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27 items you should always pack in your cruise carry-on bag

Before arriving at the cruise terminal, make sure you have a separate carry-on bag for essentials. 

The porter will assist you with your larger pieces of luggage, and you won't see them again until you are onboard. Likely, your suitcase won't be delivered until a few hours after you embark. 

As such, you don't want any important travel documentation, medicine, or valuable items stashed away in your luggage. It's common sense not to pack your cell phone or passport, but what about luggage tags?

Here are 27 items you should always pack in your carry-on bag!

Guide to the Celebrity Captains Club loyalty program

It pays to be loyal to Celebrity Cruises. One of the leading premium cruise lines in the world, Celebrity is known for its upscale ships, worldly destinations, and top-tier service. 

The more you sail with Celebrity, the faster you'll climb the ranks of its Captain's Club program. The highest tiers earn benefits like complimentary drinks, free laundry, and discounts on Wi-Fi!

I stayed in a tiny inside cabin on Symphony of the Seas because it was the cheapest option. The $1,400 stateroom lacked natural light, but I'd stay in it again

Symphony of the Seas is one of the world's largest cruise ships. However, I discovered that the cabins are far from spacious. I stayed in an inside cabin on a weeklong cruise to the Caribbean from Miami, Florida. It was my first time in an interior stateroom, and I wasn't sure what to expect. 

The 228,081 gross registered ton ship has over 2,700 staterooms onboard capable of accommodating 6,680 guests at maximum capacity. 

I went on the major cruise lines. These are the best cruise ship waterslides right now

Cruise ships are floating resorts packed with everything from multiple restaurants and bars to theaters, rock climbing walls, mini-golf courses, go-kart tracks, and surf simulators. Recently, however, cruise lines have been upping their waterslide game. 

In the past few years, popular mainstream cruise lines like Royal Caribbean, MSC Cruises, and Norwegian have introduced mind-blowing waterslides, transforming the top decks into aquatic playgrounds. 

I sailed on Carnival Conquest for the first time: 13 things I loved and hated

After previously cruising onboard Carnival Celebration and Carnival Vista, I was intrigued by a relatively cheap cruise onboard Carnival Conquest. 

Carnival's Conquest Class ships aren't the newest or the flashiest. However, with five ships in the class, they remain a fan-favorite for their modest size and simplistic offerings. 

I sailed with Carnival's premium and basic cruise lines. Both have their appeal, but I'll stick to one for future cruises

It's hard to explain what makes a vacation on the ocean stand out, but it's been my preferred way to travel since I was five. 

There's something special about listening to the sound of the waves and looking at the infinite horizon. There's also something unique about sailing on a floating resort with activities and dining options under one roof. 

Why are MSC cruises so cheap?

MSC Cruises is known for having some of the lowest cruise fares amongst giants like Carnival and Royal Caribbean, making them an appealing option for people looking for cheap cruises. 

The European cruise line has become increasingly popular in North America. Not only do they have some of the best budget-friendly cruise prices, but they also often include add-ons like basic Wi-Fi and drink packages. This beats other lines that often charge $80+ per day for their alcoholic drink packages!

Jaw dropping cruise ships with family suites

Cruise ship cabins are smaller than traditional hotel rooms and accommodate two to four passengers. If you have a large family, you will likely have to book two cabins or splurge on a large family suite. 

Two standard cabins will typically be the best budget-friendly option. However, some families might want to splurge on a once-in-a-lifetime experience! 

Today's newest ships have an impressive line-up of family suites, ranging from Icon of the Seas' Ultimate Family Townhouse to Carnival Celebration's Excel Presidental Suite. 

Bonine vs. Dramamine: Which motion sickness medicine is better? (2025)

Many first-time cruisers are worried about seasickness. You know, that annoying feeling where the motion of the ship makes you feel ill? Thankfully, there are remedies to help combat the negative side effects of motion sickness. 

Over-the-counter medications like Bonine and Dramamine are inexpensive, work quickly, and are highly regarded among people who go on a lot of cruises, myself included! 

10 things you won't find on a Disney cruise

Today's cruise ships are impressive. They have everything from massive water parks to roller coasters, surfing simulators, and more. 

Disney Cruise Line remains a popular option for those hoping to mix classic Disney magic with a cruise vacation. However, Disney does things quite differently than other mainstream lines, such as Royal Caribbean and Carnival. 

For example, Disney doesn't offer drink packages or flexible dining times, which isn't always ideal for those who enjoy laid-back cruises that don't revolve around three-course dinners. 

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