Friday, November 1, 2013

Why Magnets?

Many years ago we learned about the benefit of using magnets on our cruises.  They are a great way to make the most of  the limited space in your ship's stateroom.  We use them to hold maps on the wall; keep the Princess Patter available; hold clothes on hangers; hold excursion tickets, etc., etc....The walls of the stateroom are steel that are covered with a thin wall covering.  The magnets stick to these walls without any problem.  Here are some of the magnets we use when  traveling.

(To enlarge, CLICK on the photo)

The "Tiny Mighties" shown on the metal plate are some of the best we have ever found.  The measure only 0.125 inches in diameter (about the size of a pencil eraser), but they are super strong.  You can purchase these in a 16 pack for around $10 on Amazon.  The larger magnets with the hooks are great for holding a jacket, lanyard, or something like a small camera.  They are about two inches in diameter and available on Amazon for about $4.95 for two.  Be sure that you get the ones described by users as strong or very strong.

On previous World Cruises we tried using the metal baskets held to the wall by magnets, but found them to be lacking in magnetic strength and not a good choice.

Two warning about magnets.  First, keep them away from your credit cards and sensitive electronic equipment.  This includes your Princess Cruise Card.  Also, be prepared to have TSA inspect your luggage or carry on bags that contain the magnets.  We have never lost any during inspection and TSA has always left a note in the luggage saying the bags had been inspected.