Understanding your insurance coverage should be high on your to-do list. The first step is knowing exactly what coverage is included in your contract. Do you have a full-time health insurance plan you can use while working onboard and when you’re signed off, including doctor visits, preventative care, and emergencies? Do you only have vacation coverage that applies to accidents and illnesses while you’re signed off? Or are you covered for accidents and illnesses that happen onboard? Knowing the type of coverage you have is critical to avoiding surprises and making sure you can access care when you need it. Understanding these details ahead of time helps ensure a smoother insurance experience.

Ship cabins are notorious for having very few outlets, often located in inconvenient spots. We live in a multi-device world where you want to charge a phone, laptop, headphones, and perhaps a tablet all at once. According to The Points Guy , many newer ships are improving their outlet situation, but older vessels remain sparse in the power department, and crew cabins will not be the first to be upgraded.

When picking a power strip, it must be a non-surge-protected model. Surge protectors are a major fire safety hazard on ships and will be confiscated by security during boarding. Always review your cruise line’s specific policy and follow any guidance they provide before packing.

Most cabin walls are metal, and shared space is scarce. Crew often overlook vertical storage. Magnetic hooks reduce clutter by getting everyday items off limited surfaces. These sturdy magnets turn cabin walls into customizable storage for your gear.

While you’re planning and organizing, think carefully about your luggage. Hard-sided suitcases are popular, but they do not always compress enough to fit into tight crew cabin storage. Soft-sided luggage or durable duffel bags can be a more practical option, as they are easier to maneuver and store in limited spaces.

Sure, the ship has a pharmacy, but it might not carry your specific preferred brand of cold medicine, blister pads, or vitamins. And if you’re traveling overseas, you can’t always find the things you love (U.S. crew might love Neosporin , while U.K. crew crave Boots products ). Pack a small wellness bag with your favorite brands. For those working in the galley, a high-quality hand salve is a must. For deck crew, specialized sunscreen is essential. For almost everyone, good insoles are helpful.

Beyond medicine, do not forget items that help you sleep, such as an eye mask or earplugs. Bringing a special blanket or your own pillowcase can make a sterile cabin feel like home. Also, consider a dedicated laundry bag to keep your personal items separate from other crew members’ gear when using shared facilities.

Crew wifi can be unreliable, especially during sea days or long ocean crossings. While the industry is seeing a shift toward faster satellite systems like Starlink, Cruise Industry News highlights that staying connected can still be a challenge depending on the ship and itinerary.

We are used to streaming on demand, but download your favorite playlists, movies, books, and podcasts before you board. Also, ensure offline access to essential documents, such as bank details and your insurance ID card. You don't want to be stuck waiting for a signal when you need important information.