After trying different cruise hacks over the years, I wanted to put all the best tricks for an inside room to the ultimate test.

When I booked a last-minute cruise on Royal Caribbean's Radiance of the Seas in a tiny inside room, I thought this would be the perfect opportunity to gather every tip I've amassed into one stay.

I love discovering new ways to make a cruise better, especially unconventional ideas, and gadgets you can buy online. While not all of them work as well as someone claims, I've slowly amassed a list of tips and tricks that definitely do work.

Every little hack can make a big difference when you're in an inside room.  Space is so limited and not having any windows or access to the outside makes these rooms less than ideal.  That's all the more reason I wanted put it all to the test.

I've included affiliate links in this article, which means I make a small commission if you buy anything form these links. It doesn't cost you anything extra.

I came up with ten of the absolute best inside cruise ship cabin hacks that made my room better.

You don't know if it's morning in an inside room, so I brought a sunrise alarm clock

Besides the room being small, there's really no way to know if it's 3am or 3pm without a clock.

Relying on your phone means you have to open your eyes and then be temporarily blinded from the brightness of your phone as you check the time.  And then you have to hopefully be able to fall back asleep if it's not time to get up yet.

A sunrise alarm clock worked so much better than I ever expected because it allows you to wake up more like you would at home.  

You set the alarm time and then how much lead up you want for the light to start.  The idea is the clock slowly illuminates the room leading up to your alarm time.

Just like at home when the sun rises and your room starts to get brighter, so will your inside cabin.

The reason I really liked this clock is if I woke up before my alarm, I could tell if there was some light in the room with my eyes closed. That made it easier to fall back asleep without having to check the time.

Moreover, there are all sorts of melodies and sounds for the actual alarm. I picked birds chirping so I wouldn't get as jolted out of bed as I would with a regular alarm.

ecozy Sunrise Alarm Clock on Amazon

I brought heavy duty magnets to fix the worst thing about these cabins

When you sail on an older Royal Caribbean ship, you'll quickly discover the shower is different than on new ships.

Instead of a plastic or glass shower enclosure, Radiance class ships have a cloth curtain that tends to cling to you while in the shower.

Our readers recommended bringing magnets to keep the curtain away from me, because I could use the magnets to hold the curtain against the wall.  The walls in the bathroom and cabin are made from metal, so you can use magnets nearly anywhere.

This strategy definitely worked well, and I enjoyed the shower more as a result.

Plus, heavy duty magnets can be used in the room to hold up clothes and other items. That keeps the room tidier and reduces the amount of things that would otherwise be strewn about.

8 Pack Magnetic Hooks on Amazon

Bringing a battery operated fan was like having a ceiling fan and helped cool me down

My new favorite cabin hack is to bring a USB chargeable fan because it has a magnet at the base and be attached just about anywhere.

Even though this cruise was in early May and not quite summer, it was very hot and humid while our ship sailed to Cozumel, Mexico. 

I placed the fan near the air conditioning vent on the ceiling, which blew cold air right on me while I lay in bed. It was perfect for sleeping.

When I returned to my room after a hot and sweaty day in Cozumel, I moved the fan and placed it on the wall to help cool me down faster.

I was impressed by how well bringing a fan worked and what a difference it made in my overall comfort.

Magnetic cruise ship fan on Amazon

I put a digital thermometer so I knew exactly what temperature to set

This one probably sounds weird, but I swear bringing a thermometer makes a difference in keeping the room at the temperature you want.

If you're like me, you're used to having your house set to certain temperature because you have a smart thermostat that you can set precisely.  But on most cruise ships, there's just a dial with "hot" and "cold".

While you can play the game of "how cold is too cold", I placed the magnetic thermometer above the thermostat dial.  Then, I could adjust the room's thermostat and be able to better track if it was indeed the right temperature I prefer.

Is it critical or totally necessary? No, but it made my stay better because I knew exactly what temperature the room was at any time.

Mini Indoor Thermometer on Amazon

A magnetic toothbrush holder made my tiny bathroom counter less cluttered

No matter if you're in an inside room or a balcony, cruise ship bathrooms are really small, especially the counter tops.

Buying a magnetic toothbrush holder freed up my razor, toothbrush, and toothpaste from taking up space on the counter or in the glasses that are usually provided.

Every inch of counter space I didn't need was welcome, and I think this would be especially important if you're sharing the room with someone else. If you're cruising with kids, I'd buy one for each one and that will make a world of difference.

Magnetic Toothbrush Holder on Amazon

Storing my luggage under the bed frees up closet space

I think one of the first cruise ship cabin hacks I ever learned was you could shove your suitcases under your bed instead of putting them in the closet.

When you're staying in a small stateroom, you'll want to take advantage of every inch of space you have.  Underneath your bed is a vastly underutilized area.

You can nest the luggage inside each piece, and then slide it under the bed until you need it at the of the sailing.

Not only is out of sight, but it means your closet can be fully leveraged.

I was skeptical splitting the beds would make the room feel roomier, but it works

The first time I heard I should split my bed instead of keeping them together, I thought this was crazy. But it really does work.

When you have the beds together in an inside room, the bed is in the middle of the room and the only way around it is off to the side.

But splitting the beds apart and pushing them against the wall opens up a walkway in the middle of the room, and it's undeniably easier to get around.

I tried with the beds together and apart while on this cruise, and it certainly made a difference having the beds split.

Bringing a travel spray for the bathroom ensured odors never become problematic

Real talk: there are no fans in the bathroom of a cruise ship stateroom, so odors don't have anywhere to go.

Packing a travel sized Poo Pouri spray should be standard issue for everyone in their cruise packing list for your sake and everyone in your cabin.

Yes, it works, and yes you'll be happier to avoid situations where everyone has to avoid the bathroom for 25-35 minutes. If you know, you know.

Poo-Pourri Pocket Toilet Spray on Amazon

Packing a power outlet extender is a must-have when sailing on an older ship

Cruise ships have very few power outlets in their cabins, and that can create a problem with who can charge their device first.

My room had just two American power outlets, so I was glad to bring a power outlet extender with me.

It's important to note Royal Caribbean has banned power strips and multi-plug extenders, so you need to have the right one that won't get confiscated.

The rule to follow is the device can only have one AC outlet, but unlimited USB outlets.

EPICKA Universal Travel Adapter on Amazon

Bringing a nightlight so I didn't walk into a wall

The only time your room is going to be completely dark is at night, and if you have to get up in the middle of the night, it can be difficult to get around.

I brought a motion activated nightlight to place near the bathroom. I didn't want it activating when I moved around in bed, but I would want it to work if I got up and made my way to the entry way.

Radiance of the Seas actually has built-in motion-activated nightlights, but you never know if your room will actually have one. Nonetheless, it's great having a way to have a little bit of light without blinding you by turning on the cabin lights.

Motion-Activated Battery LED Light on Amazon

Carry-on bags are great for short vacations, but I'm not opposed to forgoing my bulky suitcase on longer cruises in favor of a smaller one. 

Not only are checked baggage fees at their all-time high, with airlines like United and JetBlue charging $45 per bag each way, but the hassle of waiting at baggage claim and the possibility of lost luggage make traveling lighter more appealing than ever.

During a seven-night Eastern Caribbean cruise, I challenged myself to pack only using a carry-on suitcase (my trusted Tumi Tegra-Lite® Expandable International bag, if you're wondering) and a personal item. I knew this wasn't an impossible feat, as I had a friend who traveled on an eight-night cruise in just a budget-airline-approved personal item, not even a true carry-on-sized bag!

Since I was sailing to the warm Caribbean, I was less worried about running out of space since I didn't need to pack bulky clothing or prepare for versatile weather like during a cruise to Alaska or Norway. 

I tried to pack strategically, thinking about the plans I had for the sailing aboard Symphony of the Seas. In the end, though, there are a few things that I'd do differently if I were to pack that light again.

In this article, I'll share my cruise carry-on packing list, along with what worked and what didn't, so you don't make the same mistakes I did. 

How to pack for a 7 day cruise in a carry-on

I started by thinking about my toiletries, since I needed to ensure that everything — from my face wash to shampoo and conditioner — was in TSA-compliant bottles. 

Before this specific trip, I actually didn't have any carry-on toiletry bottles, so I purchased three from my local Target for my hair products. 

I also went ahead and bought travel-sized bottles of face wash and contact lens solution, along with toothpaste, makeup remover wipes, and mouthwash.

When it came to packing my clothes, I planned on making myself comfortable in the adult-only Solarium most days, so I wanted to keep it simple with a few swimsuits, a cover-up, t-shirts, and athletic shorts.

I also planned on rotating between a few dresses for dinner each night, rather than packing seven different outfits for dinner — seven dresses, even when rolled tightly, can take up a lot of room!

Here's my 7 day Caribbean cruise packing list using just a small carry-on and personal item:

• Three t-shirts
• Two pairs of athletic shorts
• Two pairs of jeans
• Four evening shirts
• Four dresses
• One pair of pajamas
• One sweatshirt
• Six pairs of shoes
• A small purse
• Hair straightener and microfiber hair towel
• Three swimsuits
• One swim cover-up
• Toiletries (shampoo, conditioner, face wash, deodorant, contact lens solution, hair products, etc.)
• Undergarments (underwear, socks, bras, etc.)
• Laptop
• Electronic chargers
• Medication
• Camera
• Passport and credit cards
• Sunglasses

How to pack for a cruise

Since I didn’t have much space, I tightly rolled all my clothing. Then, I placed my bulkiest pieces, like my jeans and maxi dress, in the corners of the bag. My smaller items easily filled the gaps and layered on top.

The trickiest part was fitting all my toiletries and cosmetics, and I had to play a little Tetris to fully maximize my available space.

To bring even more clothing, I wore my bulky sweatshirt, one pair of jeans, and sneakers to the airport. Initially, I wasn't going to bring the sweatshirt, but this cozy article of clothing was a lifesaver on debarkation morning, which was a chillier-than-usual Florida day. 

Moreover, I needed sunscreen for my tropical getaway. However, since I was cramming everything into a small bag and needed TSA-compliant liquids, I decided to run into a store en route to the cruise terminal and grab a bottle. 

This was a more cost-effective option than checking a bag just to bring sunscreen or buying it on the ship, since Royal Caribbean charges upwards of $30 for a single bottle of spray sunscreen. 

My cruise ship packing mistakes

In the end, I regretted packing as much as I did. For example, I repeated outfits a lot, wearing the same dress for both formal night and dress your best night, even though I intended to wear different outfits. 

I also could have gotten away with two dresses and two evening shirts instead of four each. Plus, there was one pair of sandals that I only wore once. Although I appreciated having the option to choose between pairs of shoes, I really only needed one nicer pair of sandals for the seven-day cruise. 

In addition to packing too many sandals, I did not need more than one pair of sneakers. One athletic pair would have been sufficient, as I only wore my Golden Goose once. Sandals were better footwear for evenings aboard the ship. 

On the flip side, there were quite a few items I found myself wishing that I had brought. For starters, I definitely did not pack enough loungewear, and it would have been nice to have more t-shirts and athletic shorts. 

Another item I wish I had brought was a portable charger. Foolishly, I assumed it would be easy to charge my phone in my cabin during downtime. However, I failed to think about what might happen if my phone battery started to decline ashore.

For example, when I decided to explore Water Island near St. Thomas, my phone barely survived the six hours I was off the ship. This was even more worrisome since I was traveling by myself. 

How to minimize packing for a cruise

Packing for a seven-day cruise with only a single carry-on and personal item was not as tough as I had made it out to be. That said, there are some ways I'd change how I minimize my packing list for a cruise, like focusing more on comfortable clothing rather than a diverse wardrobe of evening wear.

You definitely do not need as many clothes as you think. Instead, the key is choosing versatile pieces that can be mixed, matched, and re-worn. Some things might be nice to have, but if you can live without them, they probably do not need to make the trip.

It's also smart to avoid overpacking for every possible scenario. While it is smart to be prepared, packing for hypotheticals you are unlikely to encounter will only take up valuable space in your suitcase. For example, I did not need to pack an extra pair of athletic shoes "just in case" my other sneakers got wet. 

All that said, the best part of packing for a cruise in a carry-on-sized bag is how easy disembarkation is. Rather than placing your bag outside your stateroom the night before, you can keep your stuff with you and roll your luggage off during the self-assist disembarkation process. 

After cruising all over the world, my packing strategy is set in stone.

With some trial and error, I’ve learned that there are some items I’ll always pack for a cruise, but there are also some things that you’ll never see me put in my suitcase.

Regardless of my cruise itinerary, items like Teva sandals and USB hubs are must-packs. Other items, though, such as outfits for theme nights, are better left at home.

If you choose to purchase from the affiliate links below, we will receive a small commission from your purchase - at no extra expense to you!

These are the 9 things I always pack for a cruise and the 3 things I never bring onboard.

Blister Band-Aids

Several years ago I made the mistake of wearing brand new sneakers on a cruise. My ankles were almost immediately covered in painful blisters.

Fortunately, my cabinmate saved the day with the blister-healing Band-Aids she packed in her bag. These provided cushioning between my shoes and my blisters, allowing me to explore the ship and our ports of call without pain.

After that experience, I always put a few sizes of blister Band-Aids in my toiletry bag. I try not to wear new shoes on cruises anymore, but you never know when a pesky blister might pop up.

Buy it here: Blister Healing Band-Aids

Anti-Theft Backpack

My go-to day bag for port days is an anti-theft backpack which is not only stylish, but very functional. The bag opens via a zipper against your back, so it feels secure in busy areas where pickpockets might be present.

I like the water-resistant material of the backpack, as I can bring it to the beach or to rainy climates without worrying about damaging the items inside. The stylish design doesn't scream 'tourist' either, which is helpful when traveling to ports in big cities in Europe.

My anti-theft backpack is definitely one of the most useful cruise purchases I’ve ever made.

Buy it here: Anti-theft Casual Shoulder Bag

USB Hub/Power Adapter

Charging electronic devices on cruises can be a hassle. Last year, for example, I shared a cabin with my parents on a cruise to Greece, and there were limited outlets for the three of us in our 25-year-old cruise cabin.

I was glad I packed my USB hub. This allowed me to turn one power outlet into four charging ports, maximizing charging capacity for all of us in the room.

A USB hub takes up little room in your suitcase, but it makes your cabin function much better.

Buy it here: Royal Caribbean-approved Power Adapter

Premium Travel Credit Card

I don’t live within driving distance of a cruise port, which means I’m always flying to my embarkation city. Long travel days can be exhausting, so one thing I always pack when flying to a cruise is a premium travel credit card.

These cards come with annual fees, but include great perks like lounge access, TSA PreCheck credits, and high mileage earning potential on purchases.

My favorite card at the moment is the Capital One Venture X. I find that the card’s benefits far outweigh the $395 annual fee.

For starters, I can use the card’s $300 travel credit on flights to my cruises or on pre-cruise hotel stays. The travel portal also lets me book flights and hotels with miles, and the lounge access is a lifesaver when traveling through busy airports en route to my cruise.

The card doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees either, which is convenient when making purchases in port.

Thule Packing Cubes

Speaking of flying, I hate paying for checked bag fees. More often than not, I cruise with just a carry-on suitcase and a small backpack.

You might think this means I pack light, but the truth is that my bags are filled to the brim with compressed packing cubes. All I can say is it’s a good thing the airlines don’t weigh carry-on bags!

I never cruise without my two sets of Thule compression packing cubes. These packing cubes are pricier than other brands, but they are extremely durable and the compression feature works extremely well.

Buy it here: Thule Compression Packing Cubes

My Own Toiletries

When I took my first Royal Caribbean cruise back in 2021, I neglected to pack my own toiletries like shampoo and conditioner. I had never been on a cruise before, and I thought cruise ships would provide mid-range hair products similar to hotels on land.

Once I got onboard, I quickly regretted my decision not to pack my own toiletries. The all-in-one shampoo and body wash provided in the shower was lackluster for my curly, frizzy hair. By the end of the cruise, I was dreaming of my conditioner from home.

Now I never forget to pack my preferred products in a set of refillable travel-sized containers.

Passport inside a protective case

If there’s one thing you absolutely need to remember for your cruise, it’s your passport or other form of acceptable identification.

I’m always paranoid that my passport is going to get damaged while traveling, so I protect it inside a passport case. This way my passport has extra protection in my backpack when I’m traveling from place to place.

Most cases are also somewhat water-resistant, although I sometimes place the passport itself in a Ziploc bag for added protection.

Buy it here: Passport Holder Case

Teva Sandals

I purchased a pair of Teva Universal Slim sandals before a trip to Asia last year, and they’ve been my go-to shoes ever since.

Tevas are considered sport sandals, as they have a strapping system to wrap around your foot for secure wear. They’re also waterproof and lightweight, making them perfect travel shoes.

I used to pack flip-flops for my cruises, but I’ve since transitioned to bringing sandals with better support. I find my Tevas to be ideal for exploring all types of ports, whether I’m enjoying a beach day in the Caribbean or exploring a city in Europe.

Buy it here: Teva Women's Universal Slim Sandals

Cheap sunglasses

Sunglasses are an obvious must-pack for a cruise, but I never bring an expensive pair.

Simply put, I don’t trust myself enough to bring (or even buy) a premium pair of sunglasses. More than likely, they’ll get scratched, damaged, or even lost on my trip.

Because of this, I always pack a cheap (under $30) pair of sunglasses for my cruises. Many budget-friendly sunglasses still provide UV protection, and I don’t have to worry about keeping a $300 pair of sunglasses safe during the cruise.

One thing I never bring is a cruise lanyard

Cruise lanyards are an easy way to store your SeaPass card around your neck during a cruise, but I personally never pack them.

While I’ll admit they’re useful, a cruise lanyard is just not my favorite outfit accessory. I prefer Royal Caribbean's WOW Bands, but in general, I just keep my SeaPass card in a small purse or handbag as I go about the ship.

I should note, however, that I’ve been known to lose my SeaPass card several times on every cruise, so perhaps a lanyard is an item I should consider packing for my next trip.

I rarely pack short dresses

On my first few cruises, I was excited to wear cute sundresses around the ship. I packed all of my favorites, but soon realized that the wind was a problem.

It can be surprisingly windy on a cruise. If your dress is even a little bit flowy, you'll risk flashing your fellow passengers if you happen to step outside.

After a few close encounters, I’ve all but stopped packing short dresses for my cruises. Instead, I prefer rompers or longer dresses that are less likely to blow around in the wind.

Finally, I don’t pack outfits for theme nights, either

Call me lame, but you won’t catch me packing for theme nights onboard. Whether it’s White Night or 70s Night, I’ll be watching the party from the sidelines.

Part of the reason I don’t pack for these nights is because I simply can’t fit a 70s afro wig and disco bodysuit into my bag. Aside from that, though, I don’t get much value from dressing up for these events that happen on nearly every cruise.

Read more: What to expect with Royal Caribbean's Theme Nights

I’ll participate in Caribbean Night if I happen to pack an outfit with a tropical pattern, but these theme nights are not events I actively plan for.

Cruising is a great excuse to buy new travel essentials, and I recently shopped at Target to check out the store’s top cruise items.

I often visit Target to stock up on toiletries before my cruises, and I wanted to see what other items the store offered at a budget-friendly price. Packing for a cruise means bringing essentials like a swimsuit, sunscreen, and your passport, but there are some lesser-known items that can make a huge difference.

Although the Royal Caribbean Blog team has covered pre-cruise shopping trips at Dollar Tree, Five Below, and Amazon, this is our first dedicated shopping trip to Target.

I set a budget of $20 per item to see what products are available that won’t break the bank before your next cruise.

After browsing nearly every aisle, these are the 11 cruise essentials you’ll want to buy on your next trip to Target.

8-Piece Travel Toiletry Set: $14

One essential I always bring on a cruise is a set of reusable toiletry bottles, and I love this $14 silicone set from Target. Travel-sized toiletries like shampoo and conditioner can be expensive, so a set of reusable bottles will save you money in the long run.

Plus, having your own reusable bottles lets you put your preferred products into the containers. Not all toiletries come in travel-sized bottles, so this gives you more freedom over which products you can pack.

In my experience, the silicone material is also less likely to break compared to conventional plastic bottles.

Buy it here: 8-Piece Travel Toiletry Set

10-Foot Charging Cable: $16

In some cruise cabins, power outlets can be hard to come by. If you’re sailing on a ship built before 2014, you might be surprised by how few outlets there are in your stateroom.

Even if you are on a newer ship, the availability of USB outlets can vary greatly. When I sailed on Royal Caribbean’s newest ship, Star of the Seas, I was surprised to find a charging outlet on just one side of the bed.

Read more: What an inside cabin looks like on Star of the Seas

Because of this, I always travel with a long USB cable so that I can make the most of the available charging ports. This 10-foot cable from Target costs just $16, but greatly improves the charging capability of your cabin.

You can plug the cable into a USB port near the desk and it will reach your nightstand!

I recommend the USB-A to USB-C cable option, as most Royal Caribbean cabins do not feature USB-C outlets. As noted, outlets can vary greatly by ship, so it’s a good idea to pack a USB hub as well just in case your cabin has only standard plugs.

Buy it here: 10-foot USB-A to USB-C Charging Cable

Dual Port Wall Charger: $10

Speaking of outlets, I recommend packing a USB hub or dual-port charger, too.

Maximizing outlets is important, and this $10 charging hub from Target allows you to plug in two USB cables at once. There's one USB-A port and one USB-C port.

Royal Caribbean recently tightened its policies on outlet adapters. If your adapter is a multi-plug outlet, you cannot bring it onboard. USB adapters like this one are allowed.

Buy it here: Dual Port Wall Charger

Neida EVA Two-Band Sandals: $10

I always make sure I pack proper footwear on a cruise, and these $10 sandals from Target are my go-to sandals to wear onboard.

Whenever I cruise, I pack a wide range of footwear. At a minimum, I bring sneakers for travel days, dress shoes for formal night, and a pair of sandals or flip flops to wear onboard and in port.

My favorite sandals to pack for a warm-weather cruise are the Neida EVA Two-Band Sandals from Target. I purchased a pair of these sandals nearly five years ago, and they’re holding up extremely well even with frequent use.

These sandals have a Birkenstock-style design, and they’re made with a durable foam material, making them comfortable and waterproof.

I love wearing these on beach days or for walking around the ship during the day. They feel much more sturdy than flip flops.

Buy it here: Neida EVA Two-Band Sandals

Plug-In LED Nightlight: $7

If you’re cruising in an interior cabin, your room will be pitch black at night and whenever the lights are turned off during the day. Even if you’re cruising in a balcony room, your room will still be extremely dark at night, especially if the blackout curtains are drawn.

If I wake up in the middle of the night on a cruise, I often use my phone’s flashlight to make my way around the cabin. I don’t want to wake up my cabinmate by turning on the main light just to walk to the bathroom.

A better option, though, is to plug an LED nightlight into one of the cabin’s outlets. This 2-pack set of LED nightlights costs just $7 at Target, and it’s an easy way to add just a little bit of light to your room.

Buy it here: Globe 2 pack LED Auto On/Off Nightlights

Premium Belt Bag: $20

Belt bags are popular hands-free handbags that are not only functional, but also fashionable. Essentially, belt bags are like fanny packs, but with a more polished style.

Belt bags are often associated with Lululemon’s popular Everywhere Belt Bag, but Target offers their own version as well. For $20, you can buy Target’s Premium Belt Bag, which is designed for traveling and outdoor activities.

I like wearing belt bags on a cruise, as it allows me to be hands-free when exploring. I don’t have to worry about wearing a bulky backpack or bringing a bigger purse around the ship. My belt bag fits my SeaPass card, phone, and any other small essentials I need throughout the day, such as a travel-sized tube of sunscreen or my sunglasses.

Buy it here: Premium Belt Bag - All In Motion™

4-Piece Packing Cube Set: $10

I don’t know how I ever traveled without packing cubes. They make packing for a cruise so much easier. I can keep all my belongings organized in my suitcase and easily unpack once I get to my cabin.

Packing cubes come in a huge variety of sizes and price points, but this $10 set from Target is a nice option. It includes three packing cubes and a shoe bag, and it's available in three different colors.

Personally, I recommend spending a little more for a sturdier set of packing cubes. I prefer packing cubes with a second zipper to compress the cubes. Compression features are only available with more expensive sets, such as this $35 set from Target.

If you just want a cheap, budget-friendly set, though, this $10 one will get the job done.

Buy it here: 4-Piece Packing Cube Set

8-Pack Reusable Snack Bags: $9.39

Some of the most useful items to pack for a cruise that take up little to no room in your suitcase are resealable snack bags. Many parents like bringing these bags to pack snacks for shore excursions, and I personally find them helpful as a water-resistant way to protect my passport in its case.

If you’re looking for a more eco-friendly option, consider Target’s 8-pack set of reusable snack bags. You can quickly wash the bags in your cabin’s sink (or in your dishwasher when you get home), and you won’t run through so much single-use plastic in the process.

Buy it here: Reusable Sandwich Bags

Pop-Up Mesh Hamper: $5

Another useful item that takes up little space in your suitcase is a pop-up laundry hamper. It might seem like a silly item to pack for a cruise, but it’s a foolproof way to keep your cabin just a little bit more organized.

I once shared a cabin with my brother and our stateroom’s closet quickly became filled with piles of dirty laundry. We didn’t know where to place our dirty clothes, so we just threw them onto the floor without a second thought.

From that point forward, I try to keep my dirty clothes more organized in my cabin. A pop-up laundry hamper, like this $5 option from Target, is an easy and cheap way to do that.

Buy it here: Pop-Up Mesh Hamper

Door and Room Decorations: $6

Many passengers enjoy decorating their cabin during a cruise, whether that means decorating the door, the inside of the room, or both! If you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to join the fun, you can find plenty of decorations at Target.

Lining Target’s party aisle are dozens of decorations to buy, including Happy Birthday banners, sparkly backdrops, and colorful garlands.

Most items cost around $6, making decorations a low-cost purchase that will make your cabin a lot more colorful.

Buy decorations here.

Toiletries: Under $10

Target’s toiletry aisles are perfect for stocking up on essentials like sunscreen, over-the-counter medication, hand sanitizer, and also helpful items like stain remover pens.

I often head to Target to purchase last-minute toiletries for my cruises. They have a huge variety of products and the shelves are always well-stocked. If you’re traveling with just a carry-on, the travel-sized products are a lifesaver.

While you’re stocking up on toiletries, I also recommend purchasing items like Band-Aids in this section of the store. I never cruise without a box of blister-healing Band-Aids, but regular bandages are useful to have on hand.

Finally, grab a few boxes of over-the-counter medications like Ibuprofen and Benadryl. You never know when you might need them, and they're a lot cheaper to buy at Target than onboard the ship.

I love finding new things I can bring on my cruise to make it better, and I think I found a few on Amazon that are now permanently on my packing list.

Before I took my latest cruise on Utopia of the Seas, I went to buy a float to bring to the beach that I had meant to purchase for a long time.  I noticed in the title, it specifically mentioned being useful on a Royal Caribbean cruise and that got me thinking what other items are marketed specifically towards cruisers.

After a bit of searching, I came across 10 items I could buy and test out. 

I guessed a few of them would almost certainly not be that useful, but I didn't want my own preconceived notions to prevent me from trying something potentially useful out.

I added them all to my cart, hit checkout, and $170.09 later, I had them all on their way to my house.

After trying them out on a 3-night Bahamas cruise, I was pleasantly surprised when three of them instantly became favorites.

This float is a gamechanger for the beach

I had seen another passenger use a 4-in-1 pool hammock float a few years ago, and it's been living in my head rent-free ever since. 

Royal Caribbean doesn't allow you to use floats in their ship pools, but the rules are looser on land.

Unlike a regular float, this can be modified to use in multiple ways without being bulky or require a pump. It's essentially two small inflatables attached to a mesh liner.

The genius is you can sit on it like a chair, rest your arms on it like a ledge, lay on it, or theoretically use it for exercise.  The last one is admittedly ridiculous, but I can attest to the other three forms.

This float solves the situation where you're socializing in the ocean or pool in a height that's too shallow to stand up, so you end up either kneeling or doing a half-squat. 

Instead, you sit down in this float and you're so much more comfortable hanging out.

I was surprised how enjoyable this was, and because it all folds down quite small once uninflated, I would definitely bring them on future cruises.

• Waterlife 4-in-1 Pool Hammock for $17.78 on Amazon

Possibly the most useful item solves the small cruise ship bathroom problem

I was genuinely surprised just how useful a magnetic toothbrush holder could be, but it's a must-have for me now.

No matter what room you book, the counter space in a cruise ship bathroom is always limited. There doesn't seem to be a fair way to share the space, so we end up living out of our toiletry bags for the most part.  Best case scenario, the older ships have plastic cups that we use to store some things.

Instead, this wall-mounted magnetized toothbrush holder can be attached almost anywhere in the bathroom and it's perfect for toothbrushes, razors, toothpaste, and other travel-sized toiletries.

It was so nice freeing up the counter so we weren't inadvertently knocking things over or having to jockey for position. To say it felt liberating might be too strong of a description, but it really felt that way.

• Magnetic Toothbrush Holder for $7.99 on Amazon

Putting a fan on the ceiling is great for sleeping

Bringing a rechargeable fan on a cruise isn't a new idea, but one that goes on the ceiling is so smart.

I'm used to sleeping with a ceiling fan at home, and you'll never find one on a cruise ship.  Heck, they're rare in hotels too.

This particular fan is battery powered (rechargeable via USB) and has a strong magnet on the bottom, so you can stick it on the ceiling.

I put mine right on the air conditioning vent, which pushed the air coming out directly towards me.  It felt so good having directional cool air.

Plus, it has four speeds. This not only allows for the right amount of air flow, but also creates white noise on its higher speeds.

Anyone used to sleeping with a fan on at home will find this as an added bonus.

• Magnetic cruise approved fan for $24.99 on Amazon

I tried two soda cup holders, but I felt too weird wearing them around the ship

I've never been a fan of carrying a soda cup around the ship, so a drink cup sling sounded like a good idea.

I found two of them, but they both suffered from the same problem.

Both slings worked as advertised. Put your Royal Caribbean soda cup in them, and now you have a hands-free way to carry the cup around the ship.

First, it felt like the soda cups were too top heavy for the slings, so the cup was always tipping over when being carried.

Second, I really thought I looked especially dorky wearing it.  I don't generally care what other people think of what I wear, but I have some standards in attempting to look presentable.

Some viewers on YouTube suggested I should have worn it as a cross-body sling, instead of as a BabyBjörn carrier.  

If I had to pick one, I think the full cup sling was better because it had an extra pocket to put a SeaPass card or cash inside.

• Cruise Ship Essentials Cup Sling (2-pack) for $14.99 on Amazon
• Adjustable Drink Cup Sling (2-pack) for $15.99 on Amazon

I tried bringing a thermometer, but it might have been useful on an older ship

I recall reading some people bring a battery-operated thermometer for their cabin and thinking, "why?" but then realizing it might actually be useful.

The idea is on cruise ships that still have a dial for adjusting the air conditioning or heat, it's a bit of a game to find the right temperature.  

If you're like me, you're used to customizing the temperature at home precisely.  On older ships, it's just a game of "more" or "less" cold.

The idea is put a digital thermometer above the controls and you can more easily pinpoint the perfect setting that you're used to at home.

This wasn't necessary on Utopia, because new Royal Caribbean ships have digital thermostats. But when I go on my Alaska cruise next month, this might be worth bringing along.

• Indoor thermometer (2-pack) for $6.99 on Amazon

I tried using towel bands on chairs, but they seemed useless

I've never thought towel bands or towel clips were that useful an idea, but I was willing to give it a try.

I brought a 6-pack of them to the Royal Beach Club Paradise Island because this new private destination is set up on a barrier island, which means it gets a lot of wind.

Sure, it kept my towel in place. But I don't think it improved my experience at all. Perhaps if it had been extremely windy, sure.  But then I thought I would have put almost any other belonging I had with me to keep the towels from flying away.

Honestly, I associate towel bands with chair hogs more than a truly useful item.

• 6 Pack Towel Band for $8.49 on Amazon

A drink caddy is a smart idea — if you're going to volunteer to get everyone drinks often

I was skeptical, but willing to try bringing a drink caddy so I could make a Starbucks run and be the family hero.

Since we were staying in a Star Class suite, Starbucks beverages are included with our fare and I knew we'd be ordering plenty of lattes and Frappuccino's during our trip.

The drink caddy is perfectly proportioned to carry up to 4 beverages, and it's clearly designed for coffees.

Not only is it difficult to carry more than two coffees at once, but I don't want to risk spilling it on me or anywhere else.

While the drink caddy works exactly as advertised, I still question how useful it really is because even with complimentary Starbucks, we never made that many runs that it was necessary.

 I suppose if someone in your family is willing to be a trooper and make coffee runs, this would be very helpful. Better yet, buy it because you can use it at home and then bring it on your cruise too.

• 4 Cup Drink Carrier with Handle for $14.99 on Amazon

I never got to use two of the things I bought for my cruise

I failed with two of the things I bought for different reasons.

I bought drink cup holder clips because I thought they would work really well with pool loungers.  

But when I got to the Royal Beach Club, the loungers didn't have any piece that was thin enough to latch them onto because the clip wouldn't expand enough.

I also purchased a snack box so that I could bring it to the Windjammer and then bring back snacks to enjoy the room later.  I always lament that the Windjammer closes by 9pm and then I want a snack later that evening. When my kids were younger, having snacks in the room was always a struggle.

Unfortunately, I never found time to try this idea out. I think it absolutely could work, although my wife forbade me from putting Indian curry in it to enjoy later because it would have been a nightmare to clean.

• Drinking Cup Holder Clip (2-pack) for $15.99 on Amazon
• Snackle Box Container for $12.99 on Amazon

Royal Caribbean is known for its wild and fun theme nights, and cruisers certainly dress the part. 

From White Night to Formal Night, Tropical Night, 70s Night, and more, you will want to pack accordingly to fit in with the masses.  

Some guests love to go all out with costumes and coordinated outfits among party members, while others prefer to keep it simple. 

Royal Caribbean's Crown & Anchor Society social media team recently took to its Facebook page to ask cruisers about their theme night packing lists. 

"Calling all theme night lovers! What’s the funniest thing you’ve ever packed for a theme night on board? 👀 Tell us in the comments!" the post reads. 

Within one day, over a dozen Royal Caribbean cruisers shared their most over-the-top theme night outfits — and you can certainly tell these weren't last-minute packing decisions.  

Read more: There are theme nights on a Royal Caribbean cruise. Here's what to expect and how to plan for it

Dress Your Best Night

(Credit: ErikChristy Bray / Facebook)

Although many associate Dress Your Best Night on Royal Caribbean ships with elegant gowns, button-down shirts, and even tuxedos, ErikChristy Bray's travel party took a different approach. 

Bray attached a photo of ten cruisers dressed as Mrs. Helen Roper from "Three's Company." One passenger even held a framed photo of Roper's husband, Stanley, in the popular '70s sitcom. 

Disco Night

(Credit: Yvonne P. Dumont / Facebook)

Disco Night is all about sparkles, flashy accessories, and funky shoes. 

While Yvonne P. Dumont certainly brought the shimmery clothing, she also went one step further with colorful wigs.

White Night

(Credit: Tom Place / Facebook)

Normally, White Night is cause for concern since it often aligns with Italian Night in the Main Dining Room (white shirts + red pasta sauce = disaster). 

However, Tom Place found a creative way to dress the part while keeping their clothing safe by simply wearing Royal Caribbean-branded robes!

Halloween

(Credit: Walter Robin Terry / Facebook)

Royal Caribbean encourages guests to dress up for Halloween. Just because you're in the middle of the ocean doesn't mean you shouldn't be able to wear a fun costume!

Walter Terry's family went the extra mile, dressing up as Gru, Lucy Wilde, and Minions from the beloved "Despicable Me" franchise. 

'60s Night

(Credit: Nella Gambrell / Facebook)

The '60s were a period of high optimism, revolutionary fashion and music trends, and cultural change. The iconic hippie style is one of the most defining looks of the era. 

Nella Gambrell's entire travel party definitely showed up for '60s Night — think wigs, flower crowns, tie-dye shirts, fringe vests, and peace sign accessories.  

'70s Night

(Credit: Jennifer Bell / Facebook)

My mom grew up during the '70s and once told me that she remembered when she got her first pair of bell-bottom jeans. Flared denim, however, wasn't the only popular trend during the decade. 

Jennifer Bell and her husband embraced the playfulness of the era with wigs, a fun maxi dress, and wide-collar shirts with colorful patterns. 

'80s Night

(Credit: Kathleen Donnelly / Facebook)

'80s fashion was bright and bold, which is why it makes such a great cruise ship theme night. 

Kathleen Donnelly shared an image of her family's '80s night costumes, complete with neon green lace gloves, tutus, bright pink headbands, and geometric-patterned shirts. 

Every cruise, I watch passengers get stopped before boarding at security for items they had no idea were banned.

Most people make an honest mistake by bringing things that aren't allowed onboard because they're a fire or security hazard. Most of these confiscated items don't get them in trouble, but it does result in a frustrating start to their vacation and the loss of the item until they return.

I know when I pack something for a cruise, I'm counting on having that item.  So getting to taken away would put a dent in my plans.

While Royal Caribbean has a lengthy list of things you can't bring on a cruise, four are clearly the top items that seem to be accidentally brought onboard the most.

The most commonly confiscated item are irons and steamers

If you ever pass by the table of confiscated items to be picked up after a cruise is over, I can pretty much guarantee you'll see mostly clothing irons and steamers.

So many people mistakenly believe they can bring them on a cruise, but they'll be taken away as soon as they're spotted in your bags.

The reason why you can't bring clothing irons or steamers on a cruise is they are a fire hazard.  If left unattended, they could start a fire and that's a risk Royal Caribbean won't take.

Fire is the most dangerous scenario for a cruise ship, so the ship's crew are extra vigilant when it comes to preventing fires.

Since irons and steamers aren't allowed, you'll have to figure out an alternative to getting wrinkles and creases out of your clothes.

There are a few options people rely on as a backup:

• Sending clothes out to be pressed onboard (extra cost)
• Bringing wrinkle release spray
• Leaving clothes in the bathroom while the shower runs to absorb the steam
• Rolling clothes in their suitcase

Each idea has its pros and cons, so you'll need to find the one that works best for your needs.

Beer or liquor isn't allowed to be brought onboard

A few cruise lines allow you to bring beer on embarkation day, but not Royal Caribbean. You cannot bring beer or liquor on your cruise.

In fact, the cruise line has gotten more stringent with checking for these items because people try to sneak it onboard.

You are allowed to bring wine or non-alcoholic drinks on your cruise. However, they might still search your bag if they see something in the bag scan that even resembles booze.

This rule is also enforced when you come back on the ship in a port of call. Cruisers like to buy bottles of liquor to bring home, but it will be taken from you until the cruise is over.

Power strips and other unapproved power adaptors are commonly taken from people

If clothing irons are the most confiscated item, then power strips are probably number two on the list.

You cannot bring a power strip or surge protector on a cruise. That's been a rule for many years, and it's because it's also a fire hazard.

But Royal Caribbean also prohibits bringing multi-plug outlets, which is a more recent change in policy.

The simplest way to know if your power adaptor is allowed on a Royal Caribbean ship is to make sure it only has one A/C outlet. The amount of USB outlets is irrelevant.

I recommend this universal power adaptor that works well for cruise ships and will help you if you end up traveling elsewhere around the world (Link contains affiliate link, which costs you nothing extra to use).

Appliances

As a general rule, you can't bring kitchen appliances on your ship either.  

I've seen rice cookers, electric kettles, and coffee machines on the confiscated items table because people think they can save money and make certain foods in their cabin.

"Electrical items and electronic equipment not designed for personal grooming" aren't allowed.

If your ship sails from the UK, you can expect an electric tea kettle in your cabin. 

Otherwise, you'll need to book a suite in order to have a coffee machine or electric kettle ready to use in your cabin that has been provided by the cruise line.

Luggage tags are a small but essential part of Royal Caribbean’s embarkation process. If you’re looking for a way to keep your tags secure, protected, and easy to attach, luggage tag holders are a simple solution.

When you arrive for embarkation day, you will send off your checked bags with the cruise porters at the terminal. Every checked bag must be clearly tagged so it can be routed through the ship’s luggage system and delivered to the correct stateroom. After your luggage is whisked off by the porters, you won’t see it again until it’s delivered to your stateroom later that day.

In this way, your printed luggage tag is pretty crucial, as it's the only way the cruise line knows where to deliver luggage. Your luggage tag is essentially the only thing tying your suitcase to your stateroom. If it gets lost or damaged along the way, your bag can be delayed while crew members work to track it down. And you definitely don't want to add unnecessary stress to embarkation day by wondering where your suitcase ended up.

Even after years of cruising, I still find myself printing luggage tags at the last minute. This often involves a quick stop at the hotel concierge to print the tags and hunt down a stapler before heading to the cruise port. In fact, I’ve even arrived at the cruise terminal without printed luggage tags after completely forgetting them.

For many years, I never saw the value of luggage tags for a cruise. I would simply print my luggage tag and either tape or staple it to my suitcase. I never really thought twice about it, until one rainy embarkation changed my entire perspective.

While boarding our cruise in Sydney, Australia last fall, it was pouring rain all morning. Luckily, my dad had packed extra luggage tag holders that I borrowed before heading to the port. As we made our way through the terminal, I was relieved that my luggage tags were secure and protected from the rain. Other passengers had damaged luggage tags that weren’t legible because they were so soaked!

After this experience, I have continued to use luggage tag holders for my Royal Caribbean cruises. They provide me with peace of mind that my luggage tag will remain intact during embarkation. Also, they hardly take up any space for packing.

How Royal Caribbean’s luggage tags work

Royal Caribbean provides luggage tags in your pre-cruise electronic documents after your online check-in is complete. Luggage tags can be found in your eDocs, which are specific to your ship, sailing date, and stateroom. 

Guests are encouraged to print multiple copies of their luggage tags in case of damage or last-minute changes. You’ll fill in your name on each tag as well.

If a luggage tag is forgotten at home, porters at the terminal can still provide generic tags on embarkation day. However, Royal Caribbean recommends printing and securing your tags in advance to avoid delays. Generic tags also lack the color coding and location information crew members rely on, which can slow down how quickly your luggage makes its way to your stateroom.

Royal Caribbean’s luggage tags are printed on paper and designed to be attached to bags before boarding. This allows luggage handlers to sort thousands of bags efficiently and deliver them throughout the ship within hours of embarkation.

When a luggage tag is damaged, illegible, or torn off, this system can fail. Suitcases and bags without readable tags may be delayed, manually inspected, or temporarily set aside until crew members can identify the owner. While most bags eventually arrive, the process can take significantly longer, sometimes well into the evening on embarkation day.

Although Royal Caribbean doesn’t require any luggage tag holders, they are extremely useful. For this reason, you’re likely to see many other passengers at the cruise terminal utilizing them. And after years of cruising, I would consider them a cruise essential.

A protective luggage tag holder keeps the paper tag sealed and securely fastened to the bag handle. They also reduce the risk of tearing or loss from the baggage handlers. More importantly, it helps ensure your luggage moves smoothly through the system and arrives at your stateroom as quickly as possible.

If you’re looking to invest in luggage tags for your Royal Caribbean cruise, you’ve come to the right place! We’ve compiled our top choices for Royal Caribbean luggage tags and holders that you must have for your next cruise.

Note: Affiliate links are used throughout this article. If you purchase using the links provided in our article, we receive a small commission. This helps support our website and doesn’t cost you anything extra! You can also check out our Amazon Storefront for all of our cruise essentials and favorites.

1. Highwind 4-Pack Cruise Luggage Tag Holder

Link: Highwind 4 Pack Cruise Luggage Tag Holder for Suitcases - Compatible with Celebrity 2025 Royal Caribbean Luggage Tag Holders Travel Essentials Cruise Lanyard

Price: $6.99

This is one of the best-selling cruise essentials from our Amazon Storefront. Cruisers love how easy and convenient these are to use, and they have thousands of 5-star reviews!

Cruisers describe these luggage tag holders as well-constructed and secure, with strong cables that stay in place. Many people also mention their durability, ease of use, and snug fit for Royal Caribbean's printed luggage tags. This makes them a reliable option for embarkation day and luggage handling.

In addition, these tags can apparently be used for other cruise lines, including Carnival Cruise Line and Disney Cruise Line. If you’re wanting a versatile luggage tag holder, this is a great option to consider! Also, there are multiple options for purchasing, including 4-packs and 8-packs. Some options also include ID lanyards — another cruise staple for many!

Cruise On: 4-Pack Luggage Tag Holders

Link: Cruise On Royal Caribbean Cruise Luggage Tag Holder (4 Pack) – Fits All Royal Caribbean Ships, Durable Travel ID Holders for 2026-2027 Cruises, Clear Waterproof Cruise Essentials

Price: $12.99

Another great option is this 4-pack of luggage tag holders from Cruise On. Customers consistently describe these luggage tag holders as high quality and perfect for Royal Caribbean cruises. Reviews note the sturdy plastic construction and heavy-duty cables, which keep their Royal Caribbean luggage tags secure and protected throughout embarkation.

In addition, people also appreciate how easily Royal Caribbean's printed tags fit inside the holders and report that they hold up well over multiple cruises.

6-Pack Royal Caribbean Luggage Tag Holders

Link: Cruise Luggage Tag Holder for Royal Caribbean Ships & Celebrity, 6Pack Clear Tags Cruise Travel Essentials for 2025-2026

Price: $6.99

If you're wanting a pop of color on your luggage tag holders, look no further! Cruisers describe this 6-pack of Royal Caribbean luggage tag holders as durable and easy to use. Many also note that they hold up well over multiple cruises with little visible wear.

Reviews also highlight the luggage tag’s secure, well-fitting design for Royal Caribbean's printed luggage tags. Many reviewers mention how these tags are consistently useful and functional during embarkation. Moreover, most travelers consider them a worthwhile purchase and recommend them for cruisers. However, these tags will not work with other cruise lines, so you'll only want them for Royal Caribbean and Celebrity cruises.

Seavilla 8-Pack of Luggage Tags

Link: 8 Pack Luggage Tags Travel Essentials & Cruise Essentials for Royal Caribbean & Celebrity Cruise Ships by SEAVILIA

Price: $6.99

Those wanting a few additional luggage tag holders should consider this 8-pack from Seavilia. Cruisers frequently describe these luggage tags as well made, including the sturdy wire fasteners and durable plastic construction. Reviews also note that the tags stay securely attached throughout the cruise and hold up well during embarkation.

Many travelers appreciate how Royal Caribbean's luggage tags fit neatly inside. Also, several mention that they show little to no wear by the end of their cruise, even after multiple sailings. The brand also offers multi-pack options, with quantities ranging from 8 to 40 holders.

6-Pack Luggage Tag Holders + 3 Lanyards

Link: Royal Caribbean & Celebrity Luggage Tag Holders With Cruise Lanyards - Zip Seal Clear Holders and Badge Holders for Ship Cards (6 Tag Holders + 3 Lanyards)

Price: $8.99

This bundle includes two cruise essentials: Royal Caribbean luggage tag holders and three matching cruise lanyards. This makes it a convenient option for both embarkation day and onboard use!

The clear tag holders fit Royal Caribbean’s printable tags perfectly and attach securely with braided steel rings. In addition, the lightweight lanyards include detachable clips for easy access to your SeaPass card. Both pieces are water-resistant, helping protect printed luggage tags and cruise cards throughout your vacation.

Cruisers describe these luggage tag holders as both practical and reliable during their vacation. Many mention the durable vinyl sleeves, which help protect printed tags and keep them neatly in place. Reviewers also mention the ease of use and secure attachment, noting that the holders stay put while still being simple to remove when needed. Several reviewers also note that they feel the quality justifies the price, especially for frequent cruisers.

4-Pack Colored Luggage Tag Holders and Lanyards

Link: 4 Pack Clear Cruise Luggage Tag Holder for Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Ships, 2 Pack Cruise Lanyards and Waterproof ID Badge Holder Suitable for Cruise Card, Cruise Essential Travel Accessories

Price: $9.99

This is another bundled option if you're looking to invest in luggage tags and cruise lanyards for your vacation. These luggage tags are made from durable PVC that holds up well in the wet, unpredictable weather. The water-resistant material helps protect printed information from moisture during transit. These luggage tags are sized specifically for Royal Caribbean printable luggage tags, along with Celebrity Cruises’ luggage tags. Some reviewers also mentioned these tags worked for their Norwegian cruise.

Finally, the set also includes tropical-themed cruise lanyards with a waterproof ID holder. This will keep your SeaPass card dry and easily accessible throughout your entire vacation. 

6-Pack Luggage Tag Holders, Lanyards, and Magnetic Hooks

Link: Cruise Accessories Works with All Cruise Lines Cruise Travel Essentials Cruise Luggage Tags for Royal Caribbean Ships and Celebrity, Cruise Luggage Tags for Carnival Cruise Ship (12)

Price: $13.99

This is the ultimate cruise-essentials purchase with luggage tag holders, lanyards, and magnetic hooks! Most cruisers describe these cruise accessories as very useful for their vacation. To start, magnetic hooks can be used in your Royal Caribbean cabin, as the walls are usually magnetic. These hooks allow you to hang small items directly on your wall, which can save space and keep your cabin organized.

Similarly, these luggage tag holders are designed to fit luggage tags for Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruises. The zip-top seal helps keep paper tags from getting wet or tearing, and the thicker plastic feels sturdy enough for the way luggage is handled on embarkation day. 

Not to mention, many consider lanyards to be a must-have items for cruises to keep your card secure throughout the day. You'll be carrying your SeaPass everywhere you go, so it's important to have your card in a secure place.

14-Pack Colorful Luggage Tag Holders

Link: ME.FAN 14 Pack Cruise Luggage Tag Holder for Royal Caribbean & Celebrity, Clear Cruise Tags Holder - Waterproof, Reusable, Zip Seal, Cruise Essentials

Price: $9.99

If you’re looking for a larger set of luggage tags for your Royal Caribbean cruise, this is a great option. These are highly rated with reviewers stating these tags are well-made and reliable. Many note how they like the colorful design!

Reviews also highlight the overall build quality, including screw-on enclosures that keep tags securely in place. Many travelers note that their luggage tags remain protected and intact throughout embarkation. Royal Caribbean cruisers add that printed tags fit well inside the holders and appreciate how easy they are to attach, remove, and reuse on future trips.

The list of things you can't bring on a Royal Caribbean cruise has been revised with a new look to it and a focus on certain policies.

The policy governing what you cannot bring on a cruise has been a "living document" that has updated to reflect trends.  Some of the items have been prohibited for decades, while others are new.

This week, the prohibited item list got an overhaul and a new look.  Instead of it being a simple list, there's more context and even a few changes.

This is a good reminder to check up on what's been revised to prevent bringing the wrong things on vacation that could get you in trouble.

A new look

The first thing you'll notice about this list of items that are prohibited on a Royal Caribbean cruise is the format.

You can find the list on Royal Caribbean's website, and it's a page that gets regular updates. We monitor it closely to look for policy changes.

Compared to a copy of the webpage from January 31, 2026, the list has undergone an update to flesh out select areas and rearrange others.

Revised prohibited items list

Old list format

Certain prohibited items now have their own section with explanations, likely to further elaborate on what's not allowed.

In fact, Royal Caribbean even goes as far as to add what's included on your cruise to give reassurance that not being allowed to bring an item won't ruin your vacation. As an example, the list of which drinks you cannot bring now includes the free drinks that come with your cruise fare.

Ironically, the banned item list now includes many things you can bring.  

For example, the entire toiletries section talks about you're allowed to bring them, with no restrictions mentioned. The same is true for most of the baby things section.

This is likely to clear up any confusion if something not mentioned, but frequently asked about, is permissible to bring onboard.

The list also says there's a hair dryer included in every stateroom, even though hair curling irons, straighteners and hair dryers are permitted

At the bottom of the page is the traditional format of a list of banned items.

New banned items and policy adjustments

Snacks have been added to the prohibited item list, although there isn't an actual allotment defined.

"You can bring on a sensible amount of your favorite pre-packaged sealed snacks. Keep in mind there are lots of complimentary grab and go items and food all around the ship."

Previously, there was no mention of snacks on the banned item list.  Perhaps this change reflects a change in the amount of food guests are attempting to bring on a cruise.

Similarly, luggage is now included on the list with an explanation there is no limit, but their bags will be scanned.

Royal Caribbean also added a section that pets are not allowed on its cruise ships, with the exception of service animals.

This is an important step as our team has witnessed an increase in the amount of passengers who bring their pets onboard while trying to pass them off as service animals. Perhaps our anecdotal data is reflected in calling out the ban now on the full list.

Lastly, the recent addition of smart glasses has gotten an update. 

In February 2026, Royal Caribbean added smart glasses to its banned list, but restricted them from being worn in certain areas.

The verbiage is now more plain spoken and explains the restriction on where you can and cannot wear them.

"There are limits to where smart glasses can be worn onboard. Smart glasses cannot be worn in the casino, spa service areas, restrooms, locker rooms, medical facilities, security screening locations, youth facilities, during back-of-house tours, in crew areas, or anywhere there is a reasonable expectation of guest and crew privacy."

Guests violating the rule will have them taken away, "Smart glasses users who are seen violating this policy will have the glasses confiscated."

New ban on smoking in Mexico

Smokers should be aware that Royal Caribbean has updated its policy regarding smoking to match Mexico's new rules.

Mexico has a total ban on smoking in public places that has been in place since 2023.

This includes beaches, parks, hotels, restaurants, and workplaces. 

Nothing has changed with where and when you can smoke onboard, but there's a warning to passengers to be aware you could face jail time if you try to smoke while ashore.

"In Mexico, vapes and e-cigarettes of any kind are banned and cannot be brought ashore. Regular cigarettes cannot be smoked in public places including at beaches, hotels, restaurants and parks. Violators face fines or even jail time."

Weeks after Royal Caribbean quietly updated its prohibited items list to tighten onboard safety and cybersecurity, the cruise line clarified that certain smart glasses are now restricted in specific areas of its ships.

Like other cruise lines, Royal Caribbean has a long list of prohibited items that aren't allowed aboard its fleet of ships. Many of the items, including illegal drugs and explosives, are common sense. 

Sometimes, however, the line between what's banned and what guests consider harmless isn't very clear. For instance, many passengers assume they can bring extension cords and steamers, but they are actually banned on Royal Caribbean ships. 

Recently, Royal Caribbean updated the verbiage on its prohibited items list to read: "'Smart' glasses from any of several manufacturers that can record video and audio are not allowed to be used in certain areas onboard the ship, including, but not limited to, public restrooms, Youth Program areas, medical areas, as well as the casino."

While the change was only recently made official on Royal Caribbean's website, passengers began noticing the updated policy online in late January. 

"Now RCL is apparently not allowing smart glasses even if just used as prescription glasses or sunglasses," catlovingcryptofella posted on the r/royalcaribbean Reddit thread, along with a screenshot from the Cruise Compass on Royal Caribbean's mobile app. 

"Smart glasses with video and audio recording capabilities are not permitted onboard. If a guest fails to abide by this policy, the chief security officer and captain are authorized to confiscate the smart glasses," the discreet notice reads. 

(Credit: @catlovingcryptofella/Reddit)

Since smart glasses can discreetly record video and audio, the devices invade the privacy of passengers and crew in public areas on its ships, particularly in spaces where individuals may not realize they are being filmed.

The prohibited items list continues to specify that guests who have prescription smart glasses should bring a backup pair that isn't smart-enabled. 

Royal Caribbean tightened the rules on cybersecurity and electronic interference equipment

Sometime after December 10, 2025, Royal Caribbean updated its previously vague "cybersecurity and deliberate electronic crime equipment" clause to include "satellite dishes, routers, and other networking equipment, any other deliberate electronic interference which would constitute criminal activity."

Because cruise ships rely on high-tech digital systems for navigation, communication, and entertainment, the clarification ensures that the critical systems are protected from unintended (or intended) interference. 

For example, the precise wording explicitly targets devices intended to hack, disrupt, or manipulate the onboard systems. These include signal jammers, hacking toolkits, and unauthorized travel Wi-Fi routers.

While some devices, such as satellite dishes, routers, and other networking equipment, were previously listed on the banned items list, the recent addition zeros in on the purpose of the item. 

Travel routers, for instance, were once used to save money by extending the connectivity of one internet package to multiple devices. Though seemingly harmless, they can also be used to create rogue networks that interfere with the ship’s Wi‑Fi system or even bypass security controls.

According to a survey released by the consulting firm Protiviti, cybersecurity is a top priority for businesses. 

Cybersecurity Drive reported that corporate leaders, including board members, chief financial officers, and chief operating officers, are "increasingly aware that cyber resilience must be embedded into enterprise strategy."

"This widespread prioritization underscores the almost universal recognition that cybersecurity is no longer a siloed IT issue but rather a strategic enterprise risk with implications for brand reputation, operational continuity, and regulatory compliance," Protiviti said.

As such, Royal Caribbean’s updated policy highlights the company's recognition that cybersecurity at sea is equally important as on land.

Read more: Royal Caribbean adds cyber threat equipment to its list of banned items on cruise ships

Royal Caribbean isn't the first cruise line to ban smart glasses

In December, MSC Cruises confirmed that smart glasses were banned from its ships, with its website saying, "devices capable of covertly or discreetly recording or transmitting data (e.g. smart glasses) are not allowed in [the ship's] public areas."

The news did not exactly come as a surprise, given MSC's reputation for being strict about filming on board its ships. In 2024, popular YouTubers Ben & David were banned from filming during a cruise on the MSC World Europa. The trip wasn't sponsored by the cruise line, as the couple had paid for the sailing themselves. 

While MSC eventually apologized to Ben & David, the incident highlighted just how seriously the cruise line takes privacy and why smart glasses, including Meta Ray-Bans or Google Glasses, suddenly appeared on the prohibited list.

Read more: MSC Cruises' unexpected ban angers passengers