10 Cruise Cabin Tips You May Not Know About Your Room

No matter how many cruises you’ve taken, there’s always something new to learn about your stateroom. From magnetic walls to hidden storage spots, cruise cabins are designed to make the most of limited space — and knowing a few insider tricks can make your stay far more comfortable and organized.

Here are ten helpful cabin tips every cruiser should know before setting sail.

1. Cabin Walls and Doors Are Magnetic — But Not the Showers

Most cruise cabins are built with steel walls and doors, which means magnets can stick to them. This simple fact opens up a world of organization possibilities. Magnetic hooks are perfect for hanging jackets, hats, or bags, while smaller magnets can hold daily programs, excursion tickets, or reminders.

Choose heavy-duty magnetic hooks (rated for at least 10 pounds) for the best results. However, keep in mind that the shower area usually isn’t magnetic — for that space, suction cups work better for holding small organizers or toiletry holders.

2. Cruise Ship Bathrooms Often Lack Ventilation

If your bathroom doesn’t have a fan, don’t panic — it’s normal. Air circulation can be limited in smaller cabins, so it helps to bring a travel-friendly air freshener or a few drops of essential oil to keep things smelling pleasant.

Avoid anything that requires a flame, such as candles or incense, since these are prohibited onboard. Plug-in diffusers may also be restricted and aren’t always practical given the limited number of outlets.

3. Store Items Under the Bed for Extra Space

Most modern cruise cabins have raised beds, leaving enough room underneath to store luggage and other bulky items. This is a great way to keep your cabin clutter-free.

Pack items like shoes, jackets, or snorkeling gear inside your suitcase and slide it under the bed after unpacking your essentials. Just make sure your cabin steward can still access linens or storage containers that may also be kept there.

4. Beds (and Sometimes Nightstands) Can Be Rearranged

Cabin beds are typically two twin beds that can be pushed together to form a queen or separated as needed. If your preferred layout isn’t set when you arrive, just let your cabin steward know — they can adjust it quickly.

In some rooms, nightstands can also be moved slightly for easier access or extra space, but most other furniture is fixed in place.

5. Most Furniture Is Bolted Down for Safety

Aside from the beds, don’t expect to rearrange your cabin furniture. Tables, chairs, and dressers are often secured to the floor or walls to prevent shifting during rough seas.

Even if an item looks light, it’s usually weighted or built-in for safety — and to prevent guests from moving furniture onto balconies or hallways. Keeping items where they belong helps maintain both balance and order in your stateroom.

6. Keep Balcony Doors Closed to Avoid Wind Tunnels

If you have a balcony cabin, resist the temptation to leave both the balcony and main cabin doors open at the same time. Doing so can create a strong wind tunnel that might send papers and lightweight items flying across the room.

Store important documents, receipts, or excursion tickets inside a folder or travel pouch to keep them safe and organized.

7. Tap Water Onboard Is Safe to Drink

Cruise ship water systems undergo extensive filtration and testing, making the tap water in your cabin perfectly safe to drink. Whether you’re filling a glass in your room or a bottle at the buffet, it’s the same purified supply.

Bringing a reusable water bottle is a smart, eco-friendly way to stay hydrated and reduce plastic waste during your voyage.

8. Some Cabins Offer Unique Perks at No Extra Cost

Not all the best cabins come with a higher price tag. Some corner or aft balcony cabins have larger wraparound balconies for the same fare as standard ones. Similarly, certain forward-facing ocean view rooms offer expansive layouts and spectacular views without being in premium categories.

When booking, check the ship’s deck plan — a little research might score you extra space or a better view for the same cost.

9. Use the TV’s Bridge Cam to Simulate a Window in Inside Cabins

If you’re staying in an inside cabin without a window, you can still enjoy a view. Most ships have a bridge camera channel on the in-room TV that streams live footage from the ship’s front deck.

Keeping it on during the day can help you feel more connected to the outside world, and if you leave it on overnight, the sunrise can gently brighten your room in the morning.

10. Ask Your Cabin Steward for Extra Amenities

Cabin stewards are there to make your stay more comfortable — and they can usually provide extra items upon request. Don’t hesitate to ask for additional hangers, extra towels, bath mats, or even a mattress topper for more comfort.

If you’re not using the minibar and prefer to store personal snacks, beverages, or medications, your steward can empty the fridge for you. Likewise, if you prefer to have ice daily (or not at all), just let them know your preference early in the cruise.