travel steamer on cruise

Can You Bring a Clothes Steamer on a Cruise? (Cruise Line Guide and Alternatives)

If you are taking a cruise, you may be wondering if you can bring a clothes steamer on board the ship.

Clothes steamers are used to remove the creases from clothes before wearing and are an alternative to traditional methods of ironing.

Almost all cruise lines prohibit Irons from being brought on board.

Some ships do have self-service laundries where irons can be used free of charge. But many people wonder if a clothes steamer is an acceptable replacement.

Can You Bring a Clothes Steamer on a Cruise Ship?

The majority of mainstream cruise lines do not allow guests to bring onboard clothes steamers. Clothes steamers are banned from cruise ships due to safety concerns and if bought onboard they will usually be confiscated.

Confiscated clothes steamers will be returned at the end of the cruise.

We used to take a travel steamer but on our last cruise it was confiscated and returned at the end of the cruise. The cruise was with Royal Caribbean. Tom (youtube commenter – source )

Clothes Steamer Alternatives – Cruise Ship Laundry Services

The easiest, but most expensive way to remove creases from clothes on a cruise ship is to pay for the cruise ship’s laundry service.

Every mainstream cruise line offers a pressing service and items will usually be charged individually.

Many cruise lines do have laundry promotions such as ‘fill the bag’ promotions which allow guests to have a bag of laundry washed and pressed for a certain price.

It is possible to have clothes pressed without them first being washed, there is usually a separate price for this.

The below is an example price list of the laundry services offers on Disney Cruise Line:

When paying for a cruise lines laundry service the clothes are collected from your cabin and returned to you when finished.

Most cruise lines offer fast turnaround services but the majority take 24-48 hours.

This is a brilliant option for washing and pressing clothes mid-cruise, but if you have just embarked the cruise ship and are looking to have your clothes pressed so that you can wear them, the following options may be a better choice:

Clothes Steamer Alternatives – Cruise Ship Self Service Laundry

Many cruise lines have self-service laundries, this means that guests are able to use the washing machines and dryers.

On the majority of cruise lines, guests only need to pay for the washing detergent and other products.

The below photo is an example of the self-service laundry found on a Disney cruise. Cruise lines with self-service laundries usually have multiple across many decks.

On all cruise lines with self-service laundries, it is free of charge to use the irons.

The self-service laundry doesn’t have to be booked, so when you find a few items you’d like to iron, simply walk with them to your nearest self-service laundry.

I have used the self-service irons on multiple cruises and it works very well.

I have always found the irons to be of high quality, they are regularly maintained and tested.

If the cruise line that you are cruising with doesn’t have self-service laundries, the below options are useful:

Clothes Steamer Alternatives – Wrinkle Release Spray/Bathroom Method

The easiest way to remove creases from clothes is to use what I call the bathroom method. Kevin describes it well below:

This is my favourite way to remove creases and it works quite well and requires very little effort.

To use the bathroom method simply hang your clothes in the bathroom after running the shower for a few minutes. This could either be after having a shower, or you could just run the shower for a few minutes to gain the same effect.

As the bathroom becomes humid and damp, hang your clothes in the bathroom.

Due to the way that the clothes are hanging, the majority of creases will drop out of the clothes.

If something is particularly creased, this method may not be enough on it’s own but it’s a good, easy and free way to start. It definitely won’t make anything worse!

Give The Bathroom Method a Boost

To improve the effectiveness of the bathroom method spray on some wrinkle release spray as you hang your clothes in the bathroom.

Wrinkle release sprays are sometimes called crease releasers.

Some wrinkle-release sprays also come with the benefit of additional scents.

My favourite wrinkle-release spray can be found on Amazon here (affiliate link): Wrinkle-Release Spray .

Clothes Steamer Alternatives – Hair Straighteners

Despite the fact that the majority of cruise lines don’t allow irons to be brought onboard, hair straighteners are usually fine.

Most cruise lines will add hair straighteners to their exceptions list when talking about not allowing items with a heating element to be bought onboard.

Hair straighteners can be used as if they are mini irons to iron the creases out of clothes.

It can be difficult to iron large items do the small reach of most hair straighteners but it does work very well.

How to Prevent Creases in Clothes When Packing

• Roll, don’t fold. – Rolling reduces the creases, don’t ask me how, but it works!
• Use packing cubes. – Packing cubes compress and hold the clothes in place meaning that they get less creases. I never travel without my packing cubes. They make unpacking much faster and reduced creases is a benefit. I recently tested packing cubes and you’ll find the video here:

The winning packing cubes (spoiler alert) were from the brand Mia Tui. I take these on every cruise I go on and you can find them here: Mia Tui . Use code EMMACRUISES for 15% off!

Michelle from our Facebook Group agrees packing cubes are the way to go.

My Personal Recommendations For Removing Creases on a Cruise Ship:

Even if a cruise line is vague about if they allow travel steamers onboard I would err on the side caution and not pack one. Cruise lines scan every item of luggage before it comes onto the ship and it is very common for items to be confiscated.

On occasion, the travel steamer won’t be confiscated as shown below but I personally wouldn’t take the risk. If the steamer is confiscated you’ve wasted precious space in your luggage:

I usually avoid using the cruise lines laundry services if I can due to the high cost.

If a cruise line has a self-service laundry I will usually use the irons to iron a few items of clothing for free.

If the cruise line I’m cruising with doesn’t have a self-service laundry I will usually hang my clothes in the bathroom after having a shower to drop out the majority of the creases.

After doing this I may use a hair straightener to iron any extra areas that are still creased.

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Can You Bring a Steamer on a Cruise Ship for your Clothes?

If you often travel and stay in hotels, you might commonly take a clothes steamer to quickly and easily steam out any wrinkles in your clothes.

However, on a cruise ship, steamers are a prohibited item due to being a potential fire hazard.

If security spots you have a steamer in your luggage, it will be confiscated until you disembark.

Can I Bring a Clothes Steamer on a Cruise Ship?

Due to being a potential fire hazard, steamers and irons are listed as prohibited items and not allowed onboard a cruise ship.  Instead, passengers can use self-service laundry facilities or pressing services for a small per-item fee.

Irons and steamers are generally treated the same, although there are rare exceptions where irons are sometimes loaned out to guests. Generally, they are not allowed in rooms.

For many tips on how to keep your clothes wrinkle-free when on a cruise ship vacation, read our do cruise ships have irons (and tips for wrinkle-free clothes) post.

*While not explicitly mentioned in the prohibited items list, steamers are expected to be confiscated if attempted to be brought on board.

Again, for the most accurate information, it’s recommended to visit each cruise line’s official website or directly contact their customer service. Policies can and do change over time.

We checked all cruise line’s prohibited items, of which the main ones we have directly highlighted below.

Can You Take a Steamer on Carnival Cruise ?

From the Prohibited Items list, Carnival Cruise directly lists clothes steamers as one of those items.

Electrical and household appliances containing any kind of heating element, such as irons, clothes steamers, Carnival Cruise – Source

Can You Bring a Clothes Steamer on Royal Caribbean Cruise?

Royal Caribbean specifically state that clothes steamers cannot be brought on board.

This question has been directly answered by Royal Caribbean here , confirming clothes steamers and not allowed on board.

They specifically state:

Irons and clothes steamers are prohibited items and should not be brought with you on your vacation. Royal Caribbean

Can You Take a Clothes Steamer on a Disney Cruise?

Clothes steamers are not allowed on Disney Cruises.

On the Disney Prohibited Items list , under “Electrical appliances and components,” they explicitly mention:

Electric irons and Steamers (all ships offer self-service laundry facilities equipped with irons and ironing boards) Disney Cruises

Can You Take a Clothes Steamer on a Norwegian Cruise?

Norwegian Cruises do not allow clothes steamers onboard and explicitly mention them in their list of “What not to bring on board”,

Guests are not permitted to bring and use their own irons or steamers onboard. Irons and steamers would both be taken from guests at embarkation and returned at the end of the sailing. Norwegian Cruise

Are Steamers Allowed on Other Cruise Lines

Many other cruise lines do not explicitly mention steamers in their prohibited items lists, for example:

• Celebrity Cruises
• Holland America
• Princess Cruises
• Virgin Voyages

However, you can still expect them to be confiscated if you attempt to take them on board.

Why Can’t You Bring a Steamer on a Cruise?

The main reason clothes steamers are not allowed onboard is because they are a potential fire hazard. 

With most irons and clothes steamers, you have to plug them into an outlet to use them. If they were to malfunction, they could quickly start a fire. 

Although this also applies to electrical grooming appliances we have already covered, such as hair dryers , straighteners , and curling irons , which, in some cases, are allowed on boards.  These are, however, deemed less of a risk.

Since cruise ships have many items plugged in at any given time, they want to minimize the risk of a fire as much as possible, which they can do by not allowing items like clothes steamers onboard.

Another reason clothes steamers are not wanted is that the steam they generate could set off smoke alarms , especially with the small confines of a cabin.

Alternatives to Clothes Steamers

The most obvious alternative would be to iron, which is also not allowed in cruise ship rooms.   We have covered where you can find irons on a cruise and wrinkle-free clothes tips which is well worth a read to help you keep your clothes free of wrinkles and easily fix any that you get.

While on your cruise, you always have the option of using the self-service, which may have irons set up.  Or pay to use the pressing service where you pay a per-item fee.

You can expect to have your pressed items back within 24-48 hours.

If you are looking for free similar alternatives to a clothes steamer, would include the following methods.

How to Steam Clothes in a Shower

One steaming option you can use on a cruise is the cabin shower.

Hang your wrinkled clothing on a hanger in the bathroom.  Turn the hot water temperature to its highest level while ensuring the clothes are out of the way of the shower head, as you don’t want your clothes to get wet.  Simply close the door for 10-20 minutes.

The humidity and heat produced by the shower steam softens the fabrics and allows the creases to open up.

If your wrinkles haven’t completely fallen out by the end of your shower or you need them before you shower, simply run the water in the hottest temperatures and close the door on the bathroom for a few minutes.

You can expect it to take 10 – to 20 minutes for the wrinkles to completely disappear. 

D.I.Y Wrinkle-Release Spray

One particularly good cheap solution is to take a spray bottle with some fabric softener.  Top up with water when you arrive in your room and use it as a quick and easy wrinkle-release spray.

You can also buy branded sprays from most discount and general merchandise stores like Walmart, Target, or online can be found on our cruises essentials list.

Rolling Clothes as an Alternative to a Steamer

Rolling your clothes when packing is an age-old technique that not only saves space but can also help in preventing creases and wrinkles, reducing the need for a steamer.

The idea behind this method is quite simple in that by rolling the clothes, you’re minimizing the surfaces where folds (which later become wrinkles) can occur.

Here’s how to make the most out of this method:

• Lay out your clothing flat – Start by laying your item of clothing flat on a clean, hard surface. Smooth out any wrinkles with your hands.
• Fold in halves or thirds – For shirts, fold the sleeves in so the shirt forms a rectangle. For pants, fold them in half so the legs are together.
• Start rolling from the top – Start rolling the clothing item from the top down as tightly as possible without stretching the fabric. The goal is to create a compact roll to save space and reduce wrinkles.
• Packing cubes -If you’re finding the rolls come undone, packing cubes can help maintain the shape of your rolled clothes, while also organizing your suitcase.

Remember, delicate fabrics such as silk or satin may still wrinkle regardless of how well they’re rolled, so it’s wise to save this method for more durable fabrics like cotton or denim. When you arrive at your destination, unroll your clothes and hang them up as soon as possible to avoid any wrinkles setting in. Even if you notice minor wrinkles, they often release themselves after a day or two of hanging.

This simple method can be a great alternative to carrying a prohibited item like a steamer on a cruise ship, helping you enjoy your cruise with neat, wrinkle-free clothes.

How to Sneak a Steamer on a Cruise Ship?

While we don’t recommend trying to get a clothes steamer onboard a cruise ship, I have heard of a few people taking a Rowenta handheld steamer onboard. 

The reason they gave for it getting through security was that through the scanners, it looks the same as a hair dryer, so if the cruise company lets those onboard, this particular steamer sometimes makes it through too.

However, remember you would effectively be sneaking a fire hazard onboard!  It would be best to consider an alternative and safer option, such as a wrinkle-release spray.

Related Posts

• Can You Bring a Fan on a Cruise Ship ?

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you bring a travel steamer on a cruise ship.

All steamers, including travel and small portable steamers, are forbidden onboard all cruise ships.  As a heating item, they are a potential fire hazard, and for the safety of all passengers, they are not allowed.

Is There a Cruise-Approved Steamer?

Currently, most cruise lines do not endorse or approve specific steamers due to safety hazards. Most cruise lines prohibit such items that generate heat and are a potential fire hazard. Alternatively, consider the ship’s laundry services, wrinkle-release sprays, or careful packing to maintain wrinkle-free clothing.

What If I Pack a Steamer in My Luggage?

If a security team member spots a steamer in your luggage, it will be confiscated until you disembark.  As a solid metal object, the shape of the steamer will clearly show up on the security baggage scanners.  You can see examples in our Can Cruise Ship Scanners Detect Alcohol post.

Can I Bring a Steamer in My Carry On

While a clothes steamer is ok to take in your carry-on if you are going on a plane and it’s free of liquid, it is not allowed in your carry-on if you are going on a cruise due to being a fire hazard.

While you might not be able to pack a steamer in your luggage, don’t worry, most cruise ships have ironing and laundry services available onboard, so you can still keep your clothes looking wrinkle-free. 

If you want to avoid using these services, we suggest packing wrinkle-free clothes or clothes that won’t need to be ironed.

As a final option you can always try steaming your clothes using a hot shower in the bathroom.

Can You Bring a Vape on a Cruise?  (2024)

Can You Bring Curling Irons On a Cruise Ship?

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Can You Bring a Clothes Steamer on a Cruise Ship?

As the world reopens post pandemic, we are starting to plan our getaways and holidays again. Cruising is such a popular and affordable way to travel. You might be wondering, “Can you bring a clothes steamer on a cruise ship?”

Most cruise liners do not allow clothing steamers as they contain a heating element. Such devices (including travel irons, heated blankets and humidifiers) are prohibited as they pose a fire risk. Most cruise ships have ironing facilities on board.

The exception to this is luxury cruise liners. I’ve collated a list of the most popular cruise liners and their policies below:

Royal Carribean

Royal Carribean are a firm NO on bringing a clothing steamer on their cruise ships. The official statement from Royal Carribean is  “Irons and clothes steamers are prohibited items and should not be brought with you on your vacation.”

Princess Cruises

Princess Cruises haven’t been so specific with their wording on bringing a portable or handheld steamer on board their cruise ships. Whilst they have stated clothing irons are prohibited, they are yet to mention clothing steamers in their wording. Furthermore, Princess Cruises will allow electrical items such as small fans, power strips, power adapters and extension cords, even if a surge protector isn’t fitted.  Click here  to read their policy on these items.

Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity Cruises also have not specifically stated that a portable garment steamer cannot be taken on board the ship. Celebrity seem to be more concerned with items that generate heat, such as clothing irons, candles, incense etc. Curling irons for your hair and hair dryers  are  allowed on board.  Click here  to read the FAQ that covers prohibited items. If in doubt, contact the cruise liner to confirm.

Disney Cruise Line

We were really impressed with how specific Disney Cruise Line were with their prohibited items list! Unfortunately, garment steamers are included on this list and not allowed on board.

Here’s the wording from the Disney Cruise Line prohibited items list:  “Electric irons and Steamers (all ships offer self-service laundry facilities equipped with irons and ironing boards) “.  Click here  to view the entire prohibited items list.

MSC Cruises

MSC Cruises have specified that heat-generating devices including irons & hair irons, electric kettles, bottle warmers, electric blankets etc are not allowed on board. Although they haven’t specified travel garment steamers aren’t allowed, the “etc” here may cover this as a “heat generating device”. We’ve asked for clarification on this and will update this post when known.

Holland America Line

Holland America Line has the same standard clause as Princess Cruises regarding electrical devices without surge protectors as long as they are used with proper caution. Furthermore, we could find no mention of clothing irons being prohibited, or any hair styling products. For further information on Holland America Line prohibited items,  click here .

Carnival Cruises

Clothing steamers and clothing irons are prohibited on Carnival Cruises. Carnival Cruises have advised they offer laundry facilities on board which includes irons and ironing boards.

Fred Olsen Cruise Lines

Fred Olsen Cruise Lines prohibit items with heating elements or open flames, specifically  “clothing irons, hotplates, candles, incense, kettles and any other item that may create a fire hazard” .

As travel steamers have heating elements to covert the water into steam, it is likely they will fall into this category. For clarification, we have emailed Fred Olsen Cruise Lines who have advised the following:

Please be advised that we do not allow clothes steamer on board our ships due to safety reason. We have a launderette on board our four ships where you may use the laundry and ironing facilities, token for this can be purchased via our Guest Services on board. Alternatively we also offer pressing, washing and dry cleaning services – the relevant price lists will be in your room. If you are on board our river boat Brabant however, there is only the option of the chargeable laundry/pressing services. 

Norwegian Cruise Lines

Another cruise liner who hasn’t been specific regarding travel steamers, Norwegian Cruise Lines offer the following advice from their prohibited items list:

“ Items brought on board the vessel and not supplied by the Company containing any kind of heating element, such as but not limited to: immersion heaters, heating blankets, clothing irons, water heaters, coffee machines with heating/hot plates, etc. “

Saga Cruises

We contacted Saga Holidays directly to ask if they allowed portable clothes steamers on either their river cruises and ocean cruise liners. Saga Holidays advised:  “You are free to take on what you wish as long as it meets the airline’s regulations for travel and it fits in your luggage allowance.”

Marella Cruises

Marella Cruises are operated via TUI Group. We inquired directly regarding taking a travel sized clothing steamer onboard any cruise ship operated by TUI Group. This includes TUI Cruises, Hapay-Lloyd Cruises and Marella Cruises.

A representative from TUI Group has advised a travel sized clothing steamer is “fine” to take on board.

P&O Cruises

Another cruise liner with a less than specific policy, P&O cruises state that clothing irons are prohibited, but have not made mention to handheld or travel garment steamers. The official statement surrounding this is:

…Certain electrical items and personal grooming devices, such as power boards (without surge protection devices), laptops, phone and camera charges, hair dryers and straighteners, curling irons and shavers may be allowed onboard if they are deemed to be in a safe and proper working condition, and used with proper caution.

Contact P&O  if you have any questions.

Cunard have included the exact same clause as Norwegian Cruise Lines (see above) in their prohibited items list. We’ve emailed Cunard for clarification. Cunard have advised any kind of heating element appliance such as immersion heaters, heating blankets, clothes irons, water heaters, etc are not permitted on board. Curard offers ironing stations in each of the launderettes. There is also a pressing service available on board their cruise ships.

Viking Ocean Cruises

Viking Ocean Cruises offer irons on board their cruise liners, as part of their complimentary self-service laundry facilities. Unfortunately, portable clothes steamers are not allowed on board this cruise ship as they are considered a safety hazard.

Costa Cruises

The official wording from the Costa prohibited items list is quite similar to Norwegian Cruise Lines and Cunard, stating:

“ Power tools, cooking appliances and items containing heating elements e.g. immersion heaters, heating blankets, infrared heaters, flat irons, water heaters, coffee machines etc. “

Crystal Cruises

Absolutely no information could be found regarding prohibited items on any of Crystal Cruise ships, including their ocean, river or yacht cruises.

We did find however, that Crystal Cruises offer a complimentary pressing service for guests in categories CP, SP, SH, PS and PH. If you’ve booked in one of these categories, save the space in your luggage and leave your travel steamer at home.

Crystal Cruises also offer complimentary launderettes for self service use on all Crystal ships. This includes detergents and softeners, clothes dryers, irons and ironing boards.

We’ve also emailed Crystal Cruises directly regarding their policy on garment steamers and will update this post when we receive a response.

Crystal Cruises have linked us to their  guidebook , however, didn’t answer our questions specifically about taking your portable garment steamer on their cruise ships.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Regent Seven Seas Cruises will allow personal grooming devices, such as hair dryers, shavers, curling irons and flat irons, which we assume they are referring to your hair.

Their prohibited items list includes the standard clause regarding heating elements ( immersion heaters, heating blankets, flat irons, water heaters, coffee machines with heating / hot plates, etc.). We’ve taken this wording direct from Regent Seven Seas website and can only assume that the flat irons in this second paragraph is referring to a clothing iron, as they have used the same wording in the first paragraph to allow flat irons for hair.

We’ve asked for clarification from Regent Seven Seas Cruises regarding travel clothing steamers . We’ll update this post when we receive a response.

Sea Cloud Cruises

Laundry services available on board Sea Cloud Cruises are limited to washing and ironing. For safety reasons, passengers are not permitted to iron in their cabins. Sea Cloud Cruises have also confirmed that they do not allow any type of garment steamer on board their ships.

Seabourn Cruises

As a luxury cruise liner, Seabourn Cruises offer full laundry services including dry cleaning and pressing. Suite attendants take care of pick-up and delivery.

All Seabourn ships also offer complimentary washing machines, clothes dryers, laundry soap and ironing facilities. This is one cruise liner where you can leave your travel steamer at home and utilize the pressing service instead.

If you are interested in taking your travel steamer with you on a Seabourn Cruise, we’ve reviewed the prohibited items list, which makes no mention to travel steamers not being allowed onboard.

Furthermore, Seabourn Cruises have advised:  “Electrical devices such as small fans, power strips, multi plug box outlets/adaptors, and extension cords without surge protectors are allowed onboard when used with proper caution.” 

Silversea Cruises

Another luxury cruise line, Silversea Cruises offer complete valet services, including laundry, pressing and dry cleaning at an additional charge.

A self-service launderette on board Silversea Cruise Line offers washing machines, dryers, irons and laundry supplies, allowing you to limit the amount of cruise luggage needed, especially for longer voyages. This is another luxury cruise liner where most services are included and you could leave your garment steamer at home.

The Round Up – Can You Bring a Clothes Steamer on a Cruise Ship?

There’s quite a mix of answers when it comes to knowing if you can take a clothing steamer on a cruise ship. Most luxury liners seem to allow this, but also offer services to take care of your wrinkled clothing for you. The most popular and budget cruise lines seem to be a firm no when it comes to bringing along your clothing steamer.

If you are unsure about whether you can take your garment steamer on your cruise, please contact the cruise company or travel agent directly prior to packing for your cruise.

What Other Solutions are Available If I Can’t Bring a Clothes Steamer?

Instasteam was first brought to the market in 2020 as a solution to electricity free steaming that is portable and ecofriendly. It is also approved for use on cruise ships. Take a look below:

• InstaSteam is the worlds first electricity-free & hands-free mini travel steamer.
• Steams & Deodorizes your garments within minutes
• No batteries or electricity needed. Eco-Friendly & All Natural Minerals.
• Portable, Cruise Ship & TSA approved for all travel plans.

Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.

We hope that this comprehensive list has been helpful! If there’s a particular cruise line that we haven’t covered, please let us know in the comments below. We’ll be more than happy to make an inquiry and add the cruise line to our list.

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Can I Bring a Steamer on a Cruise? Answered

No one likes to step out in wrinkly clothes, especially when on a cruise vacation . It’s a common sight – you unpack your luggage in your cabin, only to find your favorite shirt looking like it wrestled with the other clothes. And let’s face it, wrinkles can make the snazziest attire look unkempt.

This is where the handy travel steamer comes into play, a nifty device designed to push out steam and banish those unsightly creases, restoring your clothes and personal grooming game to their former glory.

Travel steamers come in various shapes and sizes, offering the convenience of wrinkle-free clothing without the hassle of traditional ironing. However, while they’re a godsend for looking sharp, are steamers permitted on board? I remember wondering the same thing during my cruise.

So, in today’s article, we’ll not only unravel the mystery around bringing steamers on cruise ships but also offer a few do’s and don’ts to ensure your cruising experience is as smooth as possible.

Can I Bring a Steamer on a Cruise?

When planning for a cruise , one of the essential questions that pop up is about what you can and cannot pack. Specifically, if you’re pondering, “Can I bring a steamer on a cruise?” the answer is a straightforward no.

While not all cruise lines explicitly state the prohibition of steamers on their websites, there are strict rules in place aboard ships for very reasonable safety reasons. The main concern with steamers, much like irons and kettles, lies in their heat components.

These items pose potential fire hazards due to their heating element, a risk that cruise lines are understandably unwilling to take.

It’s worth noting that the prohibition isn’t just limited to steamers. Most cruise lines also have rules against other household appliances that generate heat, such as irons and hot water kettles. The risks involved with attempting to bring these items on board go beyond just having them confiscated.

You might face serious repercussions, as cruise ships take the safety and security of their passengers and crew very seriously.

Before you start packing for your next cruise vacation , remember that while steamers are incredibly handy for keeping your clothes wrinkle-free, they’re a no-go on most, if not all, cruise ships . So, does that mean you’re destined to look bad?

Are Steamers Available on Cruise Ships

So, are steamers available on cruise ship’s laundry service or not ? It’s a valid concern, given that steamers, along with irons and other heat-generating appliances, are usually prohibited for personal use on board.

However, don’t lose hope of stepping out in crease-free clothes just yet. While you can’t bring your steamer, some ships offer steamer services as part of their laundry service . This is a convenient solution for passengers who want to maintain a polished look throughout their cruise vacation .

Here are the specific cruise lines’ policies on steamers on board:

Royal Caribbean International

Royal Caribbean maintains a strict policy regarding onboard safety. As such, items like irons and steamers are not allowed on the ship under any circumstances. This strict rule ensures passenger safety and compliance with safety regulations. So if you’ve already booked a trip with them and a steamer is non-negotiable for your trip, make sure that you know the steps on how to cancel your Royal Caribbean cruise .

Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival Cruise Line has a similar policy, prohibiting the use of any electrical or household appliances with heating elements, and steamers included. However, they offer a convenient workaround by providing access to ironing boards and irons on their ships, helping passengers keep their clothes neat and wrinkle-free.

Celebrity Cruises

In line with industry standards, Celebrity Cruises bans all items capable of generating heat or flames, categorizing steamers under this restriction. This policy is a part of their commitment to ensuring the safety and security of their passengers and crew. In contrast, the Celebrity Concierge Class enhances the guest experience by offering additional amenities and personalized services, ensuring comfort and convenience while adhering to these important safety guidelines.

Disney Cruise Line

Disney Cruise Line enforces stringent policies regarding personal appliances like steamers and irons. Their focus on safety is paramount, reflecting their dedication to providing a secure and enjoyable cruising experience for all their guests. So, make sure that you have removed the steamer or iron from your Disney Cruise packing list if you’ve written it down already!

Alternatives to Steamers Onboard

So, you’re on a cruise ship , dressed for a fancy dinner but faced with the universal dilemma of wrinkled clothes. Fear not! While personal clothes steamers may not be your go-to solution due to safety concerns , there are several effective alternatives to keep you looking sharp.

• Irons : Despite the restrictions on personal steamers, many cruise ships offer irons through their laundry services or in self-service laundry rooms. This is a fine example of how cruise lines cater to the needs of their guests while keeping fire hazards at bay.
• Laundry Service : Most cruise ships provide a laundry service where you can have your clothes washed and pressed for a fee. This convenient service ensures your attire is always event-ready, eliminating the need to worry about packing strategies too meticulously.
• Wrinkle Release Spray : An excellent alternative to steamers, wrinkle-release sprays can be a game-changer. They’re effective in smoothing out wrinkles without the need for an iron or steamer. Just a few spritzes, and you’re good to go!
• Hanging Clothes in the Bathroom : A simple yet effective trick is to hang your clothes in the bathroom while taking a hot shower. The steam generated can help remove minor wrinkles from your garments. It’s a resourceful way to use the amenities in your cabin.
• Packing Strategies : To reduce wrinkles in your luggage, adopt smart packing techniques. Roll your clothes rather than folding them, place tissue paper between layers, or use dry cleaning bags for packing. These methods can greatly lessen the occurrence of creases in your checked bags, keeping your garments smoother.

Lastly, if you’re ever in doubt about the best way to remove wrinkles from your clothes on your cruise , don’t hesitate to inquire with housekeeping or guest services. They’re often more than willing to assist and can provide insights specific to the ship or cruise line you’re sailing with.

As you prepare for your next cruise holiday , remember these handy alternatives. They ensure you step out in wrinkle-free attire, ready to explore the world , one port at a time.

While cruise lines ‘ restrictions on items like steamers stem from essential safety protocols like preventing a fire hazard, they certainly don’t dampen the spirit of a stylish and carefree vacation. The availability of various alternatives onboard ensures you can maintain a sharp appearance without hassle.

So, as you go on your cruise adventure, pack wisely, embrace the convenience of onboard services, and focus on the joys of your journey. Let the cruise take care of the wrinkles, both in your clothes and your plans, as you relax and savor every moment of your well-deserved getaway.

Can you have a steamer in your carry-on?

No, carrying a steamer in your carry-on luggage is not permitted on cruise ships. If found, it can lead to serious repercussions, including the possibility of being denied boarding.

Cruise lines enforce strict safety protocols, and bringing a steamer breaches these rules, prioritizing passengers’ safety and security. It’s essential to adhere to these regulations for a smooth and trouble-free cruising experience.

How do you get wrinkles out of clothes on a cruise?

To remove wrinkles from clothes on a cruise, you can utilize the ship’s laundry service, which often includes ironing. Alternatively, hanging clothes in the bathroom while taking a hot shower utilizes steam for minor wrinkle removal.

Wrinkle-release sprays are another practical option, or you can use the ship’s self-service laundry rooms equipped with irons. Strategic packing can also minimize wrinkles from the start.

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• Cruise Lines / Cruise Tips

Can I Take A Clothes Steamer On My Cruise?

by · 15th March 2022

You’re going on a cruise, you are taking formal gear that has been screwed up in your suitcase for over 24 hours, you aren’t allowed to take a clothes iron but hey surely you can take a clothes steamer? Sadly most cruise lines do not allow travel irons or steamers to be packed and taken on board. Check out this post to find out the rules for each cruise line and who allows clothes steamers.

Let’s face it, clothes steamers (and irons) are not particularly safe and you are on a cruise ship, the last place you want a fire to break out. Clothes steamers do feel a safer option compared to clothes irons but still most cruise lines still ban them from coming on board. But rules are slowly changing, some cruise lines are becoming more open minded and allowing irons/steamers. 

In this post we will talk through each popular cruise lines and the rules around bringing clothing steamers onboard. 

So in conclusion at the moment (current FEB 2022) the only cruise line that currently allows clothing steamers to come onboard is Marella/TUI. We actually took a travel iron onboard with us and guess what, we didn’t use it once! You may think you will need it but if you pack properly you can avoid it. 

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Can You Bring A Steamer On A Cruise? A Guide To Cruise Line Policies About Steamers, Irons & More

by Judith Eve | Aug 22, 2023 | Cruise Planning & Cruiser Lifestyle

I have never brought a steamer on a cruise.

Many people wonder whether they can bring a clothes steamer on a cruise.

According to a quick search, the majority of mainstream cruise lines do not allow guests to bring onboard clothes steamers. These devices are considered a fire hazard and can pose a threat to the safety of passengers and crew members. However, some cruise lines may allow travel steamers, which are smaller and less powerful than regular steamers. It is important to check with the cruise line before packing a steamer to avoid any issues at check-in.

Can You Bring a Steamer on a Cruise

When it comes to packing for a cruise, many people wonder if they can bring a steamer with them. A steamer is a convenient tool for removing wrinkles from clothing, but is it allowed on a cruise ship? The answer is generally no.

Most mainstream cruise lines prohibit guests from bringing steamers on board due to safety concerns. Steamers can be a fire hazard and can also cause damage to the ship's furnishings. Additionally, cruise ships typically have self-service laundry facilities equipped with irons and ironing boards, making steamers unnecessary .

Royal Caribbean and Disney Cruise Line explicitly list steamers as prohibited items on their websites. Guests who attempt to bring a steamer on board may have it confiscated and returned at the end of the cruise.

It's important to note that not all cruise lines have the same policy regarding steamers. Some luxury cruise lines may allow guests to bring a steamer on board, but it's always best to check with the specific cruise line before packing a steamer.

In summary, the majority of mainstream cruise lines do not permit guests to bring steamers on board. While it may be tempting to bring a steamer for convenience, it's important to follow the cruise line's rules and regulations for the safety and well-being of all passengers and crew.

Prohibited Items on Cruises

When packing for a cruise, it is important to be aware of the items that are prohibited on board. These items are typically restricted for safety reasons and to ensure the comfort of all guests on board. Some of the most common prohibited items on cruises include weapons, illegal drugs, and heating elements such as irons and steamers.

Heating elements, such as irons and steamers, are prohibited on cruise ships due to their potential to start fires. Fire is considered to be one of the worst things that could happen on a cruise ship, and therefore, cruise lines take this matter very seriously. As a result, guests are not allowed to bring irons or steamers on board.

While it may be tempting to bring these items on board to keep clothes looking fresh and wrinkle-free, it is important to respect the rules and regulations set by the cruise line. Most cruise ships offer laundry and dry-cleaning services for a fee, which can be a convenient alternative to bringing your own iron or steamer.

In addition to heating elements, there are several other items that are prohibited on board cruise ships. These include weapons of any kind, illegal drugs, and other hazardous materials. Guests are also prohibited from bringing their own alcohol on board, as most cruise lines have strict policies regarding the consumption of alcohol on board.

Overall, it is important to carefully review the list of prohibited items before packing for a cruise. This will help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all guests on board.

Cruise Line Policies

When it comes to bringing a steamer on a cruise, it's important to be aware of the policies of the cruise line you'll be traveling with. Here are the policies of some major cruise lines regarding steamers:

Royal Caribbean

According to Royal Caribbean's website, steamers and irons are prohibited items and should not be brought on board. However, the cruise line does offer laundry and pressing services for a fee.

Celebrity Cruises

Like Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises also prohibits steamers and irons on board their ships. They do offer laundry, pressing, and dry cleaning services for an additional charge.

Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival Cruise Line also prohibits steamers and irons on board their ships due to safety concerns. However, they do offer laundry and pressing services for a fee.

Disney Cruise Line

Disney Cruise Line has a similar policy regarding steamers and irons. They are not allowed on board due to safety concerns, but laundry and pressing services are available for an additional charge.

It's important to note that these policies can vary by ship and itinerary, so it's always a good idea to check with your specific cruise line before packing a steamer.

Alternatives to Steamers

While steamers are not allowed on most cruise ships, there are several alternatives that can help you keep your clothes wrinkle-free during your trip.

One of the most common alternatives to steamers is ironing. Most cruise ships offer self-service laundry facilities equipped with irons and ironing boards. However, it's important to note that some cruise lines prohibit guests from bringing their own irons onboard. Be sure to check your cruise line's policy before packing an iron in your luggage.

Wrinkle Release Spray

Another alternative to steamers is wrinkle release spray. This spray can be applied to clothes to help release wrinkles and smooth out any creases. It's important to note that not all wrinkle release sprays are created equal, so be sure to choose a high-quality product that will effectively remove wrinkles from your clothes.

Hanging Clothes in the Bathroom While Taking a Shower

If you don't have access to an iron or wrinkle release spray, you can hang your clothes in the bathroom while taking a shower. The steam from the shower can help release wrinkles from your clothes. Be sure to close the bathroom door to trap the steam inside and leave your clothes hanging for at least 15-20 minutes.

Pack Better

Finally, one of the easiest ways to avoid wrinkles in your clothes is to pack them properly. Rolling your clothes instead of folding them can help prevent wrinkles, as can packing them tightly in your suitcase. Additionally, choosing wrinkle-resistant fabrics can help keep your clothes looking their best throughout your trip.

Laundry Services on Cruise Ships

Cruise ships offer laundry services to their passengers, which can be a convenient option for those who do not want to do their own laundry. There are two main types of laundry services available on cruise ships: self-service laundry and wash and press.

Self-Service Laundry

Many cruise ships offer self-service laundry facilities to their passengers. These facilities typically include washers and dryers, as well as ironing boards and irons. Passengers can use these facilities to wash and dry their own clothes, as well as iron them if necessary.

It is important to note that some cruise lines may charge a fee for using these facilities, while others may offer them for free. Additionally, passengers may need to bring their own laundry detergent, as some cruise lines do not provide it.

Wash and Press

In addition to self-service laundry facilities, many cruise ships also offer a wash and press service. This service allows passengers to have their clothes washed, dried, and ironed by the ship's laundry staff .

The cost of this service varies depending on the cruise line and the type of clothing being laundered. Some cruise lines may charge per item, while others may offer a flat fee for a certain amount of clothing.

Passengers should also be aware that some cruise lines may not offer this service for delicate or specialty items, such as formal wear or wedding dresses.

Overall, cruise ship laundry services can be a convenient option for passengers who do not want to do their own laundry. Whether using self-service facilities or opting for a wash and press service, passengers should be aware of any fees or restrictions associated with these services.

What happens if I bring a steamer onboard?

If a guest brings a steamer onboard, it will likely be confiscated by ship security. Confiscated steamers will be returned at the end of the cruise. It is important to note that guests who violate the cruise line's policy may face disciplinary action, including being removed from the ship at the next port of call.

When it comes to answering the question, can you brink a steamer on a cruise, My suggestion is not to do it, or as stated above, it will be confiscated. Wrinkle release sprays work great.

Judith Eve, loves to write riveting articles on crusingtonpost.com. She hails from the sun-kissed regions of South Florida, residing within a stone’s throw of the bustling Fort Lauderdale and Miami cruise ports. As a native Floridian, Judith’s love for the ocean and cruising extends as far back as her memory can recall.

Her lifelong passion for travel has taken her to countless destinations around the globe, but cruising, undeniably, holds a special place in her heart. Judith has embraced the elegance of luxury liners, relished the intimacy of boutique ships, and marveled at the innovation found on the newest megaships. This varied experience makes her a well-rounded and knowledgeable commentator on everything cruise-related.

Balancing her writing career and family life with effortless grace, Judith is happily married, mother to two wonderful children, and a doting grandmother to three grandkids. Much like Judith, her family shares her enthusiasm for the sea, often accompanying her on cruise adventures and enriching her articles with their unique perspectives.

Her work for crusingtonpost.com provides readers with insightful, engaging narratives of her travels, from vivid descriptions of the picturesque locales she visits to in-depth reviews of the cruise lines she travels with. Her writing is not only an exploration of travel and cruising; it is a testament to her zest for life, her commitment to family, and her love for the ocean.

Endearing herself to readers with her warm, personable writing style, Judith has become a trusted voice in the cruising community. She is the go-to source for tips, advice, and comprehensive information on cruising. As a tireless explorer and devoted family woman, Judith Eve embodies the essence of the adventurous spirit, inspiring readers to set sail and create their own sea stories.

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How to Sneak a Steamer on a Cruise

A steamer can enhance your cruise experience by quickly removing wrinkles from clothes and helping you look sharp at dinners, photos, and events. This means you can have an enjoyable time while staying stylish throughout your trip.

Remember the right size, packing methods, and safety guidelines to sneak a steamer on a cruise. A small travel steamer works best for this, as it’s light and easy to pack. Following safety rules protects your belongings and fellow passengers. Packing your steamer cleverly, like between clothes or in storage compartments, can also make boarding less stressful.

Explore our smart tips for bringing a steamer on a cruise. Enjoy a wrinkle-free vacation with a crisp wardrobe on board.

Choose a compact steamer

A compact steamer is a wise choice, particularly for a cruise vacation. With the proper steamer, you can keep your clothes looking great while saving luggage space. Picture yourself keeping your clothes pristine during your cruise and attending fancy dinners and events confidently.

A small steamer is easy to get on board and can be hidden in your cabin without an issue. Plus, this travel-ready gadget eliminates pricey and time-consuming ironing services on the ship.

Consider the steamer’s size and weight to ensure it’s portable and suitable for travel. A lightweight design is needed not only for packing but also for simple use when refreshing your clothes. Also, consider water tank capacity and heating time – elements that lead to efficient steaming without constant refilling or long waits.

Disassemble the steamer

Taking apart the steamer is an intelligent way to bring a helpful appliance on a cruise without getting noticed. Cruise lines typically enforce strict rules for carrying specific devices, but by separating the steamer into its parts, you can easily sneak it through security.

Once you’re in your cabin, reassemble the steamer and enjoy wrinkle-free clothing. This way, you can feel self-assured and fashionable throughout your journey and attend various events without fretting about wrinkled outfits.

Pay attention to specific parts of the appliance to properly disassemble your steamer for a cruise. Firstly, ensure it has detachable components that are small enough to be hidden individually. A foldable handle or removable water tank makes packing easier.

Be careful of tiny screws or other small items that could get lost in your luggage – store them in a ziplock bag or similar container. Also, think about how simple it is to put the device back together once on board. Time tends to be precious on vacation, so an effortless assembly process is worth considering for this creative endeavour.

Place it in your luggage

Tuck a steamer in your luggage to bring it on a cruise. Fit your small steamer into your luggage, hiding it among clothes and other items like an everyday travel accessory.

For the best hiding experience, choose a small and lightweight model to save space in your luggage. This makes it easier to hide and leaves more room for other things.

Use a toiletry bag for attachments

Using a toiletry bag for attachments is a clever way to sneak a steamer on a cruise. A quality toiletry bag keeps attachments safe, organized, and easy to pack. Choose one that blends in with your luggage to draw less attention during bag checks.

When selecting the ideal toiletry bag for attachments, consider some features. First, look at the bag’s size and material. Be sure it can hold all the attachments without being too bulky or taking up too much room in your luggage.

Waterproof and durable materials protect your attachments from damage or leaks. Next, think about how the inside of the toiletry bag is organized – compartments and pockets help keep attachments sorted and accessible.

Bring extension cords

Cruise cabins usually have only a few electrical outlets, so using an extension cord makes it easy to plug in your steamer. This will enable you to get wrinkle-free clothes for fancy dinners or events.

Choose a compact and lightweight cord that won’t take up luggage space. Look for surge protection to protect your devices from power issues during the cruise. Ensure the cord matches your steamer’s plug type, especially on international cruises with different sockets. Lastly, pick cords with multiple outlets for extra flexibility.

Steam clothes in cabin bathroom

Steaming clothes in your cabin bathroom can be a lifesaver on cruises when you need to look sharp. Limited packing room might prevent you from bringing a steamer, but don’t worry! Use your bathroom as a steam room to keep your clothes fresh and wrinkle-free without steamers aboard.

Make sure you have the right hangers for your outfits to hang safely. Hang the clothes in the bathroom before a hot shower so steam smooths wrinkles. Leave enough space between each item for steam to reach all fabric areas. Finally, avoid overstuffing the bathroom, as it may reduce steaming efficiency.

Avoid mentioning steamer to staff

Not mentioning a steamer to cruise staff is a smart move to bring one on board without raising suspicions. Many cruises don’t allow personal steamers for safety reasons, so keeping it low-key ensures you can use it for wrinkle-free clothes during the trip. This clever approach also helps maintain privacy and independence on the ship.

To pull off this trick, learn the signs and know how to act. Pack your steamer discreetly in your luggage for a smooth check-in process. On the cruise, employ sneaky tactics to carry and use your device without attracting attention from other passengers or crew. Choose a private spot like your room or a quiet corner away from busy areas to use your steamer.

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• First Time Cruisers

Can I bring a travel steamer?

By bonbon663 , June 23, 2006 in First Time Cruisers

Recommended Posts

I'm going on Celebrity next month, can I bring a travel steamer? I also hear the onboard hair dryers are garbage, should I bring my own?

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Yes, you can bring a steamer. I bring my own blowdryer. I have short hair, but the dryers on RCI have the darned button that you have to hold down. I don't remember what kind of blowdryers are on Celebrity, but I would pack yours if I were you. What is one more thing? ;)

I almost always take along my blowdryer and yes, you can bring a travel steamer.

The dryers on Celebrity are useless - take your own

I'm going on Celebrity next month, can I bring a travel steamer? I also hear the onboard hair dryers are garbage, should I bring my own?     Thanks

bring the steamer and an extension cord just in case ;)

I always bring my own hairdryer and a steamer. (Even though Princess has irons available I find the steamer to be easier on formal gowns.) I also bring along a travel alarm as I like to have a clock in my cabin and you can't ever be sure you can get one and an extension cord!

Oreck makes a wonderful (and small) travel steamer, very inexpensive.

Thanks for the tip on Oreck, there is a store right around the corner from work, I will check it out.

Pack your clothes in dry cleaner bags, you may find you don't need a steamer at all. I have a Rowenta travel steamer and I love it, but no longer take it along.

I've only been on one Celebrity cruise, onboard Infinity and I'm very glad I took my own blow dryer. The one they had was the type that was like a vacuum cleaner hose, some people in our party used theirs and said the hose got too hot to hold, you had to wrap it in a washcloth. Add to the fact that it's in the bathroom, with all the steam in there, my hair would be a disaster. Long story long, take your own.

This topic is now archived and is closed to further replies.

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Can I bring an iron or clothes steamer onboard a Royal Caribbean cruise ship?

Irons and clothes steamers are prohibited items and should not be brought with you on your vacation.

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How To Sneak A Steamer On A Cruise

• Experiences
• October 25, 2023

Ahoy there, fellow adventure seekers! Ever dreamed of luxuriating in the relaxation and rejuvenation of a spa steam room while sailing the high seas? Well, fret not, because I’ve got a little secret to share with you. In this article, I will divulge some clever tips and tricks on how to discreetly sneak a steamer on a cruise. Prepare to sail away into a world of ultimate pampering, all while evading those pesky cruise ship regulations. So grab your towels and brace yourselves for some steamy adventures ahead!

Table of Contents

Planning and Preparation

Research Cruise Line Policies

Before attempting to sneak a steamer onto a cruise, it’s crucial to thoroughly research the policies and regulations of the cruise line you’ll be traveling with. Different companies have different rules regarding prohibited items, and it’s important to familiarize yourself with these guidelines to avoid any unwanted attention or penalties. Take the time to visit the cruise line’s website or contact their customer service to get accurate and up-to-date information.

Choose the Right Steamer

When it comes to sneaking a steamer onboard, size matters. Look for a compact and lightweight steamer that can easily fit into your luggage without raising suspicion. Opt for steamers with collapsible handles or detachable parts to make them more discreet. Additionally, consider steamers that operate quietly to minimize the chances of attracting attention while using them in your cabin.

Pack Discreetly

To avoid arousing any suspicion from cruise staff or security, it’s essential to pack your steamer discreetly alongside your regular belongings. Avoid placing it in plain sight or using obvious steamer bags that might raise questions during security checks. Instead, opt for a padded case or wrap the steamer in clothing to camouflage it among your other personal items. The key is to blend in and appear like any other regular passenger.

Consider Alternative Options

If the idea of sneaking a steamer onto a cruise seems too risky or stressful, consider alternative options for refreshing your clothing while onboard. Most modern cruise ships offer laundry services for a fee, allowing you to have your clothes cleaned and pressed professionally. Additionally, some ships even provide self-service laundry facilities, which can be a convenient and legitimate way to handle your steaming needs without breaking any rules.

Clothing and Accessories

Select concealable clothing.

When planning what to wear during your cruise, choose clothing items that can discreetly conceal smaller personal items, such as a steamer. Opt for garments with hidden pockets or compartments that can easily accommodate the size of your steamer. Look for clothing made of wrinkle-resistant fabric, as it will require less steaming overall and make the process easier to manage.

Use Hidden Pockets and Compartments

In addition to selecting clothing with concealed storage options, make full use of those hidden pockets and compartments. These discrete spaces can be perfect for safely stashing your steamer while you’re on the move or enjoying activities around the ship. Just be mindful not to overload or misplace your items, as it can be easy to forget where you stowed your steamer in the heat of the moment.

Opt for Compact Accessories

When it comes to accessories, choose ones that serve multiple purposes and take up minimal space. Instead of packing a bulky ironing board, consider purchasing a compact and foldable travel ironing board that can easily fit inside your luggage. Similarly, opt for mini clothes hangers that are collapsible or have a thinner profile, allowing for more efficient use of storage space in your cabin.

In-Cabin Techniques

Unpack strategically.

Once onboard, it’s essential to unpack your belongings strategically to maintain a low profile. Avoid displaying any suspicious items, such as the steamer, in plain sight. Instead, find discrete areas within your cabin to store your steamer, such as inside your luggage or within the compartments of your wardrobe. By keeping it out of sight, you reduce the chances of attracting unwanted attention from staff or fellow passengers.

Create a Diversion

To buy yourself some extra time and privacy while steaming your clothes, create a diversion that can distract any potential onlookers. For instance, playing soft background music or turning on the TV can help mask the sound of the steamer. Moreover, closing your cabin curtains or using a Do Not Disturb sign can give the illusion that you are busy or resting, discouraging any unwanted interruptions while you attend to your steaming needs.

Use Safe Disguises

If you’re concerned about privacy and potentially bumping into staff or fellow passengers while carrying your steamer, consider disguising it as a different item altogether. For example, you could place the steamer inside a large coffee tumbler or wrap it in a towel, making it appear like a harmless object rather than a steamer. This clever trick can help you move around the ship with ease and without attracting too much attention.

Timing and Priorities

Choose the right time.

Timing is everything when sneaking a steamer onto a cruise. Aim to perform your steaming activities during periods of low foot traffic, such as early mornings or late evenings when most passengers are occupied with other ship activities. By choosing these quieter moments, you decrease the chances of being caught or inadvertently drawing unnecessary attention to your steaming endeavors.

Identify Priority Days

During a cruise, certain days are typically busier than others, like special event nights or formal evenings. Use these priority days to your advantage when planning to steam your clothes. On these occasions, the ship’s staff may be preoccupied with other tasks, making it easier for you to get away with your steaming activities unnoticed. Just be sure to exercise caution and remain aware of your surroundings.

Be Aware of Surveillance

Cruise ships utilize a range of surveillance systems to ensure the safety and security of all passengers. While attempting to sneak a steamer onboard, it’s important to be mindful of these surveillance cameras and personnel. Avoid using the steamer in common areas or near security blind spots, as you don’t want to inadvertently raise suspicion or alarm. Always prioritize your own safety and security when engaging in any sneaking activities aboard the ship.

Security Bypass Methods

Utilize blind spots.

Every ship has areas that are less frequently monitored by surveillance cameras or staff members. These areas, often referred to as blind spots, can be ideal locations to discreetly use your steamer. Try to familiarize yourself with these blind spots during your time onboard. However, always exercise caution and stay within the boundaries of legality and safety.

Explore Service Entrances

Service entrances and corridors are generally less crowded and closely monitored than public areas on a cruise ship. Taking advantage of these less busy spaces can provide you with more privacy and reduce the chances of being caught while using your steamer. Just remember to stay respectful and avoid restricted areas to ensure the safety of yourself and others.

Coordinate with Staff

Building a friendly relationship with the cruise ship’s staff can be incredibly advantageous when trying to sneak a steamer onboard. Engaging in casual conversations, expressing interest in their work, or even offering small tokens of appreciation can help establish rapport and potentially lead to their discretion or assistance if you find yourself in a tight spot. However, always remember to stay respectful and never compromise their integrity or your own safety.

Interaction with Staff

Establish friendly relationships.

Creating positive connections with the cruise ship’s staff is not only beneficial for bypassing security measures, but it also enhances your overall experience onboard. Interact with the crew members with genuine respect and friendliness. Ask about their day, show appreciation for their hard work, and engage in conversations that foster a sense of camaraderie. These genuine relationships can potentially provide you with inside information or discreet assistance during your steaming endeavors.

Practice Subtle Bribery

In some situations, offering small tokens of gratitude or monetary tips to staff members can help smooth the process of sneaking a steamer onboard. However, it’s crucial to follow the rules and regulations set by the cruise line, as well as local laws, when it comes to giving gratuities. Use your judgment and be discreet in your approach, making sure not to compromise the integrity of yourself or the staff members.

Learn from Crew Members

The cruise ship’s staff often possesses valuable insights and knowledge about the ship’s layout, schedules, and practices. Engage in friendly conversations with crew members and listen attentively to their experiences and advice. They may unknowingly share helpful tips or information that can aid you in your quest to sneak a steamer onboard. Keep in mind that the success of your endeavors relies on maintaining ethical boundaries and ensuring the safety and security of all involved parties.

Group Strategies

Form a sneaking team.

Sneaking a steamer on a cruise can be made easier and more enjoyable by working together with trusted friends or family members. By forming a sneaking team, you can support one another, share responsibilities, and increase the chances of success. Assign different roles within the team, such as lookout, distraction creator, or logistics coordinator, to optimize the planning and execution process.

Coordinate Efforts

Effective communication and coordination are paramount when executing group strategies to bypass cruise ship security measures. Develop a system of signals or discreet gestures to convey important information between team members. Establish a clear plan of action, allocate specific tasks to each team member, and rehearse the execution to ensure flawless cooperation during the steaming process.

Use Distraction Techniques

Distraction techniques can come in handy when attempting to sneak a steamer onboard as part of a group. While one team member engages in the act of steaming, others can create intentional distractions elsewhere on the ship to divert the attention of staff or other passengers. This strategy helps to minimize the risk of detection and maximizes the chances of a successful steaming operation.

Onshore Opportunities

Exploit port days.

One way to avoid the need for sneaking a steamer onto a cruise is to take advantage of port days. When the ship is docked at various destinations, there are often opportunities to find local laundromats or laundry services. Utilize these opportunities to get your clothes professionally cleaned and steamed, ensuring you always have fresh attire without the need for sneaking.

Seek Off-Site Laundromats

If the ship’s laundry services are too expensive or don’t meet your needs, consider exploring the surrounding areas during port days to find off-site laundromats. Research the locations of these facilities before your trip and plan your schedule accordingly. This way, you can conveniently access laundry services at a fraction of the cost compared to onboard options, while also experiencing the local culture and exploring the destination.

Disposal Methods

Disassemble the steamer.

When it’s time to disembark from the cruise, it’s crucial to dispose of the evidence discreetly. Disassemble the steamer into smaller parts, reducing its size and making it less recognizable. Wrap each component separately in tissue or plastic bags to avoid triggering any concerns during security checks. By breaking down the steamer, you can neatly pack it away and dispose of it without raising suspicions.

Dispose of Evidence Offboard

To ensure a seamless and risk-free disposal, plan to get rid of the disassembled steamer off the cruise ship. Look for appropriate disposal options, such as public trash bins or designated recycling facilities, once you reach your designated port. Dispose of the evidence responsibly, in accordance with local regulations, and avoid leaving any trace or suspicion behind.

Risks and Consequences

Understand the consequences.

It’s essential to understand and accept the potential consequences that come with attempting to sneak a steamer onto a cruise. Cruise companies implement security measures to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all passengers, and any attempt to breach these measures can result in significant penalties or even legal troubles. Weigh the risks against the benefits and make an informed decision while considering the potential implications.

Assess Your Personal Risks

Personal circumstances and factors unique to each individual can impact the risks associated with sneaking a steamer onto a cruise. Assess your own situation and consider factors such as previous interactions with the cruise line, your personal reputation, or any potential consequences that could impact your future travel plans. It’s essential to analyze these risks and make a decision that aligns with your personal values and priorities.

Consider the Moral Implications

While attempting to sneak a steamer onto a cruise may seem like a harmless act, it’s important to consider the moral implications of your actions. Breaking rules and regulations may have ethical consequences that extend beyond the immediate situation. Evaluate the potential harm to yourself, fellow passengers, and the reputation of the cruise industry as a whole before deciding whether or not to pursue this course of action.

In conclusion, sneaking a steamer onto a cruise requires careful planning, preparation, and consideration of the risks involved. From researching cruise line policies to employing group strategies, there are various methods and techniques to increase the chances of success. However, it’s important to weigh these strategies against the potential consequences and moral implications before attempting to sneak a steamer onboard.

I'm John Phay, the author behind TravelLooking.com. With a deep passion for travel and exploration, I created this platform to share tips and experiences that will enhance your trips. As your passport to adventure, my aim is to guide you through the world's most captivating destinations and provide insider travel knowledge to ensure your trips are nothing short of amazing. From answering commonly asked questions to suggesting exciting activities and delectable dining spots, I'm here to make your travel planning smooth and hassle-free. Come join me on this inspiring journey and let's start crafting your next remarkable adventure together.

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Are Travel Irons On Cruise Ships Really Forbidden? Know Your Best Options.

By: Author Tyler Bowman

Posted on Last updated: October 14, 2023

Categories Amenities , LEARN , ONBOARD EXPERIENCE

When you have packed several days or weeks of clothes into your cruise luggage , keeping your clothes looking presentable and (relatively) wrinkle-free can be challenging. Thankfully there are several options available to all cruisers.

Generally, travel irons on cruise ships are prohibited. Any you won’t find any cruise approved steamers either. These items present a potential fire hazard. While using a travel iron in your cabin is not permitted, you have other cruise ship laundry options that can address your needs.

There is no reason you can’t have impeccably wrinkle-free clothing throughout your stay on a cruise ship. Keep reading to get details on your options.

Can You Bring Travel Irons On Cruise Ships?

Travel irons are one of many restricted items for use on cruise ships because irons present a potential fire hazard. As you can imagine, an iron left unattended in a stateroom could be a serious recipe for disaster that cruise lines would like to avoid at all costs.

We are aware of only one cruise line that potentially permits passengers to bring travel irons on the ship: Marella Cruises(owned by Tui Cruises). Marella permits guests to bring travel irons onto the ship, but it reserves the right to confiscate any irons determined to be a safety hazard. Confiscated items will be returned at the end of your cruise.

Even though you are largely prohibited from packing your travel iron, you don’t have to resign yourself to a vacation filled with wrinkled clothes. Depending on the cruise line, you will have several options available. Some cruise lines provide self-service laundry facilities, which in addition to a laundry room with washers and dryers, will contain irons and ironing boards for passenger use. While the washers and dryers usually have a charge, the ironing equipment typically does not.

Most cruise lines also offer professional ship laundry services such as dry-cleaning and pressing to ensure your clothes return to you in perfect condition. Usually, these services will come at an extra expense.

Can You Bring A Steamer On A Cruise Ship?

Most cruise lines treat clothes steamers the same way they treat travel irons: They are prohibited. They will be confiscated if found.

Alternatives To Using A Travel Iron Or Clothes Steamer On A Cruise

Wrinkle-free or wrinkle-resistant clothing.

One of the best ways to eliminate the need for clothing irons is to bring only the type of clothing that does not require ironing. This type of clothing exists, and there are many wrinkle-resistant fabrics on the market.

Several clothing manufacturers produce travel clothing made out of wrinkle-resistant fabric to ensure you do not need to do any ironing. However, these clothes generally perform best when placed in a dryer, and you may not have easy access to a dryer on a cruise ship.

Suppose travel clothing is not your style – which tends to be casual and somewhat unfashionable. In that case, you can opt for normal clothing made out of wrinkle-resistant fabric. For these purposes, some of the best fabrics include polyester, nylon, acrylic, and olefin.

Suppose you prefer natural fabrics such as cotton or linen. In that case, you can find these fabrics blended with synthetics that will be far less prone to creasing and wrinkling, especially if you opt for a knit or stretch fabric instead of non-stretch woven material.

Wrinkle-Release Spray

Wrinkle-releasing sprays such as Downy Release are an excellent way to de-wrinkle your clothing before wearing it. While this chemical method may not be as effective as ironing, it will still serve its purpose to a large degree.

Advanced Dry-Cleaning

Alternatively, you can have your clothing dry-cleaned before packing and request that they do a heavy starching on the fabrics. Leave these clothing items in their dry-cleaning bags, roll them up while still in the bags, and then pack them carefully. This packing method will ensure that the clothes are as crease-free as possible when you unpack them in your stateroom.

Shower Steam

The old steamy shower trick is another option that can be extremely effective. The best way to steam your clothing without a steamer is to run the shower at the highest temperature possible for around two minutes. Next, hang the clothing in the shower, and leave the room while ensuring that you close it up properly to keep in as much heat and steam as possible.

Typically, cruise lines permit hair dryers and other hair tools like flat irons on board. Thus, a hair straightener can be used as an alternative to a travel iron and is especially useful for items such as collars and cuffs on shirts. 

A hairdryer can be used similarly to eliminate creases or wrinkles from your clothing quickly. You can use the hairdryer after applying a wrinkle-release spray to enhance the effect of both methods.

Packing To Prevent Wrinkled Clothing

You can also use several time-tested packing hacks to prevent or minimize wrinkles.

A hard-shelled suitcase is another brilliant idea to keep your clothes free of wrinkles when traveling. Soft suitcases tend to allow the clothes inside them to be squashed, causing pressure which results in creases and wrinkles.

Do not overpack your suitcases, as this pressure will also cause wrinkles in your clothing. When folding your clothes, fold them in bundles so that there are fewer small folds. Start by folding your smaller items in the middle; then, fold your larger items over them until you have a neat bundle of folded clothing.

Packing cubes can be purchased at many stores. These smart devices will help prevent wrinkles while saving space in your luggage.

When it comes to formal items, stuff the bodices and shoulders with tissue paper to help them retain their stiffness and reduce the chances of wrinkles or creases.

Most importantly, remember to unpack and hang your clothing as soon as possible once you have entered your stateroom. The more time your clothes spend in your luggage, the higher the chance of them becoming wrinkled.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do royal caribbean cruises have irons.

Royal Caribbean does not provide irons in cruise ship cabins due to safety concerns. However, pressing services are available through the ship’s laundry facilities.

Are there irons on Carnival Cruise?

Carnival does not provide irons in cruise ship cabins. However, most Carnival ships have self-service launderettes which will have an iron and an ironing board.

Can you bring a curling iron on a cruise?

Most major cruise lines will permit common grooming items such as curling irons. However, if it is being used in an unsafe manner, it may be confiscated until the end of the cruise. (Example: Leaving the curling iron on when you exit the cabin.)

While most cruise lines prohibit bringing any form of iron or steamer onto the ship, there are, fortunately, several ways to ensure your clothing remains wrinkle-free throughout your cruise. Besides the range of methods you can employ to ensure your clothes remain wrinkle-free, you can also use the laundry services and the launderettes on board.

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Tested and reviewed: the best travel steamer to pack in your suitcase

By Erinne Magee

Even the most seasoned travellers open their suitcase after landing and find themselves with a daunting task ahead: deciding if their wrinkled clothes can get by with a thorough shake out or if reinforcements are needed.

Of course, most hotel rooms are equipped with irons, but the task of setting up the ironing board can feel overwhelming. Not to mention, some hotel irons aren't so trustworthy, while some fabrics are too delicate for harsh heat. Enter our swanky new friend, the travel steamer.

When I set out to find the best travel steamer, I admit, I was hesitant about such a practical item taking up precious carry-on space. But when travelling as a family of four, as I often do, an ironing board set-up can quickly become a catch-all for toys, shopping bags, or electronics and simply get in the way. After testing these steamers, I’ll be leaving the iron tucked away.

Of the 10 steamers tested, my favourite models had one thing in common: a metal soleplate, allowing you to touch the steamer to the clothing to smooth out tricky spots. While steamers are mostly celebrated for their ability to get wrinkles out, they also kill 99.9 per cent of bacteria. Important to note, most steamers come with the recommendation of distilled water to keep the sediment buildup at bay, which I did not use as most of us don’t have easy access to it when we travel.

Each steamer has been tested and reviewed on jeans, khakis, t-shirts, button-down shirts, blouses, and jackets based on the following criteria:

• Size/packability : Does it fit into a weekender or carry-on ?
• Power/efficiency: Is it faster and easier than setting up and using the hotel iron? Or at least just as good?
• Water capacity: How many times do you have to refill the reservoir to steam an entire outfit?
• Leakproof: Will you be late to dinner while waiting for the wet spots to dry?
• Durability/longevity : Is the quality going to withstand enough trips to make the steamer worth packing and purchasing?

Which is the best travel steamer?

The design here is just smart. The steamer weighs less than 500 grams, but produces a solid stream of steam. With a small reservoir, I was surprised the water lasted for almost 10 minutes, allowing for five items to be de-wrinkled (though it was not powerful enough for jeans). There is a button to turn the steam on, but you don’t have to hold it down, which I appreciated. The metal soleplate allows for an ironing option, which is what I ended up using to smooth out the jeans. An adjustable head not only makes the seamer compact but gives you the option to steam at different angles. I did wonder if frequent adjusting of the head would loosen the feature, but the steamer seems to be quite solid and well-made. The unit also comes with a wall mount so you always have a place to hang the garment at home.

Weight: 0.3 kg

Size : 22.6 x 7.9 x 4.2cm

Pros -Lightweight and packable -Adjustable head -Comes with wall mount -Powerful

Cons -Works best on lighter fabrics only

Can I travel with a portable steamer?

Most travel steamers will fit into your carry-on and can go through airport security without any issues; just make sure any remaining liquid from the reservoir has been emptied before getting to the airport.

Is a portable steamer worth it?

If you are going to a formal event such as a destination wedding or know you’re packing clothes that are famous for wrinkling, then yes, it's worth adding to your suitcase. As someone who typically only uses a carry-on unless travelling with family, I do value my space and find the steamer to be an easy item to remove should I be running short on room.

What is the lightest travel steamer?

The Nesugar steamer weighs less than a pound, which inched it ahead of the Conair Turbo (weighing in at about 900 grams and measuring 33cm long) in overall rating.

More steamers I tested

Of the 10 steamers I tested out, these are the others I would recommend, with caveats:

Leave it to Swedish brand Steamery to create not just one of the most effective hand-held steamers on the market, but also the most aesthetically pleasing. Their latest style is a slick-looking steamer and iron in one. The tool heats up quickly with just one button and the power is impressive – I was able to steam a couple of crinkled silk dresses in a matter of minutes. It also comes with a wearable heat-protecting ironing mitt so it's really easy to remove every crease. Overall it's not just great for travel, but can easily replace your iron at home. If you're hand luggage only, this one may be a little on the heavier side, but if you're travelling with check-in luggage, the minimalist design is easy to store amongst your other items. They also make a fabric spray that is brilliant for keeping clothes smelling fresh when you're travelling. Lauren Burvill

Weight: 0.86 kg

Size : 24.6 x 14 x 8cm

Pros Pros -Can dewrinkle anything  -Can stand on its own -Quick heat-up

Cons -On the heavier side for travel

The Conair is definitely a winner in terms of power and functionality — a t-shirt can be good as new in less than a minute. While the steamer can blast wrinkles from jackets, you can also lower the setting for more delicate items. The Conair turbo is the only steamer I tested that had various settings to choose from. It even has a built-in creaser, if that’s your thing.

Because the steamer is more powerful, it uses more water, so refills are necessary after a few items (depending on the fabric and intensity of the wrinkles, of course). The Conair Turbo would’ve taken top spot if it were more compact for travelling. If you find yourself using an iron a lot at home, this steamer may actually be your best bet.

Weight: 1.38kg

Size : 34.5 x 21.4 x 14.4 cm

Pros -Can dewrinkle anything  -Various settings to choose from -Quick heat-up

Cons -Hard to fill with small opening -On the larger side for travel

At first, I was wondering if I had a faulty unit because it took several minutes for this steamer to heat up, which felt like an eternity compared to others. Once it was ready to go, though, the steam was quite efficient as long as the material wasn’t too thick (button-down shirts worked fine, but nothing heavier). Again, the metal plate comes in handy for more stubborn wrinkles. You have the option to lock the steamer into a continuous stream or control the trigger for smaller bursts (this helps save water in between items, too).

Weight: 1.19kg

Size : 28.5 x 12.5 x 12.5 cm

Pros -Metal plate -Option for continuous steam or manual

Cons - Longer heat up time -Won't tackle jeans or heavier garments -Heavy

International travellers will be happy about the automatic dual voltage with this steamer. While the heat up is quick (about 20 seconds), the reservoir of the steamer is painfully hot so be sure to only hold on to the handle. Unfortunately, the high temperature of the reservoir requires a pause between fill-ups, but you can get three items done with one tank. My favourite feature is the automatic steam from the get-go, which means your fingers get a rest from holding down the trigger button that comes with many other steamers. The main reason this steamer remains on the final list is for its appeal to those who frequently travel abroad.

Weight: 0.5kg

Size : 24.1 x 11.4 x 11.4 cm

Pros -Collapsible handle for travel -Automatic heat-up (no power button) -No trigger needed to release steam

Cons -Cannot promptly refill reservoir because the tank gets so hot

This article was originally published on Condé Nast Traveler US .

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• Irons & Steamers
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Starter Kit Clothes Steamer, Cruise Ship Approved Travel Steamer, Electricity Free Wrinkle Release, Mini Steamer, 3 Pods, 1 Bag Insta Steam

Purchase options and add-ons, about this item.

• InstaSteam is the world's first electricity-free & hands-free mini travel steamer. (Please see below for InstaSteam use guide for best results)
• Steams & Deodorizes your garments within minutes (1 GARMENT AT A TIME)
• No batteries or electricity needed. Eco-Friendly & All Natural Minerals.
• Portable, Cruise Ship & TSA approved for all travel plans.
• (3) InstaSteam Pods, (1) Regular Garment Bag (Longer garment bags available separately), & Instructions. *If you ever receive a kit from amazon that comes damaged or missing pieces, please let us know and we will send you an additional kit at no charge right away.

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What makes our product unique, why we love what we do, product description.

✔ EASY TO USE

InstaSteam is the world's only SUSTAINABLE & PORTABLE clothing steamer that requires NO ELECTRICITY & steams your clothes for you, within minutes.

PLEASE SEE BELOW FOR THE INSTASTEAM USE GUIDE FOR BEST RESULTS

* Does not replace dry cleaning. InstaSteam is a quick option for on-the-go and at-home use.

✔ SAFE FOR TRAVEL

Due to InstaSteam not using any electricity and being non-flammable, it is now the first-ever clothing steamer allowed aboard airplanes and CRUISE SHIPS ! (Authorized to bring by TSA when unopened and sealed in manufacturer packaging) InstaSteam is also small enough to fit in almost any pocket or space in your handbag, suitcase, or even jacket pocket! InstaSteam is extremely portable for traveling and easy to pack or store.

✔ PRESERVE & PROTECT

InstaSteam adds to the lifespan of your garments and can help you save on your dry cleaning bill. Many people are unaware of the damage their irons do to their clothing. While smoothing out wrinkles, the iron is actually crushing the fragile fibers of the textiles, causing irreparable damage to the cloth and shortening their lifespan. In addition, hot steam helps get rid of ODORS, BACTERIA, & GERMS present on clothing. Share this thoughtful gift all year round to the ones you love the most.

Every InstaSteam Pod we create is backed by unmatched craftsmanship and quality, ensuring satisfaction for each of our customers.

Ordinary steamers tend to spurt or leak water, which can stain and even ruin your garments prior to use. With InstaSteam's innovative "2 in 1" design & packaging, our pods can safely and conveniently deliver fresh garments to our customers with each use.

✔ ALL NATURAL MINERALS & SUSTAINABLE

The natural mineral reaction causes water to be transformed into oxygen and hydrogen in the form of steam, which then fills the garment bag with steam relaxing the fibers in your clothing to safely smooth out and release the wrinkles. Once finished the InstaSteam minerals are no different from sand or salt and can be safely disposed of and the plastic is recyclable.

• 3 Instasteam Pod Treatments
• 1 InstaSteam Garment Bag (additional & longer garment bags available separately)
• Instruction Card

*If you ever receive a kit from amazon that comes damaged or missing pieces, please let us know and we will send you an additional free kit right away. At times packages may get damaged in the amazon warehouses or in transit.

InstaSteam Use Guide For Best Results (Please refer to the instruction card in the package for more detailed instructions on use & process)

How many pieces of clothing can be steamed in the garment bag at one time.

• InstaSteam suggests only putting 1 garment in the InstaSteam Garment Bag at a time for best results. If the InstaSteam Garment Bag is stuffed with too many pieces of clothing the steam will not be able to properly distribute around the clothing to get the wrinkles out. Add more clothing at your own discretion.
• Once the InstaSteam Pod is filled with water DO NOT zip lock the top of the Pod. Insert it at the middle-bottom of the hanging garment bag near the zipper with the Pod open.
• Once filled with water, the InstaSteam Pod will activate within approximately 30 seconds to 2 minutes depending on the water temperature and storage temperature of the InstaSteam Pod. You will be able to hear and see when the Pod activates inside the garment bag if standing nearby.
• Please allow at least 3-5 minutes to steam your clothing after activation. See below...

Guide: How Long To Steam Clothing?

• Light Materials = Appr. 3+ minutes - light button-down shirts, light/summer dresses, light pants, light skirts, etc.
• Normal Materials = Appr. 5+ minutes - non-light shirts, skirts, dresses, pants, light suits, light jackets, etc.
• Heavy/Thick Materials = Appr. 5-10+ minutes - Thick jackets, suits, dresses, pants, skirts, shirts, clothing with a lot of material, etc.
• For thicker and really wrinkled clothing you may add 2 Pods, one on each side of the garment bag for double steam.
• All times are estimated and may vary depending on the type of clothing. You may know your clothing best and can determine the best steam time.
• For clothing that is naturally wrinkled or creased and does not normally steam or iron well, InstaSteam may not work either.

InstaSteam Benefits

• Sustainable
• Electricity-Free
• Cruise Ship & TSA Approved
• Extremely Small For Easy Packing
• Disposable & Cost Effective
• Effortless & Hands-Free
• Non-Flammable

Product details

• Is Discontinued By Manufacturer ‏ : ‎ No
• Package Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 10.04 x 8.39 x 1.89 inches; 10.08 ounces
• Date First Available ‏ : ‎ October 8, 2018
• Manufacturer ‏ : ‎ Pristeam Products, LLC
• ASIN ‏ : ‎ B07J4631K6
• #135 in Travel Garment Steamers

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Important information

Legal disclaimer.

-Read all instructions and warnings before use.<br/> -This appliance is not intended for use by persons (including children) with reduced physical, sensory, or mental capabilities, or lack of experience and knowledge unless they are closely supervised and instructed concerning the use of the appliance by a person responsible for their safety. -Close supervision is necessary when any appliance is used by or near children under the age of 17. Children should be supervised to ensure that they do not play with or use the appliance. <br/>-Only use a garment steamer/ InstaSteam for its intended use.<br/> -It is preferable to hang the Garment Holder close to where you will fill the InstaSteam Pod with water.<br/> -The InstaSteam Pod must not be left unattended while it is outside of the Garment Holder.<br/> -The InstaSteam Pod may only be used in the InstaSteam Garment Holder. <br/>-This device produces heat and steam when in contact with water, use with caution.<br/> -Contents inside the bag get extremely hot instantly when activated. DO NOT PUT HAND IN OR OVER THE OPENING OF THE POD. <br/>-The Garment Holder must be hung from a secure hook or rod.<br/> -InstaSteam is not intended to be used with all materials. Certain materials like silk, satin, and leather may get ruined by water moisture. Please check tags on your clothing to insure that are suitable to be steamed. -Serious burns may result from exposure to hot water or steam while the InstaSteam Pod is activated. Use extreme caution to keep hands away from any openings.<br/> -NEVER turn the InstaSteam Pod upside down. Contents are extremely hot, and skin or eye contact with the minerals may cause an allergic reaction or blindness.<br/> -All of the water must be poured out of the InstaSteam Pod before disposing of. <br/>-NEVER remove any of the contents inside the InstaSteam Pod before or after use. Minerals may cause an allergic reaction to the skin. In case of contact with eyes, rinse immediately and seek medical advice.<br/> -Keep away from any electrical equipment. -You may notice very minor wet spots on your clothing. If so, simply hang your garment outside the Garment Holder to dry. InstaSteam does not stain clothing as it is just water.

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Customers like the quality, ease of use, and travel of the fabric softener. For example, they mention it's good enough for most purposes, easy to set up, and portable. That said, opinions are mixed on performance and value.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

Customers like the quality of the fabric softener. They say it's amazing, good enough for most purposes, and practical with great results. Some mention that the concept is good, but the practicality is not so great. Overall, most find the product to be worth the price and purchase.

"...world’s first electricity-free, hands-free clothing steamer, it works like magic , effortlessly smoothing wrinkles and deodorizing in just a few..." Read more

"...Definitely worth the price and purchase . Money well spent." Read more

"It works pretty good , it's not as good as the dry cleaner as some are suggesting but it's good enough for most purposes...." Read more

"...in and waited another 2 minutes and iit was still wet and with water splotches ...." Read more

Customers find the fabric softener easy to use, convenient, and practical. They say it's quick to set up and works well in a safe and quick manner. Customers also appreciate the clear instructions and the quick way to steam shirts.

"...The portability and ease of use make it an ideal at-home, no-contact solution...." Read more

"...However, I am so glad that I purchased this product. It is so easy to use and comes in handy when travelling - especially on cruises if you don't..." Read more

"It is easy to use and it does produce steam. I still noticed some wrinkles (thin silky type summer dress)...." Read more

"...It's very easy to use , light weight, and can be packed in your carry on bag. I highly recommend this product." Read more

Customers find the fabric softener portable and handy for travel. They say it's easy to use, light weight, and can be packed in a carry on bag. Customers also say it provides peace of mind that they'll be able to wear their suit.

"...This is a blessing for frequent business travelers like myself. The portability and ease of use make it an ideal at-home, no-contact solution...." Read more

"...It is so easy to use and comes in handy when travelling - especially on cruises if you don't want to pay laundry ironing charges...." Read more

"...It's very easy to use, light weight, and can be packed in your carry on bag . I highly recommend this product." Read more

"... travel with peace of mind that I’ll be able to wear my suit that will inevitably be wrinkled after the..." Read more

Customers like the steam produced by the fabric softener. They say it starts producing steam right away, and it does so in a safe and quick manner. Some say the garment bag stuck to the back and front of their garment.

"I'm going on a cruise and was excited to test this out. The steam started right away but the garment bag stuck to the back and front of my thin..." Read more

"It is easy to use and it does produce steam . I still noticed some wrinkles (thin silky type summer dress)...." Read more

"... Steams it really well in a safe and quick manner." Read more

" Insta steam is a must have !..." Read more

Customers are mixed about the performance of the fabric softener. Some mention that it works great, is easy to use, and effective. However, others say that it didn't work and a second time it didn’t produce any results.

"I was apprehensive but it really works just follow directions . I used it on my cruise...." Read more

" This Product Doesn't Work !! If you're steaming silk, then this will probably do the job. Any other fabric, take your items to the cleaners." Read more

"...But these pods are so much more effective and so much more convenient. I wish i found these sooner" Read more

"...Nothing happened. Tried it a second time but still no results . Really disappointed." Read more

Customers are mixed about the value of the fabric softener. Some mention it's a cost-effective option that eliminates the need to pay expensive cleaners bills. However, others say it'll be a waste of money and a bad product.

"...It's a relief to have a cost-effective option that eliminates the need to coordinate dry cleaning or struggle with ironing while on the go...." Read more

"...but get the garments wet, doesn’t take any wrinkles away at all, Waste of money ." Read more

"...Definitely worth the price and purchase. Money well spent ." Read more

"Concept good, practicality not so much ...." Read more

Customers are not happy with the wrinkles that the fabric softener leaves behind. They mention that it still leaves some wrinkles.

"...I waited 3 minutes, checked out the blouse and it was wet and still wrinkle ...." Read more

"...I also tried a t-shirt and it took out some wrinkles not all . Also the t-shirt had wet spots because inside of the bag is wet from the steam...." Read more

"...The only drawback is that you can’t get creases . Outside of that, it is genius!!" Read more

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The 7 Best Travel Steamers of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Wrinkles? We don't know them thanks to these tiny, yet powerful steamers

Emma Phelps is an Associate Commerce Editor at The Spruce, who specializes in bedding, home improvement, and home design. You'll find her byline on a variety of topics from Tempur-Pedic mattresses to percale sheets. She loves testing out the latest products in bedding and home cleaning solutions.

Emily Estep is a plant biologist and journalist who has worked for a variety of online news and media outlets, writing about and editing topics including environmental science and houseplants.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks

Another Option We Like

• How We Tested
• What to Look For
• Why Trust The Spruce

The Spruce / Leticia Almeida

There's nothing worse than realizing that you so carefully (or not-so carefully) packed clothes only to have them become a wrinkled mess during transit. While some hotels provide steam irons, Airbnbs or other vacation rental homes don't always supply that household tool. In such situations, especially if you're dealing with delicate fabrics, a travel steamer becomes an essential. These compact units are light enough to pack into a carry-on or duffel bag, yet they deliver powerful steam that eradicates all wrinkles from your clothes in just a few up-and-down motions.

While we haven't had the chance to test travel steamers in The Lab , we did conduct an at-home test with 29 clothes steamers of all kinds—travel steamers included. During this test, we measured each steamer's heat time, considered the water tank capacity, and evaluated the steamer's effectiveness against deep-set wrinkles. After all our testing, we can say: don't let a travel steamer's compact size fool you. Whether you're looking for crease-creating attachments or pocket-size devices, the models below are the best options to reach for when you're in a pinch—or should we say wrinkle?

Best Overall

True & tidy handheld garment steamer.

• Effectiveness 4 /5
• Design 5 /5
• Portability 4 /5

Very lightweight

Large stainless steel soleplate

See-through water tank

Tricky to fill water reservoir

Of all the travel steamers we tested, the True & Tidy Handheld Garment Steamer stood out the most and is the one to undeniably add to your suitcase. This colorful unit weighs just 1.5 pounds, and it breaks down into two pieces, making it extremely easy to stash in a bag of any size. We loved that its water reservoir is completely see-through, which allowed us to monitor exactly how much water was left. And it excelled in our testing, removing tough wrinkles with just a few passes, thanks to its powerful steam and stainless steel soleplate.

This travel steamer comes with a brush attachment that can help smooth fabric as you work, and it was ready to use in around two minutes. The handle stayed cool and comfortable for the duration of our testing, and the on-off rocker switch made the steamer simple and straightforward to operate. Our only woe when it comes to this travel steamer is that the water tank is a bit tricky to fill. You have to pour water in slowly. Otherwise, it backs up and overflows. However, beyond that one quirk, the product exceeded our expectations, earning perfect scores for design and value.

Dimensions:  6.5 x 4.13 x 8.62 inches | Weight: 1.43 pounds | Water Tank Capacity:  4.6 ounces | Power Level: 600 watts | Heat Time:  80 seconds | Steam Time:  10 minutes

The Spruce / Camryn Rabideau

Best Overall, Runner-Up

Pure enrichment portable garment steamer.

• Effectiveness 3 /5
• Design 4.5 /5
• Portability 5 /5

Long power cord

Easy to fill water tank

Not best for deep-set wrinkles

Need to refill tank when steaming multiple garments

A close runner-up is the Pure Enrichment PureSteam Portable Steamer. During testing, we found it was easy to twist off the top nozzle and fill the water tank—a process that wasn't so easy when using our "best overall" pick. Although, this steamer's compact size does mean you'll have to refill it if you have multiple garments to steam. But, we think it offers just enough steam time to finish at least one or two garments. Plus, the power cord is 8 feet long, making it easy to maneuver around your garment and navigate outlets in your hotel room or Airbnb.

This steamer is one of the lightest models we tested at just over 1 pound. It would easily fit into a suitcase or carry-on bag without making your bag overweight or taking up too much space. As is to be expected with smaller clothes steamers , this model isn't the best for eliminating deep wrinkles, but it did efficiently eliminate most wrinkles with just a few passes. All in all, if you're torn between our top recommendations, know that both models are easy to hold and operate, and quick to heat up.

Dimensions:  8 x 5.5 x 3.2 inches |  Weight:  1.13 pounds |  Water Tank Capacity:  4.4 ounces |  Power Level:  800 watts |  Heat Time:  2 minutes |  Steam Time:  10 minutes |  Steam Settings:  1

Best Budget

Black+decker easy garment steamer.

• Effectiveness 4.5 /5
• Design 4 /5

Slit in nozzle gives off impressive steam

Large, easy-to-fill water tank

Extremely effective at removing wrinkles

Somewhat bulky design

The great thing about travel steamers is they're typically quite budget-friendly, and one of the best values we found was the Black+Decker Easy Garment Steamer. Despite its low price, this steamer worked extremely well in our tests, removing wrinkles in just one or two passes. We loved that its nozzle has a slit-shaped opening, which allowed more steam to come out and helped deliver faster results.

This travel steamer takes about a minute to heat up, and there's a large window that lets you see into the water tank to monitor how much is left. The top of the unit twists off when you need more water, and we had no issues filling the water tank from the faucet. The steamer is slightly bulkier than other models we tested, but it's still compact enough to fit in a carry-on or another suitcase.

Dimensions:  8.15 x 3.7 inches | Weight: 1.9 pounds | Water Tank Capacity:  7.4 ounces | Power Level: 900 watts | Heat Time:  80 seconds | Steam Time:  8 minutes

Best Splurge

Beautural steamer for clothes.

• Value 3.5 /5

Includes several handy accessories

Great for creating creases

Longer steam time than average

Accessories allow you to do more with your travel steamer, and the Beautural Steamer comes with three handy attachments: a brush, a lint brush, and a crease clip. This steamer is on the larger side, making it slightly bulky to travel with, but in testing, we liked that it's able to remove most wrinkles within a few passes. We were also impressed with the crease clip, which made crisp, clean creases with just one pass.

The Beautural Steamer only takes a minute or so to heat up, and its water tank delivers up to 15 minutes of steam. We liked that it has a locking trigger for continuous steaming—the only thing we didn't like is that the water tank opening is tiny and awkwardly placed, making it tricky to fill without spilling.

Dimensions:  10.7 x 4.3 x 6 inches | Weight: 2 pounds | Water Tank Capacity:  8.8 ounces | Power Level: 1200 watts | Heat Time:  30 seconds | Steam Time:  15 minutes

Best Compact

Isteam steamer for clothes.

Release button for water tank

Can be used both horizontally and vertically

High-quality brush attachment

Not as effective in horizontal position

If you don't want to sacrifice any more suitcase space than is absolutely necessary, it's worth splurging on the iSteam Steamer. This sleek little device is one of the smallest we tested, yet it blew us away, heating up in less than a minute and delivering enough steam to remove wrinkles in just a few quick passes.

This steamer has a water tank mounted to the front, and an easy-to-press button releases the tank for filling. All of its pieces are made from thick, durable plastic, and we were even impressed with the quality of its brush attachment, which had significantly more bristles than other options. You can even use this steamer at an angle thanks to its no-drip design—though, we found it was less effective in a horizontal position, as the steam tends to taper off a bit.

Dimensions:  9.1 x 6.4 x 4.4 inches | Weight: 1.55 pounds | Water Tank Capacity:  4.1 ounces | Power Level: 900 watts | Heat Time:  25 seconds | Steam Time:  10 minutes

Best for Heavy Materials

Magicpro portable garment steamer.

• Effectiveness 4.3 /5
• Design 3.8 /5
• Value 4.5 /5

Strong steam production

Easy-to-operate trigger

Sturdy, durable form

Can be bulky in suitcase or bag

It generally holds true that the larger the steamer, the more power it packs. The MagicPro Portable Garment Steamer is an unbeatable model in terms of steam output, making it ideal for heavy fabrics like wool or denim. But, the major downside is that it's fairly bulky and takes up quite a bit of space in your suitcase. Still, we were wowed by this steamer, which has a water reservoir attached to the front of its sturdy, durable body. It was able to remove wrinkles in one to two passes, working significantly better than similarly-sized models and earning a perfect score for effectiveness.

The MagicPro Steamer has a trigger-style button that turns the steam off and on, and it automatically locks in, saving you from having to hold it down the whole time. It's ready to use after just one minute of heating—impressive for its size—and it comes with a brush attachment, as well as a lint brush.

Dimensions:  12.8 x 7.09 x 5.35 inches | Weight: 2.81 pounds | Water Tank Capacity:  10.1 ounces | Power Level: 120 watts | Heat Time:  25 seconds | Steam Time:  15 minutes

Best for Wedding Dresses and Delicate Items

Conair 2-in-1 garment steamer.

Heats up extremely fast

Four steam settings

Includes a variety of attachments

Oversized and bulky design

Doesn't work well horizontally

The last thing you want on your wedding day is to accidentally scorch your wedding dress—which is why we recommend the Conair Turbo Extreme Steam for delicate items. This steamer comes with a unique "delicates bonnet" attachment that helps to diffuse the steam, yet it doesn't hamper the unit's effectiveness. It was able to remove wrinkles from fabric in just a few passes in our testing, and we were impressed that it heated up in less than a minute, as well.

There's one major downside to this steamer, and that's its size. The unit is about 1 foot tall and weighs over 3 pounds, making it one of the largest options on this list. It wouldn't be good for frequent fliers who only travel with a carry-on, but we think it would come in handy at weddings or other special events, in particular.

Dimensions:  11.61 x 11.61 x 6.02 inches | Weight: 3.5 pounds | Water Tank Capacity:  8.5 ounces | Power Level: 1875 watts | Heat Time:  < 1 minute | Steam Time:  10 minutes

Final Verdict

To keep your clothes looking fresh on the road, we recommend the True & Tidy TS-10 Handheld Garment Steamer . This compact unit is extremely lightweight and easy to operate, and it delivers an impressive blast of steam that removes wrinkles fast. For a more budget-friendly option, we also like the Black+Decker HGS011F Easy Garment Steamer . While slightly larger, its unique slit opening gives off ample steam for tackling wrinkles in fabrics.

Bear Portable Handheld Clothes Steamer : We have not had a chance to formally test this steamer, but one of our editors, Mia Ingui , says she loves this steamer as a travel option because it's not too cumbersome in her luggage and it effectively removes wrinkles without requiring refills. Plus, it can double as a steam iron in a pinch! While she wishes this model had a power switch, it's still a solid steamer that's also well-designed.

How We Tested the Travel Steamers

We purchased and tested 29 clothes and travel steamers in one of our homes for several hours over the course of two months. To start, we unboxed and set up each steamer, noting how clear the instructions were and how intuitive the design of the steamer is. We noted whether it was durable and practical, and if the buttons were placed well. We also considered whether each model could be described as a stylish option, and if the steamer came with accessories like a case or a brush attachment.

Next, we evaluated the heat time of each steamer by timing with a phone stopwatch how long the water took to heat up. We then used wrinkled linen napkins to test the effectiveness of each steamer and try out all the settings. Throughout our use of the steamers, we asked ourselves the following questions: How quickly did the steamer remove the wrinkles? Did it take one pass, three passes, or five passes to remove them? Did the napkin feel damp afterward? We answered all of these questions before also rating the portability of the product, and noting how easy it was to hold or carry around. We put the travel steamer in a packed carry-on bag to see if it would be practical to pack it in a suitcase and if it drastically altered the weight of the bag.

Lastly, we applied our hands-on experience to rate the overall value of the product and decide if it's worth the money you'd spend on it. All of these insights were boiled down to this list of what we believe are the very best travel steamers.

What to Look for in a Travel Steamer

Heat and steam time.

When comparing different steamers, you'll want to look at their heat and steam times. The former indicates how long the unit takes to heat up and be ready for use, while the latter indicates how long the steamer runs when the tank is full. The longer the steam time, and the larger the water tank capacity, the more garments you can often de-wrinkle in one steaming session, without having to run to the sink to refill the tank.

"I like [a steamer] that has a decent amount of continuous run time—10 minutes, at least—so that you don't have to stop and refill several times," says Melissa Maker of Clean My Space. Our "best for heavy materials," the MagicPro Portable Garment Steamer , has a 15-minute steam time, which could allow you to easily steam a longer dress or multiple T-shirts. While travel steamers sometimes sacrifice steam time due to their small sizes and thus smaller water tanks, all of the models in our roundup have steam times just under or slightly over 10 minutes.

Size and Weight

A steamer's size not only impacts its steam time, but it also determines how packable it is in luggage. If you're going to be packing a steamer in your suitcase, it should ideally be compact and lightweight—otherwise, it will prevent you from packing other necessities. The unit's weight will also impact its usability. "A steamer should be a manageable weight, comfortable to hold, and nicely balanced, so it's not too top or bottom-heavy," says Maker. Our "best overall" pick, the True & Tidy TS-10 Handheld Garment Steamer , is very lightweight at just 1.5 pounds, and it can be separated into two pieces for even more packability.

Design Features

There are multiple design elements to keep in mind when picking out your travel steamer. Although a slimmer travel steamer is great to easily slip into a suitcase, it may be top-heavy and lack a handle, causing a greater risk of accidental burns and complicating the cool down process. For that reason, you want to look for a steamer that has a well-distributed design. Additionally, you should look for a steamer that has an easy-to-access water tank. Some options can be tricky to refill, while others may feature an easy-release button, such as our "best compact" pick, the iSteam Steamer . Our "best for wedding dresses and delicate items" pick, the Conair Turbo ExtremeSteam 2-in-1 Garment Steamer , may be one of the bulkiest handheld steamers in this roundup, but it has a comfortable handle and larger water tank.

Most travel streamers are lightweight and portable when you compare them with traditional clothes steamers. Most weigh less than 2 pounds, and some of the more compact varieties are no larger than a travel mug. This makes them easy to slot into even the smallest of suitcases. We particularly love the iSteam Steamer for its compact size. It was the smallest one we tested, but didn't sacrifice effectiveness or features.

Some travel steamers are lighter and more ergonomic than others, making them easier to use. While what's easiest for you ultimately comes down to personal preference, selecting one that you can hold at any angle without the water spilling out is helpful. Those with a larger water tank will save you the inconvenience of refilling them so often, as well. Our "best overall" pick, the True & Tidy TS-10 Handheld Garment Steamer , can be tricky to refill, but is very lightweight and comfortable. Notably, the handle stayed cool for the duration of our testing.

Travel steamers absolutely work! Standard-size clothes steamers are more powerful and carry more water, so they are much better for steaming multiple garments and heavy fabrics, such as wool and denim. However, a quality travel steamer will still effectively lift creases out of the clothes you are taking on vacation or a business trip.

To produce steam, travel steamers need to generate water temperatures of more than 200 degrees Fahrenheit. That means you need to use any clothes steamer with care , to avoid accidental burns and spills. For use with heavier fabrics, temperatures can reach as high as 395 degrees Fahrenheit on many standard clothes steamers, but the less powerful travel varieties don't often reach these temperatures.

While they may seem similar, steamers and irons serve different purposes in the laundry room. Steamers use hot steam to relax fibers within a fabric, while irons are used to press and smooth fabric and create creases. Further, steamers are typically used vertically on hanging garments, while irons require a horizontal surface, such as an ironing board .

Yes, travel steamers can be packed in a carry-on or checked bag. Just make sure they don't contain any liquid. 

Steamers are effective at sanitizing clothing due to the hot temperature of their steam, but they don’t necessarily clean your garments. The hot air kills bacteria, but it doesn’t get rid of dirt, grime, odors, or sweat that may be on your clothing.

Why Trust The Spruce?

This article was written by Camryn Rabideau , a freelance writer and product tester for The Spruce. As she started her research into travel steamers, she spoke with experts for insights on the benefits of steaming, what to look for in a travel steamer, as well as how to steam clothes properly. Rabideau personally tested 29 different clothing steamers, including a wide range of handheld models, evaluating each one on its design, portability, heat time, effectiveness, and value. She took these scores, as well as her overall experience with each steamer, into consideration as she put together this list of the best travel steamers.

Our Experts:

• Wayne Edelman , CEO of Meurice Garment Care
• Melissa Maker , cleaning expert and founder of Clean My Space
• Emma Phelps , an associate editor for The Spruce, updated this roundup with additional information from Rabideau's original testing.

Oztoprak, Nefise, et al. “Comparison of Steam Technology and a Two-Step Cleaning (Water/Detergent) and Disinfecting (1,000 Resp. 5,000 Ppm Hypochlorite) Method Using Microfiber Cloth for Environmental Control of Multidrug-Resistant Organisms in an Intensive Care Unit.” GMS Hygiene and Infection Control , vol. 14, 2019, p. Doc15.

More from The Spruce

• Steamer vs. Iron: What's the Difference?
• How to Use a Steamer on Clothes
• How to Steam Clean a Mattress
• 9 Smart Ways to Get Wrinkles Out of Clothes Without an Iron
• How to Clean Dirty Floor Tile Grout Using 3 Simple Methods
• How to Clean Velvet Furniture
• Is Your Shark Steam Mop Not Steaming? 5 Fixes You Should Try
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• How to Steam Clean Grout
• 11 Surprising Things You Can Clean With a Clothes Steamer

Tested and Reviewed: The Best Travel Steamer to Take on the Road

By Erinne Magee

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Even the most seasoned travelers open their suitcase after landing and find themselves with a daunting task ahead: deciding if their wrinkled clothes can get by with a thorough shake out or if reinforcements are needed.

Of course, most hotel rooms are equipped with irons, but the task of setting up the ironing board and fitting each article of clothing just right can feel overwhelming. Not to mention, some pieces are too delicate for harsh heat. Enter our swanky new friend, the travel steamer.

When I set out to find the best travel steamer, I admit, I was hesitant about such a practical item taking up precious carry-on space. But when traveling as a family of four , as I often do, an ironing board set-up can quickly become a catch-all for toys, shopping bags, or electronics and simply get in the way. After testing these steamers, I’ll be leaving the iron tucked away.

Of the nine steamers tested, my favorite models had one thing in common: a metal soleplate, allowing you to touch the steamer to the clothing to smooth out tricky spots. While steamers are mostly celebrated for their ability to get the wrinkles out, they also kill 99.9% of bacteria. Important to note, most steamers come with the recommendation of distilled water to keep the sediment buildup at bay, which I did not use as most of us don’t have easy access to it when we travel.

Each steamer has been tested and reviewed on jeans, khakis, T-shirts , button-down shirts, blouses, and jackets based on the following criteria:

• Size/packability : Does it fit into a weekender or carry-on?
• Power/efficiency: Is it faster and easier than setting up and using the hotel iron? Or at least just as good?
• Water capacity: How many times do you have to refill the reservoir to steam an entire outfit?
• Leakproof: Will you be late to dinner while waiting for the wet spots to dry?
• Durability/longevity : Is the quality going to withstand enough trips to make the steamer worth packing and purchasing?

Which is the best travel steamer?

The design here is just smart. The steamer weighs less than a pound, but produces a solid stream of steam. With a small reservoir, I was surprised the water lasted for almost 10 minutes, allowing for five items to be de-wrinkled (though it was not powerful enough for jeans). There is a button to turn the steam on, but you don’t have to hold it down, which I appreciated. The metal soleplate allows for an ironing option, which is what I ended up using to smooth out the jeans. An adjustable head not only makes the seamer compact, but gives you the option to steam at different angles. I did wonder if frequent adjusting of the head would loosen the feature, but the steamer seems to be quite solid and well made. The unit also comes with a wall mount so you always have a place to hang the garment at home.

Weight: .8 pounds

Pros -Lightweight and packable -Adjustable head -Comes with wall mount -Powerful

Cons -Works best on lighter fabrics only

Can I travel with a portable steamer?

Most travel steamers will fit into your carry-on and can go through TSA without any issues; just make sure any remaining liquid from the reservoir has been emptied before getting to the airport.

Is a portable steamer worth it?

If you are going to a formal event or know you’re packing clothes that are famous for wrinkling, then yes, it's worth adding to your suitcase. As someone who typically only uses a carry-on unless traveling with family, I do value my space and find the steamer to be an easy item to remove should I be running short on room.

What is the lightest travel steamer?

The Nesugar steamer weighs less than a pound, which inched it ahead of the Conair Turbo (weighing in at two pounds and measuring 13 inches long) in overall rating.

More steamers I tested

Of the nine steamers I tested out, these are the others I would recommend, with caveats:

One of the more expensive steamers I tested, the Conair is definitely the winner in terms of power and functionality—a T-shirt can be good as new in less than a minute. While the steamer can blast wrinkles from jackets, you can also lower the setting for more delicate items. The Conair turbo is the only steamer I tested that had various settings to choose from. It even has a built-in creaser, if that’s your thing.

Because the steamer is more powerful, it uses more water, so refills are necessary after a few items (depending on the fabric and intensity of the wrinkles, of course). The Conair Turbo would’ve taken top spot if it were more compact for traveling (its dimensions are 13" x 8" x 6", making it a bit bulky for carry-ons). If you find yourself using an iron a lot at home, this steamer may actually be your best bet.

Weight: 2 pounds

Pros -Can dewrinkle anything  -Various settings to choose from -Quick heat-up

Cons -Hard to fill with small opening -On the larger side for travel

This is by far the most aesthetically pleasing steamer I tested and ranks number two for packability. With a 30-second warm up and automatic steam (no trigger to hold), the Seekclass was off to a good start, but it did take four minutes to steam one pair of pants and I had to utilize the metal soleplate in order to get the job done. The reservoir is tiny, so I had to refill it before I could finish the pants, too. Because the hole to refill is so tiny, it’s also hard to get out any remaining water when you’re ready to pack up the unit. Knowing this, it’s smart to let the steamer dry out at your earliest convenience to keep any build-up from forming.

Pros -Handle folds in, making it easy to travel -Metal soleplate -Quick heat-up

Cons -Leaks when on its side -Very small, hard-to-fill reservoir -Heavier material requires at least one refill

At first I was wondering if I had a faulty unit because it took several minutes for this steamer to heat up, which felt like an eternity compared to others. Once it was ready to go, though, the steam was quite efficient as long as the material wasn’t too thick (button-down shirts worked fine, but nothing heavier). Again, the metal plate comes in handy for more stubborn wrinkles. You have the option to lock the steamer into a continuous stream or control the trigger for smaller bursts (this helps save water in between items, too).

Weight: 1.57 pounds

Pros -Metal plate -Option for continuous steam or manual

Cons -Longer heat up time -Won't tackle jeans or heavier garments

International travelers will be happy about the automatic dual voltage with this steamer. While the heat up is quick (about 20 seconds), the reservoir of the steamer is painfully hot so be sure to only hold on to the handle. Unfortunately, the high temperature of the reservoir requires a pause between fill-ups, but you can get three items done with one tank. My favorite feature is the automatic steam from the get-go, which means your fingers get a rest from holding down the trigger button that comes with many other steamers. The main reason this steamer remains on the final list is for its appeal to those who frequently travel abroad.

Weight: 1.2 pounds

Pros -Collapsible handle for travel -Automatic heat-up (no power button) -No trigger needed to release steam

Cons -Cannot promptly refill reservoir because the tank gets so hot

What to pack for a cruise

Our writer has sailed on more than 50 cruises. Here are her tips on how to pack for a cruise—and the items she always takes along, for every stage of the journey.

These days, there seems to be a cruise for every type of traveler, from luxury liners with all the comforts of a hotel to expedition-style sailings equipped for adventure. No matter what type of cruise you’re planning, it makes sense to make a packing list so you can make the most of your time onboard.

After sailing on more than 50 cruises, I’ve learned a thing or two about what to pack for a cruise. Besides the necessary cruise clothes, my packing list includes key items, such as towel clips and a hand scale. Of course, there’s lots more to consider. Read on for the 20 products I always pack for a cruise.

What to pack for a cruise — a checklist

Before getting into what to pack, it’s important to know that this list is organized into categories. That makes it easier to consider other essentials before you drag out your suitcase.  

For traveling to the cruise

Getting to the terminal is the most difficult part of going on a cruise. Being prepared with a few essentials will make the check-in process and the first few hours on the ship more pleasant.

Passport with cover

Buy it now on   Amazon

No matter where you’re sailing, you must bring identification. Many cruisers bring their passports. A colorful or unique passport cover will help you quickly find it in your bag.  

Bluetooth luggage trackers

Packing trackers, such as Apple AirTags, in luggage and any other bags can help make embarkation day feel a little less stressful, especially if anything gets lost.  

Digital luggage scale

Everyone picks up a souvenir or two on vacation. Packing a digital luggage scale can help keep your luggage under weight regulations for flights. The Etekcity scale is easy to read, and in my experience, accurate to within a few ounces of the scales at the airport.  

Travel pill organizer

This simple pill organizer keeps all your medications, vitamins, and supplements in one light, packable container. I love that there are eight compartments and that each open and snap closed.

For the cruise ship  

Whether you’re sailing for three nights or three weeks, these four items will help you enjoy your time onboard.  

Corkcicle reusable water bottle

Whether you’ve paid for a drink package or plan to sip on included beverages, a reusable water bottle is always handy. The Corkcicle bottle is insulated, has a fun floral design from Rifle Paper Co., and can keep drinks cold for up to 25 hours, according to the company. I love that the lid is designed with a built-in straw, which is a little more environmentally friendly.  

Wet-dry bag  

A wet-dry bag is one of the most important things to bring on a cruise, especially if you’re looking forward to a dip on the last day aboard. Toss wet bathing suits into one of these bags and pack it in your suitcase without worrying about getting the rest of your clothes wet. These wet-dry bags are large enough for at least two adult-sized swimsuits.  

Towel clips

The upper decks can get quite breezy. To prevent towels from flying off chairs, consider bringing some towel clips. They’re lightweight and easy to pack, but strong enough to hold standard pool towels in place. Towel clips are handy for private island destinations too. They can help you find your beach chairs among the mass of lookalikes.  

Sun Bum sunscreen

Sunscreen is a must no matter where you travel. I love Sun Bum because it goes on smoothly and doesn’t feel sticky or heavy on my skin. It’s vegan and gluten free, but most importantly, it’s safe for reefs.

For your cruise cabin

These four items will help keep your cabin tidy and organized.  

Magnetic hooks  

Because most of the walls in cabins are magnetic, many cruise lines allow travelers to use magnetic hooks. These hooks can support 27, 40 or 130 pounds. But the 27-pound option should be enough for a cruise. Use them to hang hats and lanyards, or decorations if you’re celebrating a special occasion.  

Collapsible laundry hamper

Cabins tend to be small, so it can be difficult to figure out where to put dirty clothes. A collapsible laundry hamper is a great way to keep clothes in one spot. Once the hamper is full, I refold the clothes and put them in my suitcase. The hamper folds flat, so it’s easy to pack too.

Magnetic door decorations

Cruise ship hallways can seem endless. An easy way to find your cabin is to put magnetic decorations on your door. They’re also a snap to remove and pack when it’s time to disembark.  

Over the door hanging shoe organizer  

Shoe organizers are great for holding almost anything in tight quarters, from toiletries to hairbrushes, first-aid kits, and medicine boxes. You can purchase separate magnetic hoods to hold them up.  

For travel and excursions

These items can be a big help during excursions or on travel days before or after your cruise.

RFID wallet  

Radio frequency identification, commonly known as RFID, is a high-tech way to steal credit card information. To protect yourself on excursions, carry cards in an RFID-blocking wallet. This one is slim, easily fits into a fanny pack or purse, and has room for a handful of cards.  

Swimsuit coverup

On many cruises, you can go from ship to beach to shopping in one day. A swimsuit coverup is a great versatile piece to pack. It’s lightweight yet provides enough coverage for the beach, and you can wear it as a casual dress for lunch in port.  

Crocs Classic Clogs

Buy it now on   Amazon  

These shoes for kids and adults are great if you’re headed to the beach or a day resort. They’re comfortable and non-slip—ideal for wet pool decks. They come in an abundance of colors and can be customized with   charms .  

LugLife Puddle Jumper SE Backpack  

A backpack is a travel and cruise essential. I like this one from LugLife because it’s loaded with pockets inside and outside. It has plenty of room for everything you need for a day of exploring, plus it’s water-repellant and has a convenient handle on top.

What not to pack on a cruise

As you prepare your packing list, keep in mind that many cruise lines ban certain things. Some are obvious—firearms, fireworks, drones, hard liquor—for passenger and crew safety. Others are less so. Your cruise line’s website should have a list of prohibited items. In general, here are a few other items you can’t bring on a cruise:

Scissors:   While some scissors for grooming and medical kits are allowed, any pair with blades four inches or longer are not permitted.  

CBD products: Most cruise lines ban anything containing cannabidiol. Don’t risk not being able to board the ship by packing these items in your day bag or larger pieces of luggage.

Anything that produces heat: Cruise lines are very cautious when it comes to items that produce heat. Things like coffee machines, candles, heating pads, and travel steamers are not allowed. The only permissible heat-producing items are hair straighteners or curling irons.

Some sporting equipment: Rollerblades, hockey sticks, and pool noodles are not allowed on cruise ships. Additionally, scuba diving equipment is prohibited. If you’ve booked a scuba excursion, the outfitter will provide the equipment you need.

Cruise packing tips from someone who’s been on more than 50 cruises

From ocean liners sailing the Mediterranean to river boats traversing European waterways, I’ve been on dozens of cruises. Yet, I still find packing for a cruise one of the most difficult things to do before setting sail. Fortunately, I have honed a few top tips for packing for a cruise.  

Think about where you’re going and how long the cruise is.

If you live within driving distance of your cruise terminal, you won’t have to worry about weight restrictions. In general, pack at least two outfits for each day—one for an excursion and one for dinner and late-night events on the ship. If possible, you can pack less by doing laundry on the ship on sea days.  

Make two packing lists for every sailing.  

Because suitcases are delivered to your cabin, I always make two packing lists for every cruise I take. The first includes everything I need to pack in my suitcase. The second—more important—list has everything I need in my embarkation day bag, such as passports, medications, a swimsuit, and sunscreen.  

Use colored packing cubes to keep everyone organized.  

Packing cubes are helpful for keeping small stuff, such as socks and underwear, organized on a cruise ship. Use different colored packing cubes for everyone in your travel party. That way, you can share drawers in cabins without mixing everyone’s things together and still keep the room tidy.  

Related Topics

• PRODUCT ROUNDUP
• CRUISE SHIPS
• ADVENTURE TRAVEL

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This Type Of Luggage Is The Best Solution For Maximizing Space In A Tiny Cruise Cabin

If you plan to take a cruise sometime soon, you should consider shelling out the money for collapsible luggage. Despite being thousand-foot goliaths functioning like floating cities dedicated to relaxation and checking out gorgeous ocean views, the majority of these cruises have small passenger sleeping quarters. Even Royal Caribbean's supersized Icon of the Seas has cabins as tiny as the most cramped NYC studio apartments despite being intended for families. You likely don't want much of that vital space taken up by the suitcases of yourself, your spouse, and your kids.

Many first-time cruisegoers wonder where to put luggage during the trip — and the most popular answer is to stash empty containers under the bed. How much space you'll have for suitcases varies from ship to ship, but many have about 12" of clearance. Some passengers put their smaller suitcases inside bigger ones and slide them all under the bed together, but if your cases don't nest like that or are too thick to fit, you'll end up with bags taking up a lot of cabin space. Luckily, collapsible luggage makes storage a breeze.

The advantages of collapsible luggage

You may have figured out how to save tons of space in your luggage with packing hacks , but what about the space your bags take up? Fortunately, you can compress that into small, manageable sizes with collapsible luggage. You can choose from traditional foldable soft bags like backpacks and duffels. You can also get hard-shelled suitcases that collapse almost flat, ensuring they'll fit into even the narrowest under-bed space in your cruise ship's sleeping quarters.

Whether or not you use travel expert Samantha Brown's space-saving hacks when you pack, you won't have to sacrifice the amount of stuff you can bring on your cruise if you use luggage that can fold up. Collapsible luggage comes in both carry-on and full check-in sizes, so unless you like an old-fashioned steamer trunk for your ocean voyages, you should be able to find a comparable model. Some of these handy cases serve as an all-in-one, converting easily from super flat to carry-on size to check-in sizes, depending on how you zip them up.

Can you bring any luggage you want on a cruise?

You have many aspects to consider when planning your journey across the water, ranging from  the most cost-effective time to book a cruise to logistical concerns like which cabin to choose so you don't get seasick — but what you can bring with you may be one of the most essential details. Cruises generally don't have baggage fees, so you have a lot of leeway regarding what you can have with you. The exact policies vary by cruise line, but some major companies like Royal Caribbean state outright that they allow basically all kinds of bags, from trunks to totes, so you should not have an issue bringing collapsible luggage onboard.

Carnival Cruises suggests bringing one bag per person for short trips and limiting yourself to two bags on longer voyages (over six days). It also officially doesn't allow oversized or extremely heavy bags, but these restrictions are pretty relaxed on most cruises. However, remember that unlike on an airplane, "checked" luggage goes straight to your room after going through security and travels with you. This means you have access to your belongings at all times, but it will also take up space in your room the entire trip, making collapsible luggage a fantastic choice for a cruise.

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Love Exploring

The Best River Cruises In North America You Have To Try

Posted: December 11, 2023 | Last updated: December 11, 2023

Rolling on the river

Viking Mississippi Holiday Season cruise, USA

It’s never too early to start planning a Christmas markets cruise, and as much as we love the ones in Germany and Austria, nothing beats a festive float down the Mississippi. Highlights on  this cruise , which snakes from Memphis to New Orleans, include stop-offs at Natchez, whose many historic buildings are festooned with Christmas lights, and Vicksburg, whose independent boutiques are great places to pick up presents. This is also a great cruise for twitchers – a huge number of bird species flock to this stretch of the Mississippi for winter. 

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M.S. Dixie II Lake Tahoe cruise, California, USA

Say hello to one of America’s most spectacular lake cruises. Your mode of transport for this sail across Lake Tahoe will be the M.S Dixie II – the lake’s biggest boat. The sunset dinner cruises are popular with couples, although we recommend the scenic daytime tours, which are a great way to explore North America’s largest alpine lake. This high-altitude body of water spreads into two states (California and Nevada), contains enough water to cover California with 14 inches of water and is deeper than the Empire State Building is tall.  

Le Petit Navire Lachine Canal tour, Québec, Canada

If crowded cruise liners and transatlantic crossings don’t appeal, consider this leisurely sail along Canada’s 14-kilometer Lachine Canal, which slices through the southern section of Montréal, a city famous for its historic architecture. Don’t know your dingle from your dewater? You’ll gain a wonderful insight into the construction of this historic waterway as you pass through its locks, and you’ll also enjoy fantastic views of Montréal’s skyline. Your mode of transport is rather special too – a carbon-neutral, zero-pollution electric propulsion boat. 

American Cruise Lines Alaska Inside Passage cruise, Alaska, USA

Alaska’s Inside Passage is an inland route weaving between islands on the Pacific Northwest coast and along glacier-lined fjords. Inside Passage cruises offer a different perspective on Alaska to coastal cruises, relying on smaller ships to reach more remote ports of call. Highlights of this cruise include the Strait of Georgia, where you’ll sail between Vancouver Island and British Columbia, and the glacier-fed waters of Frederick Sound – a brilliant whale watching spot.

Now check out the fabulous cruising facts you won't believe

Northwest Pioneers Cruise, Oregon and Washington, USA

As much as we love the mighty Mississippi, this brilliant river cruise , which wiggles through Oregon and Washington, is a fantastic reminder that there are plenty of other breathtakingly beautiful waterways to explore. On this adventure, you’ll sail along the Columbia River – the largest in America’s Pacific Northwest – and Snake River, which is the Columbia River’s largest tributary. It’s a great way to see some of America’s most underrated destinations, including the town of Astoria, which is the oldest American settlement west of the Rockies.

American Cruise Lines Puget Sound and San Juan Islands Cruise, Washington, USA

This seven-day cruise provides a brilliant insight into one of America’s most wildlife-rich regions: Washington state’s Puget Sound, America’s second largest estuary; and the San Juan Islands, a cluster of 172 islands and reefs where you’re likely to spot wildlife including whales and eagles. Don’t miss the chance to explore Port Townsend, sandwiched between Puget Sound and the Strait of Juan de Fuca, and famous for its Victorian-era architecture. 

Viking America’s Heartland cruise, Upper Mississippi, USA

This is one of the best Mississippi cruises for anyone keen to learn about the people who shaped this part of the US, whether it’s the Norwegians who migrated here during the 1800s or the farmers who made this region one of America’s top culinary destinations. Stops include the Missouri city of St Louis, once known as the Gateway to the West; Hannibal, which was the setting for Mark Twain’s Adventures of Huckleberry Finn;  and the Iowan city of Dubuque, home to the National Mississippi River Museum & Aquarium.

Viking Heart of the Delta cruise, USA

An eight-day cruise between Memphis and New Orleans, Viking’s Heart of the Delta cruise takes in the Mississippi’s best bits, including many listed monuments and buildings. For history buffs, highlights will include St Francisville, where there’s a whopping 140 buildings listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and Natchez, which has more listed buildings than any other American city. If you’re short on time, put Stanton Hall, which was built in the 1850s, at the top of your list – this Greek revival-style property is famous for its ornate mirrored parlors.  

James River Batteau Company Batteau River tour, Virginia, USA

Short on time? Opt for this scenic river tour . Your mode of transport for this float along Virginia’s James River will be one of the beautiful wooden boats which have sailed this waterway for years. The two-hour tour along the river, which is Virginia’s longest, is a great way to see its wildlife – bald eagles, river otters and ospreys are regularly spotted. It’s a rather relaxed affair, and passengers are encouraged to cool off with a swim in the river. 

Discover the beloved cruise ships that will never sail again

American Queen Voyages Clarkston to Portland cruise, USA

A brilliant cruise for history fans, this 10-day Snake River and Columbia River cruise starts in Clarkston and finishes in Vancouver, Washington – the route undertaken by explorers Captain Meriwether Lewis and Lieutenant William Clark in the early 1800s. It’s also a route lined with natural wonders, including Columbia Gorge, which slices through the Cascade Mountains, and Idaho’s Hell’s Canyon, which is deeper than the Grand Canyon and can be explored on a high-speed boat ride. The Columbia River stretch is where you’re most likely to see bison, elk and deer too. 

American Queen Voyages Memphis to Nashville cruise, USA

This nine-day Memphis to Nashville   cruise is a fantastic way to check out some of the southern state’s prettiest towns, whether it’s Paducah in Kentucky, famed for its arts and craft museum or Clarksville, Tennessee. The latter is famous for its breweries, distilleries and wineries, while historic sites include the Customs House Museum & Cultural Center, where you can learn about the town’s famous former residents, including Wilma Rudolph – the first American woman to win three gold medals in a single Olympic Games. 

American Queen Voyages Mighty Mississippi Red Wing to New Orleans, USA

Can’t get enough of the Mighty Mississippi? Take a deep dive on  this 16-day cruise between Red Wing and New Orleans. It’s a fantastic way to discover the landscapes which surround America’s second longest river. The Minnesotan city of Winona, for example, is built on a sandbar and dates back to 9,500BC. The excursions on this cruise are fantastic too. Our favorite? In the town of Hannibal, Missouri, you’ll get the chance to make your very own clay pot out of Mississippi mud. 

Adventure Life Rivers of Adventure and Wine cruise, Oregon, USA

Your transport for this food and wine-themed cruise along the Columbia River is the Wilderness Legacy, a beautiful vessel designed to resemble a Victorian steamer. During the cruise, which starts and finishes in Portland, you’ll visit some of Oregon’s most important historical sites, but it’s the food and wine-themed stops that really set it apart. In the Hood River Valley, you can sign up for cycle rides between local vineyards, and in the Washington city of Walla Walla, you’ll visit a local chocolatier, olive oil producer, and brewery.  

American Queen Voyages St Louis to Cincinnati cruise, USA

Get more bang for your buck from your river cruise by signing up for American Queen Voyages’ exploration of the Mississippi and Ohio Rivers. Stop-offs on this spectacular paddle steamer cruise include the Illinois city of Alton, which has a rich history and became a base for abolitionists in the 1800s, and Henderson in Kentucky. It’s another cruise with fantastic excursions, our favorite of which is a jet boat ride along a stunning section of the Ohio River near Carrollton, Kentucky. 

American Queen Voyages Montréal to Detroit cruise, Canada and US

An 11-day cruise between two very different cities, this Montréal to Detroit sailing provides plenty of opportunities for urban explorations – you’ll visit Montréal, Québec City , Toronto and Cleveland, as well as quaint riverside towns such as Gananoque, in the heart of the Thousand Islands archipelago in Eastern Ontario. This particular cruise offers fantastic value for money – the cost of your sailing covers a wide range of excursions, including visits to Toronto’s CN Tower and catamaran tours of Niagara Falls.

St Lawrence Cruise Lines, Canada’s Capital North cruise, Canada

This Ottawa River cruise is a great way to explore two very different regions of Canada – more specifically Ontario and Québec. The six-day sailing is packed with fascinating stop-offs, including the wildlife-filled Thousand Islands, which straddle the border between America and Canada, and Fort Wellington, built in 1812. Love a lock? For many passengers, the highlight of this river cruise is the famous Carillion Lock, an enormous 182-tonne structure which has a flow rate of 2,000 cubic meters of water per second. 

Pearl Seas Cruises Great Lakes and Georgian Bay cruise, US and Canada

Sign up for this 11-night cruise from Toronto to Milwaukee and you’ll get the chance to see four of the most beautiful Great Lakes, with time to visit attractions lining the route. For many, the highlight is Georgian Bay, where 30,000 islands form the world’s largest freshwater archipelago, and where you’ll be able to check out destinations such as traffic-free Mackinac Island by horse-drawn buggy. There are plenty of big hitters too – you’ll take a guided tour of Niagara Falls and visit the legendary Henry Ford Museum in Windsor, Ontario. 

Le Boat Rideau Canal Cruise, Ontario, Canada

For something completely different, consider hiring your own river boat for a bespoke exploration of Canada’s Rideau Canal. The waterway, which is the oldest continuously-operated canal system in North America, is regarded as one of the world’s greatest engineering feats, and the UNESCO-listed canal is lined with historic sites. Your mode of transport? A luxury river boat kitted out with a kitchen, spacious bathrooms and sun deck. They’re surprisingly easy to drive too, thanks to powerful thrusters which make navigating locks a breeze. 

American Cruise Lines Hudson River cruise, New York, USA

This New York round trip  takes in the Hudson River’s best bits, busting the myth that its most spectacular section weaves through the Big Apple. You’ll explore it on the American Star, which has room for just 100 passengers and offers several stop-offs in the beautiful Catskill Mountains area. The cruise is especially popular with fans of architecture, who come to admire historic buildings such as the Vanderbilt Mansion (the former home of Franklin D. Roosevelt). 

Viking Great River cruise, Mississippi, USA

This is another fantastic option for history buffs – a Mississippi River cruise filled with visits to some of America’s most important historic sites. In Red Wing, Minnesota, you’ll learn how New Englanders joined forces with German and Irish migrants to farm the fertile landscape, and in Burlington, Iowa, you’ll discover how the arrival of both steamboats and the railroad transformed this once sleepy town, filled with listed buildings. Don’t miss the chance to stand under the famous Gateway Arch in St Louis, Missouri – a crossroads for nineteenth-century explorers. 

US Mailboat Cruises of Lake Winnipesaukee on the M/V Sophie C, New Hampshire, USA

Another fantastic option for anyone short on time, this cruise takes place on America’s oldest floating post office – a beautiful vessel which launched on Lake Winnipesaukee in 1945. During the two-hour cruise, you’ll visit several of Lake Winnipesaukee’s 253 islands, many of which were once home to indigenous people such as the Pennacooks. Don’t forget to send a postcard home – you’ll be able to post it on the boat, complete with an M/V Sophie C stamp.  

Craving a cruise? Check out our guide to the world’s most beautiful cruise ships

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Frugal Traveler

Standby Cruising: A New Option for Bargain Seekers

Are you a flexible traveler? Holland America’s standby cruises may be for you. The cost: $49 a day, excluding fees, taxes and extras. The catch: It might be a hair-raising, last-minute scramble.

By Elaine Glusac

Elaine Glusac is the Frugal Traveler columnist, focusing on budget-friendly tips and journeys.

In February, Barb McGowan took a seven-day cruise on Holland America Line, visiting the Bahamas, Turks and Caicos, and the Dominican Republic for just $343, or $49 a day, excluding taxes, port fees and extras. By comparison, Holland America currently lists a seven-day Caribbean itinerary in October from about $700.

The catch: She had just 48 hours’ notice.

Ms. McGown, a 64-year-old from Naples, Fla., who runs a restaurant franchise, took one of the line’s new standby cruises , which are aimed at travelers who live near departure ports and intended to fill ship vacancies.

“I look for deals, and this was an especially good experience,” Ms. McGowan said, praising the food and entertainment. “I was impressed enough to put down a deposit on a future cruise.”

A way to keep ships full

Holland America introduced its standby program last August to maximize ship occupancy, knowing that cancellations are inevitable. So far, the rest of the cruise industry has not followed its lead.

“If cancellations are within a week or two of sailing, it’s difficult to resell that space in the open market,” said Dan Rough, the vice president of revenue management at Holland America.

In the same way that airlines oversell seats, cruise lines may compensate for cancellations by overselling staterooms. Filling in with standbys, however, reduces Holland America’s reliance on overselling, which runs the risk of bumping passengers to distant departures or potentially offering generous cash incentives to coax volunteers to cancel.

Though the company does not heavily promote the new practice, it has attracted a following among the thrifty by dangling a bargain rate — $49 a person, whether sharing a cabin or traveling solo, before taxes and fees — on a web page that lists available departure dates to attract flexible travelers. Standbys should expect an inside cabin, according to the company, though ocean-view and veranda cabins have been assigned. (The company declined to say how many standby cabins it has offered.)

“Forty-nine dollars per person, per day is pretty exceptional,” said Colleen McDaniel, the editor of CruiseCritic.com , a website that reviews cruises, noting that the price covers all meals and entertainment. “You can’t find a cheaper rate at a land resort for what’s included.” (In 2023, the average nightly rate for a hotel room in the United States was nearly $156, according to STR, a data analytics firm that monitors the hospitality industry.)

To participate, travelers choose an itinerary from the standby list on the website — current embarkation ports include Boston; Fort Lauderdale, Fla.; Montreal; Quebec City; San Diego; Seattle; Vancouver, British Columbia; and Whittier, Alaska — and pay for the trip in advance by calling Holland America or booking through a travel adviser.

There are no refunds for standby cruisers who want to back out. However, if the gamble fails to pay off, and the cruise line cannot offer a cabin to someone on the standby list, it issues a refund.

The company says standby offerings are added on a rolling basis and usually lists itineraries within two to three months of departure. Current offerings include seven-day sailings in Alaska’s Inside Passage from April through September and seven-to-11-day trips cruising the coast of New England and Canada’s Maritime Provinces between May and October.

Proximity is a bonus

Standby cruisers don’t learn of their acceptance or denial until a week to two days before departure, complicating transportation arrangements.

“Last-minute airfare could offset the savings on a cruise,” wrote Crystal Seaton, the owner of Road to Relaxation Travel , a travel agency based in Raleigh, N.C., in an email. Though she has not booked a client on a standby sailing yet, she surmised that it is intended for travelers who can drive to a port.

“We were lucky; we found out Tuesday we were going on a Friday 3 p.m. sailing,” said Sheila Valloney, 66, of Clermont, Fla., who with her husband spent nine days aboard a Holland America ship in the southern Caribbean in February by going standby.

Before being cleared, she reserved a parking spot near the ship dock in Fort Lauderdale, which would have set her back about $6 if she canceled. She also kept their vacation clothes ready to go at the last minute for the three-and-a-half-hour drive to port.

Booking a refundable airline ticket — or at least one that guarantees a credit in loyalty points or cash in the event of cancellation — is one way travelers who must fly can take advantage of the deal.

For her standby sailing, Ms. McGowan drove 90 minutes from her home to the ship in Fort Lauderdale. But her travel companion was coming from Indiana, so when she joined the standby list a few months before the departure date, she booked her friend a Southwest Airlines flight using frequent flier points that would be refunded if the last-minute cruise didn’t come through.

Avoiding extra charges

Once on board, charges for extras like cabin upgrades, Wi-Fi, alcohol and shore excursions can inflate the bill, though the thriftiest travelers try to avoid them.

Ms. McGowan sprang for the $17.50-a-day charge for an upgraded drink package (basic nonalcoholic drinks are included in the cruise) and took one shore excursion, focused on coffee growing, which she deemed a good value at $89.

On their Caribbean cruise, the Valloneys asked around for recommendations for good beaches, where they went to relax on port days, and waited until they were on land to check emails, in order to avoid paying for Wi-Fi on the ship.

“We didn’t miss it at all,” Ms. Valloney said. “For beverages, we would wait until happy hour, when it was buy one, get one free.”

Will other companies follow suit?

To date, no other cruise lines have adopted standby programs.

Princess Cruises said it did not plan to offer cabins on a standby basis, but noted that it already offers last-minute deals , which tend to run about $50 to $60 per passenger per day. For example, a seven-day Alaska sailing from Vancouver to Anchorage departing on May 8 is listed at $399 a person in a double-occupancy cabin.

Several other major cruise lines did not respond to inquiries about potentially adopting standby programs, though operators like Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line also offer last-minute deals on their websites.

“We would be surprised to see many mainstream cruise lines begin to adopt a similar model” to the standby system, wrote Kimberly Coyne, the head of sales and content strategy for Cruiseline.com , a cruise review site, in an email. She said the standby fares might be financially unsustainable for cruise lines and cited the potential that travelers might become too accustomed to late-booking deals.

More ways to save

With the recent surge in cruise bookings, companies are discounting less, said Ms. McDaniel of CruiseCritic.com.

She identified more reliable ways to get a deal compared with going standby, such as booking during “ wave season ,” a sales period that generally runs January through March, or taking a repositioning cruise, in which a ship relocates from one region to another seasonally. A repositioning itinerary might sail in the fall from Alaska to the Caribbean via the Panama Canal.

“It’s not unusual to see a repositioning cruise at less than $75 per night,” Ms. McDaniel, said, noting that other expenses such as an airline itinerary into one city and returning from another may cost more than a standard round-trip ticket.

Repositioning cruises tend to stop at fewer ports and add more shipboard enrichment programs, such as lectures and activities like cake decorating classes and craft spirits tastings.

“For a lot of people the ship is the destination and this is the perfect activity for people who like to be on the ship,” she said.

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

Come Sail Away

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Th ree-Year Cruise, Unraveled:  The Life at Sea cruise was supposed to be the ultimate bucket-list experience : 382 port calls over 1,095 days. Here’s why  those who signed up are seeking fraud charges  instead.

TikTok’s Favorite New ‘Reality Show’:  People on social media have turned the unwitting passengers of a nine-month world cruise  into  “cast members”  overnight.

Dipping Their Toes: Younger generations of travelers are venturing onto ships for the first time . Many are saving money.

Cult Cruisers: These devoted cruise fanatics, most of them retirees, have one main goal: to almost never touch dry land .

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I Wore This Breezy Button-down All Over Europe, and It Never Wrinkled — so I’m Stocking Up on 12 Similar Styles

My favorite finds from Amazon, Madewell, and more start at just $8.

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Travel + Leisure / Daisy Rodriguez

A few summers ago, I discovered the perfect white button-down shirt while prepping for a three-week trip to Europe. Though the Big Dart Women’s Loose Fit Button-down Shirt was admittedly an Amazon impulse purchase, this $26 shirt easily ended up being the most versatile item in my suitcase while I traveled to Portugal and France with my family.

This oversized button-down emerged as my vacation wardrobe workhorse thanks to its lightweight material, crisp feel, and surprisingly durable fabric. I was traveling with my two young sons, which meant everything I wore was susceptible to spills, and I was shocked by how well this button-down washed and how stain-resistant and durable the fabric was, as well as how wrinkle-resistant it was. It’s a cotton polyester blend, so not 100 percent cotton, but I still found it to be very breathable and soft.

Big Dart Women’s Loose Fit Button-down Shirt

Better yet, the Big Dart button-down went with pretty much everything I had packed for that trip: I could wear it over a bathing suit, tucked into pants, tied up with denim shorts, or left unbuttoned with a tank top underneath. It worked equally well on hot days to provide sun coverage and as a lightweight topper on cooler nights. All in all, it made me feel put-together and stylish — and because I could wear it with absolutely everything, I felt I’d achieved the elusive and satisfying feeling of “packing well.”

Below, 12 more oversized button-downs that are perfect for travel, ranging from short-sleeve styles to shirts available in bright colors and fun patterns —  starting at just $8 .

Hotouch Women’s Cotton Button-down Shirt

Like my beloved Big Dart button-down, this shirt is available on Amazon, super affordable, and hugely versatile. But it has a slightly beachier, slouchier silhouette that some people may prefer, especially for warm-weather trips. Made of 100 percent cotton with a linen-like texture and a chest pocket, reviewers say the fabric feels surprisingly high quality. The fit is “oversized just enough to be loose, but looks great buttoned or open with a tank top,” says one , and the material is lightweight but not see-through.

Dokotoo Women’s Color Block Button-down Shirt

Another under-$40 Amazon find, this billowing button-down from Dokotoo is made from 100 percent cotton but slightly rough and textured, similar to linen. The shirt boasts more than 1,000 five-star reviews: The fabric is “ great quality ,” reviewers say; they also love the “beautiful color” (in addition to solid basics, there are fun color block prints), “gauzy” feel, and comfortable fit. 

Gap Organic Cotton Perfect Shirt

Discounted from its original price of $70, Gap’s Organic Cotton Perfect Shirt is a steal. This button-down has a straight silhouette that sits around the hip, the perfect length to tuck in or wear loose; just size up for that effortless oversized look. The 100 percent organic cotton fabric is “stylish and crisp” and “really versatile,” reviewers say.

Madewell Signature Poplin Oversized Shirt

For excellent basics, you can always rely on Madewell. This oversized button-down, marked down more than 50 percent, comes in a few different colors in addition to white (for something a little different, I love the blue and white stripe) and is available in sizes from S to XXL. Reviewers rave about the lightweight material, with one saying it’s their new favorite shirt and it “makes me feel like Diane Keaton ready to walk the beaches of Rhode Island.”

Old Navy Linen-Blend Button-Down Boyfriend Shirt

With its super soft linen rayon blend and 1,000-plus five-star reviews, this best-selling button-down from Old Navy may just be the perfect white linen beach top. It’s “super comfortable,” “lightweight and summery,” and “has just the right oversized fit.” Some reviewers do find that it runs a little longer than your average button-down, though others say this helps make it ideal as a swim cover-up.

Cunlin Wrinkle-free Women’s Button Down

Another great Amazon find, this striped button-down is available in a range of perfect-for-summer colors like pink , purple , and light blue . It’s made of a wrinkle-free material and has a standard to oversized fit that’s still slightly more structured than other options. Reviewers say for that “boyfriend” style, size up one, and otherwise, “It looks more expensive than it really was and can be dressed up or down. Travels really well and doesn't seem to wrinkle easy, as promised.”

Amazon Essentials Classic Long Sleeve Button-down Shirt

You couldn’t go wrong with this lightweight cotton poplin shirt if you tried. With a classic look that can easily take you from day to night, walking tour to dinner and back, this is your shirt — and it’s only $26. Reviewers say that while this shirt does tend to get creases throughout the day, it’s “high-quality” and better than name brands they’ve tried.

Uniqlo Premium Linen Long Sleeve Shirt

Made of 100 percent linen flax grown in Europe, this slightly sheer button-down from Uniqlo is “great quality,” has a “perfect fit,” and is “long enough to wear over tights, tucked in, tied in the front, anyway you want it,” according to reviewers. It’s also available in virtually every possible color, from classic white to a peachy orange to various shades of blue. Note that the fit isn’t oversized, so size up if you’d prefer a roomier silhouette.

Uniqlo Linen Blend Band Collar Striped 3/4-Sleeve Shirt

Though similar to the button-down above, this Uniqlo shirt has a band collar and three-quarter length sleeves that give it a soft, beachy look. It’s semi-sheer, reviewers note, so you may want to wear a shirt underneath if you choose one of the lighter colors. The fabric is soft and lightweight, and also makes a perfect beach cover-up.

Quince Organic Cotton Poplin Long Sleeve Boyfriend Shirt

There’s a case to be made that Quince is one of the best places to shop for affordable travel basics, and the retailer’s 100 percent Organic Cotton Poplin Long Sleeve Boyfriend Shirt is evidence number one. Made from organic poplin, it’s crisp and classic with a fit that’s loose but not ultra oversized. Reviewers love the “great quality” materials and “super versatile” silhouette that can be dressed up or down. And while “it does need an iron,” reviewers say, the shirt can be washed without shrinking.

Ichuanyi Womens Cotton Button-down Shirt

No, you’re not reading the price wrong — this short-sleeve button-down top from Walmart’s Ichuanyi line is indeed just $8. A nice alternative to longer sleeves, reviewers say this shirt has a lightweight material, washes well, and is easy to dress up or down. (Just keep in mind that it does wrinkle, so you may choose to iron it.) Best yet, there are a whopping 29 stylish color options and an inclusive size range from S to 5XL.

J.Ver Wrinkle-free Button-down Shirt

One of the most prized qualities of the Big Dart shirt is that it didn’t wrinkle; in fact, I did not iron it once. That’s what reviewers also loved about this Amazon button-down which they say is “ very comfortable and looks really nice on, no wrinkles .” It’s not oversized per se, but you can always size up for a roomier look, but with its streamlined look this one can also be worn to dressier dinners or even business meetings on the go — no need for a portable steamer.

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Already planning to see the next solar eclipse in 2026? What travelers need to know.

Umbraphiles feeling the post-eclipse blues should start checking the expiration date on their passports.

The next total solar eclipse is set to happen on Aug. 12, 2026, over Greenland, Iceland, Spain, Russia and a small part of Portugal, according to NASA . 

In North America, only a partial eclipse will be visible, so if April’s event made you an eclipse chaser and you want to see totality, you’ll need to head overseas.

Here’s what you’ll need to know before packing your bags:

Do you need a passport or visa for the best destination?

The path of totality for the 2026 eclipse mostly goes through places Americans can travel visa-free with their passport, so long as they’re planning to stay for less than 90 days.

Spain, Portugal, Iceland and Greenland all allow visa-free tourist travel for U.S. passport holders.

Spain, Portugal and Iceland are also members of the Schengen Area, which allows for visa-free travel in much of Europe, meaning if you decide to make a multi-country trip out of your eclipse adventure, you won’t need to clear customs if you’re coming from much of the rest of Europe, either.

One major change for travelers to Europe from the U.S., however, is that electronic preauthorization will become a requirement beginning in mid-2025. The European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) requirement will apply to all four open countries in the path of totality. 

Depending on the state of the Ukraine war, travel to Russia may or may not be an option for most Americans by 2026, so it’s unclear what the paperwork requirements will be by then.

Is it better to see it from the beach?

Beaches can be a great place to see the eclipse because there are few natural obstacles blocking observers’ views of the sky. The 2026 path of totality passes over beaches on Spain’s northern and southeastern coasts, as well as over islands in the Mediterranean Sea including Mallorca, Menorca and Ibiza. The eclipse will also pass over coastal areas in Greenland and Iceland, according to the National Solar Observatory . 

Cruising Altitude: What it was like to see the eclipse from a plane

Will there be eclipse cruises or flights?

Almost certainly, although most operators have not announced specific plans yet. 

Cruise lines will also offer more viewing opportunities. Princess Cruises “has created a bespoke itinerary aboard Sky Princess to position the ship near Spain on that date,” according to a spokesperson for the line. The cruise will open for bookings on Princess’s website on May 23.

Cunard Line has sailings on its Queen Mary 2 , Queen Victoria and Queen Anne vessels that will put passengers in prime spots to watch .

'The ship can move': Why you should watch next solar eclipses from a cruise ship

Holland America Line is also planning multiple sailings around the event, though details are still to be announced. “Guests have reacted positively to our 2024 eclipse cruises and with the next full eclipse in 2026 we plan to have three sailings in Europe that will align with the path of the eclipse,” Paul Grigsby, the line's vice president of Deployment & Itinerary Planning, previously told USA TODAY in an email.