One cruise accessory I did not think I needed, but now will not cruise without.
After watching cruise influencers recommend magnetic hooks, I doubted they would be useful. But after using a set on my own cruise, I am sure I will always carry them with me. Having dedicated places for my caps, lanyard, belt, and binoculars kept my things organized and easy to find.
A Small Accessory That Made a Big Difference
Cruise ship staterooms are not known for abundant storage space. I used magnetic hooks to hang my caps, lanyard, belt, and binoculars. Everything had a designated place, and I knew exactly where to find what I needed before an excursion.
My Favorite Use: Hanging a Portable Fan
I bought a small USB portable fan to circulate air in my stateroom. I attached a magnetic hook to the ceiling and suspended the fan facing my bed. It supported the weight, and I could move it to another part of the room. Make sure any suspended fan is secure and does not create a falling hazard. Keep it away from safety equipment and check cruise line rules.
One Popular Tip That Did Not Work So Well
I tried using magnets to keep the shower curtain in place. It was only partially successful. The magnets kept falling off the shower wall, and water still got onto the floor. I would not buy magnetic hooks just for this trick.
Do Not Make the Mistake I Made: Buy Stronger Magnets
I bought some hooks rated for 30 pounds and others rated for less. The weaker ones frequently fell off the wall. I recommend looking for hooks rated at least 30 pounds. Remember that a magnet rated for 30 pounds on a flat, direct-pull surface may hold much less on a vertical wall. Wall coverings, paint, and metal thickness also affect performance.
Other Ways to Use Magnetic Hooks
Hang your lanyard and cap near the door, accessories by the closet, or a small toiletry bag where the bathroom surface is magnetic. A magnetic clip can hold daily ship schedules or excursion tickets. Not every cabin surface is magnetic, so test it first.
A Few Things to Remember Before Packing Them
Look for heavy-duty neodymium hooks. Cushion them in your luggage so they do not snap together or pinch fingers. Keep strong magnets away from magnetic-stripe cards, sensitive electronics, and medical devices that could be affected by magnetic fields. Never attach them to safety equipment or hang heavy, fragile items overhead.
So, Are Magnetic Hooks Worth Packing?
For me, absolutely. I doubted I would use them much, but they helped organize my belongings and position my fan. The shower curtain trick disappointed me, and the weaker magnets were not worth the money. I will always bring a small set of strong magnetic hooks on future cruises.
Products Mentioned in This Article
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Magnetic Hooks for Cruise Cabins
Portable USB Fan
Cruise Essentials Pack
Seas, Summits, & Skies Travel shares practical travel advice based on firsthand experiences and research.