Let’s be honest, cruise ship cabins aren’t exactly sprawling mansions at sea. Whether you’re booked into an inside cabin or splashing out on a balcony, space is at a premium.
With a few clever hacks, you can transform even the cosiest cabin into a comfortable, organised haven. Here are 30 tried-and-tested cabin hacks that cruisers swear by.
1. Book Two Inside Cabins Instead of One Balcony
If you’re travelling with family or friends, booking two inside cabins instead of one balcony room can be a game-changer. Not only will you get significantly more living space, but you’ll also have the luxury of two bathrooms – a real blessing when everyone is trying to get ready at the same time!
Often, the cost of two inside cabins is comparable to or even cheaper than a single balcony room, making it a wise choice for those who prioritise comfort and convenience over a private balcony view. Plus, you can still enjoy the stunning scenery from the public decks whenever you like.
2. Store Suitcases Under the Bed
After unpacking, tuck your bags away neatly under the bed to keep your limited cabin floor space clear and uncluttered. Most cruise ship beds are designed with enough clearance to fit standard-sized suitcases underneath without any issues.
If you’re travelling with multiple bags, consider using nesting luggage, where smaller suitcases fit inside larger ones, to save even more space. You can also stash backpacks, shopping bags, or even a folded stroller under there, freeing up room for you to relax without tripping over piles of stuff.
3. Bring Magnetic Hooks
Cruise ship walls are metal! Magnetic hooks are an absolute lifesaver for keeping your cabin organised. Use them to hang hats, bags, jackets, lanyards, swimsuits, and even lightweight backpacks, freeing up drawer and closet space.
They’re also perfect for hanging up your daily itinerary or excursion tickets, so you can grab them easily when you head out. Just make sure you buy strong, heavy-duty hooks that can hold a decent amount of weight — some cheaper options may slide down the walls if overloaded.
4. Use a Hanging Shoe Organiser
A hanging shoe organiser is a game-changer for cruise cabins, where counter and drawer space is often minimal. Hang it over the bathroom door or inside a closet to create instant pockets for storing toiletries, shoes, tech cables, sunscreen, sunglasses, hairbrushes, jewellery, and even snacks.
It’s a brilliant way to keep all your essentials easily accessible and out of the way on tiny counters. Choose a lightweight, foldable organiser that won’t damage doors and can be easily packed away when not in use. This simple hack can make your cabin feel much more spacious and organised throughout your cruise.
5. Ask to Remove Unwanted Furniture
Cruise cabins are often furnished with small tables, chairs, or even extra side tables, which can make the space feel cramped, especially when sharing the room with others. If a piece of furniture is getting in your way or making it difficult to move around comfortably, don’t hesitate to ask your cabin steward if it can be removed.
While not every request can be accommodated, depending on storage space on the ship, stewards are usually happy to help create a more functional layout for your stay. This small change can make a big difference in how spacious and relaxing your cabin feels.
6. Split the Beds for Extra Space
Separating the beds can open up more floor space, especially in inside cabins where every inch counts. By splitting the beds into two twins instead of keeping them as one large bed, you create a wider walking path and better access to storage areas, such as closets and the vanity.
This arrangement can make your cabin feel noticeably less cramped, giving each person more personal space, which is particularly helpful when travelling with friends or family members. Just ask your cabin steward upon arrival, and they’ll happily rearrange the beds for you.
7. Bring a Long Charging Cable
Outlets aren’t always near the bed, so a long cord is a lifesaver. Many older cruise ships only have a couple of plug sockets, often located by the vanity or desk area, far from where you sleep.
Having a long charging cable means you can easily charge your phone overnight and still keep it within arm’s reach, perfect for setting alarms, checking the time, or scrolling in bed. Look for a durable cable of at least 6 feet in length, and consider bringing a spare just in case. This simple addition can make your cabin setup much more convenient.
8. Pack a European Power Adapter or USB Hub
Older ships often come with a very limited number of power sockets, and many of those that are available may be awkwardly placed or difficult to access from your bed. To make sure all your devices stay charged without arguments over plugs, bring a European power adapter and a USB hub.
Some cruise cabins have both American and European outlets, and having an adapter allows you to use both. A USB hub can let you charge multiple phones, tablets, smartwatches, and e-readers from just one outlet. Just remember that traditional surge-protected power strips are banned on most cruise lines, so opt for cruise-approved multi-port USB chargers instead.
9. Bring a Motion Sensor Night Light
No more stubbing your toe on the way to the bathroom at 2am. Cruise ship cabins can get incredibly dark at night, especially in inside rooms with no natural light. A small, battery-operated motion sensor night light can make all the difference, gently illuminating your way without disturbing your cabin mates.
These lights are easy to pack, take up hardly any space, and can be stuck to the wall or placed on a nightstand. It’s a simple, inexpensive addition that will make those middle-of-the-night trips to the bathroom much safer and more comfortable.
10. Steam Clothes in the Bathroom
Hang wrinkled clothes in the bathroom and let the steam from a hot shower work its magic. Cruise cabins don’t allow irons or steamers for safety reasons, but you can still freshen up your outfits easily. Simply hang your clothes on a hanger and place them near the shower while you run the hottest water possible.
Shut the door to trap the steam inside. After about 10–20 minutes, your clothes should look much less creased. This is a quick, easy, and totally free way to avoid looking rumpled for formal nights, dinners, or photo opportunities on board.
11. Bring Air Freshener
Trust us: a little Poo-Pourri or air freshening spray goes a long way in small bathrooms. Cruise ship cabins, especially inside cabins, have compact bathrooms with limited ventilation, which can lead to lingering odours.
Packing a travel-sized air freshener can help keep your bathroom smelling fresh and pleasant throughout your cruise. Products like Poo-Pourri, which you spray directly into the toilet before use, are particularly effective and discreet. A fresh-smelling cabin makes a huge difference in comfort, especially when sharing the space with others.
12. Download Movies and TV Shows Before You Sail
Onboard Wi-Fi can be patchy (and pricey), and streaming services are often unreliable at sea due to bandwidth limitations and regional restrictions. To avoid buffering frustrations, download your favourite TV shows, films, podcasts, or audiobooks before you leave home.
Make sure your apps allow for offline viewing and double-check that everything has downloaded properly. Having your own library of entertainment ready means you can enjoy cosy evenings in your cabin or have something to watch during long sea days without relying on the ship’s slow internet.
13. Use Packing Cubes
Packing cubes are one of the best investments you can make for a cruise. They allow you to neatly organise your clothes by type or outfit, making it incredibly easy to unpack and keep your cabin tidy. Instead of digging through your suitcase for that one top or pair of shorts, you can simply pull out the cube you need and place it straight into the drawer or closet.
Packing cubes also compress your clothes slightly, saving precious suitcase space. Many cruisers even colour-code their cubes — one for swimwear, one for evening outfits, one for casual clothes — to make getting ready faster and easier. Plus, if you’re sharing a cabin, it helps keep everyone’s belongings separate and organised!
14. Pack Your Own Toiletries (Including Hand Soap)
Ship toiletries can be basic, often just a wall-mounted dispenser of generic shampoo and body wash. If you prefer a specific brand, have sensitive skin, or simply enjoy a touch of luxury, it’s well worth packing your favourites in travel sizes.
Don’t forget to bring hand soap too, as most cabins only provide a small bar of soap, which may feel quite harsh on the skin. Having your own toiletries will make your cruise feel much more comfortable and homely, and you’ll avoid the high prices and limited selection of toiletries in the ship’s onboard shops.
15. Bring a Trash Bag for Dirty Laundry
An easy DIY laundry hamper that doesn’t eat up valuable space. Pack a lightweight, foldable trash bag or even a reusable laundry bag to keep your dirty clothes separate from your clean ones. This simple trick keeps your cabin organised and prevents musty smells from spreading through your luggage.
You can hang the bag on a hook, tuck it into a corner, or even pop it inside a closet. When it’s time to pack for home, your laundry is already contained, making the process quicker and tidier. Plus, it saves you from using precious suitcase space for a bulky laundry hamper.
16. Pack Over-the-Counter Medicines
From seasickness tablets to painkillers — better safe than sorry (and much cheaper than onboard prices). Cruise ship shops typically have a limited selection of medications, and prices are often higher than at home. Plus, if you need something urgently, it might not be available onboard.
Pack a small kit with essentials like pain relief tablets, motion sickness medication, antihistamines, cold and flu remedies, diarrhoea treatments, rehydration sachets, and plasters. Having your own mini pharmacy will save you the stress of hunting for medicine when you’re not feeling your best, and help you get back to enjoying your holiday faster.
17. Use Silicone Travel Bottles
Fill with shampoo, conditioner, and other essentials — easier to pack and no full-size bottle drama. Silicone travel bottles are lightweight, flexible, and leak-proof, making them ideal for cruise travel where space is limited and spills need to be avoided. Their soft, squeezable design means you can easily get out every last drop without any waste.
Look for bottles with wide openings to make refilling them a breeze. You can use them not just for toiletries, but also for lotions, sunscreen, or even laundry detergent if you plan on doing a quick wash onboard. Having your favourite products in compact bottles will save space and make your cruise feel more like home.
18. Secure Important Items in the Safe
Keep your passport, cash, and cards safe and secure. Most cruise ship cabins are equipped with a small safe where you can store your valuables securely during your trip. As tempting as it might be to keep essentials like credit cards or passports in your bag for easy access, it’s much safer to lock them away when you’re not using them.
Only carry what you need around the ship — usually just your cruise card for purchases and identification. Using the cabin safe helps you avoid the stress of misplaced or stolen items, letting you relax and enjoy your holiday worry-free.
19. Order Morning Coffee to Your Room
Use room service to kickstart your day without rushing to the buffet. Most cruise lines offer a complimentary continental breakfast through room service during the early hours, including coffee, tea, pastries, and fruit. Simply hang the order card on your cabin door the night before, specifying the preferred delivery time.
Waking up to freshly brewed coffee delivered straight to your door is a relaxing and indulgent way to start the day, especially if you have a balcony to enjoy the morning sea views. It’s a small luxury that sets a positive tone for the whole day ahead.
20. Don’t Overpack
Be ruthless — rewear outfits and save yourself a cluttered room. Cruise cabins have minimal storage space, and overpacking can lead to clutter that quickly makes your cosy cabin feel chaotic. Plan your outfits carefully, choosing versatile pieces that you can mix and match. Don’t be afraid to repeat an outfit or two — no one is paying that much attention!
Stick to comfortable, wrinkle-resistant fabrics and pack layers instead of bulky items. A streamlined wardrobe makes unpacking quicker, keeps your space tidy, and saves room for any souvenirs you might pick up along the way.
21. Leave Bath Towels and Irons at Home
Towels are provided, and irons are not allowed — steam your clothes instead! Every cabin on a cruise ship is stocked with fresh bath towels, hand towels, and face cloths, with your room steward replacing them daily or as needed. There’s no need to waste precious suitcase space bringing your own.
As for irons, they are considered a fire hazard and are prohibited on board. To keep your clothes looking neat, simply hang them in the bathroom while taking a hot shower and let the steam naturally remove wrinkles. Alternatively, many ships offer a laundry service or self-service laundry rooms equipped with ironing boards if needed.
22. Self-Disembark If You Can
Carrying your own luggage off means you can leave the ship earlier. Most cruise lines offer a self-assist disembarkation option where you handle your own bags instead of leaving them outside your cabin the night before. This means you don’t have to wait for your luggage to be offloaded and called by zone the next morning.
You’ll usually be among the first groups allowed to leave the ship, which is perfect if you have an early flight or simply want to beat the crowds at customs. Just make sure you can comfortably manage your bags through the ship and terminal.
23. Avoid the Cheapest Guarantee Cabins
Saving $50 isn’t worth it if you end up above a nightclub. Guarantee cabins are allocated by the cruise line, meaning you have no control over your cabin’s exact location. While you might save a bit of money, you could end up in a less desirable spot — above noisy venues, below a busy pool deck, or right next to service areas.
Noise, vibrations, and heavy foot traffic can all impact your ability to relax and get a good night’s sleep. If a peaceful and convenient location is important to you, it’s well worth paying a little extra to select your own cabin.
24. Choose Midship Cabins for Smoother Sailing
Less motion = less seasickness. If you’re prone to feeling queasy at sea, choosing a cabin in the middle of the ship, both lengthwise and vertically, can make a huge difference. Midship cabins are more stable because they are closer to the ship’s centre of gravity, where there is less movement caused by waves.
This is particularly important during rough weather or when crossing open seas. Being midship also tends to place you closer to many of the ship’s main amenities, reducing the amount of walking needed to reach restaurants, pools, and theatres. It’s a win for both comfort and convenience!
25. Bring a Reusable Water Bottle
Easier (and greener) than buying bottled water. Bringing your own reusable water bottle is not only environmentally friendly but also incredibly convenient on a cruise. Most ships have water refill stations located around the pool deck, buffet area, and gyms, making it easy to stay hydrated throughout the day without having to buy expensive bottled water.
Choose an insulated bottle to keep your drinks cold for hours — a must when you’re sunbathing on deck or heading out on a hot shore excursion. Some cruisers even bring two: one for water and another for flavoured drinks or iced coffee!
26. Use the Mini Fridge for More Than Drinks
Chill your water bottles, medicine, or even snacks. The mini fridge in your cabin can be your secret weapon for keeping more than just drinks cold. Store small perishable items, such as cheese, yoghurt, fruit cups, or chocolate, to have handy for a late-night treat or an early morning snack.
It’s also ideal for keeping any necessary medications, like insulin or skincare products, at a stable temperature. If you’re travelling with children, having a cold juice box or a ready-to-go snack can make all the difference between a meltdown and a happy outing. Just remember that cruise fridges are more like coolers than deep freezers, so they’re perfect for keeping things chilled, not frozen.
27. Pack a Change of Clothes in Your Carry-On
In case your luggage is delayed, getting to your cabin. Sometimes it can take several hours for your checked bags to be delivered to your stateroom, especially on busy embarkation days. Having a change of clothes, swimwear, medications, and essential toiletries in your carry-on means you can relax and enjoy the ship’s facilities straight away without worrying about your bags arriving.
It’s also a good idea if you plan to hit the pool or attend the sailaway party soon after boarding. A little planning here can make your first day much smoother and stress-free.
30. Get to Know Your Cabin Steward
Your cabin steward is there to make your cruise experience as comfortable and enjoyable as possible. They’re the key to those extra touches that can make all the difference, like providing additional hangers, a mattress topper for better sleep, or extra pillows and towels when you need them.
Plus, they often have insider knowledge about the best times to visit busy areas like the buffet or quieter spots on the ship to relax. A little friendly interaction and appreciation for their service can go a long way.
Wrapping it Up
Your cruise cabin might be small, but with a few clever tricks up your sleeve, it can feel like a home away from home. Which of these hacks will you be trying on your next sailing? Or have you got a genius tip to add to the list? Let me know in the comments below!
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I'm Hannah and I've been cruising for as long as I can remember.
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