Packing for your Disney Cruise: Pt 3 Stateroom Needs

In my last post I talked about clothing for your Disney cruise, which honestly is the biggest hurdle. Once you’ve got your outfits sorted, you’re already halfway there! But don’t forget—your stateroom deserves a little love too. Depending on the length of your sailing, you may even want to dedicate a small carry-on bag just for stateroom essentials. Some of these items aren’t strictly necessary, but they’ll make your trip a whole lot more comfortable.

Lanyards & MagicBands

On our very first Disney cruise, we were gifted the cutest lanyards. We still use those, even after other sailings gave us simpler ones. While Disney will provide something to carry your Key to the World card (your room key and ship ID), you may want to bring your own if you want a fun character theme or better quality. I’m a teacher, so I use my badge holder from the ship at work, and it’s been perfect—especially the Minnie Mouse one I picked up last time.

Another option is the MagicBand+, which works exactly like your Key to the World card. Personally, I bring both—because my anxiety likes a backup plan! MagicBands can be purchased ahead of time in the Navigator app (yes, they have cruise-themed designs), at the parks, online, or even on the ship once the shops open at sea. They’re waterproof, great for the pools, and reusable at both the parks and cruises. Just don’t forget your charger! It’s essential if you plan to use the band daily.

Don’t Forget Water Bottles

If there’s one small item that makes a huge difference on a cruise, it’s a reusable water bottle. The ships have drink refill stations with soda, coffee, tea, and water available around the clock, but the cups they provide are pretty small. Having your own insulated water bottle means fewer trips back and forth, and your drinks stay cold by the pool or on excursions. We each bring our own, and it’s one of the first things we unpack in the room. Bonus: you’ll save on single-use cups, which feels good too!

In-Room Comfort & Organization

Before you pack, make sure you check Disney’s prohibited items list. They’re serious about it, and having to retrieve your contraband at the end of the cruise is not a fun walk of shame—I’ve done it. (More on that in a minute.)

• Magnetic hooks & clips: Walls and doors are magnetic, and you’ll want these for hats, bags, or towels. There is a clothesline in the bathroom, but I always find it too small, so bring clothespins too.

• Toiletry bag: Over-the-door organizers aren’t allowed, and stateroom counter space is limited. A hanging toiletry bag that you can hook on a towel rack or store easily is a lifesaver.

• Laundry bag: Hang one in the closet to keep dirty clothes under control. Laundry rooms are available 24/7, and they work like laundromats using your Key to the World card. If you don’t want to bring detergent, I recommend laundry sheets—they’re mess-free and easy to pack.

• Nightlight: Staterooms get dark. It’s great for sleeping, but if you’ve got kids or late-night bathroom trips, a small USB nightlight (bonus points if it’s Mickey-shaped) is a must.

• Fan: If you’re in an inside stateroom—or just need white noise—pack a small USB fan. Just double-check the prohibited list before bringing one.

• Zip-top bags: Perfect for wet swimsuits or keeping small items organized.

The Infamous Power Strip Story

Here’s where my cruise packing went sideways. Disney does not allow surge protectors, even if they’re “cruise approved.” USB hubs are fine, though. On one trip, our USB hub went missing (borrowed by my daughter, never returned), so I grabbed a cheap replacement. Big mistake. It was promptly confiscated, and yes, I got the dreaded walk of shame to reclaim it after the cruise. Learn from me: buy a compliant USB hub that can charge multiple devices at once. Add in a portable charger, too—you won’t need it much on the ship, but it’s a lifesaver on long excursions. (And don’t forget to check airline rules before flying with it.)

Other Helpful Extras

• Motion sickness remedies (Sea-Bands, Dramamine, ginger candies—whatever works for you).

• Snacks (sealed and Disney-approved only, though remember you’ve got 24/7 room service).

• Door décor (this deserves its own post, so I’ll save that for later!).

These little things may not feel essential at first glance, but trust me, they make a world of difference once you’re settled in your stateroom. Comfortable, organized, and prepared is the way to go—so you can spend more time enjoying the magic, and less time untangling swimsuit straps from the bathroom clothesline.