I get asked all the time what I pack for cruises, Alaska trips, or theme park days. Here are some of the things I actually use and recommend β€” all available on Amazon. These links are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you buy, at no extra cost to you.

GenXJarhead Travels Recommends

Smart, affordable gear for safer and smoother trips

πŸ›‘οΈ Safety & Security Essentials

Travel should feel exciting, not stressful. A few small items can give you peace of mind whether you’re in a hotel, an Airbnb, or even on a cruise. These are simple, affordable tools that help keep you and your info safe on the road:

Portable Door Stop Alarm
Great for hotel rooms or Airbnb's β€” wedge it under the door for extra security. If anyone tries to push in, the alarm sounds immediately.
πŸ‘‰ Shop Door Stop Alarm: https://amzn.to/3Hn4QpY

Hidden Camera Detector
A pocket-sized device that helps you scan for hidden cameras in rentals or hotel rooms. Extra peace of mind in unfamiliar places.
πŸ‘‰ Shop Hidden Camera Detector: https://amzn.to/47DN1xo

USB Data Blocker
Prevents data theft when charging your phone at public charging stations or airports. It lets power flow but blocks any data transfer.
πŸ‘‰ Shop USB Data Blocker: https://amzn.to/3JtTWPH

RFID-Blocking Wallet or Passport Holder
Keeps your cards and passport safe from electronic pickpocketing (RFID skimming).
πŸ‘‰ Shop RFID Wallet / Passport Holder: https://amzn.to/41gS42Z



🚒 Cruise Essentials

Travel smart and make the most of your cruise experience with these must-haves:

Camping Blanket
Great for chilly nights on deck or beach excursions. Packs small but keeps you warm.
πŸ‘‰ Shop Camping Blanket

Vacuum Storage Bags with Hand Pump
Save space in your suitcase β€” perfect for bulky sweaters or jackets on Alaska cruises.
πŸ‘‰ Shop Vacuum Storage Bags

Selfie Stick Tripod
Take stable photos and videos onboard or at ports without asking strangers.
πŸ‘‰ Shop Selfie Stick Tripod

Leather Waterproofing (8oz)
Protects shoes, bags, or gear when traveling in wet climates.
πŸ‘‰ Shop Leather Waterproofing

Magnetic Hooks (Pack of 10)
Cruise ship walls are metal β€” these hooks are a game-changer for keeping your cabin organized.
πŸ‘‰ Shop Magnetic Hooks

Travel Hangers (10 Pcs)
Lightweight, space-saving hangers designed for cruise ship cabins.
πŸ‘‰ Shop Travel Hangers

Hat Clip for Bags (2 Pack)
Keeps your hat secure while you explore ports or walk the ship.
πŸ‘‰ Shop Hat Clips

Lanyards with Waterproof ID Holders (5 Pack)
Keep your room key safe and handy β€” no more losing it at the pool.
πŸ‘‰ Shop Cruise Lanyards

Water Sports Shoes (Quick-Dry)
Great for beach days, water excursions, or rocky shorelines.
πŸ‘‰ Shop Water Shoes

Portable Digital Luggage Scale
Never stress about overweight luggage fees again.
πŸ‘‰ Shop Luggage Scale

Cruise Duck Kit (100 Pieces)
A fun cruise tradition β€” hide ducks around the ship for others to find.
πŸ‘‰ Shop Cruise Duck Kit

Towel Bands (4 Pack)
Keep your towels in place on breezy pool deck chairs.
πŸ‘‰ Shop Towel Bands

Beach Towel Clips
Another option for securing towels on deck chairs.
πŸ‘‰ Shop Towel Clips

Door Stop Alarm (Pack of 2)
Adds an extra layer of security to your cabin or hotel room.
πŸ‘‰ Shop Door Stop Alarm

Beach Sand Remover Mitt
Easily wipe sand off feet, hands, and gear before heading back onboard.
πŸ‘‰ Shop Sand Remover Mitt

DCL Luggage Tag Holders (8 Pack)
Designed for Disney Cruise Line tags β€” no more ripped paper tags.
πŸ‘‰ Shop DCL Tag Holders

Fold-Away Cup Carrier
Carry multiple drinks around the ship or pool without spills.
πŸ‘‰ Shop Cup Carrier

Athlon Optics 10x42 Argos G2 HD Binoculars
Perfect for spotting wildlife, watching glaciers calve, or getting a closer look at ports from the ship.
πŸ‘‰ Shop Athlon Binoculars

Vortex Optics Crossfire HD 10x42 Binoculars
Crisp optics and durable build make these ideal for excursions and scenic cruising.
πŸ‘‰ Shop Vortex Binoculars