cruise packing help

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.

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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

Protect Your Trip »

Cruise packing list: the 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 for Dummies: 150+ Items & Free Printable PDF!

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

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

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

Essential Documents

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Personal Care Items

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Health and Medication

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Gadgets and Electronics

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Entertainment

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Optional But Handy

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Commonly Forgotten Items on a Cruise

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Extra Items Depending on Itinerary

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

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

Tropical or Caribbean Cruises

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

Alaskan or Northern Cruises

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

European or River Cruises

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

Asian Cruises

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

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

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

Middle Eastern Cruises

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

Australian or New Zealand Cruises

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

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

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

How Best to Pack for a Cruise

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

FAQs on Cruise Packing List

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Free, Printable and Ultimate Cruise Packing Checklist

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

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

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

Table of Contents

Best Items I Brought on my Cruise

Samsonite freeform carry on.

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

Lily & Drew Carry On Weekender/Shoulder Bag

Travel Space Saver Bags

Mangopop Long Sleeve Bodysuit

Soft White Sweater

Silky V-Neck Midi Slip Dress

What I packed: Cruise Packing List

Important items.

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

Clothing & Accessories

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

Bathroom Gear

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

Medical Gear

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

Miscellaneous

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

What should be in your carry on bag?

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

Don’t bring these items on a cruise

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

Free/Printable Cruise Packing Checklist

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Celebrity Blog

• Choosing a Cruise
• Planning / Booking A Cruise
• Preparing For Your Cruise
• Special Occasions
• What To Expect On A Cruise
• Australia, New Zealand & the Pacific
• Central America
• East Coast & Bermuda
• Mexican Riviera
• South America & Antarctica
• Destinations

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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Ultimate Cruise Packing List – Printable Checklist Included!

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

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

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

What to Wear on Cruise Vacations

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

Excursion outfits

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

Around the ship

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

Non-formal dining nights

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

Formal night on cruise

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

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

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

Packing List for Cruise

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

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

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

Clothes for Cruise Travel

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

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

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

Accessories

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

Other Things to Bring on a Cruise

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

Electronics

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

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

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

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

Seasickness Prevention

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

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

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

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

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

Cruise Packing List for Men

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

What to Wear on a Cruise Men

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

Shoes & Accessories

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

Cruise Packing List for Kids

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

What to Pack for a Cruise for Kids

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

What to Bring on a Cruise with Kids

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

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

How to Pack for a Cruise

Here’s what luggage I recommend for a cruise:

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

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

Cruise Packing Checklist to Download

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

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

Questions & Comments on What to Pack on Cruise Ships

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

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

Join Our Facebook Group to Chat More About Cruise Packing Tips

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

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Wow, such thorough info! Nice job.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hope this helps! Marisela

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

pdf is no longer available. Can you help?

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The Ultimate Cruise Packing Checklist (+ Helpful Packing Tips)

This post may contain affiliate links. We may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase. Read Disclosure .

Going on a cruise and not sure what to wear? Unsure about all the packing essentials you need to bring? Then you’re in the right place.

The great dilemma of any woman’s life is how she is going to present herself to the public, especially what to wear on a cruise.

A cruise is the ultimate catwalk. There are opportunities to wear lounge chair wear, swimwear, walking wear, dinner wear, workout wear, formal evening wear and of course, on shore excursion wear.

It can be overwhelming figuring out what to pack for a cruise, so to help you out, we’ve prepared this guide on the ultimate cruise packing list so you can load up the essentials.

5. What’s my transportation to the cruise and back? (Bag drag)

Cruise wear packing list, travel insurance for your cruise, what to consider when packing for a cruise vacation.

To help you start packing, here are a few questions to consider. After all, no two cruises are the same, and what you pack largely depends on your destinations and the cruise liner you’re traveling with.

For example, if you’re embarking on an Alaska cruise , you can expect cold temperatures and more adventurous expeditions, or an Avalon waterways cruise in Europe is a small, intimate cruise with a luxury feel.

By answering these questions, you can adapt your packing and cruise outfits for any destination and length of cruise.

Grab a coffee and a pen and start planning your list for your cruise.

1. What will the weather be like?

The ultimate question when deciding what to wear on a cruise is what will the weather be like. Cruise wear is governed by what the sun, rain and wind are doing!

Of course, you don’t have a crystal ball, but the weather forecasts should help with your cruise planning.

Before our Carnival Vista Western Caribbean Cruise we had our eyes peeled to it thanks to the arrival of Hurricane Irma!

2. How long is the cruise?

There may not be any chance to do laundry on a cruise, so consider the number of days to know how many pairs of undies and change of clothes you need.

Be sure to consider day wear (activities based) and evening attire (casual and more elegant evenings).

3. What type of cruise activities am I doing?

Good planning is essential for a happy cruise.

Research your cruise for the kind of activities they offer and what outfits you’ll need, not just for the boat but your on shore excursions too.

Is it more than likely you’ll be spending most of your time in a swimsuit and flip flops, or in hiking boots and rain gear?

Our simple cruise packing checklist (which you can download a free printable copy of below) will help you.

4. What are my luggage limitations?

The luggage police are out to restrict our wardrobes. Plan carefully, you don’t want to get stuck with excess luggage fees getting to the cruise (if you fly).

Cruise luggage limits are typically 2 x 50 lbs (23kg), although they do recommend you bring only one suitcase. I also recommend that!

If getting to the cruise departure port involves dragging your bag around, you may want to reconsider how much you pack.

If you are moving from your front door, to the car, to the cruise front door, you might feel okay with packing a little more as you won’t be lugging the luggage.

My packing list will work for any kind of cruise. It’s simplistic so you don’t over pack or over stress.

I’ve not listed quantities so you can use it for any length of cruise. I think you can easily determine how many dresses, shorts, undies and tops you need.

It all depends on the length of your cruise and your activities.

What to wear on a cruise ship

Okay, let’s dive into a little of the types of cruise clothing you’ll need.

Excursion outfits

What are you going to do when you are in port? This will determine what to wear.

For example, on our recent cruise, here were our three island destinations and what I wore.

• Ochos Rios, Jamaic a – we were zip lining and walking through the water up waterfalls. I wore my board shorts, costumes, and a simple tank top, my Keen shoes and my day pack.
• Grand Cayman Island  – we hired a car to cruise the island. I wore my swimsuits and a summer dress with my flip flops
• Cozumel, Mexico – we had a lazy beach day swimming in the ocean. I wore my swimsuit, kaftan, beach dress and flip flops. Beach bag had cruise towels, reading book, journal and sunscreen.

If you are exploring the city, you might wear shorts and a tank top.

Whatever your activity, make sure you have comfortable walking shoes as the days can be long and the feet sore.

On board the ship

Your cruise wear will be multi-dimensional on board the cruise. You might put your workout gear on for early morning yoga, walks on the deck, boot camp or gym workouts.

Breakfast can be casual shorts/ skirts and tops. If you eat at the buffet, you can even walk in with your swimwear! Maybe put a kaftan over the top.

If you eat in the restaurant for breakfast or lunch then definitely wear an outfit. It can go over your swimsuit though. And make sure you wear shoes.

There are lots of activities you can do on board the ship like mini-golf, basketball, and high ropes course, which will see you more in your active gear.

Otherwise, you’ll be in your swimsuits in the water or by the pool deck. That’s when your hat, sunglasses and kaftans, and summer dresses come in handy!

It’s very laid back and casual.

Non-formal dinner wear

As mentioned in this post on how to stay healthy on a cruise ship , we chose to eat in the dining room every evening. I hate buffets and the food and service is far more enjoyable in the restaurant.

After lying around by the pool all day, or adventuring on land, it’s nice to switch into a different mode and dress up a little – well out of your swimwear at least.

Even though the restaurant sounds more elegant and formal, casual dress is acceptable. As long as you look presentable and you aren’t in your swimwear in the main dining rooms, you’ll be fine.

If you plan to attend a show afterwards, or go to the nightclub, you might dress up a little more. But still bear in mind it’s not fancy fancy.

A pair of jeans, or nice pair of pants/trousers/slacks, with a dressy top is perfect. Casual dresses also work fine. You can see in our video some of the dresses I wore to dinner.

Formal Night / Elegant Dinner

It might be a good idea to check for details with your cruising company to see if there will be any other theme night during your cruise.

We didn’t know until the day it was announced that the evening was going to be white theme.

So we didn’t have any white clothes to wear to dinner. You can wear what you like and choose not to participate, but I think it’s fun to join in on the cruise themes and festivities.

We also had a formal night or elegant dinner, which we did know about in advance. In fact, most cruise liners have a formal dinner night. You can see the formal maxi dress I wore here.

The cruise formal wear doesn’t have to be anything like your high school formal. I have seen people on cruises wearing tuxedos and super fancy dresses. Whatever you want!

But, something like what you’d wear to a wedding is also okay.

You may even get to meet the Captain, so dress accordingly!

All cruises are different and I’m not sure if you can find out beforehand, but you can definitely plan for one elegant evening. Most cruise lines will have at least one, no matter the length of the cruise.

• Shorts/ skirts
• Tank tops / blouses
• Casual dresses
• Evening wear / formal cocktail dress
• Kaftan/ Kimono
• Cardigan/jacket
• Long Sleeved T-shirts
• Jeans/casual pants
• Semi-dressy tops
• Workout gear
• Swimwear – I’d pack two pairs
• Rash shirt (sun protective shirt)
• Underwear – pack enough so you don’t have to worry about washing.
• Socks – 1-2 pairs should be fine, depending on your activities.

The ship will provide pool towels you can use and you can take them with you when you get off at each port.

What to Pack for a Cruise List

Now you have the main clothing out of the way, let’s look at the other items you will want to bring with you.

• Hiking shoes – I love my Keen sandals and closed in Merrell hiking shoes.
• Exercise shoes
• Evening wear shoes / dress shoes

Accessories

• Evening purses
• Beach bag/ day pack
• Cross body bag – just makes carrying your personal items so easy and it stays secure to your body. I like this kinda style.

There are medical staff on board the cruise and you can access if needed. But why see them ($$$), or pay for expensive forgotten items at the ship store, when you can remedy a lot of ailments with your own first aid kit.

• Mosquito repellent
• Sunscreen or spray
• Medications – carry any required medications (+ extra just in case your cruise is made longer due to hurricanes!!)
• Panadol / Ibuprofen
• Thermometer  – the one item I recommend you don’t forget to pack when traveling with kids.
• Peppermint essential oil
• Lavender essential oil
• Tea tree oil  – great natural antibacterial. Good to put on pimples too.
• Liver tonic  – you’ll be indulging for sure on the cruise. This liver tonic will help.
• Probiotics  – the number one best thing you can do for your health, especially when you travel, is to take probiotics.

Read more: What to pack in your travel medical kit

As with any resort or hotel, you will be given basic toiletries to use in the bathroom. My hair is disgusted with me when I use them so I bring my own.

As I mentioned in the video I was lugging my big shampoo and conditioner which is a no go. I lost my silicone travel bottles, You might want to take an extra one for conditioner.

Keep them in a zip lock bag (pack extras) as well in case of spillage during transportation.

Pouches like this or small makeup bags are good for carrying your face creams, sunscreen, or anything that may squeeze out all over your clothes.

In the packing accessories section, you’ll find some links to good hanging toiletries bag as well as other specific items I love.

• Conditioner
• Make up Remover
• Hair accessories
• Hair straightener / curling iron  – may come in handy for elegant night, if you want to go all out!
• Razor – or just shave the night before you go
• Magnetic hooks or towel clips – not essential, but a nice to have

If you like natural and organic products, I buy mine on Thrive Market and have it delivered to the door. I save an average of $60- $100 every shop on quality organic products with this online shopping site. It’s the best!  Click here to get a 25% discount on your first shop.

Other Essential Accessories for Cruise Travel

• Packing cubes – the perfect way to keep an organized suitcase. Makes it so easy to find what you want and eliminate chaos, especially if you don’t have a closet or drawers in your room. These packing cubes are so pretty and have multiple sizes in the set.
• Hanging Jewellery organizer – Absolute lifesaver. This is similar to what I have. I love that it hangs and I can easily choose jewellery to match my outfit.
• Underwear organizer – I don’t know how I packed a suitcase before this Underwear Organizer
• Laundry bag – Throw your dirties  in a separate bag. I love colourful laundry bags like these.
• Wet and dry bag – Super useful on a cruise with all the wet gear you’ll have. Go for the color again like these wet and dry bags.
• Charger and cable bags – I love how organized this keeps my electronics
• Toiletry bag   – I like mine to be a little bigger – I carry too much as you saw in the video!

Entertainment + Electronics

Truly minimize your tech gear as much as you can. Cruising is a great way to unplug and reconnect with your love ones.

I highly, highly recommend you leave the kid’s devices, including their phone, at home. They won’t need it and they won’t miss it. There are so many awesome activities for kids to do on cruises. Our girls were never bored and never once asked for their tablet.

• Reading   – traveling with kids, there’s possibly not a lot of chance you’ll read your book. I think I got five minutes.
• Camera – I bought this Panasonic LUMIX mirrorless camera. Can’t wait to try it out. A great mid-range camera for a good price!
• GoPro – We currently have the GoPro Hero 11 A cheaper alternative is the Akaso action camera
• Gorilla Pod – A very easy tripod to carry and take any kind of photo with.
• Selfie sticks – If you want one!
• Power board or power strip – there will be a lack of power sockets in your cabin so it is a great idea to bring a power board if you have a lot of electrical items. I like this power board with the swivel outlets for those awkward socket positions
• Power adaptor   – essential if you are traveling internationally.
• USB cable for your phone.
• Laptop – we travel with ours as work and travel are rarely separate. Leave it at home otherwise. But if you must, we absolutely LOVE our Microsoft Surface Book . The first time I’ve been a cult fan of a lap top.

You might want a pretty travel wallet to carry documents and passport in. This is my next travel gear purchase. I’m tired of having all my important documents scattered everywhere.

• Passport – Americans don’t need passports on Caribbean cruises. However, many passengers were stuck on the boat and could not leave to avoid Hurricane Irma because they did not have passports and so could not fly out of Mexico . It was a nightmare for them. You just never know what might happen.
• Government issued ID or drivers licence
• Cruise documents – itineraries, booking receipts, luggage tags and excursion tickets
• Credit cards or debit card
• Travel insurance policies
• Documents for visas if you need them

Too much can go wrong when you travel. Don’t leave home without a comprehensive travel insurance policy. We used ours thanks to Hurricane Irma.

We’re still waiting for our claim to be processed, fingers crossed it will go through.

If it does it will save us $2,000 which is what we paid in having to get ourselves off the boat early in Cozumel, Mexico and home to Raleigh, North Carolina.

Check out travel insurance policies here. 

Packing Bags and Suitcases For Your Cruise

Now you know what to pack, it’s time to show you some of our favorite bags and suitcases for putting your items in…

We bought the Delsey hard case spinner suitcase  for my checked luggage, which I absolutely LOVE.

I’m a frequent traveller and this suitcase suits me for some many reasons. It’s not perfect as no suitcase ever will be but it’s the best I’ve had so far. the things I love most

• The pink color – easy to pick on the luggage carousel
• The four wheels – so easy to roll around
• How it folds open with two sides. On one side is a zipper section and inside I keep my shoes and accessories. I did not have this suitcase for the cruise so you won’t see it in the video.

Read more :

• Delsey Suitcase Review – our preferred suitcase for 4 years now
• 8 of the best carry on suitcases
• 11 of the best suitcases for travel

Day packs, or carry-on bags, are great for when you go on land – depending on your shore excursion.

I recommend a backpack over a shoulder bag – otherwise you’ll be spending a lot of time at the chiropractors on your return home.

Spend a little extra for quality and for women,  get a day pack made for women. It makes a HUGE difference.

I love the look of this day pack from Osprey . The design means you can get away with it looking chic in the city as well as in the forest.

Some of my favorite day packs are:

• 2 in 1 expandable backpack
• 3-in-1 convertible backpack and purse

I regret not having a large beach bag. They really do make days around the pool or beach easier and are far better at organizing than a day pack.

I love the look of this beach bag because it’s waterproof, has lots of storage space, and packs up small in the suitcase. I have bookmarked it for next summer.

Cruise Packing Tips For You

I filmed a video sharing my tips for packing for a cruise.

I go through how I lay out everything, my cruise essentials, lifesaving packing organizers, and what I packed for our recent 6 night Western Caribbean Cruise – the one where we were on the run from Hurricane Irma.

One packing hack I forgot to mention in the video is to be sure to pack a tote bag/ day pack for when you first board the ship.

Check in as early as you can so you can have more time on the ship using the activities. Your suitcases will be checked in (just like on the plane) and porters will deliver them to your room, which you often can’t get access to until later in the day.

So pack what you need in your tote bag: i.e. swimwear, reading books, hat, etc. for whatever you want to do on board the ship until you can check into your room.

I recommend when you arrive in your stateroom, to unpack and put your clothes away.

The cupboard space in cruise cabins is limited, especially if you’re sharing with the whole family. They usually have plenty of hangers.

Put your suitcases under the bed when you’re done. You’ll appreciate the organization as your time on the cruise passes.

Cruise Packing Checklist

Now this packing list is geared towards women, however, the majority of it can be adapted for men and definitely for kids

My cool freebie for you is my simple Cruise Packing List. Fill in the form below for your copy and then print it off and check off all items when you are done.

As mentioned I am not giving you a quantity of each item. It depends on your activities and the length of your cruise. You decide and plan it out before packing. Mix and match as much as you can.

Remember less is more!

No one will notice if you wear the same outfit twice and a kaftan is more than adequate for each day on board the ship.

I have linked to some of these cruise essentials and lifesaving packing organizers to products on Amazon.

Final Thoughts

Wow! I think that is all you need to know for your upcoming cruise vacation!

Before you leave, be sure to download your easy checklist so you don’t miss anything. It’s free.

Bookmark this page, so you can easily find some of the cruise essentials and specific ideas I had for some of your packing list items.

Thanks for sticking with me to the end and have an amazing cruise.

Please, if you found this useful, and know someone going on a cruise, share this post with them to help save them time!

Have you considered River Cruising?

We recently experienced an 8-Day Danube River Cruise with Avalon Waterways and enjoyed it way more than ocean cruising. Here are reasons we loved it , why we think it’s great for families , and thoughts from our teen and tween on river cruising .

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Where are you going on your cruise? Has this cruise packing list post been helpful? Am I missing anything? Let me know in the comments.

About The Author

Caroline makepeace.

Top 12 Cruise Packing Tips

After booking a cruise vacation, you may find yourself immediately wondering what to pack for your cruise. With a mix of beach days, formal nights, snorkeling excursions and museum walks, it can be a challenge to put together everything you need in one small suitcase.

Fear not. We’re here with some of our best cruise packing tips, making sure that you remember the essentials and learn a few tricks that will turn you into a cruise packing star. Whether your goal is to avoid checked or excess bag fees by packing light or simply to make sure you pack everything you need, here are our top 12 tips to cruise like a pro.

1. Remember Your Pre- and Post-Cruise Travel Plans While Packing

If you’re flying to your cruise embarkation port, understand your airline’s luggage allowance and weigh your suitcase and carry-on before leaving home to ensure you’re not over the limit.

When flying, remember rules for liquids, aerosols and gels: Each passenger can carry liquids, gels and aerosols in travel-size containers that are 3.4 ounces or 100 milliliters in a single quart-size bag. Common items that need to meet the liquids rule include toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, mouthwash and lotions.

2. Pack Your Cruise Carry-On Bags Wisely

On a cruise vacation, it might be several hours before your checked-in luggage reaches your cabin on embarkation day , so it’s important to pack smart when it comes to your carry-on bags.

Pack essential toiletries, medication, ID and a change of clothes in your carry-on. You'll also want swimwear if you plan on splashing in the pool right after boarding (no need for towels of your own, though). This also covers you in case the airline loses your luggage, which is generally harder to remedy than retrieving lost luggage on land-based vacations.

Related: U.S. Passport Card vs. Book

3. Pack Your Checked Luggage Wisely, Too

Do you really need three pairs of black pants or flowery sundresses? Lay out all of the clothes you think you'll need, then get ruthless about removing items you’ve doubled up on or think you’re not going to wear.

If you're traveling with family, pack half of the family's things in one suitcase and half in a separate one. That way, if one bag gets lost , then everyone will have some clothing -- rather than one person having nothing.

One of our favorite packing tips is to roll clothes rather than fold them. It’s a space saver and helds reduce creasing. Never pack valuables in your checked bags, as they could be stolen. Carry all cameras, electronic games, jewelry and prescription medicine in your carry-on.

4. Know Your Cruise Dress Code Before Packing

Here's the truth: While nearly every cruise line advertises a formal night (or, alternatively, theme nights), the rules around how strictly these dress codes are enforced varies.

Resort casual is now the ubiquitous relaxed evening dress on most mainstream cruises. Think: date night -- men in slacks and buttoned shirts (no jackets) and women in everything from sundresses to skirts or pants with cute tops. You may even see jeans in mainstream cruise line dining rooms.

Keep in mind that other premium and luxury lines may have more rigid rules around formal and evening wear. You'll still see tuxedos and the like aboard lines like Cunard, for instance. Your packing regimen will likely look different for thse cruises.

Read More: What Should I Wear on a Cruise? Cruise Line Dress Codes Explained

5. Packing Aids Are Your Friends

Packing cubes are the travel necessity you never knew you needed. Pack checked toiletries in one cube, beach/pool wear in another, nightwear and underwear in the next, and so on. That way, when you unzip your suitcase in your cruise cabin, you know exactly where items are because they’re already been grouped together. Another cruise packing tip is to invest in travel compression bags. They literally vacuum-pack your clothes into tiny bundles, saving you valuable space in your suitcase.

6. Consider Doing Laundry Onboard

If you want to pack light, read our cruise ship reviews to find out if your ship offers self-service laundromats (not all do). Just keep in mind that the ones that do have laundry facilities don't usually offer them for free. Minimal hand-washing in your cruise bathrooms is also a possibility, though drying space in a cruise cabin can be limited.

Check It Out: Your Guide to Laundry on Every Cruise Line

7. Remember That Mainstream Cruise Toiletries Are Limited

On most mainstream cruise lines -- Royal Caribbean , Norwegian , Carnival -- toiletries are limited to the basics: often just pumps of mystery soap and shampoo affixed to the shower wall.

If you’re picky about your products, pack travel sizes and don't forget your own lotion, face cream and conditioner. We don't recommend packing your own hairdryer, as rooms come with basic ones.

Another tip: When you get home, post-cruise, keep your toiletry kit packed with travel-sized bottles and an extra toothbrush or razor. When it's time for your next cruise, all you need to do is top up or replace the bottles.

8. Pack for Your Cruise Destination

Some places are more formal than others, and you'll need to bring the right gear depending on your itinerary. Pack more resort-casual wear if traveling to Europe or sailing to Bermuda . (Golf courses in Bermuda have strict dress codes.) Cruises to Hawaii , the Mexican Riviera and cruising in the Caribbean are generally more casual.

However, you'll also want to consider the weather in your destinations and don't assume you know what it will be like. Many so-called cold destinations don't require the same heavy gear in peak summer cruising months (and some hot destinations can get chilly at night).

Don't forget to think about your in-port activities when packing for your cruise. Flip-flops are fine for a beach day, but you'll want more comfortable shoes for long days of sightseeing or active excursions like hiking or biking. If you're visiting religious sites, you'll want modest clothing that covers your shoulders and knees, even if it's quite hot. Think about packing light linen pants, shirts and pashminas for these occasions.

Related: A First-Timers' Guide to Shore Excursions

9. Save Room in Your Suitcase for Cruise Souvenirs

You'll likely pick up a few souvenirs during your cruise, so you'll need room in your luggage to bring them home. Consider packing a foldable duffle if you're unable to pack so that there's space in your luggage for your return-trip purchases. It won't take up much space in your suitcase, and you can fill it up and check it for the flight home.

10. Re-Use Gently Worn Items From Your Luggage

One of the easiest space-saving cruise packing tips is to re-wear bottoms with different tops. It will also make you less likely to run out of closet space in your compact cruise ship cabin. Accessorize a simple dress or suit with different jewelry, ties and scarves, rather than bring two suits or cocktail dresses. Your shipmates won't know (or care) if you wear the same outfit twice.

11. Remember the Basics

There are a few things cruises don't provide (or sell for steep fees onboard) that you might want to pack. These include over-the-counter meds, batteries, camera memory cards, sunscreen, ear plugs and travel adaptors. If you’re traveling with kids, pack snacks, an iPad loaded with age-appropriate movies and a few games and books to keep them occupied.

Read More: How to Prevent Seasickness on a Cruise

12. Don't Leave ID in Your Checked Cruise Luggage

This might sound obvious, but always carry your necessary IDs and cruise documents with you and never pack them in your checked luggage. Do your research well ahead of embarkation day to make sure you have the correct ID for your cruise, too (a passport or birth certificate and photo ID, depending on your itinerary). Inexperienced cruisers have been turned away from the pier for having incorrect forms of ID for their specific cruise. If you need visas or proof of immunizations for your cruise, carry those documents with you, as well.

© 1995— 2024 , The Independent Traveler, Inc.

Home » Packing Lists & Travel Gear » Best Cruise Packing List (30 Cruise Essentials + What NOT to Bring!)

Best Cruise Packing List (30 Cruise Essentials + What NOT to Bring!)

Cruise holidays have become one of my new favorite things after my Comedy Cruise in Oz, Scandinavia and Russia cruise and adventure cruise in the Solomon Islands . I love the idea of packing for a cruise once yet visiting several different destinations – and having a huge choice of amazing restaurants all within walking distance of my beautifully appointed balcony cabin; not to mention swimming pools, theaters, spas and sail away parties!

Add in the shore excursions and port days that give you a taste of different parts of the world and you’re onto a winner. The biggest question is what exactly do you pack for a cruise?

Well, wonder no more as we’ve put together the perfect cruise packing list to help you pack all the cruise essentials so you have everything you need, can take out the stuff you don’t and avoid paying hefty ‘tourist’ charges for the stuff you may not have thought of!

Read on for the ultimate cruise packing checklist, which also doubles as a perfect first time cruise packing list.

In This Post

• 1.1 Cruise Essentials
• 1.2 What to Take on a Cruise: Your Main Bag
• 1.3 Packing for a Cruise – Cruise Hacks, Tips and Advice
• 1.4 Cruise Packing Tips: What NOT to Pack for Your Cruise
• 1.5 What you Need to Pack for a Themed Cruise
• 1.6 Frequently Asked Questions when Packing for a Cruise (FAQ)

The Only Cruise Packing List You’ll Ever Need

Cruise essentials.

• Sun cream – If you’re going somewhere hot then you do NOT want to leave home without bottles of this, because who wants to come back from holiday red and peeling?! Even if you’re going to a colder destination ( Alaska /Antarctica) – sun screen is still needed as the sun’s reflection off the water/ice (or even the deck) can still burn you.
• Sunglasses – Obvious. We want to keep our eyesight. And oversized black sunglasses add a touch of glamour to any outfit.
• A jacket – If you’re going somewhere hot you’ll still want a light jacket or cardigan to keep the night breeze at bay, or for when you’re spending time on the upper decks watching the stars (It’s one of my favorite cruise ship activities and it’s totally free!)  Alternatively, if it’s cold then its common sense that you’ll have to wrap up warm and snug.
• Comfortable shoes / Walking Shoes – Even though you’ll be relaxing on the boat, when on a shore excursion in a port of call you’ll be heading ashore to explore and see some sights, with a lot of cruise ports perfect for a walking tour. This will require some comfy walking shoes so that you can explore for hours should you want to! Also, you may need to pack a pair of water shoes if you plan on taking lots of water-based shore excursions – which could double up for onboard activities.
• Driver’s Licence
• Travel documents such as airline tickets (if required to get you to/from your departure port) and boarding passes
• Emergency contact details; and
• Insurance certificate / insurance card and insurer contact details, etc – especially if you have existing health issues.
• Cruise Lanyards – So all party members can safely carry their room card / charge card around the ship without fear of losing or leaving it somewhere!
• Money Belt – for day trips and excursions.
• Toothbrush & toothpaste;
• Non aerosol deodorant;
• Medications & Pain Relievers;
• Shampoo & Conditioner;
• Femininehygiene products
• Shaving cream & shaving supplies;
• Poo pourri ( if you’re sharing a loo with a special someone !)
• Seasickness remedy / tablets (just in case you don’t get your sea legs quickly!);
• Hand Sanitizer;
• Sunscreen (check the weather where you are cruising for what level of sun protection you need)
• and anything else you use in your daily routine.

Surprisingly most of these are the things that are usually overpriced on a cruise ship, so don’t forget them!

Toiletries are definitely cruise packing essentials – and if they come in a hanging toiletry bag (which saves space and keep your stuff off the shower floor and save counter space) – even better!

What to Take on a Cruise: Your Main Bag

• T-shirts or Tank Tops – Around 6/7 tops and a couple of casual shirts is good. The best thing about cruises is that you don’t have to carry your cruise luggage anywhere! Once you’re on the ship, you’re settled for the holiday. So you can worry less about bag weight.
• Shorts – A good collection of shorts is required, probably 2/3 that you can change and swap over depending on what you’re feeling that day.
• Dresses, jumpsuits or loose trousers – Super loose dresses and trousers are amazing for hot weather and I highly recommend them if you’re going somewhere like the med. Also, I’m a sucker for a good jumpsuit, they can be dressed up and down so easily. (Also consider some wrinkle release spray if you’re packing some crease prone fabrics)
• Bikinis – One thing that you’re sure to be doing a lot of on a cruise is swimming and sunbathing, so I recommend taking a few options to switch up and a beachy cover up (If you switch up each day it also helps to get an even tan… vain but true (and something I mentioned in my Maldives Packing list . Hey, at least I’m consistent!)
• A one piece swimsuit – For all those more active times like surf simulators, wake boarding and going to the aqua parks because nobody wants an embarrassing slip – a full coverage bathing suit is definitely a good idea!
• Flip Flops – perfect for wandering round the ship in (although flip flops are definitely not permitted in some of the luxury cruise dining rooms!)
• Tote Bag / Beach bag : a lightweight bag is perfect for wandering to and from the lido deck and sitting round the swimming pool(s) – and is a MUCH better option than a plastic bag! A fanny pack is also an option here if you travel light.
• Two formal outfits – Whether it is a floor length dress , a suit or a smart mid-length dress there’ll definitely be formal nights or a couple of theme nights for you to don your best formal wear / cruise outfits, dress up and own it. Check your cruise dress codes and requirements for details before you go.
• Beach Blanket or Towel ( but only if you plan on going on beach excursions ). Your pool deck will have towels for you to use on the ship and on the lounge chairs, but they often don’t like them to be taken off the ship.
• Snorkel Gear (again, only if applicable to your cruise destination, shore excursions and something you definitely want to do) These can be quite expensive to rent.

Packing for a Cruise – Cruise Hacks, Tips and Advice

• When Packing a CarryOn Bag : Pack an extra change of clothes in case and your swimming costume in case you’re bag gets waylayed if there are lots of people boarding at the same time. It’s not ideal, but it does happen.
• Bring something to make it feel like home – You’re going to be staying in this room for at least a week, bring something you love to make the room more relaxing for you.
• Pack a reusable water bottle ( pick from our top recommendations here )- OK so this one isn’t exactly kosher, but it’s one of my favorite packing tips. Whilst you’re not supposed to refill your water bottles from the dispensers directly, if you fill half the bottle with ice and then top it up with glasses of water tipped in, you’ll save a fortune on bottled water on board, and help save the planet by using less plastic. And if you’re in an ‘eco’ frame of mind, I recommend purchasing your own metal straw so you don’t have to use the plastic ones (although we are starting to see a shift in plastic straws becoming something that you have to ask for and are not given out automatically. It’s still not great, but it is a start).
• Use a collapsible bag – You have to find somewhere in your room for your bag to stay, so a duffel bag is a really good choice as it can fold away neatly in a small area.
• Disposable camera – Still bring your mustpack items – your GoPro ( or alternative underwater cameras – although really, is there any alternative to a GoPro these days?! ), cell phones, digital camera (or whatever you use!) but a disposable camera is always fun, you can get the film developed after the cruise and see what you captured as an end of holiday surprise. (If taking a lot of tech, be sure to pack a power strip – below).
• Use Compressible Packing Cubes – yes they are a thing, and they are a packing hack everyone should know about and are perfect for every vacation, holiday or jaunt you can think of. Essentially they are exactly what they say on the tin – packing cubes that you can compress meaning you can organize all your clothes and compress them at the same time. (Not convinced? Take a look at our recommendations for the best Packing Cubes on the market )
• Pre-Print & Attach your Cruise Luggage Tags: These will make sure that once you board the ship, your main bag (equivalent of a checked luggage) gets to your cruise ship cabin as quickly and as smoothly as possible.
• Sewing Kit and Small Cruise First Aid Kit – little nick in your clothes, a travel sewing kit can solve that; and a travel firstaid kit with a few essentials like mouthwash tweezers nail clippers plasters (etc) are perfect for if you get an unexpected blister for all the walking you did exploring on a shore excursion!
• Traveling with lots of tech? Take a power strip or power cube so that you only need 1 travel adapter for multiple appliances (and don’t forget your mobile phone charger!)
• Pack a Travel Laundry Bag – perfect for taking your dirty clothes to the on-board launderette, or keeping them separate from your clean stuff when packing to go home!
• Check the cruise lines dress codes: We mentioned it above, but more often than not, whether you’re on a luxury cruise, amazing cruise – or any other types of cruises to be honest – odds are their is at least one formal night on board and it’s much cheaper to take your own (nice dress / smart pants / dress shoes) than hire them onboard!
• Only take the permitted booze allocation: this is usually one bottle of wine per person, but check with your cruise line before packing anything to avoid having it taken off you!
• An alarm clock – if you are not a fan of ship wake up calls, and don’t trust your cell phone to wake you up!
• Ear Plugs – if you are a light sleeper, earplugs are essential on any trip.
• Your Credit Cards – to settle up at the end, and a good idea if you want to reduce the need to carry cash.

Cruise Packing Tips: What NOT to Pack for Your Cruise

This next section may give you a bit of a chuckle as it features some things you would never dream of taking on vacation, let alone on a cruise – but cruise ships have in recent years had to add these items to the ‘no’ list. Let me present what not to bring on a cruise:

• More than 1 book. Even for the bookworms amongst us, most cruise ships have a well stocked library, contributed to by many a cruise passenger. It won’t be difficult to find a book you like and in only taking one book you’ll save space and weight on you packing.
• Toys and Tech that might get you in trouble – so that’s drones, mobility aids (unless you have a medical need) – ie. no segways, roller skates or hoverboards! These can absolutely not be considered to be cruising essentials.
• Household appliances: irons, rice cookers, coffeemakers. Just leave them at home. Every cruise line has absolutely everything you need, and most have rules about the use of such items on board. There are launderettes, coffee shops and not forgetting the (often 24 hour) buffet.
• Hair dyer – most modern ships have hair dryers wired into the bathrooms, but they may not be the most powerful. Depending on how you normally style your hair, you may wish to pack your own (and a curling iron if that’s your thing), but we think most people can get away with not doing.
• Beach Towels – most cruise lines (Norwegian cruise line, Royal Caribbean Cruise Line etc) have them on the pool decks, free to use and you simply pop them in the laundry bin on deck when you’re done.
• Weapons & Other Prohibited Items: I’d like to think this one goes without saying, but any form of weapon – knife, gun, pepper spray – area big no no. You’re fellow cruise passengers are all there for the same reason as you – to have a good time. Self protection aids are NOT necessary.

What you Need to Pack for a Themed Cruise

• FASHION – if sailing to all the major fashion capitals of the world before arriving in New York for their fashion week sounds good to you, then a cruise is what you want to find. Who knew this even existed! There may even be a few famous fashion related people aboard…
• WINE – Why not combine two of my favorite things: wine and cruising! If you’re a regular on the site you’ll know me and wine are the best of friends, and Victoria’s Yarra Valley used to be in my backyard! Wine cruises are often river cruises and held throughout Europe.
• SPORTS – even I didn’t know this was a thing, but you can definitely go on cruises that are geared up for sports fans!
• DANCE/FESTIVALS – Cruise ship festivals are some of the most fun cruises on the market, What could be better than pool parties by day and dancing under the stars by night with amazing ports of call to help you see the world at the same time as you party!
• YOGA & WELLNESS – Cruise lines are also the perfect place to relax and unwind. With the nature of cruise ship wifi (typically less than adequate!) meaning you can actually unplug from the world whilst you’re at sea and really concentrate on relaxing and looking after yourself without the pressures of the outside world.
• STAR WARS! – that’s right folks, the Disney Cruise Line have come up with the goods and now offer a Star Wars themed cruise! If you’re attending one of these amazing cruises, you might want to pack a full themed costume. I mean, who doesn’t want to see Luke Skywalker, Darth Vader and Princess Leia wandering around the decks?!

Frequently Asked Questions when Packing for a Cruise (FAQ)

• When is the cheapest time to cruise? This question is particularly weather dependent but on the whole the cheapest times to cruise are typically in the late summer and fall because of hurricane season, but you can often find patches of bargain sailings, especially during the early weeks of December and in the spring.
• What on-board activities are available on your cruise? This will vary from ship to ship, and cruise line to cruise line. But on board activities can includes swimming pools, hot tubs, spas, running/walking tracks, theaters, cinemas, gyms, kids areas, mini-golf and so much more. Check directly with your chosen ship for the full run down.
• Is there a Day Trip available (to get off the ship) on a cruise? This will depend on your itinerary and ports of call, but on the whole yes, there will be multiple day trip options that allow you to get off the ship.
• Do cruise ships have luggage limitations? Unlike airlines, cruises don’t charge for the amount of luggage you bring. There are also no (reasonable) limit on how much you can bring. Most cruise lines “encourage” each passenger to limit luggage to two suitcases, each one less than 22.5kg or 50 pounds, although unless you are onboard for a couple months, this would be waayy to much in the first place. Be sure to check with your cruise line directly (whether its Carnival Cruise Line, an Alaskan Cruise line or any of the Caribbean cruise lines) as each will have their own set of requirements.
• Do I need to pack insect repellent? This again, entirely depends on where you are going, and how many shore days you have. Check your ships schedule and be on the look out for tropical islands where beasty bugs may need a little nudge to stay away.
• What cruise cabins are best for me? Selecting your cruise cabin could make or break your cruise vacation. Head on over to our Essential cruise tips for firsttimers for a full run down on what cruise cabin you should choose.

**Final Top Cruise Tip** Make sure you turn off data roaming before leaving your departure port and heading out to sea. Depending on your cruise destination and cruise route, your mobile phone internet allowance won’t be included as your phone will be in international waters. For the sake of a few social media snaps – of formal night or just epic cruise sunsets – those data fees can get expensive very quickly!

So there you have it! The Ultimate Cruise Packing List: Choc full of cruise travel essentials, packing hacks, travel tips and a full packing guide to make sure you have everything you could possibly need in your bag for the perfect cruise. And if I’m missed anything or you have any top tips for packing for a cruise, trip planning or some vital things to bring on a cruise that I haven’t mentioned, please let me know in the comments below!

And if you liked this post, please flip, tweet, pin and share on Facebook – I would really appreciate it! Bon Voyage!

READY MORE TRAVEL INSPIRATION? YOU MIGHT BE INTERESTED IN THESE RECENT POSTS, TRAVEL ARTICLES, PACKING LISTS AND TIPS, DESTINATION GUIDES, TRAVELER RESOURCES, TRAVEL GEAR GUIDES AND RELATED POSTS ABOUT OTHER AMAZING PLACES AROUND THE WORLD:

• The Ultimate Travel Packing Checklist – everything you need for a long term adventure trip.
• The Ultimate Ski Trip Packing List – packed full of ski essentials to help you have the best time on the piste
• How to Pack your Carry On Like A Pro – full of travel tips to make the most of those pesky weight and space restrictions!
• The Best Travel Backpacks for Women – because us ladies need a bag that’s built for us and is going to stand up with us for every adventure.
• Road Trip Resources: Road Trip Essentials , Road Trip Tips , Road Trip Quotes & Self Drive  Road Trip Playlist – keeping you and your car happy, entertained & healthy on the road
• Destination/Inspiration & Travel Guides! Sri Lanka , North America , Middle East , United Kingdom , Hong Kong , South Pacific + More!
• General Travel Inspiration! Travel Quotes , Adventure Quotes , Mountain Quotes , Beach Quotes , (to go with all those beach essentials !) Quotes about the Ocean & some of the most unique travel words with beautiful meanings !!

Hi There! Thanks for reading this Ultimate Cruise Packing List Items (A complete cruise essentials list + What NOT to Pack for a Cruise! – along with other cruise packing tips – it’s the ultimate guide to packing for a Carribean cruise) I just wanted to let you know that this post contains affiliate links, which means if you purchase something after clicking a link, I may get a small commission – which is at absolutely no cost to you . If you enjoyed this article and are going to be searching for some of the things I mention anyway, I would love it if you could click through from the links above & thank you in advance! Read my full Disclosure here .

Thank you for reading the MakeTimeToSeeTheWorld Travel Blog packed full of useful travel resources.

Saturday 8th of August 2020

Thanks for useful tips vicki. Any extra ideas for first time disabled cruiser sailing next year to canaria over crimbo with p&o. Providing where over this awful pandemic

Wednesday 9th of October 2019

What a great packing tips, thank you very much. It will help us a lot esp for the first timer like us.

Wednesday 10th of July 2019

Thanks for all the great packing tips. Two things you may want to add: rain gear and binoculars. We are about to go on a cruise to Alaska (in JULY) and rain is forecasted for the entire week.

A small pair of binoculars were also recommended to help spot whales/dolphins etc. and other wildlife from the ship :)

Daphne Gilpin

Tuesday 25th of June 2019

Thanks for the tip to pack a travel laundry bag. My husband and I wand to go on a group cruise soon. Your tips will help keep things comfortable and convenient on the cruise.

Monday 10th of June 2019

Excellent tips thank you !

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I've Been Cruising 20+ Years — Here Are 17 Items I'm Shopping for My Next Trip With Royal Caribbean, From $6

They’ll come in handy whether it’s your first cruise or your hundredth.

Travel + Leisure / Madison Woiten

Growing up in a cruise family, I never thought about catching my next flight. Instead, I looked to the sea, dreaming of destinations I could reach by boat. I went on my first cruise when I was 9 years old and for the last 23 years since then, I’ve set sail countless times, cruising everywhere from the Bahamas to Europe. Sure, my family did take some shorter trips by plane, but my most unique travel experiences growing up all happened because of a cruise. I’ve island-hopped in the Caribbean, marveled at the Hubbard Glacier off the side of a ship in Alaska, and sailed down the Mediterranean from Spain.

As I’ve gotten older, my family trips have become more rare, and I’ve found different methods to travel across the world. However, my family decided to book a five-night cruise to Bermuda with Royal Caribbean this summer to celebrate my brother finishing his fellowship, the last step in his medical training. I pride myself on my ability to thoroughly prepare for a trip without overpacking, which means I’ve already started on my packing list. After all, in my two decades of cruising, I’ve learned a thing or two about what you’ll need once aboard the ship. From comfortable shoes to a waterproof phone case , here are 17 cruise essentials in my Amazon cart that would come in handy on your next trip, too. 

Travel + Leisure / Rebecca Shinners

Seavilia Luggage Tag Holder

Cruises have a very particular system for boarding luggage, starting with emailing you your luggage tags, which you’re then expected to secure around your bags before boarding the ship. My dad has traditionally been in charge of this process on our family trips, but this time I’m taking over and ordering us these luggage tag holders. We’ve been left rushing to find a stapler or tape at the last minute too many times to not show up prepared. The best-selling luggage tag holders include steel rings that can easily be attached to your suitcase. Plus, they are made with a waterproof material and sealed at the top so you won’t have to worry about your luggage tag getting wet. 

Depending on your cruise line, the brand offers two different size options and packs of four, six, eight, or 20 holders. The narrow option is suitable for Royal Caribbean and Celebrity cruise lines while the wide option can be used for Carnival, Norwegian, Princess, MSC, Holland America, Viking, Azamara, and Costa Cruises. Shoppers say the luggage tag holders, which have over 1,600 five-star ratings, feel sturdy on their bags and save them time at check-in. “The braided steel rings secure the tags to the bags much better than staples,” said one cruiser. 

Hiearcool Universal Waterproof Phone Pouch 

Cruises may be known for relaxation, but depending on where you’re sailing to, you’ll likely have the option to go on an adventurous water sports excursion. I have a tendency to sign up for jet skiing whenever it’s offered. In the past, I’ve purchased a waterproof phone pouch like this one while on my trip — but buying one in advance can help you save money and ensure you show up prepared.   

These Hiearcool Waterproof Phone Pouches , which have 71,000 five-star ratings, were designed to protect your phone from the ocean. They’re sold in packs of two or three, and you can choose from 18 different colors. They are compatible with all smartphones up to 8.3 inches, including the most recent iPhone Pro and iPhone Pro Max, Samsung Galaxy, and Google Pixel. You can wear the lanyard around your neck during water sports or toss it in your bag for safekeeping at the beach. You’ll be able to use your phone’s touchscreen and face recognition features through the pouch as well. 

“I bought this for a Caribbean vacation,” said one reviewer who used this pouch on a few different water excursions and while swimming in the ocean. “It kept my phone completely dry,” they said noting that they had space to store a small wallet in the pouch as well.  

Beshon Flat Plug Power Strip

If you haven’t discovered the joy of packing an extension cord yet, trust me it’ll feel like an unexpected luxury on your next trip. Cruise ship staterooms are often smaller than traditional hotel rooms, so you’ll be thankful for extra outlets when it comes time to charge multiple devices or while getting ready at the same time as your cabinmate. My brother and I will be sharing a room on our upcoming trip, so an extension cord is especially vital to lessen sibling bickering (yes, even as grown adults). And of course, my brother would want me to tell you this was his idea originally.

This Beshon power strip features a flat design and wrap-around cord that makes it easy to pack without taking up too much space in your suitcase. It has three AC outlets, two USB-C Ports, and one USB-A, to ensure you won’t find yourself battling for outlet space on your next cruise. Plus, this power strip has 1,800 five-star reviews with multiple shoppers praising it for being “perfect for travel” and “space saving” since you can opt to leave your charging cubes at home. A fellow cruiser who said “outlets were not easily accessible” on a recent trip agreed that this was a great solution “for storage and packing.” It’s safe to say my brother will support my decision to upgrade us to this packable extension cord. 

Anrabess Crochet Swim Cover-Up 

I’m usually not an outfit repeater when I travel, but you will see me wear this cover-up all over the ship. The dress style offers both enough breathability to wear it outside and enough coverage to walk around inside as well. Just throw it over your swimsuit and you won’t have to worry about changing outfits before heading to the all-inclusive buffet. Cruises usually have air conditioning inside, and this long-sleeved dress will keep you comfortable as you go about different activities. 

This Amazon best-seller comes in 22 different colors and the brand also sells a short sleeve and tank top version of the dress if you prefer. I’m currently eying the black-white colorway which features a black scalloped trim. 

Dolce Vita Women's Starla Sandal

My goal when packing shoes for a cruise is to limit myself to just a few comfortable pairs, which means versatility is key. While these sandals are a newer style, Dolce Vita is one of my go-to brands for cute but comfortable footwear, so I feel confident ordering them for my trip. Plus, these sandals feature a cushioned platform bottom for added support and a strap on the back, meaning my feet won’t slide around while walking around the ship. 

The Dolce Vita Starla Sandals come in 7 different colors, but I think the tan woven style will be a perfect match for all of my daytime outfits — and yes, my accessories really will have an island theme on this trip. Since the buckles have gold hardware, they can easily be dressed up as well. I plan on wearing them with everything from shorts and a tee shirt to flowy maxi dresses. Want to keep things waterproof? Try the uber-popular Crocs Women’s Brooklyn Low Wedges .

BTFBM Summer Bohemian Floral Casual Wrap Dress

If there’s one thing I’m going to do on a tropical vacation, it’s use it as a reason to wear a flirty dress. Cruisewear has gotten more casual over the years, but I prefer to dress up for dinners  — especially when I opt to go to the ship’s specialty restaurants — and most cruises have one or two formal nights included in their itineraries. This ASTR the Label midi dress features a corset-style bust, a flowy skirt with a leg slit, and a pretty floral pattern — what more could I ask for? But, if you’re looking for a similar style for less, you can’t go wrong with this flattering wrap dress that could just as easily pair with white sneakers as gold wedges for just $38.

Voilipex Packable Floppy Straw Sun Hat

A cruise isn’t just about your destination — it’s about the amenities you’ll experience once aboard. Traveling by plane means sitting in a cramped row, but on a cruise you’ll be sailing to different stops while sitting poolside. A hat is essential to protect your scalp from strong UV rays and shield your eyes from the sun. I prefer to pack a straw hat that feels stylish in addition to functional like this one from Volilipex.

The Floppy Straw Sun Hat is a lightweight material that makes it breathable on hot days. It comes in one size but features an interior drawstring that can easily be adjusted for a snug fit. Most importantly, it’s unstructured so you can fold it to pack without worrying about losing its shape. I know I’ll be wearing this straw bucket hat on both the boat and around Bermuda since I can easily throw it into my day bag. The hat comes in 12 different solid colors, including match-everything neutrals like beige and khaki. However, there are also seven crochet-style patterns available, which I’m tempted to grab as well. A tropical vacation is the perfect time to experiment with bright colors and fun accessories, after all.

Skays Reversible Floral One Piece Bathing Suit 

I’ll be driving to the cruise port for my trip this summer, which means I don’t have to worry about suitcase restrictions or weight limits. Yet, I’m still a sucker for a space-saving solution. This reversible swimsuit is the perfect multitasking piece for your next vacation. Once you wear it to the pool or beach, you can hand wash it in your shower and turn it around the other way — no one will suspect you’re actually re-wearing the same suit. 

Another perk of this swimsuit is that it provides good coverage on the stomach and back, making it a great option for a family trip. While it’s a more conservative style in my opinion, the tie sleeves and square neckline are on-trend, and it comes in eight pretty floral prints (yes, all of which are reversible as well.) Reviewers found this swimsuit to be good-quality and say you won’t have to worry about see-through fabric. One traveler who wore the suit while hiking to a swimming spot in Croatia said it was “ very comfortable .”

Sojos Retro Oval Sunglasses 

Okay, these best-selling sunglasses aren’t technically in my shopping cart — they’re in my purse because I couldn’t wait any longer to buy them. I started ordering sunglasses from Amazon years ago after losing one too many pairs of more expensive shades, and I haven’t looked back since. Amazon sunglasses feel just as high-quality as any other brands I’ve tried, and this pair, which has over 23,900 five-star ratings, is no exception. The polarized lenses will protect your eyes from UV rays — plus, the hexagonal design is unexpectedly flattering.

I purchased the Sojos glasses in the black colorway but they also come in five different stylish options. My Amazon sunnies collection also includes the brand’s Retro Round Polarized Sunglasses and my brother is a fan of their Retro Aviator Sunglasses.

Hydro Flask Stainless Steel Standard Mouth Water Bottle

Cruises are known for their all-inclusive atmosphere, and they really do a good job of providing anything you could need aboard the ship in my experience. However, that doesn’t mean you should leave your reusable water bottle behind. You’ll still need it when you deport the ship for an excursion, and trust me you’ll be thanking yourself for bringing it with you to the cruise ship’s pool. Water may be readily available on the boat, but an insulated tumbler will do a better job at keeping your drink cold than a glass, and you’ll be refilling it less often. I’ve been loyal to my Hydro Flask water bottle for about five years now and can attest to its ability to keep your drink cold for up to 24 hours. 

The Hydro Flask water bottle comes in 14 colors, each available in either 18 ounces, 21 ounces, or 24 ounces.  I find the 21-ounce size to be the most versatile — it’s large enough that I don’t have to refill it too often without being too heavy to carry around with me. Plus, I love that the cover has a handle to make it easily transportable. It’s even dishwasher safe (which will be important once you return home from your trip). It should come as no surprise that this water bottle has over 20,000 five-star ratings on Amazon.   

Kindle Paperwhite

Planning to relax and unwind aboard your cruise ship? A good book can help you leave behind the pressures of work and everyday responsibilities. While scrolling social media recently, I ended up on #BookTok and heard multiple readers call Magnolia Parks the “London version of Gossip Girl,” since it follows the love life of a socialite. The Magnolia Parks Universe is a series, meaning you can bring multiple books with you depending on the length of your trip. You can grab the paperback books or download them all on your Kindle before you set sail on your voyage. 

Velvet Caviar iPhone Case & Battery Pack

Despite working in social media for my entire 10-year career, I have a tendency to let my phone battery run out. This isn’t the best habit to have while traveling, especially if you are going on a European cruise with 10-plus hour excursions. However, ever since I received this Velvet Caviar iPhone Case and Battery Pack, my phone hasn’t died once. This charger is lightweight and thin, making it easy to take on the go. It uses MagSafe technology to attach to the case and charge your phone. 

The case and matching charger come in an assortment of different patterns ranging from checkered print to marble. There’s just something so satisfying to me about how they were designed to match each other. However, I will note that the charger can generally only be used to charge your phone once before needing to be recharged. (Of course, if you’ve already ordered an extension cord for your stateroom, you’ll have the space to do so.)

Vooray 22L Zoey Tote Bag

I gifted this tote bag to my mom a few months ago, and I’ve rarely spotted her without it ever since. I was tempted to buy one for myself the last time she packed in it to visit me, and I think my upcoming trip is the perfect excuse to finally add it to my cart. This might not seem like your typical beach bag, but I prefer to pack a tote that can have multiple functions for a cruise: I’ll be able to use it to carry my pool essentials on the ship and as a day bag on excursions. It would even make the perfect gym bag if you plan to work out on your trip. 

As someone who has tried a ton of tote bags, I have very specific criteria of what I look for: Interior pockets and a comfortable strap that can easily rest on your shoulder are at the top of my list. The Zoey Tote bag has an interior water bottle sleeve and an enclosed pocket for zipping up anything you want to keep out of the sun. The magnetic snap closure makes it easy to open and close and the inner liner is water resistant. It features both top handles and a removable longer strap, so you can carry it however is most comfortable for you. 

You might be thinking this tote could make a good personal item or carry-on as well, and you’d be correct. Personally, I prefer to bring a larger duffle and tuck a tote like this inside it for even more space. This bag is easy to compress because it’s made of a soft cotton material. But my favorite packing hack is to stuff a tote with clothes before putting it into your suitcase to really save space.

Havaianas Women's Slide Classic Metallic Sandal

Another important shoe to have on a cruise is a pool slide that will take you from the outer deck to the buffet. Have I mentioned yet that cruises have all-you-can-eat buffets? And that you’re always a few steps away from your next snack while aboard the ship? You just need a shoe that will take you there. 

I’ve never been a big fan of flip-flops and other popular slide styles I’ve tried are so chunky that they feel heavy. Enter, Havaianas Slide Sandals . This style is waterproof and offers a platform that’s thick but not too bulky so that you feel comfortable walking around in them beyond the pool deck. The footbed is textured so that your foot stays in place. Plus, the metallic design is fun while still being neutral enough to go with all of your swimsuits. I may have to pick them up in both the rose gold and the silver colorways. 

Too often I hear people say that they don’t go on cruises because they’re prone to motion sickness. And I have to be honest, even aboard a larger ship, you’ll likely be able to feel the boat rocking at times. However, as someone who is sensitive to sea sickness myself, I can assure you this shouldn’t deter you from setting sail and there’s a solution that will keep you feeling your best.

Dramamine is the first thing I buy for all of my trips and the only reason I’m able to keep up with my cruising habit. I even once found myself buying a German version of this pill when I didn’t bring enough on a Europe trip (though it did make for one of my all-time most interesting souvenirs). While I’ve tried nonoral remedies for motion sickness, such as patches and wristbands , I find that these pills are the only thing that ward off my nausea completely. If you’re prone to motion sickness too, I suggest taking the pills preemptively, at a specified time each day. They last for 24 hours and the less drowsy formula doesn’t cause any tiredness for me. 

Kopari SPF 50 Sun Shield Body Glow

A sunburn can quickly turn a relaxing vacation into a painful experience. During my decade of working at beauty publications, I’ve heard multiple dermatologists say that the best sunscreen is one you’ll actually use. For me, that generally means avoiding anything too sticky or with a strong synthetic smell. I’ve been wanting to try this Kopari Sun Shield Body Glow since seeing it on social media because it goes beyond just your typical SPF formula. 

The lightweight gel formula glides on easily and offers SPF 50 protection. It’s infused with macadamia and hibiscus oils to ward off UV ray damage and Vitamin E to protect the skin from environmental stressors. But what really caught my attention about this product is that it leaves a shimmery shine on your skin that will make you look sunkissed — even if you spent all day lounging in the shade. You can choose between three colors, each leaving a different metallic shimmer on the skin. I will definitely be covering myself in this sunscreen before heading to the pool.

Kerastase Nutritive 8H Magic Night Hair Serum 

I tend to be a minimalist when it comes to packing beauty products for a cruise, but this Kerastase serum is the one product I won’t set sail without. The ship deck can get windy, which causes my hair to frizz, while going in the pool and the ocean makes it even drier than usual. However, this serum truly does work magic on my strands, just like its name implies. 

While this serum can be used as a leave-in-treatment, I find that it instantly smoothes any frizz as well. I simply put one drop of the product into my hand, then run it down my hair, massaging it into any unruly curls. Within minutes, my hair looks shinier with no signs of frizz. It’s a major time-saver when I’m going straight from dinner to a show and don’t want to worry about redoing my hair. I like to take advantage of packing full-size products when I’m not flying to my cruise, but if you do need a TSA-approved product, this spray bottle would work well to dispense the serum — and you’ll be able to relax on deck frizz-free.

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What to Pack for Your First Cruise (Packing List & Tips)

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Are you going on your first cruise and wondering what to pack? This cruise packing list for first timers can help!

Cruise vacations are very different from land trips and resorts. You’ll want to make sure that you have everything you need for days at sea and in ports of call.

Planning a first cruise and knowing what to pack can seem overwhelming. However, this cruise packing list includes all the things that you may not think of as a first time cruiser.

In this post, we go over:

Cruise Clothing Packing List For Women

Cruise clothing packing list for men, cruise essentials for first-timers.

• Bonus Items For First Time Cruisers

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.

This cruise outfit packing list is a general guide for warm weather cruises (Caribbean, Bahamas, Mexico, Bermuda). It’s a good idea adjust your items based on length of your cruise, as well as your personal preferences and style.

More cruise packing lists for other itineraries are listed below.

• 2-3 bathing suits
• 2 cover ups
• 2-3 pairs of shorts
• 4-6 t-shirts or tank tops
• 2-3 sundresses
• 2-3 casual evening dresses
• 1-2 cocktail dresses/fancy dresses (for formal night)
• 2-3 Light tops/blouses for evening
• 1-2 nice pants or jeans for evening
• Gym wear (including gym shoes)
• undergarments & socks
• Comfortable shoes for walking
• Dressy shoes (evening)
• Flip flops or sandals for beach or pool
• Casual shoes for day
• Casual shoes/wedge for evening (optional)
• Shawl or cardigan (cruise ship air conditioning on the shoulders)
• Light sweatshirt or hoodie
• Evening bag or clutch
• Jewelry (optional)
• 2-4 pairs jeans or khakis
• 3-4 polo style shirts
• 1-2 buttoned shirts
• 1 suit or dress pants (for formal night)
• 1-2 dress shirts
• undergarments and sleepwear
• work-out clothes
• 1 sweater or sweatshirt
• sandals/flip flops
• 1 pair dress shoes
• 1-2 pairs casual shoes 
• baseball cap or hat

Related: What to Pack for Children on a Cruise

More Cruise Packing Lists:

• What to Pack for an Alaska Cruise
• What to Wear on an Alaska Cruise (day & evening outfit ideas)
• What to Pack for a Mediterranean Cruise
• What to Pack for a Canada New England Cruise

There are some essential items and travel gadgets that you’ll want to pack for your cruise, that may not be obvious for first time cruisers.

1. Government ID or Passports

The most important things to pack for your cruise is a government ID and passport if applicable. Make sure to have this on you, and  never pack it in your checked luggage . Unfortunately, if you don’t have it with you, you’ll be denied boarding.

It’s a good idea to use a  passport wallet holder . This one is so practical as it can be worn with a wristband or around the neck.

Recommended:   Passport travel wallet (check price & reviews on Amazon)

Tip: Always make sure to keep your passport, ID and important documents in your carry-on bag as you board your cruise. Never leave important items in your checked luggage as they can get lost.

2. Cruise Documents

Save or print out your cruise documents, as well as flight and hotel reservations and other travel documents you might need. Keep those handy in a physical file or in a folder on your phone, for easy access.

3. Credit Card / Cash and Small Bills

Whether if it’s for the casino or for when you’re in ports of call, you’re going to want to bring your credit card and some cash. When it comes to spending money in ports of call, make sure to have some cash on hand for a souvenirs, drinks, and taxi fares.

Tip: If possible, use a credit card or cash, rather than a debit card, for your onboard cruise account . Cruise lines will often place a hold on debit cards, which can be a source of frustration even after the cruise.

Related: How Do You Pay on a Cruise – Onboard Purchases Explained

4. A Bottle of Wine

Many cruise lines allow cruisers to bring one bottle of wine per passenger over 21 years of age, on embarkation day. If you don’t have a drink package , check with your cruise line to see what beverages are allowed onboard.

5. Medication

Your  cruise packing list  should include both over the counter and prescription medication. It’s also a good idea to pack few days of extra medication as a precaution when traveling.

Tip: Don’t forget to keep your medication on you on your flight and as you board your cruise on embarkation day.

6. Pill Organizer for Travel

I’ve recently purchased this pill organizer so I can have medication and vitamins that we need for our cruise, all in one place.

Recommended: Pill travel case (check price & over 5000 Amazon reviews here)

7. Embarkation Day Bag

While you’ll check your luggage at the cruise terminal , you’ll want to have a  cruise carry on bag  with all you need for  embarkation day . In here, you can keep your essentials like a change of clothes, a bathing suit and cover up, medications and any valuables. 

This trendy weekender bag makes a great carry on bag. It’s roomy bag has a separate shoe compartment, a small make up or toiletry bag, and comes with a USB charging port.

Recommended:   Weekender bag duffel (see price & over 2000 4.5* reviews on Amazon)

A lanyard will hold your cruise card both on the ship and in port, keeping your hands free. It’s one of the most useful items first timers can bring on a cruise.

Recommended:   Cruise lanyards

Tip: Reuse your lanyard on future cruises!

9. Cruise Card Holder

If you aren’t sure you want a lanyard, you can opt for this cruise card holder that sticks easily onto your phone case.

Recommended: Cruise card holder

10. Packing Cubes

If you haven’t tried  packing cubes  yet, consider giving them a go. They can be a great help with packing for your cruise, as well as pre and post cruise hotel stays.

Since cruise rooms tend to be on the smaller side, packing cubes are a great way to make the most out of your small space.

Recommended:  Packing cubes (verify price & read over 24,000 5* Amazon reviews)

Tip: Consider having different colored packing cubes for each member of the family in order to keep organized.

11. Luggage Tag Holders

Your  cruise luggage tags  will need to be printed, then folded and stapled and put on your luggage. While this is perfectly fine, the paper can be flimsy and it takes time to do this the morning of your cruise.

Luggage tag holders  are reusable, and truly one of the best cruise accessories you’ll ever have. They’re available for every cruise line (in wide or long sizes).

Recommended:  Plastic Sleeve luggage tags (check link for specific cruiseline options)

12. Sunscreen

Sunscreen is a must-pack item for a cruise. First time cruisers are often surprised at how they much stronger the sun seems to be when out at sea. While sun tan lotion is sold onboard, it will be more expensive to purchase in the cruise ship’s store, than at home.

Since many Caribbean islands now require it, it’s best to bring a  reef friendly sunscreen .

Recommended:  Reef safe sunscreen SPF 50 (see 1500+ excellent reviews on Amazon here)

13. Lip Balm with SPF

Remember to pack  lip balm with SPF , as lips can burn in the sun and get swollen if this happens.

Recommended:  Lip balm with SPF 

14. Insect Repellent (optional)

Most of the time, you won’t need insect repellant. However, if you plan any off the beaten path shore excursions , like zip-lining though the rainforest or river tubing, it’s best to pack the bug spray.

Recommended:  Deep Woods Insect Repellant (see reviews here)

15. Aloe Vera

If you get too much sun, you’ll be happy to have packed an aloe vera gel . This is the best Aloe Vera I’ve ever used and I never cruise without.

Recommended: Aloe vera (organic & non-sticky see over 60,000 reviews)

16. Sunglasses

Remember to pack a pair or two of sunglasses. I like to bring a pair of  sunglasses from Amazon  that is less expensive, and leave my good ones on the cruise ship.

Recommended:  Trendy sunglasses (check price & amazon reviews here)

17. Non-surge Protected Power Bar

Cruise cabins are well known for not having enough electric outlets. If you’re bringing electronic items like cell phones, an iPad, hair straighteners or any other electronic item, you’ll likely want more plugs and USB outlets.

Many cruisers pack a  non-surge protected power strip , which is cruise compliant. Please note that you can’t bring a regular surge protected power strip, as it’s considered a safety hazard on a cruise.

Recommended:   Cruise Power Strip with USB Outlets – Non Surge Protection & Ship Approved (verify price here)

18. Hanging Over the Door Organizer

Cruisers swear by the over the door hanging organizer to  keep your cruise cabin organized .

Recommended:  Hanging cabin organizer (see Amazon link for price & details)

19. Toiletries & Hanging Toiletry Bag

In addition to your cruise outfits, pack  travel sized toiletries .  This includes basic items such toothbrushes, toothpaste, shaving cream etc. You may also want to pack perfume, moisturizers and other personal items.

This  hanging toiletry bag  is a great way to  keep small cruise cabin bathrooms organized !

Recommended:   Hanging toiletry bag (over 40,000 5* ratings on Amazon)

Related:   What Toiletries to Pack for a Cruise (packing list)

20. First-Aid Kit

You can make your own  travel first aid kit , or purchase a  cruise first aid kit  that’s ready made and pre-filled with bandages and other items you may need for your cruise.

Recommended:  Cruise first aid kit (check price & see over 60,000 5* Amazon reviews)

Related:   Cruise First Aid Kit Essentials You Need to Have

21. Magnetic Hooks

Magnet hooks are a cruiser’s “secret” organization hack! Since most cruise ship cabins are metal, you can use  magnet hooks  to add storage space to the walls in your stateroom.

Hang bathing suits to dry, baseball caps, and even backpacks for excursions. Be sure they are heavy-duty and strong.

Recommended:   Magnetic hooks (50 lb+ is best to hold items)

22. Magnetic Clips

Magnet clips  are great to keep shore excursion tickets and other paperwork from cluttering your desk or vanity.

Recommended:  Magnet clips (set of 6 on Amazon)

23. Poo-Pourri Bathroom Spray

If this is your first cruise, something you should know is that cruise cabin bathrooms are generally small and not usually well ventilated. The bathroom spray pro cruisers rely on is  Poo-Pourri .

Recommended: Poo-Pourri Before-You-Go Toilet Spray Bottle (verify Amazon price here)

Get The Ultimate Cruise Planner

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24. Reusable Plastic Bags

On a cruise, packing a few reusable plastic bags will come in handy. Small plastic baggies are great to keep cookies or snacks you may have brought back to your cabin from the buffet. If you have wet items, larger ziploc baggies will save the day.

Recommended: Plastic Bags (variety pack)

25. Towel Clips

First time cruisers are often surprised at how windy it can get on the lido deck. Towel clips  are perfect to use on cruise ship deck chairs, to keep your towel in place when there’s an ocean breeze.

Recommended:  Cute towel clips (set of 2 pairs)

26. Towel Bands

If you’re trying to pack light or even carry-on only, towel bands are a great alternative to towel clips.

Recommended: Towel bands (check price & over 2500 4.5* amazon reviews)

27. AirTags

Nowadays, it is very common for peoples luggage to get lost at the airport or even at the cruise port. AirTags are a great way to track your luggage so you will know where your luggage is at all times.

If you don’t have an iPhone, there are alternatives available as well.

Recommended: Apple AirTags (see price & over 50,000 amazon reviews)

Tip: Put an AirTag in each piece of luggage so you can ensure that your luggage has been boarded onto the cruise ship.

28. Motion Sensor Nightlight

This portable  motion sensor nightlight  is so practical and makes a  great gift for cruisers . This is especially handy for  inside cabins , which will be pitch black when the lights are off.

Recommended:  Battery operated nighlight

29. Portable Fan

Cruise cabins are pretty compact and can get stuffy, especially at night. This  small fan  is battery operated, but rechargeable, and gets great reviews on Amazon.

Recommended:  Portable Travel Mini Fan

30. Wrinkle Release Spray

Cruise cabins will not have irons , as they’re a fire hazard. Clothes steamers are prohibited on most cruise ships as well. So  Downy Wrinkle Release  spray is a good way to  get wrinkles out of your cruise outfits . 

Recommended:   Downy Wrinkle Release (travel size)

24. Beach Bag

It’s a good idea to bring a  large beach bag  that can be used for to pack for a beach day on a Bahamas or Caribbean cruise, or to use on the ship as well (for sunscreen, towels, books, water bottles and more).

Recommended:  Large beach bag (zippered & waterproof)

25. Tote Bag

Bring a tote bag for shopping and cruise excursions on your first cruise. This cute  mesh tote bag  is perfect for beach days too!

Recommended:  Mesh tote bag (available in different colors)

26. Motion Sickness Medication

Being affected by motion sickness is a worry for many people who are going on their first cruise. You’ll likely be just fine. However having an over the counter seasickness medication like dramamine or bonine is always a good idea, just in case.

Recommended: Bonine

27. Seabands

Make sure to have some motion sickness remedies, as it’s always possible to be affected by some  seasickness during your cruise .

Seabands are a practical, natural remedy for many experienced cruisers.

Recommended:  Seabands (see both adult and children’s sizes on Amazon)

28. Ginger Candies

Ginger candies are a natural way to ease an upset stomach or mild motion sickness on a cruise. They’re great on small boat excursions and tenders as well.

Recommended:   Tummydrops   ginger candies

30. Portable Charger

All first cruisers should pack a  portable charger  or power bank. On your cruise, the days spent in port can be long and it’s easy for your phone’s battery to run low. This portable charger will charge your cell phone very fast!

Recommended:  Portable cell phone charger (see price & details on Amazon here)

An alternative that is small, and really good for traveling is this compact phone charger .

Recommended: Compact phone charger (see price & 18,000+ Amazon reviews)

31. Reusable Water Bottle

An essential item to pack for a cruise these days are  refillable water bottles that are insulated to stay cool. You can fill our water bottles at the drink stations on most cruise ships.

Recommended:  Refillable & collapsible water bottles (check price & 7000+ Amazon reviews)

32. Foldable Lightweight Backpack

Bringing a  lightweight backpack  for your cruise is a great idea. Whether you take an excursion or if you are simply walking over to the beach from your cruise ship, having a water resistant foldable backpack will be so useful!

Recommended:  Foldable backpack (water resistant)

33. Electronics Travel Organizer Case

If you’re bringing electronic items, a travel organizer case help you to stay organized.

Recommended: Electronics organizer case

Bonus Items For First Time Cruisers:

Here are some bonus items to pack for first time cruisers . These aren’t items that every cruiser needs, however they are items that many cruisers enjoy bringing on their cruises.

33. Goggles

If you’re cruising with your kids, make sure you bring goggles for pool days.

Recommended: Goggles

34. Snorkel Gear

If you love the beach, ocean and sea life, it’s a good idea to pack your own  snorkel gear . You won’t regret it packing snorkeling gear for your cruise vacation.

Recommended:  Snorkel set with panoramic & anti-fog view (check price & reviews on Amazon)

35. Microfibre Beach Towels

While you can take the cruise ship’s towels to the beaches and off the ship, many cruisers say they prefer to use  lightweight micro-fibre sand-free towels . These towels are quick dry, larger than a normal tower and absorbent.

Recommended:  Microfibre Sand-free beach towels

36. Bluetooth Headphones

One of the best parts about cruising, is sitting by the pool and relaxing in the sun. On most cruises, there will be either a live band or music playing throughout the day.

If you like listening to your own music, then you’ll likely want to bring a pair of good earphones .

Recommended: Bluetooth headphones (great quality for the price)

When avid cruisers are asked for their favorite things to bring on a cruise, the Kindle is highly recommended. Rather than bringing heavy books, download as many as you like on your Kindle.

Recommended: Kindle Paperwhite

38. Cruise Themed T-Shirts

If you’re going on a family cruise, a group cruise or if you want to have a little bit of extra fun, consider getting some cruise themed t-shirts . This fun cruise shirt is a great example!

Recommended: Cruise graphic t-shirt

39. Water Shoes

These lightweight  water shoes  are very comfortable and easy to pack for your cruise. Generally, the sand is soft in Bermuda and the Caribbean, however there are large rocks on certain beaches. The rocks can be rough and water shoes will come in handy.

Recommended:   Water shoes/Water socks (see different color choices on Amazon)

40. Mesh Foldable Hamper

Like it or not, you’ll have some dirty clothes on your cruise, and you don’t want it getting in the way. A pop-up mesh hamper is a great space saving cruise cabin hack.

Recommended: Pop-up Foldable Mesh Hamper

41. Lock Box Safe Box

Wondering how to keep your belongings safe on a cruise and on excursions? This lock box portable safe is a popular cruise and beach essential.

Recommended: Portable safe (see price & reviews on Amazon here)

42. Waterproof Phone Case

A must for water sports and shore excursions, these waterproof phone cases are great to store cash and credit cards, cruise cards, identification and more.

Recommended: Waterproof phone case (see over 2000 4.5* reviews)

43. Travel Luggage Scale

If you’re flying to and from your cruise, it’s important to bring a travel luggage scale so you know you’re luggage isn’t over the weight limit.

Recommended: Travel luggage scale

44. Money Belt

A money belt is very useful if you’re going on a cruise and want to keep your passports and money safe, especially if you’re in cruise ports where pickpocketing might be a concern.

A money belt or neck wallet is a good addition to a Mediterranean cruise packing list.

Recommended: Money belt (available in several colors)

45. Travel Binoculars

You may see marine and other wildlife during your cruise. Travel binoculars are especially good to pack for Alaska cruises as well as cruises that go to Canada and New England.

Recommended: Lightweight travel binoculars

Related & Popular Posts:

• How to Prevent and Treat Seasickness on a Cruise: 10 Effective Remedies
• Best Packing Cubes for Cruises & How to Use Them
• 12 Things to Do as Soon as You Get Into Your Cruise Cabin
• 15+ Best Cruise Dresses: Amazon Ladies Resort Wear
• 10 Things to Never Do on a Cruise Ship Balcony
• 13 Cruise Main Dining Room Tips All Cruisers Need to Know
• 10 Things You’ll Regret NOT Doing on Your Next Cruise
• 17 Cruise Ship Cabins to Avoid

Final Thoughts on What to Pack for Your First Cruise

Well there it is, everything you need to pack for your first cruise!

If you’re a first time cruiser, it can be hard to know what clothing and items to bring on your cruise. If you’re feeling a bit overwhelmed before your cruise, don’t worry!

This cruise packing list includes the essentials and cruise accessories you might need.

If you’re planning your first cruise, please let me know any questions or comments you might have in the comments below.

Happy Cruising!

If you enjoy this post please don’t keep it to yourself ;-). Please feel free to share on Facebook or Pinterest (share buttons at the top). Thanks so much!

Author Bio: Ethan Schattauer writes about fashion, travel and college advice on the website WhatToWearMen.com . As a frequent cruiser, Ethan shares his unique perspective on what cruising is like for teens and young adults.

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

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

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

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

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

See all of our cruise articles

Cruise Packing Checklist

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

See text version of the cruise packing list

Cruise Packing Tips

1. Pack by subtraction

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

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

Also read: Top 10 Cruise Tips and Hacks

2. Pack your carryon for the long haul

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

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

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

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

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

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

3. Pack like you’re going to a resort

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

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

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

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

4. Pack layers

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

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

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

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

5. Suck out all of the air

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

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

6. Go for the freebies

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

Also read: Tips for Going on a River Cruise

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7. Cruise Packing Hacks

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

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

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

Cruise Packing List

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

Pack in Your Luggage

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

Pack in Your Carry-on

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

Also read:  Should You Buy The Cheapest Travel Insurance?

Cruise Travel Protection

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

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Welcome Cruise Lover! If you’re wondering what to pack for a cruise, you’ve come to the right place!

Find out all our cruising packing tips and tricks, advice on how to pack, the best luggage to take on a cruise and more!

Use our cruise packing checklists to help you work out what to pack and get organzied!

Need ideas on cruise outfits or what to wear? Start here!

Packing Tips for First Time Cruisers

If you’ve never been on a cruise before and are feeling overwhelmed at the thought of packing, don’t stress! We’ve got you covered! Head over to cruise packing tips for first time cruisers here and find out how to get started organising what to pack for a cruise.

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Need a bit of extra help? We’ll run you through exactly how to pack for a cruise, what to wear on a cruise, the best luggage to bring and what to leave at home. You’ll get a short series of emails over the next few weeks to help guide you through planning your cruise packing. It’s easy and FREE!

Cruise Packing List Printable & Tips to Help You Pack

Looking for a cruise packing list printable? Feel free to print as many as you need!

Packing for a cruise is a bit different than packing for other travel. This is why I created this specific cruise packing list covering all the essentials you'll be needing on the ship.

Most people have no idea what to take on cruise ships, other than the clothes they will be wearing and some toiletries. Believe it or not, I use my own list all the time.

I just sailed on the Costa Smeralda ship from Barcelona to Rome and had everything I need because it was written down as I packed.

Being on a cruise without the things you need can put a damper on your vacation. Be prepared and pack all your favorite items in your bag the night before.

First Things First

Where you're going will, of course, have an impact on how you're packing. Choosing clothes for an Alaskan cruise if very different than packing for a Caribbean cruise.

We just took a cruise to Alaska and carried on! I'll be sharing that soon. Make sure you check on the best time to cruise to Alaska before you go.

We all have those items we don't want to be without. Whether it's your favorite sunglasses or that anchor earrings set you bought just for the cruise, it's no fun realizing you left something at home.

Who wants to worry about what you forgot during the entire drive to the airport? Been there, done that!

Now I mark things off my list as they go into my packing cubes and then in my suitcase.

By the way, I found the best packing cubes . My dirty clothes go right back in them and they are machine washable!

Cruise Packing List

I've been rerouted a few times and had my bag arrive at my destination in the middle of the night. It's frustrating when you don't have your toiletries.

Last year my husband and I vacationed in Europe and waited for our bags for three days. Fortunately, we were on a Viking Rhine River Cruise and they laundered our clothes every day. It was a good thing I followed my cruise packing list and brought a day bag!

First, you need to know specifically what you want to pack for a cruise. Gather your clothes and pack them as you decide what to take.

Look at the weather, and then look at it again! Pack a small umbrella just in case. I've never regretted having a compact umbrella stuck in the pocket of my backpack.

Formal Night

There are usually formal nights on the ship. If you want to dress up, I'd suggest bringing a nice pair of slacks and a few matching tops.

Long dresses are usually heavier, and as you probably don't want to wear the same dress to each restaurant, I think pants work better.

As I said, the most important thing to remember is your day bag and to use that cruise packing list. Write on the list. Check the boxes. You'll have peace of mind in knowing what is in your bag. Check those two off and you'll be set!

 Pack a Day Bag

On a cruise, you may not get your luggage until sometime in the evening. You’ll want to have your bathing suit, cover-up, and flip flops in case you decide to spend some time at the pool. Pack a book or iPad for reading while you’re lounging with a cocktail. Ah. Doesn’t that sound lovely?

Always be sure your medications are with you. Finally, you'll want to have your toiletries so you can freshen up before dinner.

Please don't forget your sunscreen! The ship may have what you need in an emergency, but why take chances when you can easily pack what you need in a separate bag?

Shore Excursions

Once you've booked your excursions, you'll have a better idea of what you need. Going to a private beach is a no-brainer as you'll need your bathing suit, cover-up, a hat, and sunscreen.

But going on a 5 mile hike requires different things. I'd pack a small lightweight backpack, good walking shoes, the best socks you have, and a hat.

Decorating Your Cruise Cabin Door

In addition, some cruise lines allow you to decorate your cruise door, so you’ll want to take supplies. You may find decorations in the shop, but why pay more when you can shop ahead of time and get exactly what you want? It’s fun to get creative. Who wants to have the same door as everyone else?

Amazon has some great craft supplies that will make your door the best on your floor, maybe on the entire ship! You can choose from a  Cruise Ship Door Cover Party Accessory  which will cover your whole door or simply get creative in designing the door decor yourself.

I went on a cruise with a large group and took photos, so it may give you ideas by taking a look at these 10 Ideas for Cruise Door Decorations .

Also, remember your identification should be with you, and not in your luggage. That may sound silly, but I was with a group once where someone had put her purse in her suitcase. Once your bags are checked, it’s not easy to get them before they're taken to your room.

Keep Valuables With You

Your laptop, camera, and other tech or valuables should also be in your day bag. I have never had anything stolen on a cruise, but it's really better to keep your valuables with you. Once you're in your room, you can put them in the safe.

Packing for Kids

If you have children, you will also want to be sure you have everything you need for them. Moms usually get stuck with packing for the younger family members!

Let them pack their own bag if they are old enough, with a little supervision from you, of course.

Getting on the ship with an entire duffle bag of stuffed animals is what I would have ended up with when my kids were young!

Ready to get started? Use the below cruise packing list printable. That's one thing out of the way. Have you chosen your excursions yet? Cruising is so much fun! Enjoy your vacation!

I have  packing lists  for other vacations, too. Print as many as you need. You may also want to check out these  cruise ship games  if you’re going with friends or family.

Before planning your next trip, check out this post on how to save money on cruises .

Join my Cruising board on Pinterest and save This Article to Pinterest for Later!

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The post Cruise Packing List Printable & Tips to Help You Pack appeared first on Food Fun & Faraway Places .

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Don’t You Forget About These: 5 Defining Brat Pack Movies

With the documentary “Brats” coming to the Tribeca Festival and Hulu, here’s a look back at ’80s movies featuring young stars who defined a generation.

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By Mekado Murphy

The 1980s: when the hair was crimped, the pants were parachute and the movie stars were as fresh-faced as could be. The decade produced a surprising volume of hit coming-of-age movies, featuring actors often in their late teens and early twenties. Some of these charismatic stars would come to be known as the Brat Pack, a term coined by the writer David Blum in a 1985 New York magazine article about the youth movie phenomenon.

At the time, the stars who were considered a part of the Brat Pack were offended by the term, one that seemed dismissive of their work and painted them as careless and unprofessional. The actor Andrew McCarthy had been grappling for decades with how the term changed the trajectory of his career, and he decided to make a documentary about it. In “Brats,” which is premiering at the Tribeca Festival on Friday and streaming on Hulu beginning June 13, McCarthy reconnects with some of his ’80s co-stars (including Rob Lowe, Emilio Estevez, Ally Sheedy and Demi Moore) to discuss how being in the Brat Pack affected them, for better or worse.

Despite the negative connotations of the term, the Brat Pack movies truly did come to define a generation, and the documentary shines a light on what these movies meant, and still do mean, to young people (even as the culture has changed). While a dozen or so movies qualify as Brat Pack selections, below is a look at five of the most defining films for the moniker, and why they had such an impact.

‘The Breakfast Club’ (1985)

Detention has never been as fascinating as it is in this John Hughes classic, about five archetypal students forced to endure a Saturday together in the school library: the brain (Anthony Michael Hall), the athlete (Estevez), the basket case (Sheedy), the princess (Molly Ringwald) and the criminal (Judd Nelson). They trade jabs, laugh, cry and share personal stories that allow them to see one another as individuals rather than as the convenient labels placed on them.

It was, and continues to be, a kind of guidebook on how to endure as a teenager, especially when under pressure to act or present oneself a certain way. The performances are top-notch, especially from Ringwald, who turns her popular-girl character into one with whom we can all relate.

Stream “The Breakfast Club” on Max.

‘The Outsiders’ (1983)

Francis Ford Coppola’s film adaptation of the 1967 S.E. Hinton novel is in many ways the godfather of the Brat Pack movies. Its ensemble cast includes actors who would become some of the biggest stars of the decade: Rob Lowe, Matt Dillon, Patrick Swayze, Estevez and a little-known performer named Tom Cruise. The Tulsa-set film features C. Thomas Howell and Ralph Macchio as two “greasers” with tough backgrounds who find themselves in hot water after a tussle with wealthy “socs,” short for “socials.”

It’s a joy to watch all of these up-and-coming stars at the beginnings of their careers, navigating a story that Coppola punctuates with Hollywood flourishes that imbue some John Ford western energy into the mix. Even though many of these characters have never left Oklahoma, they seem to be carrying the weight of the world on their shoulders. The film gives teen alienation a bold canvas on which to be explored.

Stream “The Outsiders” on Tubi.

‘St. Elmo’s Fire’ (1985)

This film, directed by Joel Schumacher, is another Brat Packer that sparks, if you will, because of its eager ensemble cast. What makes it so interesting is that its young characters are trying hard for a level of responsibility. But they keep tripping over their flaws of immaturity in the process.

Lowe, McCarthy, Nelson, Estevez and Sheedy are all in the mix (and Lowe’s character plays a mean saxophone), but one of the standouts is Moore. While her breakout was in the year prior with sex comedies like “Blame It on Rio” and “No Small Affair,” she really glows here as the character Jules, whose outgoing personality and garishness mask some deep psychological wounds. This is definitely not another sex comedy.

Stream “St. Elmo’s Fire” on Paramount+.

‘Pretty in Pink’ (1986)

Are you Team Blane or Team Duckie? This is a perennial question for those infatuated with this teen romance written by John Hughes and directed by Howard Deutch. Ringwald stars as Andie Walsh, a girl from a low-income upbringing who lives with her single father. She has a lifelong friendship with the quirky outsider Duckie (Jon Cryer) and a very new crush on Blane (McCarthy), a rich kid whom Andie is ashamed to tell where she lives. James Spader also plays a memorable role as Steff, a rich friend of Blane’s who treats Andie with disrespect.

And while Cryer is more Brat Pack-adjacent than an actual member, his character pretty much steals this movie with his outfits and his antics, including a lip sync and dance he performs in a record shop to Otis Redding’s “Try a Little Tenderness.” How can you not be Team Duckie after seeing that?

Rent or buy “Pretty in Pink” on major platforms.

‘Class’ (1983)

This comedic drama was significant for being McCarthy’s debut feature, where he also delivers one of his most heartfelt performances. His character, Jonathan, is met with obstacles from the moment he arrives at his new prep school. He is immediately talked into putting on a bra and panties by his roommate, Skip (Lowe), as part of what he thinks is a school tradition, and then is sent outside and locked out of the dorm while wearing them.

Things change for the unlucky-in-love boy when Skip gives him money to head to Chicago to try to meet and bed a girl in the big city. At a bar, Jonathan encounters an older woman (Jacqueline Bisset) and they hook up. Only later does he find out that the woman is Skip’s mother. The revelation is played more awkwardly and dramatically than comically. While Bisset delivers a tempered, yet passionate performance, the movie’s real chemistry is between McCarthy and Lowe, who seem to have a natural ease with each other onscreen.

Stream “Class” on the Roku Channel.

Mekado Murphy is the assistant film editor. He joined The Times in 2006. More about Mekado Murphy

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