Category Archives: Technology

Problem Solved… MagSafe Wallet for Your Ship Card!

One thing you always need when you’re on a cruise ship is your… ship card. It functions are your room key, allows you to pay for things, lets you access drink packages, lets you access reservations, acts as an ID of sorts, gets you back on the ship and more.

Beyond your ship card, while you’re walking around onboard, you may not need a whole lot more. Maybe a cell phone. So, how do you keep track of your card and the few things you may want to carry?

A Lanyard is one option and works for some people. Personally I don’t want anything extra around my neck and I’d like the ability to carry a couple more things (maybe some cash) without having to dig in the lanyard.

Another option is a Phone Card Holder. That allows you to keep your ship card right with your phone. This is a big improvement, in my book, everything in one place, compact and easy to keep track of. But, these are adhesive based and need to be semi-permanently installed on a phone or phone case. My solution up until now was to keep an extra phone case with a phone holder installed for use while cruising.

How about… a MagSafe wallet? These work with compatible iOS devices and compatible Android devices (with the help of a case). They can be easily affixed (and removed) as needed. Whammo!

Here’s a look at these MagSafe wallets for using on a cruise.

This article may contain affiliate links. We may make a small percentage if you use our links to make a purchase. You won’t pay more and you’ll be supporting Cruise Packing List and more content like this. Thank you for your support!

Check Current Price and Availability:

[2 Pack] Magnetic Card Holder Wallet for iPhone 15/14/13/12 Series with Magsafe, Leather Wallet for iPhone 15 14 Pro Max Plus Model, Mag-Safe Wallet for iPhone 13 12 Pro Max Mini Model – affiliate link, note that multiple variations of this product may be available, as such a different version may appear at this link

Shop around – search Amazon for “MagSafe Wallet”

Android user? An add on case or ring is generally required to make MagSafe Accessories work. See section on Android toward the end of this article for more information.

Search Amazon for “MagSafe Sticker for Android”
Search Amazon for “Android Compatible Case”

If you don’t have a MagSafe capable phone, consider… COCASES Phone Card Holder

A look in the package. I bought a two pack.

For size reference next to a bottle of Sun Bum sunscreen (my standard size reference item on Cruise Packing List)

Onboard Royal Caribbean’s Odyssey of the Seas

Onboard Royal Caribbean’s Adventure of the Seas

This stays on securely but comes off when you’re done using it or want easier access to contents

In action during a Royal Caribbean 70s Disco Party

Conclusions

This is a cheap fix to the question.. where should I put my cruise card? It provides a secure location to keep your card and a little bit of cash so that it’s not floating around who knows where.

Credit for the original idea (the stick on card holder) goes to Emma of Emma cruises. She came up with the original “put your card with your phone” idea. Thanks Emma! If you have a MagSafe capable phone or phone case, I think this is a great upgrade to the stick on holder.

I’ve used this on multiple cruises and it’s worked well. It’s now a must pack item for me!

Check Current Price and Availability:

If you don’t have a MagSafe capable phone, consider… COCASES Phone Card Holder

Does MagSafe work with Android phones?

The technology the allows magnetic accessories to work is Qi wireless charging. Newer iPhone and Android phones often times have this technology built in. MagSafe is a registered Apple trademark. As such you’re probably not going to see an Android marketed as having MagSafe.

The Android implementation of Qi wireless charging is a little bit different than iPhone. The result is that the magnet can be weaker. A solution to this is to get a MagSafe compatible ring sticker or case. This helps to increase magnetic strength.

Search Amazon for “MagSafe Sticker for Android”
Search Amazon for “Android Compatible Case”

See: How to Add MagSafe to Android for some more information

MagSafe capable iPhones do not need these add ons.

This post may contain affiliate links. We may make a commission when you use our links. This will never cost you extra. Thank you for supporting Cruise Packing List!

Related: Using Your Cell Phone Onboard with WiFi Calling!

My iPhone with Royal Caribbean Adventure of the Seas Royal Promenade int eh Background. See “VZW Wi-Fi”

Related: FREE… Royal Caribbean Perfect Day at CocoCay Phone Wallpaper

Related: Setting up a WiFi Hotspot on your Next Cruise!

Setting Up Your Own Wireless WiFi Hotspot on Your Next Cruise!

Related: Hands on Review: Airalo e-SIM – use your phone internationally!

Hands on Review: Airalo e-SIM – use your phone internationally!

All information provided is deemed accurate at time of publishing, but is not guaranteed and should be independently verified. top:magsafe tag:tpru

How to Use WiFi Calling on a Cruise Ship (Avoid Roaming Charges)

wifi calling and cruise ships My iPhone with Royal Caribbean Adventure of the Seas Royal Promenade in the Background. See “VZW Wi-Fi”

WiFi Calling on a Cruise Ship: How to Stay Connected Without Roaming Fees

Using your phone on a cruise ship used to mean sky-high roaming bills or painfully limited communication. Today, WiFi calling makes it possible to place regular calls and send text messages over the ship’s internet — often at little or no extra cost beyond your WiFi package. With the right setup, your phone behaves as if it’s connected to a tower back home, letting you stay in touch with family without the shock of cruise cellular charges. This guide explains exactly how WiFi calling on a cruise ship works and how to set it up before you sail.

In This Post

Onboard Cruise Ship Cellular
Using Cruise Line Cellular
Voice and Data
Using Texts To Communicate While Onboard
Use Airplane Mode
Full Phone Functionality with Wireless Internet… WiFi Calling!
Enabling WiFi Calling
More About WiFi Calling from Carriers
Important: Test WiFi Calling Before Leaving Home
Does WiFi Calling Cost Extra?
FAQ: WiFi Calling on a Cruise Ship

Thinking back to our first cruises communicating back home was… brutal.

We had young children and really needed to check in on a regular basis. Options were slim and expensive. Onboard calling was out of the question financially. Onboard internet was horribly slow and expensive, albeit not as bad as ship to shore calls. We did, periodically, race the clock and try to get an email through. Typically we would try to call back home from port. We’d find an internet café or a business offering international calls by the minute and give it a go.

Times have gotten a lot better. Ship internet is much, much, much better and generally reasonably priced. This makes it easier than ever to stay connected when you need to.

Onboard Cruise Ship Cellular

Most larger cruise ships have cellular capabilities. Ships have the equivalent of their own cell phone towers that provide service to people onboard and nearby. This is separate and different from Wi-Fi.

These towers are international no matter where the ship is. If you look on your cell phone carriers website for international coverage, many times cruise ships will be listed by names and show up alongside foreign countries.

Using Cruise Line Cellular

Using cruise line cellular for voice and data can be VERY expensive. Check with your carrier to be sure, but generally, it’s super expensive to use your cell phone (via cellular) on a cruise ship.

I know of no carrier that includes cruise ships in their international plans or international day plans. Example, Verizon’s TravelPass gets you unlimited international coverage in select countries for as little as $10 per day. That’s not available for cruise ships.

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Voice and Data

Because of cost, I recommend against using cruise line for voice and data. It’s just too expensive. An internet package with Wi-Fi calling is much more cost effective. SMS messages are a potential exception to this recommendation. Keep reading for more on that.

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Using Texts To Communicate While Onboard

While data and voice rates on cruise ships is generally very expensive, SMS messages are generally much more economical. If you’re looking for a way to communicate while onboard, this is an option. Check with your cellular provider to see how much text messages will cost.

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Related: One of my Must-Pack Items for Every Cruise!

LiFiYiRc European Type C Mult Port Charging Block PD20W – Hands on Review

Use Airplane Mode

If you choose to use cruise line cellular for voice and SMS. My recommendation is to ALWAYS turn data roaming off while onboard. Or better yet, use airplane mode.

I use airplane mode while on board and turn WiFI on. This allows me to access the Internet (with a package) and not worry about getting data roaming charges.

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This post may contain affiliate links. We may make a commission when you use our links. This will never cost you extra. Thank you for supporting Cruise Packing List!

Full Phone Functionality with Wireless Internet… WiFi Calling!

If you purchase an Internet plan you can use many of the features of your phone like web browsing, social media, video and audio calling (Facetime, Skype, Snapchat, Facebook Messenger, etc).

There are some activities that don’t work with an Internet only connection – standard voice calls and SMS messages (iMessages do work because they rely on Internet).

You can make standard voice calls and SMS work without a cellular connection by enabling WiFi Calling

With a compatible phone and an internet connection WiFi calling makes your phone think that it has a cell tower. This allows you to place voice calls and send text messages as if you had a regular tower,

I use this and it works REALLY well. I turn airplane mode on and connect to WiFi. Quality is at the mercy of the ship’s internet but in general it has worked great for me.

Again, it’s important to have data roaming turned off. I turn my phone to airplane mode, turn on and connect to WiFi and the phone activates WiFi calling.

Warning: If WiFi calling is not configured correctly, your phone may fall back to cruise ship cellular service, which can be extremely expensive. Double-check airplane mode, roaming settings, and WiFi connection before placing calls or sending texts.

My iPhone with stateroom balcony in the background. See the “VZW Wi-Fi” on the top of the screen along with the airplane icon. This says A. my phone is in airplane mode and B. It’s using Verizon WiFi calling. The phone behaves as if it was connected to a tower back home!

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Enabling WiFi Calling

Make a call with Wi-Fi Calling – for iPhone via Apple
Make calls over Wi-Fi – for Android via Google

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More About WiFi Calling from Carriers

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Important: Test WiFi Calling Before Leaving Home

One thing to note is that you should activate and test this before you leave home. At least with Verizon, we were unable to activate it with only a WiFi connection. Maybe that’s changed, but it’s best to test it ahead of time anyway.

A way to test this is to activate WiFi calling, turn on airplane mode and connect to WiFi. Try placing a regular call. If the call goes through, WiFi calling is working.

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Does WiFi Calling Cost Extra?

Generally speaking WiFi calling is free or counted the same as domestic minutes. But, check with your cell phone carrier to double check availability and pricing.

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Important: Cellular and WiFi calling policies vary by carrier and cruise line. Charges can occur if your phone connects to onboard cellular instead of WiFi. Always verify settings and pricing with your provider before sailing. This guide is informational only and you are responsible for any charges incurred.

FAQ: WiFi Calling on a Cruise Ship

Can I use WiFi calling on a cruise ship?

Yes. If your phone supports WiFi calling and you purchase a ship internet package, you can place regular calls and send texts over WiFi instead of using expensive onboard cellular.

Do I need a cruise internet package for WiFi calling?

Yes. WiFi calling works through the ship’s internet connection, so you must have an active internet plan.

Is WiFi calling free on a cruise?

WiFi calling is usually treated like a normal domestic call by your carrier, but you still pay for the ship’s internet package. Always verify pricing with your provider.

Will I get charged roaming fees if I use WiFi calling?

Not if your phone stays in airplane mode and connected to WiFi. If it switches to onboard cellular service, roaming charges can apply.

Should I keep my phone in airplane mode on a cruise?

Yes. Airplane mode prevents accidental cellular connections to the ship’s network. You can then manually turn WiFi back on for internet access.

Can I send normal text messages with WiFi calling?

Yes. WiFi calling allows standard SMS and voice calls to function over internet instead of cellular, assuming it’s configured correctly.

Does WiFi calling work on all cruise lines?

It generally works anywhere the ship’s internet is stable enough. Performance depends on the quality of the onboard WiFi connection.

Does WiFi calling drain battery faster?

It can use slightly more battery than idle cellular mode, but airplane mode actually saves power overall since radios are limited to WiFi.

Do I need to activate WiFi calling before my cruise?

Yes. You should enable and test WiFi calling at home before sailing. Some carriers require initial activation while connected to a cellular network.

What happens if WiFi calling disconnects?

Your phone may try to reconnect to cellular service. That’s why airplane mode is critical — it prevents fallback to expensive cruise ship roaming.

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Related: Setting Up Your Own Wireless WiFi Hotspot on Your Next Cruise!

Information is believed accurate at time of publishing but may change. Carrier pricing, cruise policies, and device behavior vary. Readers should independently verify all settings and costs. We are not responsible for roaming or service charges incurred. 5.24.23 top:wificalling tag:tpru

DEAL! GL.iNet GL-MT3000 Beryl AX Travel Router – on sale for $84 + Hands on Review!

GL.iNet GL-MT3000 (Beryl AX) Travel Router

More Info

From the product description, check product page for current description, price and availability:

【DUAL BAND AX TRAVEL ROUTER】Products with US, UK, EU Plug; Dual band network with wireless speed 574Mbps (2.4G)+2402Mbps (5G); Tethering Compatible; 2.5G Multi-gigabit WAN port and a 1G gigabit LAN port; USB 3.0 port; Wi-Fi 6 offers more than double the total Wi-Fi speed with the MT3000 VPN Router.
【VPN CLIENT & SERVER】OpenVPN and WireGuard are pre-installed, compatible with 30+ VPN service providers. Simply log in to your existing VPN account with our portable wifi device, and Beryl AX automatically encrypts all network traffic within the connected network. Max. VPN speed of 150 Mbps (OpenVPN); 300 Mbps (WireGuard)
【OpenWrt 21.02 FIRMWARE】The Beryl AX is a portable wifi box and mini router that runs on OpenWrt 21.02 firmware. It supports more than 5,000 ready-made plug-ins for customization. Simply browse, install, and manage packages with our no-code interface within Beryl AX’s Admin Panel.
【PROTECT YOUR NETWORK SECURITY】Our pocket wifi, unlike other vulnerable portable wifi hotspot for travel purposes supports WPA3 protocol–Preventive measures against password brute-force attacks; DNS over HTTPS & DNS over TLS–Protecting domain name system traffic and preventing data eavesdropping from malicious parties; IPv6–Built-in authentication for privacy protection, eliminating the need for network address translation.
【VPN CASCADING AT EASE】Surpassing the mediocre performance of most VPN routers for home usage, the Beryl AX is capable of hosting a VPN server and VPN client at the same time within the same device, enabling users to remote access local network resources like Wi-Fi printers or local web servers, and accessing the public internet as a VPN client simultaneously.
【PERFECT PORTABLE WIFI ROUTER FOR TRAVEL】The Beryl AX is an ideal pocket Wi-Fi device perfect for international travel. With its compact size and travel-friendly features, the portable Wi-Fi router is the perfect companion for travelers in need of a secure internet connectivity on the go.

What are Other’s Saying? Search this product’s Amazon reviews for “cruise” – may include reviews for other sizes or variations

For the security conscious, this is designed to work with VPN services like NordVPN and others

2/12 2:30 PM Central: This great router is on sale for $84.14. Prices, promotions and availability can change quickly. Check product page for current info and availability.

GL.iNet GL-MT3000 (Beryl AX) Pocket-Sized Wi-Fi 6 Wireless Travel Gigabit Router | WiFi Router | OpenVPN, Wireguard, Connect to Public & Hotel Wi-Fi login Page – affiliate link, note that multiple variations of this product may be available, as such a different version may appear at this link

For lots more about what you should pack for your next cruise check out our complete packing list.

More About Travel Routers:

Travel routers are generally small devices that allow you to create a small Wi-Fi network.

The problem with traditional Wi-Fi routers is that they don’t know how to handle “captive networks”. Captive networks are networks that require you to log in before you can access the internet. Many publicly available WiFi networks are considered captive networks. That includes most hotels and cruise ships.

Travel routers are (or at least should be) designed to handle captive networks. You basically log in to the router through a web browser and then log into the captive network using the router’s settings.

Setting Up Your Own Wireless WiFi Hotspot on Your Next Cruise!

Setting Up Your Own Wireless WiFi Hotspot on Your Next Cruise!

Related: Using Your Cell Phone Onboard with WiFi Calling!

wifi calling and cruise ships My iPhone with Royal Caribbean Adventure of the Seas Royal Promenade int eh Background. See “VZW Wi-Fi”

Related: Use the 220 Outlet on Your Next Cruise

Will My Phone Work on a Cruise Ship?

All About Night Lights for Your Next Cruise!

All information provided is deemed accurate at time of publishing, but is not guaranteed and should be independently verified.

This post may contain affiliate links. We may make a commission when you use our links. This will never cost you extra. Thank you for supporting Cruise Packing List!

Royal Caribbean Cruisers… A BORING adapter for your that shouldn’t get confiscated – Use the 220 Outlet on Your Next Cruise

I’ve been a big proponent of using the 220 outlet in your cruise cabin. They’re cheap and small and magically give you access to another outlet that you wouldn’t have otherwise been able to use. Note that these are not voltage converters. Many electronics are designed to operate in the 220 volt range.

For lots more about this see: Cruise Ship Power Solutions – Making Use of the 220 Volt Cabin Outlet On Your Next Cruise

There are lots of cool options available that get you a North American style outlet (or multiple outlets) along with USB ports.

A couple examples…

European Travel Plug Adapter, TESSAN International Power Plug with 2 USB, Type C Outlet Adaptor Charger for US to Most of Europe EU Iceland Spain Italy France Germany – affiliate link, note that multiple variations of this product may be available, as such a different version may appear at this link
Two Outlet Version: European Travel Plug Adapter Converter | TESSAN International Power Plug Converter with 2 USB | Type C Outlet Adaptor Charger | for US to Most of Europe EU Iceland Spain Italy France Germany

See my review of both of those for more information.

The problem for Royal Caribbean Cruisers… Recently Royal announced that multi-plug adapters are banned.

My current understanding of that rule is that multi-USB charging blocks are allowed. But anything that has an AC outlet on it must have only an AC outlet and nothing else.

As far as compliant European converters, those are kind of hard to find since many of them include multiple outlets and most of the times include one or more USB ports. After all… why not do that?

Anyway, I have found an adapter that should work with Royal’s new rules. It is and European to C to single North American style outlet with no USB ports.

What are Other’s Saying? Search this product’s Amazon reviews for “cruise” – may include reviews for other sizes or variations

4 Pack European Travel Plug Adapter, Unidapt US to Europe Adapter Type C Outlet Converter America USA Italy Spain Germany France EU, Power Plug – affiliate link, note that multiple variations of this product may be available, as such a different version may appear at this link

Another really good option for this outlet is a multi port USB charger. A lot of the items were charging are USB anyway. Since this model has no AC outlet it should be compliant with Royal’s rules.

European USB C Charger Block, PD20W QC3.0 Fast Charging Multi Ports – affiliate link, note that multiple variations of this product may be available, as such a different version may appear at this link

For lots more about what you should pack for your next cruise check out our complete packing list.

Cruise Ship Power Solutions – Making Use of the 220 Volt Cabin Outlet On Your Next Cruise

This post may contain affiliate links. We may make a commission when you use our links. This will never cost you extra. Thank you for supporting Cruise Packing List!

Setting Up Your Own Wireless WiFi Hotspot on Your Next Cruise!

But First… Read Cruise Lines Terms and Conditions

This article will walk you through options for creating your own WiFI hot spot on your next cruise. That can save you some money and make things a little easier around the cabin. You should also ask… can I do this? When you sign up or sign into your cruise line’s WiFi you will be presented with terms and conditions. I suggest reading through those to see if this is allowed or prohibited. This is going to vary by cruise line.

Next… What Are We Doing Again?

Setting up your own WiFi hot spot allows you to have your own mini network. You purchase an internet plan, setup a WiFi hot spot and then share that connection with other devices. The technologies used to do this will result in a small network that will be available in or very near your cabin. These solutions will not give you access throughout the entire ship.

Option 1: Travel Router

Travel routers are generally small devices that allow you to create a small Wi-Fi network.

This post may contain affiliate links. We may make a commission when you use our links. This will never cost you extra. Thank you for supporting Cruise Packing List!

Some Travel Router Options:

GL.iNet GL-MT3000 (Beryl AX) Pocket-Sized Wi-Fi 6 Wireless Travel Gigabit Router | WiFi Router | OpenVPN, Wireguard, Connect to Public & Hotel Wi-Fi login Page – affiliate link, note that multiple variations of this product may be available, as such a different version may appear at this link
What are Other’s Saying? Search this product’s Amazon reviews for “cruise” – may include reviews for other sizes or variations
Related: Hands on Review: GL.iNet GL-MT3000 Beryl AX Travel Router!

TP-Link AC750 Wireless Portable Nano Travel Router(TL-WR902AC) – Support Multiple Modes, WiFi Router/Hotspot/Bridge/Range Extender/Access Point/Client Modes, Dual Band WiFi, 1 USB 2.0 Port – affiliate link, note that multiple variations of this product may be available, as such a different version may appear at this link
What are Other’s Saying? Search this product’s Amazon reviews for “cruise” – may include reviews for other sizes or variations

GL.iNet GL-SFT1200 (Opal) Secure Travel WiFi Router | AC1200 Dual Band Gigabit Ethernet Wireless Internet | IPv6 USB 2.0 MU-MIMO DDR3 | 128MB Ram Repeater Bridge Access Point Mode – affiliate link, note that multiple variations of this product may be available, as such a different version may appear at this link
What are Other’s Saying? Search this product’s Amazon reviews for “cruise” – may include reviews for other sizes or variations

GL.iNet GL-MT300N-V2(Mango) Portable Mini Travel Wireless Pocket VPN WiFi Router – Access Point/Extender/WDS | OpenWrt | 2 x Ethernet Ports | OpenVPN/Wireguard VPN | USB 2.0 | 128MB RAM – affiliate link, note that multiple variations of this product may be available, as such a different version may appear at this link
What are Other’s Saying? Search this product’s Amazon reviews for “cruise” – may include reviews for other sizes or variations

There are other options available – search Amazon for “travel router” – look for something with good ratings and something that can handle captive networks. Specific mention of being compatible with hotel and cruise ship networks is also something I’d look for.

Option 2: Connectify Hot Spot

Connectify is a program that you install on your compatible Windows laptop. After it’s installed it runs in the background and shares the internet connection that your laptop is using. You handle the captive network business on your laptop browser, so Connectify doesn’t have to specifically handle that.

Set your laptop power plan to always on so the hot spot stays up and going.

Connectify Hot Spot

Other Options to Save on Internet on Your Next Cruise

Sometimes cruise lines offer free to discounted internet via their loyalty programs or in certain cabin categories.
Sharing a log in. Some cruise lines (I know this is the case for Royal Caribbean) allow you to log in and log out of devices. This allows you to use one account across multiple devices.
Get an international plan and access internet on port days.
You’re on vacation… don’t get on the internet. 🙂

What Else?

Got another great solution or tip for accessing Internet on cruises? Leave a comment and let us know.

Related: Using Your Cell Phone Onboard with WiFi Calling!

wifi calling and cruise ships My iPhone with Royal Caribbean Adventure of the Seas Royal Promenade int eh Background. See “VZW Wi-Fi”

Related: Use the 220 Outlet on Your Next Cruise

Will My Phone Work on a Cruise Ship?

All About Night Lights for Your Next Cruise!

All information provided is deemed accurate at time of publishing, but is not guaranteed and should be independently verified. top:wifiap tag:tpru

Cruise On Universal Power Adapter: Compact USB Travel Charger for Cruise Cabins & International Trips – On Sale for $17.99 w/Coupon

Cruise On Universal Power Adapter

Cruise On Universal Power Adapter is the kind of small travel item that can save you a lot of hassle once you’re on board (or in a hotel room overseas). Cabins and older hotel rooms can be light on convenient outlets, and international trips add plug-shape compatibility to the list of things that can go wrong. A compact universal adapter that also handles everyday USB charging helps you keep phones, earbuds, watches, cameras, and other essentials powered up without packing a bag of wall bricks.

✅Check Current Price & Availability →

Why This Is Handy for Cruises

Cabins can be outlet-limited: A single adapter that consolidates charging can help you keep your bedside/table setup tidy.
Like a magic extra outlet: Making use of the the Type-C European outlet that’s available in most cruise cabins is like getting a magical extra outlet.
Works beyond the ship: Great for pre- or post-cruise time in port cities (especially if you’re hopping countries). This works in 200+ countries!
One-item convenience: Instead of carrying multiple plug adapters and USB blocks, you can simplify to one compact solution.

What to Look For in a “Cruise-Friendly” Power Adapter

Cruise lines often restrict certain high-risk electrical items. In general, you’ll want a travel adapter that’s compact, dependable, and designed for charging electronics—not running high-wattage appliances. Here are the practical checkpoints:

No surge protection (often preferred for cruises): Many cruise lines prohibit surge-protected power strips. A simple adapter is usually the safer bet versus a surge strip.
USB charging built in: Lets you charge multiple small devices without stacking bulky chargers.
Solid fit: A wobbly adapter in a loose outlet is frustrating in a moving cabin.
Use-case clarity: Travel adapters change plug shape; they do not automatically convert voltage for high-wattage devices like hair dryers.
Not for Royal or Celebrity: This says cruise approved and also (as of this update) says it works on Royal. That’s outdated information. See: Royal Bans Multi-plug Adapters

Best Uses (Cruise + Beyond)

Cruise cabins: Nightstand charging station for phones, watches, and portable batteries.
International hotels: Plug compatibility + USB charging in one footprint.
Airport lounges: A compact way to claim one outlet and power multiple devices.
Work travel: Keeps your laptop bag lighter by reducing “charger sprawl.”

Tips to Avoid Common Travel Power Mistakes

This is not a converter: This is not a voltage converter. Your electronics must support 220–240V input. Many modern chargers are dual-voltage, but always check the label before plugging in.
Bring at least one backup: A small spare cable (or spare charging method) can save the day if one fails.
Label your stuff: Adapters are easy to forget in hotel rooms—especially when they’re compact.

2/5 8 AM Central: This is selling for $17.99. Apply the coupon that’s available on the product page and the price drops to $17.99 at checkout. Note that coupons may be targeted to select accounts. Prices, promotions and availability can change quickly. Check product page for current info and availability.

Cruise On Universal Travel Adapter, Cruise Approved (incl Royal Caribbean, Disney, MSC) – International Power Adapter [2 USB-C, 2 USB, AC] World Travel Plug Adapter Converter USA, Italy, Europe, Asia – affiliate link, note that multiple variations of this product may be available, as such a different version may appear at this link

For lots more about what you should pack for your next cruise check out our complete packing list.

Related:

More Info

From the product description, check product page for current description, price and availability:

✈️ WORLDWIDE COMPATIBLE – Travel to 200+ countries and be always fully charged, with our worldwide travel plug adapter. [Type C] (most common type) for Europe, including France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Iceland, Greece, Israel, parts of India. [Type G] for UK, Ireland, England, Scotland, Hongkong, Malaysia, Singapore and more; [Type I] for China, Australia, New Zealand, Argentina and more; [Type A] for USA, Caribbean, Mexico, Canada, Japan and more.
🛳️ 5+ DEVICES: This universal worldwide adapter charges 5 or more devices simultaneously at high speed through 1 AC, 2 USB-C (3A), and 2 USB-A ports (2.4A). Ideal for charging iPhone/Android phones, iPad tablets, cameras, laptop computers, smart watch and fitness tracker, power bank, handheld game console, headsets, and everything else that needs charging.
🛳️ CRUISE APPROVED – Our international plug adapter is non-surge and safe to use on any cruise ship with Royal Caribbean, Disney, MSC, Celebrity, Carnival, Princess, Norwegian, Holland America, Virgin Voyages & other major cruise lines.
🛳️ COMPACT & SAFE – This small and lightweight travel essential is made for travelers, frequent flyers, business and leisure travelers, students. It has a built-in 10A fuse, plug lock system, and is RoHS, Intertek, UKCA, CE, FCC certified.
⚠️ DOES NOT CONVERT VOLTAGE (US/Canada: 110-120V, Europe and most other countries: 220-230V). AC-powered devices such as electric toothbrush, shaver, hair iron, garment steamer, CPAP machine, etc intended to use abroad must support dual voltage (input specs must read “100-240V, 50/60Hz”).

Hands on Review: TESSAN International Power Plug with USB

This post may contain affiliate links. We may make a commission when you use our links. This will never cost you extra. Thank you for supporting Cruise Packing List!

Hands on Review: European Type C Fast USB Charger by LiFiYiRc… Use the 220 Outlet on Your Next Cruise!

Many cruise cabins have a common problem… lack of outlets. This has generally gotten better with newer ships, but can still be an issue. Even newer ships that have more cabin outlets, the outlets can be placed in such a way as to limit their usability. If two outlets are too close together… you can only use one.

To accommodate European travelers cruise lines will often include one or more 220 volt outlets. If you’re used to using three prong 120 volt electronics this outlet will most likely go unused.

One way to stretch out the outlets on your next cruise is to… use the 220 volt outlet.

This is a hands on look at the LiFiYiRc European Type C Mult Port Charging Block PD20W

This will allow you to make use of a European Type C outlet on your next cruise! Because it’s a USB charger there’s no need to check for AC 220/240 compatibility. That’s a requirement for many of the adapters featured on CPL. For lots more about this see: Cruise Ship Power Solutions – Making Use of the 220 Volt Cabin Outlet On Your Next Cruise

Check Current Price & Availability:

European USB C Charger Block, PD20W QC3.0 Fast Charging Multi Ports, 2 USB C 3 USB A Europe Plug Compatible for iPhone 15 14 13 12 11 Pro Max XS XR X SE Plus, Samsung S22 S21 A13, Phones – affiliate link, note that multiple variations of this product may be available, as such a different version may appear at this link

Attention Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruises:

This was reviewed, in part, on Royal Caribbean ships prior to their change in policy, banning multi-plug adapters. See article below. The way I interpret the policy, this should still be allowed since it does not have an AC outlet.

See Royal Caribbean Bans Multi-Plug Adapters and Extension Cords for more information and some alternatives

Cruise Ship Power Solutions – Making Use of the 220 Volt Cabin Outlet On Your Next Cruise

In the box. It reads 3USB+2PD, 65w Fast Charger, Type-C Charger, Model:F002, Input AC 100-240V 50/60Hz 0.5A, Output: 5V/7.2A, 9V/4.0A, 12V/3.0A Made in China

Close up of the bottom left front of the box

Back side of the box

For size reference next to a bottle of Sun Bum sunscreen (my standard size reference item on Cruise Packing List)

Hey… here it is on board Royal Caribbean’s Odyssey of the Seas!

A look at the charger

Side view

Closeup shows specifications and product certifications

Laying down

A look at the ports. Unfortunately I had this upside down when I took this photo. Oh well… guess I have to go back on Odyssey! 🙂 If this were right side up the ports would be labeled PD20W, QC3.0, PD15W, 3.1A and 3.1A

Hey look…. these two prongs match the European style outlet on Odyssey!

Plugged in!

Loaded up with cables charging stuff! The shows two 4 in 1 style USB charging cables. One in USB-A mode and one is USB-C mode (charging my laptop) along with a standard USB-A cable.

This can charge multiple items up to and including compatible laptops. My Dell XPS laptop has a 130 watt charger so this 65 watt charger is under powered although it was able to charge it at a slower rate. I wouldn’t leave the laptop charger at home, but this would work in a pinch.

Conclusions

This is a relatively cheap upgrade that makes cabin life easier. European type C devices have become must-pack items for all our cruises. Utilizing the European style outlet seems like magic. If you don’t have a European type C charger of some sort in your cruise gear, it’s a slam dunk. There are a number of styles to choose from. This is a great choice because of the ubiquity of USB devices and ease of use.

Also Consider:

European Travel Plug Adapter, TESSAN International Power Plug with 2 USB, Type C Outlet Adaptor Charger for US to Most of Europe EU Iceland Spain Italy France Germany – affiliate link, note that multiple variations of this product may be available, as such a different version may appear at this link
Two Outlet Version: European Travel Plug Adapter Converter | TESSAN International Power Plug Converter with 2 USB | Type C Outlet Adaptor Charger | for US to Most of Europe EU Iceland Spain Italy France Germany

What Are Other’s Saying?

Search this product’s Amazon reviews for “cruise” – may include reviews for other sizes or variations

For lots more about what you should pack for your next cruise check out our complete packing list.

This post may contain affiliate links. We may make a commission when you use our links. This will never cost you extra. Thank you for supporting Cruise Packing List!

Cruise Ship Power Solutions – Making Use of the 220 Volt Cabin Outlet On Your Next Cruise

All About Night Lights for Your Next Cruise!

Make sure the components you use are compatible and rated for your intended application. Contact manufacturer with questions about suitability or a specific application. Always read and follow manufacturer directions. 9.13.24 review:LiFiYiRc tag:tpru

DUAL Outlet Type C Travel Plug – Outlet + USB Ports… $6.99! – Use the 220 Outlet on Your Next Cruise

Pictured: European Travel Plug Adapter Converter | TESSAN International Power Plug Converter with 2 USB | Type C Outlet Adaptor Charger | for US to Most of Europe EU Iceland Spain Italy France Germany – See: Hands on Review: TESSAN International Power Plug with USB

DUAL Outlet Type C Travel Plug – Outlet + USB Ports

More Info

From the product description, check product page for current description, price and availability:

US to Europe Plug Adapter: This type c plug adapter is compatible in most European countries such as France, Germany, Greece, Italy, Spain, Hungary, Portugal, Poland, Netherlands, Jordan, Israel, Turkey, Iceland, Austria, Finland, and more (Tips: Some Europe countries may need Type G adapter, such as UK,Ireland, Scotland, please check before travel)
4 in 1 European Plug Adapter: This adapters for Europe can turn 1 Europe Type C socket into 2 American outlet and 2 USB ports, charge up to 4 devices at a time without blocking; Ideal for traveler, business man and foreign student use in airports, hotels and dorm room
European Adapter with USB: 2 USB ports can detect charged devices and deliver optimum charging speed up to 2.4A max per port, meet various charging demands for your EU journey; ideal for cell phone, tablet, earphone, camera, etc
Compact Size: With only 4.3oz lightweight design, portable size allows this Europe power adapter easily put in your pocket, effectively saving the space of your suitcase, backpack and handbag; No surge protection, no cords, making it fully cruise ship approved
NOTE: This Plug Converter US to Europe only works on 100V to 250V wide voltage devices. If you want to use your travel fan, electric shaver, hair dryer, straightener, or electric toothbrush, they need to support 100V to 250V dual voltage, otherwise you need a voltage converter

What are Other’s Saying? Search this product’s Amazon reviews for “cruise” – may include reviews for other sizes or variations

This will allow you to make use of a European Type C outlet on your next cruise! Note that this is not a voltage converter. Many electronics are designed to operate in the 220 volt range. For lots more about this see: Cruise Ship Power Solutions – Making Use of the 220 Volt Cabin Outlet On Your Next Cruise

Check out my in depth hands on review of this adapter!

2/4 8 AM Central: This is selling for just $6.99. Prices, promotions and availability can change quickly. Check product page for current info and availability.

European Travel Plug Adapter, TESSAN International Power Plug with 2 USB, Type C Outlet Adaptor Charger for US to Most of Europe EU Iceland Spain Italy France Germany – affiliate link, note that multiple variations of this product may be available, as such a different version may appear at this link

Also available in a one outlet version: European Travel Plug Adapter, TESSAN International Power Plug with 2 USB, Type C Outlet Adaptor Charger for US to Most of Europe EU Iceland Spain Italy France Germany – affiliate link, note that multiple variations of this product may be available, as such a different version may appear at this link

I’m guessing neither of these are currently allowed on Royal or Celebrity.

For lots more about what you should pack for your next cruise check out our complete packing list.

Cruise Ship Power Solutions – Making Use of the 220 Volt Cabin Outlet On Your Next Cruise

This post may contain affiliate links. We may make a commission when you use our links. This will never cost you extra. Thank you for supporting Cruise Packing List!

Travel Cable Organizer – on sale for $9.85

FYY Travel Cable Organizer Pouch

More Info

From the product description, check product page for current description, price and availability:

Dimensions: The Size of the cable storage travel case: 7.5″ x 4.3″ x 2.2″. Compact size and lightweight make it easy to carry and put into your backpack, handbags or laptop bag without taking much space. Suitable for family use and daily organization. Please Note: The little net pockets can only fit no longer than 3ft charging cords, the charging cords which longer than 3ft, please put in the larger pockets.
Quality Material: This electronic organizer travel case made of high quality durable waterproof oxford and soft sponge inside to secure your gadgets in place and deliver a quick access whenever you want, a perfect case protects your electronics accessories.
Double Layers Design: The electronics storage bag has 2 layers interior compartment with enough space to take in your cords, cables, USB drive, cellphone, charger, mouse, flash drive, and other accessories.
Practical and Convenient: Comes with a comfortable hand strap for easy carrying; You may carry it in your hand when heading out. Durable and smooth zipper closure keeps your favorite device securely, convenient for you to have quick access to the items inside the case.
Portable and Lightweight: The small size and lightweight design durable cable organizer pouch is a perfect choice when going on holiday, business trip, travel, office. Great gift for yourself also a nice share with families and friends. (No include cords, electronic accessories)

2/3 8 AM Central: This is on sale for $9.85. Prices, promotions and availability can change quickly. Check product page for current info and availability.

FYY Travel Cable Organizer Pouch Electronic Accessories Carry Case Portable Waterproof Double Layers All-in-One Storage Bag for Cord, Charger, Phone, Earphone Black – affiliate link, note that multiple variations of this product may be available, as such a different version may appear at this link

This post may contain affiliate links. We may make a commission when you use our links. This will never cost you extra. Thank you for supporting Cruise Packing List!

Price, promotions and availability can change quickly. Check the product page for current price, description and availability.

Save an Outlet on Your Next Cruise… 3 x USB-C Rechargeable Night Lights – on sale for $17.89, $6 each

Lyridz Rechargeable Night Light, Motion Sensor Battery Night Light, Mini Stick-on LED Closet Light, 1-20LM Dimmable Brightness for Bedroom, Kitchen, Washroom, Stairs, Hallway, 3-Pack

More Info

From the product description, check product page for current description, price and availability:

USB RECHARGEABLE NIGHT LIGHT: No worries about buying and changing non-recyclable AAA batteries frequently; Fully charged in about 3 hours, lasting 10 hours(Max brightness) or 25 hours(Min brightness).
DIMMABLE LED NIGHT LIGHT: Long press the brightness button to achieve stepless brightness adjustment, 1-20LM can adjust the brightness to meet the use of different environments; You can also click to select the preset 5 fixed brightness (1LM, 5LM, 10LM, 15LM, 20LM).
SMART MOTION SENSOR LIGHT: In a dark environment, the light is on for 30s when motion is sensed; If no motion is sensed again after 20s, the night light will automatically turn off; This design can effectively reduce unnecessary power consumption and achieve energy saving, low carbon and environmental protection, also you can set to ON mode, night light will be always light up; The motion sensor be effective at a detection angle of 120 degrees and a range of 10-13 feet.
COMFORTABLE LIGHT & REJECT DAZZLING: People are tired of the dazzling lights at night, this battery night light of LYRIDZ adopts a semi-hidden LED lamp bead design. In addition, the color temperature value of 2700k is very soft, comfortable and not dazzling while ensuring the brightness of the light; As a sleep night light, you will feel be relaxed and comfortable, don’t wake you up at midnight.
EASY TO INSTALL & WIDE APPLICATION: The motion night light size is 2.48*2.44*0.59 inch, this smart mini night light comes with a magnet on the back, and you can stick it on any iron surface; Also, Each night light is a also individually equipped with a 3M patch, with an iron surface on the front and 3M glue on the back; This mini LED night light perfect for the bathroom, kitchen, kids’ room, nursery, garage, stairway, hallway, basement, and anywhere you need a little temporary lighting

What are Other’s Saying? Search this product’s Amazon reviews for “cruise” – may include reviews for other sizes or variations

Rechargeable, motion sensing. Because they’re rechargeable you won’t be taking up a precious outlet in your cruise cabin. This also allows you to put a night light in one of the darkest places in your cabin (on many ships) that a lot of times doesn’t even have an outlet… that bathroom. See: All About Night Lights for Your Next Cruise also Making Use of the 220 Volt Cabin Outlet

These appear to be very similar to the ones I use which the notable exception that these are USB-C rechargeable (instead of micro USB). The USB-C is nice and it probably means you won’t have to carry an extra cable just to charge these since so many things are USB-C now.

2/2 10 PM Central: These are on sale for $17.89. Prices, promotions and availability can change quickly. Check product page for current info and availability.

Lyridz Rechargeable Night Light, Motion Sensor Battery Night Light, Mini Stick-on LED Closet Light, 1-20LM Dimmable Brightness for Bedroom, Kitchen, Washroom, Stairs, Hallway, 3-Pack – affiliate link, note that multiple variations of this product may be available, as such a different version may appear at this link

Also: AUVON Rechargeable Battery Night Light, Mini Motion Sensor Night Light, Warm White LED Stick-On Closet Light with Dusk to Dawn Sensor, Adjustable Brightness for Wall, Stairs, Hallway, Cabinet (2 Pack)

For lots more about what you should pack for your next cruise check out our complete packing list.

This post may contain affiliate links. We may make a commission when you use our links. This will never cost you extra. Thank you for supporting Cruise Packing List!

Related: All About Night Lights from Your Next Cruise

All About Night Lights for Your Next Cruise!

Cruise Ship Power Solutions – Making Use of the 220 Volt Cabin Outlet On Your Next Cruise

Save an Outlet on Your Next Cruise… 2 x Rechargeable Night Lights – $16.99, $8.50 each

From my Hands on Review of these great night lights

More Info

From the product description, check product page for current description, price and availability:

Living Smart with Mini Motion Sensor Night Lights. Many AUVON customers use them as a visual aid for stairs and other potential obstacles or hazards. These mini led nightlights are also chosen for young children who are afraid of nightmare and darkness, as well as nursing mothers making late-night visits to their infant’s room
2nd Gen Rechargeable Night Light. No worries about buying and changing non-recyclable AAA batteries frequently. A two-hour charge for this rechargeable battery night light can last up to 180 days when choosing Auto+Medium Mode. It’s with a magnetic strip for mounting in addition to double-sided 3M adhesive pads for places with limited electricity access. As it can stand on any flat surfaces, you could place it wherever you love for lighting the way.
Passive Infrared Technology. It uses an expensive passive infrared motion sensor to detect movement within 3-5 meters for automatic turn-on, and will automatically turn off after 20 seconds of no movement.
5 Useful Modes. 2 Brightness Modes and 3 Lighting Modes are included for a battery night light. You can choose the desired brightness from the high or medium by simply pressing a button on the top of it while choosing lighting modes from AUTO, ON or OFF for different occasions and provide you the best using experience.
What You Receive: 2* AUVON Night Lights, 1* USB Cable,1* User Manual, up to 24 Month Warranty and Lifetime Technicalm Support.

1/29 7 AM Central: These are selling for $16.99. Prices, promotions and availability can change quickly. Check product page for current info and availability.

AUVON Rechargeable Battery Night Light, Mini Motion Sensor Night Light, Warm White LED Stick-On Closet Light with Dusk to Dawn Sensor, Adjustable Brightness for Wall, Stairs, Hallway, Cabinet (2 Pack) – affiliate link, note that multiple variations of this product may be available, as such a different version may appear at this link

For lots more about what you should pack for your next cruise check out our complete packing list.

This post may contain affiliate links. We may make a commission when you use our links. This will never cost you extra. Thank you for supporting Cruise Packing List!

Related: All About Night Lights from Your Next Cruise

All About Night Lights for Your Next Cruise!

Cruise Ship Power Solutions – Making Use of the 220 Volt Cabin Outlet On Your Next Cruise

Use the 220 Outlet on Your Next Cruise… Type C Travel Plug – Outlet + USB Ports… $8.99

Pictured: European Travel Plug Adapter, TESSAN International Power Plug with 2 USB, Type C Outlet Adaptor Charger for US to Most of Europe EU Iceland Spain Italy France Germany – See: Hands on Review: TESSAN International Power Plug with USB

European Travel Plug Adapter, TESSAN International Power Plug with 2 USB, Type C Outlet Adaptor Charger for US to Most of Europe EU Iceland Spain Italy France Germany

More Info

From the product description, check product page for current description, price and availability:

US to Europe Plug Adapter: Compatible in most European countries such as Austria, Belarus, Belgium, Croatia, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany,Greece, Hungary,Portugal, Poland, Netherlands,Spain, Turkey, Italy; More country list can be checked in description; Note: not work in UK/Ireland/Scotland
3 in 1 European Plug Adapter: This adapters for European can turn 1 Europe Type C socket into American outlet and 2 USB ports, charge up to 3 devices at a time without blocking; Ideal for traveler, business man and foreign student use in airports, hotels and dorm room
European Adapter with USB: 2 USB ports can detect charged devices and deliver optimum charging speed up to 2.4A max per port, meet various charging demands for your EU journey; ideal for cell phone, tablet, earphone, camera, etc
Compact Size: With only 3.1oz lightweight design, portable size allows this Europe power adapter easily put in your pocket, effectively saving space of your suitcase, backpack, handbag; No surge protection, no cords, making it fully cruise ship approved
Note: This Type C plug adapter is only compatible for 100V to 250V wide voltage devices. If you want to use your travel fan, electric shaver, hair dryer, straightener, or electric toothbrush, they need to support 100V to 250V dual voltage, otherwise you need a voltage converter

What are Other’s Saying? Search this product’s Amazon reviews for “cruise” – may include reviews for other sizes or variations

Check out my in depth hands on review of this adapter!

1/29 1 PM Central: These are selling for just $8.99. Prices, promotions and availability can change quickly. Check product page for current info and availability.

Also available in a two outlet version: European Travel Plug Adapter Converter | TESSAN International Power Plug Converter with 2 USB | Type C Outlet Adaptor Charger | for US to Most of Europe EU Iceland Spain Italy France Germany

The way I interpret Royal’s announcement that multi-plug adapters are banned… these are probably no longer allowed on Royal and Celebrity ships.

For lots more about what you should pack for your next cruise check out our complete packing list.

Cruise Ship Power Solutions – Making Use of the 220 Volt Cabin Outlet On Your Next Cruise

This post may contain affiliate links. We may make a commission when you use our links. This will never cost you extra. Thank you for supporting Cruise Packing List!

Price, promotions and availability can change quickly. Check the product page for current price, description and availability. prod:B07FJWLLDB

Why a Backup SIM is a Requirement for International Travel

Why a Backup SIM is a Requirement for Foreign Travel

If you’ve traveled internationally enough, you’ve probably heard this before: “Don’t worry, your international plan will just work.” In theory, that’s true. In practice, it doesn’t always play out that way.

I’ve personally had multiple trips where my Verizon international plan was active, enabled, and paid for—and still didn’t work when I needed it most. No data. No reliable signal. Sometimes not even basic connectivity. When everything depends on that connection, the consequences can range from mildly annoying to genuinely stressful.

The photo above was taken during a river cruise on the Seine, with the Eiffel Tower in the background. It was an unforgettable vacation and an experience we’ll always treasure.

So why include that photo in a discussion about backup eSIMs? Because on this trip, our Verizon international coverage completely failed—on both my phone and my wife’s. Despite having an active international plan, we had no reliable connectivity when we needed it most.

If we hadn’t planned ahead with backup coverage, navigating the city, accessing reservations, and getting where we needed to go would have been far more difficult. In fact, we likely would have missed several key sites we’d wanted to see our entire lives. That experience reinforced just how critical a backup connection can be when traveling abroad.

That’s why I now consider a backup eSIM an essential part of foreign travel, right alongside a passport, power adapter, and travel insurance.

eSIM Providers To Consider
When Your “Guaranteed” International Plan Fails
Why a Backup SIM Matters
Situations Where Connectivity Really Matters
Why This Matters Even More for Cruises
It’s Also Okay to Disconnect
Redundancy = A Smoother Trip and Less Hassle
Bottom Line
Top eSIM Providers for International Travel
How eSIMs Work

eSim Providers To Consider:

When Your “Guaranteed” International Plan Fails

Major carriers like Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile generally do a good job with international roaming—but they are still dependent on local variables that can break at the worst moment. Things like:

Local carrier partnerships (and which towers your phone is allowed to use)
Network congestion (especially in busy airports and city centers)
Regional coverage quirks (even within the same country)
Device compatibility / band support
Roaming provisioning working correctly at that moment

If any one of those fails, your phone can suddenly become far less useful than you expected. And if you’re landing after a long flight or trying to navigate a new city, that’s the last time you want to be troubleshooting.

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Why a Backup SIM (Especially an eSIM) Matters

A backup SIM isn’t about replacing your primary plan—it’s about redundancy. Think of it like carrying a spare credit card or packing a second charging cable. You hope you won’t need it, but if something goes wrong, you’re instantly glad you planned ahead.

A secondary SIM or eSIM gives you:

An independent connection to local networks
Immediate data access if roaming fails
A way to troubleshoot issues without being completely offline

With modern eSIMs, it’s even easier: you can install it before you leave, keep it inactive until you need it, and avoid physically swapping SIM cards.

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Situations Where Connectivity Really Matters

There are plenty of times when being offline isn’t just inconvenient—it’s a genuine problem. Examples include:

Navigating airports, ports, train stations, or unfamiliar cities
Accessing maps, ride-share apps, and transit schedules
Pulling up hotel confirmations, tour details, and reservation emails
Using translation tools on the fly
Handling flight delays, cancellations, or rebookings
Reaching travel companions when plans change

In those moments, “I’ll just find Wi-Fi” isn’t always a reliable plan.

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Why This Matters Even More for Cruises

Cruise travel adds an extra layer of complexity. On a cruise, you might be:

Embarking or disembarking in multiple countries
Moving quickly through ports with limited time
Switching between ship Wi-Fi, cellular roaming, and local networks

A backup eSIM helps ensure that the moment you step off the ship, you have working data—no guessing, no waiting, and no scrambling for a café with free Wi-Fi while your port day clock is ticking.

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It’s Also Okay to Disconnect (And That’s Great)

It’s worth saying clearly: not everyone wants to be connected while traveling—and that’s perfectly valid. For many people, travel (and cruising especially) is about unplugging:

No email
No notifications
No constant connectivity

If that’s your goal, you might not want to use a backup SIM much (or at all). But even for travelers who prefer to disconnect, a backup eSIM can still be a smart safety net—something you activate only if plans go sideways or you need to handle an important issue.

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Redundancy = A Smoother Trip and Less Hassle

The idea is simple: when something is important, having a backup matters. There’s a saying you may have heard—“two is one, and one is none.” It’s a reminder that relying on a single option can leave you stuck when something goes wrong.

On trips where reliable data really matters, I take that mindset seriously and carry two backup eSIM options. In addition to the backup on my own phone, my wife’s phone is set up with a plan from a different eSIM provider.

That extra layer of redundancy means we’re not relying on a single carrier, a single app, or a single network relationship. If one provider has issues in a specific country or region, the other often works just fine. It may sound like overkill, but when navigation, reservations, or time-sensitive plans are involved, having multiple independent options can be the difference between a smooth day and a stressful one.

You’ll often hear influencers say something like, “Today’s video is sponsored by ___, it’s the eSIM I always use.” You’re not going to hear that from me. On the Europe trip mentioned earlier, we used Airalo, GigSky, and Saily across two phones. When our primary service failed, we didn’t miss a beat.

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Bottom Line

International roaming plans are convenient, but they’re not infallible. When they fail, it’s often at the worst possible time.

A backup SIM or eSIM isn’t about being glued to your phone—it’s about being prepared. For anyone who values flexibility, safety, and stress-free travel days, it’s a simple step that can prevent a lot of frustration.

These services are generally inexpensive, which makes it practical to pick up two or even three eSIMs from different providers. Since these plans are meant to act as a safety net for your primary carrier, you can start with the cheapest data option and add more only if you need it.

When connectivity matters, having a backup isn’t overkill—it’s smart travel planning.

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Top eSIM Providers for International Travel

If you’re adding a backup eSIM to your travel toolkit, it helps to know the leading providers that make it easy to stay connected overseas. Below are some of the most popular and reliable options for travelers in 2026:

Airalo

Airalo is one of the most widely used eSIM providers for global travel. It offers a large marketplace of data plans that work in many countries worldwide — with plans available for as few as a few days up to a year. Travelers appreciate Airalo for its affordability, easy app interface, and ability to purchase and install eSIMs before departure, making it ideal for short trips or light data users. I personally use Airalo and it has worked great! Hands on Review

GigSky

GigSky is another top choice, especially for travelers who want broad geographic coverage and flexible data options. It supports data plans in a very large number of countries and regions, with plans ranging from a few gigabytes for a week to larger packages for longer stays. Some of its plans can be installed once and used as you move between destinations — a strong option if you’re visiting multiple countries on a single trip. As an added bonus, GigSky works on cruise ships! I’ve also personally used GigSky and been very happy. Hands on Review

Holafly

Holafly stands out for offering unlimited data options in many destinations, which can be excellent for heavy data users or travelers who don’t want to worry about gigabyte limits. While generally a bit more expensive, unlimited plans can be great for long trips, streaming, or working remotely.

Ubigi

Ubigi offers both one-off eSIM data plans and subscription options that work in a large number of countries. Its plans can make sense if you want flexibility between pay-as-you-go and recurrent usage, and many travelers find it useful for both short trips and longer stays.

There are many other eSIM providers on the market (like Saily, Jetpac, and aloSIM) with varying price points and features, but the ones above are consistently among the most recommended for international travelers in 2025–2026. Choosing the right one depends on your travel style — whether you value budget pricing, unlimited data, or robust multi-country coverage.

Saily

Saily is a traveler-friendly eSIM provider known for simple setup, flexible data plans, and broad coverage in 200+ destinations. You can purchase and install a plan before you depart and manage everything from the Saily app — making it a good choice if you want straightforward connectivity without swapping physical SIM cards.

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How eSIMs Work

An eSIM (embedded SIM) is a digital version of a traditional SIM card that’s built directly into your phone. Instead of inserting a physical card, you download a carrier profile by scanning a QR code or using an app.

Once installed, the eSIM connects your device to local cellular networks just like a physical SIM would. Most modern smartphones can store multiple eSIM profiles at once, allowing you to switch between them in your phone’s settings.

For travelers, this means you can set up a data plan before you leave, activate it only if needed, and avoid hunting for SIM cards or relying entirely on roaming when you arrive.

Related Resources:

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This post may contain affiliate links. We may make a commission when you use our links. This will never cost you extra. Thank you for supporting Cruise Packing List!

Prices, promotions and availability can change quickly. Check product page for current info and availability.

All information provided is deemed accurate at time of publishing, but is not guaranteed and should be independently verified. top:backupsim tag:tpr

Hands on Review: Airalo e-SIM – use your phone internationally!

Airalo is app for iOS/iPhone and Android smart phones that makes it easy and inexpensive to use your compatible phone internationally. They partner with local and regional providers to provide short term coverage in many parts of the world.

First… What’s a SIM Card?

SIM is an acronym stands for Subscriber Identity Module. It’s small card that fits in select phones that’s basically the digital identification for the phone. You can theoretically quickly change phones by swapping out your physical SIM card.

What’s an eSIM Card?

Fast forward to eSIM cards. eSIM stands for Embedded Subscriber Identity Module. Instead of a physical SIM card an eSIM is a logical identity for select phones. No need for a physical SIM card.

The part where the magic comes in… Some phones also allow you to have multiple eSIM cards. So you can actually have multiple phone numbers on a single phone.

Get FREE Airalo Credit!

Use code CHRIS1167 when you make your eSIM purchase and you’ll get $3 in free credit to apply to your purchase!

What devices support Airalo eSIM?

To use an eSIM, your device must be carrier-unlocked and eSIM-compatible.

Airalo provides a regularly updated list of supported devices.

An eSIM example…

Here is a screenshot from my iPhone. On the top left you’ll see my primary carrier Verizon. Below that is my secondary carrier Tello. I use two carriers, one for business the other for personal. If you want to give Tello a try use referral code P3XR5K8D and earn Tello dollars.

Using Airalo for international coverage!…

We recently went on a cruise to Aruba, Curaçao and the Bahamas. I decided to give Airalo a try and purchased e-SIM cards for Aruba and Curaçao.

Purchasing an e-SIM card for Curaçao. I went with 1 GB of data. We were in Curaçao for about a day. The e-SIM I purchased was valid for up to 7 days. This was a data only e-SIM meaning I didn’t have a local phone number. I didn’t need to use the phone if I had to I could have used Google Voice, WhatsApp, Skype or FaceTime. Of course there are other apps that can utilize a data connection for phone calls and video chat.

Purchasing an e-SIM card for Aruba. Also 1 GB data and 7 days.

Here’s my phone after purchasing and installing both e-SIM. As of this update iPhone 15 can handle up to eight e-SIM with a maximum of two active e-SIM cards at any one time. Note that my Verizon and Tello numbers have been redacted.

Using Airalo in Curaçao

I enabled my Curaçao e-SIM card and disabled all other e-SIMs installed on my phone

Whammo I’m connected

I fired up Google Maps for directions to the beach we wanted to go to.

We made it to Cas Abao beach! It was beautiful!

I tried Blue Curaçao. It was pretty good.

I tweeted from the beach to test the connection. It worked great. Connect with me on X!

Let’s be friends! Twitter | Instagram | Facebook | Pinterest | RSS

When I bought the e-SIM card the carrier was named Dushi wireless. I had no idea what that meant, but learned when visiting. visitaruba.com says… “Dushi – This is such a dynamic Papiamento word. In Aruba, ‘dushi‘ is used to describe food as ‘sweet‘ or ‘yummy‘ tasting, or to indicate that a sensation is good (think of pleasant smells or nice music), but it is also used as a term of endearment for your lover, translated as ‘sweetheart‘ or ‘sweety‘.”

Speedtest. The connection was quite zippy. This test shows 58.4 megabits down and 46.6 megabits up.

At the end of the day I still had 700 MB left. It’s worth noting that you can also buy longer eSIMs with more data AND you can purchase eSIMs for entire regions instead of a single country.

We had a wonderful time in Curaçao!

This post may contain affiliate links. We may make a commission when you use our links. This will never cost you extra. Thank you for supporting Cruise Packing List!

Using Airalo in Aruba

I tweeted from Eagle Beach to test the connection. It worked great. Connect with me on X!

Airalo’s partner in Aruba was blazing fast. Here’s a speed test. This test shows 114 megabits down and 26.9 megabits up.

We had an amazing time in Aruba! This was our first time doing a Southern Itinerary cruise and it was one of our favorites!

Conclusions

Airalo worked flawlessly! I paid $9.50 per eSIM card. Each card had 7 days of validity. That’s much cheaper than my carrier’s international coverage. Going forward Airalo will be a regular part of our international travel!

Get FREE Airalo Credit!

Use code CHRIS1167 when you make your eSIM purchase and you’ll get $3 in free credit to apply to your purchase!

Related: Pelican’s IP68 Waterproof Phone Case – affiliate link, note that multiple variations of this product may be available, as such a different version may appear at this link

Related: Using Your Cell Phone Onboard with WiFi Calling!

My iPhone with Royal Caribbean Adventure of the Seas Royal Promenade int eh Background. See “VZW Wi-Fi”

Related: FREE… Royal Caribbean Perfect Day at CocoCay Phone Wallpaper

Setting Up Your Own Wireless WiFi Hotspot on Your Next Cruise!

This post may contain affiliate links. We may make a commission when you use our links. This will never cost you extra. Thank you for supporting Cruise Packing List!

All information provided is deemed accurate at time of publishing, but is not guaranteed and should be independently verified. 1.15.24 top:airaloreview tag:tpru

Hands on Review: Auvon Rechargeable Night Lights + The Problem with Cruise Ship Bathrooms at Night

A lot of cruise packing lists, blogs and videos recommend packing a night light for your next cruise vacation and for good reason cabins can get dark at night, especially interior cabins. A night light can help prevent you from bumping into things.

What About the Lack of Outlets?

The problem is… Traditional night lights take up an outlet. Outlets can be a precious commodity in your cruise ship cabin with some cabins having as little as… 1 outlet. This has generally gotten better with newer ships, but can still be an issue. Even newer ships that have more cabin outlets, the outlets can be placed in such a way as to limit their usability. If two outlets are too close together… you can only use one.

One potential solution to this problem is a 220v night light. These utilize an often ignored and unused 220v outlet that is present in many cabins.

Another solution is a rechargeable night light. Since they’re rechargeable they don’t take up an outlet after they’ve been charged.

This is particularly helpful when it comes to cabin bathrooms. Very often these have 0 usable outlets.

The problem with cruise ship bathrooms at night

A rechargeable night light is also great for one particular trouble spot in your cabin… your cabin bathroom. Some cabin bathrooms are completely dark. Like… completely dark. Also a lot of times the light switch is on on the outside of the bathroom. To avoid being trapped in a small dark box you need to turn on the light before entering and potentially disturb your cabin mate. Also that much light can have a tendency to wake a person up. Okay, so… plug in a night light? Think again, most cabin bathrooms don’t have an outlet.

An illustration of the dark cruise ship cabin bathroom

This is a video of me going from my bed into the bathroom with no lights on. There’s not much to the video, except for sound as it’s completely black because the room is so dark. The video was taken on Royal Caribbean’s Adventure of the Seas in a Jr Suite.

A picture to illustrate. This is the bathroom on Royal Caribbean’s Adventure of the Seas with no lights on.

This is the door to the bathroom. As you can see, the light switch is on the outside of the door. That’s the case with most/all cruise ship cabins we’ve been in. So, let’s say you get up in the middle of the night and stumble your way over to this bathroom door. In order to have any amount of light in the bathroom you need to turn on the switch before entering. That means you’ve flooded your cabin with light and potentially woken someone up. Beyond that, when you get in the bathroom you’ll be in a completely lit room and that can make it more difficult to fall back asleep.

This is a video of me going from my bed into the bathroom with this rechargeable night light on. As you can see… this is a MUCH better experience. The video was taken on Royal Caribbean’s Adventure of the Seas in a Jr Suite.

A photo with the night light on. This is a much better experience all around. No fumbling for the switch, no flooding the cabin with light. Just a small amount of always on light .

Hands on Review Auvon Rechargeable Night Lights

Front of the box

Check Current Price, Availability and Specs:

Back of the box

It came with a manual and charging cable. I did not receiving a charging box. This can be used with any standard USB charging box.

Auvon USB rechargeable night light

A look at the back. These are magnetic. They also come with an installable base so they can be mounted on non magnetic surfaces. For cruise ship cabins, walls are generally made of metal, so no base is needed.

A look at the controls. The switch on the left let’s you choose between auto, on and off. The button on the right changes the light’s brightness. For the bathroom I set it to on and low light level. Mine easily lasted a week on one charge, leaving it on every night.

Charging the night light

Turned on

All cruise ship cabin walls are generally made of metal. Here’s the Auvon rechargeable night light above the bathroom light switch on Royal Caribbean’s Adventure of the Seas

Installed on the bathroom door frame on Royal Caribbean’s Adventure of the Seas

Sitting below the sink on Royal Caribbean’s Adventure of the Seas

Conclusions

These are a must-pack item when we travel, especially when we cruise. They are small, have a long battery life and are easy to charge. For cruises in particular these are an easy solution to two problems. First, outlets are generally in short supply. These don’t need an outlet. Second, some cruise ship cabins can be a little hazardous at night. Having these to add a little bit of light to dark spots is a huge help. Especially when it comes to the bathroom.

Check Current Price, Availability and Specs:

For lots more about what you should pack for your next cruise check out our complete packing list.

What Are Other’s Saying?

Search this product’s Amazon reviews for “cruise” – may include reviews for other sizes or variations

All About Night Lights for Your Next Cruise!

Cruise Ship Power Solutions – Making Use of the 220 Volt Cabin Outlet On Your Next Cruise

This post may contain affiliate links. We may make a commission when you use our links. This will never cost you extra. Thank you for supporting Cruise Packing List!

Hands on Review: GigSky World Mobile Data eSIM – works on cruise ships!

First… What’s a SIM Card?

What’s an eSIM Card?

Fast forward to eSIM cards. eSIM stands for Embedded Subscriber Identity Module. Instead of a physical SIM card an eSIM is a logical identity for select phones. No need for a physical SIM card.

The part where the magic comes in… Some phones also allow you to have multiple eSIM cards. So you can actually have multiple phone numbers on a single phone.

If you’re an avid reader you’ll have read my Airalo review. Airalo is an an app that allows international cell phone use throughout the world via their app and eSIM cards.

GigSky is in international coverage eSIM provider with a twist… keep reading.

Coupon Code!

Use coupon code cruisepacklist to save when you buy a GigSky eSIM package!

What makes GigSky revolutionary for cruise travelers?…

Cruise ships are considered countries when it comes to coverage from your cell phone company. If you look under international coverage at your carrier you’ll often time see cruise ship names listed in the mix.

Here’s the thing… to my knowledge no carrier provides favorable rates or packaged data deals for ANY cruise ship. Beyond that no eSIM provider (again to my knowledge) provides coverage on a cruise ship.

GigSky…. DOES offer coverage on over 200 cruise ships! That’s along with coverage in many foreign countries.

This means you can access the internet on ships in their network as part of their reasonable eSIM data bundles! They also offer tethering so you can use purchased data on your laptop with the aid of a compatible smart phone.

A compatible phone is required.

If you’re a light to moderate internet user when cruising a GigSky eSIM could save you a substantial amount of money compared to onboard internet. I’ll be trying this out on our next cruise. Some questions I’m going to get answered are what is the coverage like onboard and what internet speeds can we expect.

Coupon Code!

Use coupon code cruisepacklist to save when you buy a GigSky eSIM package!

Hands on Review GigSky World Mobile Data!

The first step to getting going with GigSky is to install the app on your iPhone or Android and purchase a plan. If you’re planning to use GigSky on a cruise make sure to choose a Cruise+ plan that fits your needs.

GigSky Smartphone Apps

GigSky: eSIM & Unlimited Data for iPhone
GigSky: Buy eSIM Online for Android

Tip: your plan becomes active as soon as you activate your eSIM in a covered country. Since my plan included the US GigSky nicely reminded me that my 15 days would start right away when I activated the card. Wait until just before your trip to activate your eSIM.

I tapped continue to activate my eSIM

Whammo!

After installing the eSIM this is how my Cellular settings looked. Verizon is my primary US carrier. I can toggle additional carriers on and off. The Curacao and Aruba eSIMs are from my Airalo Review.

Using GigSky onboard a Cruise Ship!

Once onboard I activated the GigSky eSIM card in Cellular Settings. It’s very important that you disable your primary US carrier when you do this. If you don’t you could incur extra charges. See: Using Your Cell Phone Onboard with WiFi Calling for more about that.

Coverage onboard Celebrity Ascent

At times it took a few minutes to get GigSky coverage onboard. I’m going to theorize how this all works so if that sounds boring, just keep reading. Modern cruise ships have many WiFi access points. I can confidently say hundreds, potentially thousands of access points. Those constantly serve a WiFi signal. My theory is that these access points also have cell phone capabilities. They each can act as a mini cell phone tower. But cell phone use is much less common. What I think happens is that these access points periodically start the cell phone signal to see if any clients are looking for a signal. If one is, the cell phone signal stays on as long as it’s needed. That way, they ship isn’t one massive cell phone tower consuming energy and whatever else a cell phone signal does. It’s only on in select areas as needed. Again, a theory.

Yes… you can tether your laptop with GigSky!

GigSky allows you to use personal hotspot to tether your laptop and other devices to your GigSky connection! I just enabled Personal Hotspot on my iPhone and connected my laptop.

Connecting on the laptop

And whammo, I can get to one of my favorite websites. Take a second to realize what’s happening here… I am accessing the Internet onboard a cruise ship in the middle of the ocean with zero cost for WiFi from the cruise ship. This is amazing!

Speed Testing GigSky on a cruise ship

First a look at Celebrity’s WiFi. Celebrity and Royal Caribbean both use SpaceX Starlink to power their WiFi networks. Everyone raves about SpaceX and it is revolutionary. But here’s a fact… When you buy a WiFi package you’re subject to a bandwidth cap. I had the premium WiFi and that pretty regularly came in under 5 megabits per second. Here it’s showing 4.77 megabits per second.

This is a test tethered to my iPhone using the GigSky connection. I got… 10.61 megabits per second well over double what I got with the Starlink connection! That’s amazing.

Using GigSky vs Cruise Line WiFi

If you’re a light to moderate Internet user onboard, GigSky is a great option and could potentially save you a lot of money. If you’re a heavy user that needs to do a lot of video conferencing or streaming cruise ship WiFi may be a better option.

As of this option GigSky offers plans up to 30 days in length so could easily use one plan on back to back cruises.

Speed Testing in the Dominican Republic

GigSky World Data provides… world data, so it works in many foreign countries as well. This is based on which plan you choose. I chose Cruise+ Americas/Caribbean.

As of this writing the following countries are included in that plan (subject to change, check GigSky for current plans)…

Anguilla
Antigua and Barbuda
Argentina
Aruba
Bahamas
Barbados
Belize
Bermuda
Bolivia
Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba
Brazil
British Virgin Islands
Canada
Cayman Islands
Chile
Colombia
Costa Rica
Curaçao
Dominica
Dominican Republic
Ecuador
El Salvador
French Guiana
Grenada
Guadeloupe
Guatemala
Haiti
Honduras
Jamaica
Martinique
Mexico
Montserrat
Nicaragua
Panama
Paraguay
Peru
Puerto Rico
Saint Barthélemy
Saint Kitts and Nevis
Saint Lucia
Saint Martin
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
Sint Maarten
Trinidad and Tobago
Turks and Caicos Islands
U.S. Virgin Islands
United States of America
Uruguay

All that to say, I had GigSky coverage on all of our ports for this particular cruise.

Here’s a speed test in Puerto Plato Dominican Republic. 53.8 megabits download speed. That’s pretty good!

As a backup for your primary provider

As of this writing my current primary cell phone plan is Verizon’s MyPlan Unlimited Ultimate. That plan includes international talk, text and data is 210+ countries. The list includes St Martin.

This screenshot was taken while I was in St Martin a country that is included in my Verizon plan and a country that should have coverage. I had no data coverage at all with my Verizon plan. I was supposed to, but I didn’t. That’s just how things work sometimes.

If international coverage is important to you, my recommendation is to have a backup eSIM plan. In my case, I just switched over to GigSky and I was up and going. We are planning to go to Europe this summer where Internet will be a necessity for walking directions and such. I’ll have a backup eSIM plan at the ready.

Conclusions

I am no stranger to eSIM plans. I’ve used multiple providers over the course of years. They are very helpful when it comes to international travel, giving you the capability to communicate at generally reasonable prices. GigSky takes this all to a whole new level by adding cruise ships to the mix. Using GigSky vs actually using a cruise ship cell connection could save you thousands of dollars. Using GigSky vs purchasing a Wi-Fi package could save you a considerable amount of money as well. Simply put… GigSky is revolutionary.

Use coupon code cruisepacklist to save when you buy a GigSky eSIM package!

Smartphone Apps

GigSky: eSIM & Unlimited Data for iPhone
GigSky: Buy eSIM Online for Android

FREE Trial

GigSky also offers a free 100 MB plan so you can try out their services! Note that the free trial plans does not include cruise ship coverage. However, it’s a great chance to see how GigSky works and especially helpful if you’ve never used an eSIM plan on your phone.

Related: Hands on Review Airalo eSIM

Related: Using Your Cell Phone Onboard with WiFi Calling!

My iPhone with Royal Caribbean Adventure of the Seas Royal Promenade int eh Background. See “VZW Wi-Fi”

Related: Waterproof Phone Case

Related: Pelican’s IP68 Waterproof Phone Case – affiliate link, note that multiple variations of this product may be available, as such a different version may appear at this link

Setting Up Your Own Wireless WiFi Hotspot on Your Next Cruise!

This post may contain affiliate links. We may make a commission when you use our links. This will never cost you extra. Thank you for supporting Cruise Packing List!

All information provided is deemed accurate at time of publishing, but is not guaranteed and should be independently verified. top:gigskyreview tag:tpru

8 Tips to Make the Most Of Limited Outlets On Your Next Cruise

Lack of power solutions in cruise ship cabins

Many cruise cabins have a common problem… lack of outlets. This has generally gotten better with newer ships, but can still be an issue. Even newer ships that have more cabin outlets, the outlets can be placed in such a way as to limit their usability. If two outlets are too close together… you can only use one.

This article outlines some ways to stretch the power resources that are available in your next cruise ship cabin.

Related: Important Information for Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruisers

Royal Caribbean Bans Multi-Plug Adapters and Extension Cords!

#1 Use the 220 Outlet(s)

To accommodate European travelers cruise lines will often include one or more 220 volt outlets. If you’re used to using three prong 120 volt electronics this outlet will most likely go unused.

One way to stretch out the outlets on your next cruise is to… use the 220 volt outlet.

What style is the 220 volt outlet on cruise ships?

European Type C seems to be the standard style on cruise ships. This may vary, but it seems to be fairly standard.

Some Adapters and Devices to Consider:

European Travel Plug Adapter, TESSAN International Power Plug with 2 USB, Type C Outlet Adaptor Charger for US to Most of Europe EU Iceland Spain Italy France Germany – 1 three prong outlet + two USB ports – Hands on Review
Two Outlet Version: European Travel Plug Adapter Converter | TESSAN International Power Plug Converter with 2 USB | Type C Outlet Adaptor Charger | for US to Most of Europe EU Iceland Spain Italy France Germany – Hands on Review
[3-Pack] European Travel Plug Adapter, VINTAR International Power Plug Adapter with 2 American Outlets- 2 in 1 Travel Essentials to France, Germany, Greece, Italy, Israel, Spain (Type C)
Ceptics Europe Travel Adapter, Ultra Compact Dual USB Power Plug – for European Type C – 3 Inputs – iPhone, Laptop, Galaxy, Cell Phones, Camera Chargers, iWatch & More – CTU-9C
220v Travel Night Light – This night light fits into compatible 220v outlets and as a bonus gets you a USB wall charger.
European Wall Charger, Vifigen 2-Pack USB
Search Amazon for “type c outlet adapter” to shop around

Cruise Ship Power Solutions – Making Use of the 220 Volt Cabin Outlet On Your Next Cruise

Hands on Review: TESSAN International Power Plug with USB… Use the 220 Outlet on Your Next Cruise!

#2 Use An Approved Power Strip

Pictured: Cruise Essentials Power Strip USB – Flat Plug Power Strip with 3 Outlets 3 USB Ports(1 USB C PD20W), 5ft Braided Extension Cord, Compact for Cruise Ship, Travel, Home and Dorm

Most cruise lines allow the use of certain power strips. Generally speaking one thing you want to look for is a power strip that DOES NOT offer surge protection. Double check with your cruise line for specifics on what’s allowed on your ship.

#3 Use an Outlet Extender

Pictured: Multi Plug Outlet Extender with USB Outlets, Power Strip Non Surge Protector Electric Outlet Splitter with 3 USB Wall Charger (1 USB C), Multiple Outlet Expander for Cruise, Dorm, Travel, Home, Office – affiliate link, note that multiple variations of this product may be available, as such a different version may appear at this link

A similar solution as using a power strip, but more compact and outlet extender to split one power outlet into multiple outlets. Some include USB outlets.

#4 Use a Rechargeable Night Light

Using a rechargeable night light means no outlet is taken up most of the time. This is particularly helpful for bathrooms as those usually have 0 outlets.

Hands on Review: Auvon Rechargeable Night Lights + The Problem with Cruise Ship Bathrooms at Night

All About Night Lights for Your Next Cruise!

#5 Use a USB Night Light

USB night lights plug into a USB port. That means no outlet taken up. They could go on a laptop, USB wall charger or power bank.

#6 Check the Phone

Many newer or remodeled cruise ships offer a USB charging port on the phone. This is the phone that was in our cabin on Royal Caribbean’s Odyssey of the Seas.

#7 Use Rechargeable… Everything

Pictured: Cruise Ship Approved Travel Fan

When you’re making decisions on cruise gear considering opting for rechargeable items. These don’t constantly take up an outlet or USB port and when charged, they aren’t tethered to wherever an outlet happens to be.

#8 Use a Rechargeable Power Bank

Pictured: Anker Portable Charger

Using a rechargeable power bank gives you a de facto outlet (at least for USB devices) anywhere in your cabin. Beyond charging you can power loads of other USB compatible gear anywhere in your cabin.

Product specifications can change. Double check your product before use.

For lots more about cruise packing including some solutions for the outlet problem check out our complete packing list.

This post may contain affiliate links. We may make a commission when you use our links. This will never cost you extra. Thank you for supporting Cruise Packing List!

Waterproof Phone Pouches, 2 Pack

Hiearcool Waterproof Phone Pouch, Waterproof Phone Case for iPhone 16 15 14 13 Pro Max, IPX8 Cellphone Dry Bag Beach Cruise Ship Essentials 2Pack-8.3″

More Info

From the product description, check product page for current description, price and availability:

BEACH ESSENTIALS-SUPERIOR WATERPROOF PROTECTION: Certified IPX8 waterproof with Hiearcool’s triple layer lock-down technology provides complete protection against water, snow, dust, and sand. Ensure your cell phone stays dry
CASE FRIENDLY: With a size of 8.3 inches, the waterproof phone pouch can fit most cell phones with or without a case, providing double insurance to your phone
RESPONSIVE TOUCH SCREEN: The Hiearcool waterproof phone pouch is made of upgraded TPU material that provides excellent response sensitivity while using your phone, including face ID unlock and calling
CLEAR PICTURE UNDERWATER-CRUISE SHIP ESSENTIALS: With high transmittance transparency technology, this phone pouch provides a crystal clear photo capture of the underwater world
ADJUSTABLE LANYARD: Comes with a detachable lanyard from 13.8 to 21 inches providing various choices for the length you prefer—lifestyle by crossing your body or around your neck
TRAVEL ESSENTIALS: Ideal partner for various activities, such as beach playing, water park, swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, rafting, or even taking a shower with your phone in hand

Hiearcool Waterproof Phone Pouch, Waterproof Phone Case for iPhone 16 15 14 13 Pro Max, IPX8 Cellphone Dry Bag Beach Cruise Ship Essentials 2Pack-8.3″ – affiliate link, note that multiple variations of this product may be available, as such a different version may appear at this link

For lots more about what you should pack for your next cruise check out our complete packing list.

This post may contain affiliate links. We may make a commission when you use our links. This will never cost you extra. Thank you for supporting Cruise Packing List!

All About Night Lights for Your Next Cruise!

Cruise Ship Power Solutions – Making Use of the 220 Volt Cabin Outlet On Your Next Cruise

DEAL! Four Apple AirTags – on sale for $64.99, $16.25 each!… track your luggage on your next cruise!

Photo from: Do AirTags Work on Cruise Ships?

4 x Apple AirTags

More Info

From the product description, check product page for current description, price and availability:

Keep track of and find your items alongside friends and devices in the Find My app
Simple one-tap setup instantly connects AirTag with your iPhone or iPad
Play a sound on the built-in speaker to help find your things, or just ask Siri for help
Precision Finding with Ultra Wideband technology leads you right to your nearby AirTag (on select iPhone models)
Find items further away with the help of hundreds of millions of Apple devices in the Find My network

What are Other’s Saying? Search this product’s Amazon reviews for “cruise” – may include reviews for other sizes or variations

We use AirTags on our travel backpacks, carry ons and checked bags and love them. It’s really nice to tell where your bag is and know that it’s made in on the plane or ship. Note that these (at least AirTags) don’t work perfectly at sea. If you see that your bags are 20 miles behind you in the middle of the ocean… don’t worry they’re probably still in your cabin. If you’re not an Apple user, consider Tile Trackers

See: Do AirTags work on Cruise Ships? – for more infuriation

For lots more about what you should pack for your next cruise check out our complete packing list.

10/11 9 AM Central: These are on sale for just $64.99. Prices and availability can change quickly. Check product page for current info.

Apple AirTag 4 Pack – affiliate link, note that multiple variations of this product may be available, as such a different version may appear at this link

What size luggage should I take on my cruise?

Related: Do AirTags Work on Cruise Ships?

Do AirTags Work on Cruise Ships?

What size luggage should I take on my cruise?

This post may contain affiliate links. We may make a commission when you use our links. This will never cost you extra. Thank you for supporting Cruise Packing List!

Price, promotions and availability can change quickly. Check the product page for current price, description and availability.

Pelican IP68 Rated Waterproof Phone Pouches, 2 Count – on sale for $23.99, $12 each

Pelican 2 Pack Marine – IP68 Waterproof Phone Pouch

More Info

From the product description, check product page for current description, price and availability:

IP68 Certified Waterproof Protection: A 3.3 feet/1 meter IP68 certified professional floating waterproof phone pouch is perfect for swimming pools, beach, kayaking, fishing, surfing, sailing, skiing, boating, snorkeling, tubing, rafting, showering, sauna, other water park activities and to store your ID; This waterproof pouch will keep your phone full functional and 100% protected from water making it one of the best cruise, vacation and travel essentials / accessories to have (Best for Phone Screen Sizes Up to 6.1 Inches)
Precise Design & Sensitive Touch: Pelican Marine Series waterproof case has an innovative design for easy access to side buttons; Made with high-quality soft TPU material and a Clear Window design on the front for delicate touch and quick response making it easy to see videos and check your email
Fully Protective: This phone pouch comes with a detachable cell phone lanyard that can be worn around your neck or wrist to easily access your phone or ID, allowing you to enjoy your adventures to the fullest; Secure Lock Mechanism allows you to firmly lock and unlock the phone pouch, keeping it completely sealed underwater
Underwater Photography: Take pictures anywhere, anytime! With the transparent material, you can have direct and proper access to the touch screen and camera; Sensitive touch allows you to use your phone as an underwater camera, to take sharp and clear photos and videos without removing your device from the waterproof phone bag
Package Contents: 2 Unit of Pelican Waterproof Phone Pouch Floating Case – Marine Series Black (Regular Size) + (2) Detachable Keychain Lanyard – Hi-Vis Yellow; 1-Year Warranty

Prime Exclusive: As of this posting, this may be exclusively available to Amazon Prime Members. Amazon Prime has a lot of great benefits. Get a Free Trial of Amazon Prime. Shipping is also free for Prime Members. Check the product page for current price, description and availability.

10/6 8 AM Central: These are on sale for $23.99. Prices, promotions and availability can change quickly. Check product page for current info and availability.

Pelican 2 Pack Marine – IP68 Waterproof Phone Pouch (Regular Size)-Floating Waterproof Phone Case For iPhone 15 Pro Max/ 14 Pro Max/ 13 Pro Max/ 12/ S24 – Detachable Lanyard – Black / Hi-Vis Yellow – affiliate link, note that multiple variations of this product may be available, as such a different version may appear at this link

This post may contain affiliate links. We may make a commission when you use our links. This will never cost you extra. Thank you for supporting Cruise Packing List!

Price, promotions and availability can change quickly. Check the product page for current price, description and availability.

Deal! Use the 220 Outlet on Your Next Cruise… 65 Watt USB Charger European Type C – on sale for $8.99 (I paid more)

Picture from my Hands on Review of this great charging block

European USB C Charger Block, PD20W QC3.0 Fast Charging Multi Ports, 2 USB C 3 USB A Europe Plug Compatible for iPhone 15 14 13 12 11 Pro Max XS XR X SE Plus, Samsung S22 S21 A13, Phones

More Info

From the product description, check product page for current description, price and availability:

US to Europe USB Plug Charger: Type C plug adapter can work in France, Germany, Greece, Italy, Spain, Hungary, Portugal, Poland, Netherlands, Jordan, Israel, Turkey, Iceland, Austria, Finland, and more (Tips: Some Europe countries may need Type G adapter, such as UK,Ireland, Scotland, please check before travel)
65W 6.6A European Travel Charger: This European plug adapter with 5 USB ports can charge up to 6.6A total Max, 3.0A Max each port. Ideal for cell phone, tablet, earphone, etc
PD20W/QC3.0 and PD15W/3.1A: When will fast charging be supported? When you use USB C port of PD 20W or USB A port of QC3.0 separately. If you use these 2 USB ports at the same time, fast charging is not supported. In addition, 15W USB C and 2 USB A are also provided, which can meet the charging speed of ordinary electronic devices
Compact Size and Indicator: This USB travel adapter for Europe is mini size: 3.9in*2.1in*1.1in and it is suitable for travel or cruise ship. The indicator light can let you know whether it is working and will not disturb your sleep.
Safe and Reliable: Intelligent circuit design protects against short circuiting, over-heating, over-current, and over-charging. When the battery is fully charged, charging will stop

What are Other’s Saying? Search this product’s Amazon reviews for “cruise” – may include reviews for other sizes or variations

This will allow you to make use of a European Type C outlet on your next cruise! Because it’s a USB charger there’s no need to check for AC 220/240 compatibility. That’s a requirement for many of the adapters featured on CPL.For lots more about this see: Cruise Ship Power Solutions – Making Use of the 220 Volt Cabin Outlet On Your Next Cruise

9/24 10 AM Central: This is on sale for just $8.99 (I paid $14.99). Prices, promotions and availability can change quickly. Check product page for current info and availability.

For lots more about what you should pack for your next cruise check out our complete packing list.

Cruise Ship Power Solutions – Making Use of the 220 Volt Cabin Outlet On Your Next Cruise

This post may contain affiliate links. We may make a commission when you use our links. This will never cost you extra. Thank you for supporting Cruise Packing List!

Why a Power Bank is a must pack item for trips to Europe

Pictured: Anker 621 Magnetic Portable Charger (MagGo), 5,000mAh Wireless Power Bank

We just returned for our first European cruise. It was… fabulous. We spent several days in London ahead of the cruise. Visited Hamburg Germany, Bruges Belgium, Copenhagen Denmark and Oslo Norway on the cruise. Finally we spent two days in Paris prior to coming home. It was amazing!

In our extensive preparations for this trip we spent a lot of time deciding what to pack. We wanted to keep the size and weight of our luggage down to make the trip easier. We cut deep leaving a lot of things behind that we would normally take for something like a Caribbean cruise.

When we got to the subject of a power bank I said to my wife… we don’t need it. My laptop functions as a power bank. The plane will have outlets and everyplace we go will have outlets. Let’s save the weight and leave it behind.

She (very wisely) said… no, I’m taking it.

Fast forward to day one of our time in London and it’s very clear my phone is not going to make it through the day. I switched to low power mode and eventually moved to her phone for directions, trying to saving the last bits of battery on my phone to be able to access tickets and our itinerary.

We were constantly using phones for directions, to view our itinerary and to access tickets. I think there’s something else at play too. Something about a US phone being in Europe. I think my phone was constantly looking for Verizon towers to save Verizon roaming fees. That’s a theory, but whatever was happening, I went through battery at an astounding rate.

After the first day, I carried out battery bank every single day and used it every single day. I’m going to call a power bank a must have for European trips.

Anker 621 Magnetic Portable Charger (MagGo), 5,000mAh Wireless Power Bank with USB-C Cable, Magsafe-Compatible Battery Pack for iPhone 16/15/14/13/12 Series

For lots more about what you should pack for your next cruise check out our complete packing list.

This post may contain affiliate links. We may make a commission when you use our links. This will never cost you extra. Thank you for supporting Cruise Packing List!

Cruise Ship Power Solutions – Making Use of the 220 Volt Cabin Outlet On Your Next Cruise

All About Night Lights for Your Next Cruise!

Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruisers… Use the 220 Outlet on Your Next Cruise, 4 adapters – on sale for… $3.99, $1 each

For lots more about this see: Cruise Ship Power Solutions – Making Use of the 220 Volt Cabin Outlet On Your Next Cruise

There are lots of cool options available that get you a North American style outlet (or multiple outlets) along with USB ports.

A couple examples…

European Travel Plug Adapter, TESSAN International Power Plug with 2 USB, Type C Outlet Adaptor Charger for US to Most of Europe EU Iceland Spain Italy France Germany – affiliate link, note that multiple variations of this product may be available, as such a different version may appear at this link
Two Outlet Version: European Travel Plug Adapter Converter | TESSAN International Power Plug Converter with 2 USB | Type C Outlet Adaptor Charger | for US to Most of Europe EU Iceland Spain Italy France Germany

See my review of both of those for more information.

The problem for Royal Caribbean Cruisers… Recently Royal announced that multi-plug adapters are banned.

My current understanding of that rule is that multi-USB charging blocks are allowed. But anything that has an AC outlet on it must have only an AC outlet and nothing else.

As far as compliant European converters, those are kind of hard to find since many of them include multiple outlets and most of the times include one or more USB ports. After all… why not do that?

Anyway, I have found an adapter that should work with Royal’s new rules. It is and European to C to single North American style outlet with no USB ports.

What are Other’s Saying? Search this product’s Amazon reviews for “cruise” – may include reviews for other sizes or variations

8/4 8:30 AM Central: These are on sale for just $3.99. Prices, promotions and availability can change quickly. Check product page for current info and availability.

For lots more about what you should pack for your next cruise check out our complete packing list.

Cruise Ship Power Solutions – Making Use of the 220 Volt Cabin Outlet On Your Next Cruise

This post may contain affiliate links. We may make a commission when you use our links. This will never cost you extra. Thank you for supporting Cruise Packing List!

MagSafe Wallets, 2 Pack – on sale for $4.98, $2.49 each + Why are these so great for cruising?

Pack of 2 – Magnetic Wallet Compatible with MagSafe for iPhone 16 15 14 13 12 Pro Max Plus Model, None-Cutout Mag 3 Safe Card Holder Stick on for Apple Cell Phone, Black Blue

More Info

From the product description, check product page for current description, price and availability:

Compatibility: Our magnetic wallet is compatible with iPhone 16 Pro Max, iPhone 16 Pro, iPhone 16 Plus, iPhone 16, iPhone 15 Pro Max, iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Plus, iPhone 15, iPhone 14 Pro Max, iPhone 14 Pro, iPhone 14 Plus, iPhone 14, iPhone 13 Pro Max, iPhone 13 Pro, iPhone 13, iPhone 13 mini, iPhone 12 Pro Max, iPhone 12 Pro, iPhone 12, iPhone 12 mini. It also works with MagSafe cases
Strong magnet: Effortlessly snap the wallet into place on the back of your iPhone with its strong magnet feature. It’s compatible with MagSafe and allows for easy attachment and faster wireless charging
Premium workmanship: Crafted with excellent workmanship, the wallet boasts a premium synthetic leather exterior and anti-slip interior lining. It maintains its shape and ensures cards won’t slip out
Minimalistic design: Our wallet is designed with both style and function in mind. Slim fit allows your iPhone and wallet to slide in or out of pockets easily, eliminating the need for a bulky wallet

If you have a MagSafe compatible phone these are super duper helpful when cruising.

7/4 8:30 AM Central: These are on sale for just $4.98. Prices, promotions and availability can change quickly. Check product page for current info and availability.

Pack of 2 – Magnetic Wallet Compatible with MagSafe for iPhone 16 15 14 13 12 Pro Max Plus Model, None-Cutout Mag 3 Safe Card Holder Stick on for Apple Cell Phone, Black Blue – affiliate link, note that multiple variations of this product may be available, as such a different version may appear at this link

For lots more about what you should pack for your next cruise check out our complete packing list.

See: Problem Solved… MagSafe Wallet for Your Ship Card!

This post may contain affiliate links. We may make a commission when you use our links. This will never cost you extra. Thank you for supporting Cruise Packing List!

All About Night Lights for Your Next Cruise!

Cruise Ship Power Solutions – Making Use of the 220 Volt Cabin Outlet On Your Next Cruise

Waterproof Phone Pouches, 2 Pack

Hiearcool Waterproof Phone Pouch, Waterproof Phone Case for iPhone 16 15 14 13 Pro Max, IPX8 Cellphone Dry Bag Beach Cruise Ship Essentials 2Pack-8.3″

More Info

From the product description, check product page for current description, price and availability:

BEACH ESSENTIALS-SUPERIOR WATERPROOF PROTECTION: Certified IPX8 waterproof with Hiearcool’s triple layer lock-down technology provides complete protection against water, snow, dust, and sand. Ensure your cell phone stays dry
CASE FRIENDLY: With a size of 8.3 inches, the waterproof phone pouch can fit most cell phones with or without a case, providing double insurance to your phone
RESPONSIVE TOUCH SCREEN: The Hiearcool waterproof phone pouch is made of upgraded TPU material that provides excellent response sensitivity while using your phone, including face ID unlock and calling
CLEAR PICTURE UNDERWATER-CRUISE SHIP ESSENTIALS: With high transmittance transparency technology, this phone pouch provides a crystal clear photo capture of the underwater world
ADJUSTABLE LANYARD: Comes with a detachable lanyard from 13.8 to 21 inches providing various choices for the length you prefer—lifestyle by crossing your body or around your neck
TRAVEL ESSENTIALS: Ideal partner for various activities, such as beach playing, water park, swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, rafting, or even taking a shower with your phone in hand

For lots more about what you should pack for your next cruise check out our complete packing list.

This post may contain affiliate links. We may make a commission when you use our links. This will never cost you extra. Thank you for supporting Cruise Packing List!

All About Night Lights for Your Next Cruise!

Cruise Ship Power Solutions – Making Use of the 220 Volt Cabin Outlet On Your Next Cruise

Check Current Price and Availability:

Conclusions

Check Current Price and Availability:

Does MagSafe work with Android phones?

Related: Using Your Cell Phone Onboard with WiFi Calling!

Related: FREE… Royal Caribbean Perfect Day at CocoCay Phone Wallpaper

Related: Setting up a WiFi Hotspot on your Next Cruise!

Related: Hands on Review: Airalo e-SIM – use your phone internationally!

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WiFi Calling on a Cruise Ship: How to Stay Connected Without Roaming Fees

In This Post

Onboard Cruise Ship Cellular

Related:

Using Cruise Line Cellular

Voice and Data

Using Texts To Communicate While Onboard

Related: One of my Must-Pack Items for Every Cruise!

Use Airplane Mode

Full Phone Functionality with Wireless Internet… WiFi Calling!

Enabling WiFi Calling

More About WiFi Calling from Carriers

Important: Test WiFi Calling Before Leaving Home

Does WiFi Calling Cost Extra?

FAQ: WiFi Calling on a Cruise Ship

Can I use WiFi calling on a cruise ship?

Do I need a cruise internet package for WiFi calling?

Is WiFi calling free on a cruise?

Will I get charged roaming fees if I use WiFi calling?

Should I keep my phone in airplane mode on a cruise?

Can I send normal text messages with WiFi calling?

Does WiFi calling work on all cruise lines?

Does WiFi calling drain battery faster?

Do I need to activate WiFi calling before my cruise?

What happens if WiFi calling disconnects?

Related: Setting Up Your Own Wireless WiFi Hotspot on Your Next Cruise!

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More About Travel Routers:

Setting Up Your Own Wireless WiFi Hotspot on Your Next Cruise!

Related: Using Your Cell Phone Onboard with WiFi Calling!

Related: Use the 220 Outlet on Your Next Cruise

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But First… Read Cruise Lines Terms and Conditions

Next… What Are We Doing Again?

Option 1: Travel Router

Some Travel Router Options:

Option 2: Connectify Hot Spot

Other Options to Save on Internet on Your Next Cruise

What Else?

Related: Using Your Cell Phone Onboard with WiFi Calling!

Related: Use the 220 Outlet on Your Next Cruise

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Cruise On Universal Power Adapter

Why This Is Handy for Cruises

What to Look For in a “Cruise-Friendly” Power Adapter

Best Uses (Cruise + Beyond)

Tips to Avoid Common Travel Power Mistakes

From the product description, check product page for current description, price and availability:

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Check Current Price & Availability:

Attention Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruises:

Related:

Conclusions

Also Consider:

What Are Other’s Saying?

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Related: All About Night Lights from Your Next Cruise

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Why a Backup SIM is a Requirement for Foreign Travel

Jump To:

eSim Providers To Consider:

When Your “Guaranteed” International Plan Fails

Why a Backup SIM (Especially an eSIM) Matters

Situations Where Connectivity Really Matters

Why This Matters Even More for Cruises

It’s Also Okay to Disconnect (And That’s Great)