10 Tested Cruise Ship Cabin Hacks for Maximizing Space

You’ve probably heard of cruise ship cabin hacks before, those clever little tricks that claim to maximize the limited space in your cabin. Well, in this video by Royal Caribbean Blog, the author put ten of these hacks to the test to see if they are truly effective. They selected the most promising tips from various articles and videos, giving a shoutout to Cruise Tips TV and Life Well Cruises for their helpful suggestions. The purpose of this video is to determine whether these hacks can actually help maximize space in a smaller cabin. The author shares their personal experience with each hack, rating them as either worth it, meh, or not practical. Despite their own opinions, the author acknowledges that many people have found these hacks to be useful over the years. So, read on, dear viewer, and discover whether these tested cruise ship cabin hacks can truly make a difference in maximizing space during your next cruise!

Table of Contents

Hack 1: Using the space under the bed for luggage storage

Explanation of the hack

When it comes to maximizing storage space in your cruise ship cabin, one hack that often goes overlooked is utilizing the space under your bed. Most cruise ship beds are elevated off the floor, leaving a significant amount of valuable space just waiting to be utilized. By taking advantage of this hidden storage area, you can keep your belongings organized and easily accessible throughout your cruise.

Benefits of utilizing the space under the bed

There are several benefits to utilizing the space under your bed for luggage storage. Firstly, it allows you to free up valuable floor space in your cabin, making the room feel more spacious and less cluttered. Additionally, it keeps your luggage out of the way, reducing the risk of tripping over it or constantly having to rearrange it. Lastly, by storing your luggage under the bed, you can easily access it whenever you need to retrieve or pack something, saving you time and hassle.

Tips for maximizing storage in this area

To make the most of the storage space under your bed, consider the following tips:

Invest in bed risers: Bed risers are inexpensive and can increase the height of your bed, providing even more storage space underneath. Look for ones that are sturdy and have a nonslip surface to ensure the bed remains stable.
Use luggage organizers: Utilize luggage organizers, such as packing cubes or compression bags, to keep your belongings neatly sorted and compacted. This will help maximize the amount of luggage you can fit under your bed.
Label your luggage: Label your luggage with clear tags or color-coded markers, making it easy to identify specific items or quickly locate what you need. This will save you from rummaging through multiple bags.
Store rarely used items: Take advantage of the space under your bed to store items that you won’t need frequently, such as formal attire or bulky winter clothing. This way, you can keep your cabin more organized and accessible.

By implementing these tips, you can efficiently utilize the space under your bed for luggage storage and make the most of your cruise ship cabin’s limited space.

Hack 2: Using an outlet extender to overcome limited power outlets

Importance of having multiple power outlets

In today’s tech-savvy world, having multiple power outlets is crucial for charging various electronic devices simultaneously. However, cruise ship cabins often have a limited number of power outlets, leaving you struggling to charge all your devices at once. This is where an outlet extender comes in handy.

Introduction to outlet extender as a solution

An outlet extender, also known as a power strip or surge protector, is a device that allows you to plug in multiple devices into a single power outlet. It typically has multiple outlets, USB ports, and surge protection features to ensure your devices are powered safely.

Instructions on how to use an outlet extender

Using an outlet extender in your cruise ship cabin is simple and can provide you with the convenience of multiple power outlets. Follow these steps to make the most of your outlet extender:

Choose a reliable outlet extender: Look for an outlet extender that has enough outlets and USB ports to accommodate all your devices. Ensure that it has surge protection capabilities to safeguard your valuable electronics.
Locate a suitable power outlet: Find a power outlet in your cabin that is easily accessible and preferably near your bed or workspace.
Plug in the outlet extender: Plug the outlet extender into the power outlet. Make sure it is securely inserted to prevent any power interruptions.
Connect your devices: Connect your electronic devices to the outlet extender. Take care not to overload the outlet extender by exceeding its maximum power capacity.

By using an outlet extender, you can overcome the limited power outlets in your cruise ship cabin and charge all your devices conveniently.

Hack 3: Motion sensor night light for navigating the cabin at night

Understanding the challenge of navigating a dark cabin

One of the challenges of staying in a cruise ship cabin, especially at night, is navigating in the dark. Often, turning on the main lights can disturb your sleeping cabinmate or create a jarring contrast with the surrounding darkness. This is where a motion sensor night light can be a game-changer.

Introduction to motion sensor night light

A motion sensor night light is a small, battery-operated light that automatically turns on when it detects motion in its vicinity. It provides a soft, ambient glow, allowing you to navigate your cabin without disturbing others or fully illuminating the space.

Benefits and usage tips for motion sensor night light

Using a motion sensor night light in your cruise ship cabin offers several benefits. Firstly, it provides enough light to safely move around while maintaining a peaceful atmosphere. Secondly, it saves energy by only turning on when motion is detected, prolonging the battery life. Lastly, it can serve as a gentle nightlight for a soothing ambiance during your sleep.

To optimize the usage of a motion sensor night light in your cabin, consider the following tips:

Positioning: Place the motion sensor night light strategically in areas where you frequently navigate, such as near your bed, bathroom, or entrance. This ensures that it activates when needed, allowing you to move around safely.
Battery conservation: Opt for motion sensor night lights that have adjustable settings to control the light intensity and duration. This will help conserve battery life and prevent unnecessary illumination.
Test the range: Before relying on the motion sensor night light, experiment with its range to determine the ideal placement. You want it to activate when you enter the area but not be triggered by minor movements outside its intended zone.

By incorporating a motion sensor night light into your cruise ship cabin, you can navigate safely at night without disturbing others or compromising on the peaceful ambiance.

Hack 4: Sunrise alarm clock for windowless cabins

Exploring the issue of waking up without natural light

For individuals staying in windowless cruise ship cabins, waking up can be a challenge since they miss out on the natural light that typically signals morning. However, with a sunrise alarm clock, you can recreate the experience of waking up to the gradual illumination of daylight.

Introducing the concept of a sunrise alarm clock

A sunrise alarm clock, also known as a dawn simulator, is designed to mimic the rising sun by gradually increasing the light intensity in your cabin. It helps regulate your body’s internal clock and can make waking up a more gentle and natural experience, even in a windowless environment.

How to use a sunrise alarm clock effectively

To maximize the effectiveness of a sunrise alarm clock in your cabin, follow these steps:

Set the alarm time: Determine the desired wake-up time and set the alarm accordingly. It is recommended to set it 30 minutes before you actually need to wake up to allow for the gradual light transition.
Adjust the light intensity: Most sunrise alarm clocks have adjustable light intensities. Start with a low intensity and gradually increase it over the span of 30 minutes to replicate the gradual illumination of natural light.
Position the alarm clock: Place the sunrise alarm clock near your bed or at a visible spot in your cabin. Ensure that it is positioned in a way that allows the light to reach your sleeping area effectively.
Experiment with additional features: Some sunrise alarm clocks offer additional features, such as nature sounds or radio alarms. Experiment with these features to find what works best for you in terms of creating a soothing waking experience.

By incorporating a sunrise alarm clock into your cruise ship cabin, you can wake up in a more natural and gentle manner, even without the presence of natural light.

Hack 5: Using fridge magnets for organizing and hanging items

Importance of staying organized in a small cabin

In a small cruise ship cabin, staying organized is essential to make the most of the limited space available. One simple hack for keeping your belongings in order is utilizing fridge magnets for organizing and hanging items.

Using fridge magnets for maximizing storage

Fridge magnets can serve as versatile tools for maximizing storage in your cabin. Consider the following ways to utilize them effectively:

Hanging lightweight items: Attach small hooks to fridge magnets to create convenient hanging spots for lightweight items such as small bags, hats, or towels. Place the magnets on metal surfaces, such as metal walls or cabin doors, for easy access.
Securing documents: Use fridge magnets to keep important documents, such as cruise itineraries or excursion tickets, easily accessible. Attach them to a metal surface near your workspace or on a designated magnet board.
Creating a noticeboard: Stick reminder notes, to-do lists, or photos onto metal surfaces using fridge magnets. This helps keep important information visible and prevents cluttering your cabin with loose papers.
Organizing toiletries: Attach small metal containers to fridge magnets and store your toiletries, such as toothbrushes or cotton swabs, in an organized manner. This frees up counter space and keeps your essentials easily reachable.

By harnessing the power of fridge magnets, you can create additional storage and effectively organize your belongings in your cruise ship cabin.

Hack 6: Using a laundry hamper for organizing dirty laundry

The challenge of keeping dirty laundry off the floor

One of the challenges of living in a small space, such as a cruise ship cabin, is finding a proper place to store dirty laundry. With limited floor space, it’s crucial to keep your dirty laundry off the floor and properly organized.

Benefits of using a laundry hamper in the cabin

A laundry hamper can be your ally in keeping dirty laundry contained and organized in your cabin. Here are some benefits of using a laundry hamper:

Neat and tidy space: By utilizing a laundry hamper, you can avoid the sight of scattered dirty clothes on the cabin floor, creating a cleaner and more organized living environment.
Easy transport: Most laundry hampers have handles or wheels, making it convenient to transport your laundry to the ship’s laundry facilities or your disembarkation point.
Odor containment: A laundry hamper helps prevent unpleasant odors from spreading throughout your cabin by keeping dirty clothes in one designated space. This can enhance the overall freshness of your living quarters.

Tips for efficient usage of a laundry hamper

To make the most of your laundry hamper in the cabin, consider the following tips:

Choose the right size: Select a laundry hamper that fits comfortably in your cabin, taking into account the available space. Consider collapsible or stackable options for easy storage when not in use.
Use laundry bags: Line your laundry hamper with laundry bags to sort your laundry by color or type. This makes it easier to transport and sort your clothes when it’s time to do laundry.
Follow ship regulations: Be mindful of any laundry guidelines or policies provided by the cruise line. Some ships may require specific procedures or provide laundry bags for guests.

By incorporating a laundry hamper into your cruise ship cabin, you can keep your dirty laundry organized and your living space tidy throughout your voyage.

Hack 7: Over the door hanging shoe organizer for additional storage

Explanation of limited storage space in cabins

One common challenge in cruise ship cabins is limited storage space. With compact living quarters, it’s essential to find creative solutions for maximizing your storage options.

Introduction to over the door hanging shoe organizer

An over the door hanging shoe organizer can serve as a valuable storage solution in your cruise ship cabin. While its name suggests it’s exclusively for shoes, it can be ingeniously repurposed to organize a variety of items.

Ideas for utilizing the hanging shoe organizer effectively

Consider the following ways to make the most of an over the door hanging shoe organizer in your cabin:

Toiletries and cosmetics: Utilize the pouches of the shoe organizer to store your toiletries, such as travel-sized shampoo, conditioner, and body wash. Hang the organizer on the bathroom door for easy access.
Accessories and small items: Use the pockets of the shoe organizer to store smaller items like jewelry, sunglasses, and electronics accessories. This helps keep these items within reach, preventing them from getting lost or cluttering your cabin.
Snacks and drinks: If your cruise ship allows outside food and beverages, use the compartments of the shoe organizer to store snacks and small bottles. Hang it near your bed or desk for convenient access.
Daily essentials: Place frequently used items like sunscreen, bug spray, and hand sanitizer in the shoe organizer’s pockets for quick retrieval. This eliminates the need to search through drawers or countertops.

By repurposing an over the door hanging shoe organizer, you can effectively create additional storage space and keep your cabin neat and organized throughout your cruise.

Hack 8: Curtain divider for privacy in shared cabins

Challenges of privacy in shared cruise ship cabins

In shared cruise ship cabins, privacy can be a luxury. With limited personal space and shared facilities, finding creative ways to establish privacy within your living quarters becomes essential.

Introducing the concept of a curtain divider

A curtain divider is a practical solution for creating privacy in shared cabins. By installing a curtain across the cabin, you can partition the space and create a private area, providing a semblance of personal space.

Tips for installing and using a curtain divider

Here are some tips to consider when installing and using a curtain divider in your shared cruise ship cabin:

Check with your cabinmate: Before installing a curtain divider, have a conversation with your cabinmate to ensure they are comfortable with the idea. Respect their preferences and make adjustments accordingly.
Choose a tension rod: Opt for a tension rod curtain divider that doesn’t require drilling or permanently attaching anything to the cabin walls. This allows for easy installation and removal without leaving any marks.
Select blackout or privacy curtains: To maximize privacy, choose curtains made from blackout or privacy fabric. These materials block out light and keep the interior of the cabin concealed.
Coordinate with the ship’s decor: Consider selecting a curtain that complements the ship’s decor to maintain a cohesive look and feel within the cabin.

By utilizing a curtain divider, you can create a sense of privacy and personal space in shared cruise ship cabins, enhancing the comfort and overall experience for both you and your cabinmate.

Hack 9: Leaving the TV on the outside channel to mimic daylight

Why natural light is important in a cabin

Natural light plays a crucial role in our well-being, contributing to our mood, sleep quality, and overall sense of happiness. However, in some cruise ship cabins, especially those without windows, access to natural light may be limited or nonexistent.

Using the TV as a substitute for natural light

To mitigate the absence of natural light in your cabin, you can use your cabin’s TV to mimic the effects of daylight. By leaving the TV on the outside channel, which typically shows live footage of the ship’s surroundings, you can create the illusion of natural light streaming into your cabin.

Setting up the TV to mimic daylight effectively

To effectively use the TV to mimic daylight in your cabin, follow these steps:

Locate the outside channel: Check the onboard TV guide or ask the cabin steward for information on the channel that shows live footage of the ship’s surroundings. Usually, this channel is available on most cruise ships.
Adjust the TV settings: Ensure that the TV’s brightness and color settings are adjusted to create a natural and soothing light effect. Experiment with the settings to find the most comfortable and realistic appearance.
Use a timer feature: If available, use the TV’s timer feature to automatically turn on the outside channel in the morning. This replicates the gradual lighting transition experienced with natural daylight.
Be mindful of energy consumption: While using the TV to mimic daylight can enhance your cabin’s ambiance, be mindful of energy consumption. Turn off the TV when you leave the cabin or when the effect is no longer necessary to conserve energy.

By using your cabin’s TV to mimic natural daylight, you can create a more pleasant and visually stimulating environment even without access to natural light.

Conclusion

In conclusion, maximizing space and creating a comfortable living environment in a cruise ship cabin can be challenging, but with the right hacks and creative solutions, it’s entirely possible. By utilizing the space under the bed for luggage storage, utilizing outlet extenders, incorporating motion sensor night lights, using sunrise alarm clocks, using fridge magnets for organization, employing laundry hampers, utilizing over the door hanging shoe organizers, installing curtain dividers, and using TVs to mimic daylight, you can enhance your cabin experience and make the most of the limited space available.

These hacks have gained popularity among cruise ship travelers due to their practicality and effectiveness in optimizing the cabin’s storage, privacy, and ambiance. So why not give them a try on your next cruise?

We would love to hear about your favorite cruise ship cabin hacks! Share them in the comments below or head over to our YouTube channel, where we discuss more travel tips and tricks. Don’t forget to like and subscribe for more helpful content!

Bon voyage and happy cruising!