cruise travel necessities

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Cruise packing list: 56 essentials chosen by experts.

This cruise packing list includes all of the essentials – plus items you didn't know you needed.

Essentials to Pack for a Cruise

Packing for any trip takes some planning, but cruise vacations present a unique challenge – particularly due to limited stateroom storage space and sparse (or overpriced) options for purchasing accidentally forgotten items.

To help you decide what to pack for a cruise, we've curated a list of essentials recommended by cruise experts who regularly sail the high seas. Download the U.S. News Cruise Packing List pictured above to reference while you pack, and read on to learn more about the recommended items and where you can purchase them if needed.

• For packing and planning
• For travel and embarkation day
• For the cabin
• For the ship and shore excursions

Find your perfect cruise

Carry-on bag

Regardless of whether you bring checked luggage, you'll need some type of carry-on bag . Since checked bags need to go through security as they do at airports – and because you may need to wait for your stateroom to be ready, just like at a hotel – you'll want to be able to access any necessities pre-cruise. These might include a swimsuit, sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat for the pools; medications; a bottle of water; and your smartphone, of course. You'll also want to keep your credit card , passport, and any other important documentation or valuables close by. A carry-on backpack works especially well since it can double as a day bag for shore excursions.

Checked bag

While you'll likely want to bring a checked bag, consider sharing one with your ship mate(s) to maximize stateroom storage space. Or, consider bringing medium-sized luggage, such as the The Medium by Away , for checking in.

Read: The Best Checked Luggage Options

Garment bag

Courtesy of Halfday

While many cruises are less formal these days, a garment bag can still be handy for keeping select garments wrinkle-free (since clothing irons are prohibited on cruise ships). Top-rated options include the The Garment Duffel by Halfday and the Briggs and Riley Baseline 22" Carry-On 2-Wheel Garment Bag , both of which double as traditional luggage. If you pack your luggage right, you can make this your only suitcase, in addition to a carry-on bag.

Packing cubes or vacuum-sealed bags

Packing cubes are one of the best ways to organize your belongings for travel – especially in a tight cruise ship cabin. Top-rated options include the Veken packing cubes on Amazon (usually priced around $20) and all of the Pack-It Sets by Eagle Creek. The Pack-It Starter Set is especially ideal for cruising since it includes a garment folder designed to minimize wrinkles in clothing. Some cruisers also swear by vacuum-sealed bags , even though they can be a bit more tedious to pack.

Carry-on caddy

Ashley Kosciolek, senior cruise writer at The Points Guy, recommends a carry-on caddy , particularly if you're flying to your embarkation point. "I have a fabric sleeve that slides down over the telescoping handle on my carry-on to provide pockets for my passport, phone, coffee – all the things I used to have to juggle during check-in."

Digital luggage scale

The compact Etekcity scale – approximately $10 on Amazon – can weigh bags up to 110 pounds and help you avoid overweight baggage fees.

Bungee cord

"Especially for travelling with the family, I use a bright-green bungee cord to strap multiple pieces of luggage together," says Aaron Saunders, senior editor at Cruise Critic. "It's a lifesaver when boarding trains or disembarking ships, particularly when you ' re maneuvering a stroller and a little one around, too."

Luggage tracker

Courtesy of Apple

A luggage tracker isn't just useful for air travel. Attach one to your checked cruise luggage to see when it has arrived in your stateroom (or if it's stalled at security). Chris Gray Faust, executive editor at Cruise Critic, doesn't go anywhere without her Apple AirTag after her luggage got stuck in Vancouver for over a week last June. "My AirTag use has expanded beyond my checked luggage, too. I also have AirTags in my handbag, my carry-on, my keychain and my wallet."

Cruise insurance

Due to the unpredictable nature of travel, cruise insurance can be a wise purchase ahead of your voyage. Travel policies can cover unforeseen expenses such as trip interruptions and medical emergencies.

While a passport is often required for cruising, rules can vary depending where you're traveling. Determine whether you need a passport for your upcoming cruise ; if you do, triple-check that you have it packed the day of departure.

Credit cards and local currency

When cruising internationally, consider getting small amounts of each country's currency to have on hand in port. Depending where you go, some local markets may only accept their own country's currency, not U.S. dollars or credit cards. It's also nice to leave cash gratuities for cab drivers, tour guides or servers; in the European Union, 1- and 2-euro coins are convenient and appropriate tips. In ports with vendors that do accept credit cards, be sure to carry a Visa or Mastercard , as some shops and restaurants do not take American Express .

RFID wallet

It's important to protect your travel documents with an RFID wallet like the TIGARI Passport Holder or the ZOPPEN RFID Travel Passport Wallet , the latter of which can hold multiple passports for a family. "Thieves and hackers can steal your credit card information just by using skimming devices," explains Jill Schildhouse, a cruise expert and U.S. News contributor who always travels with her RFID wallet. "And because your wallet wasn't even touched, you won't know it happened until you see your credit card statement."

Medications

Pack more than enough of your prescription medications as well as any over-the-counter medicines you'll need, just in case you encounter an itinerary change or travel delay. While some travelers find it easiest to bring personal medicines in their prescription bottles, others find travel pill boxes to be especially helpful for organization. The Sukuos Weekly Pill Organizer is a well-rated option, with detachable boxes for each day as well as compartments for morning and evening medications.

Sheet masks

Since flying can be so drying for the skin, Faust likes to use sheet masks. "My first step the night before I board (because you should always fly in a day early) is to hydrate with a sheet mask (usually from a Korean brand like Ballon Blanc or FaceTory )," she says. "If I'm meeting up with a friend, I bring an extra sheet mask so our trip starts out feeling a bit like a spa day!"

Magnetic hooks

A surprising fact: Cruise ship cabin walls are made of metal, which means you can optimize your storage space by hanging some of your belongings on magnetic wall hooks. The hooks are perfect for holding bulky coats or boots if you're traveling to a colder climate. You can also use them for wet gear on expedition ships and adventure cruises, or for drying out bathing suits after days at the beach or pool. Purchase a set of magnetic hooks for less than $10 on Amazon .

Like hotels, cruise ships can only provide so many hangers. Bring a few extras from home or pick up a pack from your local dollar store. You might also try packable hangers .

Wrinkle release spray

Whether or not you bring a garment bag, a travel-size bottle of wrinkle release spray, such as Downy Wrinkle Releaser spray , is useful to have on board. If you combine a spritz or two with the steam from your shower, you should be able to smooth out some of the wrinkles in your clothing.

Laundry detergent

"If you don't want to pay for laundry service or spend precious time in the self-service laundry room, bring a small bottle of laundry detergent like Woolite to wash key items in the sink: underwear, bras, quick-dry hiking shorts, bathing suits, etc.," recommends Schildhouse. "Every cruise ship shower has a retractable clothesline you can extend to drape the clothes over while they dry. This can also help cut down on the number of items you need to pack."

Over-the-door organizers

Over-the-door organizers with clear or mesh pockets allow you to find your feminine hygiene products, makeup, jewelry and other small items quickly – without having to hunt through multiple drawers or a tight stateroom closet. It's a good idea to purchase a two-pack like this option by Simple Houseware Store (available on Amazon), since you can also use one to store shoes and maximize floor space.

Courtesy of Poo-Pourri

It goes without saying, but to say it anyway: A toilet spray like Poo-Pourri is a must for your cruise packing list. Any smell – pleasant or not – will travel quickly in small staterooms with small bathrooms. Buy a travel-size bottle to keep in your cabin.

Shampoo and conditioner

Cruise experts agree it's best to bring your own shampoo and conditioner in travel-size bottles, as most cruise ships don't provide separate shampoo and conditioner anymore; instead, they offer all-in-one dispensers. Colleen McDaniel, editor-in-chief at Cruise Critic, likes to pack her shampoo and conditioner in the popular Cadence Capsules , noting she also uses them for another essential: sunscreen. "These capsules are easy to fill, never leak and have clear labels, which you can customize," she says.

Wine or Champagne

Most major cruise lines allow each guest to bring one to two bottles of wine or Champagne on board, while some luxury cruise lines allow even more than that. Disney Cruise Line also gives guests the option to bring a six-pack of beer instead of wine or Champagne. Be sure to consult your cruise line's policies when packing for your trip.

If you plan to bring wine or Champagne, you'll likely need a corkscrew . While some cruise lines may prohibit corkscrews, others allow them onboard; check your cruise line's policy before sailing. Bringing wine with a twistable cap may be a good alternative.

Portable humidifier

Cruise ship cabins can feel dry – especially in the colder months. A portable humidifier like the GENIANI Erie (around $25 on Amazon) can provide some relief. At about half a pound, this USB-powered device will fit neatly into your checked bag or carry-on luggage. The travel humidifier features two mist settings and has an automatic shut-off option, plus a night light to help you see around your cabin in the dark.

International travel adapter or converter

You'll likely need a travel adapter, since cruise lines homeported in international locales may have different electrical sockets and voltage strengths than you're used to in the U.S.

McDaniel recommends the OneWorld65 Travel Adapter . "I've used a lot of different travel adapters over the years, but this is my favorite. It charges up to six devices at once, has USB and mini-USB options, and works in over 200 countries," she says. "While many cruise ships have U.S. outlets, most usually also have European outlets. This adapter lets me take advantage of that outlet I'd otherwise ignore." She also notes that while cruise lines are getting better about having more outlets on their ships, it never feels like enough to keep your phone, camera battery, tablet, watch, headphones/earbuds and laptop charged (times two or more if you're traveling with others).

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Sound machine

Cruise experts agree a sound machine can be helpful for blocking out the sound of late-night partiers returning to their staterooms (or your snoring spouse). Schildhouse likes the LectroFan Micro 2 for cruising. "It plays non-looping white noise and doubles as a speaker to play tunes while you get ready for dinner."

Tech organizer

Courtesy of Bagsmart

A tech organizer like the BAGSMART electronics organizer case – available on Amazon for about $20 – can store all your cables, plugs, SD cards and earphones in one zippered, compact bag that will fit easily in your carry-on luggage. Despite its small size, it can also hold bulkier items like a small laptop charging cord.

First-aid kit

A first-aid kit is a good thing to have on hand no matter where you go. You can make your own using supplies you already have at home, or buy a premade first-aid kit on Amazon for about $20. While all cruise ships have medical facilities, it's useful to have these items with you on shore excursions, especially those involving active adventures.

Hand sanitizer

Regularly washing your hands and/or using hand sanitizer is essential to staying healthy while traveling, especially on a cruise ship. Stock up on a few travel-size bottles of hand sanitizer (less than $2 each at Walmart) ahead of your trip. If you're looking for something with less alcohol that's also less drying, check out Babyganics Alcohol-Free Foaming Hand Sanitizer .

If you're a parent, you know that your infant or toddler needs a very specific size – and in some cases brand – of diapers, which may very well be unavailable to you on your cruise ship or in the ports of call. Bring more than enough diapers to play it safe at sea.

Most cruise lines also require that non-toilet-trained infants and toddlers wear swim diapers in the children's water play areas. For the sake of sanitation, kids must be toilet-trained to use the pools on cruise ships.

Many cruisers like to personalize their cabin with stateroom door decor. Not only is it a fun tradition, but decorating the door can make it easier to locate your room, too. You can find lots of fun decor ideas on Pinterest as well as Amazon.

" Duct tape is a life-saver in many situations," says Kosciolek. "I primarily use it to attach my printed luggage tags, but it's also great for mending clothing issues on the fly and fixing broken luggage until you can get it back home."

"As a parent, I like to bring lanyards with sleeves so my kids can wear their keycards and not lose them," says Erica Silverstein, senior cruise editor at The Points Guy. "We hang them on the magnetic hooks I put on the wall, so they don't get lost in the cabin either."

Courtesy of Sea-Band

If you're prone to (or think you may be prone to) motion sickness on cruise ships, put a pair of Sea-Bands on your cruise packing list. These soft wristbands use acupressure to prevent and minimize nausea and vomiting on board, and they are a reusable, drug-free alternative to traditional anti-nausea medications. You can purchase Sea-Bands on Amazon or at most drugstores.

If you need something a bit stronger than Sea-Bands (or to use in conjunction with them), Dramamine remains a tried-and-true solution for both preventing and treating sea sickness. Choose the Less Drowsy formula to avoid getting sleepy, and consider the chewable tablets (dye-free) if traveling with kids who are prone to queasiness. Many travelers like Bonine as a remedy for sea sickness as well.

Mix-and-match clothing

Pack a variety of mix-and-match items, also known as a capsule wardrobe, for your cruise. To do this, choose a base color – black or navy blue – for your wardrobe. Next, pack plain, neutral-colored items, then add a few patterned items to the mix. Remember to include a variety of styles (T-shirts, long-sleeved shirts, pants, shorts, dresses, rompers and jumpsuits) and also consider reversible clothing and outfits that can easily transition from day to night.

Sports jacket or blazer

Adam Coulter, executive editor of Cruise Critic UK & Australia, recommends packing a sports jacket or blazer. "While cruise lines are getting more casual, what happens if you get that last-minute invite to meet the captain, or there's a meet and mingle where you want to look put together? A jacket will always elevate your elegance (even if you're wearing a T-shirt underneath)," he says. If you're in need of a travel blazer, Bluffworks has some well-rated options; the Gramercy , in particular, gets great reviews.

Themed party attire

Some cruise lines host themed voyages or parties on select nights where passengers can dress up to participate in the fun. You'll want to review your cruise itinerary before you go so you're prepared for the festivities. Bring your buccaneer gear if you're sailing aboard Disney Cruise Line; ships host fun events like Pirate Nights, pirate-themed dinners and a "Pirates in the Caribbean" show. On "The Love Boat"-themed cruises offered by Princess Cruises , pack your platform boots, glittery dresses, bell-bottom pants and halter tops for the line's 1970s-inspired disco party on the deck. No matter the theme, you can't go wrong with a couple of captain hats .

Travel wrap

A travel wrap is a versatile accessory that's useful for any trip – even more so on a cruise ship where it can get chilly when the sea breeze picks up. Available in nearly 10 different colors, J.Crew's Oversized Cashmere Wrap is a timeless staple, albeit a bit of an investment; for something less expensive but well rated, try this off-brand pashmina shawl on Amazon .

Packable jacket

Courtesy of Patagonia

If you're cruising to a cold weather destination such as Alaska, you'll need something heavier than a travel wrap, but not so bulky that it requires additional luggage. Consider a packable jacket that folds easily and compactly; travel experts highly recommend the Patagonia Nano Puff Jacket .

Packable hat

If you're headed to the Caribbean or another warm weather destination, you'll want a beach hat to protect your scalp and face from the sun. This packable straw hat by FURTALK (available on Amazon for about $25) is a stylish women's option that features a broader brim and offers UPF 50 sun protection.

Comfortable walking shoes

Courtesy of Allbirds

Even if you never step foot off the ship, there is still plenty of walking to do between bow and stern. Closed-toe shoes or sandals with straps are safer than flimsy flip-flops when boarding a slippery tender into port (if your ship can't dock directly). Check out our recommendations for the most comfortable walking shoes , which include the popular Allbirds Wool Runners and the ECCO Yucatan Sandals .

Water shoes

Depending on your scheduled shore excursions, you might also need a pair of water shoes. For something that's both functional and fashionable, Crocs' Classic Clogs are a good option. While not totally waterproof, the Native Jefferson is a water-friendly, versatile option.

Versatile heels

"Over the years, I've learned that the key to avoiding overpacking is to bring one neutral pair of low heels that match every single eveningwear outfit I've packed – from flowy pants to dresses," says Schildhouse, who loves her Rockport Tabitha 2-Strap Heeled Sandals . "They have a cushioned footbed and shock-absorbing heel so you can dance the night away in the club, and a 3-inch block heel with traction to keep you steady on your feet even if the ship's rocking a bit."

Reusable water bottle

A reusable water bottle is useful for filling up at water and beverage stations on your cruise ship; it's also a necessity for shore excursions.

Bathing suit

Pack a couple of swimsuits for the pools, hot tubs and any shore excursions.

Swim cover-up

Another must-have for your cruise packing list is a swimsuit cover-up or two. These are great for wearing over your bathing suit during days at sea, as well as on excursions – especially if you're going on a Caribbean cruise . Amazon sells a variety of stylish, affordable cover-ups, and you can never go wrong with a classic white button-down shirt .

Dry bags are useful for shore excursions where you're likely to get wet but don't want the same to be true for your phone, camera and other precious items. "I use the Outdoor Research Unisex Dry Isolation Pack   and have never had so much as a drop of moisture enter it, which is important for me – it keeps my cameras, documents and important items from getting wet," says Saunders, adding that it functions as a great everyday backpack when it's not raining.

If you need more than one dry bag, cruise expert Brittany Chrusciel recommends the Sea to Summit Lightweight Dry Bag Set . "Having these dry bags, in a variety of sizes, means I can bring all my gear along during a Zodiac cruise or snorkeling excursion without having to worry about it getting wet."

Waterproof phone case

A waterproof phone case is also essential, especially if you plan to take photos. The Hiearcool Waterproof Phone Pouches (available in a two-pack) come with a lanyard so you can both protect your phone and wear it around your neck. They are compatible with most smartphones.

"I like to bring collapsible pails, small shovels , inflatable beach toys, a floppy Frisbee or other things to entertain the kids on the beach if we're going to a private island or beach destination," says Silverstein. "If you can inflate your own inner tube, you don't need to rent a floating mat."

Beach towel

"Although cruise lines provide guests with towels to take off the ship on excursions, they are often bulky and sometimes small," explains Chrusciel. "The Surfer Towel folds up to nearly nothing, so it takes up almost no room in your suitcase and is super convenient to pack in a day bag. What's more, its quick-drying technology means that the lightweight fabric won't be soaking wet when you need to pack up for the day and head back to the ship."

Towel clips

"Even though giant plastic towel clips shaped like a flamingo are a bit cringey, they make it easy to find your spot in a sea of sun loungers," says Chrusciel. "They also solve a common cruise problem: keeping your towel securely fixed to your chair while reading or sunbathing."

Reef-safe sunscreen

Courtesy of Badger

When choosing a sunscreen, look for something that's reef-safe; not only are these sunscreens safer for the environment, but they're also better for you . The active ingredients in reef-safe sunscreens, also known as mineral sunscreens, are zinc oxide, titanium dioxide or a combination of both. Top-rated mineral sunscreen brands include Think , Badger and Raw Elements , all of which also sell lip balm with sunscreen (another essential at sea).

After-sun lotion

You'll want an extra dose of moisturizer if you've been basking in the sun. COOLA makes an after-sun body lotion that cools and hydrates the skin with aloe vera, agave and lavender oil. Previous buyers rave about this lotion, noting they appreciate that the scent isn't overpowering.

A good book

Sea days are the perfect time to kick back and relax with a book you've been meaning to read. Find an oceanfront lounge chair in a shaded area on the pool deck, or grab a cup of tea and settle into a quiet nook indoors. There's no need to pack more than one book, however, as many cruise ships have libraries.

What not to pack for a cruise

Power strip.

Many cruise lines do not permit power strips as they present a fire hazard, while others allow them as long as they are non-surge-protected. Instead of a power strip, purchase a portable charger such as this highly rated one by Anker , which can power up multiple devices at once. This can be especially useful for shore excursions. When packing for your cruise, also think about your luggage: If it has an included charging port, you may not even need to purchase an additional charging block.

Weapons and restraints

Firearms, handcuffs and the like are not permitted on cruise ships. This rule also includes toy guns on most cruise lines.

While most major cruise lines allow guests to pack a limited amount of wine or Champagne per person, they do not permit hard liquor. Of course, those of age can purchase cocktails at any of the bars on board.

Household appliances

Irons and steamers are not permitted on cruise ships, which is why the aforementioned garment bags, wrinkle release spray and packing cubes are recommended for keeping clothing tidy and neat. Coffee makers and mug warmers are also prohibited.

While you can technically bring you own, it's not necessary as hairdryers are available in every bathroom on most ships.

CBD and marijuana

CBD that's derived from hemp and contains 0.3% THC or less is legal at a federal level. However, each state interprets and enforces this law differently; for example, many states require a prescription for it. Due to the ambiguity of the laws, most cruise lines continue to ban CBD in any form.

Marijuana remains illegal under U.S. federal law, which means you cannot bring it on a cruise ship – even if you're legally able to purchase it in your home state for recreational or medical use.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

For the U.S. News Cruise Packing List, travel writers Gwen Pratesi and Amanda Norcross tapped leading industry experts for their cruise essentials. They regularly update this checklist with new and useful items to pack.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Cruise Lines
• The Best Adults-Only Cruises
• The Best All-Inclusive Cruises

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THE Cruise Packing Checklist: 85 Items To Bring (Printable)

Searching for a cruise packing checklist you can trust? Look no further. The staff at Cruzely has taken cruises from Miami to Vancouver, including trips done solo, as a couple, and with a family.

In other words, when it comes to packing for a cruise, nobody has the expertise — and the experience — that we do.

And if you think packing for a regular vacation can be daunting, then try packing for life on the ship.

What’s so challenging about cruise packing? Well, when you cruise you have some unique situations that you don’t find on any other vacation.

First, you have so many different scenarios to pack for . Sure you might think that it’s tossing some shorts and a swimsuit into a suitcase. On a cruise, however, you’re hanging out by the pool in a swimsuit, dressing up for dinner, wearing casual clothes to the buffet, and putting on something warm for a show in the theater.

In other words, you need to pack for a lot of different situations.

Second, in the middle of the ocean it’s tough to run out for anything that you forgot . Yes, you can wait until you get to port to pick up things you meant to bring, but that’s not always convenient. And while the ship will have some sort of small shop you can purchase things you forgot, these spots are notorious for being expensive for basic items (seriously, we’ve seen an $18 bottle of cold medicine).

That’s why we’ve put together this packing checklist for your next cruise. It covers everything that you might need to bring, all broken down into easy sections. It’s not saying you have to bring everything on the list, but it offers up a lot of ideas that you’ll want to consider.

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 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.

While many items on the list are self-explanatory, we go into more detail below about what’s included on the checklist for your cruise.

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 on a cruise, it’s helpful to bring a little bit of everything.

Of course, how much you’ll bring depends on how many days you’ll be at sea. Shorter cruises obviously require fewer items. Also, 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 every two days of your cruise)
• Long pants (at least one pair for nights on the ship)
• Long-sleeve shirt (at least one for nights on the ship)
• Swimsuit (At least two, so that one can dry when you wear the other)
• Swimsuit cover-up
• Light jacket or hoodie (evenings on the ship can be cool)
• Sleep clothes
• Athletic shorts
• Flip-flops (be sure they have tread; wet decks can be slippery)

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
• Jewelry/accessories

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 (alarm on the phone is just fine)
• “ Poopouri ” (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 go smoothly. This includes everything from your boarding documents to your toothbrush.

• Boarding documents
• Luggage tags
• Passport/birth certificate
• Copy of passport/birth certificate (carry a copy of your passport with you in port; keep the original in the cabin safe)
• 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
• Phone charger
• Waterproof phone case
• 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; do not flush wipes)

Cruise Packing Checklist: Kids Items

Obviously not everyone packs for a cruise with kids. But 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)
• Swim diapers
• 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
• Snorkel gear
• Water shoes

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.

• Wine/champagne ( a bottle or two is allowed )
• Non-alcoholic drinks ( if allowed by your cruise line )
• Towel clips
• Wristwatch (set to the ship’s time when leaving for port)
• Lanyard (for holding your room keycard)
• Books/magazines
• 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)
• Clothing iron
• Weapons (including small knives and pepper spray)

Cruise Packing Tips: Beyond the Checklist

As we’ve mentioned, packing for a cruise is a little different than any other vacation. While you need to prepare for lots of different situations — everything from hanging out by the pool to formal night — we actually think it can be easier to pack for a cruise than other trips. That’s because the rules for packing are more relaxed than if you are flying for a vacation.

Luggage Rules Are Fairly Simple Want to bring a large suitcase? Or two large suitcases? Or two carry-ons and several large bags? It’s all ok. The luggage rules surrounding cruises are nothing like you’ll find with airlines. Cruises don’t charge for luggage and there are no weight limits (within reason) .

In short, you can bring as much as you want. That’s one less thing to worry about when packing for your cruise and very convenient for passengers who are driving to the port.

Remember You Have to Carry Everything to the Ship While the rules surrounding luggage mean you can bring as much as you want, remember that whatever you bring, you will have to get it to and from the port. So if you are flying to the cruise port, then you’ll have to pay any baggage fees your airline might charge. You also have to carry your bags to the terminal to drop off for the luggage handlers.

Instead, keeping your bags manageable will save you a lot of hassle when you head to the ship.

Liquids Are OK Another way cruise packing is easier is that there aren’t rules regarding liquid sizes. You likely know that airlines limit you to three ounces of liquids to get through security. There are no such limits with cruise security .

So if you have a bottle of your favorite shampoo you want to bring or simply have an 8-ounce bottle of sunscreen, go ahead and pack it. There is no need to put it into smaller travel-sized containers.

Keep Anything for the First Day in Your Carry-On You don’t have to check any bags at the port if you don’t want. If you can carry it with you to your cabin, you are welcome to take it aboard. Still, many people choose to check larger or heavier bags instead of carrying those by themselves. It’s just easier. These bags are then delivered to your room later in the afternoon or evening.

If you check a bag, be sure to bring a carry-on that has anything in it you might need for the first day. So you’ll want a change of clothes, swimsuit, toiletries, boarding documents, and any valuables. If you bring on wine or champagne, also pack it in your carry-on so that it doesn’t accidentally get broken.

For more things to pack, don’t miss our 39 Useful Things to Pack for a Cruise (Including 17 You Might Not Think Of) .

Popular: 39 Useful Things to Pack (17 You Wouldn't Think Of)

Read next: park & cruise hotels for every port in america, popular: 107 best cruise tips, secrets, tricks, and freebies.

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Thank you – this was very helpful – much appreciated!!!

That’s very good information 👌

Great list – getting ready for a cruise in May. Question, can you bring two bottles of wine or just one. Thanks for the tips.

Depends on the cruise line. In general, however, if you are traveling with two adults, you can bring two bottles of wine.

Thank you so much! This is a super helpful list!

quit telling people to bring wipes! THEY ARE NOT FLUSHABLE AND WILL CLOG THE SYSTEM AND FLOOD.

Nobody said to flush them. You place them in the trash.

Very useful tips for someone (like me) going on their first cruise.

This information was very helpful.

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Cruise packing list: The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise

Packing for a cruise can be complicated, especially for first-timers who aren't 100% sure what to expect. The task is made even more stressful because you can't run to the nearest shopping mall to pick up something you forgot when you're sailing in the middle of the ocean.

What you need is a cruise packing list that accounts for cruise line dress codes for daywear and evening wear, the various activities you'll do on board and in port, the gear you need for travel and to enhance your cruise cabin, and the necessities you need for daily life and unexpected emergencies.

For more cruise guides, news and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

We've listed 103 essentials you should always pack for any cruise vacation. Follow our cruise packing list to avoid packing mistakes and be prepared for anything on your next sailing.

Daytime clothing

When packing for a cruise, start with the basics: what you plan to wear each day.

On every cruise line, daytime clothing is casual, and on a big-ship cruise, nearly anything goes. On a more upscale or luxury cruise ship, casual daywear tends to be more fashion-forward and stylish, so you might feel out of place in your cheap tee from Target.

Of course, the destination and weather will dictate what exactly makes it onto your cruise packing list. For a Caribbean cruise , you'll want plenty of beachwear; for an Alaska cruise , you'll want rugged clothes for hiking and warm layers for the frequently changing weather. In the Middle East and Asia, you might need an outfit that covers the shoulders and knees for visiting religious sites.

Remember that any destination can be unseasonably warm, cold or wet, so pack a jacket for that Bahamas cruise or a short-sleeved top for an Arctic sailing — just in case.

If you want to stay fit on your cruise and plan to hit the onboard gym or go biking in port, pack activewear. I once forgot to pack socks on a short warm-weather cruise and was disappointed when I wasn't allowed on the ship's bungee trampoline.

Related: The 10 wildest attractions you'll find on a cruise ship

Cruisers traveling in a group should consider planning matching outfits, especially if they wish to take group photos on board. Group T-shirts are common, as are color-coordinated outfits for everyone from the kids to the grandparents.

Most important of all: Double-check that you've packed underwear. You're welcome.

Pack one outfit for every day, or plan to do laundry on your cruise ship . I like to look for ways to reuse pieces to save space. For example, I'll dress up a top with a skirt or dress pants for dinner, then wear the same shirt with jeans in port the following day. Or, I'll bring one solid color dress and wear it twice, but with different accessories.

Here's your daywear packing list (adjust numbers for the length of your sailing):

• Casual tops
• Workout wear
• Bathing suits and swimwear
• Cover-up or swim shirt
• Sweatshirt or sweater

Evening clothing

Some cruise lines, such as Norwegian Cruise Line , have a relaxed attitude toward dinner attire, and you can come as you are. Other lines, especially the more upscale ones, have strict dress codes for dinner. For cruises on those ships, you'll need to add some nicer outfits to your cruise packing list.

Evening wear on cruise ships tends to fall into two categories: resort casual and elegant. For casual nights, think of a date-night style. Some cruise lines do allow jeans in the evening; pair them with cute tops and nice shoes.

Elegant or formal nights bring out cocktail dresses, suits, ties and jackets. If formalwear is not your thing, choose room service, or go to the buffet or a casual restaurant for dinner to skip dressing up. Some luxury cruise lines will not allow underdressed passengers into certain restaurants or entertainment venues on formal nights.

Related: Cruise ship restaurant nirvana: The best meals you can have at sea

Pro tip: Many cruise ships turn up the air conditioning at night. Pack a light sweater or dressy shawl to keep you comfortable in cool onboard restaurants and theaters.

Don't forget to pack outfits for cruise ship theme nights. Popular themes include white night, pirate night and Halloween — and, yes, cruisers do go all-out with costumes. Check with your cruise line to see which parties or theme nights will take place, and then pack accordingly.

Consider an eye patch or swashbuckling hat for Disney Cruise Line 's Pirate Night, a white sundress for Norwegian Cruise Line's White Hot Night and some neon leggings for Carnival Cruise Line 's '80s night.

Definitely don't forget the ultimate evening wear — comfy pajamas — especially if you're sharing a cabin with family or friends.

Here's your eveningwear packing list:

• Skirt and blouse
• Wrap or sweater
• Button-down shirt or polo
• Dress slacks or nice jeans
• Suit or tuxedo for formal night
• Cocktail dress or gown for formal night
• Theme cruise attire and costumes

It's easy to fill a carry-on with footwear alone when packing for a cruise. The must-have basic is a comfortable pair of travel shoes for the flight, ship and walking in port.

Other types of footwear to add to your cruise packing list are sneakers for athletic activities, flip-flops for the pool and beach, and dress shoes for dinner. (Ladies, try to match your outfits, so you only need to bring one pair of heels.) You might also want casual or athletic sandals, hiking boots or water shoes for rocky beaches.

Related: 13 things you should do before every cruise

Pro tip: Lay out all the pairs of shoes you think you need for the cruise, and then decide which shoes can do double duty and which you can leave at home. For example, on a Caribbean cruise, a sturdy pair of waterproof athletic sandals (like Keens) can multi-task as travel shoes, beach shoes and rugged activity footwear. A comfy pair of flats can pair with your casual daywear and your fancy evening attire.

Here's your footwear packing list:

• Sneakers or comfortable walking shoes
• Water shoes
• Hiking boots
• Dress shoes for the evening
• Slippers for in-cabin use

Accessories and gear

Once you've packed all the clothing, it's time to accessorize.

For sunny days, men and women will want to bring hats and sunglasses. On cold-weather cruises, you'll need a warm beanie, scarf, gloves and waterproof gear. (Antarctica and Arctic cruises have unique packing lists, so check with your cruise line.)

Related: 20 must-have cruise items — including a roll of duct tape

Don't forget belts, jewelry and ties for evening dress. Have a little fun with it — you're on a cruise.

Don't forget to add these accessories to your cruise packing list:

• Wide-brimmed sun hat or baseball hat
• Rain jacket and/or pants
• Pashmina or shawl

Toiletries and medicine

Like hotels, cruise ships typically provide soap and shampoo in your cabin. Some also offer conditioner and body lotion. However, it's hard to know whether your hair will respond well to the onboard products or if you'll hate the scent.

It's always safer to pack your own toiletries. Bring more than you think you'll need because it may be hard to find your favorite brands in foreign ports, and cruise ships sell necessities at inflated prices. (Here are a few more things you should never buy on a cruise ship or in port .)

Although you'll find hand sanitizer stations throughout your cruise ship, you'll still want to pack your own.

Sunscreen is essential; look for reef-safe versions if you plan on swimming in the ocean. Bug spray is also useful, especially in Alaska, where people joke that the mosquito is the state bird.

Related: 21 tips and tricks that will make your first cruise go smoothly

It's always smart to pack a first aid kit for your cruise; make sure it contains seasickness remedies if you're sensitive to the motion of the ocean. Over-the-counter medications are pricey on board, so bring the brands you most commonly use. If you take prescription medicine, bring enough for the trip and a few extra days' worth, just in case.

Pack these toiletries and medications for your cruise, preferably in your carry-on bag:

• Shampoo and conditioner
• Hair-styling products
• Toothpaste and toothbrush
• Glasses, contacts and contact lens solutions
• Razor and shaving cream
• Moisturizer
• Body lotion
• Lip balm (consider one with SPF protection)
• Soap (if you're picky about scents or ingredients)
• Feminine products
• Hand sanitizer (gel or wipes)
• Seasickness remedies (patches, pills, ginger candies and acupressure wristbands)
• Pain-relief medication, such as Tylenol or ibuprofen
• Allergy medication
• Upset stomach medication

Travel gear

Not all of us are lucky enough to live an hour or two from a cruise port. Many cruisers have to fly or road trip to their departure port and need to pack for this travel as well. Make sure your cruise packing list accounts for your pre- and post-cruise travel needs, as well as items useful for your time on board.

For long and overnight flights to your cruise, pack accessories for the plane. If you've scheduled a pre-cruise hotel stay, consider packing the necessities for that overnight in a separate bag so you don't need to unpack and repack your main suitcase.

Related: 10 must-have travel accessories for less than $15

You'll want to pack your tablet, portable video game system and e-reader for both your pre-cruise travel and the sailing itself. Don't forget all the related charging cables. Or, skip the tech and bring a few books, as many cruise ships no longer offer onboard libraries.

It should go without saying, but you are responsible for packing necessary travel documents, including your cruise/flight/tour tickets, passport book or passport card (or birth certificate) and visa paperwork. Do not put these items in your checked bags. Pack them in your carry-on so they're always on hand and less likely to go missing.

I'm a fan of bringing a day bag for carrying things around the ship (like toting my book, water bottle and cover-up to the Lido Deck pool) and a small purse for carrying my key card, lipstick and tissues at night. Some folks prefer to bring a lanyard to keep their cruise room key card close at hand.

If you like to walk about with your morning coffee or tea, you can't get a to-go cup at the buffet unless you're paying extra for a latte or espresso. Pack a travel coffee mug so you can fill up on the free stuff. I also recommend bringing a reusable water bottle and filling it up at the buffet or even a bar. It helps reduce plastic waste, and you don't bust your budget buying bottled water.

• Neck pillow
• Noise-canceling headphones
• Regular headphones or earbuds
• Tablet or laptop
• Portable video game system
• Playing cards or other small diversions
• E-reader or physical books
• Visa documents
• Cruise ticket or documents
• Travel insurance information
• Tour booking information
• Small purse
• Water bottle

Cabin enhancements

First-time cruisers don't realize all the cruise ship cabin hacks they can employ to enhance their onboard accommodations. Usually, all you need to pack are a few key items from home.

Many cruise cabin walls and doors are magnetic (Did I just blow your mind?), so I like to pack magnets both as fun decor and for organizational purposes. Magnetic clips and hooks can help keep paperwork and hats off the in-room desk and couch, while a magnetic whiteboard can be useful for leaving notes for your travel companions.

Newer cruise ships are designed so every cabin has enough electrical outlets and USB ports conveniently located throughout the room. However, older cruise ships have a sad lack of outlets. Unless you want to constantly battle your travel companions for charging priority, pack a power strip, multi-prong outlet or power adapter/current converter so you can charge multiple devices at once (and use any 220V European outlets in the cabin).

Just be sure that your power strip doesn't include a surge protector; those are banned from most cruise ships, as are extension cords.

Related: Packing for a cruise? These items aren't allowed on board

For evenings on board, pack a night light or battery-operated candles so you can find your way to the bathroom in the dark. A small, portable sound machine is helpful for blocking out hallway noise if your cabin is in a noisy area of the ship, such as close to the elevator banks.

You can sweeten your cabin bathroom by bringing a bathroom spray to mask unpleasant odors. Traveling with babies and toddlers who hate showers? A small inflatable kiddie pool or tub packs down small and can be used to give your little one a bath.

You don't need to pack a clothesline to dry wet items because one is usually hidden in your cabin's shower. However, I do recommend bringing a laundry bag or pop-up hamper to keep dirty clothes separate and off the cabin floor. Chair clips are useful if you plan to dry your clothes on the balcony and don't want them to blow away.

Related: 6 reasons you'll want to book a balcony cabin on your next cruise

Pack these items to enhance our cruise cabin:

• Power strip or multi-pronged outlet without surge protection
• Power converter
• Night light
• Battery-operated candles
• White noise machine
• Bathroom spray
• Inflatable kiddie pool
• Pop-up hamper or laundry bag
• Chair clips

Port day gear

You'll want to pack items specific to the activities you aim to do in port. Leave room on your cruise packing list for items that will change based on your destination and planned tours.

No matter where you cruise, you'll want a strong but lightweight backpack to stow everything you want to take off the ship with you. I love the kind with mesh pockets on the side to tuck away a water bottle.

In especially scenic destinations, such as Alaska or Scandinavia, you might want to bring binoculars and/or a DSLR camera (rather than relying on your phone for photos). Don't forget accessories like extra batteries, chargers and memory cards.

On beachy cruises, you'll want a beach bag, sand toys for the kids and perhaps your own snorkeling gear. Wet bags (or even plastic zip-top bags) will keep your wet stuff from leaking onto everything on your way back to the ship.

Related: 8 must-pack accessories for your next beach vacation

For water sports like kayaking, consider a dry bag to stow your camera gear, smartphone and wallet and prevent them from getting wet. Waterproof cases for your cellphone and camera are also useful, as well as "beach wallets" that let you go into the water with your credit cards and cash on your person.

• Camera, memory cards, portable tripod and other accessories
• Waterproof dry bag
• Waterproof phone and/or camera case
• Waterproof beach wallet
• Snorkel, mask and fins
• Beach toys for kids (such as packable pails and inflatable floats)
• Retractable hiking poles
• Packaged snacks (such as protein or granola bars) for long excursions
• Lightweight packable travel towels if you want something that folds up smaller than the bulky cruise ship beach towels

Miscellaneous items to pack for your cruise

Some must-pack items for cruises defy categorization but are important nonetheless. Don't leave them off your cruise packing list.

Cruise lines have strict rules about what types of beverages and alcohol you can bring on a cruise ship . If you're picky about wine, many lines will let you bring on a 750 ml bottle or two. Pack your favorite, but be prepared to pay a corkage fee if you drink it at an onboard bar or restaurant.

If you plan to purchase wine in port to bring home, you'll also want to pack bubble wrap or wine protector bags to get your bottles home safely.

Some lines, such as Holland America and Carnival, also allow you to bring on a limited number of cans of nonalcoholic drinks such as soda, juice or seltzer water. This can cut down on your bar bill or fuel your Diet Coke obsession should your ship carry only Pepsi.

I'm sure I don't need to remind anyone to bring their cell phone on vacation (but remember to pack the charging cables). However, you might not know to download your cruise line's app before you leave home. The app will show you the daily schedule, deck plans, dining reservations, shore excursion options and more. Many apps, like the one from Celebrity Cruises , even allow you to chat with other passengers while you're connected to the cruise ship's internet . (Remember to keep your devices in airplane mode to avoid accruing large at-sea roaming charges.)

You'll want cash, especially small bills, for tipping porters and purchasing small souvenirs in port. Depending on your itinerary, you might want to acquire some foreign currency in advance. Otherwise, you can use an ATM once you arrive in port. (ATMs almost always offer a better exchange rate than airport kiosks.)

Bring a credit card that does not charge foreign transaction fees, so you don't spend more than you need to abroad. (If you don't have one, consider applying for one of the best credit cards for travel .)

What not to pack for a cruise

Now that you know what to put on your cruise packing list, you'll also want to know what to leave out. Some items you might be tempted to pack are outright banned by the cruise lines . Others simply aren't necessary.

Here's what you can leave out of your suitcase.

• Linens and towels
• Hand soap (unless you're picky)
• High chair and portable crib (your ship will provide these)
• Coffeemakers and other appliances with heating elements
• Illegal drugs (including marijuana and CBD products, even if they're legal in your home state or departure port)
• Extension cords
• Beverages beyond the modest allotment of wine or nonalcoholic drinks in cans
• Meat, cheese, fruit or other non-prepackaged food (check with your cruise line if you have dietary restrictions and require special food items)

Bottom line

Many cruisers tend to overpack when it comes to clothes and shoes but sometimes forget about other necessities. When you take your suitcase out of the closet and begin packing for your next itinerary, refer to this list and be sure you're covered when it comes to both clothing and those all-important accessories.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• Top ways cruisers waste money
• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

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The Only Cruise Packing List You’ll Ever Need

By Elissa Garay

Last updated: June 4th, 2024

• Find a Cruise

The task of packing for a cruise can feel daunting, given all of the special considerations—there could be temperature variations between ports of call, there are onboard dress codes to adhere to, and different types of shipboard activities and shore excursions that you can sign up for.

And, of course, destination consideration comes into play. A cruise packing list for an active, outdoorsy cruise to Alaska is going to look a lot different than one for a laid-back beach trip to the Caribbean , or for a sophisticated city-hopper sailing in the Mediterranean.

Have no fear: our expert-compiled cruise packing list will make sure you’re the savviest passenger at sea—and the best dressed one, to boot. After all, you want to spend your precious time in port shopping for spectacular souvenirs—not some forgotten sundries.

And remember that the beauty of a cruise vacation is that once you get everything into your bag, you only have to unpack one time after boarding the ship. So simply zip through this comprehensive list of things to pack for a cruise, and you’ll be packed like a pro and ready to go in no time.

What clothing, shoes, and accessories do I need to pack for a cruise?

A cruise vacation covers a lot of ground, which means you’ll need a lot of flexibility with your wardrobe, too. You can generally count on transitioning from daywear to smart casual on one or two nights per cruise and Evening Chic aboard the ship.

You should also be able to segue from a fun-in-the-sun beach outing to a rainy-day city walking tour with ease.

Consult the weather forecasts closely in the days leading up to your trip, and think in terms of layers and mix-and-match ensembles to make sure your suitcase doesn’t burst at the seams.

Don’t be afraid to recycle your more gently worn outfits—rest assured that your fellow cruisers will be none the wiser if you don the same pieces twice. Remember that there’s an onboard launderette and a laundry service, too.

Read: Expert Cruise Packing Tips

Undergarments & Sleepwear

Start off with the basics. As for any trip, don’t leave home without your underwear, socks (both athletic and dress socks), and bras/undershirts as the base for any day’s dress. You’ll want comfy pajamas to cozy up in after a long day spent exploring in port, too.

Casual Daywear

For laid-back days spent walking around the ship or port, you’ll want to have a good selection of comfortable and casual clothing.

Check the weather, and stick to a cruise packing list with a good selection of shorts, jeans/khakis, sundresses/skirts, T-shirts (both long- and short-sleeved) and tank tops.

Remember that if you’re visiting churches, mosques, or other religious sites on your adventures ashore, it’s expected that shoulders and bare legs are covered.

Smart Casual Evenings

Most nights, the dress code is smart casual, which means you look comfortable yet tasteful in anything from a skirt or dress to long pants, chic jeans, and a stylish top or button-down.

Evening Chic

Some evenings take on a dressier air aboard the ship, so be sure to consult with the dress code to make sure you’re dressed appropriately.

On Celebrity’s polished Evening Chic nights, you’ll have the chance to dress to impress with your own interpretation of glamor and sophistication. This might be a cocktail dress, a skirt, slacks, designer jeans with a blazer, or an elegant top.

There’s no requirement to pack a tuxedo or formal gown, although some guests love doing this for the sense of occasion. A suit and tie is welcome for Evening Chic nights, but is by no means essential.

Celebrity’s sailings of seven nights or longer have two nights designated as Evening Chic, while shorter cruises have one. All other days permit Smart Casual attire in the evenings.

Study the weather forecast and be sure to bring along climate-appropriate outerwear. When you’re packing for an Alaska cruise , for instance, you’ll almost certainly need lots of layers, with waterproof outerwear, winter hats, and gloves on hand.

You might have to throw in a sweater or sweatshirt on your packing list for a Caribbean cruise , and the same goes for a spring or fall stroll in a Mediterranean port.

Don’t forget sun hats and baseball caps for sunny days out on deck or in port, while a dressy scarf or shawl to drape over your shoulders is a good accessory for sophisticated evenings aboard the ship.

Beachwear & Activewear

Whether you’re splashing around on the pool deck or beachside, you’ll want to bring along at least a couple of swimsuits so they can dry between uses.

Cover-ups offer added protection on sun-kissed days, as well as an easy transition in attire from swimming to grabbing a bite to eat poolside or in the Oceanview Café at lunchtime.

Keep in mind that ships are equipped with gyms and outdoor tracks, fitness classes abound, and many ports welcome runners, kayakers, bikers, and other active types. There’s no need to skip out on your fitness regime if you don’t want to, so bring along your activewear, too.

You’ll want comfortable walking shoes for long excursions in port, whether it’s a pair of sneakers or comfy flats.

Sandals and flip-flops are must-haves for pool and beach days, while more elegant shoes are de rigueur for fancier evening dinners on board. Flip flops aren’t allowed in the main dining rooms and speciality restaurants in the evenings.

If the weather is going to be very rainy, the beaches rocky, or if there are mountains you’re looking to climb, be sure to bring along appropriate footwear, too, like rain boots, water shoes, or hiking boots.

Accessories

Don’t forget the trimmings! Bring some jewelry if you like, though, as with any trip, you’ll want to leave your best pieces at home. Though staterooms have safes, you’d be wise not to flash expensive baubles in some ports around the world.

A wristwatch is key, especially when cruising between time zones (so you won’t stress about missing the ship while out on an excursion), while an umbrella or poncho can help save a rainy day.

Topping your cruise packing list should be your eyeglasses and sunglasses. Do be sure to bring along some protective cases to help keep them intact during all of your travels.

Once you get the luggage unloaded, you’ll want some smaller bags on hand for the many adventures that await during the course of your cruise.

A daypack and/or beach bag is essential for toting items while in port, as well as whatever purse you want to use on board in the evenings.

Adding a collapsible tote to your list of things to pack for a cruise is a good strategy to help carry any extra souvenirs you might acquire along the way.

Other handy add-ons include ziplock bags (for waterproof storage and organization), and a wet bag (for snorkel gear and trips to the beach).

A top tip for embarkation day is to pack a day bag with essentials. With swimwear, flip flops, cover-up, and sunblock in hand, rather than in your checked baggage, you can head straight for the pool once you’re onboard and let the vacation begin.

Bring a bag for dirty laundry along. If you are on a longer sailing, consider taking advantage of the onboard laundry service rather than overpacking.

What hygiene products do I need to pack for a cruise?

Apart from clothing, shoes, and accessories, you’ll want your stateroom bathroom and vanity well-stocked with all of your favorite personal hygiene products from home.

While your stateroom will come stocked with premium bath amenities, you might want to bring travel-sized bottles of your preferred products, too.

Other cruise packing list must-haves include a facial cleanser, moisturizer, deodorant, shaving supplies, lip balm, Q-tips, and cotton balls/pads.

Pack a toothbrush, toothpaste, dental floss, and mouthwash, too. Contact lens wearers should bring all the related gear (including a case and solution), and a pair of tweezers and a nail file and/or clippers will surely come in handy, too.

In the case of emergency, you can always restock most of these items from the onboard shops or from a drugstore in port.

Hair & Makeup Products

Hair can sometimes require extra taming when coming in from a day at the beach or a windy sea day up on deck. Be prepared with all the hairstyling products, accessories, and tools you need, as well as a brush/comb, too.

Hairdryers are provided in each stateroom, and all Celebrity ships have an onboard salon should you wish to try a new look.

Bring along your makeup (and don’t forget the makeup remover). You might also want a small bottle of perfume or cologne, too.

Health & Safety Products

Cover your health and safety bases by packing any necessities like medications (including seasickness remedies , as needed), pain relievers, vitamins, feminine hygiene products, birth control, and a basic, personalized first-aid kit.

Other things to pack for a cruise include sunscreen (and aloe vera for relief, just in case you miss a spot), as well as insect repellent if you’re sailing somewhere tropical.

Keep hand wipes and sanitizer close on hand to help keep the germs at bay while you’re on the go. Sanitizer is provided all over the ship, too.

What documents do I need to pack for a cruise?

Sure, it’s vacation, but that doesn’t mean you can get by on sunshine and frothy drinks alone. You’ll need some essential documentation and a properly stocked wallet to ensure that everything goes off without a hitch.

Wallet & Money Belt Items

You may want to trade in your wallet for a money belt while on your trip. Whichever route you choose, be sure to bring cash (including small bills for tips ashore), an ATM or debit card, and credit cards.

Tuck away your driver’s license, too (as well as an international driver’s license if you plan on renting a car abroad). Foreign travel also means having a passport on hand that’s stamped with any visas, if necessary.

You’ll also want to have your medical insurance card, as well as any travel insurance information, on you at all times.

Read: Do You Need a Passport for a Cruise?

Documentation & Contact Info

Be sure to bring along key travel documents, like copies of flight and hotel bookings. The cruise line will send you designated luggage tags, too; add those onto your luggage before embarking the ship.

Make sure you have copies of key documentation and information as backup, should anything get lost or stolen on your trip. Keep photocopies separate from the originals, and consider having scanned copies saved somewhere digitally, too.

Also have important phone numbers available (like for credit card companies or emergency contacts back home), as well as the mailing and email addresses for any friends or relatives you might want to write to while away.

It’s also prudent to keep copies of any prescriptions you take, as well as a list of medications and your medical history, should any medical incidents arise.

Travel guides can come in handy to read up on the ports that await you, while a pen and journal will allow you to jot down anything that might come up on the trip—or to document your vacation memories for posterity.

What technology items do I need to pack for a cruise?

These days, all of those electronic gadgets that we love could take up a suitcase all their own! To be digitally entertained and easily catch up with emails and news back home, keep your cell phone and laptop (or tablet) high on your cruise packing list.

Your cell phone might be all you need to take pictures, listen to music, and have an alarm clock for the morning. If that’s not the case, you might want to bring along a proper camera (with lenses, memory cards, etc.), music (and a player), and a travel alarm clock.

All those gadgets will need charging, too, so don’t forget those chargers. A power strip (preferably with built-in USB ports) can help ensure that the stateroom has more than enough juice to go around. On Celebrity’s Edge-series ships , you’ll find USB charging ports in your stateroom.

If you’ll be spending a lot of time by the pool and beach, do consider a waterproof phone case to help protect your cell phone. And if you’re staying abroad at a hotel pre- or post-cruise, don’t overlook voltage adapters, as needed.

Finally, if you’re headed somewhere with great wildlife—like Alaska , for instance—a good pair of binoculars is sure to up those wow-factor moments.

What else do I need to pack for a cruise?

There are a few more odds and ends to help ensure that your cruise packing list is seamless. Toting along some favorite snacks, chewing gum, and a reusable water bottle is a smart move to keep you satiated and hydrated on the go, whether at the airport or in port.

Travel aids like earplugs, a travel pillow, and a sleeping mask can help make long flights or car rides more comfy. A pack of travel-sized antibacterial wipes is always a good idea to help wipe down germ-prone surfaces as needed.

Consider bringing along some reading materials for lazy afternoons on your veranda or by the pool, whether you prefer paperback or e-books or magazines.

If you’re headed somewhere with loads of time for sand and surf, you might want to bring along your own snorkel and goggles so that you can set off on snorkeling excursions at whim.

If you’re cruising with kids , there’s a whole world of age-appropriate gear to consider, like diapers, strollers, toys, and games.

Finally, don’t forget to tuck away your house and car keys somewhere safe—you won’t need them until the end of your trip, but you’ll want to be able to find them in a snap when the time comes.

The Ultimate Cruise Packing Checklist

Tick off this handy cruise packing checklist to ensure that all of your vacation essentials make it into your bags. Just note that some of these items will be optional, depending on factors like your cruise destination, duration, weather, and the types of activities you choose on your cruise.

Read: What to Wear on a Cruise

• Socks/stockings
• Undershirts

Casual Attire

• Jeans/khakis
• T-shirts/tank tops
• Sundresses/skirts

Formal Attire

• Dress shirts
• Blazers/suits/tuxedo
• Cocktail dresses/gowns
• Skirts/blouses
• Dressy pantsuits
• Sweaters/sweatshirts
• Coats/jackets/raincoats
• Hats/sun hats
• Scarves/shawls
• Workout clothes/activewear
• Sandals/flip-flops
• Leisure shoes
• Dress shoes
• Specialty footwear (hiking boots/rainboots/water shoes)
• Wristwatches
• Glasses cases
• Umbrella/poncho
• Daypack/beach bag
• Collapsible tote
• Ziplock bags
• Luggage locks
• Laundry bag
• Laundry kit (detergent/wrinkle-release spray/stain remover)
• Dental floss
• Shampoo/conditioner
• Facial cleanser/skincare products
• Moisturizer
• Shaving cream
• Contact lenses/case/solution/eye drops
• Nail file/clippers
• Cotton balls/pads
• Hairstyling tools
• Hairstyling products
• Hair accessories
• Makeup remover
• Perfume/cologne
• Sunscreen/aloe vera
• Insect repellent
• Feminine hygiene products
• Birth control
• Pain relievers
• Medications/vitamins
• First-aid kit
• Seasickness remedies
• Hand sanitizer
• Wallet/money belt with cash/ATM card/credit cards
• Driver’s license/international driver’s license
• Passports/visas
• Medical insurance card
• Travel insurance information
• Travel documents (cruise boarding passes/airline tickets/hotel info/itinerary/etc.)
• Printed/personal luggage tags
• Maps and directions if you don’t have them on your cellphone
• Travel guides/phrase book
• Prescriptions/list of medications/medical history
• Copies of passport/important documents/credit cards/etc.
• Important phone numbers (credit cards/emergency contacts/etc.)
• Addresses/e-mail addresses for friends/relatives
• Small notebook/journal
• Pens/highlighters
• Cell phone and charger
• Laptop/tablet and charger
• Camera/lenses/memory cards/batteries/charger
• Voltage adapters (for international pre-/post-cruise hotels)
• Alarm clock
• Power strip
• Portable speaker
• Waterproof phone case

Miscellaneous

• House/car keys
• Snacks/chewing gum
• Reusable water bottle
• Travel aids (earplugs/sleeping mask/travel pillow)
• Pleasure reading (magazines/books/e-book with charger)
• Antibacterial wipes
• Snorkel/goggles
• Kids/baby gear (diapers/toys/games/etc.)

Now that you can pack like a pro, the only thing missing is your cruise ticket and you’ll be all set to go! Browse our cruise itineraries that visit more than 300 destinations across the seven seas. Simply visit our website to book your dream cruise today.

Elissa Garay

Modern-day explorer, perpetual seeker, and diligent travel scribe Elissa Garay has traveled to and reported on 60-plus countries and 30 cruises, contributing to major national publications like Condé Nast Traveler , CNN Travel , AFAR , and Fodors  along the way. When not out globe-trotting, Elissa resides in Kingston, NY, with her husband and young daughter.

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The Ultimate Cruise Packing List: What to Pack for a Cruise

The Editors

We are the editors of SmarterTravel! Together we have appeared in countless travel publications including ABC News, Huffington Post, Travel + Leisure, USA Today, and more. We dedicate our days to creating and producing expert travel content, including packing tips, general travel advice, destination inspiration, and helpful videos. Follow us across social media on YouTube , Pinterest , Facebook , Instagram , and Twitter or drop us a line to say hi at [email protected]!

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When deciding what to pack for a cruise, you’re really packing for three distinct sub-trips: your cruise ship, which is the equivalent of a large destination resort with a controlled environment; the ports of call, where you will get out and roam around the local area; and your flights to and from your departure port. Sometimes you can solve all three problems with a single wardrobe and accessory set, but sometimes you will need completely different sets. Scroll down to the cruise packing list below to learn how to pack for a cruise as well as what to consider during all aspects of your cruise vacation .

Looking for a cheap cruise? Find the best deals at Avoya Travel.

What to pack for a cruise, clothing/accessories.

• Leisure Shoes
• Sweatshirts
• Undershirts
• Dress Shoes
• Dress Shirts
• Casual Shirts
• Laundry Kit
• Dental Floss
• Nail Clippers
• Moisturizer
• Hand Sanitizer
• Seasickness Remedy
• Contact Lenses
• Contact Solution
• Shaving Supplies
• First-Aid Kit
• Conditioner
• Makeup Remover
• Insect Repellent
• Clothespins
• Medications
• Pain Relievers
• Styling Tools
• Menstrual Products
• Birth Control
• Facial Cleanser
• Toiletry Bag

Miscellaneous/Cruise Specific

• Smart Phone
• Plug Adapter
• Waterproof Phone Case
• Snorkel Gear
• Microfiber Towel
• Copies of Documents

Carry-on Items for a Cruise

• Change of Clothes
• Credit/ATM Cards
• Water Bottle
• Insurance Cards
• Suitcase Locks
• In-flight Medications
• Maps/Directions
• Travel Pillow
• Travel Blanket
• Important Toiletries
• Passport/Visa/ID

What to Pack for a Cruise: At Sea

Once upon a time, almost all cruise ships were pretty dressy, including some events calling for full formal wear. Now only a few upmarket ships still require a bit of fussing, but most of the mass-market ships, like those in the Royal Caribbean and Princess stables, are about as casual as you like. In any event, as long as you’re not out on deck, you’ll be in a comfortably air-conditioned space virtually all the time.

The first job of your cruise packing list is to determine just where on the formal-casual scale you want or have to be in, or if you want to prepare for both ends of the scale. Luckily, business casual attire ( pantsuits , maxi dresses , khaki pants , and button-up shirts tend to fair just fine these days). And for those cruise lines that do have more formal nights, there are typically still buffet options for meals if you want to avoid fancier dress.

The Essential Carry-On Packing List

Then, decide how you want to play your wardrobe. I pack the minimum I’ll need to comply with the lowest degree of dressiness required. On the other hand, other couples I know are fully engaged with dress: The wife doesn’t want to be seen in the same outfit at dinner on any two different days, and the husband even packs his tux for the “Captain’s Dinner” event. But that’s not how everyone travels. Ultimately, it’s your call what’s most comfortable for you to wear on vacation, and therefore to pack.

In any case, layers will be your best friend. Moving between the air conditioned interior of the ship and the potentially much balmier surroundings can feel like packing for two totally different climates. Light shawls , thin cardigans , and linen pants all walk the line between warm and cool, and can be dressed up or down to fit your wardrobe strategy.

Beyond the basic daily wear, pack whatever special recreational wear and accessories you’ll need. Even if you never leave the ship, you will probably want swimwear , and possibly some other specialized clothing and equipment as well.

Where to Buy Formal Wear for a Cruise

While many may want to take advantage of the rare opportunity to dress up, few people have a closet full of formal attire at their disposal. Clothing rental services are an affordable way to get glam on the high seas without overspending or cluttering up your closet with an outfit you’ll only wear once. Rent the Runway offers one time rentals for special occasions and monthly subscriptions (cancel anytime) in 5, 10, and 20 item bundles for those who want to round out their cruise wardrobe.

For those looking to make a more permanent purchase, Suitshop has a large selection of sturdy suits that will last a lifetime and Nordstrom offers dresses at varying levels of formality, from beachy maxi-dresses to true formal options .

The Essential Beach Packing List

What to Pack for a Cruise: In Port

The situation here is obvious: You need to pack for the climate in your cruise destination—and, for most people, being active in each port. You’ll be walking around during shore excursions, and many call for specialized equipment. That means you need to pack comfortable walking shoes and clothing on your cruise, even if you won’t need them on the ship itself. Make sure you pack appropriately for any off-shore excursions.

As to how heavy/light to travel, the Caribbean is hot and steamy pretty much all the time, and the Mediterranean in summer can come close. But weather in other popular areas such as Alaska, New England, and inland European rivers is a bit more variable. Your best bet is to check the weather forecasts just before you pack for your cruise, and always be prepared for rain. For Europe and Bermuda, you should aim for more resort-casual clothing (fair warning: Golf courses in Bermuda have strict dress codes). Some other cruise itineraries that are more casual than the norm include Hawaii, the Mexican Riviera, the Caribbean, and French Polynesia.

7 Things You Should Never Do on a Cruise Ship

What to Pack for a Cruise: Everything Else

Beyond the perfect wardrobe, there are a few key items that will ensure your cruise vacation is nothing but smooth sailing. Add these items to your cruise packing checklist before you embark:

Day Trip Gear

When putting together a packing list for a cruise, think about what you’ll need for your planned activities. A daypack is a necessity for a spending a full day off the boat. Stock it with a reusable water bottle (collapsible for the ultimate space-saver), sun hats , sunblock , insect repellent , and anything else you’ll need to get through the day. Make sure to download the port city’s map so you can access it offline in the event you lose access to WiFi. Drop a pin in your ship’s docking location and set an alarm well ahead of your departure time to signal its time to head back to the ship.

Travelers sometimes forget that they don’t need to pack a full closet full of personal-care products and accessories in their travel toiletry kit . You can buy toothpaste, batteries, and tissues in most places around the world—and also on the cruise ship, albeit at stiff prices. Ships vary in what toiletries they offer onboard.

However there are a few things you don’t want to leave off your cruise checklist, like prescription medications, glasses or contact lenses, and any specialized skincare or hair products that you can’t live without. It’s also a good idea to have a few OTC medications handy from the start in case of seasickness or minor aches and pains from a long flight.

Unlike air travel, cruise ships don’t place an upper size limit on your liquid personal items, so unless you’re flying to your port of departure, your containers can exceed 3.4oz. 

The latest packing challenge is with gadgets. I, for one, would have withdrawal symptoms if I couldn’t get online every day, so I would select a cruise ship with the latest internet connectivity and pack my laptop. On the other hand, if you want to get away from it all, a cruise ship is the ideal place—and you don’t have to pack any devices, converters, and such. Don’t forget your camera, and a travel extension cord can also come in handy.

As mentioned above, any critical devices you can’t live without should come along in your suitcase, be it a laptop, tablet, or just your smartphone. In addition to any necessary chargers, make sure you have an international adapter that works with any port city on the itinerary.

5 Simple Ways to Make Travel Easier

In-Flight Essentials

When packing for your pre- and post-cruise flights, figure out what goes in your carry-on and what gets checked. If you’re big on collecting souvenirs and buying local handicrafts, leave room in your suitcase for what you bring home. You don’t want to get hit with paying for another checked bag or hauling both your regular carry-on and a shopping bag of loot on your flight home.

Cruises are all about relaxing, soaking up the sun on the ship’s deck and catching up on a good book or finally catching up on that podcast. Make sure you don’t use up the leisure activities you packed for the cruise while bored in the terminal or during the flight. Download multiple books on your e-reader or library app, some for the flight and some for the trip. If you prefer paperback, pick up an in-flight read at one of the terminal kiosks or see if your airport has a library loan program .

Important Documents

Make sure you have your passport, ID, credit cards, and any cash (USD and local currency) you plan to spend. Bring along photocopies of important documents and your cruise itinerary. Make sure to leave any vital documents you don’t need for an excursion locked up safely in your cabin.

Can I Do Laundry on a Cruise?

Do you need to pack for the full cruise, or can you have your clothes washed or dry cleaned during your sailing? Although most big ships provide some kind of service, the specific answer to that question varies wildly among different ships: Some charge for laundry the way hotels do, some set a fixed price for a laundry bag full, some sell laundry packages prior to sailing, and a few offer self-service washers and dryers.

But no matter how you do it, you’ll definitely pay more for doing laundry while cruising than you pay at home. In general, large ships offer more options than small ones, and 200-passenger river cruises may provide only limited services. Again, check what your cruise ship offers before you decide how much you need to pack. If you’re unsure what your cruise line offers or don’t want to pay the fee, pack some travel laundry detergent packets and a travel clothes line to wash light items like undergarments and t-shirts in your cabin sink. 

How to Do Laundry on Vacation (No Landromat Required)

What Not to Pack for a Cruise

Like any form of travel, there are a few prohibited items. These include obvious candidates like firearms, fireworks, knives, and any illegal substances. But there are a few surprising items on the list as well. On Carnival Cruises , passengers are not allowed to bring along curtains or large radios and travel clothing steamers are banned from coming aboard any Royal Caribbean ship. Other common prohibited items include scissors, alcoholic beverages, meat, and fish. Make sure to check your specific cruise line’s list of restricted items.

It’s worth noting that cruise ships are governed under federal law, so all marijuana products, including medical marijuana, are generally prohibited onboard regardless of port of departure. Alcohol policies vary by ship (so do your research with your cruise line directly).

Cruise Packing Tips

Packing for any trip can be tricky, but packing for a vacation that is essentially three trips in one is a monumental task for even the most efficient traveler. Maximize your organization and luggage space with these cruise packing tips.

Bring Spare Clothes in Your Carry-On

Having a change of clothes and a few day-to-day necessities in your carry-on can also be a lifesaver in the case of lost or delayed luggage . If you find yourself with no idea where your bags are or waiting to have them shipped to your next port of call, you’ll be glad to have a few extra items on hand to hold you over. It’s also great for that stretch of time between boarding the ship and your luggage showing up in your cabin.

Get a Personal Item That Does Double Duty

Save packing space by bringing along a personal item for the flight that can double as a daypack for excursions. This Lite Daypack from Bellroy is minimalistic and functional while this option from Got Bag is even more compact and comes in four neutral colors.  A foldable wet bag is a great additional to any daypack—it can be used to organize small items on your pre-departure flight and to store your wet swimsuit on the way back to the ship after a day in port.

The Ten Best Cruise Lines for Solo Travelers

Take Advantage of Packing Cubes

Keep yourself extra organized by packing for your “sub-trips” in packing cubes. Designate one for your formal wear, one for your onboard resort wear, and one for anything you plan to wear in port. This keeps your wardrobe organized without having to unpack everything or dig through a upturned suitcase looking for that one shirt you just know you packed.

My most essential recommendation for what to bring on a cruise: Don’t get obsessive about it. Do your best and plan to cope with whatever problems you encounter along the way.

Where to Book a Cruise

When booking a cruise you have two options—booking directly with the cruise line on their site or hunting down the best deals through an online travel agency. Check out our round-up of the best site to book a cruise to find the best deals and easiest processes.

Download Our Cruise Packing List Before You Set Sail

Click on the below image to edit and download the SmarterTravel cruise packing list :

Book a Stay With SmarterTravel Hotels

Need a place to stay the night before you set sail? Search SmarterTravel Hotels for great accommodations in your port of call.

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2016 by SmarterTravel’s Ed Perkins. It has been updated to reflect the most current information. Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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41 Cruise Essentials You Shouldn’t Cruise Without

Planning a cruise in 2024? Whether it’s your first voyage or you’re a seasoned cruiser, it’s time to organize your cruise essentials to pack for your cruise. Don’t forget to print our cruise packing list below.

We’ve compiled essential tips from our cruises and our experienced friend, Kim, aka the Cruising Queen. She has amassed over 60 cruises since childhood and has contributed invaluable packing wisdom to this list.

What are cruise essentials? Cruise essentials are recommended items that enhance your experience by providing comfort and enjoyment. While our list covers basics, consider adding personal preferences like a refillable water bottle or necessary medications not readily available on the ship.

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning we earn a commission at no extra cost. Please refer to our  full disclosure  for details.

Pack essentials for a cruise, including cabin comforts and shore excursion items. This guide covers things to bring on a cruise that will make your vacation more enjoyable. Your needs may vary, so adjust accordingly. Note : Some cruise itineraries may require a slightly different packing list.

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Table of Contents

CRUISE MUST-HAVES: PRE-CRUISE ITEMS

1. be prepared and have your passport and/or government identification ready.

Don’t overlook the passport—it’s the top priority on your cruise packing list. Without it, you won’t be allowed on board, especially if you’re departing from or arriving outside the US.

Pack it in your  travel essentials bag  and check its expiration date; some countries enforce a 6-month validity rule.

I discovered mine was too close to expiring when planning our Celebrity Beyond cruise to the Mediterranean. It prompted me to expedite its renewal immediately upon returning from our last cruise to avoid any hassles with our upcoming cruises.

2. Sturdy Luggage With Wheels That Glide

The importance of sturdy luggage with smooth gliding wheels becomes evident when navigating airports and cruise terminals. Opting for reliable luggage with smooth-spinner wheels can alleviate travel difficulties.

We recently tested Monos and Away travel luggage, focusing on durability, sturdiness, organization, and carry-on capacity. Our recommendation for an excellent overall experience goes to AWAY luggage . However, if you’re looking for budget-friendly options, Amazon offers a variety, including brands like Samsonite and Level 8 .

3. Track Your Luggage: Apple AirTags or Tile Mate Tracker

Lost luggage is a common issue at flight check-in or with cruise porters.  Apple AirTags  offers a modern solution for easy tracking, a small investment for added peace of mind. We always check in to see if our luggage arrives on the plane or the ship.

Android users can opt for  Tile Mate tags .

4. Cruise Luggage Tags

Cruise luggage tags will likely not be mailed to you unless you’re a suite or luxury cruise guest. And even then, you may not receive anything as we did not when we booked a suite at  The Retreat on Celebrity Beyond .

Print them before embarkation. Some staple them to their suitcases, while others use cruise luggage tag holders for security and a neat look. You can then slide the printed e-tags into sealed plastic holders, securing them with a steel loop.

Print an extra set in advance—avoid the hassle of long lines at the port for last-minute printing.

Save now, share with friends, or come back to it later.

Cruise Cabin Items For Efficiency

5. electrical hub essentials: power strip | power outlet.

Bring a power strip or power outlet extender for your cruise, especially on older ships with limited outlets. Cabins often have just a few outlets, and with multiple devices to charge, it’s a smart investment.

Consider a power strip with USB-A and USB-C compatibility.

Newer ships may have more outlets, like our balcony cabin on the Norwegian Joy, which has three US outlets. Assess your needs and plan accordingly.

We have purchased quite a few throughout the years to fit our different needs as we travel:

• CruiseOn Power Outlet
• Tessan Universal Travel Adapter
• One Beat Multi Plug Outlet Extender

‼️ Important Cruise Tip: Surge protectors are  banned on cruise ships  – leave them at home. Bring a plain power strip.

6. Additional Power Hub: USB Charging Station

For your cruise, research and check if your cabin has USB ports—if so, a power outlet extender with extra USB-A ports (as mentioned in #4) suffices. If not, you may want to bring a USB charging station for multiple devices.

If you have many devices needing charging, we recommend an extra charging station—one with USB-A and USB-C ports. Don’t risk a dead camera or phone during port outings.

You can keep all cables, chargers, and power outlets organized in a cable/electronic case like this one that we use.

Read more: 30 Enjoyable Cruise Activities: From Free to Paid Options

7. Power on the Go with a Portable Charger

Having a portable charger with you, especially when disembarking the ship for the day, is important. Since I take so many photos and videos throughout the day, even on Sea Days, by mid-day, I usually bring my portable charger out to get a boost.

Over the years, we’ve tried various portable chargers, and the Morphie chargers stand out as a favorite. Its fast charging capability and ability to charge multiple devices simultaneously make it a reliable choice, especially when sharing with hubby.

8. Smart Space Solutions: Over-the-Door Toiletry Organizer

Consider an over-the-door organizer for three or more people in one cabin, maximizing bathroom storage. This is great for shared spaces with limited surface area. The organizer allows everyone to store their toiletries and other items in designated pockets for easy access later.

We recently upgraded to the BAGSMART Toiletry Bag , replacing our old five-year-old organizer . The new bag is a standout, accommodating everything from our previous organizer and more. It’s practical with a secure zip, foldable design, and features like a handle and door hook, making it perfect for our cruise cabin. We opted for the large size, which suits our needs as a duo.

9. The Handy Portable Fan

A portable fan may seem surprising, but a portable fan is a top recommendation and one of the most popular items on our list. Battery-operated, foldable, and easy to pack in your luggage.

Our friend Kim swears by it for a good night’s sleep and to keep the air circulating, making it a must-have for her on every cruise. Other cruisers can’t sleep without the noise of a fan.

10. Portable Glamour: Your Essential Travel Vanity Mirror

Kim’s stand-up mirror is a brilliant suggestion that our readers love. It’s a must-have if you share a compact cabin with limited space. A standing makeup mirror is a practical solution when you need to do your make-up and someone else is hogging up the bathroom.

For an upgraded experience, explore a travel vanity mirror with lights . While not as basic, it’s rechargeable and provides extra illumination—an excellent choice for enhancing your makeup routine.

11. Utilize Cruise Cabin Space: Maximize Efficiency with Magnetic Hooks

Cabin walls are made of metal, making magnetic hooks a cruise essential.

Opt for heavy-duty ones that hold 100 lbs or more —they’re perfect for keeping your lanyard, hat, or other items organized and secure in the cabin. I also use them to hold important documents on the wall instead of buying and carrying a 2nd set of magnets.

Additionally, you can use them to hang items to dry in the bathroom by sticking one to the ceiling of the shower. They are efficient and versatile.

12. Portable Clothes Line to the Rescue

A must-have when there’s no built-in clothesline in your cruise cabin bathroom. This handy cruise cabin hack , combined with magnetic hooks, lets you dry clothes anywhere inside your cabin. Research your cabin category before cruising to determine if you need to pack this versatile item. Ideal for drying hand-washed items or drying wet swimsuits.

Our balcony cabin on Celebrity Solstice did not have a clothesline.

13. Clothespins Have More Than One Use

In the comments, a seasoned cruiser suggested bringing a few clothespins from home. In your cabin bathroom, use them on the clothing line to hang up wet swimsuits or hand-washed items. They also come in handy for securing balcony curtains and keeping light out of the room. This is a small, practical addition to enhance your cruise experience.

If you purchase the Portable Clothes Line above, you don’t need to bring clothespins, as that set comes with them.

14. Don’t Stub Your Toe in the Middle of the Night: Bring a Nightlight

Nighttime in the cabin can be pitch dark, risking a stubbed toe during nighttime bathroom trips– I speak from experience, ouch.

Solve this with a small LED nightlight. Battery-powered tea lights work well. They’re cheap, take up minimal luggage space, and are often available at local dollar stores– I get mine at Ikea.

You can also consider the travel nightlight by CruiseOn or a plug-in nightlight .

15. Packing Cubes: Packing Tip Not To Be Missed

I believe in packing cubes . Packing cubes keeps your suitcase organized and saves space, making unpacking a breeze. After dropping off your suitcase in the cruise cabin, transfer your packed cubes to the drawers or shelves. Hang a few items in the closet, and you’ll be ready to head out for another vacation cocktail in no time.

16. Stuff Your Dirty Clothes in a Laundry Bag

This foldable laundry bag easily fits in your luggage or carry-on. Conveniently toss dirty clothes during your trip, and when packing for disembarkation, stuff the bag, clothes, and all into your luggage. While others prefer pop-up laundry bags, we like to keep our dirty clothes separate when repacking.

A shopping bag may also suffice, but our trusty laundry bag has been a reliable travel companion on many trips. Even though our new suitcases came with laundry bags, we still packed and used this one .

Cruise Ship Essentials: Accessories

17. a coffee tumbler for the coffee lover.

For coffee lovers, packing your favorite coffee tumbler is a game-changer. Those buffet cups are a joke, and since we all like to save money on a cruise , hubby uses his tumbler to avoid multiple buffet trips. Essential since anything outside the main dining areas and designated coffee spots is considered a specialty and costs extra.

It’s also environmentally friendly, safer in crowded spaces since it is covered (I’ve almost run into other passengers a few times while carrying an open cup of coffee), and keeps your coffee hot longer. Trust me, you’ll thank me later.

Note: If you purchase a premium beverage package that includes all the specialty coffees you can drink, leave the tumbler at home. They provide to-go cups, and health regulations prohibit them from serving coffee in your tumbler.

18. Stay Hydrated and Bring a Reusable Water Bottle

An insulated water tumbler is your eco-friendly companion on and off the ship. Cruise ships don’t provide free bottled water unless you have a drink package, so fill up your tumbler with ice and water at the buffet with the filtered water they provide. It’s another great way to save money and stay hydrated. You can also bring it off the ship with you on port days.

Tip: Some cruise lines will allow you to carry on a case of water water bottles. Check with the cruise line you’re sailing in.

19. Reusable Straws If You Can’t Drink Your Frozen Drinks Without One

Plastic straws are a thing of the past on many cruise lines, replaced by eco-friendly options like paper and compostable straws. Depending on the cruise, they probably won’t give you one, or only by request.

Missing a straw with your piña colada? We get it. It’s not the same. Although bringing your straws may seem unnecessary, it’s a personal choice considering the environmental impact of plastic. Cruise lines are adapting, but if you prefer your own, go ahead and bring them along.

20. Lanyards & Alternative Ways to Hold Your Cruise Card

You’ll receive a cruise cabin card upon embarkation—a multifunctional key to your cruise experience. Linked to your credit card, it serves as your payment method, grants access to your cabin, and facilitates embarkation and disembarkation. Carrying it with you is vital, and using a lanyard is a popular, convenient, and readily accessible way to keep your cruise cabin card close at hand.

While lanyards are sold on the cruise ship, you can find affordable options on Amazon. Remember to carry your cruise ship card when leaving your cabin, and since hole-punching is no longer allowed, opt for a lanyard with a plastic slip.

I’ve ditched lanyards for a small crossbody bag on cruises. Alternatively, consider phone/wallet crossbody bags or phone wallets that attach to your phone—perfect for keeping your cruise cabin card accessible.

This is the crossbody purse I’ve been using since it fits my Kindle, too.

Some newer cruise ships offer advanced features, allowing you to manage everything from your phone and its app, including locking and unlocking your cabin door. Virgin Cruises gives you a bracelet to manage it all, making cruise cards a thing of the past their ships.

21. Ziplock Bags

The most versatile item for your cruise is a Ziplock bag —handy for unexpected needs like storing wet clothes, organizing last-minute items in your luggage, and even snacks. We recommend bringing gallon and quart-sized bags. Environmentally friendly reusable storage bags are also a great alternative.

Cruise Shore Excursion and Port Day Essentials

22. keep your towel in place with beach towel clips & bands.

During one of our cruises, we discovered the value of beach towel clips while sunbathing by the pool deck on the ship and then at the beach in port. These clips keep your towel secure on your chair, preventing the frustration of constant readjustments, especially on windy days. And when you’re out at sea, it’s windy. Now, we always travel with beach towel clips.

Another option popular among cruisers is beach towel bands .

23. Waterproof Phone Case for Water Adventures

Ideal for vacations with water activities, a waterproof phone case has proven invaluable during cruise shore excursions like kayaking in Harvest Caye . The universal waterproof phone pouch, being both affordable and popular, is my go-to. It’s a permanent fixture in my travel essentials arsenal; it’s easy to roll up and pack, taking up minimal room.

24. Bring Your Own Snorkel Set

While we include the snorkel set in our beach packing list , just like we won’t miss packing our flip-flops, we will always bring our own set when cruising to beach destinations. This way, we are ready to head to the beach and snorkel if we don’t plan excursions. Even if we do, we like having ones we are used to using and know that no one else has used them. Plus, you save money by not having to rent them out.

25. Water shoes

These are always a must for us when cruising the Caribbean. Not all beaches are equal with that soft white sand you want to sink your toes in. Some have rocky beaches, like in Bonaire and Curacao , where our water shoes were lifesaving. You can carry them in your beach bag or wear them for the day if you know you’re going to beach hopping.

These are my favorite water shoes because they look like sneakers, while my husband prefers his Speedos .

26. Packable Beach Towel

The cruise ship will give you a beach towel to bring off the ship on port days. Realistically, there is no need to spend money on more towels if you don’t want to.

However, these packable microfiber beach towels are not bulky, easy to pack, and take up less room in your beach bag. They’ll do the same job or better than the cruise ship towel. This may be a wise investment if you’re a frequent cruiser looking to save space in your beach bag.

27. A Hat For Sun Protection

Don’t underestimate the power of a sun hat. Often overlooked, it becomes a regrettable afterthought when you’re under the scorching sun. Ideal for sunny days on the pool deck, too.

Learn from my experience, pack your favorite sun hat, and avoid impromptu purchases at the port.

28. Beach Bag or Travel Backpack for Port Days

Choose a beach bag or travel backpack for sunscreen, water bottle, towel, and more.

We use a versatile carry-on bag , doubling as a cruise carry-on and a beach bag at ports. During other trips, we take it empty in our luggage to fill it up with goodies we find while on vacation to bring back.

Another great option that we love to use is the packable backpack .

29. Travel Umbrella Because You Can’t Let Some Drizzle Rain on Your Parade

Cruise ships typically provide umbrellas only to passengers staying in higher-end suites. If it’s raining at port, you might consider staying on the ship, but that doesn’t stop everyone. Bring a travel umbrella ; weather can be unpredictable, especially in the Caribbean, where rain showers come and go. It’s also a must-pack item for cruises to Alaska , and we certainly used ours.

Essentials Toiletries & First Aid You’ll Need

30. don’t forget the sunscreen.

Planning to sunbathe on the pool deck or at the beach at port? Don’t forget sunscreen —even on overcast days. I skipped it once on a cloudy day and regretted it with a severe sunburn. Sunscreen is a cruise essential and will cost you double or triple the normal cost on the cruise ship. Try to get reef-friendly sunscreen if you’re heading out snorkeling at port.

31. Take Care of That Sunburn with This Sunburn Relief

Have you ever ended up buying overpriced aloe at the port due to a bad sunburn? I’ve been there. Despite ample sunscreen in Hawaii, we faced serious sunburns. We discovered an incredible after-sun moisturizer in Kauai that is worth bringing with you.

32. Keep Mosquitos Away: Mosquito Repellent

This will depend on where you’re cruising, but adding an insect repellent to your cruise packing list isn’t a bad idea. If mosquitos love you, you won’t regret having a good repellent with you. We love the Natrapel brand repellent , which you can find in sporting goods stores like REI.

33. Prepare for Seasickness

Bring sea bands or a motion sickness patch , just in case. If you prefer alternatives to medications like Dramamine or Bonine . Ginger pills can help, but start taking them 2-3 weeks before the cruise for effectiveness. Green apples in the buffet are readily available and can assist with motion sickness.

34. Shared Cabin Tip: Poo-Pourri to the Rescue

When sharing a cabin with limited bathroom privacy, like on the Norwegian Epic cruise ship , having a bottle of Poo-Pourri can be a lifesaver. This before-you-go toilet spray ensures a more pleasant shared space experience.

35. No Iron, No Problem: Use Downey Release Spray

Avoid the hassle of no irons onboard with Downy Wrinkle Release Spray . Just spray it on your clothes, smooth them out, and watch the wrinkles disappear within minutes. You can also hang your clothes in the bathroom after spraying them. The steam will help loosen those wrinkles out even more.

Note: Some Carnival, Princess, and Disney ships may have laundry rooms with irons, but you should verify within your cruise roll call or Facebook groups for the cruise ship if they are available.

You can also consider sending clothes for formal nights for proper ironing on day 1 of your cruise.

36. Laundry Detergent for Handwashing

We love to travel with the Tide-to-Go packets when we cruise. These handy detergent packets are perfect for handwashing clothes, and a little goes a long way—lasting for 2-3 washes.

If washing machines are available during our travels, we bring a few Tide pods from home in a ziplock bag for convenience.

37. Tide-To-Go Pen For Quick Clean-Up of Small Stains

Don’t travel anywhere without a Tide-to-Go pen. This pen is such a lifesaver. It will easily clean out spots you probably don’t know how they got there. Takes up no space, and it’s easy to pack.

38. Add Electrolyte Mixes to Your List

Whether exploring hot ports or winding down with a few drinks, enhance your cruise experience by including travel packs of electrolyte mixes to your cruise essentials.

Our top choice is Liquid I.V Hydration Multiplier , a refreshing and effective way to replenish electrolytes and stay energized. They are easy to pack, and the packets are small enough to keep 1 or 2 with you in your bag.

39. Medications You Need

For regular prescription medications, ensure they are always in your bag with you. Consider adding over-the-counter meds that you think you will need. Our handy pill organizer is filled with potential OTC meds and has proved invaluable during our travels. You can purchase something like this, too, and then label it.

• Allergy meds
• Aspirin (Tylenol)
• Anti-inflammatory (Advil, Aleve)
• Anti-diarrhea (Immodium, Pepto)

Create a list based on your needs. Be prepared for unexpected health situations during your cruise.

40. First Aid Kit

Always bring a small first-aid kit when traveling. They sell premade ones online that you can purchase and add a few things to do or make your own.

We do have travel with a first-aid kit with bandages and the like, but these are the top things that we like to keep in our first-aid kit outside of medications:

• Hydrocortisone
• Blister Bandages

41. Avoid Getting Sick: Use Hand Sanitizers and Disinfectants

When we travel, we always carry hand sanitizers and wipes. You can find mini disinfectants in local convenience stores, pharmacies, and markets.

While cruise ships have hand sanitizer stations, hand washing stations, and staff equipped with spray bottles with hand sanitizers, carrying your own helps keep your hands germ-free between hand washes is wise. Be proactive about your hygiene even when on board.

Is this a 100% foolproof way of not getting sick? No, but it helps to minimize your chances and someone else’s.

OUR Top 5 Cruise Essentials We Never Sail Without

• Portable Charger
• Over-the-Door Toiletry Bag
• Magnetic Hooks
• First-Aid/Medications

Printable Cruise Essentials Packing List

We’ve created a printable cruise packing list of the essentials mentioned in this post. You can cross off anything you don’t plan to take or don’t make sense for your traveling style. Check mark things you plan to pack as you add them to your suitcase.

What should I pack for my first cruise?

For your first cruise, pack travel documents, casual and formal clothing, toiletries, medications, electronics, sun protection, travel accessories, and optional items such as books to read.

What do I not need on a cruise?

On a cruise, you do not need to worry about packing things like shampoo, conditioner, and soap if you don’t mind using what they provide. You can also leave behind hangers and household items like coffee machines, and don’t think of bringing an iron or a steamer as they are prohibited items that are not allowed on a cruise ship .

What do I need when boarding a cruise?

When boarding a cruise, you must have your official identification, such as a passport or government-issued ID, and your boarding pass. Have a credit card to link to your cruise card for onboard expenses and cash for additional tipping. Additionally, you should keep the necessary medications and change clothes in your carry-on bag to be pool-ready if your checked luggage is delayed.

Clever Cruise Cabin Hacks and Tips

BEFORE YOU SET SAIL, HERE ARE SOME RELATED ARTICLES YOU DON’T WANT TO MISS:

• Must-Have Items to Pack for a Caribbean Cruise
• Packing For An Alaskan Cruise Must-Haves
• Women’s Cruise Clothing for Packing Smart
• Essential Men’s Cruise Wear Guide and Packing Pointers
• Beach Gear: 25 Must-Have Items for the Beach

Meet Kathy Ava, a food, travel, and cruise writer based in Los Angeles/Pasadena, and the owner and main writer of Tasty Itinerary. With over 20 years of experience planning trips and logistics at her full-time job and for herself, she's become a pro at crafting unforgettable tasty itineraries. She's always on the hunt for delicious, fun travel destinations and cruise itineraries. She firmly believes that life is short and we must make the most of it, so always say yes to dessert.

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40 Comments

I just booked a cruise so this was very helpful info to know in advance. Thanks for sharing!

That is great! Let me know if you need any other tips.

I’m about to book a cruise and this list is going to help me a lot! I love making travel lists and this one gave me some new ideas like makeup mirror lol (you know, us ladies need that!!) and tea lights. Overall, great tips!

Thanks, Amira at ASelfGuru.com

I’m so glad it helped! Let me know how that mirror works out for you.

I love that your husband needs to have his travel coffee mug! That is the best. Maybe you can make it a tradition to buy one on every ship…you know, just like people collect shot glasses or magnets?

So TMI but when I am packing for short trips (like overnights), I forget the most important item ever. AND IT’S NOT THE WINE. For some dumb reason, I forget clean undies. Yup. Confession from a world traveler here, and I am SO embarrassed. But I had to bring it up after the coffee mug thing.

Love the little electric candles. Clearly, I am too barfy for a cruise, but they came in so handy for our last FL hurricane. They are romantic too. A must; you are right.

I 200% need to travel with a stand up mirror! I need something for the plane too.

I will be sure to use your affiliate links when I make purchases.

Great post and tips. Thanks!

Love, Christine, The Uncorked Librarian

? But that is the most important thing to pack! ?? Love It!

But yeah, who knew that a coffee travel mug was an essential? I mean, I need coffee too but I just get it at breakfast and lunch if needed. I guess I don’t have the addiction your hubster has? He must literally drink it all day long. If I did that, you’d never see me cuz I’d be in the restroom ?

Kathy, your posts are always so informative! Informative, fun, and engaging! A triple threat! And Kim, awesome tips! Thank you!!

Haha, about the bathroom thing. I plead the 5th! =D

When you go on your first cruise and it’s one of those mega ships, you’ll understand what I’m talking about. It’s a long walk to and from the buffet usually. Coffee mug is a must for the free coffee. 🙂

Keep an eye on Bermuda cruise sales from NYC. You can get a great deal to go here and they stop in Bermuda for like 3 days. Great week away, even with the family.

Omg, Christine! I was dying laughing reading your comment last night. The way you express yourself is a skill I wish I had. Never change!

And, we did try to buy a travel mug at the gift shop on board, but they didn’t have any in stock. Can you believe that? Lack of marketing because I believe they would make a killing. We are not the first people to forget our travel mugs.

If you take a stand up mirror on the plane, I want pics!

Thank you for the support. You are amazing.

This post is awesome! I’ve been wanting to cruise forever and I’ve read so many posts about what to bring when you cruise. I promise you, none of them covered half the things you put on this post. And all of these things are super necessary. Great post 🙂

Oh, you made my day! This is so great to hear. Hope it helps with your future cruise plans.

This post comes at a perfect time for my family and I. We leave on our cruise in a week! So excited but nervous I may forget something. This will be my husband’s 10th cruise, my 4th cruise, my daughter’s 3rd cruise and my son’s 2nd cruise and all on Carnival!

Oh, how exciting! You must come back and let me know how it went. Or do you plan to blog about it? Either way, have a fantastic time! Cruising is a great family vacation.

Wow, I’ve never been on a cruise and I would have never thought to pack even half of these items!

Some of these items are great for other travel too. =)

It’s been many years since I was on a cruise, but I know that a list like this would have been extremely helpful! Great advice!

Thanks! Hope you get to go on a cruise someday soon!

What a treasure trove of tips! Many of these are great tips for travel in general. I’d never thought about an insulated cup for taking ice out in. I’ve never been on a cruise but if I ever do, I’ll definitely be referring back to this list ?

Hey! Thanks for stopping by! Yes, some of these just make life easier. I’m not one to pack a lot, but when we cruise, we do tend to take more stuff than usual.

I have never been on a cruise, but I would love to go on one at some point. These packing tips will come in handy if/when we do go on one. Thanks for sharing.

Hope you get to go on a cruise soon. It’s a great vacation option.

There are some awesome tips here that I would never have thought of!!! I love the suggestion of using an over the door shoe rack as storage space in the bathroom – genius!! We’ve only ever been on one cruise but it’s definitely something I’d like to do more of! Thanks for sharing these great tips!

How did you like that one cruise? People either love it or hate. Would love to know your thoughts!

Useful info! I’m not sure if I’ll ever be brave enough to go on a bigger cruise but it’s also exciting. Do you know any good pills that one can take if they are seasick? Or do you not get that on these huge ships?

I think the bigger the ship, the less likely you’ll get seasick. Also, important to book a mid-ship cabin so you don’t feel the rocking so much. Generally, I don’t feel it and I get used to it after a day. My BFF loves to cruise but suffers from motion sickness… ginger pills help, so she says. The crew always tells us to eat green apples cause that helps. Hope you get to try it out some day, even if its for a long weekend. It’s really like one great big party on the ship, especially if you go with a group of friends you love. Thanks for coming by, Jella! You’re awesome!

@Jella, I take a natural over the counter ginger vitamin 2 to 3 weeks before a cruise and during definitely has helped I also wear sea bands you can also buy ginger candies

Great tip. I love those ginger candies and chews, too.

This will be my third Cruise! I am definitely looking forward to it. Ever since my first cruise, I have researched what I might need on each trip. Your suggestions are spot on! I have gone through each trip list and either taken out some items or added to the list. I love cruising very much and like that you have made a list of essentials needed. Take care and cruise on!

Hi Joyce! Your feedback means so much! I’m always learning from other cruisers as well. So glad you agree with this list and think its helpful. Have fun on your next cruise!

I am curious as to how you take all this stuff and still stay under the 50# weight limit for the airlines. Haha. Going on our 2nd cruise in 12 years in a few months. Have been stocking up but need to watch the weight.

Hi Karen! Not everyone will pack everything on this list, only what they think they need to make their cruise more comfortable. We manage to always be under 50 lbs unless I start adding too many things from my beach packing list, that’s when it starts getting tricky. As we usually travel with a carry-on and then another suitcase that is slightly bigger that needs to be checked in. We also have travel backpacks. When we travel it is also just hubby and I, depending on the cabin, we probably won’t need the shoe rack and I may not be in the mood to apply make-up, so no mirror necessary. It all depends, however, most of this is small and light. I also do not like to overpack when it comes to clothes because I used to do this all the time and return home with never wearing half of what I packed. We also always take advantage of laundry on the ship (NCL offers $20 per bag of laundry as a mid-week special). When do we run into problems? On the return flight! Usually, its too many pounds of duty-free foreign coffee that we need to bring home or chocolate! That’s when the travel backpacks truly help. 😀 Hope you have a fantastic time on your cruise! Don’t stress about packing every single thing, just what you think you’ll need.?You can also buy one of those handy luggage scales and weigh your luggage before you leave your home.?

For a couple you could check 100 lbs of luggage. That seems like a fair amount to me.

Also, the only hassle would be lugging bags around the airport as once on the cruise you are situated. It is not like a European driving trip where you change hotels.

You just mentioned one of my favorite reasons to cruise… once situated on the ship, that’s it. No dragging luggage like when we go on a European adventure. Definitely a nice perk. Thanks for commenting!

Easiest way to weigh your bag is a bathroom scale. If it doesnt fit then weigh yourself, then hold the bag and subtract your weight from the new weight.

Yes, that’s a great tip. Also, a travel luggage scale is a great tool for when you’re not near a bathroom scale.

After 35 cruises I agree with every item. There are some that are new to me but I definitely will include. Another suggestion is plastic clothes pins to hang up lingerie and wet swim suits on the cord in the shower. Thanks for the tips

Hi Patricia – That’s a great tip! I will definitely add that one soon. Appreciate your comment – made my day!

Once i forgot my swimsuit. Not pretty. They didn’t have anything onboard to help and we searched in every port and finally found one I could squeeze into! My husband assured me it was fine. It was WAY to small. I actually wore a bra under it (and it had a DEEP plunging neckline!) Can we all say jacuzzi and suddenly every guy older than 70 is in the tub with me! Oy! And there water slide???? LOL 😣

One time I only took one bra. It malfunctioned – one front fastener on the strap broke and almost hit my husband in the eye when it propelled across the room! 😯 We didn’t have a safety pin and tried to fix it with an old earring until our room steward found a safety pin on the ship somewhere because even the gift shop didn’t have any!

So, the moral of my story is to be careful with your packing. Check off lists! I put all of my essential stuff on a chair as I remember what I am sure I’d forget.

We are off on a vaccinated cruise on Carnival next Sunday. Bathing suit, a spare and two extra bras plus more masks than one person needs, in the packing cube as I speak! 🤣

Oh no! I totally envisioned the hot tub scenario. Hubby always says the same, “you look fine” haha – gotta love them for loving us blindly.

Yes, it is so important to be careful with what we pack. There are some things that I’ve learned my lesson on and learned the hard way that I won’t always be able to buy it when I get to my destination.

I’m totally adding safety pins to this list after this comment. Also, going to mention a quick reminder of going over lists and not forgetting swimsuits. Thanks so much for commenting!

FYI, it’s “ports-of-call”. Many of your suggestions are very good.

Thank you, Betty!

How to Pack for Your Cruise Vacation

Everything You Need to Take on Your Cruise

TripSavvy / Melissa Ling 

Packing for a cruise is one of the worst parts of your vacation . The only thing most cruise travelers dread more is unpacking when they get home. To lessen this dread, a comprehensive packing list is essential. Anyone who has forgotten some important item and then had to purchase it at double the price on the cruise ship or in a port of call will know that such a list can be invaluable.

One important packing tip: If traveling with a companion or spouse, divide your checked items into two suitcases. That way, if one is lost, you will both have some clothing to wear. It would be terrible for your spouse to have all of his/her clothes and you to have nothing but your carry-on. Also, be sure to carry-on anything that you cannot live without for a couple of days (medicines, swimsuit, clean underwear), just in case your luggage is lost or delayed.

Cruise Travel Essentials

Use this cruise packing list as a starter and modify it for your personal tastes. You may not need everything on this list, but all are items worth considering. 

Travel Documents, Wallet Items, and Paperwork Packing List

• Airline tickets or e-ticket confirmation
• Cruise documents
• Passports and visas (if necessary) or other proof of citizenship 
• Vaccination certificate (if required)
• Driver's license and auto insurance card (in case you decide to rent a car when ashore)
• Medical insurance cards and medical history (especially if traveling alone)
• Copy of prescriptions and list of all medicines you are taking
• Another government-issued picture ID (e.g. driver's license)
• Credit cards (be sure to call credit card companies before traveling to alert them you are traveling outside your normal area)
• ATM card (be sure to call your bank to notify them you are traveling)
• Pre-paid phone card or SIM card for mobile phone (these can also be purchased at your destination)
• Cash (some in small bills for tipping or buying low priced souvenirs)
• Copies of airline tickets, cruise tickets, passports/visas, itinerary: Pack one copy in your carry-on, one copy in your checked luggage, and leave one copy with someone at home. Alternatively, you can scan the documents and email an electronic copy to yourself so that you can access them from any computer terminal.
• Contact numbers to report lost/stolen credit cards or traveler's checks
• Emergency numbers at home
• Currency conversion chart or app downloaded

Reading Material and Necessities Packing List

• Glasses, contacts, contact cleaner
• Extra reading glasses
• Reading sunglasses
• Guidebooks and other port of call information
• Foreign language phrase book or dictionary
• Reading material (books to read while on the plane or lounging by the pool; if you pack an electronic book, don't forget the charger)
• Journal or notebook and pen/pencil (for making notes to tell your friends back home about your experiences)
• Business cards with email address to give out to new cruise friends
• Home and email addresses of friends/relatives back home (for sending postcards, emails, or gifts)
• Photo album (to share pictures of those adorable kids, grandkids, or pets with new friends)

Electronics and Camera Equipment Packing List

• Plug adapter and converter (most electronic items like cameras, computers, and e-books do not need a converter, but do need an adapter in hotels)
• Mobile phone and charger
• Tablet or e-book and charger
• Laptop computer
• Underwater camera (for snorkeling or beach days)
• Digital camera and manual
• Extra memory cards for digital camera
• Batteries for digital camera
• Battery charger
• Extension cord/power strip with multiple plug-ins
• iPod and headphones (for listening on the airplane, walking on deck or on a treadmill)
• Small travel alarm clock (battery operated)
• Lighted dial clock for cruise ship cabin
• Small flashlight

Medicine Kit Packing List

• Prescription drugs and any other essential medications in carry-on bag
• Earplugs or "ear planes"
• Small first aid kit (band-aids, Q-tips, vaseline, Dramamine, antibiotic cream, bandages, anti-diarrhea medication, cortisone cream, aspirin/Tylenol/Advil)
• Germicidal hand cleaner
• Handi-wipes (for cleaning hands when ashore)
• Hand lotion
• Rubbing alcohol or foot lotion for soothing tired, hot feet
• Bug spray (not for your cabin on the ship, but for those pesky mosquitoes and "nonos" ashore)
• Sunscreen/sunblock and lip sunblock

Other "Necessities" Packing List

• Extra plastic cable-lock ties for securing luggage for the return trip (better than locks, but one-time use only)
• Extra luggage name tags (in case yours are lost on the outbound trip)
• Ziploc bags of all sizes and garbage/laundry bags
• Corkscrew (be sure to put in checked luggage)
• Swiss Army knife or something similar with screwdriver head, etc. (be sure to put in checked luggage)
• Small umbrella
• Collapsible travel pillow for those long airplane flights
• Playing cards
• Sports gear (e.g., snorkeling gear)
• Shoehorn (for getting those shoes back on your swollen feet)
• Sewing kit and scissors (pack in checked luggage)
• Travel-sized detergent
• Clothespins
• Empty folding tote bag (for souvenirs or the beach)
• Hats/caps/visors
• Insulated large coffee mugs
• Insulated reusable water bottle

Women's Cruise Clothing Packing List

• Compression stockings (for airplane flight to prevent swollen ankles)
• Exercise/walking socks
• Trouser socks or pantyhose
• Camisole/slip
• Purses (day and evening)
• Gloves and warm hat (if expect cold weather)
• Walking shoes
• Walking sandals
• Rubber sandals for reef walking and beach
• Evening shoes
• Costume jewelry and extra watch
• Swimsuit cover-up/pareo/sarong
• Thongs/flip-flop shoes
• Work out clothes and jog bra
• Dress/outfit for informal nights on ship
• Dress/outfit for formal nights on ship
• Dress/outfit for casual nights on ship
• Tops of all types (sleeveless, short-sleeved, long-sleeved)
• Capri pants
• Windbreaker jacket
• Evening sweater
• Raincoat with hood

Women's Sundries and Miscellaneous

• Blow dryer (most cruise ships provide, so this is optional)
• Curling iron or curlers
• Hairspray (non-aerosol)
• Conditioner
• Bar soap in plastic container
• Dental floss
• Make-up mirror
• Make-up and make-up bag
• Make-up remover
• Moisturizer and freshener
• Nail polish and remover
• Nail clippers and file (be sure to pack in checked luggage)
• Razor and shaving cream (pack in checked luggage)

Men's Cruise Clothing Packing List

• Underwear (briefs or boxer shorts)
• Undershirts
• Pajamas and robe
• Compression socks (for airplane flight to prevent swollen ankles)
• Black dress socks
• Gloves and warm hat (if you expect cold weather)
• Rubber sandals/shoes for reef walking and beach
• Evening or dress shoes
• "Docksider" casual shoes
• Tuxedo jacket and pants (or dark suit)
• Tuxedo tie, suspenders, and cummerbund
• Tuxedo cufflinks/studs
• Sport jacket
• Regular ties
• Tuxedo shirt
• Dress shirts
• Swimsuit cover-up
• Work out clothes/T-shirts
• Casual shirts
• Slacks (casual and dress)

Men's Sundries and Miscellaneous

• Shampoo and hair products
• Razor and shaving cream (or electric razor and supplies)

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37+ Cruise Travel Essentials You Need In 2024

Are you planning on going on a cruise soon? If so, you’ll need certain cruise travel essentials to make your vacation as enjoyable, comfortable, and smooth sailing as possible! In this article, I share my top 37 cruise travel essentials that you won’t want to leave home without.

Looking for the ultimate cruise travel essentials list?

You’ve found it! My husband and I have been on many cruises over the years. We’ve taken our kids on cruises, and we’ve also gone without the kids, since we know how important it is to travel as a couple . Each time we learn something new, and figure out another solution to a little problem we encounter.

Our frequency of cruising has enabled me to write multiple articles chock full of important advice and tips for taking cruises . I even have an article to help you in narrowing down the hundreds of cruise options to pick the best cruise vacation for your own needs.

Most of the time these solutions are just ways to make our trip slightly more comfortable or convenient. For example, the first time we cruised we had no idea that the ships didn’t provide irons. We assumed we’d be able to iron out our clothes, so didn’t even think twice about doing it beforehand or minding how we packed.

Needless to say, we both had some very wrinkly outfits that first time! The next time we packed for a cruise , we not only packed carefully, but we also brought a new essential item – wrinkle release spray!

What Are Cruise Essentials?

In essence, cruise essentials are items that are vital to the success and enjoyment of your cruise . They are the necessary items that you should consider bringing on your trip to maximize comfort and convenience. “What do I need for a cruise?” is a very common question folks ask, and I’m here to provide that answer!

There are many products that you may not ever think about that will improve your cruise experience, and the list of those products will be slightly different for each person.

Below, I’ve listed many items that I consider to be cruise travel essentials. You may find that you don’t need all of these items, but I guarantee you want to bring most of them. An explanation of why I recommend these must-have cruise items is accompanied by a photo link to Amazon where you can purchase them.

Cruise Must-Haves For Your Cabin

First, we’re going to dive into the necessary items specifically for your cabin, or stateroom. These items are going to make your temporary home away from home much more comfortable, in various ways. Many of them are things you may already have purchased for past vacations, or they may be things you already have at home.

• Wrinkle Release Spray

I briefly mentioned wrinkle release spray above as an essential cruise item. As my husband and I found out the hard way, cruise ships do not provide irons. In fact, irons and clothes steamers are on the extensive list of things you can’t bring on a cruise ship . So what do you do about wrinkly clothes?

First, before you pack you should iron out your clothes that are prone to wrinkling, and then pack them carefully in garment bags. This will help prevent wrinkles from happening in the first place. Second, you should unpack your luggage as soon as possible and hang everything up.

Some folks try to hang their clothes in the bathroom while they take a hot shower, and let the steam try to work out some of the wrinkles. But cruise ship bathrooms are very small, and this method isn’t always as effective as you want it to be.

Instead, once you’ve hung up your garments, use this Wrinkle Release Spray and gently tug and smooth the wrinkles out of your clothes.

• Power Strip

Cruise ship cabins are notoriously small, and usually have very few outlets. To remedy this, bring along a Power Strip to give you the ability to plug in more of your electronics at once.

Be absolutely sure that your power strip does not have a surge protector. Surge protectors are not allowed on cruise ships and if you try to bring one it will be confiscated. You’ll typically get your confiscated items back at the end of your cruise but that doesn’t solve the problem that led you to bring a power strip in the first place.

This is the power strip that I purchased to bring on our cruises. It is exactly what you need for a cruise cabin.

• Over The Door Organizer

Not only are cruise cabins small, but the bathrooms in your room are teeny! You have very little storage space in the bathroom, and what little counter space you do have you don’t want to be cluttering up with all your stuff.

The solution to this problem is an Over The Door Organizer like this one below. Hang it right on the inside of your bathroom door, and fill it with all your necessities. Shower products, deodorant, cologne and perfume, makeup, razor, sunscreen… everything that you need can be neatly stored in these pouches, plus it keeps everything within reach!

Any time we travel anywhere, whether in the states or abroad, somewhere on an all-inclusive resort , or even on a cruise, we always bring a door lock for our room. It’s a simple device that adds a huge amount of peace of mind.

I don’t mean to imply that any particular place is inherently more dangerous than others, rather, I suggest always showing caution no matter where you stay, by adding an extra layer of security to your room at night.

These locks easily attach to your room door, providing extra security and privacy. It takes only seconds to attach, and when you place this lock, the door cannot be opened from the outside.

• Magnetic Hooks

I mentioned earlier how space is limited in your cabin. What I didn’t mention is that the walls, ceiling, and door are all made of metal, which means they’re magnetic.

Easily hang wet bathing suits, lanyards, decorations and anything else you want on these magnetic hooks . You can stay organized and keep your room tidier by keeping things off the floor.

I keep one by the door, and all our room key lanyards go right on the hook when we enter our room so no one’s ever gets lost.

• Portable Fan

Cruise ships generally have AC but the rooms can still get stuffy, especially if you chose an interior cabin. And if you have a balcony, a lot of the times the AC will automatically shut off if your balcony door is open.

To get air moving in your cabin, bring along a portable fan . You can even open your cabin door while the fan is on for maximum air flow. Plus, you can use it all around the ship to cool yourself off!

Finding your way around your unfamiliar cruise ship in the middle of the night can be treacherous. You especially don’t want your kids trying to find their way to the bathroom in the dark in the middle of the night!

Stumbling around in the dark is never a good idea, plus once you turn on a light you’ll likely disturb the sleep of everyone else in your room. Instead, grab a motion activated nightlight like this one to help guide you around your cabin when it’s dark, without waking eveIone else up.

• Travel Mirror

As I’ve mentioned, cruise ship cabins and bathrooms are very small. Yes there are mirrors, but they aren’t always where you need them. And if you are sharing a cabin with anyone else, you may not even have access to the mirror when you need it.

To remedy this, simply bring along a travel mirror with you. I love this one for its 3 different lighting shades and the ability to recharge it via USB. It’s compact, lightweight, and easily portable so it can go wherever you go.

• Travel Alarm Clock

Your cabin may or may not have a clock already in it. And if it does, it may not be reliable enough to ensure you wake up in time for your scheduled activities. I recommend bringing a small alarm clock for your cabin so you know you won’t miss important events like excursions, or dinner!

I love this basic alarm clock, without all the bells and whistles. Don’t forget to also pick up some AAA batteries for it too!

Poo-Pourri is a lifesaver on vacation. Bathrooms are smelly, we all know this. And cruise ship cabins being as small as they are provide very little by way of fresh air.

Therefore, I consider Poo-Pourri to be the ultimate cruise travel essential. You spray the toilet water before you do your business and somehow it creates a barrier that keeps the stink in the toilet and not the air.

Get it. Trust me on this one.

• Laundry Bag

An ingenious way to stay organized in your small space is by bringing a laundry bag . All dirty clothes can go right in the bag, and when you’re ready to pack up at the end of your trip, the whole bag can just go right in your luggage.

It’s the perfect way to keep your cabin tidy, and to keep your dirty clothes separate from your clean ones. It also makes the sad task of packing up at the end of vacation significantly easier.

Magnetic Dry Erase Board

As you wander around your cruise ship you’ll notice that lots of people have magnets all over their doors. Remember, the doors are made of metal! Some have pictures, some have decals, some have whole signs.

There are tons of options for cruise door decorations , and you’ll really feel like a veteran cruiser when you decorate your door!

My family loves having a magnetic dry erase board on our cabin doors when we cruise. Sometimes we decorate it with little drawings or notes for the day, and other times we jot a note down to the kids or friends letting them know where we are. It’s always a good idea to have one!

Necessary Cruise Travel Accessories

This next section lists all the accessories you want to bring with you on your cruise. These are important items that you don’t want to forget at home. Some of these you likely already have, like hats, sunglasses, and refillable water bottles. Others you may need to purchase if you’ve never been on a cruise before, like the luggage tags or towel clips.

• Luggage Tags

When taking a cruise, you need to attach a tag to your luggage indicating your name and cabin number. However, without a holder, these paper tags are prone to getting torn off, becoming wet, or otherwise becoming illegible. This could lead to quite a regrettable situation where the ship attendants are unable to deliver your luggage to your room.

To prevent this, it’s highly recommended to use a holder to secure the luggage tag. These luggage tags are ideal for attaching to your luggage and ensuring the tag remains visible and readable throughout your trip.

When you take a cruise you are given a sailing card. This serves as your ID, your door key, and your credit card. Therefore, you need to keep it with you at all times.

Instead of keeping it in a pocket where it can fall out, or a wallet where you have to keep retrieving it, use a badge holder on a lanyard . This is especially crucial for kids, to ensure they don’t lose their cards.

Towel Clips / Bands

Another helpful item to pack on a Caribbean cruise is a set of towel clips or towel bands . These are helpful for both keeping your towel on the chair the way you placed it, and also for helping you to distinguish your chair from the sea of identical looking ones on the deck. The wind can really pick up on cruise ships and you’ll be grateful you packed them.

• Waterproof Pouch

No matter where you go on your cruise, whether on the ship or off, you’re going to have your phone, money, and key card. You may also want to carry your ID or passport, or other valuables. Although, I do recommend leaving these particular items in your safe.

If you’re participating in any sort of water activity, even if you’re just swimming in the pools on deck, get a waterproof pouch to hold these items so you can keep them with you. I know I personally do not like leaving my phone or cash laying around on a chair or towel while I’m in the water.

These pouches have 3 separate closures on them and a velcro strap to hold it all down. They are fully submergible and have kept my phone and money perfectly dry in both the ocean and in pools. Just make sure you close them well, and try not to reach into them with wet hands or you kind of defeat the purpose!

• Refillable Water Bottle

Even though you can get whatever drinks your heart desires while on the ship, it’s always a good idea to have a refillable water bottle with you. I keep mine with me all the time, since I drink a lot of water throughout the day.

You definitely want to have one with you when you leave the ship to visit the ports or go on excursions, at the very least, like any of these Cozumel excursions . Fill it up before you leave the ship and you’re good to go!

Beach Hat and Sunglasses

The tropical sun on a Caribbean cruise means you should definitely bring some sort of hat. You can pick any type of hat you want – a baseball cap, a bucket hat, or my personal favorite, a floppy straw beach hat .

Now, remember that when the ship is sailing, it can be quite windy, so you’re typically not going to be wearing a floppy hat on sea days. But you definitely want to bring one for the ports, excursions, or beach breaks!

Make sure you bring sunglasses too. I actually recommend bringing an extra pair of sunglasses in case you lose or break your first one.

Much of the time you spend on a cruise ship is in your bathing suit. You need a cover up to wander around the ship or go into the buffet, so grab yourself a nice one like this.

You also can purchase coverups on the ship. Usually at the end of the cruise there are many items that go on sale and you can wind up getting some really great deals.

• Reusable Straws

Most places nowadays are trying to be more conscious of their environmental impact. One particular way in which we see companies manifest this is by using paper straws, or by the removal of straws altogether.

I hate paper straws, I’ll be honest here, but I very much appreciate the concern for our ocean life. So, bring a set of reusable straws like these with you for your beverages.

• Walkie-Talkies

Cell phones don’t work in the middle of the ocean, and the WiFi on ships is notoriously unreliable. Some cruise lines have a chat feature in their app that allows you to text with other members in your party, but even that is hit or miss.

To keep in touch with other members in your group, get a set of walkie-talkies . It’s a fun way to keep in contact with kids or other people you’re cruising with, and definitely beats wandering around the ship looking for each other.

Must-Have Personal Care Cruise Items

Most of these items are things you probably already have at home. This section details cruise essentials such as sunscreens and medications. Make sure you bring all items that you may need, as some of these can be very expensive to purchase on a cruise ship if you forget them at home or run out.

Don’t overlook the importance of sunscreen when visiting tropical destinations. The sun’s rays can be intense, and regardless of your skin tone, you are highly susceptible to getting sunburnt without proper protection.

It’s better to pack twice the amount of sunscreen you think you’ll need to ensure that you’re well-protected throughout your trip.

• Reef Safe Sunscreen

Not only should you bring sunscreen on your cruise, but it’s crucial to bring reef safe sunscreen if you plan on swimming in the ocean. Many tours and excursions will verify that your sunscreen is reef-safe before allowing you to take a dip. If it isn’t, you may need to buy some from them or skip the swim altogether.

The chemicals present in regular sunscreen can cause significant harm to the fragile marine life, which is why it’s imperative to use products that are safe for tropical waters.

Look for sunscreens that do not contain harmful chemicals such as oxybenzone, octocrylene, or octinoxate. Just because it says “reef safe” on the label does not actually mean that it is reef safe.

• Seasickness Medication

Some people experience seasickness on board a cruise ship, especially those who are already susceptible to motion sickness. Most modern cruise lines have technology to minimize the feeling of motion on board but I strongly recommend bringing sea sickness medication with you.

Dramamine is a well-known and popular medicine for helping with seasickness. It also comes in kids formulas . Bonine is another popular choice for seasickness medication. Scopolamine is a transdermal patch that is used for motion sickness as well, and requires a prescription.

Sea Bands utilize acupressure points on the wrist to prevent and alleviate seasickness. Even if you don’t anticipate experiencing seasickness, I highly recommend packing Sea Bands for your cruise.

The ocean can be unpredictable, and you may encounter rough waters unexpectedly. Having Sea Bands readily available in such situations can be a lifesaver, and you’ll be grateful for having them on hand.

Both my daughter and my husband experience motion sickness, and these Sea Bands are a lifesaver. I even keep a pair in my car at all times, just in case. They wear them for the entire length of our cruises and as long as they keep them on, they do not get seasick.

• After Sun Care

No matter how much sunscreen you bring on a cruise, there’s still a chance that you’re going to wind up with a sunburn at some point. It’s an almost unavoidable fact of being in the Caribbean sun.

With that said, do yourself a favor and get a bottle of this after sun care . It’s like magic in a bottle and will soothe your burned skin immediately upon application. It’s a miracle gel that isn’t sticky and works wonders, and you’ll be happy you brought it with you.

• First Aid Kit

Any time you go on a vacation it’s important to bring your medications, and a cruise is no exception to this. You absolutely want to bring any prescriptions you might have. Don’t forget glasses and/or contacts if you wear them!

It’s also a very good idea to bring various medications such as those for pain relief, fever, nausea, allergies, etc as these items may not be available onboard, or if they are they may be very expensive.

You may want to bring various first aid items with you as well. Bandaids in varying sizes always come in handy. I always bring an ace bandage in case of a rolled ankle, as well. I am extremely prone to sprained ankles, so I am always prepared for another one.

A First Aid Kit such as this one provides lots of various items you may need.

• Electrolyte Packs

Depending on your own habits and the type of cruise you’re on, you may find yourself in a situation where you, ahem, got a little carried away with indulging in delicious adult beverages. Or perhaps you simply haven’t been drinking enough water to keep up with the amount of sweat the sun is stealing from you.

Either way, it’s always a good idea to have a few electrolyte packs with you. Liquid IV is well-known for its ability to rehydrate you fast. You just mix a packet in your water and drink. This is definitely another “trust me on this one” essential cruise item to bring with you.

Hand Sanitizer

Cruise ships are notorious for spreading certain viruses around. Arm yourself against the nasty little bugs lurking on doorhandles and such by bringing some hand santizer with you.

Many folks nowadays always keep some with them anyway, and generally cruise ships do have dispensers throughout the ship. But I always think it’s a good idea to have your own stash just in case.

Cruise ships typically provide hair dryers in your cabin, so you don’t need to bring your own unless you are very specific about the type you like. Bring any other hair care appliance you may need, such as straighteners or curling wands.

Cruise ship toiletries leave much to be desired. If you are ok with a 2-in-1 or even a 3-in-1 shampoo/conditioner/body wash, then by all means, leave your products at home. If you’re anything like me, however, you prefer your own hair and body products. Grab small toiletries bottles like these ones and fill them with your own favorite products from home.

Ladies: Don’t forget menstrual products! Even if you’re not anticipating needing them, you may want to bring some just in case. We’ve all been caught off guard at one point, and menstrual items on board a cruise ship can be very expensive, and with limited options.

Cruise Travel Gear

Now we come to the essential gear you need for your cruise. Many of these items you likely already have if you’ve gone on vacation before, luggage for example, but some you may not have ever used, such as packing cubes.

You definitely want to have some sort of bag to tote around your stuff, both while you’re on the cruise ship and while you’re in the ports. Whether you choose a beach bag or a backpack is up to you, but you will have stuff to carry, so make your life easier by bringing a bag.

This doesn’t need much of an explanation. You need a good piece of luggage, or a good luggage set like this one, to get all your stuff from home to the cruise ship and back.

I personally prefer hardsided luggage myself. It feels like it protects the contents of my luggage better, since we all know how much the bags get thrown around. Samsonite is a well known and trusted brand of quality luggage.

• Packing Cubes

Packing cubes are an incredibly convenient way to pack for any trip, and a cruise is no exception to this. The packing cubes keep all your belongings sorted and organized so you can easily find exactly what you’re looking for.

They allow you to pack more efficiently, fitting more items in smaller spaces. They also help prevent clothes from wrinkling, which is a huge plus when going on a cruise, as you now know that you can’t bring an iron or steamer with you.

• Garment Bag

A good garment bag is essential for protecting your formalwear for your cruise. Garment bags help prevent wrinkles and creases in transport, and also will help keep your dressier clothes separate from everything else in your luggage. If something accidentally leaks or spills in your bag you know that your formalwear items will be spared.

• Carry On Bag

When you board your cruise, you need to have some sort of carry on bag. You may not have access to your luggage for a few hours, so you want certain things with you when you board.

In this carry on bag you should have a pair of sandals, a swimsuit and coverup, a change of clothes for dinner in case you don’t get your luggage in time, and all necessary documents. You also always should keep any valuables, money, ID or passport, and medications in your carry on bag.

Personally, I tend to use my beach bag above as a carry on, but some folks prefer a traditional carry on bag like this one.

Photographs are my favorite vacation souvenir. More often than not, I simply take photos with my phone. Most modern phones come equipped with quite powerful cameras nowadays. However, occasionally I prefer to use an actual camera to take pictures.

You may be perfectly content with simply using your phone to take pictures, but if you’d rather more professional looking photos I suggest bringing a camera with you like this one.

• Snorkel Gear

The Caribbean is renowned for snorkeling, and rightly so! Its warm waters are teeming with a diverse array of marine creatures, and the pristine clarity of the water provides unparalleled visibility. While snorkel gear is typically available to rent at most destinations, I highly recommend bringing your own to avoid using equipment that has been used by numerous others.

My daughter prefers the classic snorkel set, but personally I prefer the full faced style of snorkel mask . I find it much easier to breathe, plus it doesn’t fog up on me like the classic masks tend to. It also gives me a wider view, so I can enjoy more of what I’m seeing!

Complete List Of Cruise Travel Essentials

Below I’ve consolidated this list of 37 necessary cruise items so you can see them all in one place. Remember, you may not need everything on this list.

For example, if you booked a balcony room or a suite, you may not need to bring a portable fan, as your room will get plenty of air flow. Or if you are not the type to snorkel, or maybe you’re taking a cruise to Alaska, then snorkel masks are not essential cruise items for you.

Pack according to your own specific needs, but as long as you use our list as a guide, you will be able to avoid any unexpected hiccups on your trip.

• Dry Erase Board
• Towel Clips / Towel Bands
• Hand Santizer

Other Helpful Caribbean Information and Resources

My husband and I absolutely LOVE the Caribbean. It’s our go-to vacation location, whether with or without the kids. We visit via cruise ship, we stay in all-inclusive resorts, and go back time and time again. Here are some of our other articles about various Caribbean locations that you may find helpful and informative.

The Ultimate All Inclusive Packing List + FREE Printable Checklist

• The Best Stingray City Grand Cayman Tours
• 10 Best Cruise Excursions In Grand Cayman
• Dunn’s River Falls Jamaica – What You Need To Know
• The Ultimate Caribbean Cruise Packing List
• What NOT To Pack For A Caribbean Cruise
• Expert Advice and Tips For First Time Cruisers
• How To Pick A Cruise – Everything You Need To Know
• The Complete Review of Finest Punta Cana All-Inclusive Resort
• The Complete Review of Coconut Bay Resort In St. Lucia
• Why You Need To Visit Diamond Falls St. Lucia
• Sulphur Springs St. Lucia – How To Visit The World’s Only Drive In Volcano
• The 10 Best St. Lucia Piton Tours
• The Best St. Lucia Cruise Excursions
• Top 10 Best Cruise Excursions In Cozumel
• The Best 10 Costa Maya Cruise Excursions

Hi there! My name is Rachel, and I'm a travel enthusiast, writer, and lifelong learner. With over 16 years of marriage and two amazing kids, I've learned that traveling is one of the best ways to bond and create lasting memories with loved ones. I'll share everything I learn, from tips and tricks to specific product and business reviews, so you can make memories around the world too!

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20 Essential Things To Bring On A Cruise Ship

Plus, five things you should definitely leave at home.

A cruise is an incredibly convenient and often surprisingly affordable way to wake up in a new city or country every morning—and you’ll only need to unpack one time because you can see the whole world without having to switch hotels. It's no wonder that the Cruise Line Industry Association reported nearly 31.7 million passengers in 2023, a 7% increase from 2019.

Whether you choose a massive floating city in the middle of an ocean or a yacht-sized luxury ship set to meander down a famous river, it’s the perfect escape from reality. But that escape from reality can also make packing for a cruise a bit tougher than land-based travels, where you know you’ll always be able to pop into a shop to buy anything important you’ve forgotten. Here are the things to bring on a cruise ship and some items you should leave at home.

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Beyond The Basics

To be fair, most ships do offer a sundries shop and a few boutiques, but there isn’t a wide selection, and the hours are quite limited. That’s why it’s crucial for first-time cruisers and enthusiasts alike to consult a cruise packing list while preparing for their trip so you'll have items you may need in a pinch immediately accessible.

We’ll assume you have undergarments, a basic wardrobe (including daywear, swimwear, and evening wear), toiletries, and your luggage squared away, and we will zero in on some of the items that’ll help make your travels more relaxing, comfortable, and organized. Plus, we’ll provide some guidance on a handful of items that are better left at home, either for safety and policy reasons, or because they simply waste precious space in your suitcase . Make sure to save room for these items before you head out to sea.

Backpack or Beach Bag for Excursions

When you disembark the ship for daily excursions, whether you’re headed to a chill beach day or a strenuous hike, you’ll need a place to stash all your bulky goodies—towels, water bottles, sun hats, camera equipment, bug spray, suntan lotion, etc. The backpack you brought on the plane as your carry-on item can serve double duty as the bag you take off the ship each day, or you can bring a separate, foldable beach bag or tote for this purpose.

If you plan to do separate activities from others in your party, make sure everyone has their own bag so they aren’t left juggling too many things in their pockets.

Universal Travel Adapter With USB Ports 

Between your phones, tablets, camera equipment, smart watches, headphones, and any other gadgets you and your travel companions might bring, outlets are at a serious premium in cruise cabins. And some cruise lines —such as Holland America Line and Windstar Cruises, for instance—split the available outlets in each cabin between U.S. 110-volt outlets and European 220-volt outlets (which means you won't be able to use all of them if you didn’t plan ahead). To make matters worse, very few cruise lines have upgraded to include in-room USB ports (though you will find them on a handful of Royal Caribbean ships, for example).

Instead, come prepared with a universal travel adapter that’ll work in any of the outlets. (Bonus: You’ll also need this if you plan to spend any pre- or post-cruise travel nights in a hotel in another country.) Choose a model with a few USB ports as well, so you can charge multiple devices simultaneously.

Your Passport 

You’ll be hard-pressed to get very far without your passport, even if your cruise is mostly in the United States, like the California Coast cruises Princess Cruises offers. That’s because most of these cruises stop in Canada or Mexico.

And even if you do have a passport, it’s crucial to double-check the expiration date ahead of time; many countries require you to have more than six months left before expiration (there are some exceptions).

Of course, there are some cruises that depart from and return to a U.S. port of entry (known as a closed-loop sailing), in which case you wouldn’t need a passport. But be sure you read the itinerary carefully so you don’t wind up turned away at the cruise terminal on embarkation day.

Magnetic Hooks

It’s hard keeping a small cruise ship cabin organized. While many cruise lines thoughtfully make the most of storage with various nooks, closets, and drawers, it’s amazing how quickly you can run out of room for everything. Fun fact: Most cabin walls are magnetic, which means you can bring a few magnetic hooks along to maximize unused wall space.

What can you use these hooks for? Hanging jackets, umbrellas, hats, robes, bags, swimwear, and more. It’s a genius move you’ll come to rely on, cruise after cruise.

Seasickness Solutions

Most cruise ships are so stable these days that seasickness may seem unlikely, but you never know when rough seas might take you by surprise. There are many over-the-counter solutions available, including medications (such as Dramamine or Bonine), acupressure wristbands, ginger candy, and even high-tech wearable gadgets. If you know that you’re prone to motion sickness, talk to your doctor about prescription options, including a Scopolamine patch worn behind the ear, prior to your cruise.

Waterproof Phone Pouch

Turn any phone into a waterproof camera with an inexpensive waterproof pouch. With one of these, you can confidently take your phone on a snorkeling expedition or to the beach or pool without worrying about splashes or an accidental drop into the deep end.

As a bonus, this type of pouch doubles as a safe and dry place to stash your cash, ID, and credit card so you don’t have to risk leaving them on the beach when you’re ready to take a refreshing dip. One more handy use: This will also allow you to take photos up on deck or from your balcony during inclement weather.

Embarkation Day Bag

Embarkation day, the day you first board the cruise ship and your vacation officially begins, is super exciting, but it can also be a bit hectic. Your suitcase will be delivered to your room just as soon as the crew can get to it, but that could take several hours (and in rare cases, even longer) given the sheer volume of luggage being managed. That’s why it’s always a good idea to carry on a special embarkation day bag (which can be your aforementioned tote, beach bag, or backpack) filled with anything you might need access to on day one: medications, a change of clothes (perhaps a swimsuit so you can go enjoy the pool or evening attire if you plan to have an early dinner in the dining room), electronics and their corresponding chargers, sunglasses, and more. It’s also a handy spot to store your passport, cruise documents, boarding pass, and cash before placing them in your in-room safe.

Sun and Insect Protection 

It doesn’t matter if you’re cruising around the Caribbean, down the Rhine, or through Alaska’s Inside Passage, there will be insects and sunshine to contend with, and you’ll want to be prepared. This means ensuring your cruise packing list has things like hats , sunglasses, sunscreen , insect repellent , and after-sun calming lotion on it. Yes, you can find many of these items in the ship’s retail shop if needed, but you'll often pay a premium and won't have your choice of brands.

Cash for Tipping and Shopping

While most cruise lines are essentially cash-free these days and will even place crew gratuities on your credit card, there are some instances when you’ll need cash.

First, it’s recommended to tip $5 (half-day) to $10 (full-day) per person to your tour guides and drivers during excursions.

Second, some shopping areas (such as markets and street vendors) don’t accept credit cards—and you may even be able to negotiate a better price with cash, as shopkeepers are keen on avoiding credit card transaction fees that eat into their profits.

Finally, if you feel your cabin steward, server, or maître d’ did a truly exceptional job going above and beyond, you may want to tip them a little extra cash at the end of the cruise to show your gratitude.

Prescription and Over-the-Counter Medication

Even though there’s a doctor onboard, they aren't a pharmacy. You’ll need to pack your prescription medications because they certainly don’t carry every type or dosage, nor do they have enough supply. In fact, go ahead and pack a little extra if you have it because you never know when travel delays could keep you on the road a bit longer than expected.

It’s also a good idea to pack some OTC meds you may need as well, such as allergy pills for the foreign flora you’ll come into contact with, antacid tablets if you hit those buffets a bit too hard, and ibuprofen for the aches and pains associated with getting more exercise than you’re used to or attempting too many flights of stairs.

Portable Charger

Even if you remember to bring the appropriate charger for each of your electronic devices, that won’t help you top off your battery while on an eight-hour excursion. Since there’s nothing worse than running out of juice at the precise moment you want to snap the photo memory of a lifetime, go ahead and add a portable charger to your cruise packing list. It’ll be a huge relief to have a backup battery available (especially if you decided to skip a formal excursion and you’re using your phone’s map to navigate your way around a city), and many of the models available fit easily into a purse or pocket. 

Refillable Bottle

Buying bottles of water on board the ship can cost upwards of $6 each, which can turn into a small fortune for a couple or family over the course of a week, You’ll always want a bottle or two handy when you leave the ship. Instead, bring a refillable bottle with you and refill it in the buffet or at filling stations. You’ll save a ton of money and help reduce the toll single-use plastic takes on our planet (especially in our oceans).

First-Aid Kit

While there is medical assistance onboard a cruise ship, it’s not always open and it could be expensive for something you normally handle at home. For a minor injury, you can save yourself time by bringing a small first-aid kit with you. It will also help when you are off the ship for excursions and activities. Buy a premade kit or make your own with things you already have at home. Pack a small bag with bandages, gauze pads, medical tape, antibiotic ointment, and hand sanitizer.

Important Documents and Contacts

Make sure to bring trip itineraries, flight and hotel information, and copies of documentation with you. Keep copies separate from the originals in case important information gets lost. You should also bring phone numbers of important contacts from home, such as your credit card company, family and friends, and emergency contacts in case your phone is lost or damaged.

After a day of activities, you may think sleep will come easily, but if your neighbors are still up having fun, a pair of earplugs will come in handy. They’ll also help muffle the noise of all the early activity going on on the ship if you want to sleep in.

Plastic Bags

Bring ziptop bags, grocery bags , or waterproof drybags along. You’ll find so many uses for them. Use them to keep wet items separate from everything else in your bag when you head out on excursions. If your backpack or beach bag isn’t waterproof, protect your wallet, phone, book, and other important items from rain, accidental spills, or wet activities like kayaking. Pack dirty shoes, dirty laundry, and liquids in them for the return trip home.

Hand Sanitizer or Wipes

Many cruise ships have hand sanitizer stations throughout, but bring your own bottle along so you won’t have to hunt one down when you need it. Some passengers aren’t as mindful about handwashing, so using hand sanitizer is a good idea around high-touch areas like the buffet line and hand railings. Pack some disinfecting wipes too in case you need to wipe down surfaces in your room, on deck, or on an excursion.

Since space is limited in cruise ship cabins, an over-the-door shoe organizer can help keep small things right where you need them. It can be inexpensive and fold up so it won’t take up much room in your suitcase either. Use one to hold toiletries, sunscreen, cords and chargers, hand sanitizer, earplugs, sunglasses, and more. To ensure it won’t damage the door, hang it from the rod or hangers in the closet.

Passengers use cruise key cards for more than getting into their rooms. The cards get you on and off the ship and pay for any expenses. A lanyard keeps it handy so you don’t have to dig through your bag for it and keeps you from accidentally leaving it in the pockets of your other pants when you go to dinner. If you don’t have one at home, buy one on the ship.

You may change time zones while out at sea. Bring a wristwatch or other way to tell time to keep up with the ship’s itinerary and make sure you return to the ship from an excursion on time before it leaves port. With so many activities aboard the ship and off, you’ll want to make sure you’re on time. An alarm will also help you get up on time to see the sunrise or get up early enough to make the most of the day’s excursions.

Things To Leave Behind

It may be tempting to bring fine jewelry for a formal dinner or those dazzling red heels that go with only one of your dresses, but some things should be left at home to help maximize your space and avoid losing a beloved item. Some things simply aren't allowed on a cruise. Here are some things you probably won't miss on your cruise and should leave at home.

High-End Jewelry 

Cruise ship attire just isn’t as fancy as it used to be, and while some cruise lines still host formal nights, there’s just no need to be draped in your grandmother’s special occasion pearls or don the family heirloom cufflinks . Yes, there’s a safe in your cabin closet (which should definitely be used for jewelry, cash, passports, and other valuables), but why take an unnecessary risk on irreplaceable jewels? Use this opportunity to play around with fun accessories and costume jewelry that won’t leave you brokenhearted if they get lost or damaged. 

Too Many Shoes

Footwear can be the hardest part of paring down your cruise packing list, but do your best to think practically. You can probably make do with four pairs on most cruises: one pair of sneakers/hiking boots (depending on the itinerary and your excursions), one pair of beach shoes (flip flops or closed-toe water shoes), one pair of dressy shoes that match all your evening outfits (for women, perhaps it’s a nude heel or wedge; for men a pair of neutral loafers), and one pair of daytime sandals. You’ll eliminate so much weight and bulk from your luggage in the process.

Cruise ships are known for feeding their passengers well (and often). There’s little chance that you’ll go hungry when you have access to multiple dining venues and room service 24/7. Sure, you may want to bring a couple of protein bars to pop in your bag in case you need a little nosh during a long day at the beach, but that’s about it. You can always grab fruit (bananas, apples, etc.) from the buffet to take on your excursions as well. Make sure any food you bring is dry, prepackaged, and sealed. Homemade food won't be allowed onboard.

Clothes Iron and Steamer

Many cruise lines have policies forbidding the use of clothes irons and steamers and won’t allow these fire hazards onboard. Try spraying wrinkly garments with wrinkle spray, then hang them in the bathroom during a hot shower . The bathrooms are so small that it may create a little steam bath that releases those wrinkles.

Another option is to make use of the self-service laundry rooms on some ships. If you find one, it’ll likely have an ironing station you can use free of charge. If all else fails, most cruise lines offer wash and press services for a nominal fee.

Most every cruise line has specific rules in place when it comes to their alcohol policy. For instance, some cruise lines don't allow guests to bring liquor onboard, but some allow you to bring one bottle of wine or Champagne per adult. You’ll then be charged a $20 corkage fee to drink it in one of the dining venues (so you may want to use that for pre-dinner purposes or a nightcap in your cabin). Similarly, some cruise lines will store any alcohol purchased in port until the end of your cruise. However some higher-end cruise lines have no limitations or corkage fees, so it’s always best to check the restrictions for your specific cruise line ahead of time.

Cruise Lines International Association. 2024 State of the Cruise Industry Report .

Related Articles

Cruise Packing List: 56 Essentials Chosen by Experts

P acking for any trip takes some planning, but cruise vacations present a unique challenge – particularly due to limited stateroom storage space and sparse (or overpriced) options for purchasing accidentally forgotten items.

To help you decide what to pack for a cruise, we've curated a list of essentials recommended by cruise experts who regularly sail the high seas. Download the U.S. News Cruise Packing List pictured above to reference while you pack, and read on to learn more about the recommended items and where you can purchase them if needed.

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Carry-on bag

Regardless of whether you bring checked luggage, you'll need some type of carry-on bag . Since checked bags need to go through security as they do at airports – and because you may need to wait for your stateroom to be ready, just like at a hotel – you'll want to be able to access any necessities pre-cruise. These might include a swimsuit, sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat for the pools; medications; a bottle of water; and your smartphone, of course. You'll also want to keep your credit card , passport, and any other important documentation or valuables close by. A carry-on backpack works especially well since it can double as a day bag for shore excursions.

Checked bag

While you'll likely want to bring a checked bag, consider sharing one with your ship mate(s) to maximize stateroom storage space. Or, consider bringing medium-sized luggage, such as the The Medium by Away , for checking in.

Read: The Best Checked Luggage Options

Garment bag

While many cruises are less formal these days, a garment bag can still be handy for keeping select garments wrinkle-free (since clothing irons are prohibited on cruise ships). Top-rated options include the The Garment Duffel by Halfday and the Briggs and Riley Baseline 22" Carry-On 2-Wheel Garment Bag , both of which double as traditional luggage. If you pack your luggage right, you can make this your only suitcase, in addition to a carry-on bag.

Packing cubes or vacuum-sealed bags

Packing cubes are one of the best ways to organize your belongings for travel – especially in a tight cruise ship cabin. Top-rated options include the Veken packing cubes on Amazon (usually priced around $20) and all of the Pack-It Sets by Eagle Creek. The Pack-It Starter Set is especially ideal for cruising since it includes a garment folder designed to minimize wrinkles in clothing. Some cruisers also swear by vacuum-sealed bags , even though they can be a bit more tedious to pack.

Carry-on caddy

Ashley Kosciolek, senior cruise writer at The Points Guy, recommends a carry-on caddy , particularly if you're flying to your embarkation point. "I have a fabric sleeve that slides down over the telescoping handle on my carry-on to provide pockets for my passport, phone, coffee – all the things I used to have to juggle during check-in."

Digital luggage scale

The compact Etekcity scale – approximately $10 on Amazon – can weigh bags up to 110 pounds and help you avoid overweight baggage fees.

Bungee cord

"Especially for travelling with the family, I use a bright-green bungee cord to strap multiple pieces of luggage together," says Aaron Saunders, senior editor at Cruise Critic. "It's a lifesaver when boarding trains or disembarking ships, particularly when you ' re maneuvering a stroller and a little one around, too."

Luggage tracker

A luggage tracker isn't just useful for air travel. Attach one to your checked cruise luggage to see when it has arrived in your stateroom (or if it's stalled at security). Chris Gray Faust, executive editor at Cruise Critic, doesn't go anywhere without her Apple AirTag after her luggage got stuck in Vancouver for over a week last June. "My AirTag use has expanded beyond my checked luggage, too. I also have AirTags in my handbag, my carry-on, my keychain and my wallet."

Cruise insurance

Due to the unpredictable nature of travel, cruise insurance can be a wise purchase ahead of your voyage. Travel policies can cover unforeseen expenses such as trip interruptions and medical emergencies.

While a passport is often required for cruising, rules can vary depending where you're traveling. Determine whether you need a passport for your upcoming cruise ; if you do, triple-check that you have it packed the day of departure.

Credit cards and local currency

When cruising internationally, consider getting small amounts of each country's currency to have on hand in port. Depending where you go, some local markets may only accept their own country's currency, not U.S. dollars or credit cards. It's also nice to leave cash gratuities for cab drivers, tour guides or servers; in the European Union, 1- and 2-euro coins are convenient and appropriate tips. In ports with vendors that do accept credit cards, be sure to carry a Visa or Mastercard , as some shops and restaurants do not take American Express .

RFID wallet

It's important to protect your travel documents with an RFID wallet like the TIGARI Passport Holder or the ZOPPEN RFID Travel Passport Wallet , the latter of which can hold multiple passports for a family. "Thieves and hackers can steal your credit card information just by using skimming devices," explains Jill Schildhouse, a cruise expert and U.S. News contributor who always travels with her RFID wallet. "And because your wallet wasn't even touched, you won't know it happened until you see your credit card statement."

Medications

Pack more than enough of your prescription medications as well as any over-the-counter medicines you'll need, just in case you encounter an itinerary change or travel delay. While some travelers find it easiest to bring personal medicines in their prescription bottles, others find travel pill boxes to be especially helpful for organization. The Sukuos Weekly Pill Organizer is a well-rated option, with detachable boxes for each day as well as compartments for morning and evening medications.

Sheet masks

Since flying can be so drying for the skin, Faust likes to use sheet masks. "My first step the night before I board (because you should always fly in a day early) is to hydrate with a sheet mask (usually from a Korean brand like Ballon Blanc or FaceTory )," she says. "If I'm meeting up with a friend, I bring an extra sheet mask so our trip starts out feeling a bit like a spa day!"

Magnetic hooks

A surprising fact: Cruise ship cabin walls are made of metal, which means you can optimize your storage space by hanging some of your belongings on magnetic wall hooks. The hooks are perfect for holding bulky coats or boots if you're traveling to a colder climate. You can also use them for wet gear on expedition ships and adventure cruises, or for drying out bathing suits after days at the beach or pool. Purchase a set of magnetic hooks for less than $10 on Amazon .

Like hotels, cruise ships can only provide so many hangers. Bring a few extras from home or pick up a pack from your local dollar store. You might also try packable hangers .

Wrinkle release spray

Whether or not you bring a garment bag, a travel-size bottle of wrinkle release spray, such as Downy Wrinkle Releaser spray , is useful to have on board. If you combine a spritz or two with the steam from your shower, you should be able to smooth out some of the wrinkles in your clothing.

Laundry detergent

"If you don't want to pay for laundry service or spend precious time in the self-service laundry room, bring a small bottle of laundry detergent like Woolite to wash key items in the sink: underwear, bras, quick-dry hiking shorts, bathing suits, etc.," recommends Schildhouse. "Every cruise ship shower has a retractable clothesline you can extend to drape the clothes over while they dry. This can also help cut down on the number of items you need to pack."

Over-the-door organizers

Over-the-door organizers with clear or mesh pockets allow you to find your feminine hygiene products, makeup, jewelry and other small items quickly – without having to hunt through multiple drawers or a tight stateroom closet. It's a good idea to purchase a two-pack like this option by Simple Houseware Store (available on Amazon), since you can also use one to store shoes and maximize floor space.

It goes without saying, but to say it anyway: A toilet spray like Poo-Pourri is a must for your cruise packing list. Any smell – pleasant or not – will travel quickly in small staterooms with small bathrooms. Buy a travel-size bottle to keep in your cabin.

Shampoo and conditioner

Cruise experts agree it's best to bring your own shampoo and conditioner in travel-size bottles, as most cruise ships don't provide separate shampoo and conditioner anymore; instead, they offer all-in-one dispensers. Colleen McDaniel, editor-in-chief at Cruise Critic, likes to pack her shampoo and conditioner in the popular Cadence Capsules , noting she also uses them for another essential: sunscreen. "These capsules are easy to fill, never leak and have clear labels, which you can customize," she says.

Wine or Champagne

Most major cruise lines allow each guest to bring one to two bottles of wine or Champagne on board, while some luxury cruise lines allow even more than that. Disney Cruise Line also gives guests the option to bring a six-pack of beer instead of wine or Champagne. Be sure to consult your cruise line's policies when packing for your trip.

If you plan to bring wine or Champagne, you'll likely need a corkscrew . While some cruise lines may prohibit corkscrews, others allow them onboard; check your cruise line's policy before sailing. Bringing wine with a twistable cap may be a good alternative.

Portable humidifier

Cruise ship cabins can feel dry – especially in the colder months. A portable humidifier like the GENIANI Erie (around $25 on Amazon) can provide some relief. At about half a pound, this USB-powered device will fit neatly into your checked bag or carry-on luggage. The travel humidifier features two mist settings and has an automatic shut-off option, plus a night light to help you see around your cabin in the dark.

International travel adapter or converter

You'll likely need a travel adapter, since cruise lines homeported in international locales may have different electrical sockets and voltage strengths than you're used to in the U.S.

McDaniel recommends the OneWorld65 Travel Adapter . "I've used a lot of different travel adapters over the years, but this is my favorite. It charges up to six devices at once, has USB and mini-USB options, and works in over 200 countries," she says. "While many cruise ships have U.S. outlets, most usually also have European outlets. This adapter lets me take advantage of that outlet I'd otherwise ignore." She also notes that while cruise lines are getting better about having more outlets on their ships, it never feels like enough to keep your phone, camera battery, tablet, watch, headphones/earbuds and laptop charged (times two or more if you're traveling with others).

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Sound machine

Cruise experts agree a sound machine can be helpful for blocking out the sound of late-night partiers returning to their staterooms (or your snoring spouse). Schildhouse likes the LectroFan Micro 2 for cruising. "It plays non-looping white noise and doubles as a speaker to play tunes while you get ready for dinner."

Tech organizer

A tech organizer like the BAGSMART electronics organizer case – available on Amazon for about $20 – can store all your cables, plugs, SD cards and earphones in one zippered, compact bag that will fit easily in your carry-on luggage. Despite its small size, it can also hold bulkier items like a small laptop charging cord.

First-aid kit

A first-aid kit is a good thing to have on hand no matter where you go. You can make your own using supplies you already have at home, or buy a premade first-aid kit on Amazon for about $20. While all cruise ships have medical facilities, it's useful to have these items with you on shore excursions, especially those involving active adventures.

Hand sanitizer

Regularly washing your hands and/or using hand sanitizer is essential to staying healthy while traveling, especially on a cruise ship. Stock up on a few travel-size bottles of hand sanitizer (less than $2 each at Walmart) ahead of your trip. If you're looking for something with less alcohol that's also less drying, check out Babyganics Alcohol-Free Foaming Hand Sanitizer .

If you're a parent, you know that your infant or toddler needs a very specific size – and in some cases brand – of diapers, which may very well be unavailable to you on your cruise ship or in the ports of call. Bring more than enough diapers to play it safe at sea.

Most cruise lines also require that non-toilet-trained infants and toddlers wear swim diapers in the children's water play areas. For the sake of sanitation, kids must be toilet-trained to use the pools on cruise ships.

Many cruisers like to personalize their cabin with stateroom door decor. Not only is it a fun tradition, but decorating the door can make it easier to locate your room, too. You can find lots of fun decor ideas on Pinterest as well as Amazon.

" Duct tape is a life-saver in many situations," says Kosciolek. "I primarily use it to attach my printed luggage tags, but it's also great for mending clothing issues on the fly and fixing broken luggage until you can get it back home."

"As a parent, I like to bring lanyards with sleeves so my kids can wear their keycards and not lose them," says Erica Silverstein, senior cruise editor at The Points Guy. "We hang them on the magnetic hooks I put on the wall, so they don't get lost in the cabin either."

If you're prone to (or think you may be prone to) motion sickness on cruise ships, put a pair of Sea-Bands on your cruise packing list. These soft wristbands use acupressure to prevent and minimize nausea and vomiting on board, and they are a reusable, drug-free alternative to traditional anti-nausea medications. You can purchase Sea-Bands on Amazon or at most drugstores.

If you need something a bit stronger than Sea-Bands (or to use in conjunction with them), Dramamine remains a tried-and-true solution for both preventing and treating sea sickness. Choose the Less Drowsy formula to avoid getting sleepy, and consider the chewable tablets (dye-free) if traveling with kids who are prone to queasiness. Many travelers like Bonine as a remedy for sea sickness as well.

Mix-and-match clothing

Pack a variety of mix-and-match items, also known as a capsule wardrobe, for your cruise. To do this, choose a base color – black or navy blue – for your wardrobe. Next, pack plain, neutral-colored items, then add a few patterned items to the mix. Remember to include a variety of styles (T-shirts, long-sleeved shirts, pants, shorts, dresses, rompers and jumpsuits) and also consider reversible clothing and outfits that can easily transition from day to night.

Sports jacket or blazer

Adam Coulter, executive editor of Cruise Critic UK & Australia, recommends packing a sports jacket or blazer. "While cruise lines are getting more casual, what happens if you get that last-minute invite to meet the captain, or there's a meet and mingle where you want to look put together? A jacket will always elevate your elegance (even if you're wearing a T-shirt underneath)," he says. If you're in need of a travel blazer, Bluffworks has some well-rated options; the Gramercy , in particular, gets great reviews.

Themed party attire

Some cruise lines host themed voyages or parties on select nights where passengers can dress up to participate in the fun. You'll want to review your cruise itinerary before you go so you're prepared for the festivities. Bring your buccaneer gear if you're sailing aboard Disney Cruise Line; ships host fun events like Pirate Nights, pirate-themed dinners and a "Pirates in the Caribbean" show. On "The Love Boat"-themed cruises offered by Princess Cruises , pack your platform boots, glittery dresses, bell-bottom pants and halter tops for the line's 1970s-inspired disco party on the deck. No matter the theme, you can't go wrong with a couple of captain hats .

Travel wrap

A travel wrap is a versatile accessory that's useful for any trip – even more so on a cruise ship where it can get chilly when the sea breeze picks up. Available in nearly 10 different colors, J.Crew's Oversized Cashmere Wrap is a timeless staple, albeit a bit of an investment; for something less expensive but well rated, try this off-brand pashmina shawl on Amazon .

Packable jacket

If you're cruising to a cold weather destination such as Alaska, you'll need something heavier than a travel wrap, but not so bulky that it requires additional luggage. Consider a packable jacket that folds easily and compactly; travel experts highly recommend the Patagonia Nano Puff Jacket .

Packable hat

If you're headed to the Caribbean or another warm weather destination, you'll want a beach hat to protect your scalp and face from the sun. This packable straw hat by FURTALK (available on Amazon for about $25) is a stylish women's option that features a broader brim and offers UPF 50 sun protection.

Comfortable walking shoes

Even if you never step foot off the ship, there is still plenty of walking to do between bow and stern. Closed-toe shoes or sandals with straps are safer than flimsy flip-flops when boarding a slippery tender into port (if your ship can't dock directly). Check out our recommendations for the most comfortable walking shoes , which include the popular Allbirds Wool Runners and the ECCO Yucatan Sandals .

Water shoes

Depending on your scheduled shore excursions, you might also need a pair of water shoes. For something that's both functional and fashionable, Crocs' Classic Clogs are a good option. While not totally waterproof, the Native Jefferson is a water-friendly, versatile option.

Versatile heels

"Over the years, I've learned that the key to avoiding overpacking is to bring one neutral pair of low heels that match every single eveningwear outfit I've packed – from flowy pants to dresses," says Schildhouse, who loves her Rockport Tabitha 2-Strap Heeled Sandals . "They have a cushioned footbed and shock-absorbing heel so you can dance the night away in the club, and a 3-inch block heel with traction to keep you steady on your feet even if the ship's rocking a bit."

Reusable water bottle

A reusable water bottle is useful for filling up at water and beverage stations on your cruise ship; it's also a necessity for shore excursions.

Bathing suit

Pack a couple of swimsuits for the pools, hot tubs and any shore excursions.

Swim cover-up

Another must-have for your cruise packing list is a swimsuit cover-up or two. These are great for wearing over your bathing suit during days at sea, as well as on excursions – especially if you're going on a Caribbean cruise . Amazon sells a variety of stylish, affordable cover-ups, and you can never go wrong with a classic white button-down shirt .

Dry bags are useful for shore excursions where you're likely to get wet but don't want the same to be true for your phone, camera and other precious items. "I use the Outdoor Research Unisex Dry Isolation Pack  and have never had so much as a drop of moisture enter it, which is important for me – it keeps my cameras, documents and important items from getting wet," says Saunders, adding that it functions as a great everyday backpack when it's not raining.

If you need more than one dry bag, cruise expert Brittany Chrusciel recommends the Sea to Summit Lightweight Dry Bag Set . "Having these dry bags, in a variety of sizes, means I can bring all my gear along during a Zodiac cruise or snorkeling excursion without having to worry about it getting wet."

Waterproof phone case

A waterproof phone case is also essential, especially if you plan to take photos. The Hiearcool Waterproof Phone Pouches (available in a two-pack) come with a lanyard so you can both protect your phone and wear it around your neck. They are compatible with most smartphones.

"I like to bring collapsible pails, small shovels , inflatable beach toys, a floppy Frisbee or other things to entertain the kids on the beach if we're going to a private island or beach destination," says Silverstein. "If you can inflate your own inner tube, you don't need to rent a floating mat."

Beach towel

"Although cruise lines provide guests with towels to take off the ship on excursions, they are often bulky and sometimes small," explains Chrusciel. "The Surfer Towel folds up to nearly nothing, so it takes up almost no room in your suitcase and is super convenient to pack in a day bag. What's more, its quick-drying technology means that the lightweight fabric won't be soaking wet when you need to pack up for the day and head back to the ship."

Towel clips

"Even though giant plastic towel clips shaped like a flamingo are a bit cringey, they make it easy to find your spot in a sea of sun loungers," says Chrusciel. "They also solve a common cruise problem: keeping your towel securely fixed to your chair while reading or sunbathing."

Reef-safe sunscreen

When choosing a sunscreen, look for something that's reef-safe; not only are these sunscreens safer for the environment, but they're also better for you . The active ingredients in reef-safe sunscreens, also known as mineral sunscreens, are zinc oxide, titanium dioxide or a combination of both. Top-rated mineral sunscreen brands include Think , Badger and Raw Elements , all of which also sell lip balm with sunscreen (another essential at sea).

After-sun lotion

You'll want an extra dose of moisturizer if you've been basking in the sun. COOLA makes an after-sun body lotion that cools and hydrates the skin with aloe vera, agave and lavender oil. Previous buyers rave about this lotion, noting they appreciate that the scent isn't overpowering.

A good book

Sea days are the perfect time to kick back and relax with a book you've been meaning to read. Find an oceanfront lounge chair in a shaded area on the pool deck, or grab a cup of tea and settle into a quiet nook indoors. There's no need to pack more than one book, however, as many cruise ships have libraries.

What not to pack for a cruise

Power strip.

Many cruise lines do not permit power strips as they present a fire hazard, while others allow them as long as they are non-surge-protected. Instead of a power strip, purchase a portable charger such as this highly rated one by Anker , which can power up multiple devices at once. This can be especially useful for shore excursions. When packing for your cruise, also think about your luggage: If it has an included charging port, you may not even need to purchase an additional charging block.

Weapons and restraints

Firearms, handcuffs and the like are not permitted on cruise ships. This rule also includes toy guns on most cruise lines.

While most major cruise lines allow guests to pack a limited amount of wine or Champagne per person, they do not permit hard liquor. Of course, those of age can purchase cocktails at any of the bars on board.

Household appliances

Irons and steamers are not permitted on cruise ships, which is why the aforementioned garment bags, wrinkle release spray and packing cubes are recommended for keeping clothing tidy and neat. Coffee makers and mug warmers are also prohibited.

While you can technically bring you own, it's not necessary as hairdryers are available in every bathroom on most ships.

CBD and marijuana

CBD that's derived from hemp and contains 0.3% THC or less is legal at a federal level. However, each state interprets and enforces this law differently; for example, many states require a prescription for it. Due to the ambiguity of the laws, most cruise lines continue to ban CBD in any form.

Marijuana remains illegal under U.S. federal law, which means you cannot bring it on a cruise ship – even if you're legally able to purchase it in your home state for recreational or medical use.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

For the U.S. News Cruise Packing List, travel writers Gwen Pratesi and Amanda Norcross tapped leading industry experts for their cruise essentials. They regularly update this checklist with new and useful items to pack.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Cruise Lines
• The Best Adults-Only Cruises
• The Best All-Inclusive Cruises

Copyright 2024 U.S. News & World Report

50+ Must-have Cruise Essentials from Amazon in 2024

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If you’re cruising in the near future, you may be creating a list of Amazon cruise essentials to bring on your cruise. These cruise accessories and travel gadgets can be really useful for space-saving and more!

Cruising is the type of travel experience, where you want to be prepared with everything you need in advance. I’ve learned from experience, if you think you might need it, you better bring it from home. 

In this post, I share some of the most useful things to bring on a cruise, from things that help with packing for a cruise to genius items that will organize your cruise cabin space.

In addition, I’ll include a few items you may not have thought of bringing on a cruise, but really should be on your cruise packing list ! You may even have some of these things at home already.

Cruise Essentials Packing List – Amazon Must-haves

This post contains affiliate links which means if you click and buy that I may make a commission, at no cost to you. Please see my disclosure policy for details.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Amazon Prime Free Trial

Amazon Prime comes with many benefits, including faster, free delivery, movies and TV shows (Prime TV) and even borrowing Kindle books. If you don’t already have Amazon Prime, check out the FREE 30 day trial .

Here are some of Amazon’s most popular cruise travel essentials and accessories that pro cruisers swear by!

Before we get started, you might be wondering if you need all 50 items on this list. Of course, you’ll want to pick and choose. Not every travel item needs to be packed for every cruise!

However, the items that are included, are some of the most popular and well reviewed cruise essentials sold on Amazon.

As well, this post has been updated to include some new cruising essentials for 2024.

Many of these items are things that I bring and use on my own cruises. I’ve included a couple YouTube videos below, if you’d like to see the items and have more information.

Recommended Cruise Accessories to Pack for a Cruise

These items are useful to organize your cruise stateroom , for packing and to use onboard your cruise ship.

1. Cruise Approved Power Bar

It’s surprising, but most cruise ship cabins have only 1 or 2 electric plugs. If you’re bringing electronic items like phones, pads, speakers, go-pros and anything else, you’ll really want more plugs, and even USB’s.

Very important – Cruise lines don’t allow you to bring a regular surge-protected power bar from home (they will confiscate). It’s very important to have a non-surge protected one that is “cruise approved” .

2. Non-Surge Power Cubes with USB-C

A new cruise accessory I’ve found is smaller travel size power cube which includes a USB-C plug.

Recommended: No-surge power bar cube with 6 outlets (check 5* amazon reviews)

3. Over the Door Hanging Organizer 

Cruisers are masters at using small cruise cabin space efficiently . An over the door organizer is very practical to store items you and your family will use often. You can hang this on your bathroom door or even use magnet hooks to hang on a cabin wall.

Pro tip: Pack your over the door organizer at home and place it in your suitcase, ready to hang. It will save so much time on your embarkation day .

4. Magnetic Cabin Hooks

One of the best ways to add storage space to your cruise stateroom is to use magnet hooks to hang backpacks, sunhats and bathing suits to dry. Cruise cabin walls are metal, so using magnets is an awesome cruise cabin hack !

Recommended: 6 pack Magnetic Hooks (these are “heavy duty”)

5. Magnetic Clips

Another cruise essential that really won’t be on other types of travel packing lists, are magnetic wall clips . Funny but cool cruise fact – cruise cabin walls are metal.

Why bring magnet clips? On a cruise, you’ll have some paper cruise planners, shore excursion tickets, and invitations to events on your cruise that tend to clutter up your desk and counter space. Use some magnetic clips to hang these items on the wall.

Recommended: Magnetic clips (see 4.5* Amazon reviews)

6. Cruise Luggage Tag Holders

Plastic reusable luggage tags holders are so practical. If you get nothing else, buy luggage tag holders ! Not only are they reasonably priced, but they can be reused again and again.

Cruise Line Luggage Tag Holders

• Royal Caribbean
• Holland America
• MSC Cruises

7. Packing Cubes

It’s official. I’m a packing cube convert. While I wrote a blog post about the pros and cons of packing cubes , the fact is, there are very few cons.

In fact, I’ve now found even more cruise packing hacks and ways to use packing cubes to keep organized on my cruise. I recommend getting at least 2 packs of these packing cubes , with the various sizes, in different colors. This way you can have cubes for each member of the family.

Recommended: 5 star rated Packing Cubes

Read more:   The Pros and Cons of Packing Cubes for Cruise Vacations

8. Luggage Set with Spinner Wheels

If you’re anything like me, you might be due for some new luggage. Make sure it’s lightweight and has 4 spinner wheels so that it’s easy to board your cruise ship and disembark (even if you do self-disembarkation).

Recently, I got new hard side luggage and I’m loving it!

Pro tip – If you have a neutral or common color suitcase, like black, blue or grey, make sure to tie some colored yarn or ribbon around a handle so that it stands out and you can find it easily at the airport or cruise terminal.

Recommended : 2 Piece Luggage Set (check price & reviews on Amazon here)

9. Portable Luggage Scale

Make sure to bring along a portable digital luggage scale when you’re flying to and from your cruise. This handheld digital scale includes batteries and is a customer favorite.

Recommended:   Handheld digital luggage scale (see product details & Amazon reviews here)

10. Lanyard and Keycard Holder

Cruise lanyards are one of the most popular cruise essentials. If you want to stay hands free or keep organized, putting your cruise key card in a plastic water-proof lanyard is super practical both on the cruise and as you get off the ship at a cruise port.

Recommended: Cruise Lanyard and Cruise Card Holder (waterproof)

11. Cruise Card Holder Phone Pouch

This new cruise accessory, a cruise card holder , is now my husband’s favorite! He used this to hold his cruise key card on our last cruise, and has raved about it ever since.

Recommended: Cruise car holder phone pouch wallet (stays on cell phone case)

12. Refillable (and collapsible) Water Bottles

I love these space-saving roll-able and collapsible water bottles . While obviously convenient on the cruise ship, more than that I love how they don’t take room in my luggage or beach bag when not being used.

13. Insulated Tumbler Travel Mug

14. Towel Clips

It’s very hard for me to hold in my enthusiasm for pool and beach towel clips . The ship is so breezy and towels would never stay put for me. It used to drive me crazy as I would try to read or relax.

This is honestly an item I’m so happy we bring on our cruises! We bought some towel clips with different styles (flamingo, margaritas, flip flops) and they’re adorable!

15. Adjustable Towel Bands for Beach Chairs

Some cruisers prefer towel bands to clips, as they’re easier to pack and take up less room. I love these, as they are adjustable and have a convenient clip cruisers are loving.

Recommended: Towel bands with clips

16. Poo-Pourri Bathroom Spray

Poo-Pourri bathroom spray is a cruising essential that may not be talked about much, but it works. Cruise cabins and bathrooms are small, and the space is tight. A useful bathroom hack is to spray a little Poo-Pourri before you go. 

17. Cabin Alarm Clock

If you like to know the time during the night or don’t want to rely on your cell phone, consider a simple travel battery operated clock . A lot of cruisers swear this is one of their favorite cruise accessories.

18. Motion Sensor Nightlight

This portable nightlight gets great reviews by cruisers and is one of the best-selling Amazon cruise accessories.

If you’re in an inside cabin especially, it will be pitch black. So having a touch of light for when someone has to go to the bathroom in the middle of the night will be appreciated!

19. Portable Fan

If you’re someone who finds that small spaces can get hot and stuffy, consider bringing a small fan  to make your cabin more comfortable. I like this one as it’s battery operated, but rechargeable  – plus it’s quiet.

20. Ladies Carry-on Bag

I love the size and practicality of his weekender style carry-on bag . It’s perfect to carry over your shoulder, but also fits right over the handles of your luggage.

Recommended: Carry-on bag with nautical stripe (see details & style options on Amazon here)

21. Hanging Toiletry Bag

These hanging toiletry bags are so practical to keep you organized in a tight cruise cabin bathroom, so it makes sense that this is quickly becoming one of the popular items to bring on a cruise.

This one in particular is my favorite and has over 35,000 5* reviews (you can see it in my video at the bottom of this post).

Recommended: Hanging toiletry/cosmestic bag (different colors available – read 35,000+ 5 star reviews)

22. Travel Laundry Hamper (pop up mesh)

Recommended: Travel laundry hamper (check price and see Amazon reviews here)

Related:  Do Cruise Ships Provide Irons and Ironing Boards to Guests?

23. Downy Wrinkle Release Spray

Make sure to bring along a travel size Downy Wrinkle Release spray to get any wrinkles out of your cruise wear .

Recommended: Downy Wrinkle Release Spray (travel size available on Amazon)

Read more:   How to Pack Wrinkle Free for a Cruise

24. Tide to Go Stain Remover Stick

Tide to Go instant stain remover sticks will save your cruise outfits! Make sure to pack one or more for your cruise.

Recommended: Tide To Go stain remover stick (verify price on Amazon)

25. Jewelry Organizer Travel Bag

If you like to pack jewelry for your cruise, this jewelry organizer bag keeps necklaces, earrings, rings, bracelets separated so they won’t tangle. The clear pouches make it a cruise essential favorite! 

I have the small size, and find it perfect, however it’s available in 3 different sizes so it can suit your needs.

Cruise Shore Excursion Must-haves

26. beach bag.

I love a good beach bag on a cruise. You can use this one as a carry on bag on embarkation day , as well as on shore excursions .

This one is large with a zipper closure, and looks great too.

Recommended: Beach Bag (see price & different colors on Amazon here)

27. Mesh Tote Bag

This mesh tote bag is one of my favorite cruise essentials. I love to use it to keep my sunscreen, book and other items both on the cruise ship and off.

Recommended: Mesh tote bag (check price & 5000+ Amazon reviews here)

28. Trendy Knit Beach Bag

This stylish knit beach bag is super cute for the lido deck or to use in cruise ports of call.

Recommended: Large mesh knit beach bag (3 colors – check excellent reviews)

29. Magnetic Sunhat Clip

One of the best inventions ever is the magnetic hat clip ! Never lose or squish your sunhat again.

Recommended: Magnetic hat clip (check price & different colors on Amazon)

This wide brim beach hat is great for Bahamas, Caribbean or even Mediterranean cruises!

Recommended: Wide brim sun hat (see over 13,000 Amazon reviews here)

31. Waterproof Drybag

If you plan on doing any kayaking or other water excursions, you’ll get good use out of this waterproof drybag .

32. Portable Lock Bo x

This portable lock box safe is great for placing your id, phones, cash and other valuables and keeping them secure while on an excursion.

Recommended:     Portable lock box for beach and pool

33. Water Shoes

Water shoes will be useful if you’re going to a rocky beach or an excursion where water shoes are recommended. We made the mistake several years ago of going to Dunn’s River Falls, Jamaica and needing to buy the shoes on site.

In fact on a recent cruise, we brought some new water shoes for an excursion to Virgin Gorda. These were awesome, and I’ll be bringing my water shoes on all future Caribbean cruises !

34. Snorkel and Mask

If you’re going to be snorkeling more than once, it really pays to buy your own snorkel gear. These are two Amazon cruise items that are both recommended, but really depend on your preferences.

Check out the Amazon review for this full face mask style snorkel set (to see why people are loving it).

Recommended: Snorkel Set with Snorkel full face MASK and swim fins (check price & over 5000 4.5* Amazon reviews)

This snorkel set is more traditional, but also very popular with cruisers.

35. Reef Safe Sunscreen

If you’re going on a Caribbean cruise , it’s really important to pack reef friendly sunscreen , as this is safer for the coral reefs. Many Caribbean islands (such as St. Thomas), have laws against using chemical sunscreen, and can issue fines.

It’s best bring the reef friendly sunscreen from home, as it will be less expensive than buying it on site.

Recommended: Reef friendly sunscreen (see price & Amazon reviews here)

36. Aloe Vera After-Sun Gel

Always be prepared in case you get too much sun. A good quality pure aloe vera gel will actually be able to be worn under your clothes, as it won’t be sticky like some gels with fillers.

Recommended: Pure Aloe Vera Gel (see over 60,000 reviews on Amazon)

37. Lip Balm with SPF

So many people forget to bring lip balm with SPF on a cruise. However, if your lips swell up like you had bad lip injections, you’ll regret not packing lip balm (ideally in your cruise carry on bag ).

Get The Ultimate Cruise Planner

Regular price: $27 now just $17.

Tech Items & Electronics Accessories to Bring on a Cruise

38. portable phone charger.

one While a cruise power bar might be the most important tech item to have on a cruise , a portable phone charger is super practical.

We used this one on our last cruise to charge two phones at a time! It was awesome and long lasting!

39 . IWalk Portable Phone Charger

Convenient on the go Iwalk portable chargers are great when traveling! I always have one in my purse, even for everyday use.

Recommended: Iwalk phone charger (check price & amazon reviews here)

40. Waterproof Phone Case

These waterproof phone cases with lanyards are great to keep your phone dry, and keep the sand out when you’re at the beach. I love these in particular as these also have a touch screen (so important when cruising and traveling).

Recommended: Waterproof Phone Case with Cruise Lanyards

41. Electronics Organizer Case

Stay organized by keeping your chargers, cables and plugs, and phone accessories together in one electronics bag. I love the Bagmart products – they are well made and sections are well thought out.

Recommended: Electronics organizer bag (see color options)

42. Apple Airtags

If you are taking a flight to your cruise, get a set of Apple AirTags (if you have an iphone). If not, a tile or another similar product can work well for you.

Recommended : Apple AirTags (check price & 40,000+ 5* Amazon reviews)

43. Folding Travel Mirror LED

A best seller, this folding travel mirror ia a favorite Amazon find.

Recommended: Folding LED travel mirror (see price & almost 5000 reviews on Amazon)

These days, many cruise travelers are leaving their books at home and opting for a space saving Kindle. When we asked cruisers for their top cruise must-haves, the Kindle made the top 10!

Recommended: Kindle Paperwhite (check price & over 20,000 4.5* reviews on Amazon here)

45. Sunrise Alarm Clock

A cruise essential that’s gaining popularity this year is the sunrise alarm clock . This is one of the most useful cruise accessories for anyone cruising in a windowless inside cabin .

Recommended: Sunrise alarm clock

Wellness Items to Pack for a Cruise

46 . cruise first-aid kit.

Having a travel first aid kit is one of the most important things you can pack for your cruise. Whether you use this one below, or put together your own, do make sure you bring the medications and general first-aid items with you on your cruise.

Recommended: Cruisepaks Cruise Essentials First Aid Travel Kit – 150 Pieces

47. Seabands

If you’re worried about getting seasick on a cruise , Seabands are a great, natural product that many frequent cruisers love.

Recommended: Seabands (available for adults and children)

48. Bonine Motion Sickness Tablets

Please don’t make this common first time cruiser mistake. Even if you’ve cruised before, you can still be affected by the “motion of the ocean”. Bonine really works well for my husband and I, without drowsy side effects.

Recommended: Bonine seasickness tablets 

Read more: Cruise Toiletries Packing List

49. Ginger Candies

Ginger candies are a natural remedy for motion sickness. If you have a touch of queasiness on a cruise, a ginger tummydrop can really help.

Recommended: Ginger candies (organic)

50. Disinfecting Wipes for Travel

It’s a good idea to bring disinfecting wipes for your travels – in the airplane or even for the car ride if you’re driving to the cruise ship.

Once on the ship, you may find having these healthy cruise essentials useful as well.

Recommended: Disinfecting wipes (check reviews on Amazon)

51. Liquid IV

Liquid IV hydration multiplier and immune support is on the cruise packing list of many! It’s easy to get dehydrated and even a little worn down during a cruise, from the sun and fun ;-).

Liquid IV is a good item to have handy just in case.

Recommended: Liquid IV (see variety of flavors on Amazon here)

Cruise Items You Didn’t Know You Needed

52. binoculars.

If you’re cruising to Alaska , bringing a set of binoculars is a must! Whether on the cruise ship or on a whale watching tour , travel binoculars should be on your Alaska cruise packing list .

However, we’ve cruised in the Caribbean and have actually seen whales and even dolphins a couple of times from afar. Of course flying fish are more common – but there’s a lot you can see and appreciate sitting at a quiet spot on deck or on your balcony with your binoculars.

53. Travel Corkscrew

Are you bringing wine bottles on your cruise ? If so, make sure to pack a small affordable travel corkscrew to bring on your cruise vacation.

Recommended: Small travel corkscrew (see Amazon reviews)

54. Stainless Steel straws

In an attempt to use less plastic, most cruise lines have eliminated plastic straws on board. This means that either the drinks are served “strawless”, or you may get a paper straw.

If you think a soggy paper straw will bother you, consider bringing along a set of your own reusable straws .

Recommended:   Stainless Steel Reusable straws (this one has over 50000 5* reviews – Amazon)

55. Highlighter and post its

Bringing simple items from home like a highlighter and post it’s can be useful. You can leave notes for your cabin steward or highlight activities on your cruise planner.

56. Cruise Staff  Thank-you Cards

Recommended: Cruise staff thank you cards 

Video: The Most Popular Cruise Essentials Cruisers Love

57. Extra Reading Glasses

If you wear reading glasses, make sure to bring along an extra pair , in case they break or get lost.

Recommended: Reading glasses (set including blue light)

58. Emergency Dental Repair Kit

I’ve actually heard this tip from another cruiser, who pointed out that there aren’t any dentists on board a cruise, and how handy an emergency dental repair kit could be.

Recommended: Temporary dental repair kit 

59. Convertible Garment Duffel

If you’re packing a suit and/or cocktail dress for your cruise, the best way to pack them, wrinkle-free for a cruise , is by using a garment bag. This convertible duffle style garment bag is perfect!

Recommended: convertible duffle style garment bag ( see pricing & Amazon reviews here)

60. Travel Hairdryer

The hairdryers in cruise ship cabins aren’t very powerful. This small travel hairdryer was recommended to me by my hairdresser. It’s the best travel hairdryer I’ve ever had!

Recommended: BaByLiss travel hairdryer

61. Water Bottle Tote Pouch

For the cruiser who has every cruise accessory, this is something new. How convenient is this water bottle tote pouch ? Finally, a place to put that refillable water bottle while walking around on the cruise ship on a sea day , or even on an excursion.

Recommended:   Water bottle tote pouch (verify pricing on Amazon)

YouTube video: 30 Amazon Cruise Essentials (and new finds!)

Recap: 50+ Must-have Cruise Essentials from Amazon

These are the some of the most popular and best-selling cruise essentials that cruisers buy for their cruise. I hope this has been helpful as you plan and prepare for your cruise.

While you may not need all the items, consider which cruise gadgets and accessories would make things most convenient while you’re cruising.

Do you have Amazon Prime?  Amazon Prime comes with many benefits, including faster, free delivery, movies and TV shows (Prime TV) and even borrowing Kindle books. If you don’t already have Amazon Prime, check out the FREE 30 day trial .

CRUISE PLANNING & PACKING LISTS

The ultimate cruise planner.

Do you need cruise packing lists, to-checklists, shore excursion forms and more? Check out the Life Well Cruised Ultimate Cruise Planner .

See details here: Ultimate Cruise Planner -What’s Included

Need more cruise packing tips?

Here are 5 of the most useful cruise packing posts so you’ll be sure to have all the essential things you need for your cruise.

• What to Pack for a Caribbean Cruise
• What to Pack for Your First Cruise (Packing List & Tips)
• 23 Essential Things to Pack in Your Cruise Carry-On Bag
• 21 Best Cruise Luggage and Packing Accessories
• Cruise Wear over 50: Flattering Cruise Outfits for Women (plus packing list)
• Cruise Toiletries Packing List

Note: Keep in mind that you cannot bring your own power bar from home, as it must be a cruise approved, non-surge protected power bar.

I recommend one with 2 USB outlets – click HERE to verify price on Amazon.

Are you a new or seasoned cruiser? What items do you most recommend people bring on a cruise? Let me know in the comments below.

Happy Cruising!

P.S. If you’ve found this post helpful, please share it with others on Facebook or save it for later on Pinterest (share buttons at the top).

30 Comments

Great call with the snorkel and mask! It’s something I wish we had thought to bring while in Bermuda.

Glad you liked the tip. I know so many people love to have their own snorkeling equipment.

I’ll actually add your tip to my Bermuda and Horseshoe Bay post, so thanks for pointing that out!

Enjoy your next cruise!

I live in Toronto, Canada. I have almost all the items listed above. The one thing I don’t have and was interested in … was the collapsible water bottles. I checked your Amazon site. Well … on the US Amazon site, a set of these 2 collapsible water bottles are $15.97. Are you ready for this? On the Canadian Amazon site … the exact same set of 2 collapsible water bottles by the same manufacturer are $46.54 … see below. I copied & pasted it here. The difference in price is obscene.

Collapsible Silicone Water Bottles – Sports Camping Canteen 20 Oz. – Easy to Clean and Store 4.2 out of 5 stars 966 CDN$46.54

Wow, that’s crazy! I wonder if it has to do with where that company is and where it’s shipped from. That’s obviously not worth it at all.

Perhaps the product is available through another distributor? If I see it I’ll let you know.

Thanks for taking the time to let me know.

Great tips. We just returned from our first cruise to Alaska. We used most of these with exception of …. We didn’t bother with the night light. We just left the bathroom light on with the door cracked open. Also our cruise line had a safe in the room. You use your own four digit code and whatever code you lock it with, opens it. So change the code whenever you want. Just remember what you used last. Didn’t use the beachy stuff but will in the future. Thanks.

Thanks so much for your comment. It sounds like you had a great first cruise!

Excellent tip about leaving a light on in the washroom. Simple but does the trick 🙂

Good point too about the safe – I should put this in my first time cruiser tips.

When’s your next cruise? LOL

I actually like the bring your own safe idea. Workers can easily reset your code.

I hadn’t considered that, but it’s a good point if that’s a concern.

Thanks for your comment,

We used the magnet hooks, towel clips and outlet. So glad we did. Next cruise I am adding the collapsible bottle and the folding clothes hangers (bought them before cruise and forgot to pack them 😥). These are all great suggestions. Thank you!

Glad to hear that those items worked out so well for you! I probably should try the folding clothes hangers on my own next cruise, lol!

We cruised to Panama last year and that is in a rain forest. We forgot our rain gear in cabin. We got soaked on our shore excursion. Got back changes hung them to dry. Next day it smelled really bad in our cabin. Next port we got a couple of car air fresheners tree things. They saved the rest of the trip. Water proof case. Went down the water slides on ship. Got great video of inside the slides. Also, we bought a power adapter to fit in European electrical plug. It has four USB ports. Gives us more plug in for our electronics.

Thanks Russell for the great tips. Great point about having rain gear too! I’ll have to add a few items to this list soon I think. I appreciate the useful suggestions!

Instead of plastic towel clips (which are bulky and can be difficult to use), try Towel Bands. I got mine from Cruise On

That’s awesome Robin. I actually have some and will give them a try as well next cruise. I like the practicality.

Thanks for sharing!

We love cruising and thanks to your list it has made it more enjoyable. I would like to add to bring a small bottle of Listerine Blue mouthwash. In case you have to rent or borrow snorkel gear, you can rinse it with the mouthwash to kill any bacteria that might be left behind. It’s not always washed well by the vendors. Also, combined with wipes, the mouthwash completely eliminates the sting of little jellyfish or other small “biters” that often cannot be seen in the water or on a hike. It has helped us more than once.

What a great idea Bo! It’s quite smart to be prepared for jellyfish, which I hadn’t ever considered. I’ll include this tip in my first aid kit list.

Husband and I are going on a 14 day cruise Jan. 2023 Eastern Caribbean. Not sure how much to pack. I do plan to do laundry at east once. Do you have a list for 14 day cruise?

Hi Irene, I have a packing list for a Caribbean cruise. If you plan to do laundry you could bring enough for 7 days or so and wash, plus formal night outfits can be worn more than once if you like.

There is a clothing list for men and women in this post: https://lifewellcruised.com/what-to-pack-for-a-caribbean-cruise/

Have an amazing cruise!

Thankyou for the information on the Caribbean cruise. This was very helpful. I will be able to check off some of the thing on my check list.

John and I will celebrate our 45th Anniversary 7/16/ 2023 . Our plans are to renew our vows on the beach of Galveston, Texas on a Friday afternoon. Then on Saturday, get on the Carnival Dream for a fourteen day cruise. We have belated celebrating our 45th till we cruise. It has been a long stressful year with water damage from a pipe in the attic. When 2022 comes I will toast 2021 good by and never look back. Look ahead to 1/14/2023 of fourteen days of the beauty of the sea and islands I have never seen. Thank you Irene

Sounds wonderful Irene! What a blessing to have spent 45 years together. Happy anniversary & vow renewal!Enjoy every minute of your amazing cruise.

One of the things I noticed you left out is, masks, just in case you might have to use them on the ship or in port. I keep one in my purse just in case the place I have to go to requires it. I also have most of the things in your list and have set it up for our needs on the cruise. We set sail for Alaska next year!

Oh Joyce you’re so right. I think I need to add this (at least for now).

Thanks for noticing and have an awesome Alaskan cruise!

We used the motion detector night light on our December cruise and learned the best place to put it was on the ground. It was so sensitive that it kept picking up our movement in the bed and turning on. When I put it on the ground it only turned on when we needed it and the light was perfect to navigate the room.

Wow Melissa! This sounds brilliant – thanks so much for the tip!

Hi Ilana. Thank you for the very informative post. My family and I will be traveling on Carnival Vista in August and one thing I did have to order is a daily travel pill container. We ordered two just so we can carry extra (vitamins and ibuprofen) instead of the bulky bottles. They store easily my purse and take up hardly any space.

I look forward to reading more of your posts!

Great idea! I should add this to my own list as well. Thanks for the suggestion & have an amazing cruise!

#36 “Bonine”. Amazon also sells the generic of this “meclazine”. I last bought some 2 years ago – 300 for about $10. That’s a lot of cruising!

That’s great! Thanks for sharing.

I love Alaska in September so the beach items don’t apply but one essential for me in a waterproof backpack. My pack with rain cover got soaked so this year I ordered a waterproof backpack for those rainy day hikes. Another trick is bring large ziplock bags to put items in you bag to either prevent from getting wet or to hold wet items, they are a life saver.

On a trip to Germany I picked up a euro plug that goes to 3 USB, we now have plenty of plugs for everything in our cabin. Traveling solo I don’t need it but it might come in handy on my next cruise.

Good tips!! Thanks for sharing

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Amazon Is Kicking Off the July Fourth Festivities With a Massive Summer Sale — Save Up to 60% on Travel Gear Now

After scouring hundreds of markdowns, we've uncovered the 80 best summer travel must-have deals.

• Overall Deals
• Luggage Deals
• Travel Accessory Deals
• Comfortable Shoe Deals
• Travel Clothing Deals
• Camping and Hiking Gear Deals

Travel + Leisure / Tyler Roeland

Summer has arrived in full swing, and with the highly anticipated Fourth of July weekend just around the corner, it’s officially prime time to start packing for your holiday adventures . Whether you’re enjoying a local celebration with fireworks in the backyard or taking advantage of the long weekend by embarking on a vacation, Amazon has come to the rescue with an incredible early Fourth of July sale focused on all things travel. 

From unbeatable luggage deals to essential travel accessories you didn’t even know you needed, this sale ensures that your next trip is smoother and more enjoyable. Just think, you could be breezing through the airport with a brand-new Samsonite Winfield 2 Hardside Luggage , hiking in comfort sporting the Adidas Women's Cloudfoam Sneakers , or sightseeing in a stunning matching two-piece set — all of which are up to 60 percent off ahead of the weekend. Instead of having you scroll through hundreds of markdowns, I've compiled the 80 best deals from the Amazon early Fourth of July sale. Keep scrolling to discover the top deals you need to grab ASAP. 

Best Overall Amazon Deals

I did the heavy lighting for you by sorting the best deals into categories, starting with my top picks for overall travel necessities. Discover durable luggage options like the Rockland Melbourne Luggage and the Bric's 30-inch Expandable Spinner Suitcase , or sidestep those pesky travel annoyances with useful organizers like the Hatori Travel Jewelry Box and the Rechargeable Travel Makeup Mirror to ensure you’re always well-lit (and no longer relying on the hotel lighting when getting ready). All of these items are at least 42 percent off — so don’t pass up on these deals. 

• Yamiu Travel Shoe Bags Set , $12 (originally $22)
• Samsonite Winfield 2 Hardside Luggage , $109 (originally $199.99)
• Rockland Melbourne Hardside Luggage , $91 (originally $200)
• Bric's 30-inch Expandable Spinner Suitcase , $279 (originally $558)
• Hatori Travel Jewelry Box , $8 (originally $16)
• Gimbelen Travel Makeup Mirror , $15 (originally $26)
• Rockland Fashion Softside Upright Luggage Set , $113 (originally $280)
• Omouboi Casual Daypacks Superbreak Backpack , $11 (originally $22)
• Lisen Cell Phone Holder , $11 with on-site coupon (originally $26)

Rockland Melbourne Hardside Luggage

Best amazon luggage deals.

Whether you’re jet-setting across continents or enjoying a weekend getaway, purchasing the right suitcase has to be the first step. These top picks promise durability, smart designs, and ample space for all your needs. From sleek spinners like the U.S. Traveler Rio Lightweight Carry-on Suitcase (on sale for $50) to carry-ons like the Syncb Weekender Overnight Bag that's 15 percent off thanks to an on-site coupon, these luggage deals will make the perfect companions for your next trips.

• Delsey Paris Helium Aero Luggage , $296 (originally $390)
• Samsonite Freeform Hardside Expandable , $140 (originally $200)
• Samsonite Andante 2-wheeled Rolling Duffel Bag , $88 (originally $120)
• Rockland London Spinner Carry-on Luggage , $62 (originally $120)
• Amazon Basics 3-piece Set Luggage , $170 (originally $183)
• American Tourister Stratum XLT Luggage , $153 (originally $180)
• Travelpro Crew Versapack Softside Checked Luggage , $212 with on-site coupon (originally $320)
• Delsey Paris Titanium Luggage , $130 (originally $210)
• American Tourister Stratum 2.0 Luggage , $72 (originally $90)
• SwissGear 7366 Hardside Expandable Luggage , $312 (originally $390)
• U.S. Traveler Rio Lightweight Carry-On Suitcase , $50 (originally $70)
• Syncb Weekender Overnight Bag , $23 with on-site coupon (originally $27)

Delsey Paris Helium Luggage 

Best travel accessory deals.

From the plush Napfun Neck Pillow ensuring a restful flight and the spacious NishelTravel Toiletry Bag keeping all your products organized, to the high-capacity Veektomx Portable Charger providing uninterrupted connectivity, these deals are designed to enhance your travel experience. Whether you’re an overprepared traveler or simply seeking peace of mind essentials like the Jisulife Handheld Mini Fan for an unexpectedly hot day or the Dreamegg White Noise Machine for unwanted annoyances when you're trying to snooze, these Amazon travel accessory savings will keep your bag stocked and your trip smooth.

• Veektomx Mini Portable Charger , $26 (originally $39)
• Jisulife Handheld Mini Fan , $18 (originally $25)
• Napfun Neck Pillow , $17 (originally $22)
• Nishel Travel Toiletry Bag , $20 (originally $28)
• Perfuny Silicone Makeup Brush Holder , $14 (originally $20)
• Well-Traveled 8-piece Compression Packing Cubes , $40 (originally $50)
• MiiKare Handsfree Phone Mount , $13 (originally $18)
• ProCase Travel Size Jewelry Box , $10 (originally $18)
• Dreamegg White Noise Machine , $24 (originally $34)
• Sisma Travel Cords Organizer , $15 (originally $20)
• Telena Small Sling Bag , $19 (originally $26)

Perfuny Silicone Makeup Brush Bag

Best comfortable shoe deals.

When embarking on a trip, shoes may not initially seem like a top priority, but your feet would certainly disagree. From strolling through the cobblestone streets of Europe or scaling mountains on a camping trip in the Northwest, Amazon's comfy shoe deals cover a wide range of brands and activities to suit any taste and adventure. Look out for some of your favorite shoe brands on this list — like the Adidas Women's Cloudfoam Sneakers priced at $49 to the New Balance Women's 608 V5 Cross Trainers that are available for $63. 

• Inzcou Women's Running Shoes , $37 (originally $51)
• Dr. Scholl's Women's Time Off Shoes , $70 (originally $100)
• Adidas Women's Cloudfoam Sneakers , $49 (originally $75)
• Skechers Women's Bobs B Cute Sneakers , $37 (originally $50)
• New Balance Women's 608 V5 Cross Trainers , $70 originally $75 
• Skechers Women's D'lites Fresh Start Sneakers , $47 (originally $74)
• Kufeiti Women's Canvas Sneakers , $20 (originally $40)
• Rocket Dog Women's Cheery Plush Foam Comfort Sneakers , $36 (originally $45)
• Skechers Street Women's Uno Stand on Air Sneakers , $52 (originally $65)
• Shulook Women's Slip-on Walking Shoes , $21 (originally $30)
• Cushionaire Women's Lane Cork Footbed Sandals , $30 (originally $50)
• Skechers Womens Reggae Slim Simply Stretch Sandals , $42 (originally $55)
• Bronax Unisex Pillow Slippers , $21 (originally $36)
• Rihero Women's Flat Sandals , $54 (originally $50)
• Nortiv 8 Men's Waterproof Hiking Boots , $43 (originally $90)
• Columbia Men's Newton Ridge Hiking Boots , $63 (originally $100)

Cushionaire Women's Lane Cork Footbed Sandals 

Best travel clothing deals.

We all appreciate looking stylish and feeling comfortable, especially during long travel days. Dressing cozily is a simple treat you can give yourself before embarking on a flight or road trip. Whether it’s lounge sets for women or comfy joggers and breathable T-shirts for men, the airport fashion deals at Amazon are sitting at some incredibly budget-friendly prices. These timeless pieces ensure you’ll roll your suitcase through the terminals with effortless styles, and with prices starting as low as $19, they're all you'll need to elevate your wardrobe for your next airport visit.

• Xieerduo Lounge Set , $40 (originally $60)
• Libin Women's Cargo Joggers , $35 (originally $44)
• Hanes Men's Cotton Henley Long-sleeve T-Shirt , $15 (originally $20)
• Baleaf Women's Hiking Pants , $30 (originally $56)
• Sherosa Women's T-shirt , $20 (originally $34)
• Nautica Men's Anchor Crew Neck T-shirt , $19 (originally $35)
• Hanes Women’s Full-zip Hoodie , $14 (originally $24)
• Anrabess Women's Two-iece Outfit , $43 (originally $56)
• Champion Men's Joggers , $30 (originally $50)
• NorthYard Men's Athletic Running Shorts , $25 (originally $33)
• Baleaf Men's Sun Protection Hoodie Shirt , $25 (originally $30)

Nautica Men's Anchor Crew Neck

Best tech deals.

Staying connected and entertained during your travels has never been easier with these Amazon tech deals. The Apple Watch Series 9 , now available at a $100 discount in select colors, will keep you on schedule and track your steps throughout your journey. Pair it with the on-sale Apple AirPods for seamless, high-quality audio that's perfect for not only enjoying your favorite tunes but also saving room in your bag. Plus, the Apple AirTag 4-pack is currently 20 percent off, so for those anxious moments when you fear losing your luggage, this product will provide peace of mind. 

• Apple Watch Series 9 [GPS 41mm] Smartwatch , $299 (originally $400)
• Bulabutty HD Bluetooth Speaker , $27 (originally $60)
• Apple AirPods (2nd Generation) , $89 (originally $129)
• Rove R2-4K Dash Cam Built-in WiFi GPS , $90 with on-site coupon (originally $120)
• Upeb Portable Phone Charger iPhone 5000mAh , $30 (originally $40)
• Tozo A1 Mini Wireless Earbuds , $16 with on-site coupon (originally $30)
• Cruise Ship Essentials Power Strip , $10 (originally $13)
• Apple AirTag 4-pack , $79 (originally $99)
• Elephas Mini Projector for iPhone , $90 (originally $117)
• QinlianfI 5-outlet Extender , $10 (originally $20)
• Vacoor Portable Charger for Apple Watch , $16 (originally $20)

Bluetooth HD Speaker

Best camping and hiking gear deals.

Gear up for your next outdoor adventure with the top camping and hiking gear deals. I dug deep on Amazon to bring you the best offers on must-have items like the cozy, durable SoulOut Sleeping Bag , that travelers are calling “ perfect and easy to pack .” Additionally, don’t miss out on the Hydro Flask Stainless Steel Water Bottle , which is available for under $25 to keep you hydrated on the go. Whether you’re a seasoned camper or a hiking newbie, these top-quality products will enhance your outdoor experience to the max. 

• Lighting Ever 1000LM Battery Powered LED Camping Lantern , $20 (originally $34)
• Luxmom Survival Kit and First Aid Kit , $50 (originally $80)
• SoulOut Sleeping Bag , $30 (originally $40)
• Sunyear Camping Hammock , $30 (originally $40)
• Motorola Solutions Two-way Radios , $52 (originally $65)
• Roadbox Mens UPF 50+ UV Sun Protection Long-sleeve Shirt , $20 (originally $30)
• Hydro Flask Stainless Steel Water Bottle , $20 (originally $35)
• TakeToday Collapsible Water Bottles , $30 (originally $35)

Lighting Ever 1000LM Battery Powered LED Camping Lantern

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