Royal Caribbean’s policies aren’t meant to make packing harder—they exist for safety. Cruise cabins operate on a different electrical system than hotels, and ships must prevent fire hazards at all costs. Unapproved electrical items are one of the most common causes of fires in enclosed spaces, so cruise lines enforce strict guidelines to reduce risk. Appliances that overheat, spark, or draw too much power can pose serious dangers at sea.
Royal Caribbean follows international maritime safety standards, which means certain household appliances are allowed, others are restricted, and a few are completely prohibited. Before packing anything that plugs in or charges, you must know which category it falls into.
Most Royal Caribbean staterooms include:
110V US-style outlets
220V European outlets
A few USB ports (mainly on newer ships)
This setup supports many everyday devices, but not those requiring significant wattage or heating components. Understanding your cabin's electrical limitations helps you avoid packing items that aren’t permitted or won’t work properly.
Royal Caribbean permits most small personal grooming appliances, as long as they include built-in safety features. These items are typically safe, low wattage, and widely used by passengers.
Allowed.Most cabins already include hair dryers, but you may bring your own if you prefer better power or temperature control.
Allowed.These devices are safe as long as they have automatic shut-off features. They should never be left unattended.
Allowed.Portable grooming tools with rechargeable batteries or low-voltage plugs are permitted.
Medical needs always take priority, and Royal Caribbean accommodates travelers with approved medical appliances.
Allowed.Bring extension cords and distilled water if required. You can also request distilled water from the ship in advance.
Allowed.These devices are permitted but should be used with caution and stored securely.
Allowed.Check requirements beforehand, especially for battery backups and airline transport.
Most personal electronics that don’t involve heating elements are permitted.
Allowed.These devices are widely used onboard for entertainment and work.
Allowed.Cruise apps, messaging, and daily plans rely heavily on these gadgets.
Allowed.Photography equipment is essential for capturing memories.
Allowed within standard capacity limits.
Some appliances fall into a gray area—they’re neither fully banned nor fully allowed. These items require specific features or handling to be permissible.
Restricted.Most steamers heat water to produce steam under pressure, which makes them a fire risk. Royal Caribbean prohibits personal steamers, but ironing services are offered onboard.
Restricted.Although helpful for comfort, these items can overheat and are banned.
Restricted.Only cruise-approved surge protectors or medically necessary cords are permitted. Regular household cords may be confiscated.
Allowed only if small, non-heating, and low wattage.Large fans may draw too much power.
Allowed with limitations.These must be low-wattage, and crew may inspect them.
These items are strictly prohibited because they pose the highest fire risk.
Not allowed.Most ships provide laundry services or clothing-pressing options.
Not allowed.Open-heat sources are dangerous in confined spaces.
Not allowed.Even single-cup brewers like Keurig fall under this rule.
Not allowed.Heating coils present a significant hazard.
Some appliances draw so much energy that they are not safe for use in cruise cabins.
Not allowed.Their heating elements and wattage exceed safety regulations.
Not allowed.Excess moisture and electrical components can be dangerous.
Not allowed.No exceptions.
Any item with exposed heating coils or excessive wattage is banned, including:
Electric skillets
Rice cookers
Immersion heaters
Crockpots
Passengers must avoid packing these items to prevent delays during security checks.
If you plan to bring approved electrical appliances, pack them safely and clearly.
Use cable organizers or pouches to prevent tangling.
If you bring multiple similar items (e.g., two chargers), labeling avoids confusion.
Never put expensive electronics or medical devices in checked bags.
Royal Caribbean’s security team screens all bags for restricted electrical appliances. If an item appears suspicious, they may:
Open your luggage
Inspect the appliance
Confiscate the item temporarily or permanently
Leave a notice in your bag
To avoid delays, pack only permitted appliances and make sure cords are visible and easily accessible.
Royal Caribbean staterooms are designed with limited electrical load capacity. Even allowed devices should be used carefully.
Plug only one device at a time if possible.
Especially grooming devices.
Bathroom counters can get damp—stay cautious.
Straighteners and curling irons need cooling time.
Passengers using medical equipment should:
Inform Royal Caribbean ahead of time
Carry spare parts or backup batteries
Store devices on stable surfaces
Avoid charging overnight unless required
This ensures safe use while giving crew awareness to assist if needed.
Cruising is meant to help you unplug. Bringing minimal electronics makes the experience more enjoyable and simplifies packing.
Instead of banned items, consider:
A safer alternative to irons and steamers.
Approved low-power models work well.
Efficient and safe for charging multiple devices.
Reduce dependency on outlets.
Most appliances exceeding 700–1000 watts are not suitable for cruise cabins.
Travel versions are typically smaller, safer, and designed with stricter electrical standards.
Only if they are unsafe, prohibited, or unlabeled.
No self-service ironing rooms, but laundry and pressing services are available.
Only cruise-approved models without surge protection.
New ships offer multiple outlets and USB ports, while older ships have fewer.
Some appliances, like kettles, may be available on request depending on the ship.
Stateroom dryers work well, but frequent travelers often prefer their personal devices.
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