6 Cruise Cabin Hacks to Make Your Stateroom More Livable
Cruise cabins aren’t known for their space — and if you’ve ever tried to share one with family, you already know how fast things get tight.
But here’s the good news: with a little planning (and a few clever hacks), you can make even the smallest stateroom feel more spacious, organized, and comfortable.
Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned sailor, these six hacks will help you live large — even in a tiny cabin.
1. Use Every Inch — Creatively
Cruise ship cabins hide tons of storage spots — you just have to find and use them.
Check under the bed (perfect for storing suitcases), behind mirrors, inside ottomans, and even in the closet’s upper shelves. Use drawers in unexpected places, like under the vanity or behind the nightstands. You can even store shoes or small bags in the cabin’s overhead cabinets (some ships have them above the bed!).
The trick? Think vertically and don’t let any nook go unused.
2. Bring Magnetic Hooks (Yes, Really)
Cruise ship walls are usually metal, which means magnets stick almost everywhere — even doors and ceilings.
Pack a few strong magnetic hooks and use them to hang backpacks, lanyards, sunhats, wet swimsuits, or toiletry bags. This frees up valuable surface space and keeps clutter off the floor.
Pro tip: Use small pushpin magnets to dry swimsuits or organize papers. Just be sure to pack them away from electronics in your luggage.
3. Use Hanging Organizers
Storage space is limited, especially in the bathroom. Solve that with a hanging shoe organizer or mesh caddy.
Hang it on the bathroom door (with hooks or magnetic clips) and use the pockets to store sunscreen, medications, brushes, hair ties, sunglasses, and more. Everything stays visible, tidy, and easy to reach — no more digging through drawers or cluttering the vanity.
Bonus: They’re super lightweight and pack flat in your suitcase.
4. Keep One Suitcase Open Under the Bed
Storing your suitcase under the bed is a classic space-saver — but here’s the hack: keep one open.
Designate it as your dirty laundry bin. Toss used clothes straight in, and by the end of the trip, your clean clothes stay separate and packing up is a breeze. Even better? Line it with a laundry bag so you can pull everything out in one go.
5. Optimize Charging with a USB Hub
Most cruise cabins have very few outlets — and you’ll probably be charging phones, cameras, tablets, and more.
A compact USB hub or wall adapter with multiple ports is a must. Just make sure it’s cruise-compliant (no extension cords or surge protectors — most lines ban them).
Look for models with USB-C ports for faster charging, and consider one with both US and European plugs to make the most of every outlet in your room.
6. Use Packing Cubes for Easy Organization
Packing cubes aren’t just great for your suitcase — they’re a game-changer in small cabins.
Unpack your cubes directly into drawers or stack them on shelves. They’ll keep outfits grouped together and make it easy to grab what you need without causing a mess. You can even designate one for swimsuits, one for evening wear, and one for casual clothes.
The best part? When it’s time to go home, repacking takes minutes.
Final Thoughts
You don’t need a suite to cruise in comfort. With a few simple items and smart habits, your cabin can feel organized, livable, and even relaxing.
From magnetic hooks to packing cubes, these small changes make a big difference.
Happy cruising — and enjoy every square foot! 🌊🛳️
I am Zoe Grace, a passionate enthusiast of cruise ships. With a decade of firsthand experience in the cruising industry, I have developed a deep understanding of the intricacies and wonders that these majestic vessels hold.
Now, I am excited to embark on a new journey as an author, sharing my knowledge and insights with readers who share my fascination for the world of cruising.
Join me as we explore the captivating world of cruise ships together.
