Category Archives: Travel Hacks

The Two Most Important Things When Traveling Internationally

Two Most Important Things When Traveling

The Two Most Important Things When Traveling Internationally: Your Passport and Money

Packing lists tend to focus on clothing, chargers, toiletries, adapters and other useful travel gear. Those things can make a trip easier, but most are replaceable.

When you strip international travel down to its essentials, two things matter more than almost everything else: control of your passport and reliable access to money.

Your passport comes first because it is the one essential item money cannot immediately replace. It establishes your identity and citizenship while allowing you to cross international borders and return home.

Money comes second because it is the universal travel problem solver. It can buy replacement clothing, transportation, lodging, food, a new phone, medical care and help with the cost of replacing a lost passport.

Your phone and essential medication also deserve special attention. A phone has become a central hub for communication, directions, payments, reservations and account access. Medication may be personally more important than anything else on this list, although many replacement situations can ultimately be addressed with money, documentation and medical assistance.

Stuff happens. Wallets are lost, bags are misplaced, cards stop working and pickpockets target distracted travelers. The goal is to make sure that one lost wallet, stolen bag, misplaced document or missing phone cannot disable your entire trip.

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Why Your Passport and Money Come First

A useful way to rank travel essentials is to ask two questions:

  1. What happens if I lose this item?
  2. Can another resource solve the problem?

Your passport ranks first because there is no true immediate substitute for it. A copy can help with replacement, and money can cover fees, transportation and emergency lodging, but neither allows you to cross a border or board an international flight in place of the original document.

Money ranks second because it can solve or reduce most other travel problems. If your luggage disappears, money can buy clothing and toiletries. If your phone breaks, money can buy a replacement. If you miss a train or your hotel reservation falls apart, money gives you other options.

Your phone earns honorable mention because it may provide access to maps, reservations, communication, digital payments and account authentication. Medication follows closely behind and may personally rank first for travelers who depend on medically essential treatments.

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Number One: Your Passport

United States passport for international travel

Your passport is the most important individual item for international travel. A lost passport does not necessarily end a trip, but it can cause delays, added expenses, visits to an embassy or consulate and major itinerary changes.

Money can pay for transportation to an embassy, passport photos, fees and replacement lodging. It cannot authorize you to cross a border without the required travel document.

A Passport Card Is a Useful Secondary ID

A U.S. passport card can be useful in limited circumstances, but it is not valid for international air travel and should not be treated as a complete replacement for a passport book.

Even with that limitation, I recommend carrying one when possible. It is a quality backup identification document that takes up very little room and may be helpful if your passport book or wallet is lost.

Make Multiple Passport Copies

The U.S. Department of State recommends making copies of important travel documents and leaving one with a trusted friend or relative.

A practical passport backup system can include:

  • A printed copy carried separately from the original
  • A secure digital copy available from your phone or computer
  • A copy stored securely with a trusted person at home

A photocopy does not permit international travel. Its value is in providing your passport number and identifying information that may make replacement easier.

Consider keeping the passport copy in a secure digital travel file along with your visas, travel insurance, reservations, emergency contacts and prescription information. Do not depend entirely on internet access; a securely protected offline copy may also be helpful.

Store the Original Safely and Consistently

Avoid repeatedly moving your passport between pockets, bags and different locations. Choose a consistent location and return it there immediately after use.

When you do not need to carry it, a hotel or cruise cabin safe may be appropriate. When you need it with you, use a secure travel wallet, concealed pouch, zipped interior compartment or secure zipped pocket.

Do not place your passport in an unattended bag or carry it loosely with cash, cards and receipts.

Consider a passport holder that is designed to hold an Apple AirTag or similar tracker. This can provide another layer of protection, but it should not replace secure passport storage.

Know How to Get Help

Before departure, identify the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate at your destination. The State Department provides instructions for replacing a lost or stolen passport abroad.

A passport copy, another form of identification, your itinerary and information about where the passport was lost may help with the replacement process. Consular personnel may still be able to assist when every document is not available.

U.S. travelers can also consider enrolling in the free Smart Traveler Enrollment Program, commonly known as STEP. It can provide embassy messages and make it easier for officials to contact you or your emergency contact during certain emergencies.

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Number Two: Reliable Access to Money

International travel money strategy

The most important financial travel item is not one particular card or stack of cash. It is reliable access to money through more than one method.

A wallet containing every card you own is not a backup system. It is a collection of payment methods that can all disappear at the same time.

Access to money creates options. It may allow you to take a taxi, book an emergency hotel, replace a damaged suitcase, obtain medical care or purchase a new ticket after a cancellation. Some solutions may be expensive, but access to funds can prevent a disruption from becoming a full-scale emergency.

Carry Cards From More Than One Issuer

Travel with at least two cards from different financial institutions when possible. Ideally, your backup should not rely on the same bank account, issuer or payment network as your primary card.

This protects against a card being lost, declined, frozen because of suspected fraud or rejected by a particular ATM or merchant.

Before departure, confirm that your cards can be used internationally and check whether your issuer accepts or requires travel notifications.

Keep Payment Methods Separate

Keep your primary card in your wallet and at least one backup somewhere separate and secure.

That could mean:

  • One card in your wallet and another in a secure travel organizer
  • One card carried by you and another carried by your travel partner
  • A backup card stored in your hotel or cruise cabin safe
  • Emergency cash stored separately from your daily spending money

The objective is simple: losing one wallet should not eliminate every way you have to pay.

Strongly Recommended: Wise Travel Account

Wise Travel Card

A Wise account and card can be funded with a limited travel balance rather than providing direct access to your primary checking account. Wise can also be used to hold destination currency, make purchases and withdraw money from compatible ATMs.

If your Wise card is lost or stolen, you can freeze it and generate a new digital card. This makes Wise a useful primary or backup payment method that can act as a firewall of sorts between travel transactions and your everyday accounts.

For a limited time, get a fee-free transfer of up to $600 USD when you use my referral link.

See: Using Wise for Travel: Convert Currency, Spend Abroad & Protect Your Everyday Card.

Carry Some Emergency Cash

Cards are widely useful, but they are not infallible. Cash can help when a payment terminal is offline, a taxi does not accept cards, an ATM is unavailable or a small business requires local currency.

The appropriate amount depends on the destination. Avoid carrying an unnecessarily large sum, and divide your emergency cash between secure locations.

Use Digital Wallets

Apple Pay for international travel

Adding eligible cards to Apple Pay, Google Pay or another supported digital wallet provides another way to pay if a physical card is damaged or unavailable. When traveling with a partner, consider setting up payment options on both phones.

We have found digital wallets to be one of our main payment methods when traveling in Europe. I primarily use my Apple Watch for payments. Using it means I rarely need to take out my wallet, reducing the chance that the wallet will be dropped, misplaced or exposed to a pickpocket.

Backups to the Backups

A trusted person at home should know how to reach you and may be able to transfer money or help coordinate assistance during a serious emergency.

The U.S. Department of State publishes information about emergency financial assistance for U.S. citizens abroad. This should be viewed as a last-resort resource rather than a replacement for your own backup plan.

Strategic Money Plan Summary

  • Set up a Wise account and card. It offers several useful travel features and can act as a buffer between travel spending and your everyday financial accounts.
  • Carry multiple credit cards from different issuers and, when possible, different payment networks.
  • Carry a small amount of emergency cash in the destination’s local currency.
  • Keep backup cards and cash separate from your primary wallet, such as in another secure bag, a hotel safe or with your travel partner. Make sure you and your travel partner know where the backups are stored.
  • Set up Apple Pay, Google Pay or another supported digital wallet on each traveler’s eligible phone or wearable device.

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Honorable Mention: Your Phone

Your phone is not as irreplaceable as your passport or as universally useful as money, but it has become one of the most important tools carried by an international traveler. Beyond communication, we rely on our phones for directions, payments, boarding passes, reservations, authentication codes and more.

Losing a phone can therefore create several problems at once. You may lose your primary communication device while also losing access to payment methods, authentication codes, directions and important travel records.

Money can usually buy a replacement phone, which is why the phone does not outrank reliable access to funds. The immediate challenge is regaining access to your phone number, accounts and travel information.

Build a Phone Backup Plan

  • Use a screen lock and device tracking. Make sure Find My iPhone, Find My Device or a similar service is enabled before departure.
  • Back up important information. Store reservations, emergency contacts and document copies somewhere you can reach from another device.
  • Protect account access. Save backup authentication codes, confirm that account recovery information is current and know how to freeze or lock your payment cards. Do not make your phone the only way to access banking, email and travel accounts.
  • Download essential information. Keep offline maps, reservations and important contact details available when internet service is unavailable.
  • Carry backup power. A phone with a dead battery is temporarily almost as useless as a lost phone.
  • Have a connectivity backup. A second eSIM, physical SIM or another service can help if your primary carrier does not work as expected.
  • Save important contact information separately. Keep card issuer, mobile carrier and emergency contact information somewhere you can access without your phone.
  • Leverage your travel partner’s phone. When traveling with a spouse or trusted companion, distribute important capabilities between both phones. Make sure the loss of one phone does not eliminate every way to authenticate accounts, retrieve reservations or communicate.

Related:

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Also Essential: Medication

Medication deserves special attention because it can be just as important as money or a passport for an individual traveler.

For someone who relies on insulin, seizure medication, an epinephrine auto-injector or another medically essential treatment, medication may personally rank first. This hierarchy is a general travel framework, not a judgment about anyone’s medical needs.

Medication ranks slightly lower in the broadest sense because many lost-medication situations can usually be addressed through a physician, pharmacy, clinic, hospital or travel insurance assistance service. Those solutions generally require access to money.

Replacement is not guaranteed, however. Brand names, formulations and dosages vary between countries. Some medications may be unavailable, restricted or classified as controlled substances. That is why “I can just buy more” should never be the entire plan.

Medication Backup Steps

  • Keep essential medication with you. Do not pack medication you cannot easily replace exclusively in checked luggage.
  • Bring extra doses. Carry enough for the scheduled trip plus a reasonable reserve for delays, cancellations or lost doses.
  • Retain original labels. Original containers can identify the medication and show that it was prescribed to you.
  • Carry documentation. Bring a prescription copy, generic medication name, dosage, prescriber contact information and any necessary doctor’s letter.
  • Check local laws. Verify medication restrictions for every destination and transit country.
  • Plan for special storage. Confirm how refrigerated or temperature-sensitive medication will be protected during transit and at your destination.

See: CDC guidance for traveling abroad with medicine.

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Quick International Travel Checklist

Before leaving the country:

  • Confirm your passport’s expiration date and destination validity requirements.
  • Create printed and secure digital passport copies.
  • Store the original passport in a consistent, secure location.
  • Carry at least two payment cards from different issuers.
  • Keep cards and emergency cash in separate locations.
  • Set up Wise or another independent travel payment option.
  • Add eligible cards to your digital wallet.
  • Enable your phone’s screen lock, tracking and backup features.
  • Save offline maps, reservations and backup authentication codes.
  • Pack essential medication in your carry-on with extra doses.
  • Carry prescription information and verify destination restrictions.

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Final Thoughts

Most things packed for an international trip are conveniences. Your passport and reliable access to money are infrastructure.

Your passport preserves your ability to identify yourself, cross borders and return home. Money gives you the ability to respond when plans fall apart and can solve or reduce nearly every other ordinary travel problem.

Your phone follows as an honorable mention because it now provides access to communication, directions, reservations, payments and important accounts. Medication also deserves special attention because it may be essential to your health, even though replacement is sometimes possible with money, documentation and medical assistance.

The real travel hack is redundancy. Protect your passport and maintain secure copies. Carry more than one way to pay and keep those methods in separate locations. Back up your phone and avoid making it the only way to access important information or accounts. Bring extra medication and the documentation needed to replace it.

You cannot eliminate every travel risk, but you can prevent one lost wallet, stolen bag, misplaced document or missing phone from taking down the entire trip.

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!

Information in this article was believed to be accurate at the time of publication. Travel requirements, government policies, financial services, promotions and medication regulations can change. Confirm current details with the appropriate government agency, financial institution, medical provider or service provider before traveling. hack:intmoney tag:tpr

Using Wise for Travel: Convert Currency, Spend Abroad & Protect Your Everyday Card

Wise Travel Card

Using Wise for Travel: Convert Currency, Spend Abroad & Protect Your Everyday Card

Traveling internationally usually means dealing with exchange rates, foreign transaction fees and the occasional need for local cash. Wise combines a multi-currency account with an optional debit card, giving travelers a safe and easy way to manage money while abroad.

You can add dollars to your Wise account, convert some of that money into your destination’s currency before your trip, and then spend from that balance using the Wise card. You can also leave your money in dollars and allow Wise to convert it automatically when you make a purchase.

Wise is not necessarily a replacement for a good travel credit card, but it can be a useful addition to your international travel setup. It can also create a helpful layer of separation between travel purchases and the debit card connected directly to your everyday checking account.

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What Is Wise?

Wise, formerly known as TransferWise, is an international money service that allows users to hold, convert, send and spend money in multiple currencies.

The Wise Multi-Currency Card is a debit card connected directly to your Wise balances. Wise supports holding dozens of currencies, and its card can be used in many places where debit cards are accepted.

Because it is a debit card, purchases are deducted from the money already in your Wise account. There is no credit card bill, interest charge or revolving balance.

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Why Wise Can Be Useful for Travel

  • Hold your destination’s currency: Convert dollars into the currency used at your destination before traveling.
  • Convert on your terms: Watch exchange rates and convert money for an upcoming trip when you feel the rate is favorable.
  • See the conversion cost: Wise shows the exchange rate and applicable conversion fee before you complete the exchange.
  • Avoid a traditional foreign transaction fee: Wise does not add a separate fee simply because you use the card outside the United States.
  • Use automatic currency conversion: If you do not hold the currency being charged, Wise can convert money from an available balance.
  • Withdraw local currency: The physical card can be used at compatible ATMs.
  • Use a digital card: Eligible users can add a Wise card to Apple Pay or Google Pay.
  • Manage cards easily: Cards can be managed, frozen and unfrozen through the Wise app.
  • Protect your everyday debit card: Wise can provide an additional layer between travel merchants and your primary checking account.

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Convert and Hold Your Destination’s Currency

One of Wise’s most interesting travel features is the ability to convert dollars and hold the resulting balance in your destination’s currency.

Wise lets you watch exchange rates and convert money for an upcoming trip on your own schedule rather than waiting until you arrive and accepting whatever rate is available that day. If the dollar strengthens against your destination’s currency, you can choose to convert part of your travel budget while the rate looks favorable. The converted funds can then remain in your Wise balance until you are ready to use them.

This can be helpful when you are saving for an upcoming trip, setting aside a specific amount of spending money or planning an expensive international vacation. You can gradually convert money over several weeks or months instead of converting your entire travel budget at once.

There is no way to know with certainty which direction exchange rates will move. Converting early could work in your favor, or the rate could improve after you exchange your money.

A middle-ground approach is to convert part of your expected spending money before departure and leave the rest in dollars. Wise can then automatically convert money from another available balance to complete a purchase when needed.

Beyond potentially getting a favorable rate, converting ahead of time can make budgeting easier. Once the money is converted, you know how much destination currency you have available for the trip.

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Using the Wise Card for Everyday Travel Purchases

The Wise card can be used for many of the same everyday purchases as a traditional debit card, including:

  • Restaurants and cafés
  • Grocery stores
  • Public transportation
  • Train tickets
  • Museums and attractions
  • Local tours
  • Souvenirs and shopping
  • Online purchases priced in foreign currencies

If you already hold the purchase currency in Wise, the transaction is deducted from that balance. If you do not have enough of that currency, Wise can automatically convert money from another available balance to complete the purchase.

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Use Wise as a Firewall for Your Everyday Accounts

Wise can act as a financial firewall of sorts between travel purchases and the debit card connected directly to your primary checking account.

Instead of using your everyday debit card at restaurants, ticket machines, ATMs and unfamiliar merchants, you can transfer a limited amount of spending money to Wise and use the Wise card during your trip.

If the Wise card number is compromised, using a limited Wise balance may reduce the amount immediately available through that card compared with using a debit card tied directly to your primary checking account.

This can be particularly helpful when using unfamiliar ATMs, small merchants, transportation kiosks or other payment terminals while traveling.

This setup does not eliminate risk or replace the need to monitor transactions, protect your login credentials and report suspicious activity. It does, however, create a useful additional layer between travel spending and the financial accounts you use every day.

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Wise Cards Are Easy to Manage and Secure

Wise makes it relatively easy to order and manage physical and digital cards through its app.

After opening and verifying your account, you can order a physical card where available. Eligible users can also access digital card features for online purchases and mobile-wallet payments.

If your card is lost, temporarily misplaced or showing suspicious activity, you can freeze it directly in the app. If you later find the card, you can unfreeze it without replacing it.

You can also adjust controls for different types of transactions, including:

  • Online purchases
  • Contactless payments
  • ATM withdrawals
  • Magnetic-stripe transactions
  • Mobile wallet payments

These controls make it possible to disable features you do not expect to use while leaving the ones you need available. Transaction notifications can also help you quickly notice an unfamiliar charge.

Important for U.S. travelers: A Wise card issued in the United States can only be activated while you are in the United States. Order, activate and test the physical card before leaving the country.

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Always Choose the Local Currency

When a payment terminal or ATM asks whether you want to be charged in U.S. dollars or the local currency, choose the local currency.

Choose the currency used at your destination rather than U.S. dollars.

Choosing U.S. dollars allows the merchant or ATM operator to perform the conversion through a process known as dynamic currency conversion. That conversion frequently includes a less favorable exchange rate or additional markup.

Selecting the local currency allows Wise to handle the conversion instead.

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Using Wise at Foreign ATMs

The Wise card can also be used to withdraw local currency from compatible ATMs. This can be a convenient alternative to ordering a large amount of foreign cash before leaving home.

For U.S.-issued cards, Wise currently does not charge its own ATM withdrawal fee when your combined withdrawals total no more than $250 during a calendar month. After reaching $250, Wise currently charges $1.95 plus 1.95% for each additional withdrawal.

An ATM owner may charge a separate operator fee regardless of whether Wise charges a fee.

Because fees and allowances can change, check the current Wise card pricing before traveling.

When using an ATM:

  • Choose the local currency.
  • Decline the ATM’s currency conversion.
  • Review any operator fee before completing the withdrawal.
  • Make fewer, appropriately sized withdrawals rather than many small withdrawals.
  • Use bank-operated ATMs when practical.

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Wise Is a Debit Card, Not a Credit Card

The Wise card is useful for everyday spending, but it does not replace every benefit of a credit card.

Hotels, rental car companies and gas stations may place temporary preauthorization holds on debit cards. These holds can make part of your Wise balance unavailable until the merchant releases the money.

A travel credit card may also provide rewards, purchase protections, rental car coverage or trip-related benefits that are not included with a debit card.

For those reasons, I would be cautious about using Wise as the only payment method for:

  • Hotel security deposits
  • Rental car deposits
  • Pay-at-the-pump gas purchases
  • Large travel reservations
  • Purchases where credit card protections are important

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A Practical Wise Travel Setup

A sensible approach is to use Wise as one part of a broader travel payment plan:

  1. Open and verify your Wise account well before departure.
  2. Order the physical Wise card with enough time for delivery.
  3. Activate and test a U.S.-issued card before leaving the United States.
  4. Add an eligible digital card to Apple Pay or Google Pay.
  5. Transfer a limited amount of expected spending money into Wise.
  6. Watch exchange rates and optionally convert part of the balance when the rate looks favorable.
  7. Use Wise for restaurants, transportation, shopping and occasional cash withdrawals.
  8. Use a separate travel credit card for hotels, rental cars and major purchases.
  9. Keep another backup card stored separately from your primary wallet.

Do not wait until the day before departure to set everything up. Identity verification, bank transfers and physical card delivery can take time.

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Things to Consider Before Using Wise

  • Conversion fees still exist: Wise charges for currency conversion even though it clearly displays the applicable rate and fee.
  • ATM operators can add fees: Wise cannot control fees charged by independent ATM owners.
  • It is a debit card: Merchant deposits and preauthorization holds temporarily reduce your available balance.
  • Acceptance is not universal: Some merchants, websites or automated terminals may reject certain debit cards.
  • Availability varies: Wise account and card features depend on your home country or region.
  • Wise is not a traditional bank: How customer money is held and protected can depend on the balance, feature and jurisdiction involved.
  • Exchange rates can change: Converting early may help or hurt depending on how rates move before your trip.

Review Wise’s current pricing, eligibility and customer-fund disclosures before adding a significant balance.

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Is Wise Worth Using for Travel?

Yes—absolutely. From personal experience… Wise is a genuinely useful travel tool and what I consider a travel hack when it comes to international travel.

It gives you the flexibility to convert money into your destination’s currency on your own schedule, hold those funds until your trip and spend from that balance while traveling. You can also skip converting ahead of time and let Wise automatically handle the exchange when you make a purchase.

The Wise card is especially useful for everyday travel spending, including restaurants, transportation, shopping and ATM withdrawals. It can also act as a financial firewall of sorts by allowing you to travel with a limited Wise balance instead of repeatedly exposing the debit card connected directly to your primary checking account.

Add in easy card freezing, digital card support, clear conversion costs and the ability to manage everything through the Wise app, and this becomes much more than another payment card. It is a practical way to organize travel money, reduce reliance on your everyday debit card and make spending in another currency easier.

I would still carry a good travel credit card and a separately stored backup card, especially for hotels, rental cars and larger purchases. As part of a well-rounded travel payment setup, however, Wise is an excellent tool that I would strongly consider before any international trip.

Get Started with Wise →

Fees, exchange rates, supported currencies, card availability and account features can change. Check Wise directly for current terms and pricing before signing up or traveling.

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. hack:wise tag:tpr

Gorilla Tape To-Go: Heavy-Duty Mini Duct Tape for Travel, 2-Pack – On Sale For $7.88, $3.94 Each

Gorilla Tape, Mini Duct Tape to-Go, 1" x 10 yd Travel Size, Black, (Pack of 2)

Gorilla Tape To-Go: Heavy-Duty Mini Duct Tape for Travel

Duct tape can do a lot of things… a lot of things. It even helped bring Apollo 13 safely back to Earth. 🙂

For travel, duct tape can be a trip-saver in much smaller but still very real ways. After an airline shredded most of my luggage before a cruise out of Miami, duct tape became the way I kept my suitcase closed for the rest of the trip. Ever since then, I have considered a small amount of duct tape one of those emergency items that is worth having along.

The problem is that a full-size roll is bulky and awkward to pack. Gorilla Tape To-Go provides a more travel-friendly option. These compact rolls are only 1 inch wide, but they still give you the heavy-duty adhesive and reinforced construction associated with Gorilla Tape.

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Why Pack Gorilla Tape To-Go?

A regular roll of duct tape is useful, but it takes up more suitcase space than most travelers want to give it. That makes it easy to leave behind, even though a few feet of strong tape could make a big difference when luggage or other travel gear is damaged.

Gorilla Tape To-Go reduces the roll to a more packable size. Each roll is 1 inch wide and includes 10 yards of tape. That gives you enough for multiple temporary repairs without bringing a full-size roll.

This is not something you pack because you expect your suitcase to break. You pack it because when something does go wrong, strong tape may be the easiest way to keep an item usable until you get home or can make a proper repair.

What You Get

This Amazon listing is for a two-pack of black Gorilla Tape To-Go.

  • Two compact rolls of Gorilla Tape
  • Each roll measures 1 inch wide by 10 yards long
  • Black color
  • Double-thick adhesive
  • Strong reinforced backing
  • Weather-resistant outer shell
  • Designed to be torn by hand
  • Compact size for luggage, backpacks, vehicles and emergency kits

Because this is a two-pack, you can split the rolls up. Keep one in your primary travel bag and the other in your car, checked luggage or emergency kit.

Good Travel Uses for Gorilla Tape To-Go

Travel can create small problems that are difficult to fix when you are away from your normal tools and supplies. Gorilla Tape To-Go can provide a temporary solution for situations like these:

  • Damaged luggage: Reinforce a tear, hold down a loose section or help keep a damaged suitcase closed.
  • Loose straps: Temporarily secure a loose luggage or backpack strap.
  • Torn travel gear: Patch a small rip in a bag, rain cover, packing cube or similar item.
  • Broken packaging: Reseal a torn box, pouch or other container until it can be replaced.
  • Temporary labels: Mark luggage, storage containers or travel equipment with a permanent marker.
  • Outdoor gear: Make a temporary repair to camping, hiking, boating or beach equipment.

I would not expect Gorilla Tape to replace a real repair. That is not the point. The point is having something compact that can keep damaged gear functional long enough to finish the trip or get home.

Heavy-Duty Tape in a Travel-Friendly Size

Gorilla Tape To-Go is heavier and more substantial than the thin utility tape included in some basic travel repair kits. It uses a thick adhesive, reinforced backing and a weather-resistant shell.

That construction can be helpful for damaged luggage, loose straps and uneven surfaces where lightweight tape may not hold as well. The 1-inch width is also useful for travel because it is easier to wrap around handles, reinforce seams and make smaller controlled repairs.

When a wider patch is needed, two or more strips can be placed side by side. Large tears may take more work than they would with standard-width duct tape, but the narrower roll is much easier to pack.

Cruise Uses

Gorilla Tape To-Go is a good fit for cruising because once you are on the ship, you cannot always run to a store for repair supplies. You may be able to find basic items onboard or in port, but that is not always convenient.

For cruises, I would use it for travel-related problems such as damaged luggage, torn packing cubes, loose straps, toiletry bag repairs and damaged excursion gear. It may also be useful before embarkation if a suitcase pocket or handle needs a quick temporary fix.

One important note: I would avoid applying Gorilla Tape to cruise cabin walls, doors, furniture or painted surfaces. Its strong adhesive may leave residue or damage the finish. It is better suited to your own belongings.

Gorilla Tape To-Go vs. Flat-Roll Travel Duct Tape

Gorilla Tape To-Go and flat-roll travel duct tape solve the same general problem in different ways.

Gorilla Tape To-Go is the better fit when you want a recognized heavy-duty tape in a compact traditional roll. Its 1-inch width works well for straps, seams, handles and smaller repairs.

Flat-roll duct tape packs more neatly in a thin pocket or small emergency pouch. It may also be available in wider sizes that cover larger tears more quickly.

Gorilla Tape emphasizes strength and durability, while flat rolls emphasize the smallest possible packing profile. Both are easier to travel with than a full-size roll.

Where to Pack It

Keeping a roll in your checked suitcase makes sense for repairs during a trip, but it will not help if your luggage is damaged before you retrieve it at baggage claim.

Because this listing includes two rolls, I would split them up. Keep one in a carry-on, backpack or personal item and the other in a checked suitcase, vehicle or travel emergency kit. A small zippered pouch will help prevent the roll from unwinding or sticking to nearby items.

Things to Know Before Using It

Gorilla Tape is designed for a strong hold, so it should be used carefully around delicate belongings and finished surfaces.

  • Use it primarily as a temporary repair.
  • Apply it to a clean and dry surface whenever possible.
  • Avoid hotel and cruise cabin walls, furniture and painted finishes.
  • Test cautiously before using it on delicate fabrics or coated materials.
  • Be aware that heavy-duty adhesive may leave residue.
  • Do not use it as an electrical safety repair.
  • Do not apply it directly to skin as a substitute for medical tape.
  • Properly repair or replace damaged safety-critical equipment as soon as possible.

For most travelers, the best use is simple: keep a compact roll available for temporary repairs to your own gear.

Final Thoughts

Gorilla Tape To-Go gives travelers access to heavy-duty repair tape without requiring the space of a full-size roll. Its compact 1-inch width works well for luggage, straps, seams and other smaller repairs, while each roll still provides 10 yards of tape.

The two-pack is particularly useful because you can keep a roll in more than one location. One can stay in your carry-on or backpack while the second lives in a checked bag, vehicle or emergency kit.

Duct tape is not the most exciting thing to pack, but it can become incredibly valuable when luggage or gear is damaged far from home. For the amount of space it requires, Gorilla Tape To-Go is a sensible addition to a travel repair kit.

Gorilla Tape, Mini Duct Tape to-Go, 1″ x 10 yd Travel Size, Black, (Pack of 2) – affiliate link, note that multiple variations of this product may be available, as such a different version may appear at this link

Prefer a flatter and wider option? Check out these compact flat rolls of mini travel duct tape.

💥Limited Time Deal!💥

7/15 8:30 AM Central: These are on sale for just $7.88. Prices, promotions and availability can change quickly. Check product page for current info and availability.

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.

Stainless Steel Small Clothes Pins for Travel: Tiny Clips That Do a Lot – A Must-Pack Item For Us

Stainless Steel Small Clothes Pins for Travel: Tiny Clips That Do a Lot

Stainless Steel Small Clothes Pins

Stainless steel small clothes pins are one of those simple travel items that have become a must-pack item for us. I always keep a few in my bag because they are small, lightweight, reusable and useful for a lot more than laundry.

I use them for hanging up clothes, clipping snacks closed, securing small items and more. They are compact and well made, and because they are stainless steel, they feel like a nice upgrade over flimsy plastic clips or bulky wooden clothespins.

Check Current Price & Availability →

Why Pack Small Stainless Steel Clothes Pins?

Travel laundry can be awkward. Hotel bathrooms, cruise cabins and vacation rentals do not always give you a great place to hang wet clothes, swimsuits or small items. A few compact clips can make it easier to hang things from a travel clothesline, shower line, hanger, balcony chair or other suitable spot.

These clips are also handy outside of laundry. Use them as snack bag clips, paper clips, cord organizers, towel clips, photo clips or small utility clips around your room or cabin. They are not exciting, but they are genuinely useful.

Good Uses for Travel and Cruising

  • Hanging swimsuits to dry
  • Clipping socks or small clothing items to a travel clothesline
  • Keeping snack bags closed
  • Securing small papers, receipts or excursion tickets
  • Clipping lightweight items to a hanger
  • Using as compact utility clips in a cruise cabin, hotel room or camper

Why Stainless Steel?

Plastic clips can crack, wooden clips can absorb moisture and both can take up more room than you might want in a small travel kit. Stainless steel clips are compact, strong for their size and better suited for repeated use around damp clothing, bathrooms and outdoor spaces.

Because these are small wire clips, they are easy to tuck into a toiletry bag, laundry kit, packing cube or side pocket. You do not need to pack the whole set for one trip. A handful is usually plenty.

Product Notes

According to the product listing, this set includes 40 stainless steel wire clips. The listed size is approximately 2 inches by 0.5 inches by 1 inch. They are designed for laundry, kitchen, office, outdoor and travel use.

As with many Amazon listings, multiple variations or sellers may be available from the same product page. Check the product page for the current description, package count, price and availability before ordering.

40 Pack Stainless Steel Small Clothes Pins Durable Clothes Pegs Multi-Purpose Metal Wire Utility Clips for Laundry Home Kitchen Outdoor Travel Office – affiliate link, note that multiple variations of this product may be available, as such a different version may appear at this link.

Bottom Line

These stainless steel small clothes pins are a simple, inexpensive travel accessory that can be used again and again. They are especially useful for drying swimsuits and small laundry items, but they also work as snack clips and general purpose travel clips.

For us, these are a must-pack item. I always keep a few in my bag. They take up very little room and have lots of uses.

Also Consider: Laundry Detergent Sheets

Eco-friendly Laundry Detergent Sheets, Travel Size Liquidless Soap Sheets

Eco-friendly Laundry Detergent Sheets, Travel Size Liquidless Soap Sheets NeatClear | No Mess & Space-Saving, Great For Travel, Apartments, Dorms | Fresh Linen Scent 32 Laundry Strips (32 Loads)

It is nice to have some laundry detergent when traveling if you need to wash something in the sink while you are on the go.

The great thing about these is that they are solid sheets. That means no leaking in your luggage, and they save weight compared to liquid detergent.

Eco-friendly Laundry Detergent Sheets, Travel Size Liquidless Soap Sheets NeatClear | No Mess & Space-Saving, Great For Travel, Apartments, Dorms | Fresh Linen Scent 32 Laundry Strips (32 Loads) – 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!

Magnetic Toothbrush Holder for Cruise Cabins: Small Bathroom Organization Hack

Magnetic Toothbrush Holder for Cruise Cabins: Small Bathroom Organization Hack

Magnetic Toothbrush Holder for Cruise Ship

Cruise cabin bathrooms are small. Counter space is limited, the sink area gets crowded fast and there is not always a great place to keep toothbrushes, toothpaste, razors and other daily-use bathroom items.

That is what makes this Magnetic Toothbrush Holder for Cruise Cabins interesting. It is a simple magnetic organizer designed to attach to compatible metal cruise cabin surfaces, giving you extra bathroom storage while saving precious counter space in cramped cruise cabin bathrooms.

For cruisers, small organization items like this can make a real difference. This solves a very specific cruise cabin problem: keeping everyday bathroom items organized and off the tiny sink counter.

✅Check Current Price & Availability →

Why This Makes Sense for Cruise Cabins

Cruise bathrooms usually have just enough counter space for the basics. Once you add toothbrushes, toothpaste, razors, flossers, cosmetics, contact lens supplies or other small toiletries, the area around the sink can get cluttered quickly.

A magnetic toothbrush holder gives you another place to put those items. Instead of leaving everything around the sink, you can move daily-use items up onto a compatible magnetic surface.

That can be especially useful for:

  • Couples sharing a small cruise bathroom
  • Families with multiple toothbrushes
  • Electric toothbrush users
  • Cruisers who like to keep the sink area clear
  • Anyone trying to make a tiny cabin bathroom feel more organized

Magnetic Mounting

This organizer uses a magnetic mount, which is one of the reasons it makes sense for cruise cabin use. Many cruise cabins have metal surfaces that work with magnets, though this can vary by ship, cabin and surface.

The listing says this holder is designed for smooth metal stateroom walls and doors. It is best for magnetic metal surfaces and is not meant for glass, tile, wood or other non-magnetic surfaces.

As with any magnetic cruise accessory, test it carefully before loading it up. Cruise cabin surfaces can vary, and different locations in the same cabin may have different magnetic strength.

Useful for Toothbrushes, Toothpaste and More

Although the obvious use is toothbrush storage, this can also work for other small bathroom items.

Possible uses include:

  • Toothbrushes
  • Travel toothpaste
  • Razors
  • Flossers
  • Small makeup brushes
  • Other small daily-use toiletries and cosmetics

The listing says the holder includes 2 removable dividers, allowing you to configure the inside space for different items. That is helpful because not everyone packs the same toothbrushes or toiletries.

Why I Like This Type of Cruise Accessory

I like cruise accessories that solve small, real problems without taking up much room in your luggage. Cruise bathrooms are not designed with a lot of extra storage, and the things you use every morning and night still need a convenient spot.

A magnetic toothbrush holder keeps those items visible, accessible and off the wet counter area. It is also the kind of item that can be useful from embarkation day through the final morning.

A Quick Cruise Cabin Magnet Note

Magnetic cruise accessories are popular because many cruise cabins have metal surfaces. That said, not every surface in every cabin will work the same way.

Before relying on this for heavier items, test the magnetic hold on the surface you plan to use. Also avoid placing breakable items, valuables or anything messy where a fall could create a problem.

Who This Is Best For

This Magnetic Toothbrush Holder for Cruise Cabins is best for cruisers who want a cleaner, more organized bathroom setup without packing a large hanging organizer.

It makes sense for couples, families and anyone who likes having daily-use items in a predictable place. It could also be a nice add-on if you already pack magnetic hooks or other magnetic cruise cabin organizers.

Final Thoughts

Small cruise accessories can be surprisingly useful when they solve the right problem. This magnetic toothbrush holder is aimed directly at one of those problems: tiny cruise bathrooms with limited counter space.

I like the idea of using unused magnetic surfaces to create a dedicated spot for toothbrushes, toothpaste, razors and other small bathroom items. It is compact, simple and purpose-built for cruise cabin organization.

For cruisers who want to keep the sink area clearer and make the bathroom a little easier to use, this is worth a look.

Magnetic Toothbrush Holder for Cruise Ship Cabin – 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.

All information is believed to be accurate at the time of publishing, but should be independently verified before purchase.

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!

Painter’s Tape Cruise Hack: The Weird Little Item That Solves Real Travel Problems

Painter's tape cruise hack

Painter’s Tape Cruise Hack: The Weird Little Item That Solves Real Travel Problems

The painter’s tape cruise hack sounds a little strange at first, but it makes sense fast. A small amount of painter’s tape can help dim annoying indicator lights, label chargers, tame loose cords, leave quick notes, organize papers and handle little travel-day problems that pop up in a cruise cabin.

It is lightweight, inexpensive, easy to pack and designed to be less aggressive than many other tapes. That makes painter’s tape for a cruise a surprisingly useful add-on for anyone who likes clever, low-cost travel hacks.

You don’t need to pack a bulky roll. Since you generally won’t use much, a narrower roll like the pictured 1-inch wide option works well. You can also wrap a few feet around an old gift card, hotel key card or small piece of plastic and tuck it into your toiletry bag, tech pouch or cruise carry-on.

Why Painter’s Tape Works Well for Travel

The big advantage of painter’s tape is that it is made for temporary use. Compared with duct tape or packing tape, painter’s tape is usually easier to remove and less likely to leave behind sticky residue when used properly.

That matters on a cruise because you are staying in a cabin that is not yours. You do not want to use anything overly aggressive in a cruise cabin, especially on doors, walls, fixtures, safety equipment or delicate surfaces. Used carefully and only on appropriate surfaces, a small amount of painter’s tape can be a temporary option for light-duty labels, notes and organization.

Painter’s Tape Cruise Hack Ideas

A small amount of painter’s tape can be useful in a cruise cabin in several ways:

  • Dim tiny indicator lights: Use a small piece only on cool, nonessential indicator lights. Do not cover vents, sensors, screens, heat-producing parts, smoke detectors, thermostats or anything safety-related.
  • Label chargers: Mark phone chargers, power banks, USB cords or adapters so they do not get mixed up with everyone else’s gear.
  • Leave quick notes: Use a small piece on an appropriate surface, such as a mirror or desk area, after testing first. Avoid stateroom doors unless your cruise line specifically allows tape or adhesives.
  • Control loose cords: Lightly secure a charging cable to a desk or nightstand so it does not keep falling behind furniture. Keep cords out of walkways and away from doors.
  • Mark luggage or packing cubes: Add a quick label to bags, packing cubes, toiletry pouches or kids’ items.
  • Hold paper items together: Keep luggage tags, printed confirmations, daily schedules or receipts grouped together.
  • Make a quick lint helper: In a pinch, wrap a little tape around your fingers, sticky side out, and use it as a temporary lint remover.

Travel Day Uses

Painter’s tape can also help before and after the cruise. Use it to label cords in a hotel room, mark a suitcase, reinforce a paper note, keep small travel papers together or temporarily tag something that needs attention when you unpack.

This can be especially helpful on embarkation and disembarkation days when bags, documents, chargers, luggage tags and travel accessories are all moving around at once.

How to Pack Painter’s Tape Without Bringing a Full Roll

A full-size roll of painter’s tape is more than most cruisers need. For this cruise packing hack, smaller is better.

Here are a few easy ways to pack it:

  • Pack a narrow roll: A 1-inch wide roll gives you plenty of tape without taking up as much room as wider options.
  • Use a partially used roll: This is a good way to bring painter’s tape without packing a brand-new full roll.
  • Wrap some around a card: Wind a few feet around an old gift card, hotel key card or piece of plastic.
  • Add it to your tech pouch: Painter’s tape is especially useful with chargers, cords and small electronics.
  • Keep it in your carry-on: That makes it available for hotels, flights, embarkation day and the cruise cabin.

Pictured: ScotchBlue Original Multi-Surface Painters Tape, 1 Inch Wide (0.94 in. x 60 Yds)

A Few Common-Sense Tape Rules

Painter’s tape can be useful, but it should still be used carefully. Do not use it on sprinklers, smoke detectors, thermostats, sensors, security devices, door locks, peepholes, vents, balcony surfaces, artwork, wall coverings, delicate finishes or anything safety-related.

Do not use painter’s tape to hang heavy items, decorate hallways, attach items to stateroom doors unless your cruise line allows it, or place anything where it could interfere with cabin doors, crew access, emergency access or ship equipment.

Test a tiny piece first, use only what you need and remove all tape before leaving the cabin. Even low-tack tape can behave differently depending on the surface, humidity, heat and how long it stays in place.

Why This Is a Good Cruise Packing Hack

The best cruise packing hacks are small, cheap and useful in more than one way. Painter’s tape checks those boxes. It can help with cabin organization, travel notes, cord control, labeling, small annoyances and quick fixes without taking up much space in your bag.

It is not something most cruise packing lists mention, which is exactly why it stands out. A little painter’s tape is the kind of weird travel item that may earn a permanent spot in your cruise bag after you use it once.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I bring painter’s tape on a cruise?

Painter’s tape is not typically the kind of item cruise lines call out the way they do with irons, candles or surge-protected power strips. Still, cruise line rules can change, so it is always smart to check your cruise line’s current prohibited items list before packing.

Will painter’s tape damage a cruise cabin?

Painter’s tape is designed to be removable, but no tape is risk-free on every surface. Use small pieces, test carefully, avoid delicate surfaces and remove it before the end of your cruise.

Is painter’s tape better than duct tape for a cruise?

For most light-duty cabin uses, yes. Duct tape is stronger, but it is also more aggressive and more likely to leave residue. Painter’s tape is usually a better choice for temporary labels, notes and small organization tasks.

Can I use painter’s tape to hang decorations on a cruise cabin door?

I would not recommend using painter’s tape for cruise cabin door decorations unless your cruise line specifically allows tape or adhesives. Some cruise lines restrict adhesives, paper decorations or door decorations entirely. If door decorations are allowed, magnets are usually the safer option.

How much painter’s tape should I pack?

You don’t need a full roll. A narrow roll, partially used roll or a few feet wrapped around a card is usually enough for a typical cruise.

Can painter’s tape help in an inside cabin?

Yes. Inside cabins can get very dark, which can make tiny device lights more noticeable. Use painter’s tape only on cool, nonessential indicator lights and never on safety equipment, vents, sensors, thermostats or heat-producing devices.

Should painter’s tape replace magnetic hooks or other cabin organizers?

No. Painter’s tape is more of a small problem-solver than a main organizer. Magnetic hooks, pouches and packing cubes can handle larger storage jobs, while painter’s tape is useful for labels, notes and light temporary fixes.

Final Thoughts

Packing painter’s tape for a cruise sounds strange, but that is what makes it a fun travel hack. It is small, cheap, easy to pack and useful for more than one situation. From labeling chargers to dimming tiny indicator lights to keeping travel papers together, a little painter’s tape can solve small problems before they become annoying.

As with any tape or adhesive, use common sense. Keep it away from safety equipment, avoid delicate surfaces and remove it before you leave the cabin. Used carefully, painter’s tape is a clever little cruise packing upgrade that most people never think to bring.

Related: Gorilla Tape

Gorilla Tape, Mini Duct Tape to-Go, 1" x 10 yd Travel Size, Black, (Pack of 2)

Duct tape can do a lot of things… a lot of things. Like help bring Apollo 13 safely back to earth. 🙂

Having duct tape while traveling can be a lifesaver when traveling. After an airline shredded most of my luggage on a cruise out of Miami, duct tape became the way I kept my suitcase closed.

A full size roll of duct tape is large and heavy. These smaller rolls are the way to go.

It’s worth noting, this is not the same as painters tape, the adhesive is much stronger.

Gorilla Tape, Mini Duct Tape to-Go, 1″ x 10 yd Travel Size, Black, (Pack of 2) – affiliate link, note that multiple variations of this product may be available, as such a different version may appear at this link

See The Main 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!

If you’re in doubt about the suitability of painters tape on a particular device, there’s an easy solution, ask your room steward or facilities manager.

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:painterstape tag:tpr

Zipper Clips for Travel: Anti-Theft Deterrent and In-Transit Bag Security

Zipper Clips for Travel: Anti-Theft Deterrent and In-Transit Bag Security

Zipper Clips for Travel: Anti-Theft Deterrent and In-Transit Bag Security

Small travel accessories can make a big difference, especially when you are moving through crowded airports, train stations, cruise terminals, city streets and tourist areas. These zipper clips for travel are a simple way to make backpack, purse, crossbody bag and luggage zippers a little harder to open casually.

This is not the same thing as locking a bag in a true security sense. These clips are easy to remove or break if someone is determined. The value is in the extra step they add. Instead of a zipper that can be quickly pulled open, the zipper pulls are clipped together, making casual access more difficult and accidental opening less likely.

In This Post

Why Use Zipper Clips for Travel?

We recently went on a trip to Europe. That trip included time in London, a cruise to four Northern European countries and time in Paris. While preparing, we spent a lot of time thinking through ways to reduce the risk of pickpockets in crowded areas.

One tip we picked up while watching this video was to put locks on backpack, crossbody bag and purse zippers. I liked the idea of securing zippers, but needing a key every time I wanted to open a pocket on my backpack didn’t sound very appealing.

That led me to look for a middle-ground option. I wanted something that would make zippers harder to open quickly, without turning every bag access point into a locked compartment. These small double carabiner-style zipper clips are a good fit for that type of use.

Anti-Theft Deterrent for Backpacks, Purses and Crossbody Bags

The main idea behind these clips is deterrence. If two zipper pulls are clipped together, the pocket is not as easy to open with one quick motion. That can be helpful when walking through busy places where your attention may be divided.

Examples include:

  • Airport terminals
  • Train stations
  • Cruise terminals
  • Public transportation
  • Crowded tourist areas
  • Street markets
  • Museums and attractions
  • Busy city sidewalks

For a backpack, this can be especially useful on exterior compartments that are behind you while you are walking. For a purse or crossbody bag, it can help keep zipper pulls together so the compartment is less likely to be opened casually in a crowd.

These are not high-security locks. A determined thief could still get into a bag, cut fabric, break a clip or take the entire bag. The point is to make quick, casual, unnoticed access more difficult.

In-Transit Security for Luggage and Travel Bags

Beyond anti-theft deterrence, zipper clips can also help keep zippers closed while bags are being moved around.

I know a zipper working its way open and something falling out is unlikely, but I still get concerned when I have important items in zippered pockets. That is especially true with travel documents, small electronics, medication, cash, chargers and other easy-to-misplace items.

These clips can be useful on:

  • Backpack compartments
  • Carry-on bag exterior pockets
  • Personal item bags
  • Soft-sided luggage pockets
  • Packing cubes with dual zipper pulls
  • Toiletry bags
  • Electronics organizers

They can also be handy during cruise travel. Bags may be handled at the hotel, airport, cruise terminal and onboard the ship. For checked cruise bags, I still recommend using sturdy cruise luggage tag holders, but zipper clips can be another small layer for exterior pockets, organizer bags and carry-on compartments during the rest of your trip.

Zipper Clips vs Luggage Locks

A luggage lock is the better option when you actually want a lock. For checked luggage, a TSA-approved luggage lock is the more traditional choice if your goal is to lock the main compartment.

Zipper clips serve a different purpose. They are faster, lighter and more convenient for pockets you may need to access more often. You do not need a key or combination, and you are less likely to avoid using them because they are inconvenient.

That makes them a good option for day-to-day travel use, especially on bags you are actively carrying.

Where a Lock Makes More Sense

  • Checked luggage main compartments
  • Suitcases left in hotel storage
  • Bags where you want actual lockable access control
  • Situations where you do not need frequent access

Where Zipper Clips Make More Sense

  • Backpacks used during sightseeing
  • Crossbody bags and purses
  • Carry-on exterior pockets
  • Small organizer bags
  • Compartments you open repeatedly during travel

Best Uses for Zipper Clips

The best use for these clips is on bags with two zipper pulls that meet together. Clip the two pulls together and the pocket becomes harder to open quickly.

They are especially useful for:

  • Backpacks: Secure exterior pockets while walking through crowded areas.
  • Crossbody bags: Add a little extra deterrence to the main zipper compartment.
  • Purses: Keep paired zipper pulls together in airports, terminals and city centers.
  • Carry-on luggage: Help keep outside compartments from opening during travel.
  • Toiletry bags: Keep zippers closed inside a suitcase or cruise cabin bathroom bag.
  • Electronics pouches: Reduce the chance of chargers, adapters or cables spilling out.
  • Packing cubes: Clip zipper pulls together so cubes stay closed while being moved around.

They can also be used as simple zipper pull replacements, depending on the bag and zipper style.

Important Limitations

These clips are useful, but they should not be oversold. They are a convenience and deterrent accessory, not a true anti-theft system.

A few important limitations:

  • They can be removed or broken.
  • They do not prevent someone from taking the entire bag.
  • They do not stop someone from cutting soft luggage or bag fabric.
  • They are not a replacement for keeping valuables close and monitored.
  • They may not fit every zipper pull or bag design.

For travel, I would think of these as one layer in a larger strategy. Keep important items close, avoid putting wallets or passports in easy-access exterior pockets and stay especially aware in crowded areas. The clips simply make some zippers less convenient to open quickly.

Zpsolution Double Small Carabiner Clips

Zpsolution Double Small Carabiner Clips – Theft Deterrent – Holding Zipper Closed – Zipper Pull Replacement – affiliate link, note that multiple variations of this product may be available, as such a different version may appear at this link

These are small double-ended carabiner-style clips. One end can clip to one zipper pull and the other end can clip to the second zipper pull. That keeps the zipper pulls attached to each other and adds a small extra step before the compartment can be opened.

For travel, I like that they do not require a key, combination or cable. They are simple, lightweight and easy to use on bags where a lock would be annoying.

Practical Cruise Uses

For cruise travel, these can be useful before, during and after your sailing.

  • Embarkation day: Clip backpack or personal item zippers while moving through the terminal.
  • Excursions: Use them on day bags in busy ports, markets and sightseeing areas.
  • Air travel: Keep carry-on and personal item pockets more secure in airports.
  • Cabin organization: Use them on toiletry bags, electronics pouches or packing cubes.
  • Disembarkation: Help keep bag pockets closed while luggage is being moved and handled.

They are not something I would rely on as my only security measure, but they are a practical little travel accessory that can solve more than one problem.

Finding Other Options

These are the ones we landed on, but more options are available. Search Amazon for “security zipper clip” to shop around.

Alternate Use: Fix Broken Zipper Pull Tabs On the Go

Zpsolution double small carabiner clips used as zipper pull replacements for travel bags

These can also work as a quick fix for broken zipper tabs. If a zipper pull breaks during a trip, a small clip like this can give you something easier to grab until you can repair or replace the bag. That makes them useful not only as a zipper security accessory, but also as a small backup repair item for backpacks, packing cubes, toiletry bags and luggage pockets.

FAQ

Are zipper clips actually anti-theft?

They are better described as a theft deterrent. They make a zipper harder to open quickly, but they do not make a bag theft-proof.

Are these better than luggage locks?

They are better for convenience. Luggage locks are better when you want an actual lock. Zipper clips are useful on bags and pockets you access frequently.

Can I use these on checked luggage?

Yes! You can use them to help keep zipper pulls together, but they are not a substitute for a TSA-approved lock if your goal is locking checked luggage.

Will these fit every zipper?

Not necessarily. They work best with zipper pulls that have openings large enough for the clips to attach.

Are these good for backpacks?

Yes, backpacks are one of the best uses. They are especially helpful on exterior compartments that are harder for you to watch while wearing the bag.

Are these useful for cruise excursions?

Yes. They can be helpful on day bags, backpacks, purses and crossbody bags during port days, especially in crowded areas.

Can these be used as zipper pull replacements?

Depending on the bag and zipper design, yes. They can sometimes function as a small replacement pull or extension.

Final Thoughts

Zipper clips are a small, simple travel accessory that can add a useful extra layer of deterrence. They can help make backpack, purse and crossbody bag zippers harder to open casually, while also helping keep luggage, packing cubes and organizer bags closed in transit.

The bottom line is that these are cheap, super small and offer increased bag security without making it annoying to get into your own bag.

Check Current Price & Availability →

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:zipclips tag:tpr

Cruise Hack… Getting an elevator on debarkation day

If you’re reading my site you’ll probably agree… cruises are amazing. From the great accommodations to the amazing food to the wonderful ports of call to the outstanding service.  Amazing!

Probably one of the least amazing things about a cruise is… the end! The dreaded debarkation day. Not only is the cruise over but you’ve probably got a full day of travel ahead of you. And along with all that a decent amount of hassle. My experience is that on debarkation day the ship changes personalities. It and every staff member in it are doing all they can do to get you off the ship. Doors will be closed, stanchions will block things off things just change.

Once you’ve had your coffee, your last breakfast on board and gotten all packed up to leave one big hurdle is… getting an elevator. Thousands of people are leaving all around the same time. Lots of luggage and people mean that elevator space is at a premium. I’ve got three tips to help you make this as easy as possible.

#1 Don’t take the elevator

If you’re able bodied and can easily carry your backpack or carry on… just walk down the steps. Walking down is super easy and usually pretty quick even if you’re on a high deck.

#2 Split up

If you need to take the elevator because you have luggage or can’t easily go down the stairs, consider splitting up. Send one or more people with the luggage with the rest of your party down the stairs

#3 This is the best tip

This tip has the real magic in it and I actually am hesitating to share it with you because I want it to continuing working for me :)…. Take ANY elevator. You want to go down, right? Don’t get hung up on that. Down elevators are going to generally be full. Up elevators are generally empty. Press both the down and up elevator buttons and take the first one you get into. When the elevator hits the top call floor, go ahead and hit the button for the lower deck you want to go to. This trick is like magic and has worked time and time again.

Finally… A General Elevator Tip

I’ve noticed that the some elevator banks or more busy than others. For example on Royal Ships the aft elevators tend to be busier than the forward elevators. The aft elevators are where most of the food is and get a lot more action than the forward elevators. When it comes to debarkation day it may be worth it to head to the generally less busy elevators even if they aren’t the closest.

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!

Morning Cruise Coffee Runs?? Pack a Drink Carrier!

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

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

Also: 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. 12.13.24 top:elevatorhack tag:tpr

Royal Caribbean Diamond Drink Hacks!

Free drink vouchers are a massive perk of Royal Caribbean’s Crown and Anchor loyalty program. The drink vouchers are valid on most alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks up to a certain dollar amount. As of this writing people who’ve achieved the Diamond level get 4 free drinks daily, Diamond Plus members get 5 free drinks and Pinnacle members get 6 free drinks.

We have sailed on Royal quite a bit and have achieved the Diamond Plus level. We’re working our way to Pinnacle.

Since getting to these levels we’ve been able to skip any drink package and greatly cut down our alcohol bill. Between the two bottles of wine we can bring on, the free bottle of wine we’ve chosen as our Diamond Plus amenity and the free drink vouchers we’ll typically only need to purchase a few drinks. These perks have saved us thousands of dollars.

One of the articles I had meant to write was a trick that we’ve used to stretch these drinks out.

4, 5 or 6 drinks may be easy to consume on a sea day, but not so much after being at an all inclusive beach club for hours. The vouchers expire each day so they don’t roll forward. What we had done was swing by a bar at the end of each night and ask for unopened drinks for any unused vouchers. We’d then put those in our stateroom refrigerator (pic above) and consume as desired.

The problem with that is…. apparently Royal is starting to crack down on that hack. They are requiring bartenders to open drinks when they are served. Reports have differed, but enough have said this is happening to make me think it’s a new policy change. Bummer.

Update: Although nothing 100% official there have been continued reports of this policy and interaction with Michael Bayley’s office on Facebook has confirmed that this is an across the fleet procedure change:

“Thank you for contacting the Executive Office of Royal Caribbean International. Mr. Bayley has received your email and I am pleased to respond,” Bell-Floyd said.

“Thank you for your loyalty to Royal. Please know that our beverage policies are in place to ensure that all guests are able to enjoy their drinks safely and responsibly. Recently, we have updated this policy to include the following: Any canned or bottled alcoholic beverages ordered at our bars must be opened before leaving the venue.”

So, it seems this isn’t limited to Diamond Drinks in particular but it probably strikes people who are used to doing this the hardest.

I think there are still some pretty good ways to accomplish the same thing. Here are some ideas…

Bottled Beer

Wine Stoppers, Food-safe Silicone Bottle Stoppers, Expanding Manual Beverage Stopper, Reusable Wine Bottle Corks, Creates Airtight Seal, Assorted Colors 4 Pack (Assorted)

Get bottled beers and use a beverage stopper to seal them up right away

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Canned Beer

Jokari’s Fizz Keepers fit on standard 12 and 16 oz sized cans. They snap tight to keep pressure (and carbonation) in AND they feature a pump to add additional carbonation. Order your favorite beers from a bar tender and then put these little gadgets on to preserve the drink. Note that these do not work with smaller seltzer style cans.

Hard Liquor

Stanley Legendary Classic Pre-Party Liquor and Spirit Flask

Order shots and put them in a flask. When you’re ready for a drink mix with fruit juice or soda to make your own mixed drink.

Wine

Order glasses of wine and put them in a foldable Wine2Go Pouch. Purge the air before sealing to reduce oxygenation.

Related: Grab Collapsible Funnels

If you’re wanting to transfer wine or liquor for future using, considering grabbing some collapsible funnels to make it easy.

Conclusions

Royal Caribbean should have no issues with these work arounds. After you receive your open drink it’s really up to you how and when you consume it. These techniques will allow you to make the most out of Diamond drink vouchers and save you some money.

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!

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

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

Also: 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. 12.10.24 top:diamondrinks tag:tpr

All About Night Lights for Your Next Cruise!

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?

One problem to consider 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.

Some options…

Omeet EU 2-pin Plug - Portable Plug-in 0.7W Travel LED Night Light with USB Wall Charger - 2 Pack of White Pictured: Omeet EU 2-pin Plug – Portable Plug-in 0.7W Travel LED Night Light with USB Wall Charger – 2 Pack of White

  • 220v night light. These utilize an often ignored and unused 220v outlet that is present in many cabins.
  • USB night lights – These plug into a USB port. That means no outlet taken up. They could go on a laptop, USB wall charger or power bank.
  • Rechargeable night light. Since they’re rechargeable they don’t take up an outlet after they’ve been charged.

Rechargeable night lights are 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.

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!

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 .

Related: Hands on Review: Auvon Rechargeable Night Lights

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!

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

Price, promotions and availability can change quickly. Check the product page for current price, description and availability. 7.24.23 top:nightlights tag:tpr

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

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

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.

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.

Voltage Adapters vs Voltage Converters

Voltage adapters are generally compact and reasonably priced. Adapters only adapt the plug. They do not convert 220v to 120v. Voltage converters actually step down voltage from 220v to 120v. Those are generally bulkier and more expensive.

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!

Will my 120v devices work with an adapter?

A 120v device (only) device will not work on a 220v outlet with an adapter, but… many of your devices may actually be rated for both 120v and 220v…

Dual Voltage and World Wide Voltage

Many devices are actually setup to use either voltage. As an example take a look at this laptop power charger. It’s designed to accept 100 volts up to 240 volts.

Another example, as of this writing… “Apple USB power adapters are designed for use with power sources rated to provide 100V AC to 240V AC at 50Hz to 60Hz.” via About Apple USB Power Adapters

Another example Anker’s model A9123 which I own and use on cruises. It is designed to accept 100 volts up to 240 volts.

Many three prong devices are designed to work at a range of voltages including 220v. Those devices will work with an outlet adapter. As three prong cord users we just don’t think about it much. To see if your device is compatible with 220v check the label, product specifications or ask the manufacturer.

What about USB?

220v adapters that have USB ports should step down power to provide USB range DC power.

Example – This USB charger accepts 100-240V AC input and outputs DC 5V

Some Adapters and Devices to Consider:

Related… Hands on Review: TESSAN International Power Plug with USB

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!

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. top:220 tag:tpr

Hands on Review Drink Caddy Portable Drink Carrier!… The Cruise Coffee Run Hero!

I realize the way that people take their morning coffee can vary significantly. Some people don’t drink coffee, some people need/want coffee first thing, some people don’t. Some people like drip coffee, some people like espresso. It’s all great.

The way we do coffee on cruises is… first thing. We like to have our coffee in the cabin before having breakfast. The other thing is that we prefer lattes and the such, not drip coffee. Since we don’t stay in Star Class Suites 🙂 that means one of us has to make a coffee run.

A coffee run equates to grabbing two (preferably three) cups of scalding hot coffee. The is followed by navigating multiple elevators. Capped by the final feat of strength and endurance… opening the cabin door.

I’ve never been seriously burned but it is a perilous journey that can be uncomfortably hot and has resulted in spilled coffees.

The obvious solution to this is a drink carrier. Drinks go in the drink carrier, I’m not getting scalded, the coffee is much less likely to spill and it’s easy to carry. Whammo!

Some ships do offer drink carriers and that’s great. In my experience (mostly Royal Caribbean recently) most ships do not offer drink carriers. That’s especially true of the Crown Lounge where it takes an act of Congress to get half and half. What I have been offered is a… plate. I’ve given that a try and it works out about as well as you’d think it would. Needless to say… carrying coffees on a plate should be added as an Olympic sport.

An outstanding solution to this is to pack a fold flat reusable drink carrier.  This has become a must pack item for us that makes a regular part of our day a lot easier!

Here’s a hands on look at the Drink Caddy Drink Carrier

This is made out of a durable and lightweight nylon canvas sort of material. It folds flat for easy packing and storage

Here it is standing up.

Check Current Price and Availability, Review Continues Below:

Drink Caddy Portable Drink Carrier and Reusable Coffee Cup Holder – 4 Cup Collapsible Tote Bag with Organizer Pockets Safely Secures Hot and Cold Beverages – Perfect for Food Delivery and Take Out – affiliate link, note that multiple variations of this product may be available, as such a different version may appear at this link

A closer look at the reinforced handle. I found it easy and comfortable to carryA look down into two of the four cup pouchesEach cup pouch has an adjustable elastic drawstring that you can use to further secure cups and bottles. I didn’t find the need to use these, but it’s nice to have the option if neededFor size reference next to a bottle of Sun Bum sunscreen (my standard size reference item on Cruise Packing List)Heading down the hallway ready for coffee!Here we are in Café al Bacio aboard the beautiful Celebrity Ascent!  Morning one coffee order is four Americanos. This morphed into three as the week went on and we fine tuned our coffee order.Time for a wonderful coffee date on the balcony/not balcony/infinite veranda thing that we had in our cabin. And… I wasn’t even scalded in the process!Another coffee runBonus coffee run, this time with a water bottle

Conclusions

This comes down to how you cruise, but for us, this thing is a home run and a must pack item for all of our cruises. It’s a simple and cheap solution to a problem that we – actually me as the coffee runner 🙂 – dealt with for years.

Check Current Price and Availability, Review Continues Below:

Drink Caddy Portable Drink Carrier and Reusable Coffee Cup Holder – 4 Cup Collapsible Tote Bag with Organizer Pockets Safely Secures Hot and Cold Beverages – Perfect for Food Delivery and Take Out – affiliate link, note that multiple variations of this product may be available, as such a different version may appear at this link

Lots more options are available – search Amazon for collapsible drink carrier to shop around

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