13 *NEW* Amazon Cruise Must-Haves (I'm packing now!)

[@LifeWellCruised]

Planning a cruise? Get The Ultimate Cruise Planner. It's a 47 page printable cruise travel planner with packing checklists, shore excursion planning forms and much more! ($10 off for a limited time). Here are the details: lifewellcruised.com/ultimate-cruise-planner

[@Cdnangie]

Have you considered creating an app for your ultimate cruise planner? I would definitely purchase it if it were in electronic format. I don’t particularly want to print out a bunch of pages and having it on a phone or tablet would be easier to use.

[@FloridaGiGi]

Ilana said it is downloadable which makes it available electronically, without an app. It’s on your laptop, or your iPad, or even your cell phone. Print the pages you need to print.

[@cynthiajordan8751]

I couldn’t get the cruise planner to download to my iPad. I requested a refund and am still waiting

[@mindesslover143]

@@cynthiajordan8751 if it’s a pdf you can upload it to your iPad then you can export it into good notes or whatever you use

[@pw-sz6ds]

@@mindesslover143 that sounds like extra work. I think people want simplicity.

[@kathleenshields-xr6lx]

I did download the planner but would probably pay a little extra for a spiral- bound laminated planner. Then I could use an erasable marker to use over and over again😊

[@jenniferdruyor-collins3244]

I have Hey Dudes, love them. A suggestion: I don’t care for the no-show socks but it was suggested that I get them and put them on, upside down, on the insole of the shoe. That way the insole doesn’t get dirty or sweaty from bare feet. I got black socks and have changed them periodically.

[@dawnwhaley7325]

I bought the no show footie socks for my husband's Hey Dudes too. It worked so well, that I started using them in my sketchers and any shoes with a removable sole. Love It!

[@PeachysPlace]

I think I will pick up the toiletry sleeves. I usually unscrew the lid, place plastic on it then screw the top back before putting it in my hanging toiletry bag. The sleeves really look better, but the plastic worked for me as well. I have a little over 30 days before I leave, so I am really in prep mode right now.

[@khoward819]

That’s a great idea!

[@vcjtx]

I used the Ultimate Cruise Planner for the first time this year. It was very helpful. I downloaded it & then imported it into GoodNotes on my iPad. In GoodNotes, I was able to make copies of pages or delete pages that I didn't need. I used my Apple Pencil to make lists & check off as I packed - it was well used. Since I have the original download saved, I can use it over & over again for each future cruise. I can even import some of the pages for non-cruise travel. Great planning tool!!

[@lindaprice1876]

Thank you Illana. Every time I think I’m done shopping for cruise “essentials”, I watch your videos and decide I want more 😊

[@Happiness379]

Same here

[@dawnwhaley7325]

Great Tips as always! When I travel with carry on luggage, I pack all my toiletries in a plastic "shoebox" and place it at the bottom of the suitcase by the wheels. I can pack all of my full sized products and the plastic box keeps everything from getting smooshed.

[@pinksnoopydancer]

I have done that too!

[@stacyross4714]

Ilana, We just cruised NCL last week for our first NCL cruise. Your videos helped me soooo much! I feel I have a different perspective travelling as a family of 5 with 2 teens and an 11yo in 1 family cabin.😱 Without your storage tips, our cabin would have been a cluttered mess. Super helpful items included: magnetic hooks, over door organizer, pop up laundry hamper, water bottles in the emptied fridge, multi plug charger, hanging shoe organizer, pop up canvas bins. Extra hangers were in our closet upon arrival and I packed the 5-pant hangers also. My hubby is having neck issues due to being rear ended the week prior. I asked the attendant to place an egg crate on the bed and he was more comfortable. I didn’t know that was an option prior to your video. We plan to cruise again to Alaska in May on our 1st Princess cruise. I plan to watch your videos for Alaskan videos for more tips. Thank you.Thank you. Thank you. Keep it up! I have liked and subscribed! Bye for now. Stacy

[@LifeWellCruised]

I’m so glad the tips & videos were helpful! I agree, when you’re more than 2 in cabin, you need a few tricks up your sleeve 😂

[@michellelynnhenry1202]

Love your channel! Am a very experienced cruiser, but am taking whole family on Western Caribbean cruise on 4/1/23 and have used many of your tips. I didn’t purchase your planner, but for big trips I have a 1 inch 3 ring binder with clear page protectors to get me thru airports and on and off ships, customs, etc. I put in cruise documents, flight documents, excursion documents and I have a 3 holed pencil case with zipper for passports and luggage tags.

[@leeannkleine6120]

Adding the hat clip and mineral powder sunscreen to my list. I have the luggage skins that are printed fabric instead of the plastic. They work great, and help you to easily identify your luggage. They are also machine washable, and secure with snaps and zippers. I have water bottles specific for travel made by Yeti. They have a wider mouth opening for ice, and will usually keep cold for 10 to 12 hours. Looking forward to the review of Virgin Voyages!

[@LifeWellCruised]

Awesome!! Thanks

[@leeannkleine6120]

@@rachnailedit It was only $24.95 on Amazon, and I had a $10 credit so I paid less than 15.

[@mitchellbelinda50]

I use the large zip lock freezer bags to keep toiletries in. I enjoyed video, a several things I’ve never seen before!! Thanks for sharing 🛳️🛳️

[@JoeFrohlich]

I appreciate this video. You are not hawking products. You are just giving viewers suggestions as to what might work for them.

[@lyudmilaboring3454]

I always packed toiletries in ziplock bags. Thank you, Ilana, for your suggestions. Powder sunscreen is a great invention! I'll definitely look for one!.

[@sherigreene7028]

So many good ideas - Thanks for including. I always travel with a projection alarm clock. Especially when crossing multiple time zones, being able to just roll over and see what time it is helps me to adjust more quickly!

[@isabels5140]

Those Hey Dude shoes are great, my husband bought 2 pairs! They also make them for women, in so many beautiful colours, I bought myself a pair too, very comfortable and light weight. I highly recommend them! 😊

[@LifeWellCruised]

Great to know!

[@lalasteen3860]

I unscrew my bottles/tubes and put plastic wrap over the opening and then screw the lid back on. Always play it safe by putting them in a leak proof bag.

[@Jazzykatt23]

Would really love a video on dresses and best places to shop.

[@LifeWellCruised]

I have a dress video planned

[@lap8329]

A quick thought on water bottles. A bottle with a mouth wide enough to drop in ice cubes is always my preference.

[@mrscrush59]

So glad I found your channel! Binge watching all your videos now. I’m going on my first cruise in January 2024 on the new Celebrity Ascent and I’m loving all your tips and hints. Thank you!!

[@annanc7652]

Contigo Jackson Chill 2.0 Stainless Steel Water Bottle, 20 Ounce, Pink Lemonade & Licorice We found these water bottles before our last cruise. We absolutely loved them. Easy to carry with the handle. Also you can hang them on the back of the door in the bathroom.

[@rottie615]

I saw a suggestion where someone said feed and clip your necklaces through drinking straws to stop them from tangling.

[@allboggs5337]

Hi Ilana! The mineral powder sunscreen looks like a fantastic item to try for my beach trips. Thank you for sharing! My first cruise was last year at this time, and I’m anxiously anticipating another one as soon as possible. I watch your videos to keep me in that cruise mode feeling. Thank you for all your helpful tips and inspiration! 🥰☀️🚢

[@wendycline27]

I love my Dude shoes! I have multiple pairs and yes, they do make them in women’s as well!

[@lindacomer2296]

A rubber for my shampoo!!! Hahaha. Every time I think I’ve watched every one of your videos, and I’ve seen every one of your essentials suggestions, you offer more! I’ll be ready for my cruise coming up soon. Thanks!!!!!

[@platyguin]

for anyone who wears foundation or other makeup, Milani has a makeup setting spray with SPF 30! sprays right on your face so it's super easy to reapply and works for all skin tones since it's clear. I have a powder SPF as well which I love, but can really only use it when I'm not wearing makeup and it does have a little bit of color. since I'm fair skinned it's not a big deal, but if I had darker skin it would definitely be noticeable.

[@ellabellalindo]

Ooh… that hat clip! 😍😍😍 Thanks for sharing!

[@eminiarvii]

Oy Illana You taught this gal new tricks ..heading to amazon right now! I especially like the hat clip, i have a very large sun hat and always a hassle carrying my beloved hat. Thank you Thank you for todays video🚢😊

[@monicareynolds8053]

I received that straw bag as a gift prior to my first cruise. I absolutely love it. I use it for every vacation!

[@ctaylor7943]

I use the personal item bag with the shoe compartment in the bottom. Since I am a carryon only person, this is essential for saving space in my carryon bag.

[@dianeallen7313]

My daughter bought me a pair of Hey Dudes and I plan on bringing them on our cruise next week. Super comfortable and in women's sizes too. I bring a reusable cup with a larger mouth. I like to put ice into my cup and I'd get it everywhere with a small mouth. Happy cruising! Can't wait to hear about it!

[@kaiulanisallas9005]

I love that you added all of your items to the description! So genius! I didn’t have to go back to an older video to find it. I love the watermelon dress! Such a cute find! I’m getting the iwalk charger, pill box and hat clip for sure! Thinking about the luggage protector! Thank you for including that!

[@dianelangdon2214]

Always enjoy your videos. Thank you.

[@eileenpoletick9538]

I just returned from the 2nd cruise of my lifetime. The last was over 20 years ago. I love the tips on your blog - very helpful. I have one tip which I didn't see that I'd like to share. As you know, the availability of outlets is insufficient for a couple with the usual cell phones, ipads, and watches, etc. In my stateroom on Liberty of the Seas there were two american outlets and one european. I always keep a converter in my suitcase so I was able to convert the one european outlet to accept my ipad charger. This coupled with your recommended motion detector outlet increased my outlets to four - just enough to charge 2 cell phones and two ipads.

[@Meeesa]

Those sleeves are a great idea! I just use ziplock baggies - which gets a little obnoxious when I have 20 baggies all over the place as unpack in a cabin/room. I'll definitely be looking into those sleeves!

[@CynthiaHiatt]

Sleeves look great! Will try

[@Sueb7403]

I love my hey dudes!!! I have a ladies pair that actually have a slight sparkle to them. They are so comfortable! My whole family where’s them

[@gwannysquare3012]

Ilana , just sonyou know I have watched and re watched many of your videos over and over ... while I am crocheting because you habe a calming to my soul voice and I dont mind re listening to your cruise hacks and advice just to reinforce what I need to do or plan to do for my cruises.

[@wslan6080]

Wanted to add that I purchased foldable hangers for my last cruise because you never get enough!! Worked out great! Definitely buying the toiletry and luggage protectors

[@alwaysright5901]

I bought hangers for my last cruise as well. I bought one plastic pack of 7 black hangers from Dollar Tree and they came in handy at a $1.25. Can't beat that!

[@sherrywagner8449]

I've had room steward bring extra hangers

[@craigarnold5872]

Because I’m a Dad, duct tape has worked for years to keep shampoo bottles shut. And since I always have a partial roll around the house, I bring it along for the trip home. Hey Dude shoes are great, light weight lounge shoes. I wear them around the house, however, they lack suitable arch support so I’d advise keeping them on board for excursions. Love your channel and used many of your suggestions on Radiance of the Seas out of Galveston February 27th.

[@terriewinkates4009]

Thanks Ilana, liked the water bottles and the tsa approved clear bags. Already have a clip for my hat.

[@brendasandusky6306]

Love to see some pics on just carry on for cruise

[@danellebradley1392]

Thanks for all your tips!!

[@deepshotone]

My must have's: Packing cubes, magnet hooks, over the door shoe rack...

[@michellebiggerstaff6841]

I love my Hey Dudes. Everyone in my family has them. Btw, if you don't like the feel of the soles, take the insoles out, and put a pair of no show socks on them. You don't have to wear socks, but you have the sock material in case your feet sweat.

[@lisagulley8051]

Great tips and products!

[@estherwilliams4346]

You always have such GRRRRREAT suggestions and ideas! Thank you! 🚢🍹💃🏿🧳

[@LifeWellCruised]

Glad you like them! :)

[@terribearden2744]

They make Hey Dudes for woman too and they are awesome!! Lighter than Sketchers even

[@jahbern]

These are great! I would add that if you are fair-skinned (and really, even if you aren’t), be very careful with sunscreen in powder products. You will need to reapply any sunscreen product regularly, and more so with powders - because they travel. Powders slide around on your face, especially when you sweat. If you’ve ever noticed that powder accumulates in your fine lines - that’s also where the sunscreen ends up (leaving the rest of your face unprotected). Maybe everyone already knows this, but based on how popular sunscreen powders are I doubt it. They may work well for an everyday sunscreen if you’re just running errands - but not if you’re going to be in the sun for hours. Stay safe and avoid cancer ❤

[@cdstark116]

We picked up colorful fabric luggage covers, and they have worked well both for protecting our luggage and for finding them in baggage claim at the airport and on disembarkation day after our cruise. They have done well so far and wash fine.

[@BarbieGirl-cl2uh]

Do you have an issue with these if TSA wants to inspect your luggage?

[@cdstark116]

@@BarbieGirl-cl2uh Haven't so far, they aren't locked. There's a zipper and strap on the bottom.

[@pamelagrundman476]

Ilanna... You're the best! Thank you for ALL of your informative videos! Hugs from Arizona, Pamela

[@elizabethhouse2910]

Some great finds! I'm especially interested in the mineral sunscreen! BTW, I bought TWO of the hanging jewelry organizers. I was impressed by how flat they pack, so I got one for my jewelry and one for my over the counter meds such as advil, bonine, immodium, bandaids, etc.

[@LifeWellCruised]

Great to hear!

[@malatto1035]

I'm not sure if it was this video I watched or another one, but I bought several of your suggestions and I was absolutely thrilled with them! The microfiber towels were fantastic, lightweight and easy to toss in the carry on bag you suggested! The command hooks were another great suggestion! And the beach cover up! Loved it all and just wanted to share a word of thanks! We had a great trip and enjoy following your travels!

[@douginfm3281]

I found some small magnetic motion sensor lights that are great for the bathroom (no need for the glaring light in the middle of the night) ! I also put one on the wall at the end of the bed, so no cracked toes finding your way in the dark!

[@maryhuiatt8518]

I’ve been looking for a bath light. Where did you get them?

[@SoloCruising]

Thanks for great video😊 My favorites are insulated bottle that keep liquids both hot or cold, day bag with zipper, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, 8x42 binoculars and one lightweight warm puffer coat for cruising out of San Francisco and an outer layer in Alaska❤I bought my long puffer coat from Costco and used it everyday; worked great as a windbreaker.

[@terrybiggs4418]

Got husband hey dudes for Christmas he loved them on our cruise last week.

[@lynneshapiro3248]

I can DEFINITELY recommend Ilana's Ultimate Cruise Planner! I've done tons of research, made Excel spreadsheet lists, and her Planner had things that I hadn't considered!! WELL worth it.

[@wen-nz3sk]

Will have to check out that mineral powder!! 👍🏽

[@theresamimnaugh1190]

Ilana, they also make Hey Dudes for ladies! They are amazingly comfortable, lightweight and breathable. Great for walking. Give them a try…note, they run slightly big, so 1/2 size down will be perfect. ❣️Happy Cruising!

[@dianepowers9643]

One thing i would mention is in your carry on, for any kind of travel, bring a change of indergarments in case tour luggae gets lost at the airlines. My mom told me this years ago and though it never happened to me, a friend was glad ahe did becausebher luggage got list and she could at least shower the next day and put on clean clothes. Her luggage arrived at the hotel the next afternoon

[@marcellae3999]

FYI, HEY DUDES are for women as well. I have boots and slip ones. Love them. Enjoy your cruise

[@monicap5054]

Thank you for these great tips! Can’t wait to hear how your Virgin cruise goes, enjoy!!

[@Healer4Peace]

Hi Ilana. Love these new suggestions! Just in time for a Spring Break cruise with my teen next week. I've already populated my Amazon cart with the hat clip, make-up bag and probably the luggage protector. Thanks so much for sharing!

[@ksinfl]

Same here!

[@christinaechavarria628]

I think water bottles with the small neck make it much more difficult to add ice.

[@stevesutherland824]

Thank you for the tip on the shoes, went out and bought a pair of The Dude shoes. They will be perfect for our upcoming cruise. Going on the Celebrity Eclipse leaving Sydney Australia April 6 and finishing 46 days later in Vancouver. Counting sleeps 😅

[@kr1234566]

Please send link for jewelry organizer. Thank you

[@ruthadams7133]

Love the luggage covers!!

[@wendyNJ13]

Always thankful for you sharing your fellow cruisers!!!❤

[@laurashedd3035]

Hi ILana👋. Going on my. first ever cruise on April 1st. I’ve been addicted to your channel and have gotten so many tips n info , thank you so much love watching n will be planning another cruise soon 👏 Bon Voyage 🛳️

[@thestylishdragon3D]

They make Hey Dude shoes in women’s styles also. I have several pairs and I LOVE them.

[@abigailgerlach5443]

The iWalk is that emergency charger for when you get caught by surprise.

[@k8isilly]

Hi Ilana! Can you please link the hanging jewelry bag? I didn't see it on your list but I definitely love that suggestion! I wanna get it for our 1 year anniversary cruise ❤ thanks for all the knowledge/experiences you share!

[@LifeWellCruised]

Oh no! So sorry I didn’t. I’m just at the cruise port now for boarding, but when I get to a computer later I’ll do that. Thanks for letting me know

[@beckylongoni4881]

Thank you for the ideas. Especially the leak locks😊

[@PortlyTravellers]

We are going on our 1st cruise soon, feeling confident thanks to you. You mentioned you are going on an Alaska cruise from Vancouver soon, us too. We are on a princess cruise at the beginning of May

[@LifeWellCruised]

Nice! We’ll be on HAL but maybe we’ll see you in a port :)

[@cheywagsphotography5387]

Hey Dudes makes shoes for women as well. My part time job, Rod's Western Palace also sells them

[@jessicarodriguez9594]

Hello! I came across your channel to prepare for our very first cruise with autism on the seas and your videos have been so. incredibly helpful! You’re wonderful 😊

[@eileenpoletick9538]

I have two bugaboos about cruising. First, after our first time at the buffet we vowed never again to enter that room except to pick up coffee or tea to drink on our balcony. The crowd is unmanageable and noisy and there is way too much food and way too many people over-filling their plates and then not eating it and leaving a mess on the table. We found it gross to observe while eating. What we ended up doing was ordering a light room service breakfast before heading out in the morning. We usually skipped lunch and then enjoyed a leisurely, and romantic, dinner in the main dining room or one of the specialty restaurants (I really appreciated your tip that a continental room service breakfast is complimentary - I would not have known this). I imagine that the buffet is a logical choice for people with small children but I can think of no reason why a couple of adults would choose to endure this free-for-all. The second bugaboo on my particular cruise ship was that while there seemed to be pools all over the place, there was not one of appropriate size to swim laps. This may not be the case on all ships, but I was disappointed that I could not partake of this exercise that I really enjoy on vacation. Perhaps space is an issue on cruise ships and a lap pool is not used by enough passengers to make it worthwhile. All in all, we thoroughly enjoyed our first cruise vacation. The stateroom and public areas were all clean and the staff universally pleasant and courteous. My only advice is to stay away from the buffet unless you have children with you! And teach your children not to waste food...

[@cecekeepingitreal3531]

Tape the lids down and zip lock bags

[@ladydi8376]

Just one week off of my cruise. This was my most favorite essential ! Could you it sitting at the desk, on the bed, or in the bathroom! Travel Makeup Mirror with 10X Magnifying Mirror, Vanity Mirror with 80LEDs, 3 Color Lighting, Rechargeable 2000mAh Batteries, Portable Ultra Slim Lighted Makeup Mirror

[@jessicaharris3468]

Hi Llana, can you please do a video on colder weather cruise essentials? Like on an iceland or norwegian fjords cruise? that would be SO helpful! we see so many videos of what to pack for hot destinations but none for colder climates! becomes a bit repetitive after a while!😊

[@LifeWellCruised]

Absolutely. We’ll be heading to Alaska next month and I’ll do this

[@Holliwag89]

Yes, I agree. We have an Alaskan cruise coming up at the beginning of June and would love to see see something to assist with packing for that.

[@kimberlytate2623]

THANK YOU FOR SHARING🙏✝️❤️👸

[@daisy3472]

Hi Ilana, can you please do an updated Amazon cruise essentials for Alaska since the Alaska season is soon coming up? Thank you and I love your videos.

[@jenniferk6697]

Yes! I’m going on an Alaska cruise in September (my first cruise), and would love to see that too

[@LifeWellCruised]

Absolutely!!

[@amybrown2109]

Oh that would be wonderful!

[@ErikaOtero-rd8jg]

LOL I have that same blue sundress w/leaves on it! i love watching your videos and tips to pack!

[@alasanasilvia5605]

BAGSMART Jewelry Organizer Case Travel Jewelry Storage Bag for Necklace, Earrings, Rings, Bracelet, Soft Pink I use this one and I love it because fits in the safe along with all my documents. I prefer not to leave my jewelry out in the open.

[@lorifoers6924]

Thank you...Have so much fun :)

[@mochacondulce]

Bagsmart is one of my fave brands! I have those two bags, the cosmetics bag and the jewelry bag. I also have clear pouches. The ones I bought come in all sorts of sizes. Great great! ❤

[@margaretwerner6690]

Just bought myself some Hey Dudes for my Cruise the in the beginning of April..... been wearing them and they are sooo comfortable. As for sealing your cosmetics...... I seal everything with my food sealer......works great. Love your Cosmetic !Lol

[@LiliyaA888]

Those toiletries sleeves are hilarious 😂

[@tduck828]

Looks like I will be buying several things!! Thank youuuuu!!

[@Chatterbox22]

Love hey dudes! Totally worth the hype and they make beautiful ones for women and kids also! ❤

[@CynthiaHiatt]

I love those clear pouches for my stuff. Unfortunately, these got rejected at TSA, they said they are not the right size for the liquids rule. Because we were Nexus, he said we could go thru since I didn’t have them full of stuff. Phew! I use them in my checked now.

[@avavanadams]

You are spot on! I was just about to message you about what to do with my hat and you have the solution. Thank you!

[@LifeWellCruised]

Lol, it worked so well!!

[@shirleysjourneys9505]

I acutally use that hanging jewelry bag as my travel medicine bag. Each little compartment has tylenol, imodium, anithistamine, dramamine, bandaids, etc.I took off the metal hanger just to save weight.

[@LifeWellCruised]

Smart!!

[@Kim-cz9lr]

So many great finds!! Thank you.

[@Batantinha]

Love your videos! So much I’ve learned from you. Going on my first cruise this week 😍

[@dolfantina4279]

I know this might sound odd but I always carry an extra shoelace in my purse. I broke one while on a walking tour and it was miserable trying to walk without A shoelace Even though I was able to use a piece of it

[@khoward819]

I’m excited to try that sunscreen powder and the toiletry sleeves! But you should get yourself some Hey Dudes as well. I’ve been living in mine for years. They’re the absolute most comfy shoes and they have a fantastic selection for women ranging from plain to fun patterns (my faves have been leopard, neon multi (because they match everything), and tie dye. We’re going on a cruise this summer and I’ve already bought a new pair for everyone in the whole family lol

[@Philippa-]

Great video. Going to buy a hat clip it’s brilliant.

[@debisantikian6718]

Thank you llana 😊great video,have a wonderful cruise 🚢

[@bibianae.campagna5776]

Waiting for the Alaska Cruise video!

[@jeanettereilly4040]

Hi Ilana, as usual I finish looking at your video and learn something new . We always relied on the plastic water bottles included in the drink packages but am now forewarned. Goodie, another pre cruise purchase before our 5 week trek up the Suez and down to Italy and Greece. It makes sense. Thanks for being so informative.