Cruising is a unique way of traveling and if you ask anyone that has been on a cruise for the first time, they will tell you that there are some things they wish they knew to pack before their first cruise. Today I am going to share with you the cruise accessories that I know to be practical and helpful for a cruise. Plus, they are all easily available on Amazon.

*Disclosure – This post contain affiliate links and this means, that with no cost to you, I may earn a commission if you purchase items through the links in the post. It helps support the blog and I only recommend items that I believe are useful.

Top Cruise Accessories To Pack For A Cruise

#1 Cruise Power Strip with USB Outlets

Outlets in your cabin are limited and you will need extra outlets to charge devices, camera batteries etc. Try one with multiple USB ports for charging multiple devices at a time.

By the way, cruise ships require your power strip to be non-surge protected or the cruise ship could take it away if they find it. This one here is ship approved!

Click the photo to see this one on Amazon. Under $20.

#2 – Watercamera/ Action Camera

Action cams are lightweight and small enough to throw in your bag without making it bulky. Use at the pool, the beach and on your underwater adventures. I never travel without one!

While everyone likes GoPros, there are some really good budget options available under $100 if you are on a budget. Here are several with great reviews for every budget.

AKASO 4K 20 MP Action Camera with 5x Zoom – This has amazing ratings and under $70.
Akaso EK 7000 4K – This has 4.5 starts out of 10,000 reviews
DRAGON TOUCH 4K Camera – $40 – $50
Campark ACT74 – Under $30

For a basic water camera, try the Fuji Underwater Camera. I like that I can zoom in and out with it and even take photos while in video mode.

#3 – Portable Charger

You never know when you may see that dreadful notice on your device that says LOW BATTERY! Always keep a portable charger on hand just in case.

This one by Ankor PowerCore, is lightweight for traveling.

#4 Light Weight Foldable Backpack

Pack a backpack that you can bring on the go. They are compact and easy to pack. Just take it out when you need it!

You may find this one helpful on port days or during excursions. Plus it comes in many colors and designs!

#5 Foldable Waterbottle

Have water available at all times to stay hydrated, especially in hot climates. These water bottles can fold up so that you can put it in your suitcase or bag easily when not using them.

#6 Binoculars

Binoculars will allow you to get a closer look at sea life you may pass while at sea, or beautiful scenery you sail by from the ship. And if you do an Alaska trip, you definitely don’t want to forget them!

These binoculars are a budget option and small for travel.

Top Cruise Accessories For Water Activities

#7 Snorkel Gear

I don’t know how many times I have gotten off at the port and been able to do some amazing snorkeling at a beach close to the port because I had my own snorkel gear. No tour was needed.

Be ready to snorkel anywhere and anytime with your own gear!

The full face snorkel masks are my favorite, but make sure to get a good one for safety! Not all masks are equal and you want to pay a little more for a good mask that provides enough clean air in the mask while snorkeling. I am recommending the Tribord Subea. Below because I have used this one safety for almost 10 snorkel trips. Get it here on amazon.

Prefer a traditional snorkel set? Do what makes you feel good in the water! That’s the most important thing.

And remember to bring fins like these!

#8 Quick Dry Towel

A dry towel packs down to nearly nothing in your suitcase or bag. It’s handly at the beach or pool without being bulky in your bag.

#9 – Waterproof Cases

You can turn your phone into a pretty good underwater camera with a simple phone pouch. They are generally under $10.

And keeps your phone dry in boats, by the pool etc.

You can even use a dry bag (like this one) or pouch (like this one) to keep your valuables dry while in the water. It’s never a good idea to leave your things unattended on any beach – no matter how “safe” it looks.

#10 Water Shoes

Use them on the pool deck or bring them for your cruise port excursions at the beach. They come in a lot of fun colors too!

Get Organized!

#11 Hanging Toiletry Bag

The counter space in most of the cabin bathrooms is minimal so a hanging toiletry bag will give you a bit more space and organization without feeling cluttered.

Plus, it helps you pack your toiletries neatly in your suitcase and makes for easy unpacking in your cruise room.

#12 Cruise Lanyard

This is rated the #1 Top Cruise Accessory on Amazon!

Every cruiser will get a cruise card and you will need to take this wherever you go. Not only is it your room key, but it also serves as your “credit card” while on the ship. Everything you buy onboard is charged to your room’s account and you are billed at the end of the cruise.

These lanyards will be very helpful to keep your cruise card on the go. This one has a silk satin ribbon making it comfortable to wear. Throw it around your neck and you won’t even notice it.

#13 Over the door hanging organizer

For those that hate clutter and like to stay super organized, a over the door organizer utilizes your space very well! You can get one on Amazon like this one OR, try a 99 Cent Store in your area for a budget option!

#14 Seabands for sea sickness

Some people get motion sickness on the ship. If you are known to get seasick, take some seabands with you or Dramamine. Seabands are one of the top cruise accessories for travelers because many people suffer from seasickness.