Trip Ideas Intelligent Traveler These Easy, Expert-approved Packing Tips Will Make Your Next Cruise Vacation Even Better T+L’s ultimate guide to packing smart for your next cruise. By Paul Brady Paul Brady Paul Brady is the news director at Travel + Leisure and the brand's expert on cruise travel. He has been covering the travel industry for more than 15 years for outlets including Condé Nast Traveler, Skift, and The Huffington Post. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines Published on February 26, 2023 Close Most ships offer more than you’ll ever need, but bringing along a few extras can take a trip from good to great. Photo: RELAXFOTO.DE/GETTY IMAGES Some say the best thing about traveling by ship is that you only have to unpack once. But what’s inside your suitcase can make the difference between a smooth sail and a frustrating time at sea. We tapped leading experts in cruise travel for their advice on the must-haves for your next departure. Strong Magnetic Hooks “Most cruise ship walls are metal,” says Eric Goldring of Goldring Travel, a cruise specialist and member of T+L’s A-List of travel advisors. “Small hooks are great for hanging hats, bags, and the like — things that aren’t suited for drawers — and they’re particularly useful on the back of the bathroom door.” A Packable Backpack Getty Images “I’m not much of a ‘gear’ gal,” says Mary Curry of Adventure Life, another A-List member. “But a super-compact backpack, one that you can throw in your suitcase on the way there, is perfect for bringing souvenirs home.” A Sleep Kit Westend61/Getty Images “I also always bring an eye mask,” Curry says. “Cruises in polar areas often have a lot more light than you expect!” Mobile Protection iStockphoto/Getty Images “Whether you’re going to a beach, jumping in a Zodiac, or dodging a rain shower, it’s a good idea to have a waterproof bag or case for your phone,” says Rob Clabbers, a member of T+L’s Travel Advisory Board and president of Q Cruise & Travel. The Ultimate International Trip Packing List Your Favorite Travel Mug iStockphoto/Getty Images “Small luxury cruises now provide almost everything you’d need — suites on Scenic are even equipped with Dyson hair dryers plus all the attachments,” says Mary Ann Ramsey, an A-List advisor with Betty Maclean Travel. “But I always pack a no-spill Yeti tumbler so I can bring my coffee on early morning excursions.” An International Data Plan “Most carriers offer monthly data plans that make overseas travel that much easier,” says Ashton Palmer, an A-List expert and president of Expedition Trips. A Magnifying Mirror “Many clients tell me that a makeup mirror is a welcome addition to a cabin bathroom,” Palmer says. “Not all ships have them.” A version of this story first appeared in the February 2023 issue of Travel + Leisure under the headline "All in the Details."