your next best bet.

8. Hypoallergenic Pillows

Got allergies? Ask for hypoallergenic pillows. They’re not just for suites—Guest Services can usually provide them if you mention a sensitivity or preference.

On some luxury ships, pillow menus are standard. But even on mainstream lines, a quick request is often all it takes.

9. Earplugs or Sleep Aids

Cruise ships can be noisy, whether it’s neighbours chatting, hallway traffic, or the ship’s engine. Some ships offer free earplugs or sleep masks if you request them at Guest Services.

If noise is a big issue, they might even try to relocate you to a quieter cabin, depending on availability.

A close up photo of someone holiding a set of orange ear plugs.

10. Loaner Fan

Interior rooms can feel stuffy. Many ships have a small number of portable fans available on request—first come, first served.

If you’re someone who sleeps better with airflow or white noise, this small item can make a big difference. A magnetic hook helps with positioning, as cabin walls are usually metal.

11. Plug Adaptors

Forgot your adaptor? Guest Services may have a stash of international adapters available to borrow. This is especially helpful if your cabin only has US outlets.

Modern ships often include USB ports, but not always USB-C or UK/EU sockets—so it’s worth asking.

12. Phone Chargers

Guest Services sometimes has a collection of lost-and-found phone chargers. If yours is missing or broken, they might be able to loan you one for your cruise.

Just be sure to return it before disembarkation to keep the goodwill flowing.

13. Daily News Digests

If you like to keep up with the news, ask Guest Services for a printed digest. Some cruise lines, like Cunard and Viking, provide these automatically; others only offer them by request.

It’s a small touch, but a good one if you want to stay informed without buying a WiFi package.

A metal wall-mounted holder labeled “Daily News” contains a copy of the Times Digest by The New York Times, with a visible headline about shaping crypto policy. The sign reads “Please do not remove from area,” indicating this is part of the cruise ship daily news service for passengers.

14. Ship Maps

Even experienced cruisers can get lost on today’s massive ships. Guest Services often has printed ship maps available, even if the cruise line pushes their app.

If you prefer paper over pixels, just ask.

15. Stationery

Whether it’s a thank-you note or a reminder for your cabin door, Guest Services can often provide pens, paper, and envelopes. Handy for writing postcards or scrapbooking.

These branded bits of stationery also make nice, free keepsakes.

16. Celebration Surprises

A family celebration with champagne on board Oasis of the Seas, featuring a man in a floral shirt, two smiling women, and a close-up of a hand holding a drink, set against a cabin backdrop with vibrant artwork.

Celebrating a birthday, anniversary, or honeymoon? Let Guest Services know. While they’ll offer paid packages, you might still get a small surprise like a balloon, cake slice, or towel decoration.

Mention your occasion early for the best chance of a little onboard magic.

17. Postcard Drop-Off

Picked up a postcard in port? If it’s stamped, Guest Services will often post it for you. No need to hunt down a mailbox on shore.

It’s a small gesture, but one that helps you stay connected with family and friends at home.

18. Playing Cards

This image shows a close-up of a group of people playing cards, with one person holding a hand of cards featuring three aces and a ten. The wooden table and scattered cards suggest a casual and friendly game in progress.

Looking to pass the time on a sea day or during a quiet evening in your cabin? Ask Guest Services if they have a deck of playing cards. Many cruise lines keep branded card packs on hand that they’ll give away for free or loan out for the duration of the cruise.

They’re perfect for games of solitaire, Go Fish with the kids, or even a casual tournament with friends at the bar. Some guests collect these as souvenirs too—they often come with the ship’s name and logo.

19. Cabin Upgrades (With a Bit of Luck)

You never know unless you ask. One of the oldest tricks in the book is simply enquiring about a cabin upgrade at check-in, or even once you’re on board. If someone no-shows or disembarks early, a better cabin might become available.

That said, it’s rare, especially on fully booked cruises and most upgrades are offered in advance for a fee. But if you’re polite, friendly, and flexible, Guest Services might just surprise you. Don’t expect it, but it never hurts to ask.

A photo of a Deluxe Porthole Balcony Stateroom

20. Sports Equipment

From basketballs to table tennis bats, Guest Services is usually where to go if you want to borrow sports gear. Many ships also have mini golf or shuffleboard that require equipment.

No deposit, no hassle, just return everything when you’re done.

Final Thoughts

Guest Services is more than a help desk. It’s a gateway to little-known perks that can make your cruise more comfortable, memorable, and enjoyable.

The golden rule? Be polite, don’t expect, and don’t demand. Ask kindly, and you might walk away with something that makes your day at sea just that little bit better.

Got a freebie not listed here? Let us know—we’re always looking to add to the list!