Setting sail on a cruise holiday promises adventure and relaxation, but it also presents a unique packing challenge. With long stretches at sea between port stops, ensuring your suitcase is perfectly packed can make or break your trip. Fortunately, travel experts have revealed a collection of simple, affordable items that can transform your onboard experience, starting with a secret weapon costing less than a cup of coffee.
The Under-£2 Wonder: Banish Wrinkles Instantly
One of the top recommendations from packing professionals is a humble yet powerful tool: a crease release spray. Michelle Gear, Head of Technical and Product Development at clothing company Klass, strongly advises travellers to pack this item. "When you're on a ship, irons and steamers are often prohibited for safety reasons," she explains. "A crease releaser is a lifesaver for smoothing out wrinkles that appear after your clothes have been folded in a suitcase for days."
The good news is that this essential doesn't have to break the bank. A travel-sized 100ml bottle of Lenor Spring Awakening Crease Releaser can be picked up for just £1.49 from Wilko, making it an incredibly accessible hack for any cruiser.
Maximise Space and Stay Organised
But a crease-free wardrobe is just the beginning. Michelle Gear advocates for several other clever items to keep your cabin in order and your holiday stress-free.
Packing cubes are heralded as a game-changer for organisation. "If you’re on a no-fly cruise and baggage allowance isn't a concern, packing cubes help compact your items so you can fit more in your suitcase," says Gear. This is particularly useful when you need outfits for a range of activities, from formal dinners to poolside lounging. A set can be found for around £14.99 and is reusable for countless future trips.
Another space-saving hero for the compact cruise cabin is the magnetic hook. "Walls are often metal on cruise ships," notes Gear, "meaning these hooks can be easily attached and used to hang clothing, bags, or accessories, freeing up precious drawer and wardrobe space." Packs of these versatile hooks are available on platforms like Amazon for approximately £6.79.
Prepare for the Inevitable: Spills and Stains
Life on a busy cruise ship means accidents can happen. A knocked-over cocktail or a smear of sun cream can quickly ruin an outfit. Instead of relying on expensive and potentially slow onboard laundry services, Gear recommends being proactive. Stain remover wipes are a compact and effective solution to tackle spills immediately, saving you both time and money. A pack can be purchased for about £7.27.
Finally, for clothes that have been packed away and might develop a musty smell, a simple scented solution exists. Tumble dryer sheets tucked into your suitcase or drawers will impart a fresh, pleasant aroma to your garments throughout the voyage. They take up negligible space and a pack of three is priced around £11.99.
By incorporating these expert-approved, affordable items into your cruise packing list, you can focus less on luggage logistics and more on enjoying the open sea and exciting destinations. A little preparation with these smart travel hacks ensures a smoother, more organised, and ultimately more enjoyable holiday from the moment you step into your cabin.
