Courtesy urged when bringing luggage into cruise ship elevators

Cruise passengers may take luggage into ship elevators, but they should be mindful of available room and fellow guests, according to Texas-based etiquette expert Diane Gottsman. She advised riders to allow others to exit before entering and to wait for the next elevator if a car is crowded.

The issue drew attention after a first-time cruiser wrote on Reddit that another passenger scoffed at the traveler and their partner as they rode from Deck 14 to Deck 5 with rolling suitcases. Responses were mixed. Some commenters said luggage is acceptable when riders make space and remain considerate, while another favored the ship’s baggage-delivery service as an easier option for passengers.

Gottsman said travelers can place larger suitcases outside their cabin on the night before collection by crew members. During embarkation, however, timing may determine whether guests must handle their own bags. Carnival Cruise Line says its checked-baggage service closes two hours before a ship’s scheduled departure, and passengers arriving later are responsible for carrying their luggage aboard.