Check out these Great Tricks and Hacks
Welcome to MAK’n Waves: Tips & Tricks!
This is where real cruisers share real wisdom—short, snappy tips from fellow travelers who’ve been there, packed that, and found a few clever ways to cruise smarter. Whether it’s a packing shortcut, a beauty routine that beats the humidity, or a go-to strategy for scoring a deal, these are the little nuggets that make every sailing smoother. If you would like to submit your favorite cruise trick or hack to be included on this page, visit our Guest Contributor page.
Guilt Free Streaming
“I download everything before I leave home.”
Since it seems the cost of cruise ship Wi-Fi continues to go up, we started taking a different approach. Before we leave home, we download any maps we might need (for port cities), e-books, playlists and some of our favorite shows to our tablets. Then I can unplug guilt-free and still have entertainment ready for sea days, the gym, or for our long flight home.
—Tomi L., Pittsburgh, PA
Never Be Without Your Passport
“I always keep a digital copy of your passport and cruise documents.”
I once had my carry-on stolen in Rome (thankfully recovered later), but having photos of my passport, travel insurance, and cruise check-in info on my phone and in my email made all the difference. It takes two minutes and can save hours of panic.
—Mindy C, Bethesda, MD
Keeping Crowds at Bay
“I only book my cruises in the shoulder season — same ship, smaller crowds.”
I’ve learned that cruising just before or after peak season is the sweet spot. Prices drop, ports are less packed, and you still get gorgeous weather. My September Mediterranean sailing was half the cost of a July one, and we practically had Santorini to ourselves.
—Robert G, Portsmouth, VA
Only Pack Carry-On Now
“I only pack carry-on now — even for a week-long cruise.”
After one too many lost-luggage scares, I made a rule: if it doesn’t fit in my carry-on, it doesn’t come. Rolling my clothes, using packing cubes, and wearing my bulkiest shoes on travel day has saved me so much stress. Plus, I’m off the ship faster when we disembark — no waiting around for checked bags!
—Sheri H, Agoura, CA
Motion Light in Bathroom Lets Others Sleep
I received a motion detector light from my travel agent. I used it on my last cruise and it was the best item! Cabin bathroom light switches are typically outside the bathroom so the light wakes everyone up in the middle of the night. The motion light lights up when you step into the bathroom and does not light up the entire cabin.
—Paula G., Gainesville, FL
Beauty Products
Using contact lens cases for decanting beauty products when traveling is a smart and convenient idea! These small, lightweight cases are perfect for carrying just the right amount of your favorite creams, serums, or liquids without taking up much space in your luggage. Simply fill each compartment with your products, label them if needed, and you’re ready to go! This way, you avoid the hassle of full-sized containers while ensuring you have your essentials on hand for your travels. It’s a budget-friendly and eco-conscious solution for anyone looking to streamline their beauty routine while on the move.
Susan K, Colorado
Reusable Silicone travel bottle
I can’t take a trip without my silicone travel bottles, whether driving for a long weekend getaway or taking a two week cruise. I fill these bottles with shampoo, sunscreen, and even laundry soap. They don’t leak, take up little space, and can be reused time and time again.
K. Burger, Illinois
Share Your Cabin Preferences Early
When your cabin steward greets you on embarkation day, let them know your preferred time for room service. For example, if you usually head out early for breakfast, mention it so you’ll always return to a freshly made cabin. A little communication goes a long way toward making your cruise more enjoyable.
—Michael K., Los Angeles, CA
Meeting New Peeps
My wife and I cruise often. We meet people from all over the world and often exchange phone numbers and email addresses. We found making up business cards to be a good idea. We include our names, phone numbers, and email addresses. We have one business card for the both of us and used Canva to create the business card and also to print them (the cost to print was less than $20).
Steve B. – Los Angeles, CA
Shoe Organizer for Storage
My wife and I always bring a clear over-the-door shoe organizer to keep things organized. We hang it on the bathroom door of our cabin and use it for shoes, sunscreen, meds, cords, and snacks organized and off the counters. Bonus: it folds flat in your luggage!
Joe McD. – Phoenix, AZ
Travel in Comfort
I take a lot of cruises during months that seem to be especially hot. My husband and I like to go on excursions in almost every port. What I find to be a lifesaver is a portable personal fan. I use a fan that I charge by USB at night, so every morning I am ready to go. I particularly like the fan that you wear around your neck in order to free up my hands for taking pictures, etc.
Sandy G. – Seattle, WA
Travel a day early to start your cruise stress-free
My cruise travel hack is to arrive at your cruise port a day early, if at all possible. While it may add a bit to your travel budget, arriving at your cruise port a day before departure can save you a lot of stress. Flights get canceled, delayed, or luggage can go missing, and having that extra buffer ensures you won’t miss your ship. Try to stay close to the pier—most hotels offer shuttles or can advise you on how to reach the ship efficiently. Plus, arriving early gives you a chance to pick up any last-minute items you might have forgotten in the rush. This small investment of time and money can make the start of your cruise far more relaxing and enjoyable.
—Shelley M., Los Angeles, CA