Julie, I am so excited to welcome you back to planDisney, and this time to say, "Welcome Aboard!" There is nothing like a
Disney Cruise Line vacation. I'll be up late tonight to book
Port Adventures. Next up: My packing list. Your countdown is just a bit ahead of mine, and I couldn't be happier to share in your excitement!
On my first cruise, I assumed the space would feel tight. It's what I had heard about cruises in general. This is not true for Disney Cruise Line staterooms. The space is economical but designed so brilliantly. Staterooms have closets with a mixture of space for hanging clothes and shelves. Some staterooms also have drawers. And some even have an ottoman that opens like a chest for more storage hidden in plain sight. The beds are high enough to store your luggage under them, freeing up floor and closet space.
Here are a few of my favorite tips:
- Use packing cubes. They are really easy to unzip and put in the drawers. If you run out of drawers or don't have any, they can help you organize your clothes on the storage shelves.
- Disposable plastic bags can help with planning and packing. When my kids were younger, I packed a zipper plastic bag with an outfit for each day so they could get ready in a flash. I could push all the air out for super compact packing, and I saved the bags for wet swimsuits and cover-ups going home.
- Bring a carry-on bag. After leaving your large luggage at the port to be brought on board, you will need it for all your essentials (like travel documentation, phone, and sunscreen). You will also need it on the sad morning when your cruise is over to stash your pajamas and toothbrush to disembark.
- Pack magnetic hooks. The walls are metal, and you can buy hooks that "stick" to hang towels and swimsuits. The first time I did this, my hooks were a little too lightweight. I bought medium-sized hooks that hold about 30 or 40 pounds, and they are perfect!
- Don't forget your MagicBand+ to use as a DisneyBand+ on board the ship. If you do not have a MagicBand+, consider buying one or a lanyard to hold your Key to the World card.
- Pack a multi-outlet USB hub. Extension cords are prohibited, but a USB hub allows you to charge multiple devices simultaneously.
- Get a door magnet. This is not only a fun tip but also functional. In a row of doors that all look the same, decorating your door adds fun and helps it stand out as yours.
- If you start to unpack and need more clothes hangers, ask your Stateroom Host. They will gladly bring you more.
Julie, I could talk for hours about all the excitement on the horizon. Like trips to Walt Disney World Resort, there is more to do than time. You will leave singing, "When can I see you again?" Be sure to check out the
future cruise offer, which you can only get while on your cruise. Check the
Disney Cruise Line Navigator app for how this can help you save on your next cruise. If you don't use it, it's refundable. Hakuna Matata!
If we can help with any other questions,
planDisney is here for you!
SEA 'Ya Real Soon!
Jana