Cruise passengers erupt over 'rude' luggage habit that sharply divides travelers

Cruise passengers are debating a heated topic among vacation travelers who take to the ocean.

Does bringing luggage into crowded ship elevators cross a major etiquette line, especially on hectic disembarkation mornings? Those carrying their own bags often depend on elevators to move between decks as thousands of passengers prepare to leave the ship.

Now, social media posts are fueling a broader argument over whether squeezing suitcases into packed elevators is practical or just plain rude.

OUTRAGED CRUISE PASSENGERS SOUND OFF ABOUT ‘IMMENSE DISAPPOINTMENT’ AFTER ABRUPT CANCELLATION Diane Gottsman, an etiquette expert based in Texas, said passengers can bring luggage into elevators , though they should be considerate of the limited space.

"When it comes to traveling, space is a priority," Gottsman told Fox News Digital.

"You always have to think about the people that are going to be around you." Gottsman said passengers can leave larger suitcases outside their cabin the night before for crew members to collect.

"When possible, it's always best to keep your suitcases to a minimum when getting on a crowded cruise ship elevator," she said.

MAJOR AIRLINE ROASTS PASSENGERS WHO JUMP UP RIGHT AFTER LANDING, IGNITING FIERCE BACKLASH Passengers who prefer to carry their own luggage can do so, she added, but should be prepared to manage it themselves.

Cruise lines also have their own procedures for handling bags.

Carnival Cruise Line states on its website that checked baggage service during embarkation ends two hours before a ship's scheduled sailing time.

"Guests arriving after this time will be responsible for taking their bags on board," the cruise line states.

CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR LIFESTYLE NEWSLETTER Planning ahead is especially important on busy embarkation and disembarkation days, Gottsman said.

"We know when we're getting off a cruise ship, it's going to be busy," she said.

"Everyone is getting off the same cruise ship.