My First Cruise: What I Took and What I Should Have Left Behind
My First Cruise Experience
Today’s post, “My first cruise: What I Took and What I Should Have Left Behind,” comes courtesy of my sister. She wrote a post for me a while back, and since she recently took her first cruise, I talked her into another! Believe it or not, it’s been over 30 years since I went on a cruise, so I was really interested to hear what she thought about the whole thing. Spoiler alert: she loved it! Take it away, sister.
My First Cruise
Every year for the past ten years, I’ve traveled to a fun location with my “Hog-eye” girls. We’ve known each other since kindergarten, and when we turned 50, we decided to go on a trip together. Since then, we’ve gone to fun places like New York, Savannah, Nashville, the Dominican Republic, and more! This year, the “cruisers” in the bunch convinced the rest of us to try one. I’m so glad they did, but it took a lot of planning (and shopping) on my part. Here are the details:
- Cruise line: Royal Caribbean
- Ship: Ovation of The Seas
- Destination: 5 Day Cruise to Cabo San Lucas
Cruise Packing Essentials for First-Time Travelers
Samsonite Luggage – Spot It Fast at Baggage Claim
My luggage was old and beat up, so I decided it was time for an upgrade. I wanted an outer pocket so that I could reach my laptop during the flight. This Samsonite Luggage fit the bill nicely. It’s affordable and has all the bells and whistles that I needed. Tania gave me a great tip. She said to tie a bath pouf around the handle. It worked like a charm. EVERYONE spotted my luggage the second it came through the airport.
Compression Cubes – Neat But Not Magical
This was my first time using Compression Cubes. I must have watched a hundred TikTok videos that showed clothing being stuffed into a cube and miraculously shrinking by three inches. That wasn’t my experience. They MIGHT have made a tiny difference in space, but it was very, very little. Still, I did like them for keeping my things organized. I knew exactly where to find my bathing suits, jewelry, shorts, etc. I put the cubes into drawers and for once in my life, the room stayed neat and clean!
Hanging Travel Toiletry Bag – Small Spaces, Big Help
This was a great buy. The bathrooms don’t have large vanities, and with two women sharing, we used every available spot. The Travel Toiletry was super easy to hang and keep all of my toiletries organized.
Lanyard for Your Cruise Card – Don’t Cruise Without It
I had no idea I’d need a lanyard, but thankfully, the rest of my crew did. If you haven’t cruised before, you definitely want one of these to carry around your key card. Not only does the card open your door, but it’s also how you pay for drinks, shopping, etc. If you lose it, anyone who picks it up could spend freely. I tucked it under my clothing for pictures.
Shampoo Bar – A Smart Space-Saving Hack
This is one of my favorite hacks. Since I was traveling for a 5 day cruise, the weight of my luggage was a real concern. One of my friends brought TWELVE pairs of shoes, lol. I wasn’t that bad but I still wanted to keep things light when I could. Instead of a shampoo bottle, I bought this Shampoo Bar and conditioner bar. Then I cut them in half and put half of each into the small box. They worked like a charm! Super small and light.
Magnetic Hooks – Must-Have for Cruise Cabins
Every single cruiser I listened to said to bring Magnetic Hooks, and they were right. There aren’t many places to hang things, but since the staterooms are metal, these babies worked great. I put a couple by the door for my lanyard and straw hat. My roomie brought a couple that were heavy duty and those worked better for heavier things, like a hanger with the night’s outfit.
Cruise Fan – Stay Cool at Night
I get really hot at night, so I was worried about traveling without a fan. While we had mild weather and great AC, I was still happy to have this Cruise Fan along. It’s magnetic, so I just attached it to the ceiling and let it run for background noise. It has several speeds and you can set it to run for up to 6 hours. The cord was too short to reach the plug, so I’m not sure if it would run continuously if plugged in, but I would think so. If you take it, be sure and pack an extra long USB cord.
Downy Wrinkle Release – Your Iron-Free Friend
Steamers and irons aren’t allowed on a cruise ship, so if wrinkles bother you, grab Downy wrinkle release. I’d never used it before, but it worked fine on my t-shirts and skorts.
Non-Drowsy Dramamine – My Secret to Avoiding Seasickness
I get carsick going through a drive-thru, so I was really worried I’d have an issue at sea. Not at all! I took one Non Drowsy Dramamine capsule every morning, and I didn’t have any problems. There was even a day when the ship put out “barf” bags on each floor, something that our experienced cruisers had never seen before, yet I didn’t get queasy or sick once.
USB Hub – Solve the Power Outlet Shortage
Plugs are RARE. There were two AC plugs by my bed, and two on the desk area, and that was about it. With phones and fans and hair straighteners, etc., we were way short. I’d purchased a cruise approved power strip, but learned right before leaving that Royal Caribbean no longer allowed them. Sigh. The USB Hub helped a bit by letting me save the AC for the hair dryer.
Poo-Pourri – A Tiny Room Essential
Poo-Pourri was something a lot of experienced cruisers suggested. The bathroom/staterooms are tiny, so it’s a good idea if you want to be a good roommate. Small and affordable, and you’ll be thankful if you need it!
What I Wore on My First Cruise
The Cabo Short Set – Cute, Cool, and Comfortable
My sister gave me a TON of clothes for the trip, but I did have to buy a few things. This Short Set was perfect for the day at Cabo. All of the Hog-Eye gurls wanted the link. It was comfy and cool, and the pockets came in handy.
SPF Sun Hat – Stylish Sun Protection
A Sun Hat was a MUST, and this one also includes SPF. Packing it was simple. I put it in the middle and stuffed the fan above in the center. Then I simply put my cubes around it so that it wouldn’t crease or fold. It came home looking just as good as it did when I left!
My First Two-Piece in Years – Turning 60 Boldly
I haven’t worn a two-piece in years, but I decided, “what the heck!” I’m turning 60 this year, and life is too short to worry about what other people think. It was time to let my belly see the sun! The Two Piece Bathing Suit was comfortable and covered me appropriately. No one jumped off the ship after seeing me in it, so WINNING.
What I Could Have Left Behind
Don’t get me wrong, I LOVE these shoes. I was determined to take them to wear on our Fine Dining night, but truthfully, my black shoes would have worked fine, and it would have been one less thing to take up space. Plus, they were brand new and not broken in. Not the kind of thing you want to wear when walking up six flights of stairs because you’re trying to work off some of the calories you’ve been consuming.
First Cruise Tips I Learned the Hard Way
- Don’t bring new shoes unless you’ve broken them in.
- Skip the power strip and bring USB hubs instead.
- One nice outfit is plenty, cruise style is more relaxed than expected.
That’s it, my cruise recap! Let Tania know in the comments if you found this helpful. Maybe she’ll send me on another cruise so I can write a follow-up post!
Frequently Asked Questions About My First Cruise
I recommend packing magnetic hooks, a travel-size fan, a lanyard for your key card, wrinkle release spray, and a shampoo bar to save space and weight.
Compression cubes were a game changer! I used them to keep outfits grouped by category and placed them directly in the drawers.
It depends on the cruise line and if you plan to dine at upscale restaurants. I brought one dressy outfit, but found I could’ve simplified.
I was worried, but Non-Drowsy Dramamine worked wonders. I took one each morning and never felt queasy.
Each time you share my posts on PINTEREST, INSTAGRAM, YOUTUBE, AND FACEBOOK, it not only helps other ladies who might be style-challenged find my blog, but it also strengthens our community. Furthermore, I appreciate every one of you and consider you a friend.
Are You One Of The GURLS?
You’ll receive a daily email reminder from me, keeping you updated when a new blog post is published. Additionally, a special email might occasionally appear in your inbox, so be sure to keep an eye out for it.
To GOD Goes The Glory!
Verse Of The Day
Matthew 5:3 (NIV)
3 “Blessed are the poor in spirit,
for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Great read! I have enjoyed lots of cruise vacations. My favorite was the Panama Canal trip!! And yes, I always always over pack.
I do hope you can get another cruise out of your sister. 😉
Thank you for the good tips! I’ll be ordering several of your items. Happy to see you had a good time.
🙂 These are super tips! Never heard of a shampoo bar, so I learned something today!
🙂 I haven’t been on a cruise in several years but these are all great packing tips. Thanks!
😀helpful
Helpful hints for someone who has never taken a true cruise! I made note of how magnetic hooks are useful in a cruise cabin and of the importance to check what types of device charging gadgets are allowed by cruise lines. Your sister is cute and helpful just like you, Tania!
Thanks, Jackie. She is a big help to me on the blog.
😊 Thanks for the cruising tips! I have never taken and cruise. My girlfriend group is trying to convince me to go!
☺️ Great suggestions. I wear a patch for sea sickness. It works. Never was hot to need a fan. Will add metal hooks to list.
Great post! As someone who has gone on several cruises, I always like to see tips for things to pack that I hadn’t thought of – LOVE the portable fan suggestion (although my husband probably wouldn’t agree! 😁 I definitely need a ceiling fan to sleep comfortably)! Another great option to avoid seasickness is Bonine – I’ve taken it since I was a child and I’ve found that it works better for me than Dramamine. Also love the suggestion to bring magnetic hooks. I’ve used a hanging travel bag for decades and they are amazing. And thanks for the suggestion for the travel size wrinkle release spray – I have a full size one at home that I use regularly and it didn’t occur to me to look for one I can travel with! Thanks again!
I’ve used packing cubes for quite a few years as well as the Downy spray. Princess cruise line have medallions in place of a key card and can be worn as a watch or necklace and unlocks your door as you approach your room.
😃 cute sun hat. Looks like a fun time.
Twelve pairs of shoes WOW!!!!
🙂. This came at a good time! My daughter is thinking about a cruise for the family to celebrate my granddaughter’s 16th birthday and their 20th anniversary in 2027! It’s been 15 years since our last cruise so things have really changed!!
🙂
Great tips. I’ve taken the magnetic hooks on our last cruise.
I never have been on a cruise, and your sister was SO lucky to go. I do get to travel once in a while, and these tips are GREAT!! I’m making notes, even if it is an overnight 4 hour drive, many of her tips are valuable.
🙂 Great suggestions from your sister! Even the poo-pourri!
Stephanie
Great tips and information! I took screenshots of the items that you recommended and will share with my friends.
Good to hear from you, Patti!
This article is so helpful. I didn’t know about the metal hooks but will be getting them for my next cruise! The fan is a DEFINITE!!!! The rooms are soooo hot!
🙂 Those magnetic hooks are a must have!
This was a very helpful post. Thank you for all of the wonderful tips!
😊 Great post! I’ve never been on a cruise, and dont anticipate going on one anytime soon, but your tips look very helpful. I do use Downy Wrinkle reducer because I dont like to iron! I love the Cabo short outfit!!
😉 Tricky spot Great information.
😊 I have never been on a cruise. Your sister’s tips for what to take sound great. She is an excellent writer.
Thank you for the useful post! We aren’t cruisers but can certainly use these products for other travel!
Those magnetic hooks are so handy for hanging wet swimsuits or something you may have washed. Going on a cruise later this year and I’m bummed about the power strip. I’ll have to look into the USB hub.
The magnetic hooks are a life saver on a cruise. I’d forgotten about shampoo bars. I’ll have to try those on my next cruise or vacation.
🙂
Great post!
Great ideas for packing, not just for a cruise, but for some vacation locations.
Your info is spot on! I have been on five cruises and used all of the items you suggested. Thank you for this helpful article!
🙂 Great post. I forgot my magnetic hooks my last cruise and it was awful. Jackets and my husband’s baseball caps every where!
Such good info, been on one cruise and it was a very relaxed dress code, but there are people who choose to dress up. Love the packing cubes for keeping things organized.
Thank you for these great tips. We are leaving this sunday for a 10 day cruise to Greece. I have a few of these things but need a couple more . Thank you.
😊 Glad you had fun on the cruise. your tips were excellent!
😊Love this post! Thanks for the great tips.
Great post!!!!
🙂 Found it.
And now I have the cruise bug!
What a great post! I have packing cubes and use them when I travel. I pack by outfits in them and they work great. I was told by a friend when you pack for a destination vacation, i.e., a cruise, Hawaii, Mexico, to pack your bag then take half out. I did that and still didn’t wear everything i took. I also love the idea of the snap bars. I’ve seen so many ads about them, but was skeptical of them. I’ll give them a try now. Love all your ideas! Thanks!
🙂 Taking my first real cruise soon and appreciate the recs!
Great cruising tips! I’m glad no one jumped off the ship because you wore a two-piece bathing suit! You have a good sense of humor!!! Shampoo bar – what a great idea!
Lisa did a great job! Never been on a cruise and probably won’t ever, but some of these travel tips will be useful for other kinds of trips. 🙂 Lots of great product recommendations. Especially the wrinkle release spray, because this gurl hates ironing and doesn’t want to have to pack a clothes steamer. LOL!
I have only been on one cruise. thankfully my son is a frequent cruiser. he gave us many great tips including the lanyard, fan, and hooks.
Even though we won’t be going on another cruise, thank you for sharing your tips with us. Very well written! I’m glad that you had a good time.
Nicely written and informative post. I was looking at a hanging travel toiletry bag for my trip to France as bloggers say the bathrooms in France have no counter space and are a must have. I’m eyeing the shampoo bar and fan.
Looks like a great time for these beautiful women.
🙂 Good info! Wish I had read it 10 years ago when I was on my cruise binge. Still good info for other trips, like the Downey wrinkle release.
🙂 Love to cruise! I never thought of magnetic hooks, genius. We have only cruised on Oceania and our rooms have plenty of storage. I have been taking the pooporie and Downey spray on all our cruises. Our next cruise is Tokyo to Seattle 20 days. It’s not until May 2026 but I am already thinking about what will be comfortable and stylish. Shoes are tricky you certainly don’t want to over pack but you want to be prepared. Cheers to your next cruise.
🙂lots of
Good ideas!!
😊Fabulous Post Lisa!!!
Excellent luggage tag idea Tania!!! I have only been on one cruise and that was to Alaska in which I used quite a bit of these suggestions.
I bet you ladies had an absolute blast. Great pics! I agree, Tania can send you on another cruise so you can write another post.😜
~Lisa~
I’ve cruised quite a few times, but have never seen the cruise magnetic fan! That is such a GREAT idea for my husband, who is always hot! And extra strong hooks are also a great idea (I used dollar store ones in the past, which were great for lightweight things, but strong ones would have been even better.) Awesome post!
Wonderful post. I agree with all that you said and your suggestions are right on. I wish you had been in my life 20 years ago when cruising began for me. I’m a slow learner and just need someone to say do this and not that.
😊 Fun! Thanks for the tips
Extremely helpful. Not doing a cruise, but going to a resort in Mexico. Alot of this could apply. Thanks for the suggestions!
🙂 Found It! Another fun one to find! We have been on a few cruises and wished I knew about these tips and items. Great post!!
Great tips! Thanks!
Your sister did a great job
Love the idea of bar shampoo!
Great info! Especially, for someone who has never cruised. Thanks for a great post!
Great post! I’ve never been on a cruise before also so hoping in the near future I can use these tips!
😅 I finally found it! What fun. Friends are a treasure.
Great hacks too.
What a great post! Very helpful as I will be going on my first cruise soon!
Such good tips! I’ve been on 3 cruises and still did not know some of these! Especially like the Poopouri!!!
😊 these are some great ideas for cruising! I love the short set and plan on ordering the bar shampoo and conditioner! You have me looking now for my next vacation!
I also like the studded slide shoe too
This was very helpful! My husband and I are planning a cruise later this year. We haven’t done one for years! I especially liked the lanyard! Never thought about that!
Your sis did an awesome job with this post!! 🙂
I think so, too!
😊Looks like alot of fun! Packing is always a challenge….some good tips here.
🙂 I have never been on a cruise. Good information!
Your sister writes as well as you do Tania! I’ve never been on a cruise. This was very informative. The swimsuit is beautiful…though I could never wear it. I like the idea of bar shampoo and conditioner. I might use that for all my travels in the future.
Well, she is the writer in the family. I could only hope to write like her.
those shampoo bars are a great tip!
can’t find it 🙁 but I love these recommendations!! Added the toiletry bag to my cart. I’m not going on a cruise yet but I’m going to Spain next spring, so I’m planning now.
What a great list of items for cruising! For traveling by plane to anywhere, I love the idea of the shampoo and conditioner bars. GENIUS! And…the shower scrubbie for the luggage identifier, excellent! My ribbons are looking bad.
:):) thanks for all the great tips!
😀been years since I was on a cruise. Great tips
🙂 I’ve only done two cruises. Carnival and Disney. Disney was by far my favorite. Disney was FABULOUS!!!
I found ginger root works well on cruises and you can still take Dramamine if needed. It helps with air travel too. The more you cruise the better organized you get. My daughter did really well on a Disney cruise. She packed the kids clothes tops and bottoms in zip lock bags. It worked great.😊
Found it :). Lots of great info, thanks.
Thank you for this post! Your suggestions are
My BFF and I are taking this exact cruise next month to celebrate my birthday! This was very helpful!
Thanks! I’m going on a cruise in July. Did you have enough hangers? Thanks for the tips!
She had enough hangers because her cabin mate brought her clothing on some.
😀 Great post! Lots of great tips!
🙂 Great information for when I go on a cruise…someday…
😊great blog! Looks like so much fun!
Great tips! Love the suggestion of bar shampoo and conditioner. That could be useful for any vacation. 🙂
Great post! You and your friends are just beautiful!!!
This is really worthy information for any of us gurls who travel and aren’t road savvy!
The cubes keep belongings sanitary- I traveled with Lysol wipes for years! My Mary Kay roll up makeup bag goes everywhere!
These tips are great, too, when traveling to spend a few days with family!
Lots of great advice. Glad you had a fun trip.
Thanks for the info! We are going on our first ocean cruise this fall. This is very helpful.
This is perfect timing for you.
😊 I’ve never been on a cruise but these are some good tips for things to bring.
Enjoyed your sister’s story. Interesting and informative. Learned some great stuff.
🙂 100% agree with you on the packing cubes! Glad you had fun.
Thanks for the info! Going on a 1st time cruise in August and I’ve been hoping you would post suggestions or capsule wardrobe! Yay
Everything is spot on! I agree with you about the packing cubes, I used them for undergarments and swimsuits. The only smile I could locate this morning are the smiles on the beautiful ladies faces! Being on a cruise will do that to you! So much fun!
😆 i fly a lot and have been putting the bath puffs on my luggage for a long time. I wven have my friends who travel a lot putting the bath puffs on their luggage
😁 great tips, thank you
😊I do the same, I pack too much, and my husband tells me do you need all those items. I said yes!
The loofa idea is a great (and inexpensive) way to identify your luggage! 😊
🙂 Great post with good tips!
Great post, thanks for the helpful tips!
🙂 Very helpful, thanks!
😊What a fabulous group of friends! So many great tips! I love the short set and I need the sun hat. Love that it comes with a chin strap since the beach can be windy at times.