We hope you love our recommendations! Some may have been sent as samples, but all were independently selected by our editors. Just FYI, BuzzFeed and its publishing partners may collect a share of sales and/or other compensation from the links on this page.
1. An on-the-go Gillette razor that'll spare you some precious space in your bag without sacrificing quality.
It comes with one handle and one blade refill!
Promising review: "I bought these for a cruise last year. Cruise ship bathrooms are notoriously tiny, in the shower especially. Having a very short, comfortable handle made it extremely easy to shave in very tight quarters. The five blades made for a very close and smooth shave on my legs. All the better for island hopping! Seriously, I can honestly say that these are the best razors to do the job beautifully and comfortably that I've purchased in many, many years... Added bonus: ANY Venus razor can be mixed and/or matched with ANY Venus handle. So Experiment. Get your own Awesome combo... I've reordered three times and counting!" —CruisinTrkrs
Get it from Amazon for $9.99.
2. A set of Sea Bands with a little nub that targets the acupuncture point on your wrists meant to help reduce nausea. This'll be great in case anyone gets motion sick in the car or on a boatride.
Read more about acupressure and nausea at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center.
Promising review: "I returned from an eight-day cruise. These bands worked so well and were so comfortable that I forgot I was wearing them. I’m a person who can’t ride in a car as a passenger without getting sick, and to be on the water eight days no sickness, I will keep a pair with me at all times!" —Amazon Customer
Get a set of two from Amazon for $8.51.
3. A pack of individually-wrapped ginger drops to stop nausea and seasickness in its tracks — without the doziness you might get from other remedies.
Tummydrops are a small biz.
I packed these drops a few years ago on a trip to Greece that entailed riding on two catamarans and three ferries. They turned out to work *quite well* given that I woke up the morning I was to get on a four-hour ferry ride at 2 p.m. with some serious nausea that I think is because I ate SO MUCH FETA CHEESE at dinner the night before. Truly too much of a good thing! I guzzled Sprite and loaded up on bread at lunch, and then sucked on three of these drops during the ferry ride and started to feel much better! I used them on several boat trips, including a catamaran ride where I thought I was gonna meet my maker the first 20 minutes due to rocky waters. ("Book a sailboat instead!" they said. "Catamaran or nothing!" we said.) And other people on the trip used the drops to help quell their tummy troubles too!
Promising review: "Ginger tummy drops were a real lifesaver. I’d read that ginger tummy drops were a good natural remedy for motion sickness. I took them on my recent vacation, and they didn’t disappoint. Car, air, cruise ship, speedboat, catamaran, tested. I highly recommend." —marcie jallali
Get a bag of 33 individually wrapped drops from Amazon for $13.89.
4. An aromatherapy anti-nausea inhaler you can easily slip into your pocket or bag for when your stomach is feeling a little iffy.
Basic Vigor is a small biz. Read more about aromatherapy and stress and tension at Johns Hopkins.
Promising review: "We purchased these for our honeymoon cruise, and they saved us on so many days! Whether we had a headache or were feeling a little queasy from the boat, keeping this little guy in my purse was a pro tip I will be telling all future cruisers. Plus, it smells amazing." —Madison
Get two from Amazon for $11.99.
5. A fanny pack with a ton of storage room inside that has a long enough strap to wear crossbody *or* comfortably fit over outerwear for some hands-free adventures. And in case it looks familiar, TikTokers compare it to the Lulu waist bag. Plus, it's cute enough to wear for fashion and you can pack one fewer bag as a result.
I wear a size L/XL in clothing and sometimes waist bags just don't work out so well for me. With this one, I can confirm that it fit around my waist comfortably without outerwear, across my chest without outerwear, *and* over a thick coat and several layers. The pockets inside are so handy and I even had room to spare throughout my Iceland trip. This was the only purse I brought for the whole trip and it performed its job flawlessly. Just make sure that you zip the zipper ALL the way because the zipper goes down pretty far on the sides for easier access to contents. Having my hands free was wildly convenient for a number of reasons, including crawling around inside of an ice cave and putting out my hands for some extra balance while walking on sheets of ice along cliffs. Oh, and it comes in so so SO many colors.
Promising review: "My wife got this for our cruise but she loves it for every day as well. It's the perfect size, fits a ton without looking overstuffed, and super comfy." —Levi J.
Get it from Amazon for $13.98 (available in 43 styles).
6. A pair of lanyard ID holders with waterproof, detachable pouches so you can easily pay for stuff onboard or slip your badge into your pocket in case the nautical look doesn't jibe with your formal dinner attire.
Promising review: "Does the job you would want it to do. It also detaches if you need to hand your card to a waiter/waitress which is very convenient. The lanyard is a very comfortable material too." —Amazon Customer
Get them from Amazon for $10.99 (available in 15 designs).
7. A cruise-approved power strip that's non-surge AND has USB-C, USB, and three standard outlet plugs that'll charge up all your devices you could possibly need on the ship or during excursions. Cabin with one outlet? NBD.
Promising review: "Necessary product for comfortable cruise! Only one outlet in the ship cabin, was very useful." —Keith D Bolling
Get it from Amazon for $17.99.
8. Some Royal Caribbean–specific luggage tag holders to help protect and keep your luggage tags dry as your suitcases travel with you.
Promising review: "I bought these for our recent cruise after seeing a recommendation. I’m glad we did. I felt much more comfortable about our bags making it to our cabin using these protectors (a co-worker recently had her bags not show up, possibly because her paper tags got ripped off in transit). I like that they come with metal cables to attach to my bags and the plastic covers are very solid with metal rings that won’t rip." —Richard Woolf
Get four from Amazon for $12.99.
9. Tide sink packets with the perfect amount of detergent for a sink wash to help lighten your clothing load. Plus! These'll easily slide into the toiletries bag that you thought had no. more. room.
Each pack comes with three packets. And, because they *are* liquid, they'll easily slide into the side of your toiletries bag. I've packed these on international trips to much success!
Promising review: "Perfect for carry on (best way to travel) and can have the comfort of clean clothes as often as you like. Went on a two-week cruise with only a carry on and it was PERFECT. I washed a few garments every night and ALWAYS had clean clothes. I would spray with Downy Wrinkle Releaser and was ready to go." —LBerroa
Get nine packs from Amazon for $6.95.
10. An *very popular* off-the-shoulder jumpsuit suited for just about any sightseeing needs. But it'd also make an incredibly comfy flight outfit so you'll get many wears out of it on one trip.
FYI, if you have Amazon Prime, you can give this a spin before you buy it!
Promising reviews: "Purchased this jumpsuit for a cruise. It is amazingly comfortable and fits perfectly. Normally I need to hem or alter the length but this was perfect due to the type of bottom. It could be dressed up with jewelry and a large belt. I liked the black one so much I ordered same in a maroon color." —Amazon Customer
Get it from Amazon for $25.97+ (available in sizes S–3X and 32 colors/patterns).
11. Pedialyte powder packets because there's nothing like a day spent exploring instead of worrying about hydrating yourself to completely wear you out on your bucket-list vacation. And idk about you, but I have a harder time reminding myself to drink water when I'm not at home. These efficiently help keep me hydrated and going when I travel. And they're much tastier than electrolyte tablets you dilute in water.
~Trust me~ when I tell you that these will work in a pinch. I bought them a few years ago to take on a bachelorette party to New Orleans, and everyone in the Airbnb was grateful I did. Since then, I always pack them on a vacation whether it's a go-go-go adventure or just sitting on a beach and downing some tropical drinks. On recent trips I've taken to drinking one in the morning when I wake up and one before I go to bed...that is if I can remember to do it. I swear by these and think they're why I'm able to do some marathon adventuring and just be normal tired after (and not dehydrated tired).
Promising review: "Necessary for cruising! Took these on a wedding cruise to Mexico. Between being active physically in the heat and drinking a ton of alcohol, these were perfect and so helpful to prevent dehydration and hangovers! #adulting" —Angelee Gens
Get a 24-count from Amazon for $25.59.
12. Or a set of Liquid I.V. Hydration Multiplier packets, an electrolyte drink mix infused with potassium and vitamin C you can stir into a bottle of water to help speed up your hydration. After all, on vacation you aren't so good at drinking water. So this is a great preventative measure. (I also personally love these for travel and hangovers, and hangovers while you're traveling.)
Psst — it's also gluten-free, soy-free, and dairy-free!
Promising review: "This stuff seriously works. Took on a five-day cruise when we had the unlimited drink package, and these Liquid I.V.s saved my life several times. Wouldn’t have made it to dinner/gotten off the ship the next morning without them." —Laura Bales
Get a pack of 16 for $23.45 (also available in sugar-free flavors).
13. A waterproof pouch that I buy for every water-adjacent vacation (so mostly warm-weather trips like Croatia and Greece). But! As soon as I booked my flight for Iceland, I bought one of these to take along to The Blue Lagoon. It survived rain, hail, and all kinds of steam rising off the water. Suffice to say, it'll work GREAT for cruising.
It fits any phone up to 100 mm x 170 mm (or about 3.9 inches x 6.7 inches). It also keeps out sand, dirt, and rain.
With these, I find that they're good for about a day due to condensation. So for a trip I'll buy 2–3, except for this one where I just knew I'd be in the water at The Blue Lagoon. And while I'm on the subject, check out a TikTok I made using the phone case! On the day I went, we had to duck and run inside because of rain. And it was hailing on us when I was in the water, so I head to face a certain way to keep from getting pelted in the face. But, when in Rome! Then we went inside and at lunch at the Lava Restaurant and it was GORGEOUS and clear outside post-lunch. So this case worked well taking pics in both bad and good conditions (as you can see from the two pics for comparison). I've used this case to take underwater pics, on boat rides, and have worn it with the lanyard jumping off a boat into water. So I really trust these!
Promising review: "Bought this to carry around my phone on a recent cruise for water-related activities. Although I never did get it completely submerged, it did get splashed on and I felt comfortable that my phone was protected. I also took a bunch of pictures from the camera while the phone was inside, and they came out just fine! You couldn't even tell it was inside the case!" —Midster158
Get it from Amazon for $6.99+ (available in 14 colors).
14. An anti-theft neck wallet that's also RFID-blocking so you can more easily navigate your ship excursions without having to keep your hands hovering over your pockets the entire time. Pickpockets exist and you've gotta be aware of 'em, but let's focus on taking in the sights.
15. Some motion-sickness patches seem to work better for a slew of reviewers than other past solutions that have side effects. They're waterproof *and* effective for up to 72 hours.
Promising review: "Just got off a cruise. So thankful for these. Worked great. I’ve used the prescription patches in the past and had the side effects of dry mouth and enlarged pupils. No side effects at all. Couldn’t even tell I was using them other than no illness from rough seas. Will definitely never go anywhere without these again. Ended up sharing with other passengers." —Jacqueline Stobbs
Get a 16-pack from Amazon for $5.99.
16. Anti–motion sickness earplugs made for both adults and kids that reviewers say are more comfortable to sleep in than other motion-sickness blockers.
Promising review: "I get motion sickness very easily. I wear an electric pulse band, which is great but at night it makes it hard to sleep. I decided to use the earplugs at night and it seemed to really help. They were comfortable and I could sleep with them in without issue. I still had some motion issues, but our cabin was right at the front of the ship. Don't do that!" —S. Beck
Get them from Amazon for $17.99.
17. A portable handheld fan for those moments when the breeze takes a break. Oh, and it's also a power bank *and* flashlight. So you'll be sure to find all sorts of other uses for it.
Check out a TikTok of the portable fan in action.
Promising review: "Bought this for myself to have during a cruise, and boy did it come in handy! I could have sold it many times while waiting in line to board ship! Ended up buying three more as gifts!" —Mrs. RRR
Get it from Amazon for $17.99+ (available in four colors).
18. A stick of Gold Bond Friction Defense can stop chafing caused by sweat before it even starts. It's sooo good and better than any other competitor in the thigh-saving category. Toss this in your bag and apply before you go on that long, lovely beach stroll.
My former colleague Ciera Velarde is a huge fan! Here's what she has to say:
"I've used it for about 12 years now and it's the only thing that I can trust to prevent that dreaded chafing after a sweaty day of walking around. It glides on perfectly, it's unscented, and it doesn't melt away when you start to sweat. If it's a particularly hot day out, it can start to fade after a few hours, so just make sure to bring it with you to reapply. In addition to preventing chafing between my thighs, I've also applied it on my arms where my sports bra rubs against them when I run and it works like a charm!"
Promising review: "Used this on our cruise, for all the walking in hot, humid places. Literally saved my thighs from 'chub rub.'" —Traci Carpenter
Get it from Amazon for $6.28.
19. A Burt's Bees sunburn soother because sometimes the family WILL get burnt from some fun in the sun — even if you've been on VERY strict sunscreen patrol. Its aloe vera and coconut oil formula is super gentle on skin while helping relieve pain, redness, and swelling.
Promising review: "I was so super skeptical about this product. I am not a frequent user of this brand either. I read some good reviews so I went ahead and bought it ahead of a family cruise. I am so glad I did. I burnt my own shoulders and forehead on day one. When I made it back to my room, I could feel the pain setting in. I immediately applied this. Within a few hours, I could feel relief. I did apply it several times over the course of my vacation. I would recommend this product to anyone, and I will keep it in stock. Better than aloe gel." —Laura
Get it from Amazon for $17.08.
20. A portable safe for securing to a pool chair to keep your valuables safe or to keep your passport in your cabin in case there's no safe or the safe isn't working.
After putting this in MANY travel stories, I bought one for myself for a summer European vacation where I found myself at several beach clubs. It was perfect for keeping mine and my friend's belongings safe while we dozed in our beach chairs or swam in the sea. Plus, it's the perfect size to hold phones or wallets, and easily carry in your beach or tote bag. It's come in clutch in a few hotels and Airbnbs that didn't have working safes.
Promising review: "Loveeeee this safe! Took it on a cruise, and it was such a great feeling of security. I put all my cash and docs in it while around and off the ship in the larger room safe. In my case, I had a roommate I did not know prior to sailing. With this, I didn’t have to worry about a thing. Easy to lock and unlock. Easy to secure around things. I just love it! I will be using it with other things at home/work as well." —Cara Sievers
Get it from Amazon for $23.98.
21. A pair of quick-dry water shoes to help you traverse nearly every kind of ground you may come upon — whether it's while zip lining, walking along a rocky beach, or just walking around the ship deck.
Promising review: "Purchased three pairs for our cruise. We all loved them. Best water shoes I’ve ever worn. Feels like you are barefoot but keeps your feet safe from anything you step on. Very comfortable! Highly recommended!" —Donna M
Get it from Amazon for $6.26+ (available in seven sizes and 44 colors).
22. A set of DEET-free handy mosquito-repelling bracelets in case the thought of putting something else on your skin besides SPF (like smelly bug repellent) sounds like a total nightmare.
Cliganic is a small biz specializing in health and wellness products. Check out a TikTok of the mosquito-repelling bracelets in action.
Promising review: "I bought this to take on a cruise. Never had issues with bites. Once back home I put them on my son who is allergic to some bites and always itchy after time outdoors. Since he’s had these on outside it’s hardly an issue anymore. Very cool." —MardiGrasGirl
Get a 10-pack from Amazon for $9.99.
23. A chic tank and wide-leg pants set that'll make you look like a fancy jet setter while you're on a personal mission to try every single kind of cocktail on your all-inclusive cruise.
24. A packable floppy hat with a wide brim that'll provide some extra shade from those harsh rays on deck and also on excursions.
Promising review: "Packed this into a suitcase, and it came out great. Used it a lot on shore excursions off the cruise ship. Needed it as the sun was intense. Well made, good looking. Brim not outrageously large." —Deborah Baker
Get it from Amazon for $25.99+ (available in sizes M–XL and in eight colors).
25. A CarryAround foldable cup holder you'll think you're a dang genius for buying (and you'd be right) after you easily carry back four beers from the snack bar in one hand. It'd also be smart to pack this for your next all-inclusive vacation.
Check out a TikTok of the drink holder in action.
Promising review: "I bought this to use on a cruise. I had such an easy time carrying my drinks around. So many people asked where I purchased it from." —Jasmine
Get it from Amazon for $9.99 (available in multipacks).
26. A wide-mouth water bottle that'll pack flat *or* roll up super small when empty. Reviewers say it worked well for water-filling stations on board cruises.
Promising review: "I’m not one to write many reviews, but this one is one I decided was worth it. I purchased two of these for a cruise. They were great packing because they lay flat and take up hardly any space. I have purchased the silicon travel bottles, but they have a funky taste/smell to them, so I don’t really care for them. These were so much better!! I was able to easily clip them to my purse strap while we were in ports, and it was still lightweight enough! I highly recommend!" —JDeal
Get it from Amazon for $8.78+ (available in 21 colors).
27. A Hairbrella that'll easily fold up and be ready for those days when you look like you have GREAT weather. Then, all of a sudden the sky opens up and starts pouring, ruining your perfect hair day.
Hairbrella is a Black-owned small business that has been creating fashionable hats that protect hair from all kinds of weather since 2016.
Promising review: "My mom wore hers to Niagara Falls and sent me a ton of pictures. It's moisture-proof exterior was perfect for her sightseeing cruise!" —Amazon Customer
"Would definitely buy again. It worked wonderfully." —Latrice B.
Get it from Amazon for $39+ (available in ten colors).
Reviews have been edited for length and/or clarity.