cruise packing list pdf free

Cruise Packing List for Dummies: 150+ Items & Free Printable PDF!

Posted on Last updated: February 9, 2024

Embarking on a cruise is an exhilarating journey, promising adventures on the high seas and unforgettable memories at exotic ports.

Whether you’re a cruising newbie or a seasoned sailor, our cruise packing list will help you navigate through 150 essential and optional items, ensuring you’re well-prepared for every moment on board.

So, without further ado, print out your free cruise packing list and let’s get started!

Essential Documents

Navigating the vast expanse of the ocean on a luxurious cruise liner is a dream for many, but even dreams need some practical groundwork.

That groundwork starts with essential documents as part of your cruise packing list. Imagine arriving at the port, the buzz of excited travelers around you, only to realize you’ve forgotten a crucial piece of paper.

To ensure you’re never in that nightmarish situation, we’ve compiled a list of must-have documents. Keep them handy, and you’ll have a seamless boarding experience.

Passport & Visa: Your primary identification when traveling internationally. Ensure they’re up-to-date with sufficient validity. Some destinations might require a visa, so do your research well in advance.

Boarding Passes & Cruise Tickets: Think of these as your golden tickets to paradise. Without them, the dream cruise remains just that – a dream. Always double-check your reservation details and timings.

Travel Insurance Documents: Hope for the best, but prepare for the unexpected. Travel insurance can be a lifesaver in emergencies. It can cover anything from medical expenses to trip cancellations, ensuring peace of mind throughout your journey.

Emergency Contact List: In the age of smartphones, we often forget numbers. A physical list of emergency contacts, including family, friends, and medical professionals, can be invaluable in case of mishaps.

Photocopies of All Important Documents: Loss or theft can happen, even in the middle of the ocean. Having photocopies (and digital backups) means you’re not completely stranded if the originals go missing.

Driver’s License or Other ID: While your passport is primary, having a secondary form of ID can be useful on your cruise packing list for in-port activities or rentals.

Medical Prescriptions and Health Insurance Cards: Your health is paramount. Always carry prescriptions for any medications you’re on, and don’t forget your health insurance details. It simplifies processes if you need medical attention.

Currency and Credit Cards: While most cruises are all-inclusive, when you disembark at various ports, you’ll need local currency or a universally accepted credit card for expenses.

With these documents on your cruise packing list, you’re not just packing papers; you’re packing confidence. Knowing you’re prepared for any administrative eventuality means you can focus on what truly matters: enjoying your cruise to the fullest.

The allure of cruising is its unique blend of relaxed leisure and sophisticated elegance. As the ship sails from one magnificent destination to another, the backdrop might change, but one constant remains: your need to feel comfortable and look fabulous.

Whether you’re lounging by the pool, exploring a local market, or attending a black-tie dinner, your wardrobe choices play a pivotal role.

Let’s help you pack cruise clothes that resonates with every mood and moment of your cruise adventure.

Casual Wear (Shorts, T-Shirts): Your day-to-day staples. Perfect for a sunny day on the ship’s deck, an impromptu volleyball match, or a laid-back lunch at the buffet. Remember, comfort is key here.

Formal Wear (For Cruise Dinners & Events): Many cruises host formal nights where elegance reigns supreme. A stylish dress or a sharp suit can make you feel like royalty. Don’t forget the matching shoes!

Swimwear : With pools, jacuzzis, and tropical beaches at many port stops, you’ll be glad you packed that swimsuit. Consider bringing more than one, so you always have a dry option.

Light Jacket or Sweater: Even in tropical paradises, evenings can get a tad chilly. A light jacket or sweater ensures you can enjoy the ocean breeze without the shivers.

Workout Clothes: For those motivated mornings or post-dessert guilt trips. Cruise ships often feature state-of-the-art gyms, and you might want to join a sunrise yoga class.

Comfortable Walking Shoes : Essential for those port excursions. You might end up walking more than anticipated while exploring, and the right shoes can be the difference between an adventure and an ordeal.

Sandals/Flip-Flops: Perfect for the poolside, spa, or beach. Easy to slip on and off and quintessential for a beachy vibe.

Hats & Sunglasses: Protect yourself from the sun’s rays while looking effortlessly stylish. A wide-brimmed hat or a snazzy pair of shades elevates any outfit.

Rain Jacket or Poncho: Tropical weather can be unpredictable. Stay dry during unexpected drizzles or showers.

Themed or Specialty Attire: Some cruises have themed nights – think ’70s disco or masquerade balls. Check in advance and pack accordingly to be part of the fun.

Dressing right on a cruise is more than just fashion; it’s about feeling in tune with your surroundings.

With a well-thought-out mix of cruise essentials and a sprinkle of specialty items, you can ensure that you’re not just dressed for the occasion, but you’re dressed for every memory you’re about to make on your cruise packing list.

Personal Care Items

Cruising is as much about the exhilarating experiences as it is about self-care and relaxation. As you sail the seven seas, ensuring that you maintain your personal hygiene and appearance is crucial.

After all, feeling great is integral to fully enjoying every moment. This section is your compass to the personal care essentials that should find a place on your cruise packing list.

Toiletries : The basics can make or break a trip. Toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, soap or body wash – pack travel-sized versions if you’re tight on space.

Sunscreen : You’ll likely be spending a lot of time under the sun. Protect your skin from harmful UV rays with a good sunscreen, and consider one that’s waterproof if you’re hitting the pool or beach.

Deodorant: Stay fresh as you hop from one activity to the next. Whether you prefer roll-on, stick, or spray, don’t forget to pack your trusty deodorant.

Moisturizer & After-Sun Lotion: The sun and sea can be drying. Keep your skin hydrated and soothe any sunburns with moisturizing lotions.

Razor & Shaving Cream: For those who prefer a smooth shave even while on vacation. Remember, even if the cruise has a store, these items can be pricey.

Makeup & Makeup Remover: Whether you’re aiming for a natural look or something more glamorous for the evening events, ensure you have your makeup essentials. And at the day’s end, a good makeup remover is a must.

Hair Care Products: Hair spray, gel, or your favorite styling product. With the sea breeze, having something to manage your mane can be handy.

Personal Hygiene Products: Such as sanitary napkins, tampons, or any other personal hygiene product you typically use. It’s always good to be prepared.

Nail Clippers & Tweezers: For those unexpected hangnails or stray brows. Small but essential tools.

Lip Balm: Salty sea air can be harsh on the lips. Keep them soft and moisturized with a good lip balm.

Travel Towel: While the cruise will provide towels, having a compact, quick-drying one can be handy for off-ship excursions or if you prefer your own.

Hand Sanitizer: A small bottle can go a long way, especially when you’re exploring ports and might not have immediate access to soap and water.

Travel Laundry Detergent: For those small emergencies or if you prefer washing certain items by hand. A sink-friendly detergent can be a lifesaver.

Looking great on a cruise is a blend of preparation and self-care. With these personal care items on your cruise packing list, you’ll not only feel refreshed but also face every day with confidence, ready to make the most of your cruising adventure.

Health and Medication

The majestic views, the rhythmic waves, and the promise of new horizons—cruises are an escapade into serenity. Yet, amidst all this, health should never take a back seat.

Whether it’s the thrill of adventures in foreign lands or simply indulging in on-board activities, being prepared on the health front ensures you can make the most of every moment.

Here’s our beacon of guidance on what to put on your cruise packing list for health and well-being during your cruise journey.

Prescription Medication: Always at the top of the list. If you have ongoing medications, ensure you pack enough for the trip’s duration and a bit extra. Keep them in their original packaging to avoid any customs issues.

First Aid Kit: A compact kit with essentials like band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and gauze can come in handy for minor accidents. You never know when you might need it, especially during excursions.

Over-the-Counter Medications: Think pain relievers, antacids, or allergy meds. Even if you don’t regularly use them, they’re good to have on hand for unexpected ailments.

Motion Sickness Remedies: The ocean isn’t always calm. Whether you opt for pills, wristbands, or natural remedies, it’s wise to have something for potential seasickness.

Insect Repellent: Depending on your destinations, this can be crucial. Protect yourself from unwanted insect bites, especially in tropical locations.

Water Purification Tablets or Bottle: For those stops at places where tap water might be questionable. Staying hydrated is crucial, but so is ensuring the water is safe to drink.

Vitamins and Supplements: If you’re on a daily regimen, remember to pack them. Even on vacation, it’s essential to keep up with your health routines.

Digestive Health Items: Travel can sometimes upset your system. Pack items like probiotics, anti-diarrhea medicine, or anything else you trust to keep your digestive system in check.

Sleep Aids: New environments and time zones can disrupt sleep. If you occasionally use sleep aids, they might be worth adding to your cruise packing list, whether they’re over-the-counter meds or natural remedies like melatonin.

Contraceptives: If you use them, don’t forget to pack them. Better safe than sorry.

Ear Plugs & Sleep Mask: For a peaceful night’s sleep, especially if you’re sensitive to unfamiliar noises or lights.

Hand and Face Wipes: For quick refreshers. They can be especially handy after long excursions or activities.

Personal Medical History & Doctor’s Contact: In the rare event of a medical emergency, having a brief medical history and your primary physician’s contact can be invaluable.

Health and wellness are foundations for any memorable trip. A cruise, with its blend of relaxation and adventure, is no exception.

By ensuring you’ve packed smartly for all health-related scenarios, you’re setting yourself up for a journey where every day is lived to the fullest, free from unnecessary worries.

Gadgets and Electronics

As the waves whisper stories of far-off lands and the ship sails into the horizon, modern travelers know the importance of staying connected and capturing memories.

In the digital age, gadgets and electronics aren’t just conveniences—they’re essential companions.

Whether you’re a tech junkie or a casual user, this cruise packing list section will guide you through the electronic cruise accessories to pack for a seamless cruise experience.

Camera & Extra Memory Cards: From the vastness of the open sea to the intricate details of local markets, there’s a lot to capture. A good camera ensures you don’t miss a moment. And extra memory cards? They ensure you never run out of space.

Smartphone & Charger: Your multipurpose tool—camera, communication device, map, and more. And its charger, because what’s a smartphone without power?

Portable Charger/Power Bank: Especially useful during long excursions ashore. A reliable power bank ensures your devices stay charged even away from the ship.

Universal Travel Adapter: Cruise ships and foreign ports might have different outlets. An adapter ensures you can plug in wherever you are.

Headphones or Earbuds: For those personal music moments, movie nights, or simply when you want to block out the world and relax.

E-reader or Tablet: Carry a library with you without the weight. Perfect for poolside reading or winding down in the evening.

Laptop (if necessary): For those who might need to check in with work, edit photos on-the-go, or stream movies.

Smartwatch or Fitness Tracker: Keep track of your steps during excursions or monitor your health. Plus, it’s an easy way to check the time without pulling out your phone.

Waterproof Phone Case or Pouch: For those beach excursions or poolside lounging moments. Protect your devices from unwanted splashes.

USB Flash Drive: Handy for transferring or storing photos, especially if you plan on sharing with fellow travelers.

Travel Router (if staying connected is a priority): Some ships offer Wi-Fi, but having a personal travel router can sometimes give a more reliable connection.

Portable Speaker (waterproof, if possible): For impromptu dance parties in your cabin or background music during sunset gazing. Just ensure you’re respectful of your neighbors!

Digital Luggage Scale: Avoid overpacking or fees by ensuring your luggage is within the weight limits, especially useful if you’re flying to or from the cruise port.

Electronics enrich our travels in myriad ways, from capturing memories to facilitating convenience.

While disconnecting occasionally on your cruise is therapeutic, having these gadgets ensures you have the choice to connect when you wish.

As you pack these cruise packing list essentials, remember to also consider insurance or protective cases for your pricey items, ensuring they stay safe and functional throughout your journey.

Entertainment

Cruising is often a delightful blend of excitement and relaxation. While there’s a plethora of activities to enjoy onboard and at various ports, there will be moments when you crave personal entertainment.

Perhaps it’s a day at sea, a quiet evening on the balcony, or just some downtime in your cabin. Whatever the scenario, it’s great to be equipped with a mix of entertaining resources to keep you engaged.

Books: Dive into a gripping novel, a travel guide about your next port, or a magazine as the sea breezes by. Even in the digital age, there’s something magical about flipping through real pages with the sound of waves in the background.

Board Games or Card Games: Perfect for those lazy afternoons or evenings with family and friends. From classics like Scrabble or Uno to travel-sized versions of your favorite games, they’re fantastic social entertainment to add to your cruise packing list.

Journal or Notepad: Document your journey, doodle, or even pen down postcard messages. It’s therapeutic and creates a keepsake of your memories.

Coloring Books & Colored Pencils: Adult coloring books have surged in popularity. They’re not just fun but also a meditative way to relax.

Music Playlist or Streaming Service Subscription: Create a cruise-themed playlist or enjoy your favorite tunes as you sail. With offline modes available on many streaming platforms, your music can accompany you even without Wi-Fi.

Movies or TV Show Downloads: While many cruise cabins offer entertainment systems, having your favorite shows or films on your device ensures you’re entertained even during Wi-Fi downtimes.

Puzzle Books (Crosswords, Sudoku, etc.): Engage your brain and pass the time with some challenging (or not-so-challenging) puzzles.

Crafting or Knitting Supplies: If you’re into crafting or knitting, the calm of the sea can be the perfect backdrop to some creative time.

Portable Video Games: Devices like the Nintendo Switch or other handhelds can be great for personal entertainment or even multiplayer fun with fellow travelers.

Audiobooks or Podcasts: Download a captivating story or a series of informative podcasts. They’re perfect companions for a sunbathing session or even a workout in the ship’s gym.

Language Learning Apps or Guides: Heading to foreign ports? Use the journey time to pick up a few local phrases. It enhances the travel experience and is a fantastic way to engage your mind.

Binoculars: Not strictly for entertainment, but these can amplify the joy of spotting distant islands, marine life, or even stars on a clear night.

While cruises are a treasure trove of entertainment options, having personal choices on your cruise packing list truly enhances the experience.

It ensures that in every moment—whether action-packed or leisurely—you’re immersed in enjoyment, making the most of your voyage.

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Amidst the frenzy of packing clothes, documents, and tech gadgets, there’s a realm of often-overlooked items that can significantly enhance your cruise experience.

These aren’t always the first things that come to mind, but trust us—they’re absolute game-changers. This section delves into those miscellaneous must-haves that might not scream “essential” but often prove to be invaluable during your journey on your cruise packing list.

Ziplock Bags: These are versatile wonders. Keep your belongings dry during beach excursions, separate wet swimwear, or even store snacks for a day out.

Travel Pillow: Be it for an unexpected nap on the sundeck or ensuring better sleep in your cabin, a familiar and comfortable pillow can make all the difference.

Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated without constantly purchasing bottled water. It’s eco-friendly and ensures you have a drink on hand during excursions.

Snacks: While all-inclusive cruises offer an abundance of food, having some of your favorite snacks on your cruise packing list can be comforting, especially for mid-adventure munching.

Backpack or Daypack: Perfect for carrying essentials during port excursions. Make sure it’s comfortable and lightweight.

Waterproof Phone Pouch: Protect your phone from splashes, sand, or an accidental dip during beach visits or water activities.

Highlighters & Pens: Highlight activities you’re interested in on the daily itinerary provided by the cruise line. And pens? Always handy.

Door Decorations: Some cruise enthusiasts love personalizing their cabin doors. It adds a touch of home and makes your room easily identifiable in the long corridors.

Sticky Notes or Dry Erase Board: Leave notes for your cabin mates or keep track of daily plans. It’s old-school but effective.

Clothespins or Clips: Useful for hanging wet clothes or simply keeping your towel in place on the deck chair.

Tote Bag: An eco-friendly option for shopping at ports or carrying essentials around the ship.

Earplugs: If you’re a light sleeper, these can be lifesavers, especially if there’s ambient noise or if your cabin is close to high-traffic areas.

Extension Cord or Power Strip: With the number of gadgets we carry, cabin outlets might not suffice. Ensure it’s cruise-friendly and doesn’t have surge protection, as many cruise lines prohibit those.

Nightlight: Cabin rooms can get exceptionally dark. A small nightlight ensures you find your way without disturbing others.

Lanyard for Cruise Card: Many travelers find it convenient to hang their cruise card (used for room access and onboard purchases) around their neck, especially if you’re prone to misplacing things.

These items might seem trivial, but they epitomize the saying, “It’s the little things that matter.” By ensuring you pack these miscellaneous must-haves, you’re not just preparing for a cruise; you’re optimizing for an experience that’s as seamless as it is memorable.

Optional But Handy

There’s packing, and then there’s pro-level packing. This section is for those travelers who love to be ultra-prepared, reveling in the comfort of knowing they’ve thought of everything.

While these items aren’t necessities for everyone, they can significantly enhance the cruise experience for many, turning potential minor inconveniences into moments of “I’m so glad I packed that!”

Binoculars: Eager to spot distant islands, ships, or marine life? These are your best friends. Especially if you have a balcony cabin, binoculars can bring the horizon a little closer.

Travel Journal: Sure, photos capture memories, but a journal captures feelings. Document your journey, the people you meet, and the unique moments that photos might miss.

Collapsible Laundry Basket: For those longer cruises, this helps keep your dirty clothes organized and makes the trip to the ship’s laundromat easier.

Portable Clothesline: A nifty tool if you prefer washing some items by hand in your cabin. String it up in the bathroom and let your clothes dry.

Corkscrew/Bottle Opener: If you’re bringing wine or beverages onboard (as per the cruise line’s alcohol policy), adding this to your cruise packing list ensures you’re not left staring at a sealed bottle.

Small Umbrella or Poncho: Weather can be unpredictable. A compact umbrella or poncho can easily fit in your daypack for those unexpected showers.

Thermal Flask/Coffee Mug: Keep your coffee hot or your water chilled as you roam around the ship.

Portable Fan: Especially useful for those who prefer a breeze while sleeping or for quickly drying wet items.

Sewing Kit: For those unexpected wardrobe malfunctions. A small kit with some needles, threads, and buttons can be a savior.

Extra Glasses/Contact Lenses: Your vision is paramount. If you wear corrective lenses, having a spare can prevent potential inconveniences.

Magnets or Over-the-Door Organizer: Cruise cabin walls are usually metal. Use magnets to pin daily itineraries or an organizer for added storage space.

White Noise Machine or App: If you’re sensitive to unfamiliar sounds while sleeping, this can help mask unwanted noises and ensure a peaceful rest.

Beach Toys (for kids or the young at heart): Building sandcastles or beach games can add an extra layer of fun during shore excursions.

Scuba Diving or Snorkeling Gear: If water adventures are on your agenda and you prefer using your own equipment, consider packing them.

Reusable Straw: Eco-friendly and handy, especially if you’re particular about how you sip your favorite drinks.

Having these optional items on your cruise packing list showcases foresight and an anticipation of needs that many might overlook. They epitomize the traveler’s mantra: “It’s better to have it and not need it than to need it and not have it.”

While they might not be essentials for every cruiser, they certainly add an extra layer of convenience, ensuring your voyage is as smooth as the calmest seas.

Commonly Forgotten Items on a Cruise

Cruises are a whirlwind of excitement. Amidst the anticipation, even the most seasoned travelers sometimes forget items that would have made their trip just a bit smoother.

These aren’t always big-ticket items, but their absence on your cruise packing list can sometimes lead to inconveniences or missed opportunities. Let’s dive into those commonly overlooked essentials, so you can ensure they find a place in your luggage.

Over-the-Counter Medications: Yes, there’s usually a medical center onboard. However, why pay marked-up prices for simple pain relievers or antacids when you could easily bring them along?

Extra Swimsuit: One might be enough on your cruise packing list, but having a second ensures you always have a dry option, enhancing comfort and spontaneity for that dip in the pool or jacuzzi.

Sea Bands or Ginger Tablets: Even if you’ve never experienced seasickness, cruises can be unpredictable. Having a non-drowsy remedy on hand can be a game-changer.

Formal Attire Accessories: While you might remember your formal dress or suit, it’s the tie, cufflinks, or matching jewelry that sometimes get left behind.

Refillable Drink Container: Many cruisers forget that while drinks might be available, having a personal container can be more convenient and eco-friendly.

Extra Sunscreen: You might remember to pack sunscreen, but underestimating how much you need is common. The sun at sea is fierce, and reapplying is crucial.

Water Shoes: Great for rocky beaches or excursions that involve water. They can protect your feet and offer better grip.

Daily Backpack or Tote: While luggage and evening bags are often remembered, a simple daily bag for excursions or lounging on the ship can be overlooked.

Chapstick with SPF: The lips are one of the most forgotten areas when it comes to sun protection. An SPF lip balm can save you from the unpleasantness of sunburned lips.

Room Freshener or Essential Oils: Cruise cabins, especially bathrooms, can get stuffy. A mild freshener can keep your living space pleasant.

Dress Socks or Hosiery: In the flurry of packing, these small items often get overlooked, only to be missed when dressing up for formal nights.

Conditioner or Special Hair Products: While cruises might provide basic toiletries, they often lack conditioners or specific hair products. If you’re particular about hair care, don’t forget these.

Outlet Multiplier or USB Hub: Cruise cabin outlets can be limited. Expanding your charging capabilities can be especially handy when multiple devices need juice.

Local Currency (in small denominations): While credit cards are widely accepted, having some local currency for tips or small vendors at port stops can be invaluable.

Reading Glasses or Prescription Sunglasses: Overlooked, especially if they’re not used daily, but oh-so-essential when you need them.

No one’s perfect, and the excitement of a looming cruise can scatter even the sharpest minds. This list is your safeguard against those “Oh, I wish I’d remembered to pack that!” moments.

Double-checking against these important cruise packing list items ensures that, big or small, you have everything you need to set sail with confidence.

Extra Items Depending on Itinerary

Every cruise is unique, shaped not just by the ship but also by the destinations on the itinerary. A Caribbean voyage is vastly different from an Alaskan expedition or a European river cruise .

As such, packing without considering your specific route might lead to some significant oversights. Let’s delve into items you might need, tailored to various popular cruise itineraries.

Tropical or Caribbean Cruises

• Aloe Vera Gel: Sunburns are more common closer to the equator. A good soothing gel can provide relief.
• Beach Bag: For those sandy shores and picturesque beaches.
• Insect Repellent: Tropical paradises often come with pesky mosquitoes.

Alaskan or Northern Cruises

• Warm Clothing: Layers are your best friend here. Think thermal wear, fleece jackets, and warm hats.
• Waterproof Boots: For those icy terrains or wet landings.
• Gloves and Scarves: Keeping extremities warm is essential in colder climates.

European or River Cruises

• Comfortable Walking Shoes: European towns are best explored on foot, often on cobbled streets.
• Plug Adapters: Europe’s electrical outlets are different from those in North America.
• Lightweight Rain Jacket: Weather can be unpredictable, especially in places like the British Isles.

Asian Cruises

• Travel Guide or Translation App: Navigating diverse cultures and languages can be challenging.
• Face Masks: In some Asian cities, wearing a mask can be a norm, especially during high pollution days or certain health outbreaks.
• Conservative Clothing: For visiting temples or religious sites.

Adventure or Expedition Cruises (e.g., Galapagos, Antarctica )

• Specialized Gear: Depending on activities, think snorkel gear, hiking poles, or even waterproof pants.
• Binoculars: Enhance wildlife spotting opportunities.
• Specialty Footwear: Sturdy hiking boots or even mud boots for wet landings.

Middle Eastern Cruises

• Headscarf or Shawl: Essential for women when visiting mosques or religious sites.
• Sun Hat and Lightweight Long Sleeves: Protect from the sun while respecting local customs.
• Hand Sanitizer: Handy as you traverse through traditional markets or street food areas.

Australian or New Zealand Cruises

• Reef-Safe Sunscreen: If you’re exploring the Great Barrier Reef or other marine areas.
• Daypack: For hiking or exploring the diverse terrains.
• Swim Gear: The beaches down under are tempting!

Remember, the joy of cruising lies in its diversity. Every destination offers a new world of experiences, landscapes, and cultures.

By tailoring your packing list to your specific itinerary, you ensure that you’re not just ready for a cruise, but you’re ready for your cruise.

How Best to Pack for a Cruise

Cruises are a unique blend of relaxation and adventure. While the idea of sailing into the horizon is thrilling, packing for such a journey can be a daunting task.

How do you maximize limited luggage space, ensure you’ve got everything you need, and still manage to navigate airline weight restrictions if you’re flying to the port?

Here’s a guide to help you pack this cruise packing list like a pro, ensuring your cruise starts on the right note.

1. Start with a Checklist: Before you even touch your suitcase, make a checklist. Our comprehensive packing guide above is a great place to start. Tailor it to your needs, ensuring nothing is overlooked.

2. Embrace Packing Cubes: These small zippered containers compartmentalize your items, making it easier to organize clothes and find items quickly. Plus, they help compress clothes, saving space.

3. Roll, Don’t Fold: Rolling clothes instead of folding can free up more space and reduce wrinkles. For bulkier items, consider using compression bags.

4. Limit Shoe Choices: Shoes can be bulky. Prioritize versatility. A pair of comfortable walking shoes, formal shoes for dinners, and a pair of sandals or flip-flops can cover most needs.

5. Pack Versatile Clothing: Think layers and outfits that can transition from day to night with a few tweaks. Neutral colors can be easily mixed and matched.

6. Use Inside of Shoes: It’s wasted space! Stuff socks, underwear, or even toiletries inside.

7. Pack Toiletries Strategically: Use travel-sized containers. Consider double bagging to prevent leaks. If you’re particular about brands, decant products into smaller bottles.

8. Heavy Items at the Bottom: When packing your suitcase, heavier items like shoes should be at the wheelbase. This distributes weight more evenly and makes your bag easier to manage.

9. Consider a Carry-On Only Approach: If you’re on a shorter cruise, this can be a game-changer. Not only does it force you to prioritize essentials, but it also makes embarkation and debarkation smoother.

10. Leave Some Space: Chances are you’ll return with more than you left with, be it souvenirs, gifts, or duty-free purchases. Ensure there’s a little wiggle room in your suitcase.

11. Waterproof Everything: Invest in a waterproof bag for excursions. Also, consider packing a few resealable plastic bags. They’re handy for storing wet swimwear or protecting electronics.

12. Medications in Hand Luggage: Always pack essential medications in your carry-on. You don’t want to be caught out if your checked luggage gets delayed or misplaced.

13. Jewelry and Valuables: These should always be in your hand luggage. Consider using a jewelry roll or even pill containers to organize and protect individual pieces.

14. Dress in Your Bulkiest Items: If you’re flying to the port and worried about luggage weight, wear heavier items like boots or jackets. You can always stash them away once onboard.

15. Digital Backup: Consider scanning important documents like passports, ID, and travel insurance, and store them securely in a cloud or an offline device. This can be a lifesaver in case of loss or theft.

16. Last-Minute Essentials Bag: Pack a small bag with items you’ll need immediately upon boarding (like swimwear or medications). This ensures you can kick off your cruise without waiting for your primary luggage to be delivered to your cabin.

By approaching cruise packing with a strategic mindset, you transform it from a daunting task into a seamless part of the travel experience.

Remember, cruising is all about relaxation and exploration, and starting off organized sets the tone for a journey you’ll cherish forever.

Setting sail on a cruise is more than just a vacation—it’s an odyssey of experiences, memories, and adventures.

While the vast oceans and enticing cruise ports beckon, ensuring you’re well-prepared is the key to truly immersive enjoyment. Our comprehensive packing guide is your trusty compass, steering you away from common oversights and towards a journey where every moment is cherished.

As you zip up your suitcase and anticipate the horizon, take a moment to relish the excitement. With every cruise essential (and a few extras) in tow, you’re not just embarking on a cruise; you’re diving headfirst into a voyage of a lifetime. Safe travels!

FAQs on Cruise Packing List

Navigating the ins and outs of cruise packing can sometimes feel as complex as plotting a ship’s course. But fret not! We’ve compiled answers to some of the most frequently asked questions to ensure smooth sailing as you prepare for your journey.

1. Can I bring my own alcohol on a cruise? It varies by cruise line. Some allow a limited quantity of wine or champagne, while others might charge a corkage fee. Always check your cruise line’s specific policy beforehand.

2. How many suitcases can I bring? Most cruise lines don’t have a strict luggage limit, but remember, cabin space is limited. It’s wise to pack efficiently, considering both your needs and storage constraints.

3. Do I need formal attire on a cruise? Many cruises host formal nights or events. If participating appeals to you, pack appropriate attire . However, there’s usually no obligation, and alternative dining options are available for those who’d rather keep it casual.

4. Is there a laundromat on board? Many modern cruise ships offer self-service laundromats or paid laundry services. Check with your specific cruise line to know what’s available.

5. Can I pack a hairdryer or iron? While hairdryers are generally allowed (and often provided in cabins), irons are usually prohibited due to fire safety concerns. If you need to smoothen out your clothes, consider wrinkle-release sprays or utilize the ship’s laundry services.

6. Do cruise ships provide toiletries? Yes, most cruise cabins come equipped with basic toiletries like shampoo, body wash, and soap. However, if you have specific brands or products you prefer, it’s a good idea to pack them.

7. Should I bring cash or just rely on credit cards? While many transactions onboard will be charged to your cruise account, it’s wise to carry a mix of cash (especially for smaller ports or tips) and credit cards for flexibility during shore excursions.

8. Are there power outlets in cruise cabins? Yes, but their number and type might vary depending on the ship and its origin. It’s always handy to bring a universal adapter and consider a power strip (without surge protection) for multiple devices.

9. How can I minimize the risk of seasickness? Packing motion sickness remedies like wristbands, ginger tablets, or over-the-counter medications can be helpful. Additionally, mid-ship cabins on lower decks tend to experience less motion.

10. Can I bring snacks or food on board? Cruise lines have different policies, but in general, bringing non-perishable, pre-packaged snacks is usually allowed. Check with your specific cruise line regarding their policy on bringing food onboard.

11. What should I pack for excursions ashore? Consider the nature of the excursion. For beach outings, bring swimwear, towels, and sunscreen. For city tours, comfortable walking shoes, a hat, and a daypack might be essential. Always carry some local currency, your cruise ID, and a copy of your passport.

12. Do cruise ships have Wi-Fi, and should I pack my devices? Most modern cruise ships offer Wi-Fi, though it might be at an extra cost and may not be as fast as your home connection. Packing devices like tablets, e-readers, or laptops can be handy for entertainment and staying connected.

13. How can I secure my valuables on the ship? Most cruise cabins come equipped with safes. Use them for storing passports, jewelry, or other valuables when you’re not using them. Also, consider investing in anti-theft bags or pouches for excursions.

14. Do I need to pack beach towels? While most cruise lines provide towels for onboard and shore use, some travelers prefer to bring a lightweight, quick-drying towel for excursions.

15. Is there a dress code for dining on the cruise? While daytime dining is usually casual, evening meals, especially in the main dining room, might have a dress code ranging from smart casual to formal. Always check your cruise line’s specific guidelines.

16. Should I bring my snorkeling or diving gear? If you’re an enthusiast and particular about your equipment, bringing your own might be a good idea. However, many excursions offer rental gear, so weigh the convenience against luggage space.

17. Can I pack bottled water or soda? Policies vary by cruise line. Some allow guests to bring a limited quantity of bottled water or soda, while others might charge a fee. It’s crucial to check the cruise line’s specific policy.

18. How do I manage packing for a family, especially with kids? Consider using packing cubes to organize items for each family member. Don’t forget kid-specific items like games, favorite snacks, or comfort items. For infants, ensure you pack essentials like baby food, diapers, and wipes, as these might be pricey or unavailable onboard.

19. Are there restrictions on what I can pack? Yes. Most cruise lines prohibit items like illegal drugs, weapons, candles, drones, and certain electrical appliances. Always check the cruise line’s prohibited items list.

20. Should I pack specialty items for themed nights or events? Many cruises have themed events like “White Night” or “Pirate Night.” It can be fun to participate, so if you’re keen, pack accordingly. However, participation is typically optional.

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Free, Printable and Ultimate Cruise Packing Checklist

Cruise booked? Excited to sail but not sure what to bring? I got you! I just got back from a January 2023 sailing with Celebrity Cruises on the Beyond Cruise Ship. (Which I loved!) I am going to share with you everything I packed to bring on my Celebrity cruise (which includes my favorite cruise and travel items) and a FREE PRINTABLE cruise packing checklist. This cruise packing list will make easy work of packing for your cruise. Keep scrolling for the free and printable cruise checklist, what to pack in your carry on, my favorite cruise items and what not bring on a cruise.

At Pragmatic Travelers , we only recommend what we have actually experienced and the travel products we love. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. This page contains affiliate links of products that I trust and use when I travel. This means I get a commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links, at no cost to you. Again, I only recommend products that I have used and trust.

Thinking of sailing with Celebrity Cruises? Check out our review of the Celebrity Beyond Review .

Table of Contents

Best Items I Brought on my Cruise

Samsonite freeform carry on.

I hate checking my bags. So I always bring a carry on/personal item. This Samsonite Freeform Carry On suitcase did just the trick. I was able to fit multiple outfits and shoes into this suitcase. It fit easily under the stateroom bed and was a breeze around airports. Practical and reliable! 

Lily & Drew Carry On Weekender/Shoulder Bag

Travel Space Saver Bags

Mangopop Long Sleeve Bodysuit

Soft White Sweater

Silky V-Neck Midi Slip Dress

What I packed: Cruise Packing List

Important items.

• Passport/photo ID
• Cruise materials and shore excursion materials (if necessary)
• Wallet with CASH. I can’t tell you how important that was. I brought cash with me and the cruise staff helped break down large bills.
• Printed luggage tags
• Cell phone with charger
• Portable charger
• Insurance Cards and COVID Vaccine Card

Clothing & Accessories

• Workout gear for exercise and walking to the beach
• Underwear/socks/bras
• Bathing Suits/coverup
• 3 bodysuits (easy to mix and match for the evening)
• 2 dresses and 2 skirts
• 2 pairs of linen shorts
• 2 tank tops
• Sneakers, sandals, nice pair of flats
• Small clutch that fit my phone and credit cards
• Collapsible tote bag with a zipper to bring to the beach
• Spare pair of glasses

Bathroom Gear

• Toothbrush, toothpaste
• Daily moisturizer with SPF, concealer and eye liner
• Night cream and eye cream
• Shower gel (didn’t use it much. I just used what they provided.)
• Shampoo, conditioner, gel and a volume product
• Body lotion
• Portable diffuser for my curly hair
• Sunscreen and bus spray
• Powdered laundry detergent (Just in case)

Medical Gear

• Personal medications
• Pain Relief, Imodium, Stool Softners
• Masks and hand sanitizer

Miscellaneous

• Headphones and charger
• Kindle with charger
• Lip Balm with SPF
• Wrinkle Release Spray

What should be in your carry on bag?

• Passport, photo ID, wallet, cash
• Important cruise documents
• Personal medications and motion sickness medication (if needed)
• Change of clothes, bathing suit and sandals
• Jewelry and valuables
• Entertainment gear like your Kindle or games
• Sunscreen and sunglasses

Don’t bring these items on a cruise

• Irons and steamers
• Candles and incense
• Homemade snacks
• Liquor, beer, cider
• Weapons of any kind
• CBD products
• Large floats for the pool
• Beach towels
• Coffee makers, tea kettles, mug warmers

Free/Printable Cruise Packing Checklist

You may also like..., the best budget friendly day in costa maya (actually in mahahual).

The Perfect BUDGET FRIENDLY Day in Nassau (for the cruisers)

The ULTIMATE Review: Nachi Cocom Cozumel Beach Club

How to Enjoy Cocktails on a Road Trip

Printable Cruise Packing List + What to Pack for a Cruise

15 cruise packing tips and a free cruise packing list to help ensure you’re ready to set sail! Print your free checklist and get ready for the vacation of a lifetime!

This cruise packing list post is in partnership with Princess Cruises. All opinions are 100% my own. 

It doesn’t matter if you’re sailing to Cancun , Roatan, Honduras , or Freeport, Bahamas ; this checklist will cover everything you’ll need so you can sit by the pool and enjoy a refreshing Dirty Monkey knowing you didn’t leave anything at home!

What to Pack For A Cruise

My husband and I recently returned from the best Caribbean cruise! We spent a week onboard the beautiful Caribbean Princess, celebrating my husband’s 40th birthday. A Princess cruise is a great way to celebrate a special occasion, and I already want to go back!

You’d be surprised at how little you need to pack for a cruise. Most people spend the week in the same pair of shorts, swapping out a few favorite t-shirts. You definitely don’t need an outfit for every day, nor do you usually wear more than just flip-flops around the ship. But there are some things you need to plan for and some helpful items that seasoned cruisers all consider a must!

Today I’ll show you my personal list of what to pack for a cruise. Even though we went on a  Caribbean cruise, these items are perfect no matter where you’re sailing. Take a look –

Things to Pack for a Cruise

10 items you might not have thought of that can save you some headache and offer a ton of convenience! 

1. Ziploc Bags

I learned how handy Ziploc bags can be on a cruise ship years ago, and this is always the first piece of advice I offer to first-time cruisers. Not only can use them on board to save food, snacks, and leftover room service in your cabin refrigerator, but you can take them on excursions to keep your phone, camera, and ID away from sand and water. Bigger plastic bags can also be used to store wet bathing suits and water shoes so your other clothes don’t get wet and dirty on your way home.

2. Backpack

Leave the designer handbag on board and bring a backpack to all your excursions. Not only are they safe and less likely to be set down and forgotten, but they also come in handy if you plan to purchase souvenirs. Things to pack in your backpack include – your driver’s license (leave your passport in your cabin), your wallet, a bottle of water, sunscreen, and perhaps a towel.

3. Portable Charger

Even though your phone will most likely stay in airplane mode for the duration of your cruise, you’ll still drain your battery using your phone for an alarm clock, a camera, and to check the ship’s app throughout the day. It is also a good measure for safety in your various ports of call. Having a portable charger allows you to charge your phone or tablet back to full battery life – no outlet needed.

• Here is a portable charger on Amazon with great reviews for less than $10.

4. Waterproof Cell Case

Another cell phone accessory I found to be extremely helpful on our last cruise was a waterproof cell phone case on a lanyard. They are cheap (less than $10 at Walmart) and they not only protect your phone, they are a great way to carry cash or a credit card too! We did a few water excursions on our Princess cruise, and I used my cell phone as my camera at each port, so I was constantly using it.

The plastic case allows you to still access your touch screen, and it was so handy to have it around my neck and know that it wasn’t being lost or stolen. Also, when we were in the Cayman Islands it rained on us – hard! Thanks to my waterproof case, I never had to worry about my phone getting wet, or sandy. I even took it on our Zip Lining Excursion and felt secure enough to use my camera while soaring over the jungle!

• Here are a few waterproof cell phone cases , similar to the one I bought at Walmart. They also start at around $6.

5. Power Strip for more outlets.

Most staterooms on a cruise ship don’t have very many outlets. If you are traveling with your family or have multiple people in one room, it could be a fight over who gets to charge their cell phones or tablets each night. A power strip takes up very little space in your luggage and they are affordable too!

• This power strip has USB outlets and is nice and compact
• This universal adapter will allow you to use any European outlet(s) in your cabin.

6. Over the Door Shoe Rack

There isn’t a lot of extra space or storage in your cruise cabin, so hanging a shoe rack with pockets is a great way to organize smaller items. Toiletries, chargers, kid’s toys, cameras… they fit perfectly in a pocket where they are off the floor, spotted at a glance, and are easily accessible.

7. Nightlight

If you have an inside cabin, a small nightlight can help a child who might be afraid of the dark. It also comes in handy to light the way to the bathroom for an adult who likes to see where they are going! (It gets DARK in those rooms!)

8. Sunscreen + Extra Sunscreen

Make sure you bring more sunscreen than you think you’ll need. Years ago my husband got a pretty nasty sunburn on day 3 or 4 of our cruise and it nearly ruined the rest of his cruise experience – he was miserable!!! If you do run out of sunscreen, the ship will sell some to you, but you’ll pay a pretty penny for it!

9. Bug spray

A lot of excursions suggest bringing bug spray, and it’s for a good reason! On one cruise we did years ago, we decided at the last minute to do an excursion to some ruins. The experience was completely unforgettable, but we were definitely not equipped for the bugs and mosquitos all along the trail. Now, bug spray is one of the very first things I put in my toiletries bag… just in case!

10. First Aid Kit + Medicine Bag

Just as it is unlikely that you’ll ever get bored on a cruise, it is also unlikely to become seasick too! All cruise ships have a medical office where you can get treated for small injuries and illnesses, so if you forget to pack bandaids or Tylenol, no worries. For peace of mind, I try to remember a travel first aid kit and some simple medicines – especially if I am traveling with kids. Here is what I like to include –

• Tylenol / Motrin / Ibuprofen for headaches or fevers
• cough medicine (nothing worse than being in tight quarters with a kid coughing all night long!
• Benadryl – this helped with my husband’s sunburn. (Knocked him out so he was able to sleep!)
• aloe vera lotion – to soothe any sunburns
• Dramamine (for adults and kids) I’ve never had to use this, but on the off chance that someone in your party starts to feel queasy, it’s better to be prepared.

Cruise Packing Tips

5 helpful cruise packing tips to remember.

• passport / ID
• wallet with money and credit cards
• cruise documents
• medications
• bathing suit
• items for kids/babies (bottles, favorite toys, blankets, etc.)
• Leave the hair dryer at home. Most cruise cabins provide a hard dryer, so you can save some serious space in your luggage.
• When we go to the beach, I bring a disposable diaper to wrap my cell phone, keys, and wallet in. (A clean one, obviously!) Not only is a big white blob harder to lose in the sand, but it also keeps potential thieves from stealing my things. (Just make sure your entire party knows what you’re doing so no one tries to be helpful and tosses it in the trash. 🙂 
• On our last Princess cruise, I saw several passengers use colorful spring clamps on the top of their deck lounge chairs to keep their towels in place – genius!! This idea also helps you identify your spot after a dip in the pool. Those bright-colored clamps stand out in a sea of striped towels! 
• Bring half of what you initially packed. Lay out everything you think you need, then set aside half of it. This guarantees you only bring the essentials. (If you do run out of things to wear, Princess Cruises has a laundry facility available too!)

Cruise Packing Checklist

Now that I’ve shared some helpful tips, let’s look at a list of evvvvvvverything you need while packing for a cruise!

Essentials –

• Passport + Drivers License / Personal ID
• Wallet with credit card + cash

Clothing –

• Formal Night clothes + shoes – You will see attire all across the fancy spectrum, from tuxedos and ballgowns to nice slacks and cute sundresses.
• daily clothes – shorts, shirts, tank tops, 1 pair of pants/ jeans
• sandals/ flip flops
• closed-toe shoes (some shore excursions require it)
• water shoes (some excursions recommend it)
• nicer clothes + shoes for dinner in the dining room
• swimsuit cover-up
• exercise clothes + shoes (if hitting the gym is your thing)
• sweatshirt/jacket (evenings on the deck can be windy and cold)
• rain jacket or poncho (our last cruise rained EVERY DAY!)
• jewelry, belts, accessories

Electronics –

• power strip to charge all your devices
• cell phone + charger
• portable cell phone charger
• camera + charger / batteries
• iPad/Kindle/ Laptop + all chargers
• selfie stick
• watch (for time changes)
• straightener / curling iron

Toiletries –

• hairspray + hair products
• toothbrush, toothpaste, mouthwash + floss
• conditioner (save room by using the cruise-provided soap and shampoo)
• meds – dramamine, Benadryl, Tylenol, motrin etc.
• bug repellant
• nail clippers + emery board + nail polish
• razor + shaving cream
• first aid kit

Misc. / Optional

• backpack/day pack
• waterproof cell phone case
• over-the-door shoe rack
• ziplock bags
• books + magazines
• water bottle
• snorkel gear (excursions will usually provide you with some)
• playing cards

More Great Cruise Tips

• Making The Most Of Your Days At Sea
• 10 Best Cruise Tips
• The Best Things To See & Do In Nassau
• How To Give Someone A Surprise Vacation

You’ve read all our tips on how to pack for a cruise. It’s time to download a copy of our Cruise Packing List and fill it in with everything you think you’ll need! Enter your name and email address below for immediate access –

Now that you know how to pack for a cruise, tell me – is there anything I forgot to add to our list?

Leave me a comment in the section below!

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Cruises allow checked baggage as well as carry-ons. To be on the safe side, you should split up what you pack and bring the most essential items in your carry-on. They will be – State ID Birth Certificate or Passport Vaccination records (This is a new day, ports will want you vaxxed) Spending cash, wallet, credit cards Swimsuit Prescription meds Sunblock Bug spray for port days 1 Change of clothes Cell phone Charger Toiletries, toothpaste, toothbrush, deodorant

These go in the carry-on because in case your checked baggage is lost, you will be able to get by and enjoy your cruise anyway until you get to port, where you can purchase some more clothing.

I do not recommend any kind of heat element, like a hair straightener, as those are often confiscated by the cruise lines as fire hazards. Just let your hair go, you’re on vacation anyway!

Such great recommendations!

We just went on a cruise last year, and I would add Pepto Bismol or some type of upset tummy medicine. One of my kids ate something that didn’t agree with him and the onboard shop didn’t have anything to help.

Such a great idea, thanks!

glow sticks works really well in bathroom. If you get up in middle of night you don’t have bright light.

That’s such a great idea!

I have found it’s a time saver to take a simple bow, etc with sticky back to place on cabin door. Easy to find your cabin.

Such a great idea! Thanks for sharing!

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Ultimate Cruise Packing List – Printable Checklist Included!

Lucky you! You’re off on a cruise. You’ve got your trip booked and now you need to put together the ultimate cruise packing list before you set sail. If you’re wondering what to pack for a cruise, look no further. Our cruise checklist with help you decide what to wear on a cruise as well as other cruise essentials you’ll need to bring onboard. In addition to knowing what to take on a cruise, you’ll also need to know how to dress, how to pack and what little extras are important to bring.

Making a list of what to bring on a cruise is essential. Download my printable cruise packing list! You’ll find it further down in the post. This post focuses primarily on what to pack for a Caribbean cruise but the cruise check list is customisable for any type of cruise you’re headed on. For other location-specific cruise ship packing lists see these posts:

• If you’re looking for advice on what to pack for an Alaskan cruise, read my Alaska cruise packing list  post.
• If you’re looking for advice on what to pack for a Mediterranean cruise, read my European cruise packing list post .

What to Wear on Cruise Vacations

Wondering how to dress on a cruise? Knowing what to wear on a cruise ship isn’t easy if you haven’t been. When I think about Caribbean cruise clothes, I think of bright, light and airy resort wear. Picking your clothes for a cruise is actually pretty easy. Break it down and think about the tips of activities you’ll be doing on board though and it’s actually pretty easy to work out how to dress for a cruise.

Excursion outfits

This can be anything from workout gear for active excursions, resort wear for city excursions & shopping or beachwear. It depends on what you plan to do when you’re in port.

Around the ship

Think of your cruise wear clothing as resort wear. Around the pool desk is pretty casual. Dining in the buffet for breakfast, lunch or dinner is also casual. Shorts are acceptable but not swimwear.

Non-formal dining nights

In the dining room on regular nights, dress as you would going out to dinner or drinks with friends. I’ve heard it referred to as “country club casual” . People tend to dress nicely.  Men wear collared shirts and sometimes a sports coat. Women wear sundresses or pants and a nice shirt or tunic. Jeans are acceptable in the dining room so long as they are nice jeans with no tears.Children can wear shorts & t-shirts in the dining room.

Formal night on cruise

On a 7 day cruise there are usually two formal dining nights. Cruise formal wear isn’t as strict as it used to be. You will see a few tables dressed to the nines in evening gowns and a tux but most passengers will go for nice evening wear. Cocktail dresses or a jumpsuit is perfect formal cruise wear for ladies. Men usually wear a dark suit & tie but if you don’t have it then a dark shirt is fine. Boys should wear pants & a shirt. Girls should wear a party dress. If you don’t want to bring fancy clothing, you really don’t have to as there is also buffet dining, speciality restaurants and room service.

Need more inspiration on what clothes to wear on a cruise?

• For some specific ideas on cruise attire, read my post on 12 cruise outfits you’ll love to wear  where I show how to turn seven key items of clothing into 12 outfits for a cruise.
• For some specific ideas on styles of dresses that work for a cruise, read my post on cruise dresses.
• For some specific ideas on cruise formal wear, read my post on what to wear on cruise formal night

Packing List for Cruise

Planning what to pack for cruise needs quite a bit of thought. I would encourage you to get organised now and print out my checklist for cruise packing below. Go through your own wardrobe and look at the clothing you already have and decide what would make good cruise apparel. Then fill in the gaps by buying a few extra items. It’s always nice to have something new to wear for a vacation!

My biggest tip for deciding what to pack for a 7 day cruise is to think of outfits you can create and selecting pieces of clothing that work with one another . My Caribbean cruise packing list consists of a mixture of excursion outfits, clothes for cruise ship wear, resort casual pieces for non-formal evenings and cocktail dresses for formal wear for cruise dinners.

This is a 7 day cruise packing list. For longer cruises, you will be able to do laundry on board. For shorter cruises, just omit a few outfits to suit the length of your trip.

Clothes for Cruise Travel

• 3 Vest tops – For wearing under tunics and kimonos
• 3 T-Shirts – Striped t-shirts make great cruise wear!
• 2-3 Tops – Something like this red chiffon vest top is ideal.
• White or black Bermuda shorts (or capri pants if you don’t feel comfortable in shorts)
• Denim shorts
• Short romper (or extra pair of shorts or capris if you don’t feel comfortable in a romper)
• White jeans – Stretchy pull on ones like this are ideal! You could also go for light linen pants or palazzo pants. I have a full list of the different types of pants for travel in this post .
• 2 Sundresses – One black and one coloured or print
• Colourful maxi dress
• Black jumpsuit – This one is very affordable and comes in a tonne of colours if black isn’t your thing. If you don’t want to do a jumpsuit, add in a second maxi dress/
• 1-2 Cocktail dresses – This one is absolutely gorgeous for plus size women! . A nice black or navy dress is also a good option.
• 2 Set of workout clothes – Either for the gym or active excursions if planned
• Cardigan – For cool evenings or to wear on the plane
• 8 Pair of underwear – Enough for a 7 day cruise
• 3 bras – One nude everyday bra, one black evening bra and one white sports bra

Your swimwear is one of the most important things to take on a cruise! After all, you will be spending a lot of time in the pool or at the beach. You don’t need to bring a beach towel as they are provided onboard on the pool deck or when you’re leaving for excursions in port.

• 2 Bathing suits – I love the Miraclesuit which is an amazing slimming bathing suit!
• 2 Beach cover ups – You can use the tunic and kimono as part of the clothing listed above or have dedicated beach/pool coverups
• Aqua booties (if you’re planning any water sport excursions that require them)

Accessories

• 2 Pairs of sunglasses – 1 nice pair and 1 cheap pair  for wearing in the pool & sea
• Colorful print scarf
• Pashmina scarf for cooler evenings and wearing on the plane
• 2 statement necklaces
• Tote for every day use
• 2 Clutch purses for evening use
• Sneakers – Sketchers Go Walk sneakers are fantastic for travel!
• Sandals – Aerosoles are my preferred style of sandals for travel. Check out these ones or these ones.
• Wedge sandals – Aerosoles also make incredibly comfortable wedge sandals that look fantastic. Check out these ones .
• Heels – Pick one pair of black or nude strappy heels that work for cocktail dresses or jumpsuits.

Other Things to Bring on a Cruise

Of course clothes are not the only things you need for a cruise! What to bring on cruise depends a little on personal preference, especially in terms of electronics.

Electronics

Electronics may come under the list of things to pack on a cruise vacation…. or they may not! A cruise is an excellent “digital detox” vacation as internet is very slow and expensive on board. You’ll pay about $200 for a week long cruise if you want internet in your cabin. You won’t need a travel hair dryer as they are a provided on board.

• JOTO waterproof iPhone case – I love mine so much! For using my phone at the beach or pool and keeping it safe from sand & water and for taking pictures and videos in the water.
• Hair straightener or curling tongs – You can get travel-sized ones like this and this . I have a whole post dedicated to finding the best flat iron for travel if you’re interested!
• Smartphone (just be wary of additional roaming charges when you are abroad)
• All chargers for your devices
• Portable battery pack for charging your items on excursions
• Walkie talkies – A read just suggested these to me as a great tool when traveling with older kids so you can keep in touch without them needing to make expensive cellphone calls. Great idea!

While you will get some basic toiletries provided in your cabin, it’s often not adequate quality or quantity for me personally so I like to bring my own. I recommend decanting your own shampoo and conditioner into travel bottles. These squeezey silicone ones are the best. Use a hanging toiletries bag for your bathroom essentials. You can organise your toiletries further by using small Ziploc bags for things like makeup, hair accessories and first aid items. Put your sunscreen and bug spray in a large Ziploc bag so you can pop it into your tote when you head off on excursions.

• Moisturiser
• Toothpaste (travel size)
• Toothbrush (travel size)
• Conditioner
• Hairbrush (travel size)
• Hair ties and bobby pins
• Make up remover – Make up remover wipes are great for travel.
• Razor and shaving foam (travel size)
• Sunscreen – This is my absolute favorite sunscreen. It smells amazing!
• Aftersun lotion in case of sunburn
• Bug spray (travel size)
• Antacids – In case you overindulge at the buffet!
• Any medication you require
• Hand sanitizer (travel size)

Seasickness Prevention

A couple of things to pack for a cruise that I would definitely recommend for everyone is seasickness prevention supplies. You never know how your body is going to react to the motion of the ship so it pays to prepare in advance. Throw all these little items into a Ziploc bag together so you can put your hands on them if you need them. Once you return home, keep them bagged up for your next cruise!

A little seasickness prevention pack makes a nice gift for someone you’re cruising with also!

• Essential oil blend to calm motion sickness
• Ginger candy
• Lysol disinfecting wipes – Give your cabin surfaces a good wipe down when you first arrive. Although they are cleaned thoroughly it always pays to disinfect your room to prevent against cruise bugs like norovirus.

Pop all your documents in a travel document wallet to keep them organised. A money belt is also a good idea for cruise excursions when you don’t want to bring your wallet along.

• Driver’s licence
• Wallet – Bring some cash in US dollars as this can be used at most cruise ports
• Credit card & debit card – Only take one out at any time so that if you lose your wallet you still have access to funds
• Cruise booking print outs
• Excursion booking print outs
• Highlighter pen – For highlighting activities you want to do on your daily schedule

Cruise Packing List for Men

My cruise packing list for men is fairly similar to the women’s list above. All the extras can be shared between travel partners so I’ll just cover the list of what to wear on a cruise for men. Men’s cruise wear is relatively straight forward. Cruise attire for men means short sleeved shirts or t-shirts with shorts during the day. Evening cruise clothes for men on non-formal nights is slacks, long sleeved shirts and maybe a sports coat. Formal cruise attire men is a dark suit, shirt and tie with dress shoes or a tux if you’re going full formal. Tuxes can be rented on board.

What to Wear on a Cruise Men

• 2 Pair of shorts
• 3 Short-sleeved shirts – Something like this shirt is fun for cruising!
• 5 T-shirts or polo shirts
• 2 Set of workout wear
• 3 Long-sleeved shirts
• 2 Pair of chinos or khakis
• Sport coat or blazer
• Dark suit (if you are dressing up for formal night)
• Sweater – For cool evenings or to wear on the plane
• 8 Pairs of underwear

Shoes & Accessories

• Leather sandals or  Boat shoes
• Sport sandals
• Dress shoes
• 5-7 pairs of socks – A mix of dress or sport depending on your outfits
• Belt (1-2 to match your outfits or a reversible one )
• Baseball cap
• 2 Pair of sunglasses – One nice pair and one cheap pair  for swimming
• 2 Sets of swimming trunks
• UV rash vest
• Aqua booties (if you’re planning excursions that require them)

Cruise Packing List for Kids

As a mom it’s up to me to decide what to pack for kids on a cruise. Thankfully the rules for dress codes and cruise wear for kids is a little more relaxed. You know your kids best so feel free to adjust my family cruise packing list.

What to Pack for a Cruise for Kids

• 5-7 T-shirts
• 3 Sundresses for girls
• Party dress for formal nights
• Shirt for boys on formal nights
• Sweatshirt or caridgan – For cool evenings or to wear on the plane
• 10 Underwear
• Diapers & wipes (if necessary)
• 4-5 Pairs of socks
• 2 Sets of sleepwear
• 2 Swimsuits – UV swimwear is best for kids as it means less area to apply sunscreen
• Swim diapers (if necessary) – Children must be potty-trained to swim in pools onboard the ship but you may need a few swim diapers for excursions.
• Dress shoes – Only if you’re getting really dressed up for formal dining as a family or having family portraits taken

What to Bring on a Cruise with Kids

You won’t need to bring your own portacrib for babies & toddlers. They are provided by the ship.

• Coloring book & crayons
• Small selection of toys – Cars, dolls etc for playing in cabin
• iPad with games
• Kids’d headphones
• Any special comfort items they need like blankets or lovies
• Lightweight stroller (if necessary)

How to Pack for a Cruise

Here’s what luggage I recommend for a cruise:

Suitcase – Don’t bring a huge suitcase. When you’re packing for cruise trips, remember that your stateroom will be quite small. If you follow my packing list for a cruise below you won’t overpack. A 25″ suitcase should be adequate. This one from Delsey is great! . If you’re sharing a suitcase with your travel partner, then a 29″ suitcase like this will also work. There is limited storage in stateroom closets for multiple large suitcases so it’s a good idea to share one per family.

For further tips on packing for a cruise, check out my post 10 Cruise Packing Tips.

Cruise Packing Checklist to Download

All of the items from my cruise list above have been collated into an easy cruise packing list pdf that you can download and print. As you lay out items for your vacation, check them off the cruise packing checklist pdf so you can organise yourself ahead of time.

>>> Download here: What to Pack for a Cruise Checklist PDF

Questions & Comments on What to Pack on Cruise Ships

I hope you’ve found my cruise checklist, packing advice and ideas of things to wear on a cruise helpful. Good luck with your packing for a Caribbean cruise!

What do you wear on a cruise? I’ve love to know. I’d love to know what you think are the must-have items to take on a cruise.

Join Our Facebook Group to Chat More About Cruise Packing Tips

If you want to ask a specific question, chat to other cruisers about what to pack for your cruise or share your own cruise packing advice then join our Facebook group on Cruise Packing Tips!  We would love to help you work out exactly what to pack or hear your own ideas about what gear you use on your cruise. Join us for some fun and friendly discussions.

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Wow, such thorough info! Nice job.

I love how detailed you were and also how you have the images of the outfits. Will definitely be coming back to this post when we take a cruise!

This is a FANTASTIC list. Cruises seem to be the HARDEST thing for me to pack for this printable will be totally helpful. Pinned for later.

Awesome post!! Getting ready for our multi-gen cruise and needed to send our first time cruising family a good post. Yours was perfect friend 🙂

Oh awesome! Glad I could help. Where are you cruising next??

Hello there! I wanted to add something we have found absolutely necessary for families with kids…..walkie talkies!

We use these to keep in touch with our kids since we do not want to get a huge phone bill at the end. The kids love them because they can also switch the channel and talk with each other! And best of all, no searching the ship for our kids and we can all get together when we need to!

Hope this helps! Marisela

That is an EXCELLENT idea Marisela! Our kids are little still but I can totally see that being useful for older kids or if traveling with an extended family group or friends. I love it! Will add it to the post. 🙂

Ooo forgot to say AWESOME JOB on the post! I’ve been on a ton of cruises but my parents who have never been wanted a checklist and thought before I started to reinvent the wheel I’d search for one and found several but yours was by far the best list out there! Thanks!

Thank you so much for the compliment! I love solving problems for people and what to pack seems like such a common one. Glad I could help your parents! Where are they cruising?

WOW! You are amazing! I am a 76 year old grandmother. I have been on a few cruises and always over packed. My daughter is taking me on a first time 10 day western mediterranean cruise, I LOVE your beautiful outfit ideas/packing list etc. and I am having fun using them all. You are a God Send. Thank you very much.

Oh thank you so much Judy! That is super kind of you to say. I love hearing that what I put out there online has helped someone get read for their trip.

You can join our cruise packing group on Facebook too if you want to ask some questions! Here is the link – https://www.facebook.com/groups/cruisepackingtips/

This information is great but when I click to print, the page is “not found”. Any suggestions?

I’ve fixed the link. You can find it here – https://flashpackerfamily.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/06/The-Ultimate-Cruise-Packing-Checklist-PDF.pdf

This is fabulous! The best site I have been to for Cruise tips! My husband and I are planning our first cruise ever in March of 2018. We are very excited and this post has helped A LOT!! Thank you 🙂

That’s awesome to hear Allie! Where are you cruising to?

Let me know if you have any questions. You can join our cruise packing group on Facebook here if you’d like to chat more about your cruise with me and other travelers – https://www.facebook.com/groups/cruisepackingtips/

LOVE your post! Going on my first cruise, southern carrebean for 10 days. So excited, but I think I have over packed big time. I have a carryon for toiletries, jewelry and change of cloths. I am on oxygen so I needed to pack in my 21 in. Suit Case my concentrator with accessories for overnight use. Plus I have my crossover purse as well as my crossover portable oxygen concentrator. I have 5 shorts with 5 tops, 2 capri with 4 tops, 2 short sundresses, 3 bathing suits with 3 coverups, 1 black jumpsuit, 1 long blue and white dress. 1 sequin black shawl and a white ballerio, beige wideleg dress slacks with 1 topa lightweight sweater shawl. I also have white skinny jeans with 2 tops and a pair of skinny blue jeans with 1 top. Have white blue, black soft sandals as well as flip flops, sneakers and black dress shoes and beige dress sandles. I need help!!

Thank you for taking the time to give such a detailed list! I am having trouble downloading the pdf – it says it can’t find the server?

pdf is no longer available. Can you help?

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The Ultimate Cruise Vacation Packing Checklist & Best Tips [Printable]

Amar Hussain

Senior Content Contributor

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Getting Started

Travel admin, packing your luggage, airline considerations, apps for packing, apps for cruise vacation travel, how to prepare your house before you leave, final thoughts.

We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

Whether you are new to the cruising life or a regular seafarer, taking a vacation onboard a luxury liner is an affordable and fun way to see the world and make new friends along the way. Seasoned cruisers and rookies alike get to enjoy action-packed days and fun-filled nights on a vacation that is as high energy or laid back as you want it to be.

With so much to see and do, packing for your cruise vacation can be a bit of a nightmare. Make sure you have everything you need to dress for dinner or dive in the pool by downloading our cruise vacation packing list before you go.

📋 Click Here to View Our Printable Cruise Packing List 📋

Cruise Packing Tips and Advice

Cruise vacations offer lots of different activities and destinations. Follow these top tips to ensure that you are always dressed for the occasion.

Check the Weather

Out on the ocean waves, it can get pretty chilly at night, no matter how tropical it may feel during the day. Cruise ships offer lots of indoor entertainment to suit long days at sea, inclement weather, and occasional rain, but you will need to check the weather before you to leave to see how many layers you need to pack.

Weather is an important factor if you’re going on a cruise to Alaska . You’ll need to include things like a jacket, boots, and a hat in your suitcase to be prepared.

How Many Nights Are You Away?

A 7-, 10- or 14-day cruise should require several outfit changes. Unlike similar vacations on land, you will not always have access to laundry facilities so you will need to make sure you have enough clothing to see you through.

Because you can’t take your entire wardrobe with you on your cruise vacation, it is vital that you understand how to mix and match key items to make them work for you.

Bottom Line: As a rough guide, for a 7-night cruise you will need to bring enough clothing for at least 4 formal or semi-formal nights, a couple of casual evenings, pool and loungewear, and practical clothing for excursions on dry land.

Are There Any Special Occasions or Themed Nights?

Cruise ships may assign daily dress codes that take effect in public rooms and restaurants from 6 p.m. onward. You may be expected to dress up for dinner , so be sure to pack lightweight, interchangeable items of formal attire and shoes to go with them.

If you want to bring your own costumes for themed nights or fancy dress — go ahead! Cruises are all about having fun, so bring as many as you can pack if that’s your thing.

Make a Packing List Early

Buying, sorting, and packing for your cruise vacation is not just a necessity — it is also an exciting part of the cruise vacation experience. Start shopping and planning as early as possible to ensure that you have everything packed and ready by the time you leave.

Choose the Right Luggage

Most cruise line companies will allow you to bring up to 2 full-size suitcases onboard, although there may be restrictions on weight. When thinking about the right luggage for your cruise vacation, think of it more like staying at an upscale hotel, rather than cramming your belongings in a carry-on .

Your cases should be large enough to carry everything you need, but not so big or heavy as to be difficult to lug through the cruise terminal. You will also have a limited amount of space in your cabin, so don’t go mad with oversized cases as you will have nowhere to put them. Stick with hard-sided luggage, too, as it will protect your belongings better.

Purchase Travel-Sized Items

The “3-1-1” rule does not apply to cruise ships. You can bring full-sized bottles if you want to, but most cruise liners will supply shampoo and shower gel in the cabins on your arrival. Save space for other items by bringing travel-sized versions of your toiletries.

Hot Tip: Check out these ways to book a cruise using points and miles .

What Electronics Should I Take?

Cruise ship vacations are designed to keep you entertained every minute of the day. From sunbathing on deck to fitness classes, live music, and midnight buffets, there is never a dull moment out on the ocean.

Wi-Fi can also be limited, and you may have to pay extra for access to it. But, if you do want to take electronics onboard with you, limit them to:

A digital camera — You will want to capture epic images of life at sea, as well as the many destinations you will visit along the way. Read our guide to buying a digital camera for travel if you don’t have one already.

An e-reader — If you like to read when sunbathing or winding down at night, download a few e-books before you go for your e-reader .

Your laptop — Catching up on your emails while sipping a coffee in the lounge is a wonderful way to work if you really have to. Laptops are welcome onboard, but they are your responsibility to keep safe for the duration. Don’t forget travel insurance to keep you covered.

Your cell phone — Always worth taking. Call home and tell them what a wonderful time you are having!

Hairdryers and styling appliances — Cruise ships will usually provide a hairdryer in your cabin, and there is no rule against bringing your straightening irons or electric curlers.

You will not usually be able to bring your travel iron onboard, but most ships have laundry services of some kind where you can pay to have your clothes laundered for you.

Hot Tip: Most cruise liners will have U.K., U.S., and European plug sockets in the cabins, so you may not need to bring a travel adapter . However, you should confirm what your particular ship offers before you go.

Flying to your cruise terminal, boarding the ship, and disembarking at various ports of call will all require tickets, passports, and other paperwork. You will need to have everything with you, either electronically or in paper format, otherwise, your cruise vacation will be a total non-starter.

You will, at the very least, need to have:

Your Passport

Passports are not technically required if you are a U.S. citizen embarking on a “closed-loop” cruise route. This means that you depart from and return to the same U.S. port, after visiting at least 1 foreign port of call. If you are leaving from and returning to separate ports, you will need your passport. 

While an Enhanced Driving License may suffice for I.D. on a closed-loop route, it is probably best to take your passport with you just in case, and all passengers should be sure that it is valid for at least 6 months after your return date.

Your Tickets and Travel Documents

Your tickets will usually be in the form of electronic documents that are either downloaded or sent to you by email. These will also include useful information such as the departure date, itinerary, and airline details if you are flying into shore. You may also want to print a hard copy of all of the above and keep them in your bag, just in case.

Usually, cruise vacations are all-inclusive, and you shouldn’t have to pay for food, drink, and entertainment. You may, however, need to pay for specific activities and excursions while onboard and on dry land, and you will also need to tip the staff while onboard (if not pre-paid).

Keep the majority of your money (and even your cards) in the safe in your cabin closet. Most cruise staff and fellow passengers would never dream of helping themselves to your money, but better to be safe than sorry.

Your Personal Details

In case of an accident or illness, you should keep a copy of your personal details somewhere easy to find . Print basic details like your name, address, next of kin, and any relevant health issues on a credit card-size laminate, and tuck it in your purse or travel wallet .

Hot Tip: Make sure you’re getting the most bang for your buck! Check out our list of the best websites to book cruises at the cheapest prices .

Prepare for the perfect cruise vacation by packing everything you need, and not a single item more.

Get Everything Together and Lay It Out

The key to always looking awesome on a cruise vacation is making sure you bring the right items for every occasion. Before you start to pack, lay out everything that you want to pack out in front of you . This way, you can see how much room you are going to need in your suitcase (or even how many cases you will need), and what, if anything, you are missing.

Pick Capsule Items

With a variety of dress codes and themed events taking place throughout your cruise vacation, it is essential that you can find the right mix of outfits for every occasion. A capsule wardrobe will help you to mix and match your formal wear to look gorgeous every evening, as well as dressing down to lounge and look great around the pool.

A sample capsule wardrobe for a cruise vacation could include:

• 3-5 bathing suits
• Flip flops for the pool or beach
• Sneakers for the gym
• 3 pairs of shorts
• 3 casual shirts
• 3 beach cover-ups
• Enough socks and underwear for a clean pair every day
• 1 sweatshirt/sweater as nights can be chilly on deck
• Dress or smart trousers
• A formal skirt
• 2 formal tops
• A formal jacket
• A pair of smart shoes
• Make-up, jewelry, and accessories to dress up evening wear

Remove Anything Unnecessary

If you are unsure of what not to take, have a look at the website for the cruise ship you are about to travel out on or read passenger reviews. For example, if it turns out that there isn’t a gym or track onboard, you can take out your sportswear as you will have no use for it.

Your luggage allowance may be more than you would usually enjoy on an airplane, but that doesn’t mean you need to take your entire wardrobe with you.

Consider Washing Clothes on the Road

Some cruise liners have laundry facilities that you can use yourself for a small fee. Be aware though, that these are in the minority and most will have serviced laundries that will charge to wash and iron your clothing.

You may get away with washing your small items in the sink, but drying facilities will be scant if you have an inside cabin.

Fold, Interfold, Bundle, or Roll?

Once you have your definitive list of what to take with you, and you have purchased the perfect set of luggage, it’s time to get packing. Want to arrive crease-free and ready to roll? Try these different packing techniques for your next cruise vacation:

Folding — Folding your clothes is the most traditional way to pack your luggage. Freshly laundered and nicely folded items should be packed in the order that you want to unpack them when you reach your cabin. If you do it well, your items should be pretty crease-free on arrival.

Interfolding — By cleverly layering clothes on top of each other in a top-to-bottom, bottom-to-top format, you will be able to unpack well-organized outfits, that arrive wrinkle-free and ready to roll.

Bundling — By tightly folding or wrapping your clothing around your bulkiest pieces, like a pair of sneakers or your toiletry bag , you can save much-needed space and decrease the risk of wrinkles.

Rolling — Rolling your clothes is a great way to get casual items neatly packed without wrinkles. This is a space-saving technique used by many experienced travelers, but be wary of rolling your formal items — stick with a hanging garment bag instead.

Use Packing Cubes

Packing cubes provide useful zippered compartments that can be removed from your suitcase to help keep your items well organized on the move. Keep your swimwear, shoes, underwear, and all manner of other items all in 1 place with these smart little portable compartments.

The cubes stack neatly meaning you never waste any space in your suitcase, and they can even help compress your belongings so you can squeeze even more in.

Secure Your Liquids

If you are planning on decanting your full-sized products into smaller, travel-sized containers, be sure that they are leakproof. While the “3-1-1” rule does not apply to cruise ships, you may still need travel-sized bottles for your onward journey, or you may prefer to use them.

Stuff Your Shoes

Stuffing your shoes with socks or underwear helps them to keep their shape, as well as helping to save space in your suitcase.

Take Sticky Notes

This is not a joke and is a great secret weapon for making your cruise life a bit easier. Made a new friend in cabin 1005 and want to meet them for drinks later? Leave a sticky note on their door. Sometimes the simplest methods of communication are best.

Other niche items you may not have thought of are:

• A lanyard to keep your room key easily accessible
• A corkscrew because there’s never one around when you need one
• A small portable fan for your cabin
• An alarm clock with night light for your cabin

Hot Tip: Get started on the right foot — use a great travel rewards credit card to book your cruise so you’ll earn points or miles with each sailing!

Check the Airline Baggage Policy

Different airlines have differing types of restrictions, but there are some general rules that you need to keep in mind when traveling to the port to take your cruise:

Cabin Luggage

Every airline has carry-on allowances that restrict the size and amount of luggage that each passenger can bring onboard. If your carry-on luggage is too large, it will be placed in the hold and also cost you extra.

Cases and carry bags must be no bigger than 22 x 14 x 9 inches to fit in the overhead locker and are limited to 1 carry bag or case per passenger. Passengers may also carry 1 small purse or shoulder bag but this depends on the airline. There is not usually a restriction on weight.

Bottom Line: Always check with your airline about carry-on luggage restrictions so that you don’t get caught out at the airport.

Checked Luggage

Most airlines will allow for 1 checked item per passenger for international flights for free but may charge for checked items on domestic flights. Your suitcase should not have a total dimension of more than 62 inches. That’s the total measurement of the length, height, and width.

Your checked luggage should not exceed 50 pounds in weight , and you may be charged fees if it weighs more. Each airline will have different restrictions so please check with yours first before you travel.

Other items such as strollers , sports equipment, wheelchairs, musical instruments, and other medical items can also be checked, but you should speak to the airline first.

Follow the 3-1-1 Rule for Carry-On

The TSA has strict rules for anyone carrying liquids onboard any domestic or international flights. Each passenger may carry liquids, gels, and aerosols in travel-size containers that are 3.4 ounces, and they must be carried in a clear plastic bag.

The 3-1-1 rule essentially means:

• 3.4-ounce bottles or less
• 1 quart-sized, clear, plastic, zip-top bag
• 1 bag per passenger

Never Check Essentials

You may be hoping that you can stash your currency, medication, and money in the shiny hardshell suitcase that you have purchased especially for your cruise vacation, but honestly — don’t!

Always keep your essential personal belongings in your carry-on bag; this way they will always be close at hand when you need them.

Pack Spare Clothes in a Carry-On in Case of Delays

Airline travel can lead to lost or delayed luggage from time to time. To prevent your arrival at the cruise terminal with nothing but your purse and passport, pack an emergency change of clothes in your carry-on.

Sometimes it’s useful to ask for a little extra help with getting organized. These packing apps can help to ensure you never leave a single item behind:

PackingPro offers sample lists that can be used to get you packing, or you can build and customize your own based on your clothing preferences and expected weather conditions. You can create lists for multiple travelers and share them via iTunes, Airdrop, or iCloud . You can even attach photos and add scheduled alerts to remind you exactly what to do and when to do it.

This useful little app is only available on iOS and costs $2.99.

While the free version is pretty basic, an upgrade to the paid version will give you a variety of useful additions to the list building element of the app. With gender-specific packing recommendations and expected weather conditions , this intuitive and easy to use app also lets you share your lists and will convert your list to a PDF for printing.

This app is available on iOS and Android, and the Premium edition costs $4.99.

Travel List App

With an easy to use interface, the Travel List App allows you to view your information in list or calendar format, and you can set reminders and alarms to pack specific items and tick them off when they are packed. Fully customizable lists can be synced via your iCloud account or shared on social media.

The app is only available on iOS and costs $1.99 to buy.

Create your own individual packing list for you and your family based on your destination, the duration of your cruise vacation, and the weather forecast. You can share your lists with fellow Packtor subscribers, and you can make duplicate lists and sync them on all of your other devices to ensure you never leave anything behind.

This app is available on both iOS and Android and is free to download, although in-app purchases are available.

Packing List Checklist

This easy to use app will help you to pick suggested items for your next cruise vacation, as well as creating your own customized categories. Use both the “To Do” and ‘To Pack” lists to help get organized , and set reminders and alarms to make sure you don’t forget anything. You can also sync your list with all of the other iOS devices you use before and during your cruise vacation.

The app is available on iOS only and is free to download.

Make the most of your next cruise vacation with these top traveling apps:

Cruise Ship Mate

As one of the most popular cruise apps available, Cruise Ship Mate has lots of fun features that will help you interact with your fellow passengers both on and off the ship . See the full roster of passengers embarking with you, check out deck plans and entertainment programs, or find things to do in your various ports of call. You can even view the deck cams in the run-up to your cruise vacation, and share a cruise countdown on social media.

The app is available on iOS and Android and is free to download.

As the most popular trip planner and flight tracker in the U.S. today, TripIt is much more than just another packing list app. You can save all of your electronic travel documents in 1 place, build your own itinerary, and send a comprehensive list of your travel plans to yourself and fellow travelers.

TripIt Pro also offers more advanced features, including interactive maps and real-time flight checkers.

The app is available on both iOS and Android. The basic edition is free, or you can upgrade to Pro for $49 per year.

Cruise Card Control

It can be easy to overspend while onboard and trying to live the luxury lifestyle regardless of your budget. This app is designed to help you budget and track your onboard spending and offers a straightforward way to monitor your outgoings with an easy to use expense tracker. You can create custom categories, enter costs along with pictures of receipts, and have a customized budget with helpful graphs to keep track of how you’re doing.

Available on iOS only, this app is $2.99 to download.

Deck Director

Taking deck maps to a new dimension, this app offers simple, step-by-step directions to any place or amenity on board the supported cruise ships . Not only is it a handy tool for anyone who gets lost easily, but it is also a useful app for passengers with limited mobility who need to be able to traverse the ship using elevators. You can also link up with fellow passengers using the real-time chat facility.

See the skies like never before with this stargazing app designed for cruisers. The night sky is brighter and more beautiful out at sea, and by simply tilting the device towards the sky, the intelligent GPS technology will track the position of the stars, planets, and moons in real-time , so that you can see what’s going on up above.

The app is free for both iOS and Android devices.

Before you head out off on your dream cruise vacation, be sure to take care of a few basic housekeeping chores at home:

Clean out the refrigerator — You don’t want to return home from your vacation to a stinky house and a kitchen full of rotting food, so clear out date-sensitive produce and give everything a quick wipe over before you leave.

Take out the trash — All of those items that you have just thrown out of the fridge need to be disposed of. Take them, and any other garbage bags out to the trash before you go.

Check the laundry — Nobody wants to return to the laundry that has sat wet in the washer for weeks on end. Prevent sour smells and even mold by checking your washer and dryer before you leave.

Program your thermostat — Save money and energy by re-programming your thermostat to only come on for an hour or so a day. That way, you can come home to a house that is the perfect temperature and also avoid any burst pipes if the weather is freezing.

Put your lights on timers — Deter burglars by setting your lights to come on using timers or smart devices. A little light every evening will make your home look occupied and therefore less attractive to would-be criminals. If you have a smart hub, you could even put your TV on for an hour or so at a time, too.

Ask a friend to check in — Have a friend or neighbor check in regularly to collect your mail. Doormats piled high is a sure sign of a vacant property, making it an attractive proposition to burglars. Have them collect it, and you can pick it up when you get back from your cruise vacation.

A cruise vacation is an experience unlike any other. With plenty to see and do, and tons of new people to meet along the way, many cruise vacationers find themselves returning year after year.

Make your next cruise vacation the best ever by getting your packing groove on nice and early. Create a carefully crafted packing list, and you really can’t go wrong. With apps to help you create and share your packing lists and to remind you what to buy and when to pack it, you can be better organized this time than ever before.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should i pack for my cruise.

You can download a printable cruise packing list here, but as a rough guide you will need to pack:

• Travel documents such as your passport, tickets, and boarding passes.
• Items for personal comfort such as a neck pillow, eye mask, and ear plugs.
• Electronics
• Medication and health products
• Clothing, shoes, and accessories

What can you not bring on a cruise?

Prohibited items will vary depend on the cruise company you are traveling with but here are some general guidelines of items you should not take on a cruise:

• Firearms and sharp objects
• Flammable objects and explosives
• Illegal drugs
• Coffee makers and hot plates
• Skateboards and scooters
• Self-defense items such as pepper spray

How much cash should I bring on a cruise?

The amount of cash you need on a cruise is less than you think. Cruise lines will have your room key tied to an account that you can pay off by card. The same usually applies for gratuity.

Cash will therefore only really be needed for days in port and the amount will depend on your spending habits and how many shore days you have.

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About Amar Hussain

Amar is an avid traveler and tester of products. He has spent the last 13 years traveling all 7 continents and has put the products to the test on each of them. He has contributed to publications including Forbes, the Huffington Post, and more.

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The BEST Cruise Packing List (And What Not To Pack)

Heading out on a cruise? This is the ultimate cruise packing list with a free printable cruise packing checklist.

Not only that, but you’ll learn some packing tips and 16 items you may not realize you need on your cruise packing list – plus why you need them. Some links are affiliate links that earn me a commission if you purchase through them.

Heading out for a Caribbean vacation instead? Make sure you check out my beach vacation packing list , too!

I love to cruise. I love to be on vacation in general, especially somewhere warm. Cruises, however, let me explore a variety of locations with minimal effort.

Plus, someone else cooks. Someone else cleans. Someone entertains my entire family.

That doesn’t mean it’s all sunshine and roses, however. Personal space tends to be less than what we’re used to. Some in my family suffer from seasickness.

And then there are some things that just make life easier on a cruise ship, many tips I’ve learned the hard way. Who doesn’t want a vacation to go as smoothly as possible?

What to pack for a cruise?

Like most vacations, people tend to overpack. That’s ok if you have the room, but cabin storage space on cruise ships tends to be far less than most vacation spots.

When you pack, realize that you’ll likely spend most of your time in a swimsuit if you’re on a Caribbean cruise vacation. You don’t need a new outfit every day.

You do want to be sure to pack at least two swimsuits, and for a 7 day cruise, I pack three swimsuits. You also want at least one coverup that works for you to grab a casual breakfast and lunch.

If you eat in the main dining room, you need slightly nicer clothing for the evening, but slacks and a collared shirt or a pantsuit or sundress works just fine most nights. Depending on the length of your cruise, you will have one more more formal nights that are dressier.

However, if you choose to do the buffet or its equivalent for dinner, shorts and a t-shirt are just fine there, too.

Make sure to check the dress code for your particular cruise. They will also tell you how many formal nights or theme nights you have, which helps you plan.

If you book any excursions, know if they require any special items, whether that’s long pants, comfortable walking shoes, water shoes, reef safe sunscreen, or something else entirely. Your booking confirmation always includes that information.

Investigate, too, what essentials your cruise cabin includes so you know whether you need to pack shampoo or can use theirs and whether you need a hair dryer, etc.

Needless to say, since I wear my “real” clothes for just a few hours – and generally immediately after I showered from the day by the pool or in the ocean – I wear them more than once. I may bring just three or four sundresses and two t-shirts and a couple pairs of shorts.

Use packing cubes to help fit everything into a smaller space – like a carry on in my case – or fewer suitcases. Once aboard, use the ironing boards they have or a wrinkle release spray as needed.

Packing just cruise essentials helps me not run out of space in the small closets and limited drawers.

Use the same strategy for your shoes. Think about packing in a color palette that lets you wear the same evening shoes rather than having to pack a different pair of shoes for each outfit.

This leaves me room for the other cool things to bring on a cruise like my over the door organizer and flameless candles. Read on to see why these are also cruise essentials I never skip!

What medications should I bring on a cruise?

When you go on a cruise vacation, it is hard to easily pick up what you forgot at home, and everything costs more aboard the ship and at your cruise destination while you’re in port. This includes medications.

While cruise ships do have doctors on board if you have a medical issue, they have somewhat limited “regular” hours, and they can be expensive. If you bring what you’re likely to need from home, that’s less stressful and cheaper.

Be sure you have seasickness remedies on hand. My husband always gets the prescription patches that work fantastically, but we also keep ginger gum and Dramamine on hand just in case.

Obviously, you need to pack your prescription medications. Be sure to keep them in their original prescription bottles in case there are ever any questions. Pack extra medication and not just for the number of days you’ll be gone to ensure nothing prevents you from getting home on time.

If you plan to drink alcohol, bring along hangover remedies . And because we often eat more food and richer food than we do at home, bring along heartburn medication and Pepto, etc.

Make sure to have pain relievers, aloe in case of sunburn, and after bite in case the bugs in port like you.

If you’re truly reliant upon them, pack extra prescription glasses and copies of prescriptions just in case something happens.

Download the free printable cruise packing list

Download this cruise packing list and print it out to check off the items to ensure you have what you need for your trip and don’t forget any critical items! This includes standard vacation items plus the cruise must haves.

Click on the image or download the free printable here .

Packing strategies for embarkation day

When you first board the ship, you often do not have access to your cabin immediately. You check your luggage (including your airplane carryon bags) with porters and keep just your personal items.

Note: make sure you tip the porters!

For me, I keep a lightweight backpack with me that contains my essentials: my laptop and tablet, passports, boarding passes, good jewelry, medications, and swimsuits (especially when we’re coming from cold weather to warm weather).

If there is something I absolutely cannot be without, I keep it in my backpack the same way I do when I fly. However, I do not want to wheel around a carry on bag aboard ship, dodging crowds of people trying to figure out where they want to go, so I minimize what I keep with me.

My luggage gets delivered straight to my cabin, and I have always been lucky enough to have it before I change for dinner the first night.

Snafus do happen, but they are rare and thankfully generally get straightened out pretty quickly. This is why it’s critical to have those cabin tags printed and why I love the plastic luggage tags that protect them!

What NOT to pack for a cruise

Cruise ships often have a list of items you cannot bring aboard. All your luggage goes through screening prior to boarding, and they will remove anything forbidden and hold it for you until the end of the cruise.

The exception to that rule? If you bring illegal drugs, flammable liquids, explosives, etc., you will not get them back. Some cruise lines will return alcohol to you, but many will not.

The alcohol policy also varies by cruise line, so be sure to read it carefully. Most let you bring two bottles of wine or champagne per person, but anything you buy in a duty free store or in port, they hold until the day before you disembark.

So what can’t you bring? Make sure to check your cruise line for their list, but this includes examples of common items people try to bring but can’t.

• Irons or clothes steamers (ships will have irons available to you in their self serve laundry rooms)
• Extension cords (go for the multi outlet adapter I share below instead)
• Baby monitors
• Perishable items (sealed cookies, chips, etc are allowed)
• Candles (no flames on a boat! Flameless battery operated candles are allowed)
• Anything that generates heat or has an open flame (curling irons and hair straighteners are the exception)
• CBD oil and CBD products
• Sharp objects, including knives and scissors (personal grooming products are allowed, as are scissors with blades until 4 inches)
• Self defense items like pepper spray

This is not a complete prohibited list of items on cruise ships, so make sure to review the prohibitions for your cruise line if you have any questions.

Check out more cruising tips at the end of this article.

Cool things to bring on a cruise.

Digital Luggage Scale

While I am a firm believer that no one should pack anything they don't need, if I plan to check bags, I always bring this digital luggage scale with me.

I've had so many people beg me to use it and then rave about it and go home to buy their own!

The last thing anyone wants to do is arrive at the airport to discover that your suitcase is overweight and you have to pay extra or reshuffle everything in full view of the entire terminal. That is just no fun.

Instead, I use this digital luggage scale to figure out exactly how much my suitcases weigh before I head to the airport. We all buy souvenirs, and even when we don't, our suitcases are somehow magically heavier at the end of a trip. (No? Just me?)

This is absolutely worth the suitcase space. I've found that this one is accurate, and it goes up to 110 pounds, not that anyone should have a suitcase anywhere near that heavy!

Save yourself the headache - keep this in a pocket of your suitcase at all times so you never forget to pack it!

Cruise Luggage Tags

Any bag that you drop with a porter - and for me, that's everything except my backpack - needs to have your luggage tags attached. This is the paper you print out at home with your deck, cabin, and name that ensures your bag makes it to your cabin.

I used to pack a mini stapler so that I could staple the luggage tag closed around my suitcase handle just before I dropped them with the porter. If I put them on before that, I risked them coming off on the plane or taxi, and I didn't want my personal information (name and cabin number) shared with everyone.

Finally, I discovered these way cool luggage tags.

They're reusable, and incredibly secure. You just twist the braided steel wire together, and it stays.

I leave mine on my suitcase all the time, and pop the zip closure on the tag portion to add my luggage tag when I reach the cruise terminal.

When I'm not cruising, I use it as a suitcase tag to store my personal info for when I check a bag.

This set comes with 8 tags and easily holds your cruise luggage tags from pretty much any cruise line. I won't cruise without these now!

Once you actually get on board, pretty much the only thing you need is your cruise card. It's your room key, your method of payment, your access to all the things...

You see people wearing these everywhere, and the lanyards are super easy to wear for kids and pretty much for everyone.

You see people walking around with them all the time on cruise ships. I like the lanyards with the plastic holder for the card rather than the one that relies on a hole in your card.

Yes, you can buy this on your cruise ship. No surprise, they're far more expensive on a cruise ship than when you buy them before you go.

Cell Phone Case that Holds Your Room Key

Another alternative to hold your cabin key and a couple bucks or a photo ID is a phone case that has a secure compartment that slides open to hold them. I actually use this style case on my phone all the time, not just when I travel.

I can hold my phone up to my cabin door and unlock it with the key without having to search for anything. If I'm on an older ship with a lock that requires me to slide the card through a strip reader, it's easy to access.

The back slides open easily, and the case is strong, too. I drop my phone all the time, but – knock on wood – have never cracked a screen. Winning!

• iPhone case
• Samsung Galaxy cases

Travel Straws with Silicone Tips

So many cruise lines are doing away with straws altogether or replaced them with paper straws. Neither works well when you just want to enjoy your drink.

Instead, pick up these metal retractable straws. They have a silicone tip that feels good, so you aren't drinking straight from metal.

I love that they "grow" as big as you need them. In other words, you can have a shorter straw for a smaller glass and a taller one for a bigger drink.

Four different colors in each pack means you can assign each person a different color, which means you know you're using "your" straw. And the carabiner clip means it's easy to attach to your lanyard or bag or anything else without damaging it.

They also come in individual cases, so they stay clean when you aren't using them. And yes, they include bottle brushes so you can wash them on your cruise.

One note: make sure they're fully dry before you put them back in the case to be sure they stay perfect long term.

TSA Approved Liquid Travel Containers

We all know the TSA 311 rule, right? Liquids in your carry on have to be 3.4 ounces or less in a single quart size zip top bag, and only bag per passenger.

Even if you check your bags, make sure you have the critical items in your carry on – a change of clothes, travel documents, medicine, etc. That means my hair products, sunscreen, and the like, too.

Wellll some of those bottles are huge, so I found the perfect liquid travel bottles. I love these for so many reasons, and I’ve travel tested these, so I know they work.

Multiple colors, BPA free silicone, and no leaks? Sign me up for right around $10 any day.

I have used mine for years, and they are in great shape trip after trip.

Over the Door Organizer

Everyone always wants - ok needs - more room in their cabin. An over the door organizer is perfect to create some of that space for you.

It fits easily inside a suitcase, and you can use it for so much more than shoes. We store hairbrushes, hair dryers, toiletries, and more in it.

And yes, we store shoes in it, too, but they go towards the bottom. We used to just toss shoes onto the floor of the closet, but we inevitably spent five minutes digging through the pile to find the ones we wanted. This is way easier.

When you go down a cruise ship hallway, every cabin door looks the same. Whether you're tired or trying to find a friend's cabin, this can be a challenge.

That's PART of the reason so many people decorate their cabin doors. Be sure to read what is and isn't allowed for your cruise line, but have fun with it!

A magnetic dry erase board will stick to the door - yes cruise ship doors are metal. This lets you leave messages for friends or family letting them know where to meet you or what you're up to.

But have fun with your decorations, whether it's photos of your family, a themed set of decorations, or birthday or anniversary banners. It's a great way to let your personality shine.

Magnetic Hooks

So in addition to that cool metal door, cruise ships also have metal walls, which is perfect to help counteract that storage space issue I talked about earlier.

These magnetic hooks are just about the best thing ever.

Wet swimsuits? The drying line in the shower isn't big enough, so I hang them on hooks along the side of the room instead. (Not dripping wet because that's just rude!)

It's the perfect way to organize hats, to hang up the extra things that don't fit in a closet that don't "need" to be on a hangar, and more. Because they're magnetic, I can move them around to fit what I have to hang.

And once again this fun addition to a unique cruise packing list is neither expensive, nor does it take up much room in your suitcase.

Travel Hangers

Maybe it's to encourage people to pack less, but I find that the closet in the cruise ship rarely has as many hangars as I need. But hangars are a pain to pack, so I just deal with it.

Or I did until I discovered foldable hangars designed for travel. These fold up small so they don't take up much room in my suitcase, but they expand to hold shirts, pants, skirts, dresses, and more.

They are a lifesaver sometimes when I have clothes I don't want to have to fold!

Multi Outlet Adapter

In addition to not enough space, there are never enough outlets. Once upon a time when we traveled with a hairdryer and maybe a curling iron or electric razor, the limited outlets worked.

Today we have phones and tablets and more. For everyone traveling. Most cruise ships don't provide enough outlets for everything to charge overnight.

Thankfully, you can bring a multi-outlet adapter to fix the issue. I bring my Belkin with me on every trip.

This adapter is compact and includes multiple 3 prong plugs for your devices plus two USB slots. Its plug also swivels, so you can rotate it to best fit where you need to use it.

How much do people love this? My parents "borrowed" mine for their last cruise. And now my dad refuses to return  it, so I have to buy a new one. Thankfully they aren't too expensive!

LED Tea Light Candles

For real. Hear me out.

In your cabin, the light switch to the bathroom is outside the door. They don't put it in the bathroom, but in the main room.

Let's think about that. All you light sleepers are already with me.

Anyone who has to get up to go to the bathroom in the middle of the night needs a light, but what happens when you open the door to go in? Yup, that stream of really bright light goes right into the main room waking you up.

This has been a source of consternation in my family for years. My husband suggested I just use a sleep mask, but I don't sleep well with them. I suggested he not get up in the middle of the night, but that didn't go over well.

Instead, before we go to sleep, we turn on two battery operated tea lights in the bathroom. They reflect in the mirror and give off plenty of light for your night adjusted eyes to see what you need to while in the bathroom, but they don't wake up everyone else in the cabin.

I've used the tea lights I currently own for 19 nights at sea, and they have yet to burn out. When they do, this comes in a pack of twelve, and I always keep extras in my suitcase for that day.

Since we're talking about small quarters and cabin living, let's be honest for a quick second. The small bathroom doesn't come with a fan, and sometimes you need it to.

I feel like I don't need to say a whole lot here other than the fact that this spray works - as long as you remember to use it before you go. The 1.4 ounce size is carry-on allowed, so you can bring it even if you are a carry-on only traveler like me.

Do your family a favor - or make them do you a favor - and pack some Pou-Pourri for you next cruise. I told you this was a unique cruise packing list, and I bet you didn't think about this!

I cannot tell you what a miracle Sea Bands are for my family (and so many others I know). The first time we got on a ship, we realized my son gets incredibly seasick.

Thankfully, I just happened to tuck these into my suitcase, and combined with ginger gum, he went from green to absolutely fine in about five minutes. He wears them every cruise we go on now, and he's never had another issue.

If you or anyone you know is prone to seasickness, I cannot recommend these enough. In fact, I have an entire article filled with tips to help prevent and deal with seasickness . Go ahead - read it!

The Perfect Sun Hat

Whenever you spend time in the sun, you should wear a hat and protect your face and ears. I found my absolute favorite sun hat ever. I’ve been using it since 2014, and it’s still going strong in 2022.

I can pack this hat and not worry about crushing it. When it gets wet, it doesn’t lose its shape. And it comes in all sorts of colors.

And my favorite feature? It rolls up when I’m not wearing it, so it doesn’t take up a ton of room in my beach bag or my suitcase.

Oh, and did I mention it’s right around $20? When I thought I lost it this summer, I had another one in my cart on Amazon in a heartbeat!

I usually pack a ball cap, too, for outings where I want my hair out of my face but am not as concerned about the sun, but I never travel without this hat.

Towel Clips

If you've never been on a cruise, you may be surprised by the amount of wind you experience at sea, especially when you're sitting by the pool on the upper decks. Depending on where you sail, the wind can blow your towel off your chair when you stand up.

Even when you sit on your chair, the wind sometimes pushes the corner of the towel onto you. Me? I find that annoying.

But the biggest reason I pack towel clips ? Everyone on the cruise ship has the same towel because you use the ones they provide.

When I stand up and do something with my kids then try to head back to my chair, I don't always remember which one is mine. People get cranky when they think you're trying to steal their chair!

The towel clips help me easily identify which chair belongs to me, so I can spot it in a hurry. 

My only request? Don't be THAT person. The one who saves a chair with a towel early in the day then doesn't use it until much later. You'll find a chair when you need one, so let those of us who only take a chair when we plan to use it find one more easily.

A Locking Bag for Your Chair

When my mom travels with us, she's "Towel Grandma." She watches our chairs and our towels and our stuff while we go play. Unfortunately, she doesn't travel with us every trip.

And unfortunately, there are some people out there who don't always remember that what's yours isn't theirs. Having something stolen while on a cruise is a nightmare of mine.

Thankfully, you can purchase a bag to hold your critical items that you can lock to your chair , whether you're sitting at the pool or on a beach on an island. In fact, this is great for anytime you travel and need to leave belongings unsupervised like water parks or other beach vacations and more.

This particular version has a three digit combination lock you can attach over the arm of a lounge chair (or a closet rod), and it's big enough to hold a few phones, your keys, a wallet if you need, and the like. And yes, it will fit your Kindle but not a full size iPad.

Waterproof Phone Case

I refuse to ruin my phone in water, but I don’t want it stolen either. When on vacation, I tend to put my phone into a waterproof case and wear it around my neck when hanging in the pool, etc.

These cases come in a set of two and have never leaked. They’re easy to use, but always do the tissue test before you use it the first time on vacation.

They’re perfect for snorkeling. I love that you can take photos underwater with these for some great memories. Just remember to turn your phone on through the case before you go underwater.

Their vibrant colors and long cords make them easy to spot them in case they float away from you.

They’re another pretty inexpensive purchase – for two cases mind you – that just takes stress away from your vacation. Add this stat to your beach vacation packing list.

Full Face Snorkel Mask

When I cruise, I spend a lot of time in the ocean. Sometimes I'm on organized excursions (and you can read about some of my favorites at the end of this article) and some are hanging at the beach and playing in the ocean on my own.

Either way, this full face snorkel mask is so much better than the snorkel masks I used to use growing up and that I get when I rent them. I can see so much more easily, and it's a lot more comfortable than traditional snorkels.

The breathing part is designed to keep water out, which is a huge issue for my kids. They feel more comfortable and secure snorkeling with a full face mask, and I get why.

Microfiber Beach Towels

Yes, your cruise ship provides towels for your use. I'm fully aware of that, but I still always pack two microfiber beach towels whenever I go on a cruise.

When I do a shore excursion, it almost always involves water in some way, shape, or form. The towels from the cruise ship are bulky and take up a lot of room. If I have to carry them all day - especially at the end of the excursion when they're wet - I get cranky.

These microfiber towels are perfect. They're much more compact, and they dry much faster. That means they're much easier to take with me; I may even put the kids in charge of towel carrying!

Speaking of water activities, I travel nowhere without my dry bag . This one works as a backpack or messenger bag style - I have the 30L bag; the 20L also does this.

I feel like anytime I'm on a boat, whether it's a catamaran ride or snorkeling or SCUBA, my stuff gets wet. Sometimes it's from the ocean spray, but usually I put my bag down somewhere dry that is wet by the end of the excursion.

I don't want my stuff ruined or even damp. On the flip side, when I have wet stuff, I don't want it to leak and get me wet.

This bag accomplishes both purposes.

When I want to keep everything dry, I just pile it all in my dry bag and seal it. I can hold multiple towels - especially those microfiber ones I mentioned above! - and a change of clothes and my phone and wallet and more.

When it's time to change, I take out all my dry stuff and put it in a separate travel backpack. The wet stuff goes into the dry bag, and I stay dry. Magic!

Underwater Camera and Accessories

I cannot tell you how much I love my GoPro . Whenever I cruise, I spend ton of time in the water, whether it's on a beach at the cruise line's private island or snorkeling or SCUBA diving or any other water focused activity.

My phone camera just doesn't cut it, and it's amazing some of the footage I can capture with the new GoPros - so much better than my original one from many years ago.

If you take your GoPro, make sure you get a waterproof float stick to ensure it doesn't disappear in the water. And always get a high quality memory card with more room than you think you'll need!

If you think you'll get several accessories, pick up an accessories kit instead. They have most of what you'll want to purchase and cost you less in the end.

Lightweight Backpack

In general, backpacks aren't waterproof, but they're great to hold a whole bunch of "stuff" easily. In fact, we usually bring multiple backpacks so that we have at least a few for my family to use.

After we drop off our suitcases with the porters, we still want to keep some items with us - knowing that we generally can't access our cabins immediately. The day we board, we put swimsuits, sunscreen, meds (never leave your meds in your suitcase), wine if we bring a bottle, wallets, phones, and the like.

It's much easier to carry a lightweight backpack than it is to roll a suitcase around the ship until we can put things in our cabin safe or unpack.

When we do excursions, we put what we need in a backpack and carry that rather than purses, etc. It's much more comfortable, and things don't feel as heavy in a backpack compared to other carrying options.

I love this backpack because it is water resistant (little sprays, some rain) and because it is packable. It folds into a tiny bag so if you aren't using it at the time, it doesn't take up a ton of space.

Xlear Nasal Spray

The very last thing any of us wants is to test positive for covid either before you get on the cruise or before you make it home. I am not a medical professional or offering medical advice by any stretch, but I have heard so many good stories about Xclear nasal spray .

This is one that the manufacturer claims may alleviate congestion and prevent bacteria and other pollutants from sticking to nasal tissues. I have heard from multiple people who have used this to help clear remaining covid symptoms that allowed them to test negative faster.

And yes, testing negative faster meant they could take their planned trips and not have to cancel. For me, it's worth that peace of mind.

Vaccination Card Protector

To cruise, you need to show your vaccine card. The last thing you want is to lose it or damage it because they are often not easy to replace.

We all know (now) not to laminate it, but I love these clear card holders that are the perfect size for your card to keep it safe. Clear mean that you can show both sides easily without having to remove it from the case.

When I travel, I store mine in my passport holder where I know it's safe and I won't lose it. Having an assigned spot for all your travel documents is always a smart idea!

Passport Holder

Yes, I did mention a passport holder above. This is something I carry with me anytime I travel internationally, and especially when I cruise.

I love having this holder because it lets me easily access my passport when I need to show it to customers or immigration. And at the same time, it holds pretty much everything I need when I travel, so I don't need to pull out my wallet and my passport and potentially lose something.

Inside, I store my Global Entry card, among other thing. (You know you should get Global Entry or at least TSA Precheck, right? Here's why and how you apply for TSA precheck .)

This passport holder has space for a few credit cards, as well as cash. a slot I can stick my vaccine card in, and smaller pockets that hold an extra SIM card when I'm traveling to a specific country that needs one or memory cards for my camera or GoPro.

Packing Cubes

How do I pack a week's worth of everything into a carry on suitcase with room to spare? I use compression packing cubes.

I LOVE these things. They let me fit so much more into a smaller space with ease.

They're strong and sturdy yet lightweight and really increase the amount of clothing I can get into my suitcase.

Pro tip: I pack one cube that has exactly what I need when I arrive from my cold weather home to warm weather destination that I can easily pull out and change into. This way, I don't have to hunt and dig for what I need!

Insulated Water Bottle

Not only do I love using an insulated water bottle on a cruise ship or at a resort to stay hydrated while I’m out and about easily, but I use it as I travel, too.

Leave your bottle empty, then fill it at a drinking fountain as soon as you pass through security. Many airports now have water bottle stations, which is great.

Forget having to wait for a flight attendant to come through with the drink cart – you’re all set. This is one item I know often gets left off a beach vacation packing list, but you want it!

Pro tip: I use a wide mouth bottle so I can pour a drink into it from the bar and take it to the pool or ocean and not worry about it spilling. But no matter what, this keeps things hot. Or cold.

What do you need to bring as part of your unique cruise packing list?

More great cruising tips:.

• The BEST containers to hold liquids for carry-on
• How to stay in touch internationally
• Why you need TSA precheck
• Where to snorkel in St. Maarten
• SCUBA in Cozumel
• Stingray City and Turtle Farm excursion in Grand Cayman
• Do you know about Carnival’s  Chef’s Table experience ?
• Aruba pirate ship experience
• Grand Cayman shipwreck snorkeling
• Belize Great Barrier Reef snorkeling
• Belize Mayan Ruins experience
• Roatan: Pirates, Birds, and Monkeys
• Curacao: Ostrich Farm Excursion
• What to pack
• Barbados: Pirate Ship Adventure
• Explore the Secret River in Cozumel
• How to get your AOW SCUBA certification
• Check out all my other cruise tips

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Ultimate Cruise Packing List (Printable PDF)

If you’re planning an upcoming cruise vacation, you’re probably working on a list of things to pack for your trip. If so, we’ve got you covered. No matter which of the major cruise lines you are sailing, the cruise packing checklist below will help you get organized.

Whether you’re sailing on a short, three day cruise itinerary or you’re lucky enough to enjoy one of the longer cruises, the printable packing list below will help you prepare for your trip.

In the post below, we have organized cruise necessities into several categories. You’ll find packing checklists for your boarding day carry-on bag, cruise essentials (including outfit planning), beach must haves, tips for cabin organization, and baby necessities.

You’ll also find our free printable cruise packing list, which is available in PDF format for you to print for your trip. Before you print the checklist, we highly recommend reading through this whole post since we detail exactly why each item is needed. So, continue reading below for helpful cruise packing tips and your free printable cruise checklist!

(This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. Please see my disclosure policy at the bottom of this page for more details.)

Free Printable Cruise Packing List

If you’re looking for a checklist of items to pack for your cruise, we’ll provide our full list below. You’ll notice that some of the (bold) items might seem strange or unique for a trip. If you’re wondering what we use each item for, you can scroll through the article for a more detailed explanation as well as specific brands my family uses. For a quick view of our packing checklist, this is our family’s list of essentials:

• Collapsible Hamper
• Zip Lock Bags

Magnetic Hooks

• Hanging Closet Shelves
• Over Door Shoe Organizer
• Swimsuits (2-3 pp)
• Undergarments
• Socks/ Shoes

Dinner Outfits

Day outfits.

• Cardigan/ Light Jacket
• Workout Clothes
• Themed Night Clothes
• Antibacterial Wipes
• Prescription Medicine
• Driver’s License
• $1 Bills for Tipping
• Chargers for Electronics
• Sea Sickness Prevention
• Glasses/Contact Lenses
• Toothbrushes/ Toothpaste
• Floss/Mouthwash
• Shaving Cream/ Razors
• Hair Brush/ Products
• Face Moisturizer
• Perfume/ Cologne
• Hair Dryer/ Flat Iron
• Sunscreen/lip balm
• Collapsible Sand Pails
• Shovels/Toys
• Water Shoes
• Re-fillable Water Bottles

Power Strip

• Liquid Hand Soap
• Air Freshener
• Dish Soap/ Bottle Brush
• Pre-packaged Snacks
• Downy Wrinkle Release 

We like to print our list so that we can easily mark off each item as we pack. You can find our free printable cruise packing list here or by clicking on the image below. You’ll notice that the items are organized into sections in this printable cruise packing list. We also include a blank page for you to add your own items. The free printable comes in PDF format and is a great cruise planning tool.

If you would like additional resources for packing for your cruise vacation, we created a 30+ printable cruise planner for our Etsy shop. This digital planner includes planning tools like hotel comparisons, daily itinerary plans, trip budget worksheet, outfit planner, and more. You can find this cruise planner in our Etsy Shop at the image below.

For more information about our packing list items, including links to the specific brands we use, you can check out the information below.

Carry-on Bag Packing Checklist

We are going to start with items you will want to carry on the ship with you. My family and I tend to board the cruise ship with a carry-on backpack. This allows us to organize our carry-on items in the different sections of the bag. The backpack is also super easy to carry around on the ship.

Many cruise lines do not allow you to have access to your cruise cabin until mid-afternoon. This means you’re basically stuck with your carry-on bag until your stateroom is open. So, make sure you choose a carry-on bag that is comfortable to haul around with you until you can store it in your room. You can see the bag we use here . (Amazon Affiliate Link)

Note that your carryon bag must be able to fit through the security machine upon entering the cruise terminal . Similar to the airport X-ray machine, your bag must be able to slide through the machine. The items below are important items that my family and I make sure to pack in our cruise carry-on bag:

• Passports/Identification Documents – We use our passports at check in and then store them in the stateroom safe throughout the trip. 
• Driver’s License – Since we leave our passports onboard the ship, my husband and I take our driver’s licenses off the ship and into each port. It’s also a good idea to carry a picture of your passport just in case.
• Cash – Put $1 bills or $5 bills in your carry-on for tipping. We tip our driver to the port and the porters who handle our luggage when we arrive. 
• Sea Sickness Remedies – I pack motion sickness remedies in my embarkation bag just in case I need them before our luggage arrives in the stateroom. This includes Seasickness Bracelets . (Amazon Affiliate Link)
• Other Important Necessities – glasses/contacts, cell phone, camera, chargers, prescription medication, luggage tags

Additionally, you may need extra items if you plan to swim on embarkation day . My kids wear their swimsuits under their clothes when boarding. So, I pack a change of clothes for them in our carry-on bag in case their clothes aren’t in our stateroom by dinner time. If we plan to spend time on the pool deck, I also include sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hairbrush in our embarkation day carry-on bag.

Cruise Essentials

In addition to cruise essentials like pajamas, socks, undergarments, and shoes, you’ll want to add other clothing items to your packing list. The items below are included in our printable cruise packing list, but we will explain them in more detail below:

In general, you can wear what makes you comfortable on cruise ships. Most of the cruise lines have rules stating they don’t allow swimsuits or tank tops in certain areas of the ship. However, if you dress in what you would wear to a restaurant at home, you should be fine.

Even on a formal night, you will see lots of people wearing casual outfits and some in formal clothes. Therefore, you shouldn’t feel out of place in a formal gown/tux or in a sundress/polo shirt. Plenty of people will be wearing both types of clothing, so you will fit in no matter what you decide to do. 

We like to pack 3 swimsuits per person . This way we have an extra suit to wear while the other one is hanging to dry. Since we sometimes wear swimsuits at two different times during the day, we pack a third swimsuit to be safe.

There’s nothing worse than putting on a wet swimsuit! Even though we pack 3 swimsuits, I tend to only take 2 coverups per person. If you have extra space in your suitcase, you can always pack a third one though.

Depending on where you choose to eat on the ship, you can typically dress in a smart casual manner. My husband usually wears golf attire (polo and pants), and my daughters and I wear casual dresses for dinner in the dining room.

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I ALWAYS pack a cardigan or light jacket for my kids and me because the dining rooms can get chilly. Additionally, your cruise itinerary may include a theme night or two like pirate night, Caribbean night, 70’s night, etc. If you would like to participate in a themed night, you will want to pack accordingly.

In addition to your swimsuit and coverup, you will probably want an outfit to wear during the day. We tend to return to our stateroom after swimming to change into dry clothes before going back out for other activities. Day outfits can consist of anything from athletic wear to sundresses.

If you plan to work out on the trip or utilize the jogging track, make sure you pack sneakers and appropriate clothing for this as well. Also, try to determine what types of activities you may want to experience during the day. Some of these may have dress requirements. For example, an ice-skating rink may require long pants and socks.

You will typically find items like soap, shampoo, and conditioner inside your cabin’s bathroom. However, many cruisers prefer to bring their own items. You may also want to pack the following:

• Toothbrushes/toothpaste
• Floss/mouthwash
• Face moisturizer
• Shaving cream/razors
• Hair brush/Hair products
• Perfume/cologne 
• Air freshener 
• Flat iron/Curling iron 
• Hair Dryer (Most ships have this item, but we like to bring our own.)
• Dish soap/Bottle brush- If you bring refillable water bottles, you will want to pack dish soap to clean them in the bathroom. I also pack a bottle brush to reach down into the water bottle for cleaning. 
• Downy Wrinkle Releaser- This is a miracle product! You just spray it on your clothes, smooth them out, and the wrinkles disappear as it dries. You can find travel sized bottles here. (Amazon Affiliate Link)
• Liquid hand soap- This may just be my family, but we prefer liquid hand soap by the bathroom sink. The bar soap that is typically provided tends to dry out our hands, and it makes a huge mess.

Caribbean Cruise Packing List

If your cruise itinerary includes the Caribbean islands or the Bahamas, you are probably going to be spending time on a beach. If so, these are the items I recommend adding to your cruise packing checklist. (Note that the links below are Amazon affiliate links that take you to the product we use on Amazon.) 

• Beach Bag or Backpack
• Reef safe sunscreen
• Water Shoes (for beaches with lots of shells or rocks)
• Collapsible Sand Pail
• Refillable Water Bottles
• Jellyfish Repellent

It’s important to note that you DO NOT need to pack beach towels. The cruise lines should allow you to take a towel from the ship to use on any shore excursions provided you bring it back. 

(I also want to mention that I am only recommending items I personally use for my family. Any Amazon link you find in this post connects you to a product that I use for every cruise we take. I do not ever recommend things I have not tried and loved.)

Cruise Cabin Organization

Now that we have covered clothing and other necessities, let’s discuss some fun tricks and hacks for keeping your stateroom organized. These especially come in handy if your room is on the smaller side.

Key Card Holder

Many cruisers use lanyards to hold their room cards while on the cruise ship. While I used to recommend them and used them myself, I now carry my room card in my phone case. Since I tend to keep my phone on me at all times for picture taking etc, it seemed like a good idea to attach my room card to my phone. So, I purchased this phone case, which holds my ID and room card (and credit cards when I’m not sailing).

Some cruise cabins do not offer a lot of charging outlets for devices. Cruise lines are very particular about what type of power strip you can bring aboard. Surge protectors and extension cords are not allowed, but my family and I use this power strip to provide extra outlets when needed.

Laundry Bag

My family and I travel with a laundry bag on every trip we take. It makes it easy to have the kids throw all their dirty clothes in one spot. When we are unpacking at home, it’s easy to see where all the dirty clothes are located.

Packing Cubes

These packing cubes are AMAZING! You can buy them in different colors and assign each family member his/her own color.

You can pack pajamas in one, workout clothes in another, undergarments in a different one, etc. They make it super easy to unpack your clothing because you can pile them on shelves or in drawers without mixing up your items. I highly recommend them as we don’t travel anywhere without them. You can see the packing cubes we use here.

Gallon Ziplock Bags

I pack anything that can potentially leak in a Ziplock bag. I also pack a few extra bags to hold wet swimsuits. This way we can change clothes while on an excursion and put our wet swimwear in a bag.

These are awesome! Did you know that most of the walls, doors, and ceilings on the ships are magnetic? That means you can stick these hooks virtually anywhere in your stateroom and they will be secure. We like to hang wet swimsuits from the magnetic hooks. Many families also secure the hooks to the ceiling and attach a curtain to them. This serves as a room divider for parents/kids.

Over the Door Shoe Organizer

I also use the magnetic hooks mentioned above to attach this shoe organizer to the bathroom door or to a wall in our stateroom. You can then use the shoe organizer to hold anything from sunscreen to hairbrushes to toiletries. (Amazon Affiliate Link)

Hanging Closet Organizer

I like to pack this hanging closet organizer because it folds up really flat and doesn’t take up much space in your luggage. You can hang it inside your stateroom closet for more storage space. (Amazon Affiliate Link)

Baby Cruise Packing Checklist

If you are traveling with a baby or toddler, you will have extra items to take with you. Some of the items you may want to pack for little ones are as follows:

• diaper rash cream
• disposable diaper bags
• favorite toys/blankets
• sippy cups/bottles
• pacifiers 
• formula/breastfeeding accessories
• swim diapers 
• Pre-packaged snacks

Final Thoughts on the Printable Cruise Packing List

We know the above information can seem really overwhelming. Packing for any type of vacation is sure to be stressful. If you print the cruise packing checklist and refer to this post for explanations, you should be able to make a shopping list of cruise essentials. If you forget something, try not to fret. 

Many of the cruise ships and ports of call offer shops where you can purchase any forgotten items. We hope you found this information really helpful and that you enjoy your upcoming cruise vacation! If you would like to read more about my family’s adventures while cruising, you can check out our Oasis of the Seas Trip Review here!

Did we miss something? What would you add to the printable cruise checklist? Comment below to share with us!

Shari is an experienced planner and organizer for Disney vacations, cruising, and U.S. travel. Her family vacation information, reviews, and tips provide insight for moms and dads everywhere. You can read more about her story, including her journey through breast cancer, in the about me page.

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Cruise Packing List | Ultimate 2023 Checklist [With PDF Download]

Our 2023 Cruise Packing List is the only checklist you'll need in preparation for your cruise vacation. From the "essentials" to the "extras," we've got you covered.

We're constantly asked "what to pack for a cruise." To make it as simple as possible, we've created this printable PDF Cruise Packing List . Click that link for a high-resolution, downloadable Cruise Packing List.

Use the button above to add this to your Cruise Packing Pinterest Board .

We've also included your cruise necessities below. Each section of the list is broken up to provide a bit more detail. When advising our community to pack a "dress shirt," we often have follow up questions. Or when suggesting a "cruise power strip" we're given blank stares. That's why you'll find images and a short description to go along with many items on our checklist. Hopefully that helps to avoid any confusion.

Clothes to Pack for a Cruise

*Below are the clothes you'll want to add to your cruise packing checklist.

This is probably the trickiest set of items on our cruise packing list. Depending on where you're cruising to and from, your clothing items will vary. Your specific itinerary will also have an impact on your packing list. If sailing for 7 days, you'll obviously need more stuff than a 3 nighter. Seven-night cruises are the most common. We'll assume seven night in our list below.

With our downloadable packing list, we've included a "Quantity" column. Feel free to adjust this. Some items will require multiple pieces (like socks).

As a woman, what clothes will I need for my cruise?

Cruise Packing List - CLOTHES

Athletic Shoes : You'll be doing a LOT of walking. You'll need a comfortable set of sneakers for the extra-long walks when exploring the ship, port, or hitting the gym.

Casual Shirts : Comfortable shirts are needed for strolling around, breakfast, port-stops, and more, throw on comfortable, casual shirt.

Dress Shirts : Pack dressier shirts and blouses for night-time activities such as dinner, shows, and lounges.

Dresses : Expect at least one "formal night" on your cruise. Check with your agent or the line to see how many you'll have. Consider bringing a dress for each that you plan to attend.

Gym Clothes : Cruise ships are equipped with running tracks, beautiful gyms, rock climbing walls, and many more opportunities to get active. Bring an outfit or two to get in on the action.

Jacket / Windbreaker : The top deck of your ship will be windy (guaranteed). Also, ship venues will have the A/C cranking. Have a light jacket or windbreaker to keep warm.

Jeans : Jeans are great for mid to late day activities. You'll wear these often to events like bingo, exhibitions, snacking, etc.

Leisure Shoes : You'll want shoes somewhere between a sandal and a sneaker. They'll be necessary for walking around the ship or port in mid-range distances.

Pants : Whether sweatpants or slacks, we're sure you have your favorite pants you'll want to take on vacation.

Sandals / Flip Flops : Hopefully you'll spend a good amount of time poolside or visiting cruise port beaches. Sandals are a must.

Shorts : You'll want a few sets of shorts to slip on during the day.

Skirts : Pack some longer skirts for night-time activities or shorter skirts for day-time activities.

Sleepwear : If you have a favorite set of jammies, make sure to stick those in your luggage. Your cabin could be warmer or colder than you're expecting based on the individual ship. Plan for either.

Swimsuits / Cover Ups : You'll want multiple swimsuits for the pool, jacuzzis, beaches, and maybe even waterslides. We bring 3-4 pairs for a seven-night cruise. You're expected to cover some skin when popping into the buffet and other eating venues, so pack a cover up for ease.

T-shirts : We typically pack 7 casual shirts or t-shirts for the week. Also, we love wearing a funny cruise shirt on Day 1 of the cruise. When wearing, you're guaranteed to make ship mates that you'll see throughout the week.

Undershirts / Bras : Easily overlooked and oh so necessary. The ship store will not have your favorite brand!

Underwear : Don't forget to pack that pair you've been saving for vacation. Ooh la la.

Accessories to Pack for a Cruise

Below are the cruise accessories that you'll want to add to your cruise packing checklist.

These are in the " very easy to forget " category of our cruise packing list. You won't realize you forgot some of these items until you get ready for dinner on Night One of your cruise.

Not this time. Use our accessories checklist to assure that you're fully accessorized throughout your sailing.

Cruise Packing List - ACCESSORIES

Sunglasses : The top decks of your ship will be super bright. Not to mention the powder-white sands at port. Grab a UV-protected set of sunglasses for extra care.

Watches : Cruise ships are infamous for their lack of clocks. As such, cruise passengers are infamous for missing out on events. Consider bringing a watch that's easy to adjust. Cruise ship staff may ask that you set your clock to a specific time (ship and port times can actually differ) to assure that you're back on board before the ship leaves.

Hat : We take a few hats with us. Some for "dress up" and then possibly another for the gym or jogging track.

Belts : This is probably one of the most forgotten items. A missing belt can ruin the whole outfit. Please note that cruise ships have been known to mysteriously shrink belts.

Jewelry : There are two schools of thought here. The first is to pack your fancy jewelry that you otherwise don't get to wear in "real life." Strategy Two is to only include the cheap stuff on your cruise packing list. We see the logic in both and will let you decide.

Purses : We bring purses for night-time activities (dinner, shows, bars) and small handbags for the essentials. Typically, one of each will do.

Journal : If you're like us, you enjoy capturing your cruise vacation in time. There's nothing better than sitting top deck with a warm coffee and journaling about the amazing cruise thus-far.

Toiletries to Pack for a Cruise

Below are the toiletries that you'll want to add to your cruise packing checklist.

Another set of easily forgotten cruise packing list items... Toiletries! If you forget dental floss, you'll probably be just fine. Forget your contacts, though, and things could get a bit less enjoyable.

Below, you'll find a list of the essentials you'll need in your cruise bathroom.

Cruise Packing List - TOILETRIES

Shaving Cream and Razors : Just know that your cruise cabin bathroom will be tiny. There's very little space to maneuver, in case that impacts your choice of shaving devices.

Toothbrush and Toothpaste : A tube of travel-sized toothpaste will last one person the full week... unless you really like the taste of toothpaste.

Tweezers : It always happens. You think to yourself, "I won't need these." Then two days into your vacation, you really wish you had them. They take up so little space, just pack them!

Makeup : You'll have seven full nights to get all "made up." Make sure to take advantage of each!

Makeup Remover : After a few drinks, it's so easy to just hit the hay without washing off "your face." Make it easy on yourself by packing some proper makeup remover.

Contacts & Solution : There will be plenty to see. Make sure you're able to fully take it all in by packing your contacts and solution.

Hair Brush : "Salt hair don't care" is a phrase that feels appropriate here.

Deodorant : Travel-sized may not be enough. Bring a full stick just to be "sure."

Floss : Food will be in abundance. And some of it may come in the form likely to get caught up in those teeth. You'll be glad that you packed floss.

Facial Cleanser : Your face will undergo a daily regimend of lotion, salt, sand, margaritas and more. Prepare to wipe the slate clean at the end of the night.

Shampoo & Conditioner : We use the cruise ship stocked shampoo and conditioner, but can appreciate that some like to add these to their cruise packing list.

Moisturizer : Unlike a hotel, typically a cruise cabin will not come equipped with moisturizer. Bring your own to stay hydrated.

Face Lotion : Keep your face healthy from the sun, lotion, makeup, and salt air from the week.

Electronics to Pack for a Cruise

Below are the electronics that you'll want to add to your cruise packing checklist.

Some people prefer to unplug on their cruise. Not us. We like to enhance our cruise experience with our favorite gadgets.

Whether watching our favorite movie on the back deck of the ship, jamming to our favorite song while jogging the track, or capturing a wide shot of the port, we appreciate our electronics while cruising.

Here are the items our family packs for each cruise.

Cruise Packing List - ELECTRONICS

Camera & Memory Card : Smartphones are great for capturing most photos. But, to get that underwater shot or for museum-quality photos, we like to bring our own gear.

Video & MP3 Player : We use this less on the cruise than we do traveling to our ship. While waiting for our plane or our embarkation group to be called, this is a great option to pass the time.

iPhone : We try to limit our phones to photos, the ship's texting plans, and emergency contacts.

Laptop & Charger : We're much more motivated to curate and edit photos or videos as we go. If we wait days or weeks to edit, it never gets done. A laptop is the easiest way to edit as we go.

iPhone Charger : Bring a good charger, not a dollar-store version. You'll find yourself waiting in your cabin while your device charges and you'll want to limit that downtime. A good charger will achieve that.

Cruise Cabin Power Strip : Your cabin has just one outlet. Turn two outlets into five with a small power strip. Note, cruise lines ban most power strips. This power strip is cruise approved.

eBooks : Another great way to spend the time. We love curling up with our favorite e-book while the sun sets. Make sure to download before you board the ship, as internet will be gone (or terrible) once at sea.

Earphones : Don't forget your favorite earbuds or noise cancelling headphones.

Health Items to Pack for a Cruise

Below are the health essentials that you'll want to add to your cruise packing checklist.

You've waited so long to finally set sail and you deserve this vacation. Don't let anything, like a sunburn or seasickness, ruin it for you.

Below you'll find the "must-have" health & wellness items for your cruise packing list. It's better to be prepared and to sacrifice a little bit of luggage space then to wish you had some of these essentials once on your ship.

Cruise Packing List - Health Items

Compression Socks : Many in our community complain about the "swelling" that occurs on a cruise ship. We've also heard from many that compression socks are the best way to control this ailment.

Water Bottle : This is an absolute essential. It's surprisingly inconvenient to find a glass of water on the ship. Pack this and never get parched.

Reading Glasses : While you won't have access to your Wall Street Journal, you will be reading the Daily Planner and Dinner Menus with frequency.

Tissues : Tissues are always an essential when traveling, particularly with children.

Dramamine : Seasickness can be devastating to your cruise experience. If Dramamine isn't your cup of tea, here are 32 other ways to prevent or treat seasickness .

Prescription Meds : An obvious and super important item on our cruise packing list.

UV Sanitizer Box : In this day and age you can never be too careful. This UV Light Sanitizer Box uses ultraviolet rays to kill pathogens on key cards, phones, and more. It's the same technology used in hospitals! UV Sanitizer Box

Vitamins : Your diet is in for a roller coaster of a ride. Bring vitamins and probiotics to supplement your health.

Pain Reliever : This can come in handy for common headaches or less common ailments like sore feet (from tearing up the dance floor).

Feminine Hygiene Products : Also available at the ship's sundry store if needed.

First Aid Kit : You can always visit your ship's medical facility when needed. We like to have this on-hand for minor cuts and scrapes as well.

Photocopy of Medications : In the rare case that you and your bags are separated, this will come in handy. This can also be used as a shopping list while in Mexico... totally joking - please don't do that.

Refillable Sanitizer Bottles : These are super convenient! Attach to your cruise lanyard or other accessory. Everywhere you go, you'll have sanitizer at the ready! Refillable Travel Sanitizer Bottles

Lip Balm : The cruise line gift shops likely make a killing charging 5x the cost of lip balm for all those forgetting to pack this essential item.

Sunscreen : Double up on your favorite sunscreen. We want to see you cruising for many years to come.

Money & Docs to Pack for a Cruise

Below are the money and document items that you'll want to add to your cruise packing checklist.

This is one of the more boring categories, but essential to get right on your cruise packing list.

You can forget many of the items on this list and bust out the credit card as a fail safe. But if you forget that credit card, you're in some deep waters.

Double-check this section of your list to assure everything is checked here.

Cruise Packing List - Money & Docs

Cash : Don't worry about foreign cash. The almighty USD is all that you'll need at any of your cruise ports.

Credit Cards : Always default to your credit card rather than your debit card when on a cruise. You'll be much more protected in situations where it's necessary.

Passport & ID : Technically, you probably won't need your passport. But if you have an active passport, we strongly encourage you to bring it.

Vaccination Card : You may or may not need this. Check your specific cruise ship policies for confirmation.

Photocopies of ID's : In the case that your ID or passport is stolen, this will be critical. Consider hard copies and digital copies as backup.

Insurance Information : Most personal insurance plans aren't covered on cruise vacations. You'll want cruise-specific coverage. Here's a great article on what you'll need and what you can expect to pay.

Pen and Paper : You'll need a pen to fill out boarding and customs docs. A pad of paper could also come in handy for those note-takers out there.

Boarding Pass : The cruise line will email your boarding pass. When showing up to your embarkation port, they'll ask for this. It's not 100% necessary, but will save some time.

Excursion Confirmations : It's a good idea to book shore tours in advance. Search all major providers using Gangwaze . Once booked, print and pack your confirmations.

Emergency Numbers : Include essential contacts back on shore in the case that someone needs contacting in an emergency.

Extras to Pack for a Cruise

Below are the extra must-have items that you'll want to add to your cruise packing checklist.

While the items below aren't 100% essential to your cruise packing list, they can seriously enhance your cruise.

This is, by far, the most fun packing category. In the cruise items list below, we've included the best of the best "extra" items to buy in preparation for your sailing. To see more of these items, check out our post, 29 Cruise Essentials on Amazon .

For some of these items, we've included links to our favorites found on Amazon. All have been thoroughly tested and get our seal of approval.

Cruise Packing List - Extras

Cruise Luggage Tag Holders : Your cruise line will email your e-tags before your cruise. They'll advise you to staple these to your luggage. We're better than that. Cruise Luggage Tags on Amazon .

Playing Cards : Gin Rummy has never been more fun than when played listening to the crashing ocean waves.

Bottle of Wine : Most cruise lines allow you to bring one bottle of wine. Don't lick a gift horse in the mouth... or whatever that expression.

Travel Pillow : Great for the plane ride, but also wonderful in your deck chair.

Towel Bands : The Lido Deck is super windy. Don't lose your towel (and towel deposit) to Mother Earth. Towel bands are a perfect way to secure these to your chair. They also make it easier to find your beach chair in a sea of similar towels. Cruise Towel Bands on Amazon

Ear Plugs : Your cruise neighbors and their noise level is entirely up to chance. Be prepared.

Cruise Lanyards : Never lose your cruise key card again. Also protect money and credit cards while at port. Cruise Lanyards on Amazon .

Cruise Cabin Night Light : One of the most brilliant cruise products we've ever used. Invaluable for the pitch-black cruise cabin in the middle of the night... and it's magnetic to stick to your cabin wall! Cruise Night Light on Amazon .

Cruise Cabin Hanging Organizer : Staterooms are tiny. Add this to your cruise packing list to become the most organized cruiser on your deck. Make sure it's flame retardant, as with this one. Cruise Hanging Organizer on Amazon .

Collapsible Tote Bag : This is perfect for trips to and from the pool and also lugging stuff around port. And it collapses to the size of a wallet for easy packing. Collapsible Travel Tote Bag on Amazon .

Travel Laundry Bag : For those soiled clothes piling up in the cabin corner.

RFID Money Belt : Keep your essentials safe while at port. Your credit cards can be stolen these days from across the room without RFID protection.

Snorkel : If you have extra room and plan to snorkel, this is a great addition to your cruise list. You can pick one up for the price of a rental once you get to port. And you won't have to french kiss a used piece of plastic.

Cruise Staff Thank You Cards : These will turn good service into amazing service and it's heartwarming to do. We've seen cruise staff in tears and never go without these. Cruise Crew Thank You Cards on Amazon .

If you haven't yet, you can download our printable PDF Cruise Packing List . Feel free to add or edit it as you'd like. We hope that it helps to remember everything that you need.

If you found this post helpful, please use the buttons below to share this post with your cruise communities.

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The Ultimate Cruise Packing List, Tips and Hacks (Free Digital and Printable Checklist)

What’s the biggest headache associated with going on a cruise? Figuring out what to pack for a cruise.

It’s not just deciding on what suitcase to pack; it’s deciding what to pack, and how much of everything to try to jam into your suitcase, with space left over for souvenirs, of course.

Relax. Our cruise packing tips can help you pack smarter for any cruise and our cruise packing checklist will help you get out the door with everything you need.

And, if you’re really looking to cruise smarter,  see why travel protection is crucial for your cruise .

See all of our cruise articles

Cruise Packing Checklist

You can download our Cruise Trip Packing Checklist by clicking the button below. The  accessible interactive PDF  can be digitally checked off using any device or easily printed for your use.

See text version of the cruise packing list

Cruise Packing Tips

1. Pack by subtraction

The best way to deal with the first big problem of cruise packing – deciding how much to pack – is to start with everything and whittle it down.

Here’s how you do that: Take everything you’re thinking of packing on your cruise and lay it out on your bed. Spread it out, so you can really see everything. Then start subtracting the things you don’t really need. Keep subtracting until you think you’ve reached the bare minimum. Then run it up against our cruise packing checklist and see if there’s anything you’ve forgotten.

Also read: Top 10 Cruise Tips and Hacks

2. Pack your carryon for the long haul

Lost bags happen on cruises, but a more common problem is that there are so many bags to get to so many rooms on a cruise ship that you might not see your main bag immediately.

Packing your carryon like it’s your only bag is the best way to deal with problems like these. Try to fit into your carryon:

• A couple of changes of clothes
• Basic toiletries
• Medications
• Food and snacks
• Reading material
• A travel pillow and blanket

That’s in addition to your important papers, credit cards, cash, and valuables.

If you can get all that into your carryon, you’re just about set in case of an unexpected baggage delay. Just don’t lose your carryon!

Also read: How to Choose the Best Cruise Line for You

3. Pack like you’re going to a resort

A lot of people think that going on a cruise means packing two types of clothes: swimwear and flip-flops, and tuxedos and formal dresses.

The truth is somewhere in between. While swimwear and flip-flops are musts, “cruise formal” attire is actually less formal than you think. A light sportscoat, a polo shirt, and slacks are fine for men, while women should wear cocktail dresses or pantsuits.

Cruises vary in their formality, so check to confirm. And don’t worry: If what you’ve packed is totally outside of  de rigueur  for your cruise, you should be able to rent something suitable onboard.

Also read:  What You Need To Know about Hurricane Travel Insurance and Cruising

4. Pack layers

No one thinks it gets cold on a Caribbean cruise ship, but news flash: It can get cold on a Caribbean cruise ship. Here’s the other thing to consider: If you’re on a Mediterranean cruise that stops in the Middle East or North Africa, you may need to pack clothing that covers your arms and head.

The answer isn’t to pack two separate wardrobes; it’s to pack layers. Pack your T-shirts, but add a windbreaker, cardigan (note: you can’t beat cashmere), and scarf. For cold-weather cruises, add a long-sleeved thermal undergarment and a loose-fitting, water-repellent shell to your warm sweaters.

This can get bulky, especially if you’re living the carryon life, so wear as many layers as you can when flying to your departure destination. At the very least, a rolled-up alpaca sweater makes a wonderful pillow.

Also read:  What to Do if Your Luggage is Stolen on Vacation

5. Suck out all of the air

As any parent of an off-to-college teen can tell you,  vacuum-seal storage bags  are an ultimate hack when it comes to packing. They couldn’t be easier to use: throw your clothes in a bag, hook up the vacuum cleaner, and suck out the air. They’re almost foolproof, but remember: Any clothes that aren’t folded well will come out with the wrinkles practically nailed in. One other note: TSA allows vacuum-seal storage bags, but does not encourage them -- in case they need to inspect the contents, it could be difficult to repack.

Packing cubes are another super packing aid, especially if you’re organizationally challenged. The littlest ones are great for chargers and cords and they are easier to repack if TSA causes you to reorganize your bags in the airport.

6. Go for the freebies

You know those little TSA-approved plastic bottles that came with your carry-on? Leave them home. Take the free versions of shampoo, conditioner, and lotion from your hotel the night before you leave.

Also read: Tips for Going on a River Cruise

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Generali Travel Insurance (@generalitravel)

7. Cruise Packing Hacks

Slip these into your suitcases, and you’ll be ready for anything:

• Power strip/extension cords.  Staterooms are notoriously skimpy on outlets – and you’ll want to charge everything.
• Extra clothes hangers.  The smaller the better. Have a lot of leftover little-kids' hangers? Take them with you. They’re great for lighter items.
• Earplugs . There are thousands of people on an average cruise ship, and they don’t all go to bed at 9 p.m.
• Laundry items.  Put dryer sheets in between layers of clothes to get rid of that musty smell, and if one of your hotel shampoo bottles spills over your best dress, a stain stick and some cold water can come to your rescue. Also, doing your own laundry means you can pack less – maybe.
• A spare bag.  If you’re a souvenir hunter, you have two choices: Ship your gewgaws home, or pack an extra bag and fill it with your finds.
• Office supplies and mini-tools . You’ll always find uses for Post-Its, pens and pencils, and paper clips. And if you wear glasses, don’t forget a mini-screwdriver.
• Flashlight . You know those six-for-$3 LED flashlight bargains you see in the sporting-goods section of your local Discount Mart? Buy a pack. Put a flashlight in every bag, and have one by your nightstand. You’ll never again trip on a desk or bed in the night.

Also read:  Travel Packing Tips and Hacks to Help You Pack Like a Pro

Cruise Packing List

Here’s the rest of the items that should be on your cruise-packing checklist, alphabetized for your convenience. If you're traveling internationally, don't forget to cross-compare with our ultimate checklist for traveling abroad . 

Pack in Your Luggage

• Athletic/walking shoes
• Bacitracin or other first-aid ointment/alcohol swabs
• Beach towel
• Blow dryer/hot comb
• Cologne/perfume
• Contact lenses/solution
• Copies of important papers
• Dress shirts
• Dress/dancing shoes
• Emergency contact info (family, friends, banks, credit-card companies)
• Extension cord and/or outlet strip
• Face cleanser/moisturizer
• Feminine-hygiene products
• Flashlight(s)
• Formal wear
• Hairbrush/comb
• Haircare items
• Hand sanitizer
• Over-the-counter pain medication
• Insect repellent
• Jackets/raincoat
• Jeans/slacks
• Jewelry (not your most valuable)
• Laundry bag
• Laundry items (soap, fabric-softener sheets, stain stick)
• Makeup/makeup remover
• Nail clippers
• Nail polish
• Pencils/pens/paper clips/Post-Its
• PJs/nightgown
• Plug adaptor
• Polo/casual shirts
• Purse/handbag
• Sandals/flip-flops
• Shampoo/conditioner
• Shaving supplies
• Stockings/socks
• Sweaters/sweatshirts
• Swim goggles
• Swimsuits (at least two)
• Toiletry bag/dopp kit
• Undergarments

Pack in Your Carry-on

• Blanket and pillow
• Boarding passes
• Changes of clothes (2)
• Chargers (including a power bank)
• Chewing gum
• Computer or tablet
• Copies of prescriptions
• Credit/debit cards
• Dramamine or other seasickness medication
• Eye mask /ear plugs
• Headphones/earbuds
• ID/passport/visa
• Insurance cards
• Itinerary and other cruise-related paperwork
• Jewelry and other valuables
• Maps/guidebook
• Pen/pencil/paper
• Toothbrush/toothpaste/dental floss/mouthwash tabs
• Water bottle

Also read:  Should You Buy The Cheapest Travel Insurance?

Cruise Travel Protection

One more thing to pack on every cruise:  travel insurance and assistance from Generali Global Assistance. We have comprehensive trip protection plans that can cover almost any cruise or other travel adventures you embark upon.  Get a quote  today. 

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Ultimate Cruise Packing List (Includes Cruise Packing PDF)

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may earn a commission if you decide to make a purchase through our links, at no cost to you. You may view the disclosure here .

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My mom and I cruise a lot …and by a lot I mean at least 2-3 times a year. (I’d go more than that if I could, but I do work full time and only have so much vacation.)

Of courses, a cruise packing list includes things like swimsuits , tropical beach vacation dresses , bras and panties, and cute pink pajamas .

But there are other things you’ll want (and need!) to pack for your 7 day cruise.

This guide with tips on what to pack for a cruise includes

• Unique things to pack for a cruise
• A detailed cruise packing list and a master checklist of things to pack for a cruise
• Helpful things to pack for a 7-day cruise that you wouldn’t think of
• Optional things to pack on a cruise
• Tips on what NOT to pack for a cruise
• A printable cruise packing list/downloadable PDF with everything to pack for a cruise

Essentials to Pack for a 7-Day Cruise & Cruise Packing List

Unlike other vacations, where you can easily run to a Target or a Walmart, you can’t easily buy any last-minute essentials when you are on a boat in the middle of the ocean.

Granted, most cruise ships have nice shops with pretty clothes nice (like pretty dresses by Tommy Bahama), good-smelling perfumes, and makeup , but everyday essentials like razors and sunblock are usually overpriced at the cruise shops.

Here are my go-to essentials to pack for cruises that you may not have thought to pack.

1. Reef-Friendly Sunscreen

Some port locations require that you wear reef-friendly sunscreen. I personally like Hurley Reef Friendly sunscreen.

You need to protect your face, especially if you want to look younger than your age when you get older.

You’ll want to pack a hat too, but a visor will be helpful if you are outside and it is windy. I’ll tell you, my mom and I played pickleball on our last Holland America vacation and it was quite windy!

3. A Pretty Swimsuit Cover Up

You may be able to get away without a swimsuit cover up on other vacations, but you’ll definitely want one for pool days on a cruise.

Best Beach Cover Ups on Amazon

Best Plus Size Beach Cover Ups  

4. Earplugs

Earplugs. Really? Yes!

Even if your spouse/significant other doesn’t snore, the live bands and entertainment on cruise ships can be quite loud.

Don't forget to add earplugs to your cruise packing list.

5. Sunscreen for Your Face

You might be able to get away without wearing sunscreen on a normal vacation, but you need great sunscreen for your face while on a cruise. Below are the two sunscreens for your face that I swear by. One is more for everyday wear (EltaMD) and the other is for working out and for higher-sun days.

6. Advil/Aleve/Tylenol

You never know when you may need Advil on a cruise ship, and it's usually quite expensive if you buy it onboard the cruise ship.

It’s the worst when you have a headache. Cruise ships sell OTC pain medicine on board, but the prices are quite high.

I personally always travel with Advil just to be safe.

7. Pepto Bismol

In case the cruise food doesn’t agree with you…

8. A Cocktail Dress

It doesn’t have to be a black-tie dress, but you’ll definitely want a cocktail dress for Gala Night /formal night on a cruise.

RELATED: Cruise Formal Night Dresses

Depending on which cruise line you sail with, you’ll notice that the women (and men!) dress up a lot.

Many people also get their pictures taken on Gala Night, so you’ll want a nice dress if you plan on doing that.

9. A Beach Bag

There’s nothing like walking off the cruise ship with one of the free beach bags provided by the cruise line to scream, “tourist!!” Instead, pack your own beach bag with a zipper .

10. A Watch

Pack a watch for your cruise. The time on your cell phone may get off/be inaccurate/update automatically without your knowledge and be different from the ship’s time (not good!).

To be safe, pack a watch and make sure it matches the ship’s time before you explore each port.

11. Water Bottle

In case you get thirsty at night or at port, I find it much easier to pack an empty water bottle and fill it up in the buffet area.

Tip: Make sure not to put your water bottle directly under the water dispenser. Fill up a cup of water and dump it in your water bottle or ask a server to refill your water bottle to be more sanitary.

12. Bug Repellent

There’s nothing worse than being itchy, itchy, scratchy, scratchy! If you have any tours in the rain forest or near water you need bug repellent.

I often forget to pack bug repellent when I go on cruises. Add bug repellent to your cruise packing list!

13. Water Shoes

I’ll admit it. I don’t pack water shoes, but they will come in handy if you plan on snorkeling or getting into the water near rough rocks.

14. Instant Coffee

The coffee on cruise ships can be bad. And by bad…I mean REALLY bad. In case the coffee tastes horrible, pack your own instant coffee packs.

15. Rash guard and maybe a lightweight wetsuit

A rash guard will protect you on the beach and a lightweight wetsuit will keep you warm. The Caribbean Ocean can be cold in January/February.

16. Medications

Don't forget to pack any medications you may need!

Helpful Things to Pack on a Cruise

My mom packs so much for cruises. In fact, she even packs her own mattress pad to ensure a good night’s sleep! (LOL).

If you don’t mind taking two suitcases with you, or if you are going on a 10-day or two-week cruise, you may want to pack these additional items too.

1. Dramamine

Dramamine (for seasickness, although most cruises have so many balancers nowadays it isn’t really needed)

2. Pedialyte

Pedialyte or something similar is GREAT in case you drink too much and need a recovery.

A lanyard for your room key is super helpful!

4. Beach Floatie

A floaty for the beach is a must-have if you love the ocean. A float is also AMAZING because often the water is cold, and a small floaty is fun!

I LOVE to have a wetsuit when cruising in January or February. The water gets cold!

6. Magazines

It's nice to have magazines to read by the pool (I love Real Simple and Health )

If your cruise line allows it – you may be able to bring two bottles of wine or champagne on the ship

A new book you want to read

9. Playing cards

Your own instant coffee (sometimes cruise ship coffee is lousy)

11. Vitamins

It never hurts to take your daily vitamins

12. Sleep medication

(In case you have trouble sleeping one night)

13. Tupperware container

(if you are crazy like me, and like to keep healthy snacks in the fridge at night)

14. Your favorite shampoo/conditioner

(if you are particular)

15. Fun jewelry for Gala night

16. rash guard for your legs.

(the internet will be horrible/non-existent on a ship, but you may need it)

18. Anti-itch cream

(in case you get any mosquito bites on your cruise)

Master List of What to Pack for a Cruise

Heading off on your first 7-day cruise? Here’s a master list of everything to pack.

10 pairs of underwear (in case you get sweaty)

7 pairs of socks

1 strapless bra (to wear with tank tops/dresses)

1 comfortable bra (check out these best-selling plus size bras )

3 sports bras (if you like to work out)

1 sun guard shirt (for swimming in the ocean)

2 swimsuits (check out these swimsuits if you are on the curvy side )

1 pair of flip-flops

1 pair of semi-casual sandals

1 pair of sneakers/running shoes

2 pairs of workout shorts

4 basic t-shirts (for walking around town or working out in)

1 pair of pajamas

1 formal dress

1 cocktail dress

1 pair of heels

1 pair of jeans

1 pair of leggings with pockets (perfect for travel! I love 90 Degree leggings )

1 sweatshirt (in case it gets cold)

1 button up sweater (to wear over a dress or tank top)

5 semi-dressy but casual tops

Travel Documents:

Photo ID and driver’s license

Proof of vaccination and negative COVID test

Emergency contacts (just to be safe)

Your cruise boarding pass

Your cruise luggage tags

Confirmation pages (receipts) of any excursions booked

Cruise Packing List: Essentials to Pack on a Cruise

Cash (for buying things at the port or paying for taxis) – I’d recommend at least $150

Sunblock (I love good-smelling sunblock)

Beach bag for port days and beach days

Eyeglasses/contacts (if applicable)

Cell phone charger

Personal Items to Pack on a Cruise:

Under-arm deodorant

Face wash/face scrub ( Trader Joe's has a really good $5 face scrub perfect for travel)

Shaving cream

Fingernail clippers

Travel-friendly makeup

Toiletries (e.g., tampons)

Unique Things to Pack on a Cruise (things you’d never think to pack!)

Reef-friendly sunscreen (I love Hurley sunscreen )

Sunblock for your face ( Elta MD is my favorite )

Beach bag with a zipper

Tylenol/Aleve/Advil

Bug repellent

Pepto Bismol

Formal dress/cocktail dress for Gala Night

Swimsuit cover-up

Water bottle

Instant coffee

Light weight wetsuit

Cruise Packing Checklist and Cruise Packing List PDF 

Searching for a printable checklist?

Download a cruise checklist PDF here .  

Cruise Packing Checklist PDF

What NOT to Pack on a Cruise

Whatever you do, please don’t pack these items on your next cruise.

These items are either 1) not needed or 2), not allowed and will be found by security and taken until you disembark from the cruise ship.

Prohibited Items on Cruise Ships

Hair dryers (there are hair dryers in the state rooms on cruise ships)

Liquor or beer (even if you hide alcohol in mouthwash containers, they may get found and confiscated)

Weapons (of course)

Items to NOT Pack on a Cruise

Beach towels (the cruise line will provide you with fresh beach towels each day)

Shampoo, conditioner, and soap (the cruise line provides this)

Expensive jewelry (you don’t want to be a target at port)

Shoe organizer (one cruise packing list included this; there’s no need!)

Nightlight (your stateroom has night lights near each bed)

Outlet adapter (most cruise lines have normal outlets now)

My Favorite Cruise Clothes and Accessories to Pack

Below are some of my favorite cruise clothes and accessories to pack! 

Comfy Cotton Dress

View on Amazon

This cotton dress is comfy, cute, and stretchy! Perfect for a cruise. Plus, the sleeves will prevent your arms from getting burned while cruising.

This hat will instantly put you in the vacation mindset for your cruise!

FAQs about Cruises and What to Pack for a Cruise

Have a question about cruising, the Holland America Cruise line, vacations to tropical and warm places, or what to wear on a cruise or tropical beach vacation?

Please leave a comment. I’d love to help you out!

What can you not bring on a cruise?

Firearms & ammunition, CBD oil , candles, incense, hot plates, hookahs, pepper spray, alcoholic beverages, and knives are prohibited on cruises. Refer to your cruise FAQs online for a complete list.

How many outfits do I need for a 7-day cruise?

I’d recommend packing at least 5 daytime outfits (your clothes will get sweaty and dirty each day), 1 formal outfit for Gala Night, and 2 semi-formal/going out outfits for the other Gala Night or a night out dancing on the cruise ship.

Do I need to bring hangers on a cruise?

No, your cruise line will provide hangers in your stateroom. You can ask your stateroom attendant for more hangers if you need more.

Do you get towels on a cruise?

Yes, most cruise lines provide fresh towels in your stateroom for each day, towels at the pool on the ship, and beach towels to bring to the beach. 

How much cash should you bring on a cruise?

I’d recommend bringing at least $100 in cash on a cruise .

You’ll need to pay the taxi drivers cash at each port (plan for $15/day per person) and you’ll likely need cash to buy souvenirs at each port.

Tip: Many store owners offer a 10-20% discount if you pay in cash vs. credit card, so I personally pack $200 in cash for each cruise. Last time I bought a beautiful hat and sunglasses for $50 cash and I’m glad I had that much cash on me.

Do you carry a purse on a cruise?

Yes, I personally carry a cruise on the ship.

That way, I can carry my stateroom key card, photo ID, cash, ear plugs (for dancing at night), sunblock, and sunglasses with my everywhere I go.

Can you bring your own cup on a cruise?

Yes! I highly recommend it. I pack a water bottle and a coffee cup with a lid and straw with my on each cruise.

What to pack for a cruise to the Bahamas?

For a 7 day cruise to the Bahamas, you’ll want to pack at least 3-4 daytime outfits, one formal outfit for GALA night, plenty of sunscreen, at least two swimsuits, and a broad hat and beach bag.

You’ll also want to pack at least one colorful and tropical dress .

Download this complete cruise packing list with everything you’ll need (and other helpful items) for a cruise to Mexico.

You may also want to check out these beach vacation outfits for ideas on what to pack for a cruise to the Bahamas.

What to pack for a cruise to Mexico?

For a 7 day cruise to Mexico, you’ll want to pack daytime outfits, a formal dress, sunblock, and cute sandals . You’ll also want to pack a cute romper and a rash guard, especially if you will be snorkeling.

You may also want to check out these vacation outfits for Mexico to get ideas on what to pack for a cruise to Mexico.

More Cruise Guides to Help You Plan the BEST CRUISE EVER

Want to plan the best cruise vacation possible?

Check out these travel and vacation outfit guides to guarantee your best cruise vacation to date.

Cruise Outfit Ideas

The Best Plus Size Tropical Dresses for Cruises

Cute beach vacation dresses for women

Cruise outfit ideas for your beach vacation

The best swimsuits for plus size pear shape women

The best dresses for apple shaped body

The best plus size maxi dresses on Amazon (perfect for wearing on cruises)

Cruise Planning Guides

Holland America Rotterdam Ship (pictures and deck plan included)

Holland America Cruises : Tips for a 1 st time cruiser on Holland America

How to not gain weight on a cruise

Swimsuits for Cruises

Cute swimsuits for curvy women

The most flattering one piece swimsuit for women over 60

Cute one piece swimsuits for women

The best plus size swimsuits for women

Beach Cover Ups for Cruises

The Best Beach Cover Ups , Including the Best Beach Cover Ups for Older Ladies

Affordable and flattering plus size beach cover ups

Super cute beach skirt cover ups and sarong cover ups

Crochet beach cover up dresses for cruises  

YouTube Cruise Guides

Cruise Tips & Tricks for Beginners

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One comment.

Greetings Christina Marie!

Finally, I think I have a way of writing you that is not so public. I left a “private” message on your facebook and also left my email in one of your recent youtube posts, but perhaps I have a better chance of catching you here.

Listen, I worked for Holland America years ago as a tour bus driver in Alaska and also in Seattle, WA. When I left, a previous co-worker told me I was eligible for the HAL Friends & Family rates. I pay $35 dollars a year to keep my membership current and several friends have used my benefits. It would make me very happy to share these with you and your mother. At the very least you can consider whether or not these might work for you, but I would feel entirely comfortable sharing. I get notices about every week. Up until now I haven’t been able to use my benefits, but am starting to have room in my life to do so at some point. The offer of sailings is quite remarkable. I’m not asking for any payment; you are most warmly welcome to take me up on this at any time.

Here is a dropbox link to the most current PDF: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fi/75sw1diidrh4r0uxv6cvi/HAL_240329.pdf?rlkey=tj1byx7bcfwous9kto7io56dn&dl=0

And if you prefer to receive the PDF via email, just let me know. Whatever you are comfortable with.

Thank you for your helpful content. No one is specializing in HAL like you and your considered approach is both practical and unique.

Warm wishes from Spokane, WA!

Jane Beringer

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• Food & Drink
• How to Plan
• Shore Excursions
• Onboard Activities
• What to Expect

Ultimate Cruise Packing Tips for First-Timers

By Carnival Cruise Line

• Remember Essential Documents
• Bring a Carry-On Backpack
• Keep a First-Aid Kit
• Use Sun, Bug, and Rain Protection
• Wear Comfortable Closed-Toed Shoes or Water Shoes
• Have Proper Attire For Dinner
• Take a Light Jacket, Sweater, Sweatshirt or Wrap
• Carry a Non-Surge Power Strip
• Use Resealable Plastic Bags
• Bring Hanging Essentials
• Remember Additional Cruising Essentials

After lots of dreaming and planning, you’re going on your first cruise . Now, all you have to do is pack. Don’t worry. This handy cruise packing checklist for first-timers offers all the tips you need for an enjoyable voyage.

Essential Documents

When packing for a cruise, start with a few essential documents. Make sure to bring:

• Your paper or digital airline tickets, if you are flying to your cruise departure port
• Your cruise documents
• Your passport, an enhanced driver’s license or a government-issued birth certificate to show proof of citizenship (take photos of these documents in case of loss)
• A certificate of vaccination (if required)
• A medical insurance card and your medical history
• Copies of your prescriptions and a list of all medications you’re taking

Carry-On Backpack

On the first day of your cruise , it may take a few hours for your luggage to be delivered to your stateroom, but you don’t have to wait to have fun. Stuff a carry-on backpack with essentials like your cell phone, wallet, bathing suit and sunglasses, and start swimming, sunning or exploring your ship immediately. When it’s time for shore excursions, pack this handy tote with everything you’ll need for the day and save space for a few souvenirs you’ll pick up along the way.

First-Aid Kit

Chances are, you’ll enjoy every day of your cruise in perfect health, but it’s good to be prepared for small ailments that might pop up like a scratchy throat, a headache or a blister. Bring along a small toiletry bag packed with pain relievers, cough drops, allergy medicine, adhesive bandages, antacids, antiseptic wipes, antibacterial hand gel and seasickness remedies like pills, wrist bands, skin patches or ginger chews.

Sun, Rain and Bug Protection

A few protective items keep cruisers comfortable on board the ship and on land. To guard against harmful UVA and UVB rays, pack sunglasses with UV lenses, sunscreen with an SPF factor of 30 or more and a brimmed hat.

In the event that you are going on a snorkeling tour, you need to remember to only bring eco-friendly sunscreen, as most tours now only allow that type of sunscreen on their excursions. In case of rain, stay dry with a small umbrella or light raincoat, and prevent bug bites with some travel-sized mosquito repellent.

Comfortable Closed-Toed Sandals or Water Shoes

Your footwear can make or break your cruise vacation. Comfortable, closed-toed sandals or water shoes with anti-slip soles make the perfect choice for staying upright on slippery pool decks, wading in rocky reefs, exploring ancient ruins or shopping till you drop in outdoor markets. For easy transitions from water to land, purchase products made from durable, quick-drying materials.

Proper Attire for Dinner

If you’re cruise packing for the first time, make sure to bring the proper attire for dinner. While you can come as you are at lunchtime, dinner on a cruise calls for more elegant attire. Think smart-casual dress for women and slacks and a collared shirt for men. If you enjoy extra glitz and glamour, you can dress up in cocktail dresses, gowns, suits and ties or tuxedos on “formal night.”

Light Jacket, Sweater, Sweatshirt or Wrap

When you’re at sea, it can get chilly after the sun goes down. Don’t miss out on stargazing from the deck or cozying up in a lounge chair with a box of popcorn for a dive-in movie . Stay warm and comfortable with a light jacket, sweater, sweatshirt or wrap.

Non-Surge Power Strip

These days, travelers depend on lots of electrical gadgets and electronics for a comfortable vacation including phones, tablets, cameras, portable gaming devices, electric shavers, hair dryers and curling irons. Make sure you have enough plug-ins and outlets in your stateroom by packing a non-surge power strip. When shopping, look for one with a few regular outlets and USB ports.

Resealable Plastic Bags

Who knew something as simple as a resealable plastic bag could be a cruiser’s best friend? These handy items take up little space in your suitcase, and they keep your smartphone, wallet and other items safe and dry on water-related shore excursions . When you’re ready to pack for your trip home, use them to store wet toothbrushes or bathing suits.

Hanging Organizers

Few items help keep your stateroom neat and orderly like hanging organizers. A variety of companies sell attractive toiletry bags that can hang on bathroom towel bars and hooks. For all of your toiletry needs, consider packing the following items:

• A comb or brush
• Conditioner
• Non-aerosol hairspray
• A toothbrush and toothpaste
• Dental floss
• Nail polish
• Nail clippers
• A razor and shaving cream

To keep other items like wallets, cell phones, sunglasses and water bottles organized and always at the ready, bring along an over-door shoe organizer with clear pockets.

Additional Cruising Essentials

A few additional essentials help ensure a more enjoyable cruise. To stay extra comfortable throughout your vacation, consider packing these items:

• Magnetic hooks to hold light jackets and bags, hats and wet swimming suits
• Athletic shoes for hitting the jogging track or SportSquare ™
• Wrinkle-release spray and spot stain remover to always look neat and put together
• A waterproof camera for exploring scenic reefs or cenotes
• Reading material like paperback books or magazines
• Magnetic message board for communicating with fellow travelers
• A lanyard for your cruise ship keycard

Because you may not be able to pick up whatever you need when you’re out at sea, it’s important to pack carefully for your first cruise. To ensure you don’t forget any of your must-haves, make use of this handy cruise checklist.

When packing for a cruise, always consider your destination , the duration of your trip, your ship’s onboard activities and the shore excursions you’ll be taking. But most of all, don’t forget to save room pack some new memories during your trip and have fun!

Note: Onboard activities, shore excursions, and dining options may vary by  ship  and destination.

Related articles

Plan for fun.

https://www.carnival.com/cruise-from.aspx

Cruise Packing List PDF – Free Printable Download!

Our Cruise Packing List PDF  will hopefully help you to remember the absolute essentials! A Cruise isn’t a “normal” type of vacation. Typically, when traveling, you still have access to everything that you’ll need. You can run to the local pharmacy for some medication. Pop over to the department store for some cheap sunglasses. Swing by WalMart for  some beach toys…

That isn’t the case when cruising. When you step foot on the ship, you’re leaving behind all of these conveniences . That’s why it’s so important to make sure you’re Cruise Packing List is complete.

We’re here to remind you of the little things you’d likely forget (or not think of) when planning your cruise. Would you have thought to bring Ear Plugs for a good night sleep in your cruise cabin? Or extra power outlets to plug in all of your essentials? And what about your reading glasses for your morning Cruise Planner?

Feel free to Print our Free Cruise Packing list PDF below. You’ll find the above items as well as many more. There’s also a space to personalize your checklist with any items we’ve left out.

Cruise Packing List PDF

Click on the image below to get and save your cruise packing checklist free PDF download.

Make sure to Pin this to your Pinterest Cruising Board of choice using the button above!

If you don’t care to print out the PDF version, you can find the items noted below.

Electronics Items

• Camera battery charger
• Cell phone and charger
• Film or extra memory
• Laptop computer
• Night light
• Plug adapter & converter
• Travel alarm clock
• Underwater camera for snorkeling
• iPad / Tablet
• Extra reading glasses
• Glasses, contacts & cleaner

Sporting Gear & Games

• Hats / visors
• Travel games
• Playing cards
• Sports gear (swimmies, etc)

Medicine & Sanitization

• Hand sanitizer
• Hamdi-Wipes
• Moisturizing lotion
• Prescription mediations
• Sea-sickness meds

Money & Documents

• Airline drink vouchers
• Airline tickets or e-confirmation
• Credit cards
• Cruise documents
• Driver’s license
• Medical insurance cards
• Passport or Visa
• Photocopies of documents
• Vaccination certificate (if required)

Travel Items

• Luggage tags
• Travel pillow
• Zip lock bags for flying
• Zip ties for luggage

Reading Material

• Address/email book
• Business cards for new friends
• Journal and pens
• Leisure reading

If we’ve missed any integral cruise packing items, please leave them in the comments below. We’ll be sure to add them to our list.

Thanks and feel free to “Share” using the buttons below!

14 thoughts on “Cruise Packing List PDF – Free Printable Download!”

Toothbrush and Charger Pill Box Camera, Charge up before leaving Print out luggage Tags for Cabin assignment Coat & tie or tuxedo for formal nights Separate credit card for travel outside of USA Some spending money like euros for Europe for tips and small purchases Extra Cash for ship use, like tips Extra Bar of Soap for ship use

Thanks for the list!

You’re very welcome, Steve – happy cruising to you!

Would like a printable list please.

I need to be organized

Just want to make sure I have everything. The checklist will help make sure I haven’t missed anything.

Love the packing list.

Thank you for the list!

You’re very welcome, Susan! Happy cruise packing!

I’m cruising to Alaska leaving July 28th!!! So Excited

I would appreciate a copy of the cruise packing list! Helping a family of 5 get ready for a Disney Caribbean cruise and Disney Island time! Thank you so much!

would like a copy of the cruise packing list

Link does not work to download the list.

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Counting down to your cruise holiday? It’s never too early to start thinking about what to pack. With our ultimate cruise packing checklist, you can simply tick off the items and relax knowing you are prepared for the trip of a lifetime.

Whether it’s your first or your hundredth cruise holiday, you always face the same packing conundrum: what goes and what stays? You want to pack light, but at the same time, you want to be prepared for all the fun and activities the ship and on-shore destinations have to offer. To help you, we’ve put together the ultimate cruise packing checklist. If you need it, it’s on the list. Plus we’ve included savvy cruiser packing tips to help you pack light and pack smart.

Best of all, you can print out the checklist as a handy printable PDF or spreadsheet, so you can tick as you pack!

Download Cruise Packing List PDF

Before you begin

Every cruise ship is different, so here are a few quick things you need to check before you start:

What’s the dress code policy on your ship? Some cruises have a strict dress policy, especially for dinners and events. Typically, casual dress is worn during the day and a semi-formal dress is recommended for the evenings. Some cruise ships require formal attire for evenings though, especially on the last night of the cruise. Don’t be caught without the right outfit – check before you pack.

Where will your cruise stop and for how long? Depending on the activities and climate at each port of call, you may need to pack a few extra items.

Every cruise ship has different activities, facilities and amenities. For example, some provide quality toiletries, whereas others stick to the basics. Becoming familiar with these things before you go will help you pack the right items. Check out our detailed ship articles for more information on your chosen cruise ship.

ULTIMATE PACKING CHECKLIST ESSENTIALS

Even if you forget everything else, DO NOT leave home without the following:

• Power adapters
• Mobile phone, plus charger
• Camera, plus battery charger, spare batteries and memory cards
• Laptop or tablet, plus charger
• Portable music device, plus charger and headphones
• Travel alarm clock
• 3-way power plug, if you have lots of gadgets
• Hairdryer, if you want more than the in-cabin hairdryer

Savvy Cruiser Tip: Always pack your passport, medical records, tickets, and other important documents in your daypack or carry-on luggage.

ELECTRONICS

Mobile phones, laptops, tablets, e-readers and digital cameras are part of everyday life. But when you consider all the things that come with them, it can be easier to leave them at home! Think about which gadgets you really want on your cruise.

With today’s cruise ships, you really don’t need to pack much entertainment! But here are a few things you might want to add to your list.

• Journal, diary or notepad
• Playing cards

Packing Tip: To save space, invest in an e-reader or visit the onboard library. You will also find playing cards and other board games onboard.

Your cabin will provide soap, shampoo and conditioner but if you have favourites, be sure to pack them.

• Sea sickness tablets
• Medications and supplements
• After-sun lotion
• Mosquito repellent
• After-bite cream
• Hand sanitiser
• Toothbrush, toothpaste, mouthwash, floss
• Razorblades, shaving cream
• Comb / hairbrush
• Glasses, contact lenses and cleaning products
• Feminine hygiene products
• Shampoo and conditioner
• Face products

Savvy Cruiser Tip: Ships will sell a range of toiletries, including razors, toothpaste etc., in case you run out.

EXTRA BITS & PIECES

There are all sorts of things you can pack to make your cruise more enjoyable and relaxing. Bear in mind that most ships have a laundry service and dry cleaning, but don’t expect it to be cheap! Some of the bigger ships offer self-service washing machines and dryers.

• Stain remover
• Ziplock bags
• Luggage locks
• Water bottle
• Shoe polish
• Eye mask       

Savvy Cruiser Tip: No need to bring beach or bath towels – these are all provided onboard!

You never know what weather or activities you might get on a ship or in port. Men, women and kids should pack the following items to be prepared for everything!

• Swimwear and cover-ups
• Exercise clothes
• Jumper or cardigan
• Long-sleeved top
• Raincoat / windproof jacket
• Gloves, scarves, hat (for cold destinations)

Be ready to move in shoes for every occasion, whether you’re lazing by the pool, beating your family on the sports court, or learning new dance moves!

• Sports shoes
• Walking shoes
• Thongs / flip flops
• Formal shoes

MEN'S CLOTHES

To get the most out of your wardrobe, mix and match as much as possible. Pack light fabrics with neutral colours that go together easily.

• Light trousers
• T-shirts / polos

Smart Casual

• Smart pants
• Business suit
• Formal shirt

Savvy Cruiser Tip: Check whether your ship offers a tuxedo hire service.

WOMEN’S CLOTHES

Choose versatile styles and neutral colours that you can easily mix and match throughout the cruise to keep your bag light.

• Smarter dresses
• Trouser suits
• Smart jacket
• Evening gown
• Cocktail dress
• Matching scarf

Savvy Cruiser Tip: Accessorise! With a choice of scarves and jewellery, you can get more from your wardrobe.

• Clothes for all weather, as above
• Travel backpack
• Travel journal and pencils
• Electronic games device, plus charger/batteries
• Child’s prescription medication (in carry-on bag)
• Child’s thermometer
• Favourite cuddly toy / blanket
• Swimming floaties
• Night light
• Kids’ toiletries (see list above)

Savvy Cruiser Tip: Pack a kid’s travel backpack full of snacks, activities and swimwear so you can explore while waiting for your bags to arrive in your cabin.

KBABY AND TODDLER ITEMS

• Clothes for all weather
• Bottles and kids’ cups
• Baby formula / food

Savvy Cruiser Tip: Check whether you can hire baby equipment onboard.

SHORE EXCURSIONS

Think ahead and pack the right items for every shore excursion.

• Phrasebooks
• Money pouch
• Any specific items required by your shore activity

Ready to get started? Print out this checklist and tick the items as you pack!

AN IMPORTANT NOTE: Each ship provides guidelines around what items are not allowed onboard the ships, which will include items like irons, candles, explosives, flammable liquids, weapons, power boards and extension cords. Be sure to check these guidelines. The local port authority will put your baggage through customs checks and have the right to confiscate any items at their discretion. Always be ready to declare items.

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Alaskan Cruise Packing Checklist: 80+ Things To Bring (Printable)

Need a checklist in order to pack for your cruise to Alaska? We have you covered.

Sailing to Alaska is like no other vacation. In fact, even if you’ve cruised before to somewhere like the Caribbean, what you pack to visit this region of the world can be very different.

That’s because Alaska presents more different situations that you’ll encounter than just about any other trip.

Consider that in the course of a day, you might wake up in the morning, and head to a hot tub in your swimsuit to take in the stunning views of Alaska. Then you might head back to the cabin to dress for a day that’s rainy and cool while you explore a port like Juneau.

That afternoon the weather could clear out, giving you a day that’s 75 degrees and sunny, meaning short sleeves and shorts are ideal. Back on the ship, it might be formal night, where you want to get dressed up for a nice evening around the ship.

And then there are all the other items to consider bringing, from binoculars to see wildlife to magnetic hooks that help you organize the cabin.

Remember, you can’t easily run out for something you forgot to pack, so having a full checklist to serve as a reminder of what to bring on an Alaska cruise is ideal. That’s why we’ve put together a printable list to help you plan. It has everything you need to consider bringing, all put into easy sections .

Note: This article contains links to Amazon. As an Amazon affiliate we earn a portion of each sale at no extra cost to you.

Download the Printable Alaskan Cruise Packing Checklist

Our checklist of things to pack for a cruise is completely free. While we cover all the items in detail below, you can click the image (or click this link ) to download the printable PDF.

Cruise Packing Checklist: Clothes

Clothing will make up the bulk of what you’ll bring on a cruise, and rightly so. With so many different scenarios to dress for when sailing to Alaska, just know that you’re going to want a little of everything.

We’ve constructed this list with the idea in mind of a typical 7-day round trip cruise. Remember that it’s ok if you wear the same thing twice on a cruise. For a 7-day cruise, having 3-4 outfits is a good idea.

Casual Clothes

• T-Shirts (at least one for every two days of your cruise)
• Shorts (at least one pair for your cruise)
• Long pants (at least 2-3 pairs)
• Long-sleeve shirts (great for adding layers)
• Swimsuit (At least one should you decide to hit the hot tub or heated pool)
• Light jacket or hoodie (this will be worn often)
• Rain jacket/poncho (rain jackets are ideal as they can keep you dry)
• Sleep clothes
• Athletic shorts (for hitting the gym)
• Flip-flops (won’t be worn much, but ideal for heading to the pool/hot tub)

Formal Clothes for Men

• Dress shirt
• Dress pants
• Dress shoes
• Blazer (optional, if you want to be more formal)
• Tie (optional)

Formal Clothes for Women

• Evening gown or cocktail dress
• Dress blouse
• Shoes/sandals

Cruise Packing Checklist: Items For the Cabin

Think you only need to pack things to wear? The following items are ideal for a cabin to make it more comfortable during your cruise. Don’t think you have to pack all of these items, but those that catch your interest should be brought along.

• Small fan (cabins don’t have fans to circulate air)
• Nightlight (interior cabins are especially dark)
• Magnetic hooks (to hang from the ceiling to dry swimsuits)
• Outlet adapter (to provide more outlet spaces in the cabin; those with surge protectors aren’t allowed)
• Shoe organizer (hangs over the door for storage of small items)
• Alarm clock (there’s no clock in the cabin)
• “ Poopouri ” or air freshener (bathroom smells can linger)

Cruise Packing Checklist: Personal Items

In addition to clothes, you need to pack a few other items with you to make your cruise to Alaska a success.

• Boarding documents
• Luggage tags
• Passport/birth certificate
• Emergency contact numbers
• Cash ( we’ve written about how much you need here )
• Backpack ( a light backpack is perfect for taking into port)
• Prescription medicines
• Over-the-counter medicines (headache, stomachache)
• Motion sickness pills/patches
• Ziploc bags (these bags have numerous uses)

Toiletries/Personal Care

• Cotton swabs
• Feminine products
• Hair straightener/curling iron
• Shampoo/conditioner
• Hair products
• Glasses/contact lenses
• Wet wipes (cabin toilet paper is thin, 1-ply product)

Cruise Packing Checklist: Kids Items

Cruises to Alaska don’t draw as many families as trips to the Caribbean but it’s certainly an awe-inspiring place for a family vacation. If you are packing for a family, then there are some things that good to bring. See our full list of ideas here .

Infants/Toddlers

• Silicone place mat
• Umbrella stroller
• A new toy (great for when kids are fussy and need a distraction)
• Bottles/water bottle
• Diapers and wipes

One thing to know is that cruise lines will provide a crib for sleeping in your cabin at no charge. Just let the staff know you need one.

• Handheld video games
• Playing cards
• Books/magazines

Cruise Packing Checklist: Other Items to Bring

While we’ve covered a number of things to pack for your cruise, there are some other miscellaneous items that are a good idea to bring when you sail to Alaska.

• Wine/champagne ( a bottle or two is allowed )
• Non-alcoholic drinks ( if allowed by your cruise line )
• Phone charger
• Lanyard (for holding your room keycard)
• Wrinkle-release spray
• Refillable bottle

Cruise Packing Checklist: Not Needed/Not Allowed

The following items may be tempting to bring, but cruise lines either take care of these for you or they aren’t allowed on the ship.

• Hair dryer (already provided in each cabin)
• Liquor/beer
• Homemade snacks (not allowed; pre-packaged snacks are ok)
• Towels (beach towels are supplied on the cruise)
• Clothes iron
• Weapons (including small knives and pepper spray)
• Marijuana (even if legal in Alaska)

Alaskan Cruise Packing Tips

Want some more tips on how to pack for a cruise to Alaska? Here are a few ideas that can better help you prepare when it comes to getting ready.

Luggage Rules Are Fairly Lenient (So Don’t Stress) We’ve talked about how you have to pack for a lot of different scenarios when sailing to Alaska on a cruise. The good news is that unlike traveling on a flight, cruise lines are very lenient on luggage. There are no fees for bringing luggage. There aren’t real limits on how much you can bring (within reason). Liquids are allowed in your bags, and there are even porters that will take your bags at the terminal and then they are delivered to your cabin.

In other words, yes, there is a lot to pack for, but it shouldn’t be a point of stress.

Remember the Flight When Packing While cruise lines are more relaxed in what you can bring, many people fly into port cities like Vancouver or Seattle to head to Alaska. Due to their location in the northwest, driving simply isn’t an option for many travelers.

In that case, you want to keep the flight in mind when packing. That means bringing less stuff to avoid baggage fees, being careful of liquid rules, and resisting the temptation to pack heavy suitcases as you’ll be carrying them around an airport.

Versatile Clothing Is Great Have a jacket that really only goes with one set of clothing? Leave it at home. Versatile clothing that can be worn in several different situations is ideal as it allows you to pack less. For example, instead of bringing one heavier coat in case it gets cold and windy, it’s a better idea to bring something lighter that can be worn with layers. This way you aren’t packing bulky items you’ll only wear once or twice. 

For more things to pack, don’t miss our 29 Must-Have Things to Pack for an Alaskan Cruise (11 You’d Never Think Of) .

Popular: 39 Useful Things to Pack (17 You Wouldn't Think Of)

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How to Pack Like a Pro: British Isle Cruise (Free Packing List)

A re you going on a British Isle cruise? Below, I will give you some travel tips on what to pack for your European cruise to England, Ireland and Scotland. Plus, I will share my British Isle cruise packing list as a free PDF printable that you can download and use as a checklist to help you with your cruise packing.

British Isle Cruise Packing Tips

When you go on a British Isle cruise, be prepared for weather fluctuations. First of all, rain is common in England, Ireland and Scotland. You need to be prepared for rain anytime. 

Also, the temperature can fluctuate a lot from cruise port to cruise port. For example, I went on a summer British Isle cruise, one day it was tank top weather high 80’s F and it was a good day to take a dip in the pool. Then the following day it was chilly, in the high 50’s F where you need a jacket. 

Plus you will be on an air conditioned cruise ship. When packing for your UK cruise, you have to pack with layering in mind. You should have clothes and accessories that can be versatile for rainy days to cool evenings. 

Looking to save money on your cruise? 21 Smart and Easy Ways to Save Money on a Cruise

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What to Pack for Your British Isle Cruise

Pack a few pairs of pants that are comfortable and easy to mix and match. Jeans, khakis and capris are great. 

Pack a variety of shirts that can suit different occasions and temperatures. You can pack t-shirts, polo shirts, button-down shirts, or blouses. You can also layer your shirts with a cardigan or a jacket.

3. Sweatshirts and/or Sweaters

Pack a few sweatshirts and/or sweaters that can keep you warm and cozy on the ship or on shore. 

You will need a jacket when you go on your British Isle cruise. It’s best to pack a waterproof jacket that will keep you warm and dry. It’s common for it to rain out of the blue with no warning and then be sunny immediately after. 

5. Socks and Underwear

Pack extra socks and underwear. Especially if you swim, that means you will need an extra underwear to change into. I always add extra, for example if you are going on a 10 day cruise, bring 14 underwear. 

6. Eveningwear (dress, jacket)

You will want to dress up on your British Isle cruise. Although the dress code is often optional, it’s always nice to dress up for the different evening dinners such as captain’s dinner, the gala night, or the farewell party. There are also a lot of photographers at the cruise so it’s always nice to be dressed up when you get your picture taken. I always try to get our family photo during cruises because it’s a lot less expensive to buy them on the cruise than having to go to a studio back home.

7. Hats or Baseball Caps

Pack a few hats or baseball caps that can protect you from the sun.

8. Gym Clothes with Sneakers

When I go on cruises, I always forget to pack gym clothes and I always regret not packing any gym clothes. They are perfect for working out on sea days or just relaxing on the ship (even if you don’t exercise).  

Pack some pajamas that are cozy and comfortable.

10. Flip Flops

Pack a pair of flip flops, you will need them when you go to the pool. It also doubles as slippers when you are in your cabin. 

11. Umbrella

Pack a small and compact umbrella that can fit in your bag. Trust me, you will be glad you have an umbrella for when it rains while you are out sightseeing. I suggest packing one umbrella per person so everyone has their own umbrella. 

12. Sunglasses

Don’t forget your sunglasses! It’s a must-bring for British Isle cruises.

13. Mesh Laundry Bag

Pack a mesh laundry bag that can help you organize your dirty clothes.

14. External Battery Packs

Pack a few external battery packs that can charge your devices and that can last for a long time. I like these external battery packs because they have a built-in flashlight. 

15. Chargers

Don’t forget to pack the chargers for your phone and other electronic devices!

16. European Plug Adapter

A European plug adapter is a useful item for your British Isle cruise. Depending on the cruise ship, you may or may not need one on board. However, if you are staying in a European hotel before or after your cruise, you will definitely need one. For UK and Ireland hotels, use this US to UK Travel Plug adapter . For other European countries, the Type C plug with two round pins will work. 

17. Electronics (iPad, Switch)

Don’t forget your devices to keep you and your family entertained – such as iPad, Switch, or Kindles. You will have some downtime during the cruise, especially on sea days, and you may want to use your devices. To avoid using your internet data or paying for a subscription on the ship, I recommend downloading movies and games at home before you board the ship.

18. Travel Coffee Mug

A travel coffee mug that can keep your drink hot or cold is a must-have for your cruise. I recommend these 20 oz insulated mugs with lids . I love filling mine with water or seltzer and adding some lemon for a refreshing drink. It’s so convenient to have it with me all day on sea days. You’ll thank me later when you don’t have to go to the buffet every time you need water.

19. Refillable water bottles

Refillable water bottles will come in handy during your Mediterranean cruise. Most cruise ships don’t provide free water in your cabin, unless you purchase the bottled water from the cruise line or get water from the buffet. I like to fill up my water bottles with water and ice and take it to my cabin. I also do the same when I go ashore. Don’t bring water bottles with straws since it’s a hassle to wash. I like these insulated water bottles without straws .

20. Bathing Suit and Swim Goggles

Since you are going on a British Isle cruise, you will most likely not be spending a lot of time by the pool since most days it will be too cold to swim. However, I’ve been on a June British Isle cruise and there were some days where it was pool weather! Also, if your cruise ship has an indoor pool, you may want to take a dip during one of the sea days. Bring your bathing suit and goggles just in case! 

21. Walking Shoes

You will be doing a lot of walking and visiting castles when you go on a British Isle cruise. Definitely bring comfortable walking shoes for exploring cities and when you go on shore excursions exploring castles. 

22. Sunblock

Pack some sunblock that can protect your skin and that can fit in your bag. I like to pack at least a 50 SPF sunblock. I usually bring a sunblock stick for the face and cream for the body. 

Check out: 30 Unusual Things to Pack for a Cruise: Things You Didn’t Know You Need

23. Tote Bag or Backpack

Pack a tote bag or backpack for when you go on shore excursions. It will come in handy to put drinks and snacks when you’re out sightseeing.   

24. Resealable Plastic Bag (Ziploc)

Pack some resealable plastic bags or Ziploc. It will come in handy to store snacks. If you have kids, you can get some Cheerios from the breakfast buffet and bring them down with you at the port for a snack. 

25. Luggage Scale

I always bring a luggage scale with me because it’s so easy to go over the airline checked baggage weight limit. To save me the stress and the hassle of having to move items around if one of my luggage is overweight, I always bring a luggage scale with me so I can weigh it to make sure it’s not overweight. I like this manual luggage scale with hook . 

Lost luggage is a major headache when it comes to traveling. Why not give yourself peace of mind by putting an AirTag in each of your checked luggage. That way, if you ever encounter lost luggage, you know where it is!

27. Evening Bag or Clutch Bag

Pack an evening bag or a clutch bag that will go with your evening wear. I personally like clutch bags with wrist straps so I can keep my hands free especially when I’m at the buffet. 

28. Shawl/Pashmina

A shawl or a pashmina is a handy item to pack for your British Isle cruise. You can use it to keep warm in the chilly dining rooms when you wear a dress. It also comes in handy as a blanket when you’re in the air conditioned bus during your shore excursion.

29. Dressy shoes

Pack a pair of dressy shoes that can complement your evening wear. Make sure it’s comfortable because that’s your only dressy pair!

Check out: 8 Reasons Why Balcony Cabins are Worth It on Your Next Cruise

30. Swim Cover Up

Pack a swim cover up. It’s especially useful when you are at the pool and just want to go to the buffet to grab a quick bite, you can easily put on the swim coverup. Of course, if you don’t plan to swim even if there is an indoor pool, then you don’t need a swim cover up.

31. Lip Balm with SPF

Pack a lip balm with SPF that can moisturize your lips and prevent sunburned lips. 

32. Lanyard

Pack a lanyard to hold your cruise card. Trust me, you will wish you had a lanyard because you need your cruise card for everything- getting on and off the ship, buying in the gift shop and getting into your cabin. It’s a hassle to have to rummage in your bag to find your cruise card. Do know that some ships will have wristbands (kind of like the Disney MagicBand) or even Medallion necklaces so you don’t need lanyards. 

33. Walkie Talkie

If you are traveling with family or a big group, it’s nice to have a way to communicate to each other onboard. Cellphone service is poor and internet service is expensive. Bringing a long range walkie talkie is an easy way to stay in touch and it can be a lot of fun for kids to use.

34. Binoculars with strap

I always pack binoculars when I go on cruises. It’s fun to use when your balcony. Definitely get one that is compact, lightweight and with a strap .

35. Seasick Medicine

Years ago, cruise ships used to give out seasick medicine freely. Now, I find that is not the case. It’s best to bring your own seasick medicine (unless you want to pay Cruise ship gift shop pricing!)  If you are cruising with kids, you should bring seasick medicine for kids – they are chewable and the dosage is meant for children. Check out: Cruise without Seasickness: Genius Tricks You Need to Know

36. Cross Body Bag with zipper

A cross body bag is a great choice for British Isle cruises since it can keep your valuables safe and handy. It’s also more convenient than a shoulder bag, as it stays close to your body and does not slip off. Make sure it has a zipper to keep your valuables secure. I like this crossbody bag that has RFID to prevent identity theft by keeping your credit card information secure. 

37. 1 Bottle of Wine (check cruise policy)

Most cruise lines will allow you to bring one bottle of wine on the ship when they board. You are allowed to bring one 750 ml unopened bottle of wine or champagne per person. Any alcohol that you buy ashore will be taken and kept until the end of the cruise. Double check with your cruise line before you bring wine. 

38. Corkscrew (no knife)

If you are planning to bring wine, don’t forget your corkscrew so you can enjoy it in your cabin. If you bring your wine to the dining rooms, you will be charged a corkage fee. Just make sure you pack a corkscrew that does not have a knife, as some cruises may have security rules or regulations for bringing sharp objects. To be safe, check your cruise policy.

39. Cash (small bills)

Pack some cash in small bills. It will come in handy for tipping. Of course, you can always get change from the guest services desk. But if you bring your own, you will avoid the long lines at Guest Services.

40. Travel Documents (Passport/Tickets)

Don’t forget your passport and tickets and other Identification for travel.

41. Photocopy of Passport/Cards

Pickpocketing is a common problem in Europe, so you should pack photocopies of your passport and your credit cards as a backup. If your wallet gets stolen, you can call the credit card companies to cancel the card and report the theft. You can also go to your consulate to report the loss of your passport, which will be easier if you have a photocopy of it.

Check out: I’ve Been on over 25 Cruises, Here are 17 Things I’ll Never Do on a Cruise

42. Toothbrush, Toothpaste, Comb

Don’t forget your toothbrush, toothpaste, comb, hairbrush, they don’t provide this on the cruise ship. You will have to buy it from the cruise gift shop if you forget to bring yours.  

43. Laundry detergent

British Isle cruises are typically long. You might need to wash some clothes. If you want to save money and avoid running out of clean clothes, you can wash some of your garments in the sink or the shower. Bring some laundry detergent to make it easier. I like these travel detergent packs .

44. Moisturizers and Face soap

Pack moisturizers, face cream and face soap. You don’t want to break your daily routine just because you are traveling. 

47. Shampoo/Conditioner (if you like to use your own)

This is optional. You don’t need to pack shampoo, conditioner, or body wash for the cruise ship, as they usually provide them in the shower dispensers. However, if you are picky about your hair products, like me, you may want to bring your own shampoo and conditioner.

48. Medication

Don’t forget to pack your medication. Bring some over-the-counter meds for allergies and pain relief.  If you take prescription medicine, bring extra in case of emergencies. You never know when you might get stranded due to a flight cancellation or a strike, which are common in some European airports, especially in France. I’ve gotten stuck in France many times because of strikes!

49. Lysol Wipes

I always pack Lysol wipes so I can sanitize my cabin. I like to wipe down the remote control, cabin phone, door knobs and more! 

50. Hand Sanitizer

Hand sanitizer is a useful item to pack for your British Isle cruise. Even though the ship has many sanitizing stations, you will need your own when you are out on shore excursions exploring castles and museums.

51. Magnetic Hooks

Most cruise cabin walls are made of metal, which means you can use magnets to hang your photos, notes, itineraries, and other papers. I like these cruise magnet hooks to stay organized. I hang baseball caps and cruise lanyards on these magnetic hooks. Just don’t forget to bring them home! 

Check out: 16 Cruise Ship Embarkation Hack (How to Board the Ship Faster)

2 Weeks British Isle Cruise Wardrobe for Women

Here is an example of what to pack on a 14 days British Isle Cruise for women

• 20 pairs of underwear
• 14-18 pairs of socks
• 14 t-shirts/blouse/button down shirts
• 10 pairs of jeans or pants
• 1-2 pairs of leggings (for the gym or sea days)
• 4 sweaters or cardigans or sweatshirts
• 5 sleepwear/PJs
• 1 waterproof jacket
• 1-2 blazers 
• 2 dresses or suit
• 1 pair of dress shoes
• 1 pair of sneakers
• 1 pair of very comfortable walking shoes (stylish, not sneakers)
• 1 pair of flip flops
• 1 bathing suit (optional)
• 1 swim cover ups (optional)
• 1 hat or baseball cap
• 2 shawls or pashminas
• 1 evening bag or clutch bag

2 Weeks British Isle Cruise Wardrobe for Men

Here is an example of what to pack for a 14 days British Isle Cruise for men

• 14 t-shirts/polo shirts/button down shirts
• 10 pairs of jeans/khaki pants
• 1 pair of shorts or sweatpants (for the gym or sea days)
• 4 sweaters or sweatshirts
• 5 sleepwear/pjs
• 2 suits or blazers
• 2 dress pants (match with blazers)
• 4 dress shirts
• 2 ties, belts and cufflinks
• 1 pair of very comfortable walking shoes 

What to Pack in Your British Isle Cruise Carry-On Bag

A large carry-on bag is essential for your British isle Cruise. You should bring a small roller luggage that you can take on board with you and store in the overhead compartment on airplanes. This is because your checked luggage will not be delivered to your stateroom right away on the first day of the cruise. It may take a few hours for your luggage to arrive. Therefore, you should pack your first day essentials in your carry-on bag. Here are some items that I suggest you pack in your carry-on bag.

Lysol Wipes

I like to sanitize my cabin the moment I get in, so I always keep a pack of lysol wipes in my carry on bag. 

Definitely bring your medication in your carry-on bag. My son is allergic to peanuts and I always pack his epipen and allergy medication in the carry-on bag.

Book, Electronics and Toys

There will be some downtime on the first day. If you are cruising with kids, you will need electronics and toys to keep them entertained. I like to bring my book with me just in case.

Toiletry Bag

I always pack my toiletry bag in my carry on so I have access to my face soap if I want to freshen up.

British Cruise Packing List

Get your free British Isle cruise packing list , it’s a one page PDF printable to help you with your cruise packing!

If you need to book shore excursion tours for your British Isle Cruise, a great platform to book tours is with viator .

Check out these cruise packing lists with free printables

Alaska cruise packing list

Caribbean cruise packing list

Mediterranean cruise packing list

Mexico cruise packing list

Bermuda Cruise Packing List

25 Things People Forget to Pack on their Cruise

42 Banned Items you can’t take on a cruise

Check out: Cruise without Seasickness: Genius Tricks You Need to Know

Check out: How Cruise Lines Trick You Into Spending More Money: 12 Sneaky Ways

The post How to Pack Like a Pro: British Isle Cruise (Free Packing List) appeared first on Suburbs 101 .