Ahhh, the first cruise. The excitement! The chaos! The 17 overpacked bags! Whether you’re celebrating a graduation or just need sunshine and someone else to cook, cruising can be absolute magic—if you pack a few tricks alongside your flip flops.
I’ve cruised with Disney, Royal Caribbean, and Virgin Voyages, and while they each have their own flavor, some cruise hacks are universal. Let’s get you prepped like a pro—even if you’re a total first-timer.
🚢 Cruise Hacks from a (Now) Seasoned Cruiser
1. Pack smart, not stressed.
There’s a reason I made an Amazon list just for cruise essentials—because no one has time to dig through Pinterest rabbit holes at midnight. A few MVPs:
- Magnetic hooks (the walls are metal—hang all the things)
- USB hub (outlets are scarce and everyone’s charging something)
- Soft-sided cooler for beach drinks or balcony snacks
- Refillable water bottles + electrolyte packets
- Lanyard for your key card
- Sunscreen…and more sunscreen
- Portable fan
- Sea-Bands or motion sickness patches—just in case
2. Don’t overpack. (But do pack smart.)
Cruise cabins aren’t huge, and you’ll likely re-wear outfits. Bring layers, comfy shoes, and a dressier option for dinner if your cruise line requires it. A small laundry kit or wrinkle spray can go a long way.
3. You don’t need an excursion every port day.
Cruise lines love to upsell activities, but some of our favorite days have been the simple ones. You can absolutely hop off the ship and explore on your own—just set a return alarm so you’re not “that person” sprinting down the pier.
4. Want to swim with the pigs? Or do something epic?
Pick one splurge-worthy excursion and go for it. Whether it’s pigs, dolphins, zip-lining, or cooking classes—do the thing you’ll talk about forever. Then let the rest of your trip be breezy and budget-friendly.
5. Nassau Tips (because you’ll probably go there):
This port gets a mixed reputation, but you can have a great time if you know what to expect:
- Walk with purpose—Nassau is busy and full of tour vendors. A confident “No thank you” goes a long way.
- The Queen’s Staircase and nearby forts are walkable and fascinating.
- Junkanoo Beach is a 15-minute stroll and free, with chairs and drinks.
- Stay alert, travel light, and keep valuables secure.
6. Use the ship’s app early and often.
Dining reservations, show tickets, messaging, maps—it’s all on the app. Download it before you board, and check for updates as soon as you’re on Wi-Fi.
7. Embarkation day is its own animal.
Board early if you can, but bring a day bag with your suit, sunscreen, and snacks. Your luggage might take hours to reach your cabin. Also: don’t wear your “travel day” stress onto the ship. You made it. Breathe.
8. Try something new every day.
Cruises are full of surprises—silent discos, karaoke, sunrise yoga, martini tastings. Pick something that stretches you. Even if it flops, it’ll be a story.
💡 Quick Tips for First-Time Cruisers
- Use airplane mode at sea unless you want a shocking phone bill.
- Leave the beach towels at home—the ship provides them.
- Bring Ziplocs or wet bags for beach days and wet swimsuits.
- Keep your passport (or ID + birth certificate) safe but accessible.
- Cruise casual is a thing—don’t stress about matching the influencers.
Planning your first cruise—or ready to finally feel relaxed at sea? Check out my cruise essentials list on Amazon, or reach out if you want help crafting a stress-free, memory-packed itinerary. I’ve got you.
