Everything You Never Knew You Needed to Know About Cruise Luggage Tags (But Definitely Do)
So, you’re going on a cruise—cue the celebratory steel drum music and dreams of endless buffets. You’ve picked your excursions, booked your spa day, and packed enough outfits to clothe a small island. But there’s one tiny detail that holds more power than you might think: the cruise luggage tag.
Yep, that flimsy little rectangle might just be the unsung hero of your smooth embarkation. Here’s everything you need to know to avoid luggage chaos and start your vacation on the right deck.
What Are Cruise Luggage Tags, and Why Should You Care?
Cruise luggage tags are the cruise line’s way of knowing which bag belongs in which cabin. Each tag has your name, cabin number, ship name, and sometimes a barcode. When you hand off your bags at the port, these tags guide your luggage on a magical behind-the-scenes journey—while you sip a welcome drink, it’s figuring out how to find your room.
Without the proper tag? Your bag could end up anywhere from the crew quarters to the captain’s lounge (okay, probably not—but you’ll be waiting a while).
How Do You Get Them?
Most cruise lines now provide printable luggage tags after check-in, available through your online account. You’ll typically find them in PDF format, which you’ll need to print at home. Yes, this means you'll have to locate your printer and hope it still works after three months of neglect.
Pro tip: Print a few extra. You will mess one up. It’s cruise tradition.
When Do You Attach Them?
Attach your tags at home, or right before handing off your luggage at the terminal. Just don’t check in your bag without it properly labeled. Otherwise, your swimsuit might enjoy the spa without you.
What Happens If You Forget Them?
Don’t panic. Cruise terminals usually have extra tags and staff who can help you label your luggage by hand. It’s not ideal, but it’s not the end of your cruise dreams either.
Just don’t make it a habit, or the porters will remember you. And not in a good way.
The Bottom Line
Cruise luggage tags may be small, but they’re mighty. Treat them with care and they’ll reward you by reuniting you with your perfectly rolled (or crammed) outfits in your stateroom. So go ahead—laminate, tape, or sleeve them like the cruise pro you are.
Bon voyage, and may your bags arrive before your first poolside piña colada.
How to Attach a Luggage Tag Without Losing Your Mind (or the Tag)
You’ve got two options:
DIY Lamination: Grab some packing tape or use a self-sealing luggage tag holder (available online). Fold the tag per the instructions, slip it into the sleeve, and attach it to your bag’s handle. Voilà! Waterproof and port-proof.
Live Dangerously: Just tape the tag straight to your luggage and hope for the best. (I don’t recommend this unless you enjoy tracking down missing bags.)
Pro tip: Invest in reusable plastic luggage tag holders made for your cruise line’s tag size. They cost a few bucks and make you look like a seasoned cruiser—even if you’re still figuring out how to not get seasick on Deck 5.