I’m not going to sugar coat it – cruise staterooms are small. Even Disney ones.
Although Disney rooms have been said to be some of the biggest amongst cruise ships.
They’re smartly designed, but once you start unpacking for a whole family (or even just yourself), it can feel like there’s stuff everywhere.
I overpack – a lot. But I’m someone who needs a tidy room to fully relax, so I’ve figured out a system that actually works.
This blog post covers my favorite organization tips and must-pack items that help keep everything in its place during your cruise.
Whether you’re in an inside stateroom or a verandah suite, these ideas will help you make the most of the space you have.
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Tips for Keeping Your Disney Cruise Room Organized
Fully unpack your suitcase and get it out of the way. The beds are lifted high enough that you can slide your luggage underneath—and once it’s out of sight, it’s out of mind. That alone makes the room feel so much more spacious.
Designate drawers. I like giving each person their own drawer or shelf. That way you’re not digging through piles of clothes to find your stuff. I even separate outfits by day sometimes if I’m feeling extra organized.
Laundry can be your friend. If you’re on a longer cruise or extending your trip afterward with a few days at Disney World or Universal, laundry is a huge win. You can rewear clothes you love without packing extra. Just toss them in the wash mid-trip, and you’re good to go.
Bathroom space fills up fast. If you’re traveling with more than two people, I recommend bringing a suction cup wall organizer for toiletries. That little bit of extra space makes a big difference.
Shower tip: Even with just the two of us, we ended up using the showers in the Senses Spa almost every day. They’re bigger, quieter, and honestly felt like a mini spa day every time.
Use magnetic hooks by the door for your Key to the World card. Stateroom walls are metal—no command hooks allowed—but magnetic ones are perfect. I like to hang my lanyard there so I never forget it. Also: pack an old gift card or hotel key to leave in the room’s light slot so the lights stay on when you step out.
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Organization Essentials for Your Next Disney Cruise
Here are the items I swear by (and a few others that are well worth the suitcase space):
- Pop-up Hamper: Keeps dirty laundry contained. Folds flat and hides easily in the closet or bathroom.
- Laundry Detergent Sheets: TSA-safe, no spills, and easy to pack. You can even pre-cut a few if you want to save space.
- Magnetic Hooks: These are a must. Use them for hats, lanyards, wet swimsuits, bags—whatever’s floating around the room.
- Clothespins: Great for the shower clothesline. I also use them to clip things together (like sunhats and swimsuits) or hang up items on hangers that want to slide off.
- Sound Machine: Helps block out hallway noise, engine hum, or just unfamiliar sounds. Worth it.
- Collapsible Step Stool: If you have small kids, this makes reaching the sink or bed easier. Folds flat and weighs nothing.
- Hanging Closet Organizer: Adds shelves to your closet space. I use this to avoid having to dig through drawers—everything is right there in front of me.
- Collapsible Fan: Staterooms can get a little warm and stuffy. This helps with airflow and also adds white noise.
- Motion Sensor Nightlight: Inside staterooms can be pitch black. These are perfect for nighttime bathroom trips without having to turn on every light.
- Cruise Lanyard Badge Holder: Keep your room key close. Some come with little zip pouches too, which are handy for chapstick or cash tips.
- Cruise-Approved Power Strip (No Surge Protector): Look for one specifically labeled as cruise-compliant. It gives you a few more outlets and usually has USB ports. Disney staterooms don’t have a ton of outlets, so this is great!
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Staying Organized On A Disney Cruise
Bringing just a few of these makes your whole trip feel calmer, cleaner, and way more relaxed. Once your stuff is organized and out of the way, you get to focus on what you’re really there for—ice cream machines, deck time, port adventures, and all the Disney magic.
Let me know if you’ve tried any of these or if you have a favorite cruise hack I missed! We’re currently prepping for our next Disney Cruise—and it’s a big one. An international sailing on Disney Adventure, the newest ship in the fleet! I’ll be sharing more tips as we go and updating this list with anything new I learn onboard. If there’s anything you’re wondering about or want to see from that trip, send me a message!
And let et me know if you’ve tried any of these or if you have a favorite cruise hack I missed!
XOXO,
Julia
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About the author: Hey there! I’m Julia, a passionate theme park and travel writer. My love for theme parks has fueled my obsession with sharing tips and adventures for years. Join me as I uncover the magic of Disney Cruises and beyond!
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