There’s a weird moment on every cruise where you realize your cabin is not particularly comfortable.
Space feels tight, a few comforts from home are missing, and some essentials you assumed would be there often aren’t.
Here’s the good part. People think cruises are all upsells (and yes, they definitely try), but there are also a bunch of small free things you can request that make your cabin way more comfortable.
So here are free things you can ask for in your cruise cabin, if you don’t spot them when you walk in.
1. Extra Towels (All Kinds)
This one is so basic, but it’s honestly life-changing.
Need more bath towels? Extra hand towels? A couple more washcloths? Just ask your cabin attendant. They’ll usually bring them fast too.
Especially in hot climates, passengers might take multiple showers a day, and then beach, pool, gym. So yeah. Towels disappear quickly.
2. Extra Pillows (Or Different Types)
Some cruise pillows feel like a sad, flat wooden board. Other times, they’re too thick, and your neck never fully relaxes.
Most ships can bring extra pillows. Some lines even have different pillow options, depending on the ship.
It’s a small thing, but sleeping well on a cruise is very important for recharging your batteries.
3. An Extra Blanket (Or a Warmer Comforter)
On some ships, the cabins have a strange temperature. They are either very hot or freezing cold.
The positive thing is that, if you feel cold, you can get an extra blanket, or even a warmer bedding setup if they have it available.
Obviously, check that the air conditioning is also working properly and, if necessary, ask for a technician.
PRO TIP: Don’t forget that on some modern cruise ships, the ac automatically turns off if you leave the balcony door open.
4. A Mattress Topper (Sometimes)
This depends on the cruise line and how stocked they are, but you can absolutely ask.
Some ships have foam toppers available, especially if you say the bed feels too firm.
Now, will it feel like a five-star hotel bed? Not always. But it can be very helpful, especially if you’re picky about sleep or have specific medical conditions.
5. A Fan (If Your Cabin Feels Stuffier Than Usual)
Sometimes the air in the cabin feels heavy. Like the AC is working but not really.
A small fan can make the room feel fresher, and some people love the white noise.
Not every ship has fans to hand out, but it’s worth asking.
6. Extra Hangers
Cruise closets are usually decent, but hangers can be weirdly limited.
If you’ve got dresses, jackets, button-downs, or you just hate living out of a suitcase, ask for more hangers.
It makes the cabin feel less chaotic. And reducing cabin chaos is always a good idea.
7. Ice Bucket Refills
If you like cold water, iced coffee, or you bring your own drinks to the cabin, this is such a simple win.
Most cabin attendants can keep your ice bucket filled if you ask. Some ships even do it automatically, but not always.
8. A Kettle or Hot Water Option
This one is also very ship-dependent, but it doesn’t hurt to ask.
Some lines are strict about kettles in cabins, but sometimes they can provide a hot-water carafe or point you to the best spot on board to get hot water easily.
If you love tea at night, it’s worth trying.
Also, drinking something warm on your balcony at sunset is the best thing during a winter cruise.
9. A Mini Fridge Adjustment (Or Medical Cooler Help)
Most cabins have some kind of fridge setup, but here’s the truth:
Sometimes it’s not actually cold. It’s more like “slightly chilled.”
You can ask guest services to adjust it, or request help if you need it for medication. Ships are usually pretty good about medical needs.
Even if it’s just for keeping bottled water colder, it can make a big difference.
10. Extra Trash Pickup (If You’re Bringing Snacks)
If you’re the type who brings chips, cookies, fruit, room service plates your cabin trash fills up fast.
You can ask for extra trash pickup, or even a second small trash bin if your ship has them.
It sounds dramatic, but nothing ruins the cabin mood like a trash can overflowing, especially if you’re sharing the cabin with other people.
In this regard, don’t forget to check the mistakes to avoid when sharing a cabin.
11. A Shoe Mat or Extra Towels for Wet Stuff
If you’re coming back from the beach or pool constantly, your cabin floor gets wet and sandy fast.
You can ask for extra towels specifically for drying shoes, but it’s even better if they have a mat.
Many ships have them, and they are very convenient. It’s one of the secrets of pro cruisers.
12. Extra Coffee Packets, Tea Bags, Sweeteners
If your cabin includes coffee or tea, you can definitely ask for more.
Some cabin setups come with a few packets, and that’s it. But your cabin attendant can often bring extras.
Also: extra creamer and sugar. Don’t be shy and have a look at all the surprising things your cabin steward can bring for free.
13. A “Cabin Setup” That Fits Your Routine
This one is more of a category, but it’s honestly the best one.
You can ask for little adjustments like:
- Keeping the bed together or separating it into twins
- Leaving extra towels daily instead of asking every time
- Ice refills each afternoon
- Turning down the bed early if you nap a lot
- Extra glasses for water
And a quick tip: the nicer and more human you are about it, the smoother everything goes. A simple “hey, sorry to bother you” with a smile makes a difference.
And for the bathroom? Well, these are the cruise bathroom hacks most people never think about.
