What do collapsible hats, long electronic cables and magnetic hooks have in common?
These are all items you should take on a cruise, according to a longtime cruise ship employee.
Keri Noble currently works as cruise director on the 5,714 passenger ship MSC Meraviglia for MSC Cruises and has nine years of industry experience.
During her time at sea, she has traveled the world to dozens of destinations, from Mexico to the Mediterranean.
Sail below to soak up a cruise expert’s top packing tips for a smooth vacation.
Keri Noble currently works as cruise director on the 5,714 passenger ship MSC Meraviglia for MSC Cruises
A lifeline! Packing Cubes will change the way you pack
Keri says they are the key to effective packaging.
“A few years ago, packing cubes caused a stir among travellers. As someone who basically packs a suitcase for work, packing cubes not only help with packing, but they also allow you to put a lot more stuff in your bags,’ she told DailyMail.com.
“Whether you store the cubes in a backpack or in a suitcase, the packing cubes can help you stay organized and allow you to pack more clothes to prepare for all the theme parties on board.”
Be smart with your electronic devices and their respective wires
To make sure your phone doesn’t run out of juice, Keri advises investing in a power bank.
“Some people like to throw their phone in their room on a cruise vacation, but for those who want to stay connected, bringing a power bank to charge your phone on port days is essential,” she said. declared.
‘Another tip is to buy an extra long cord for your cell phone. Outlets are often a long way from the bed, and if you like scrolling through social media like me before bed, an extra-long cord will come in very handy.
‘Last tip, don’t forget a plug converter depending on your destination. MSC Cruises offers two socket options in the cabins for electronics – bringing a converter gives you access to more sockets.
A good suitcase will last you for years and make traveling easier
“If you travel for a living like me, or if you travel occasionally, investing in durable luggage will make all the difference,” says Keri.
‘No one wants to travel with a squeaky wheel (literally or figuratively).
“In terms of storing your luggage, space is at a premium on cruise ships, but most of the time your suitcase will fit under your cabin bed. Many people forget that this storage space exists.
“Some people like to throw their phone in their room on a cruise vacation, but for those who want to stay connected, bring a power bank,” advises Keri.
KEEP ALL THE ESSENTIALS TOGETHER: A lanyard is essential for a worry-free trip
Don’t want to lose any of your important or essential items?
Keri recommends travelers pack a lanyard to keep them in one place.
“While sailing, your cruise pass, government-issued ID, and sunscreen are all you really need,” the cruise director said.
‘For this reason, I recommend that you bring a lanyard to wear your cards around your neck. That way it goes where you go, and you never have to worry about leaving it anywhere or losing it in a bag.
Do not overload! Leave some room for gifts
Be aware of the extra trinkets you’ll pick up along the way for your loved ones, so make sure there’s room in your suitcase.
“While it’s tempting to pack all your favorite clothes, remember to leave some space for gifts,” Keri advised.
“Whether they are gifts for yourself or for your family and friends, the ship and the destinations offer unique souvenirs.”
Don’t get caught! Bring cash for port days – and tips
“Although you don’t need it on the ship, you never know when the money will come in handy on a day in port,” the cruise manager added.
“Depending on where you are going, it may be easier to buy things with cash rather than a card.
“It’s also nice to have a little extra to give to those who help you clean your room, pour your favorite drink, or carry your luggage.”
Packing for a cruise can be tricky as some itineraries can last several weeks
Carry extra wash bags for dirty clothes and shoes
Separate your dirty clothes from your clean clothes by packing laundry bags.
“The last thing I want to think about when I’m packing to start a trip is the dirty laundry waiting for me when I get back, but I never forget to pack a few extra laundry bags to store my dirty clothes during. my trip, so it doesn’t mix with my clean clothes,” Keri said.
“Another option is to have your laundry done on the ship. Although not for everyone, it is certainly an option offered by the ship.
Get collapsible hats and magnetic hooks to save space
Don’t forget to get those space savers, like a collapsible hat or collapsible drink bottle.
“A lot of times the biggest difference comes from exchanging things we want to bring for more travel-friendly options,” Keri said.
‘I like to bring a hat when I travel, especially when spending time in the sun, but instead of bringing a normal hat, I opt for a travel-friendly collapsible hat and even go so far as to bring a bottle collapsible water bottle that becomes small when empty as a lightweight and easy to carry option.
“I also like to bring magnetic hooks to attach to the walls for more space for my clothes.”
“I like to bring a hat when I travel, especially when spending time in the sun, but instead of bringing a normal hat, I opt for a travel-friendly collapsible hat,” says Keri.
Ration the items you need and leave bulky boxes at home
Don’t pack your bulky vitamin or prescription bottles.
“If you take vitamins or medications daily, spread them out in a small package and leave the bulky bottles at home,” Keri advised.
“Also take a look at what your cruise offers in terms of toiletries and soaps.
“They often provide shampoo, conditioner and shower gel. And just like in a hotel room, there’s no need to bring your bulky hairdryer from home.
Finally, research ports of call before you set sail!
Finally, Keri says the best way to know what to pack is to research the destinations you’re traveling to.
“While cruises offer guests the opportunity to sit back and relax, be sure to do some research before boarding the ship to see typical weather. [at] ports of call to make sure you pack properly,” she explained.
“Also be sure to review the excursions you sign up for, as some of them require you to wear sneakers or bring a towel from the ship.”
