Journeys With Jani

By Jani Aylsworth-Gunter, Take Time To Travel

What I Wish I Had Packed on My Last Cruise (So You Don’t Make the Same Mistakes!)

Y’all, let me tell you—no matter how many cruises I take, I always manage to forget something. You’d think as a travel advisor, I’d have this down to a science (and for the most part, I do!), but my last cruise had me kicking myself for a few things I left behind. Consider this your friendly reminder from someone who’s been there, done that, and had to pay double for it at the onboard shop.

1. A Good Quality Power Strip (Cruise-Approved, Of Course!)

Ships are notorious for having, oh, maybe two outlets in your cabin—one of which is probably behind the bed or in some inconvenient spot. I don’t know about you, but between my phone, smartwatch, curling iron, and hubby’s gadgets, we need OPTIONS. A non-surge-protected power strip or a multi-port USB charger would have saved me from the nightly battle of “Whose device is more important?”

2. A Foldable Hanging Organizer

I thought I was being all minimalistic by not bringing my usual over-the-door organizer, and I deeply regretted it. Cruise cabins are small, y’all. There is no counter space, and before you know it, your toiletries, sunscreen, and random odds and ends are scattered everywhere like confetti at a Mardi Gras parade. A hanging organizer keeps things tidy and keeps me from losing my favorite lip gloss.

3. Magnetic Hooks

Did you know cruise cabin walls are metal? I do—yet I somehow forgot my trusty magnetic hooks, which are lifesavers for hanging hats, lanyards, bags, and wet swimsuits. Instead, I had to drape things over every available surface like I was running a floating laundromat. Never again.

4. A Lightweight Beach Bag

Look, I thought my cute little crossbody would be enough for excursions. Wrong. When you’re hauling sunscreen, towels, water bottles, sunglasses, and whatever random souvenirs you pick up, you need something practical. A packable tote would have saved me from looking like a tourist trying to juggle half the gift shop in my arms.

5. Better Walking Shoes

I always preach “comfort over cute” when it comes to excursions, but did I listen to my own advice? Nope. After traipsing around port in sandals that were more “fashion” than “function,” my feet were not amused. Pack the sneakers. Your feet will thank you.

6. A Reusable Water Bottle

Cruise ships have water stations, but I ended up buying overpriced bottled water at every port just to stay hydrated. A refillable, insulated bottle would have been a game-changer—and it’s way better for the environment than constantly tossing plastic bottles.

7. A Small First-Aid Kit

I can’t tell you how many times I’ve told clients to pack one, yet I didn’t have my own when I got a blister (see above: bad shoe choices) and needed some Advil. The ship has a medical center, but it’s way easier (and cheaper!) to have your own stash of Band-Aids, motion sickness meds, and pain relievers.

8. More Sunscreen

I brought one bottle. It lasted about three days. Ship prices for sunscreen are criminal, and I refuse to pay $25 for something I could’ve thrown in my suitcase at home for a fraction of the price. Learn from my mistake—pack extra!

9. A Good Book (or Two!)

I assumed I’d be too busy for much reading, but between poolside lounging and lazy sea days, I had way more downtime than I expected. Next time, I’m bringing a juicy novel to sip my piña colada with.

10. A Portable Fan

I love a balcony cabin, but sometimes the air circulation isn’t the best. A small, rechargeable fan would’ve been the MVP for keeping the room cool and drowning out hallway noise at night. Live and learn!

Final Thoughts

Packing for a cruise is part science, part strategy, and a little bit of luck. While I managed just fine, I could’ve been a lot more comfortable (and saved some cash!) if I’d thought ahead. So, take this list, pack smart, and enjoy your cruise like the seasoned traveler you are—without making the same mistakes I did!

Bon voyage, y’all!

Jani, your go-to-gal at Take Time To Travel

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