Cruise ship passengers urged not to leave home without key item for bathroom visits

When it comes to preparing for a cruise, many travellers focus on the big-ticket items: sunscreen, swimsuits and of course, packing enough clothes for a week of sightseeing and relaxation. But there's one item that might not immediately come to mind but can truly make a difference when it comes to your comfort on board: a night light.

If you've ever had to get up in the middle of the night to visit the bathroom while on a cruise, you'll understand why this seemingly simple item can be a lifesaver. With the cramped quarters of most cruise cabins, stumbling around in the dark can quickly lead to accidents, from stubbing your toe on furniture to tripping over a low step. It's a minor inconvenience that can turn into a major frustration, especially when you're supposed to be relaxing and unwinding.

"We envy you if you're one of those lucky people who never has to get up in the middle of the night to visit the bathroom," said Dori Saltzman, a contributor to www.cruisecritic.co.uk.

She said: "We're not so lucky, and too many stubbed toes have taught us to bring a night light to keep in the bathroom. Believe us, it's no fun going snorkelling the day after you've smacked your foot against the step into the bathroom. Throbbing toes and snorkel fins do not mix well."

Night lights, while small, can provide just enough light to help you navigate your cabin without disturbing your sleep or the sleep of others.

But night lights aren't the only way to make your cruise cabin bathroom more livable. Experienced cruisers have come up with some clever hacks that can help turn your small space into a more comfortable and functional one. Below are a few tips to make your bathroom experience smoother.

Over-the-door hooks

Space on a cruise ship is at a premium and the bathroom is no exception. With limited counter space, it's easy for towels and toiletries to pile up. That's where over-the-door hooks come in handy. Hanging towels, robes, or even a wet swimsuit on the back of the bathroom door frees up precious counter space and keeps everything organised.

Waterproof shower caddy

When you have limited storage space, it's important to keep things organised. A waterproof shower caddy is a perfect solution for cruise ship bathrooms. It allows you to keep your toiletries neatly stored and within easy reach. No more juggling shampoo bottles in cramped shelves or knocking things over while reaching for something in the shower.

A good air freshener

Cruise ship bathrooms are small, and sometimes the air can feel a little too close. A compact air freshener or a portable diffuser can help keep the space smelling fresh, no matter what. It's a simple item that can make your bathroom experience feel a lot more pleasant.

Portable toilet seat covers

While cruise ships are well-maintained, some passengers still feel more comfortable with a little extra protection. Portable toilet seat covers are a small but useful addition to your cruise packing list. They can help you feel more at ease when using public restrooms on board, providing an extra layer of cleanliness and peace of mind.

When it comes to cruising, comfort is key. While it's easy to focus on the grand adventures that await you in exotic ports, remember that little things - like a night light for your bathroom or some extra hooks for storage - can make a big difference in how much you enjoy your trip.