cruise packing list 5 days

Ultimate 5 Day Cruise Packing List

Post author: Rachel Pedranti
Post published: March 2, 2018
Post category: Travel
Post comments: 0 Comments

Are you at a loss on what to bring on your cruise? So was I at first, but after 5+ cruises here is my trusty 5 day cruise packing list that helps make sure I’m prepared every time.

Our first cruise was to a warm destination: the Bahamas! And it was a 5 day cruise but this cruise packing list can be easily modified for shorter or longer cruises as well as for colder climates. Make sure you pack items that can be mixed and matched to make your wardrobe go further. Just have fun and remember a vacation is for relaxing. 🙂 So here it is:

This post may contain some affiliate links. This means I make a small profit from your purchase but at no increased cost to you. I only recommend products that I love and would purchase myself! Full disclaimer here .

Cruise Packing List

For the downloadable and customizable version you will want to enter your email below and it will be sent directly to your inbox!

4 Shirts/Tank Tops
1-2 Pair Pants
2 Casual Dresses
Dress for Elegant Night
5 Underwear
3-4 Swimsuits
1-2 Swimsuit Covers
Jacket
Jewelry
1-2 Exercise Outfits
Socks
Tennis Shoes (for adventurous excursions)
Dress Shoes
Casual Shoes

Toiletries:

Hair Blow Dryer
Dry Shampoo
Shaving Cream
Contact Solution
Ponytail Holders
Conditioner
Feminine Supplies
Aspirin, Medications

Travel Documents:

Personal ID
Credit or Debit Cards
Cash (If its outside of the U.S.)

Electronics:

Cell Phone and Chargers
Laptop and Charger
Hard drive (to back up your photos)
Camera Batteries
Power strip
Dramamine or Nausea Aide
Back Pack/ Day Pack
Book or Kindle
Water Bottle
First Aid kit
Wireless speaker
Head Phones
Hand Sanitizer
Snorkel Gear (if you have it, but it is definitely NOT a necessity)
Extra Ziploc Bags

Extra Ziploc Bags were so handy for putting our phones, extra cash, and other small items in when we wanted to make sure they wouldn’t get wet

Dramamine is a medication that helps decrease nausea if you get seasick

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What to Bring on a 5 Day Cruise

Hopefully this Ultimate Cruise Packing List has been helpful to you. Let me know any additional suggestions in the comments! If your cruise leaves out of Miami check out these suggestions for things to do in Miami !

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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)

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ULTIMATE 5 day cruise packing list

Looking for the ULTIMATE 5 day cruise packing list? In this guide we tell you exactly what to pack for a 5 day cruise no matter the destination. It includes what to wear on a 5 day cruise for dress codes, shore excursions and more.

Important Note : This post may contain affiliate links which means if you click through and make a purchase I will make a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Note : Although this is a universal 5 day cruise packing list, it is worth noting that there are always some regional difference due to weather, climate and cultural sensitivities. So why not also check out our destination specific cruise packing lists.

Our specific location packing lists for cruises include:

What to wear on a cruise to Alaska
What to wear on a South Pacific Cruise
What to wear on a European River Cruise
What to wear on a Med Cruise
How to make a river cruise capsule wardrobe
World Cruise Packing List.
What to wear on a Caribbean Cruise

Table of Contents

How many outfits should I pack for a 5 day cruise?

Carnival Cruise Ship, the Carnival Fantasy docked in Nassau the Bahamas

Before we get into our 5 day cruise packing list we will first think about how many outfits you should pack for a 5 day cruise. This includes what to wear in the main dining, on formal nights and more.

Although you should have plenty of space in your case if your cruise only lasts 5 days, we still recommend your try and avoid overpacking. That is because cruise cabins are notoriously small so you want to maximise your space.

To do this we recommend packing a cruise capsule wardrobe where you can use items multiple times in different outfits. So methods we use to create out capsule wardrobes, no matter the season, is the sudoku packing method, which uses 9 key wardrobe pieces to make multiple outfits. This is a great way to reduce the amount of items you are packing but ensuring you have multiple outfits for a 5 day cruise.

5 day cruises are easier, in my opinion, to pack a capsule wardrobe for than say a world cruise because they are often closed loop and don’t travel great distances therefore you won’t need to worry about packing for lots of different weather conditions.

Another great packing method for cruises is the 54321 packing method .

The next thing that affects how many outfits you need for a cruise is how often you intend to use the main dining room and how many formal nights there are on your cruise.

Cruise dining rooms usually have a smart casual dress code and you will find most people usually change for dinner.

For most days on a cruise there isn’t a formal dress code. On these days I use day to night transition pieces such as a smart casual blouse or nice Maxi dress, that I can wear to dinner one night and then use during the day the next day. This helps reduce the amount of clothes you take with you.

Now depending on the length of your cruise will determine how many formal nights there are. Formal nights are evenings when people dress to impress in the formal dining room. On more traditional cruise lines such as Cunard you may see tuxedos however on most lines these translates to cocktail dress and chinos with a jacket and tie for men.

On a 5 night cruise you can expect there to be only 1 formal night so you don’t have to worry too much about packing lots of formal outfits.

Note : if you are traveling on Norwegian cruise line which has freestyle dining there are no formal nights at all.

Overall I would have an outfit for each day of your cruise, which could be mixed and match to make part of a smart casual evening outfit as well as one formal outfit using the sudoku method using just 9 items of clothes.

Going on a different length cruise – then check out our other packing lists:

4 day cruise packing list.
7 day cruise packing list
14 day cruise packing list

Note : remember to pack your cruise carry on carefully. This needs to include everything you need until your luggage is returned to your stateroom including a change of clothes for dinner, swimwear and any medications and essential toiletries .

What to wear on a 5 Day Cruise

Woman on beach in shorts looking at a Norwegian Cruise SHip

Now we have looked at the things that will affect how many outfits you should take on a 5 day cruise, we will now give you an overview of the types of outfits we pack. This includes the number of formal outfits as well as what to wear on a four day cruise for excursions, pool time and more.

Note : the outline below does not take into account the weather for your cruise but gives you an idea of what should make up each of the dress code scenarios you find on a cruise. If you want more specific guidance check out our regional specific cruise guides and our cruise line specific guides:

Norwegian Cruise Dress Code
Carnival Cruise Line Dress Code
Celebrity Cruises Dress Code
Disney Cruise Line Dress Code
MSC Cruises Dress Code
Princess Cruises Dress Code
Royal Caribbean Dress Code

Formal Outfits (1 outfits)

If you are traveling on a line, other than Norwegian Cruise line which has no formal dress codes , you can usually expect just 1 formal night on a 5 day cruise.

For women on formal nights cocktail dresses, maxi dress and jumpsuits are all appropriate. And you may even see ball gowns or evening dresses on some of the more formal cruise lines. However if this is not your style then a pant suit is also a great idea.

For men we recommend chinos and jacket with a shirt and tie. A Tux is also suitable on most line for men, but is definitely not expected anymore. For more men’s cruise outfit inspiration check out this post.

Also remember, if you don’t want to use the main dining room on formal night, then you can leave a formal outfit off your packing list.

Also remember that public areas on cruise ships are notoriously chilly due to the air conditioning. Therefore it is worth having a pashmina, dressy cardigan or jacket with you for wearing at night on a cruise.

Smart Casual Outfits (4 outfits)

I usually pack 3smart casual outfits, one for each evening other than the formal night.

All items in this category will be interchangeable as part of my cruise capsule wardrobe and I may partner a top from a dinner with different bottoms for a casual shore excursion look.

Casual Outfits 4 outfits + my embarkation day outfit)

Again, I pack a cruise capsule wardrobe where everything is interchangeable. For a 4 day cruise this will normally 4 outfits along with my embarkation day outfit.

For me this usually consists of 3-4 t shirts and 2 bottoms i.e. shorts, jeans or chinos depending on the weather and destination of the cruise.

Swimwear (2 pieces)

If you are going to a hot weather destination however you will want to pack at least 2 swimsuits with you so you can wear one and dry one.

Whenever I get on a cruise ship I first like to head to the main dining room for lunch, and then I like to have either a dip in the pool or a soak in the hot tub. I do this whether I am a hot weather or cold weather cruise.

Therefore one of the pieces of swimwear I will pack in my carry on and the other will be in my checked luggage.

Beach Cover

Useful for on the pool deck and if you are heading to beaches as part of your cruise itinerary.

Sunglasses

Useful for in ports but also on sea days when the sun can be dazzling.

An essential whenever you are cruising as the air conditioning on ships can be fierce. For more travel essentials for women check out this post.

One set is enough.

Underwear (5 sets plus spares)

I will also have underwear enough for the cruise and a few spares

Now I don’t like to bring too much jewelry with me on cruises as I don’t wear it on shore excursions.

However I do love to wear something on formal night.

If you are nervous about traveling with expensive jewelry we recommend leaving your expensive items in the safe when you aren’t wearing them on the ship. And alternatively there is lots of great costume jewelry on the market which is less stressful to travel with.

Whatever type of jewelry you decide to travel with be sure to check out our guide on how to pack jewelry for travel check out this post here.

Shoes (3 Pairs)

Shoes for me are the thing that can make or break packing light for a cruise .

I always try to limit shoes I pack to 2-3 pairs. For me there are a couple of essential pairs of shoes to pack for a 5 day cruise no matter the destination. These are:

Sneakers – these work on cities, countryside and more tropical locations. If you are traveling to a hot weather location we recommend getting a light weight pair. Otherwise a white pair of sneakers are very versatile.
Sandals – I like a pair that can be good for walking and that can also be used in the main dining room

Note: sandals can be replaced with ankle boots for cold weather destinations and Christmas market river cruises.

But on top of these there are some optional shoes you may want pack depending on where you cruise is heading. These are:

Heels / Smart Shoes- if you want them for formal night.
Flip Flops – useful if you plan to spend a lot of time on the pool deck but not good for European cities when walking.
Water Shoes – useful if you are going on a Caribbean or cruise to the South Pacific where you will be snorkelling and where there can be hazards such as lion fish and coral.
Coat (optional)

Only useful if you are not cruising to a tropical destination i.e. an Alaska Cruise or Europe in Winter.

What do I need to pack for a 5 day cruise (non clothing)?

So now you know roughly how many outfits you need and what to wear on a 5 day cruise we will now turn our attention to everything you need to pack for a cruise no matter the destination:

Passport/identification and essential documentation

A Passport and identification is always required regardless of the length of cruise and destination (ID can be used in some cases of closed loop cruises).

It is important to remember that you need this to be in your embarkation day carry on as is required for boarding. As there are so many documents that you need to carry with you for cruise embarkation we think a passport holder is a travel essential .

This can also hold your other essential documentation such as visas and any vaccination documentation that you may need for your cruise and destination.

And don’t forget that you will also need:

Luggage Tags

Cruises will provide you with luggage tags to label your luggage with so it arrives at your stateroom. Be sure to print these off in advance as it will save you time in the terminal.

You will see many people using a lanyard to carry their cabin card including me. The reason is this is your cruise identification and payment method on board so it is super important to keep with you are all times. A lanyard is a good way to do this.

When looking for a cruise lanyard we think that the best ones are waterproof so can be used on shore excursions where you will be spending a lot of time in the water and can also be used to keep small amounts of cash and a government issued id.

Click here to shop the best lanyards for cruise travel.

Top of my travel toiletries packing list is medication. Just remember to pack any meds you need in your carry on and be sure to have prescriptions with you.

As well as prescription medication some other medications you may like to travel with include:

pain medications such as Advil, paracetamol, Tylenol and Ibuprofen
Reflux Meds such as Gaviscon, Tums etc.
Birth Control

Sea sickness medication or bands

I personally have never gotten sea sick on a cruise ship and I have cruised on some very rough seas. But that is not to say that no one will ever experience seasickness on a cruise.

If you are concerned about sea sickness be sure to pack some meds with you just in case.

There are lots of different methods to combat sickness from tablets, wristbands, ginger and more so pick the method that you think will work best for you.

Click here to shop sea sickness medication

Universal Travel Adaptor

Depending on where you are from and who you are sailing with, a universal travel adaptor may be an essential to make sure that all your electronics will work.

Click here to shop universal travel adaptors.

Most new ships will have USB charging ports next to the bed however this is by no means on all ships. Don’t get caught out and take a charger with you and a spare cable.

What toiletries to pack for a cruise / cruise toiletries checklist

Although most ships provide toiletries I will always pack some on my own as I think they are better quality than those you get on board most cruise ships.

For more information on the best toiletries to bring on a cruise check out this post. But generally speaking I tend to always pack the following for cruises no matter the destination:

Shampoo and Conditioner

Shampoo and conditioner that can help your hair cope with heat and seawater.

Toothbrush and toothpaste

Although toiletries are usually provided you will need to bring your own tooth brush and toothpaste.

It is important to be sun safe whereever in the world you are cruising. This is usually available onboard but will cost you a premium if you wait and buy on board.

If you plan on spending time in water we recommend buying sunscreen that is reef safe. Our current favorite brand is Sunbum. Click here to shop reef safe sunscreen.

The contrast between the nice weather on a warm weather cruise with the cruise ship air conditioning is the perfect recipe for getting dry lips.

We always recommend packing lip balm that has an SPF so your lips are protected when on beach excursions etc. Again my favorite brand is Sun Bum. Click here to shop lip balm for cruise ships.

Make-Up (optional)

I personally always have make-up with me when I go on a cruise for dinners in the evening. However it is easy to overpack.

For this reason I try to limit travel make-up. After perfecting my makeup bag packing over many trips my travel make up essentials tend to be:

Waterproof Mascara – especially useful for destinations where you will be doing lots of swimming and snorkelling or just rainy destinations.
Tinted Moisturiser with SPF
Eye Shadow Palette such as Nars and Charlotte Tilbury.
Make Up Remover Wipes.

But my favorite travel beauty product is the Nars Multiple .

This is one makeup stick that can be used beautifully on eyes, cheeks and lips which greatly reduces the amount you need to pack.

Period Products

For those expecting their period on their travels. A menstrual cup is a great option for reducing the amount of products you have to take as well as being good for the environment.

Travel Razor

I always have a compact travel razor with me no matter the destination but it is especially important for me when I know I will be swimming or sunbathing. Click here to buy travel razors.

Brush and Hair Ties

A mix collection of hair ties are an essential especially if you have long hair.

If you have more space you could add any of your other hair accessories too.

The best thing about cruises are the ports you get to visit. You definitely will want to capture your memories with a camera.

If you are traveling on a cruise with lots of water excursions and plan on snorkelling it might be worth getting a GoPro to capture your underwater memories. Click here to shop underwater cameras .

What to pack for a 5 day cruise (Optional)

This is only needed if you plan to use the gym on board your cruise ship. If you don’t plan to then leave this behind.

Can you bring a corkscrew on a cruise ship? Can you bring a wine opener on a cruise ship? corkscrew on white background

Depending on the line you are on, you will be permitted to Bring on board a small amount of alcohol – usually just champagne or wine.

If you are allowed to bring alcohol on board we recommend using your allowance as this will be cheaper than drinks on the ship. But be sure to check your cruise ship rules before travel so it meets current requirements.

Note – wondering if you can bring a corkscrew on a cruise ship – check out this post for more information.

5 Day Cruise Packing List Checklist

1 Formal Outfit per person.
Pashmina
3 Smart Casual Outfits (can be made up of repeat pieces that make 3 looks).
3 Casual Outfits (can be made up of repeat pieces that make 3 looks).
2 items of Swimwear
Beachcover (optional)
Sandals – (or ankle boots in cold weather places)
Hiking boots (optional depending on the destination and itinerary).
Heels / Smarter Shoes – optional depending if you want to dress up for formal out
Passport and Identification
Documentation (including Covid 19 paperwork, test results and insurance to name but a few)
Medication
Sea Sickness Remedies
Toiletries
Lip Balm with SPF
Razor / Shaving Kit
Hair Brush and Hair Ties
Jewelry
Universal Travel Adaptor

Have you been on a 5 day cruise? What did you pack for a 5 day cruise let us know in the comments.

Protect Your Trip »

Cruise packing list: 56 essentials chosen by experts.

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

Essentials to Pack for a Cruise

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

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

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

Find your perfect cruise

Carry-on bag

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

Checked bag

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

Garment bag

Halfday The Garment Duffel in blue against white background.

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. You can often find these scales at your local Marshalls and HomeGoods stores too.

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

Front and back of Apple AirTag against white background.

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.

Poo-Pourri bottle against white background.

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 on board; 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

Open Bagsmart Electronics Organizer fills with cords against white background.

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."

Sea-Bands pack and bands in case against white background.

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 and 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 cruise 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

Patagonia Nano Puff Jacket in black against white background.

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

Allbirds Wool Runners in pink against neutral background.

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. The Naturalizer Bristol Sandal is an ideal choice, with a cushioned footbed, a 2.5-inch heel, and great reviews. It's also available in a variety of colors.

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.

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

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

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

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

Daytime clothing

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Evening clothing

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Here's your eveningwear packing list:

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

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

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

Related: 13 things you should do before every cruise

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

Here's your footwear packing list:

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

Accessories and gear

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

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

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

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

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

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

Toiletries and medicine

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Travel gear

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cabin enhancements

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Pack these items to enhance our cruise cabin:

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

Port day gear

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Miscellaneous items to pack for your cruise

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What not to pack for a cruise

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

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

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

Bottom line

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

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

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

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The Only Cruise Packing List You’ll Ever Need

By Elissa Garay

Last updated: July 18th, 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?

Women drinking wine while walking aboard Celebrity

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. 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.

People enjoying an Alaska whale watching cruise with binoculars

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.

Read: Cell Phones on a Cruise: Everything You Need to Know

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

Couple with hand-carry luggage on a cruise

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
Portable speaker
Waterproof phone case

Miscellaneous

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

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

Elissa Garay

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

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

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

Cruise packing tips and advice, final thoughts.

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Key Takeaways

Your cruise packing should include essentials like travel documents, medications, swimwear, formal attire for dining, and casual clothing for excursions.
Packing sunscreen, toiletries, and any necessary electronics, along with chargers and adapters, is also important.
Consider packing a small day bag for excursions and a lightweight jacket for cooler evenings or air-conditioned spaces onboard.

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

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

📋 Click Here to View Our Printable Cruise Packing List 📋

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

Getting Started

Check the weather.

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

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

How Many Nights Are You Away?

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

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

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

Are There Any Special Occasions or Themed Nights?

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

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

Make a Packing List Early

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

Choose the Right Luggage

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

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

Purchase Travel-Sized Items

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

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

What Electronics Should I Take?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Travel Admin

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

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

Your Passport

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

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

Your Tickets and Travel Documents

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

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

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

Your Personal Details

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

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

Packing Your Luggage

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

Get Everything Together and Lay It Out

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

Pick Capsule Items

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

A sample capsule wardrobe for a cruise vacation could include:

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

Remove Anything Unnecessary

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

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

Consider Washing Clothes on the Road

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

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

Fold, Interfold, Bundle, or Roll?

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

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

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

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

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

Use Packing Cubes

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

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

Secure Your Liquids

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

Stuff Your Shoes

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

Take Sticky Notes

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

Other niche items you may not have thought of are:

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

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

Airline Considerations

Check the airline baggage policy.

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

Cabin Luggage

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

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

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

Checked Luggage

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

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

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

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

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

The 3-1-1 rule essentially means:

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

Never Check Essentials

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

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

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

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

Apps for Packing

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

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

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

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

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

Travel List App

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

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

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

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

Packing List Checklist

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

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

Apps for Cruise Vacation Travel

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

Cruise Ship Mate

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

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

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

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

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

Cruise Card Control

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

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

Deck Director

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

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

The app is free for both iOS and Android devices.

How to Prepare Your House Before You Leave

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Complete Travel Packing Checklist for 2024 & the Best Packing Tips [Printable]

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Cruise Packing List | Ultimate 2024 Checklist [With PDF Download]

By jeremy camosse jun 2021.

The ULTIMATE Cruise Packing List with FREE, downloadable and printable PDF. Here are the exact clothes, accessories, and other gear you'll need for your cruise!

Our 2024 Cruise Packing List is the only checklist you'll need in preparation for your cruise vacation. From the "essentials" to the "extras," we've got you covered.

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

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

Clothes to Pack for a Cruise

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

Clothes to Bring on a Cruise Checklist Image

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

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

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

Cruise Packing List - Clothes

Athletic Shoes : You'll be doing a LOT of walking. You'll need a comfortable set of sneakers for the extra-long walks when exploring the ship, port, or hitting the gym.
Casual Shirts : Comfortable shirts are needed for strolling around, breakfast, port-stops, and more, throw on comfortable, casual shirt.
Dress Shirts : Pack dressier shirts and blouses for night-time activities such as dinner, shows, and lounges.
Dresses : Expect at least one "formal night" on your cruise. Check with your agent or the line to see how many you'll have. Consider bringing a dress for each that you plan to attend.
Gym Clothes : Cruise ships are equipped with running tracks, beautiful gyms, rock climbing walls, and many more opportunities to get active. Bring an outfit or two to get in on the action
Jacket / Windbreaker : The top deck of your ship will be windy (guaranteed). Also, ship venues will have the A/C cranking. Have a light jacket or windbreaker to keep warm.
Jeans : Jeans are great for mid to late day activities. You'll wear these often to events like bingo, exhibitions, snacking, etc.
Leisure Shoes : You'll want shoes somewhere between a sandal and a sneaker. They'll be necessary for walking around the ship or port in mid-range distances.
Pants : Whether sweatpants or slacks, we're sure you have your favorite pants you'll want to take on vacation.
Sandals / Flip Flops: Hopefully you'll spend a good amount of time poolside or visiting cruise port beaches. Sandals are a must.
Shorts : You'll want a few sets of shorts to slip on during the day.
Skirts : Pack some longer skirts for night-time activities or shorter skirts for day-time activities
Sleepwear : If you have a favorite set of jammies, make sure to stick those in your luggage. Your cabin could be warmer or colder than you're expecting based on the individual ship. Plan for either.
Swimsuits / Cover Ups: You'll want multiple swimsuits for the pool, jacuzzis, beaches, and maybe even waterslides. We bring 3-4 pairs for a seven-night cruise. You're expected to cover some skin when popping into the buffet and other eating venues, so pack a cover up for ease.
T-shirts : We typically pack 7 casual shirts or t-shirts for the week. Also, we love wearing a funny cruise shirt on Day 1 of the cruise. When wearing, you're guaranteed to make ship mates that you'll see throughout the week.
Undershirts / Bras : Easily overlooked and oh so necessary. The ship store will not have your favorite brand!
Underwear : Don't forget to pack that pair you've been saving for vacation. Ooh la la.

Accessories to Pack for a Cruise

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

Accessories to Bring on a Cruise Checklist Image

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

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

Cruise Packing List - Accessories

Sunglasses : The top decks of your ship will be super bright. Not to mention the powder-white sands at port. Grab a UV-protected set of sunglasses for extra care.
Watches : Cruise ships are infamous for their lack of clocks. As such, cruise passengers are infamous for missing out on events. Consider bringing a watch that's easy to adjust. Cruise ship staff may ask that you set your clock to a specific time (ship and port times can actually differ) to assure that you're back on board before the ship leaves.
Hat : We take a few hats with us. Some for "dress up" and then possibly another for the gym or jogging track.
Belts : This is probably one of the most forgotten items. A missing belt can ruin the whole outfit. Please note that cruise ships have been known to mysteriously shrink belts.
Jewelry : There are two schools of thought here. The first is to pack your fancy jewelry that you otherwise don't get to wear in "real life." Strategy Two is to only include the cheap stuff on your cruise packing list. We see the logic in both and will let you decide.
Purses : We bring purses for night-time activities (dinner, shows, bars) and small handbags for the essentials. Typically, one of each will do.
Journal : If you're like us, you enjoy capturing your cruise vacation in time. There's nothing better than sitting top deck with a warm coffee and journaling about the amazing cruise thus-far.

Toiletries to Pack for a Cruise

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

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

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

Cruise Packing List - Toiletries

Shaving Cream and Razors : Just know that your cruise cabin bathroom will be tiny. There's very little space to maneuver, in case that impacts your choice of shaving devices.
Toothbrush and Toothpaste : A tube of travel-sized toothpaste will last one person the full week... unless you really like the taste of toothpaste.
Tweezers : It always happens. You think to yourself, "I won't need these." Then two days into your vacation, you really wish you had them. They take up so little space, just pack them!
Makeup : You'll have seven full nights to get all "made up." Make sure to take advantage of each!
Makeup Remover : After a few drinks, it's so easy to just hit the hay without washing off "your face." Make it easy on yourself by packing some proper makeup remover.
Contacts & Solution : There will be plenty to see. Make sure you're able to fully take it all in by packing your contacts and solution.
Hair Brush: "Salt hair don't care" is a phrase that feels appropriate here.
Deodorant : Travel-sized may not be enough. Bring a full stick just to be "sure."
Floss : Food will be in abundance. And some of it may come in the form likely to get caught up in those teeth. You'll be glad that you packed floss.
Facial Cleanser : Your face will undergo a daily regimend of lotion, salt, sand, margaritas and more. Prepare to wipe the slate clean at the end of the night.
Shampoo & Conditioner : We use the cruise ship stocked shampoo and conditioner, but can appreciate that some like to add these to their cruise packing list.
Moisturizer : Unlike a hotel, typically a cruise cabin will not come equipped with moisturizer. Bring your own to stay hydrated.
Face Lotion : Keep your face healthy from the sun, lotion, makeup, and salt air from the week.

Electronics to Pack for a Cruise

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

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

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

Here are the items our family packs for each cruise.

Cruise Packing List - Electronics

Camera & Memory Card : Smartphones are great for capturing most photos. But, to get that underwater shot or for museum-quality photos, we like to bring our own gear.
Video & MP3 Player : We use this less on the cruise than we do traveling to our ship. While waiting for our plane or our embarkation group to be called, this is a great option to pass the time.
iPhone : We try to limit our phones to photos, the ship's texting plans, and emergency contacts.
Laptop & Charger : We're much more motivated to curate and edit photos or videos as we go. If we wait days or weeks to edit, it never gets done. A laptop is the easiest way to edit as we go.
iPhone Charger : Bring a good charger, not a dollar-store version. You'll find yourself waiting in your cabin while your device charges and you'll want to limit that downtime. A good charger will achieve that.
Cruise Cabin Power Strip : Your cabin has just one outlet. Turn two outlets into five with a small power strip. Note, cruise lines ban most power strips. This power strip is cruise approved .
eBooks : Another great way to spend the time. We love curling up with our favorite e-book while the sun sets. Make sure to download before you board the ship, as internet will be gone (or terrible) once at sea.
Earphones : Don't forget your favorite earbuds or noise cancelling headphones.

Health to Pack for a Cruise

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

Health Items to Bring on a Cruise Checklist Image

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

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

Cruise Packing List - Health Items

Compression Socks : Many in our community complain about the "swelling" that occurs on a cruise ship. We've also heard from many that compression socks are the best way to control this ailment.
Water Bottle : This is an absolute essential. It's surprisingly inconvenient to find a glass of water on the ship. Pack this and never get parched.
Reading Glasses : While you won't have access to your Wall Street Journal, you will be reading the Daily Planner and Dinner Menus with frequency.
Tissues : Tissues are always an essential when traveling, particularly with children.
Dramamine : Seasickness can be devastating to your cruise experience. If Dramamine isn't your cup of tea, here are 32 other ways to prevent or treat seasickness .
Prescription Meds : An obvious and super important item on our cruise packing list.
Vitamins : Your diet is in for a roller coaster of a ride. Bring vitamins and probiotics to supplement your health.
Pain Reliever : This can come in handy for common headaches or less common ailments like sore feet (from tearing up the dance floor).
Feminine Hygiene Products : Also available at the ship's sundry store if needed.
First Aid Kit : You can always visit your ship's medical facility when needed. We like to have this on-hand for minor cuts and scrapes as well.
Photocopy of Medications : In the rare case that you and your bags are separated, this will come in handy. This can also be used as a shopping list while in Mexico... totally joking - please don't do that.
Refillable Sanitizer Bottles : These are super convenient! Attach to your cruise lanyard or other accessory. Everywhere you go, you'll have sanitizer at the ready! Refillable Travel Sanitizer Bottles
Lip Balm : The cruise line gift shops likely make a killing charging 5x the cost of lip balm for all those forgetting to pack this essential item.
Sunscreen : Double up on your favorite sunscreen. We want to see you cruising for many years to come.

Money & Documents to Pack for a Cruise

Below are the money & documents you'll want to add to your cruise packing checklist.

Money & Documents to Bring on a Cruise Checklist Image

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

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

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

Cruise Packing List - Money & Documents

Cash : Don't worry about foreign cash. The almighty USD is all that you'll need at any of your cruise ports.
Credit Cards : Always default to your credit card rather than your debit card when on a cruise. You'll be much more protected in situations where it's necessary.
Passport & ID : Technically, you probably won't need your passport. But if you have an active passport, we strongly encourage you to bring it.
Photocopies of ID's : In the case that your ID or passport is stolen, this will be critical. Consider hard copies and digital copies as backup.
Insurance Information : Most personal insurance plans aren't covered on cruise vacations. You'll want cruise-specific coverage. Here's a great article on what you'll need and what you can expect to pay.
Pen and Paper : You'll need a pen to fill out boarding and customs docs. A pad of paper could also come in handy for those note-takers out there.
Boarding Pass : The cruise line will email your boarding pass. When showing up to your embarkation port, they'll ask for this. It's not 100% necessary, but will save some time.
Excursion Confirmations : It's a good idea to book shore tours in advance. Search all major providers using Gangwaze. Once booked, print and pack your confirmations.
Emergency Numbers : Include essential contacts back on shore in the case that someone needs contacting in an emergency.

Extras to Pack for a Cruise

Below are the "extras" you'll want to add to your cruise packing checklist.

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

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

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

Cruise Packing List - Extras

Cruise Luggage Tag Holders : Your cruise line will email your e-tags before your cruise. They'll advise you to staple these to your luggage. We're better than that. Cruise Luggage Tags on Amazon .
Playing Cards : Gin Rummy has never been more fun than when played listening to the crashing ocean waves.
Bottle of Wine : Most cruise lines allow you to bring one bottle of wine. Don't lick a gift horse in the mouth... or whatever that expression.
Travel Pillow : Great for the plane ride, but also wonderful in your deck chair.
Towel Bands : The Lido Deck is super windy. Don't lose your towel (and towel deposit) to Mother Earth. Towel bands are a perfect way to secure these to your chair. They also make it easier to find your beach chair in a sea of similar towels. Cruise Towel Bands on Amazon
Ear Plugs : Your cruise neighbors and their noise level is entirely up to chance. Be prepared.
Cruise Lanyards : Never lose your cruise key card again. Also protect money and credit cards while at port. Cruise Lanyards on Amazon .
Cruise Cabin Night Light : One of the most brilliant cruise products we've ever used. Invaluable for the pitch-black cruise cabin in the middle of the night... and it's magnetic to stick to your cabin wall! Cruise Night Light on Amazon .
Cruise Cabin Hanging Organizer: Staterooms are tiny. Add this to your cruise packing list to become the most organized cruiser on your deck. Make sure it's flame retardant, as with this one. Cruise Hanging Organizer on Amazon .
Collapsible Tote Bag : This is perfect for trips to and from the pool and also lugging stuff around port. And it collapses to the size of a wallet for easy packing. Collapsible Travel Tote Bag on Amazon .
Travel Laundry Bag : For those soiled clothes piling up in the cabin corner.
RFID Money Belt : Keep your essentials safe while at port. Your credit cards can be stolen these days from across the room without RFID protection.
Snorkel : If you have extra room and plan to snorkel, this is a great addition to your cruise list. You can pick one up for the price of a rental once you get to port. And you won't have to french kiss a used piece of plastic.
Cruise Staff Thank You Cards : These will turn good service into amazing service and it's heartwarming to do. We've seen cruise staff in tears and never go without these. Cruise Crew Thank You Cards on Amazon .

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

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

5 Day Cruise Packing List: Essential Items for a Memorable Voyage

In planning a 5-day cruise, packing efficiently is key to a memorable voyage. From essential items such as comfortable clothing and toiletries to cruise-specific needs like formal wear and shore excursion gear, this packing list ensures a hassle-free and enjoyable experience. Prepare for any scenario with this comprehensive guide, tailored to cater to various preferences and needs, making your 5-Day Cruise Packing List: Essential Items for a Memorable Voyage.

Key Takeaways:

Essential Items:
Inner layer: Shirts and t-shirts
Warm layer: Fleece pullovers
Waterproof jacket
Closed-toe shoes
Boots for hiking (if needed)
Gloves, hat, scarf

Water-resistant backpack/cross-body bag for onshore

Additional Items:

Ziploc bags for organizing
Motion sickness medication
Sunscreen and lip balm with SPF
Sun protection (hat or visor)
Reusable water bottle
Small amount of cash
Travel-size toiletries
Change of clothes for dinner

Medications and essential toiletries

Packing Tips:

Pack light. Only bring what you need.
Use packing cubes for organization.
Dress in layers to adapt to changing temperatures.
Pack a carry-on with essentials in case of luggage delay.
Securely store cruise documents and passport.

Table of Contents

5 Day Cruise Packing List: Your Essentials for a Memorable Voyage

Ahoy, fellow seafarers! Prepare to embark on an unforgettable 5-day cruise adventure, where you’ll sail across shimmering waters, explore captivating destinations, and create memories that will last a lifetime. To ensure your voyage is as smooth sailing as a dolphin gliding through the waves, I’ve compiled a comprehensive packing list tailored specifically for your 5-day cruise.

Must-Have Essentials:

Sailing Style: Pack a mix of casual and semi-formal attire. Think sundresses, shorts, and t-shirts for daytime exploration, and a dress or button-down shirt for formal nights.

Layering Up: Embrace the unpredictable nature of the open seas and pack layers. A lightweight jacket or cardigan can come in handy for chilly evenings or air-conditioned spaces.

Footwear Fiesta: Bring a variety of shoes to match your diverse activities. Closed-toe shoes for walking tours, sandals for beach days, and sneakers for exploring new cities.

Sun & Sea Essentials: Don’t forget your sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat to shield you from the sun’s embrace. A reusable water bottle will keep you hydrated throughout your adventures.

Tech Savvy Voyager: Pack your phone, camera, and chargers. Consider bringing a portable charger to keep your devices powered up for capturing every moment.

Additional Considerations:

Motion Sickness Relief: If you’re prone to seasickness, pack Dramamine or other remedies to keep your stomach settled.

Seas the Day with Entertainment: Bring a book, a journal, or download podcasts and movies to keep yourself entertained during downtime.

Personal Care Necessities: Pack your toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, and other toiletries. Remember, travel-size containers are your friends!

Seasick Essentials: Seasickness medication, ginger candies, or acupressure wristbands can help alleviate motion sickness symptoms.

Emergency Kit: Pack a small first aid kit with basic supplies like band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers.

Packing Tips for a Smooth Voyage:

Roll, Don’t Fold: Optimize your suitcase space by rolling your clothes instead of folding them. It saves space and reduces wrinkles.

Utilize Packing Cubes: Keep your belongings organized and easily accessible by using packing cubes. Different sizes can accommodate different items, making it a breeze to find what you need.

Less is More: Avoid overpacking by carefully considering each item you bring. Remember, you can always do laundry onboard or purchase essentials at ports of call.

Carry-On Essentials: Pack a carry-on bag with all your essentials, including travel documents, medications, and a change of clothes. This ensures you have easy access to these items, even if your luggage is delayed.

Label Your Luggage: Clearly label your luggage with your name, contact information, and cruise ship cabin number. This will help ensure your bags find their way back to you.

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Electronics and entertainment

You won’t want to miss capturing every special moment during your cruise, so pack your trusty camera to capture all those breathtaking sunsets, majestic landscapes, and unforgettable experiences. Don’t forget your trusty smartphone , a versatile tool for staying connected, navigating unfamiliar destinations, and, of course, snapping those Insta-worthy shots.

Enhance your relaxation and enjoyment onboard with a portable Bluetooth speaker . Picture yourself unwinding on the sundeck, listening to your favorite tunes as you soak up the ocean breeze. It’s the perfect way to set the mood for a tranquil afternoon or a lively evening under the stars.

Pack a camera to capture those unforgettable moments.
Bring your smartphone for communication and entertainment.
Enhance your relaxation with a portable Bluetooth speaker.
What to Pack for a Cruise Vacation
Cruise Packing List: 103 Must-Have Items

Travel documents and essentials

Ahoy there, fellow adventurers! Setting sail on a 5-day cruise is an exhilarating experience, but packing for it can be daunting. Fear not, for I’ve got you covered with a comprehensive packing list that will ensure a smooth and enjoyable voyage. Let’s dive right in!

Pack wisely: Prioritize essential items and avoid overpacking.
Organize efficiently: Use packing cubes or organizers to keep belongings tidy.
Stay comfortable: Pack clothing suitable for various activities and weather conditions.
Protect yourself: Sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are crucial for sun protection.
Be prepared: Motion sickness medication and a first aid kit are handy.
Stay connected: Chargers, adapters, and a camera are essential.

Step 1: Gather your Travel Documents and Essentials

Before we dive into clothes and toiletries, let’s secure the essentials that will grant you smooth passage throughout your journey:

Boarding Documents: Keep your cruise tickets, booking confirmation, and passport or ID handy.

Luggage Tags: Ensure your bags don’t get lost in the shuffle by attaching luggage tags with your name and contact details.

Emergency Contact Numbers: Store emergency contact numbers in your phone and carry a physical list as a backup.

Cash: While most transactions on the ship are cashless, some ports may require cash for souvenirs or local expenses.

Backpack: A small backpack will be your trusty companion during shore excursions, keeping essentials close at hand.

Prescription Medicines: Pack an adequate supply of any prescription medications you rely on, ensuring you have enough for the entire trip.

Step 2: Clothing – Dress to Impress and Explore

When it comes to clothing, think versatile and practical:

Variety is Key: Pack a mix of casual, semi-formal, and formal attire to suit different occasions, from poolside lounging to elegant dinners.

Layering is Your Friend: Pack layers to adapt to changing temperatures and activities. A light jacket or sweater can go a long way.

Footwear Essentials: Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring ports and ship decks. Pack sandals or flip-flops for casual wear and a pair of dress shoes for formal nights.

Sun Protection Gear: Pack a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to shield yourself from the sun’s rays.

Swimwear and Cover-up: Don’t forget your swimsuit and a stylish cover-up for those refreshing dips in the pool or ocean.

Additional Packing Tips for a Smooth Sailing Experience

Now that you’ve got the essentials covered, here are a few extra tips to make your packing even more efficient:

Roll, Don’t Fold: Rolling clothes instead of folding saves space and reduces wrinkles.

Packing Cubes are Magic: Use packing cubes to organize your belongings by category, keeping your suitcase neat and items easily accessible.

Less is More: Avoid overpacking by carefully considering each item you bring. Remember, you can always do laundry on the ship if needed.

Carry-On Essentials: Pack a carry-on bag with travel documents, medications, a change of clothes, and entertainment options for easy access during the journey.

Label Your Luggage: Clearly label your luggage with your name, contact information, and cabin number to avoid mix-ups.

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Additional items for specific activities or needs

Cruises can offer a wide range of activities and experiences, tailored to different preferences and requirements. Make sure to pack specific items cater to your planned activities or needs:

Beach Essentials : If swimming, sunbathing, or engaging in water sports are part of your itinerary, don’t forget your swimsuit, cover-up, beach towel, sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher, sunglasses, and a beach hat.

Excursions and Sightseeing : If you plan to explore destinations during shore excursions, pack comfortable walking shoes, a daypack for carrying essentials, a camera to capture memories, a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated, and a small amount of cash or a credit card for purchases.

Formal Nights : Most cruises have formal nights, where dressing up is encouraged. If you’re unsure of the dress code, check with the cruise line. Pack formal attire, such as a tuxedo or suit for men, and an evening gown, cocktail dress, or pantsuit for women. If you don’t own formal attire, consider renting or purchasing pieces that you can mix and match for different occasions.

Motion Sickness : If you are prone to motion sickness, pack OTC remedies or prescription medication recommended by your doctor. Wear wristbands or patches, if they help alleviate symptoms.

Health and Personal Care : For your daily routine, pack personal care items, including toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, and deodorant. Consider packing seasickness essentials such as ginger candy, tea, or acupressure wristbands. If you wear glasses or contacts, bring an extra pair as a backup.

Electronics and Entertainment : Pack your phone, camera, and chargers. Consider bringing a portable charger to keep your devices powered. You may also want to bring books, magazines, or a tablet preloaded with movies and TV shows for entertainment during downtime.

Documentation and Valuables : Keep your passport, boarding pass, cruise tickets, ID, travel insurance information, and any necessary visas organized and easily accessible. Pack these essential documents in a waterproof pouch. Store cash and valuables in the cabin’s safe.

Pack items specific to activities you plan to engage in, such as swimwear, sunscreen, and a daypack for excursions.

Check the dress code for formal nights and pack accordingly.

If prone to motion sickness, pack OTC remedies, wristbands, or patches.

Pack personal care items, prescription medications, and an extra pair of glasses or contacts.

Bring electronics, chargers, and entertainment options for downtime.

Keep essential documents organized and store valuables in the cabin’s safe.

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

The Cruise Packing List: 85 Items to Bring – Printable

Q1: What are some essential clothing items I need to pack for a 5-day cruise?

A1: For clothing, you should pack a variety of casual and formal attire, considering the expected weather and dress codes. Ensure you have comfortable shoes for walking and exploring during shore excursions. Also, pack swimsuits for pool relaxation and beach activities.

Q2: What essential documents and items should I bring for my cruise?

A2: Essential documents include your passport, cruise tickets, identification, and emergency contact information. Additionally, pack prescription medicines, a small amount of cash, and a backpack for carrying essentials into port. Make copies of important documents and keep them separate from the originals.

Q3: How can I efficiently organize my belongings for a 5-day cruise?

A3: To stay organized, consider using packing cubes to categorize items like clothing, toiletries, and electronics. Create a customizable packing list based on your specific needs and preferences. Ziploc bags can also be used to keep small items dry and protected.

Q4: What toiletries and personal care items should I pack for a 5-day cruise?

A4: Pack a sufficient supply of personal care items, including toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, and deodorant. Sunscreen, lip balm with SPF, and after-sun lotion are essential for sun protection. Remember to bring a small first-aid kit, motion sickness medication, and a reusable water bottle.

Q5: What additional items can enhance my 5-day cruise experience?

A5: Consider packing items such as a portable Bluetooth speaker for music enjoyment, binoculars for wildlife viewing, and a universal travel adapter if traveling internationally. A small portable charger will keep your electronic devices powered up throughout the cruise. Extra Ziploc bags, an outlet extender, and laundry detergent might also come in handy.

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Printable Cruise Packing List (75 Best Things to Pack)

By: Author Kim Tate

Posted on Published: April 14, 2022

cruise packing list overlayed over cruise ocean image with text overlay

Cruise packing can be daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. By following this complete cruise packing list, you’ll be able to pack like a pro and avoid any last-minute headaches.

I’ve taken multiple cruises and feel this packing list combines the basic travel needs along with some cruise essentials. Whether you are planning a short getaway or a long cruise, these items will help you stay organized and enjoy your time on and off the ship.

printable cruise packing list overlay over cruise ship deck with sunset over the ocean horizon

In this article:

What to Pack for Your Cruise

A cruise is a wonderful way to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Whether you are traveling for leisure or to take in the sights and sounds of a new destination, there are a few things you will need to pack for your trip.

This is primarily a cruise packing list for a warm-weather cruise, i.e. a Caribbean cruise. However, it can also work for a Mediterranean cruise. If you’re headed to cooler weather, I recommend you check out my printable Alaska cruise packing list . And if you’re heading out for a cruise with Mickey Mouse, check out my Disney Cruise packing list !

Before we get to the list of what to put in your suitcase, let’s take a minute to talk about how to pack for a cruise.

This post contains affiliate links, I may earn a commission if you make a purchase from my links.

What Suitcase to Bring on a Cruise

This will be a tricky subject and will be completely up to you as to how much you feel you need to pack for your cruise. Some cruisers will be happy packing minimally and can rely on a carry-on. Others will want to plan for outfit changes throughout the day and might need a full-size suitcase for a week or longer cruise.

Whichever suitcase you decide to use, here are some cruise packing tips:

It’s convenient to slide suitcases under your bed in your cabin . Most beds have a clearance of about 12″-14″, and you can do a quick google search to determine if you can find the exact bed clearance for your ship. Any suitcase you choose should be able to slide under the bed to be stowed away.

You’re often asked to drop off larger luggage at the pier before boarding the ship and your suitcases will be dropped off outside your cabin on the day of embarkation. If you board early in the day, you could be without your luggage for a while, so you’ll need a carry-on type personal item to keep any needed items or valuables with you.

If you do pack in a carry-on suitcase , you can often bring your luggage on and off-board yourself, which can save you time and keep you from waiting for luggage delivery. But you should be willing to navigate stairs with your bag in case the elevators are backed up.

Packing cubes are essential for cruises in my opinion. They make unpacking easy and will help you feel more organized in the room. Packing cubes (I like these ones ) work well for pulling out of your suitcase and putting in your closet shelves or drawers during the cruise. Then your suitcase can be stowed away and left alone until you’re ready to re-pack to disembark.

woman with suitcases walking on cruise desk

Clothing & Accessories to Pack for a Cruise

One of the biggest parts of packing for a cruise is figuring out what you’re going to wear on the cruise. You’ll need to plan for what you’re wearing for shore excursions as well as if you want to change for dinner later in the day.

Shirts – check the weather and consider what shirts/tops you want for the type of cruise you’re on. You might be happy just packing short sleeve shirts and then relying on a cardigan and/or jacket for cooler temps. I typically plan for one shirt for each day keeping in mind what outfits I’ll wear to match each day’s activities. I love lightweight tees like these from prAna , Columbia , and Target .

Shorts – keep in mind you might be able to wear your shorts/bottoms more than one time. For a one-week cruise, you might want to pack 2-3 pairs of shorts, or more if you’re prone to sweat or planning sandy or outdoorsy activities. As a Gen X woman who likes shorts with a bit of length but not too much length, Old Navy is my go-to place for shorts. And Paul loves these Vans shorts.

Pants – even if you’re heading to a warm-weather destination, it’s always a good idea to pack a pair of pants. The deck can be cool in the early mornings or evenings at sea and you might want to enjoy a stroll outdoors one early morning or evening. Also, keep in mind that I think pants are essential for traveling comfortably on a plane . I’m really loving these Eddie Bauer cropped travel joggers lately!

woman wearing white shirt and black joggers on cruise ship

Dresses – for women, it’s fun to wear dresses on a cruise. They’re easy to dress up for dinner or dress down for a simple lounge day on the ship or off on a shore excursion. Maxi dresses are one of my go-to favorites, just keep in mind that long cotton-style dresses like maxi dresses will take up a lot of room in your luggage. Shorter travel dresses can work well and typically pack well, too.

Cardigan / Wrap – as I mentioned before, walking on the outside decks of the cruise ship can be chilly at times. Pairing your cute dinner outfits with a nice cardigan or wrap can help you stay warm during those sunset strolls before or after dinner. It can also be handy if the dining room or theater is cool.

woman wearing dress and cardigan on cruise ship stairway

Formal / Theme Night – many of the main chain cruise lines have done away with formal night dinners. However, a few, like Cunard, do theme meal nights. Most cruise lines also have themed parties, like Glow Night for NCL and Pirates Night on Disney Cruise Line. If you’re headed on a Disney Cruise, check out these 10 great Disney Cruise outfit ideas I put together!

Undergarments & Socks – keep in mind what types of undergarments work best for your outfits and/or activities. And also keep in mind how many socks you need to match with what shoes you’re packing.

Pajamas – of course, you’ll want to pack your coziest PJs, but also keep in mind luggage space and perhaps leave the fleece jammies at home.

Swimsuit & Cover-Up – if you plan to hit the water daily, you may want to pack at least two swimsuits so you always have a dry one. There’s nothing quite like putting on a wet swimsuit — ick!

Accessories – keep in mind each of your outfits and be sure to pack whatever accessories you plan to wear with them. This may include belts, jewelry, scarves, or ties.

Exercise Outfits – cruise ships often have nice fitness centers with great views of the open ocean. If you think you might like to put in a workout or two while cruising, be sure to pack whatever workout gear you’ll need.

Loungewear – there’s nothing I like more than starting my morning in bed with a cup of coffee while reading on my iPad. On a cruise, I don’t want to have to walk to the buffet for coffee in my PJs, and also don’t want to fully dress in my outfit for the day. That’s where a loungewear set can come in handy. Grab a pair of soft pants and a zipper hoodie and you can make a dash for coffee without fully dressing for the day. This also works well for those days at sea when you just want to hang out and lounge around.

Jacket / Rain Coat – this might depend on what weather you’re facing and your ports of call. But, I think it’s always a good plan to have a jacket when you head out on a cruise. Weather can change. Our recent cruise left NYC with windy rain and we returned to more rain. I was glad I had packed my heavier Free Country Jacket , and during the cooler at sea days I wore my new favorite Aviation Nation hoodie as a light jacket.

Sun Hat / Ball Cap – if you’re a hat person, or plan to spend some time in the sun, packing a hat is a great idea. They help keep you healthy by keeping harmful sun rays off your face. And, they can actually help you stay cooler while hanging at the beach! You might want to be sure to pack one with a cinching strap as cruises and beaches can get windy and I saw a lot of flying ball caps and hats on my recent trip. I packed this Solar Escape hat . It packs flat and can be strapped to stay on my head in windy weather.

Laundry Bag – you’ll want to keep your dirty laundry separated from your clean clothes and a laundry bag works well for that. Some cruisers love these pop-up laundry hampers but I personally prefer a simple plastic store bag hooked over a hanger clip.

Best Shoes for a Cruise

While I try to always pack minimally in regard to shoes on a trip, a cruise has a few unique requirements. You need to be ready to walk around towns, ready for water sports, and also ready to dress up nice for dinner if you choose. Here are the type of shoes I recommend you pack for a cruise.

woman on cruise ship desk in pink dress with sunset on the ocean horizon

Walking / Tennis Shoes – you know your style best, so if you’re planning on shore excursions with lots of walking involved, plan to pack a great pair of walking shoes. I personally hate having to wear tie shoes when traveling unless I’m doing some extensive walking or hiking and lately I’ve been loving these Vionic Pismo Sneakers , they’re my third pair of Vionic shoes I’ve purchased in the past year.

Keep in mind that if you’re doing some more adventurous shore excursion activities you might need to pack a more supportive shoe or hiking boot.

Dress Shoes (Slip Ons) – if you’re packing dresses and want to dress up for your cruise, you’ll probably want a cute pair of shoes to wear. I’m personally not a fan of heels, and I think they’re even less suitable for a cruise where you’re on a moving ship with possibly wet decks. A cute sandal or slip-on can be great for cruising, I like my Vionic Malibu Slip Ons and Sanuk Slings .

Flip Flops / Slides – if you have som e beach stops or plan to hang out at the pool, you’ll want a pair of flip-flops or slides.

Water Shoes – depending on what shore excursions you’re planning, you might want a pair of water shoes or water sandals. These can help when walking in water with a lot of coral or if you’re planning some boat adventures. They could be a slip-on pair or a more substantial shoe like Keen sandals .

What Toiletries to Bring on a Cruise

My list of toiletries is almost as long as my list of clothes to pack! There are the basics but also a few other items you should be sure to bring on a cruise.

Let’s look at the basics:

Toothbrush & Toothpaste
Shampoo & Conditioner (on my recent NCL cruise they didn’t provide conditioner)
Body Lotion (again this wasn’t provided on our recent NCL cruise)
Brush / Comb
Hairstyling Equipment (keep in mind any restrictions your cruise line has for these items)
Facial Care (cleanser, lotion, scrub)
Shaving Supplies
Contacts / Eyeglasses
Nail Clippers & File
Medications
Feminine Hygiene
Contraceptives

And a few other items you may want to include:

Moleskin – this is handy if you happen to get a blister during your walking or if you’re bringing a new pair of shoes on the trip and aren’t sure how they’ll work for your feet.

Aloe Vera – I forgot to pack aloe on a recent trip and my daughter got sunburnt and we ended up paying $18 for a small bottle of aloe vera from the cruise ship store.

Stain / Wrinkle Remover – these are two items that are always handy if you want to look your best. I carry a Tide Pen and Downy Wrinkle Releaser in my toiletry bag for all trips.

PooPourri – when you’re sharing a tiny bathroom in a tiny cruise cabin adding Poo-Pourri to your toiletry bag might be useful.

Cruise Port Day Bag Items

While you can get yourself set up for everything you’ll need on the cruise ship, what about when you go off the ship? Here are some of the go-to items I think you should pack in your cruise day bag for shore excursions.

Day Bag / Beach Bag – you might actually need both of these depending on what stops you’ll be making and what activities you’re doing. If you’re going on a tour that isn’t to the beach, I like using my locking sling bag for traveling. If you’re heading to the beach, plan to pack a large beach tote bag .

If you’re wanting some peace of mind leaving items at beach chairs while enjoying the water, consider one of these PacSafe bags for some added security.

Waterproof Camera – if you’re planning to play in the water or do any watersports like snorkeling, you’ll want to pack a waterproof camera for your trip. GoPros are pretty useful and can capture some great pics.

girl snorkeling in caribbean gopro photo

Phone Pouch – if you don’t care as much about getting action shots in the water and just want a handy way to keep your cell phones with you while in the water you might bring one of these phone pouches .

Sunscreen & Bug Spray – sunscreen is one of the biggest things you need to pack on your cruise. Keep in mind that if you’re flying carry-on only, a 3.4 oz size sunscreen might not be enough for a long cruise in the sun. You might also want to check if bugs like mosquitos are an issue at any of your cruise stops during the season you’re traveling.

Sunglasses – I always wear sunglasses so it’s a must-pack item for me. But some cruisers who aren’t used to wearing sunglasses often might overlook adding these must-have items to their cruise checklist. And make sure you don’t leave them in the cruise cabin when you go ashore.

mom and daughter wearing sunglasses at beach

Goggles / Snorkel – if you’re looking to do some swimming or snorkeling you might want to pack your own gear instead of renting. These snorkel masks are really popular!

Jacket / Umbrella – you may want to bring a jacket if it’s windy or cool. And umbrellas can be used for creating shade on a hot sunny day in addition to being used in the rain.

Reuseable Water Bottle – bottled water isn’t included on most cruises except for in some premium beverage packages. But, you can use cups and the water dispenser in the buffet to refill your own water bottles. You’ll want to bring water when you go off the ship.

Cash / Cards / ID – you’ll want a handy way to keep your cruise card, credit cards, and an ID (driver’s license) for when you go off the ship. We often have taken our passports with us but many prefer to leave their passports on the ship. However, many cruise terminals require you to show an ID to enter the terminal for security reasons so you’ll want some kind of ID for cruisers age 18+.

Hand Wipes / Sanitizer – you’ll probably want to pack both of these. Wipes (baby wipes or sanitizing wipes) help you wipe up messes and hand sanitizer is great to use before eating or after being in a public space.

Snacks / Gum – always a good idea to have a snack or two on hand when you’re headed off the ship. And gum always comes in handy if you need a breath refresher.

Cruise Essentials for Your Cruise Packing Checklist

Finally, there are a few unique cruise essentials you’ll want to pack. These are items that will help keep your cabin in order and help you enjoy your trip a little more.

Lanyard / Clutch – while on the ship you’ll mostly need your cruise key card and maybe your phone (for photos and if you pay for wifi). If you won’t have pockets all the time, you might want a cruise lanyard for your keycard and/or a clutch for holding a few other essentials you may want like lipstick or lip balm and your phone.

Note – Princess Cruises uses a special medallion, not cards, for their cruise guests.

Over-the-Door Shoe Organizer – this is one of the tried and true items we’ve used on all of our cruises. It is a great way to organize all those little items that might pile up on counters. It’s especially useful when you’re cruising as a family. We have a clear plastic one , but mesh ones can be easier to pack. Keep in mind you’ll hang this with magnetic hooks, most cruise lines forbid using over-the-door hooks.

Multiport Charger – plug outlets can be limited so if you have multiple devices that will need charging, a multiple USB ports charger can be extremely useful. Keep in mind that power strips and surge protectors aren’t allowed.

usb ports charger on cruise ship plug outlet

Binoculars – these might not be something you care about packing, but if you like looking at other ships you see at sea or want to see some sea life up close, pack a pair of compact binoculars .

Magnetic Hooks – we use these for hanging the shoe organizer on our cabin wall, but magnetic hooks also work well for using on your cabin bathroom door for extra bags or items.

magnetic hooks are useful for cruise ship walls

Motion Sickness Meds – if this is your first cruise or if you know you’re prone to motion sickness, don’t forget to pack these. I do suffer from motion sickness and I bring:

Dramamine / Bonine
Ginger Tablets & Candy
Nausea Essential Oil Inhaler
Scolpamine Patches (prescription from MD)

motion sickness medicine bag to pack for cruise ship

Insulated Coffee Cup – this is certainly an extra item to pack since it takes up a little space. But, if you really enjoy coffee in your cabin or on your balcony, an insulated coffee mug can be an essential item for cruising. You could also use an insulated water bottle for double duty, but some don’t like to have coffee flavors in their water bottles.

Mini First Aid Kit – cruises will have a medical center onboard, but a small first aid kit can be useful. I like to have some bandaids, antibiotic ointment, and hydrocortisone. You might also want to add some chewable Pepto Bismol tablets , too.

White Board / Post-It Notes – this can be useful for leaving messages for your cabin attendant or for fellow travelers that might be meeting up with you. It’s very useful for cruising with teens .

Cabin Door Decor – this is something we don’t personally do, but I know many cruisers love to decorate their cruise ship doors. You can even order custom magnets from Etsy.

Clothespins / Towel Clips – if you plan to spend a lot of time lounging at the pool or beach you might want to pack some towel clips . You can also pack towel bands if you want to use less space. And a few clothespins can come in handy for hanging swimsuits in the shower although we’ve never needed them.

Electronics / Chargers – be sure to pack any electronics you’ll want on the cruise and the chargers to go with them. Do you need your laptop? An iPad or Kindle can be a great item to pack on a cruise if you like to read when you relax or watch some saved movies or shows.

Boarding Documents – you can save these electronically, but it’s also a good idea to have them printed to keep things easy for checking in at the port.

Masks / Health Tests / Vaccine Records – currently many cruise lines are requiring some additional health requirements because of the pandemic. Make sure you check the rules for your specific cruise line for what is required and bring all items you may need. We used the iHealth covid tests with monitoring for our own recent trip.

And I think that’s it! I’ve left some extra blank spaces on my cruise packing list printable so you can add some additional items that you want to remember to bring.

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A printable cruise packing list can help make the process of packing for a cruise much easier. Make sure to check with your individual travel company for additional specific recommendations. Bon voyage!

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The Ultimate Cruise Packing List

How to pack for your next adventure at sea.

Packing Checklist

Bags and Accessories

Frequently asked questions.

Why Trust T + L

Travel + Leisure / Kevin Liang

Determining what to pack for a cruise can be a daunting task, particularly if you've never cruised before. But don't worry, it's easier than you might think.

As a travel writer specializing in cruising, I spend a healthy amount of time at sea each year — last year, a total of three months — split between expedition ships, mega ships, and river ships. And no matter where I'm traveling, whether that's Antarctica , the Galápagos , Europe, or the Caribbean, I've got packing for a cruise down to a science.

In my experience, you need to pack far less than you might expect. When it comes to clothing, plan on wearing the same outfit multiple times (or at least mixing and matching various pieces, à la capsule wardrobe ). When it comes to shoes, pick your most versatile pairs. And as for everything else? Stick to the basics.

While different itineraries call for different gear — always default to your cruise line's guidance for specific items you might need — I've put together a solid starting point for your cruise packing list. I've also tapped Acendas Travel Director of Vacations JoAnne Weeks, who has sailed on more than 125 cruises, and Lauren Vaitkus, Hotel Director of Celebrity Equinox , for their expert insights.

Packing Checklist for a Cruise

No matter the itinerary, cruise outfits can be separated into two categories: daywear and eveningwear.

By day, most ships have relaxed dress codes, which typically means donning swimsuits and cover-ups or perhaps a T-shirt and shorts — at least on a warm-weather itinerary. Cold-weather sailings, whether a circumnavigation of Iceland or a fall foliage cruise in New England, will likely have you donning sweaters and jeans .

By night, many cruises, like a cruise to the multi-cultural Turkey , will adopt a dressier atmosphere, which can range from resort casual to formal. Take a look at your cruise documents to find out about special dress codes — including themed events — and tailor your packing list accordingly. Keep an eye out for requirements like collared shirts and pants for men.

Clothing for Women

Best casual daywear, prettygarden women's 2 piece summer beach outfit.

I recently wore this fun (and affordable!) PrettyGarden set from Amazon on a Bahamas cruise, and it was the perfect daytime outfit that doubled as a swimsuit cover-up. What I love about sets like this is that you can wear the pieces together or separately — pair the top with jeans for a casual outfit in the evening, or wear the shorts with a plain white tee for another daytime look. This set is particularly great because the shorts are lined, so you don't have to worry about sheerness. The silky material is delightfully lightweight for summer temperatures, though you should be warned that it can shrink in the dryer.

Best Swimsuit

Bleu by rod beattie women's molded-cup one-piece swimsuit.

Always bring a swimsuit, no matter where you're sailing! I've long been a fan of Bleu by Rod Beattie swimsuits, as I find they provide a little extra support like shapewear without feeling too restrictive. And they're quite durable — my swimsuits have held up well all around the world, from the clear blue Caribbean Sea to the 28-degree, iceberg-laden Southern Ocean in Antarctica. Choose from colorful patterned one-pieces like this model to chic bikinis in solid hues. "If it's a warm-weather itinerary I suggest you bring more than one bathing suit and cover-up so you always have a dry one," advises Weeks.

Best Evening Dress

Unbound merino travel dress.

Unless your cruise asks you to don genuine formalwear for dinner, a simple LBD (little black dress) is the way to go for an evening look. This midi-length, sleeveless number by Unbound Merino is made from merino wool, which is one of the best travel materials out there — it's moisture-wicking and has a natural resistance to odors. Plus, it's wrinkle-free ! To get multiple wears out of this dress on your cruise, pair it with different accessories, whether that's jewelry, cardigans, or footwear.

Best Slacks

Banana republic crop flare everywhere ponte pant.

Because it can often be chilly indoors — the AC is usually blasting — you might prefer pants to dresses at night. If so, comfortable dress pants go a long way on a cruise. This pair from Banana Republic is made out of stretchy ponte, but it has pintuck detailing you might find on a pair of slacks, dressing them up a bit. Ponte is a great material for travel, as it packs well and is resistant to wrinkles.

Best Blouse

Ravella milano silk blouse.

A silk blouse may be an investment piece, but it's a sure-fire way to look effortlessly chic in the evening on a cruise — pair it with slacks for a dressier look or jeans for a more casual one. This blouse by Ravella comes in 10 standard colors plus two seasonal ones, and it's accented with gold buttons for a little dazzle. But most importantly, this silk is washable (which is key because ships don't usually have dry cleaning capabilities).

Best Sweater

Everlane the cozy-rib cardigan.

As I mentioned, ships can be quite cold inside, so you should always bring a warm layer to wear over your dinner apparel. Or if you're on a cold-weather cruise, you might be able to wear your sweater by day, too. This cardigan from Everlane has an elegant V-neck, ribbing for texture, and a cropped length that would work particularly well with dresses. It comes in five colors — I'm always partial to a good black cardigan for the evening, but the bone option is quite lovely for outfits with lighter palettes.

Clothing for Men

Best t-shirt, toad & co men's primo short sleeve henley.

On most cruise ships, T-shirts are perfectly acceptable daytime wear, whether you're bar hopping inside or relaxing on the pool deck. To move away from a basic tee, opt for a short-sleeve henley, which provides a little extra oomph with its buttons without the formality of a collar. You can even wear it under a jacket for a casual evening outfit. This shirt from Toad&Co is made of moisture-wicking organic cotton and is pre-washed for lived-in softness.

Best Shorts

Bonobos the chino short 2.0.

Ranking number one on our list of the best men's shorts , these chinos are one of Bonobos' signature items. (If you're on a cold-weather cruise, consider the pants version , which is identical in everything but length.) They're made out of extra-comfy four-way stretch fabric, have a curved waistband, and come in standard, slim, and athletic fits to suit various body types. Since they come in more than a dozen colors, it's easy to pick a few of your favorites to bring onboard your cruise.

Best Swim Trunks

Vuori banks short.

T+L testers named the Vuori Banks Short the best swimsuit for men , and it's not hard to see why. These are multi-purpose shorts: they can be worn for working out, lounging, and swimming. In other words, they're the perfect pair for a cruise, since you can wear them for just about all activities onboard (other than dinner if pants are required). They're quick-drying, and they also have two zippered pockets for essentials like your key card.

Best Short-sleeve Button-down

Rsvlts bamboo short sleeve shirt.

One of my husband's favorite brands, RSVLTS (The Roosevelts) is known for its many, many pop culture–related patterns, from Star Wars to Shrek. If that's not your jam, there are non-themed shirts, too, from solids to more traditional patterns like blue-and-white stripes. What makes RSVLTS shirts stand out in this category is their resistance to wrinkles, so there's no need to iron or steam them before dinner — which means more time at the pool.

DUER Weightless Poplin AC Pants

If you plan on having one nice dinner at a specialty restaurant on your cruise, pants are pretty much a non-negotiable. (Shorts aren't typically permitted at upscale restaurants, though tailored shorts might be an exception, depending on the cruise line.) But you don't necessarily need to wear a suit or even true slacks. Duer's Weightless Poplin AC Pants, for instance, have a lovely tapered fit, but they're made of an ultra-lightweight, breathable material that has stretch for extra comfort.

Best Jacket

Twillory performance blazer.

For a more formal evening, a jacket might be required of men. If you haven't yet surmised, I'm a big fan of wrinkle-resistant clothing for travel — and that's why I'm recommending the Twillory Performance Blazer. Yes, it's practically impervious to pesky wrinkles, but what's more, it's stretchy, it comes in more than a dozen colors (and even patterns like houndstooth), and, best of all, it's machine washable. There are matching pants if you'd like to put together a suit, too.

Shoes take up far too much room in a suitcase, so you're best off choosing just a few versatile options that can work for various activities (and outfits). Generally speaking, there are three essential shoes to pack: waterproof sandals for the pool deck or the beach, sneakers for active excursions or onboard activities like rock climbing, and a dressier shoe like heels or loafers for the evening.

Shoes for Women

Best sandals, birkenstock arizona essentials eva sandals.

Instead of flip-flops, these Birkenstock sandals are my go-to on cruises. (And, quite frankly, all summer long at home, too). For one thing, I find them a bit more supportive, thanks to the EVA footbed and thick, adjustable straps. For another, they're water-resistant, so you can easily wear them on a pool deck or at the beach. And unlike their traditional counterparts with the cork footbed, these sandals don't give me blisters in the arch of my foot.

Best Sneakers

Kizik women's wasatch slip-on sneaker.

I've been a Kizik convert for a few years now, primarily due to the company's signature hands-free technology in the heel of each of its shoes — after you've tied the laces during your first wear, you can just slip the shoes on with ease. The Wasatch model is a particular favorite of mine because it has a more rugged sole for easy hikes and a water-resistant exterior. It's always smart to bring a pair of closed-toe shoes on a cruise ship, as some activities might require them.

Best Dress Shoes

Margaux the city sandal.

You can never go wrong with a nude heel on a cruise — it goes with just about every outfit. Margaux's The City Sandal has an elegant, strappy look, but the shoes are all about comfort. The 2.5-inch block heel is easy to walk in, while 5 millimeters of foam padding cushions the bottom of your feet. Want a higher heel? Try The Platform Sandal , which has a 3-inch block heel mitigated by a 1-inch platform at the ball of the foot. I own these as my go-to dressy heels, and I've worn them all night long at a wedding.

Shoes for Men

Crocs classic ii flip flop.

I'm all about Crocs for their all-day comfort — boy, do I love that Croslite foam! — but I understand that the iconic clog might not be for everyone. Fortunately, Crocs makes many models of shoes, including these classic flip-flops. They're a bit sturdier and more supportive than other flip-flops, and they're water-resistant (and therefore very quick drying). Be sure to size down in these shoes, as they tend to run a full size large.

Hoka One One Men's Clifton 8

Hoka sneakers are all the rage these days, but they're far more than just trendy. They're incredibly comfortable — so much so that T+L testers deemed them the best men's travel shoes . The curved design adds a little bounce in your step, making walking and running easier on your body. And that's not to mention the shock-absorbing EVA midsoles or the breathable mesh uppers that keep your feet cool. So, all in all, this is an excellent sneaker choice for men putting in some serious miles on their cruise, whether that's around the jogging track or off the ship on excursions.

Cole Haan Original Grand Wingtip Derby

These Cole Haan shoes have been ranked T+L 's most comfortable men's dress shoes , so there's no need to worry about pinched toes or a lack of arch support. If you look at the top part of the shoe, they appear to be classic leather oxfords. But the soles have a distinct sneaker-like look to them. Sure, this does make the shoes a bit more casual, but it also makes them more comfortable, like sneakers.

I love pockets as much as the next person, but you'll probably want to bring a bag or two to tote your essentials around the ship, from sunscreen to lipstick. Plus, sunglasses and hats are a must for sun protection, both in warm-weather and cold-weather destinations.

Speaking of bags, it's worth mentioning your suitcases. If you plan on checking a bag, remember that you'll need to store that checked bag somewhere in your cabin — usually there's under-bed storage for large suitcases. If possible, I'd recommend something collapsible like a wheeled duffel that can be stored in tighter spaces. I once ran into an issue where my checked bag was too large to fit under the bed!

And here's an insider tip: during embarkation, you'll likely have an option to have your bags delivered to your cabin by porters. If you do so, it might be hours until you receive them, so always bring a carry-on bag or a backpack with essentials, including a swimsuit so you can get right out on the pool deck.

Fjällräven Kånken Totepack

I'm obsessed with this Fjällräven bag, and I take it just about everywhere with me — especially on cruises. I'm typically not a fan of totes, as I find the straps often slip off my shoulders, but this bag has tote-style handles for grabbing-and-going, a crossbody strap, and backpack straps. This makes it perfect for a quick run from your cabin up to the pool deck or out on an excursion. I also love that the top is zippered, so nothing will accidentally fall out, as well as the water-resistant, quick-drying material.

Best Backpack

Isle gateway waterproof backpack.

If you want a true backpack to haul gear around a ship (or off it on a water-based excursion), this 25-liter waterproof backpack by Isle is the way to go. The main compartment has an IP67 waterproof rating, which means it can stay underwater at a depth of 1 meter (about 3 feet) for up to 30 minutes. (The external pocket, however, is only water-resistant, so users beware!) Whereas most waterproof bags have a somewhat clunky roll-top, this bag is zippered for easy use.

HOBO Fern Crossbody

These days, I'm all about pockets, but I always bring a crossbody purse with me on cruises. Why? Because I need an easy place to stash my key card. This Hobo bag is one of my favorites, as it's large enough to carry essentials like sunglasses and my phone, but small enough that it's not much of a hindrance. There's a convenient slip pocket in the back for holding your phone (or that key card), while the main compartment has a double zipper.

Best Sunglasses for Women

I-sea all aboard polarized sunglasses.

I typically bring two pairs of sunglasses with me on a cruise: my prescription pair, which I always wear with a strap, and a cheap pair that I don't necessarily mind losing. I've personally witnessed sunglasses going overboard on multiple occasions (typically in Zodiacs on expedition cruises), so I'm a little cautious. These fashion-forward I-Sea sunglasses are the best budget women's sunglasses as rated by T+L testers — they received high marks for being lightweight and having polarized lenses.

Best Sunglasses for Men

Knockaround premiums sport sunglasses.

On our list of the best men's sunglasses , this pair by Knockaround received the superlative of "best budget." Not only are they pretty stylish (and they have polarized lenses to boot), but they're also quite durable — we didn't notice any signs of wear after six months of testing. Not bad for an affordable pair of sunglasses! They come in a series of fun colors, like an aquamarine-fuschia combo, as well as classic black.

Best Hat for Women

Solbari wide cotton linen hat.

A sun hat can provide you crucial sun protection when you're lounging on deck. The Solbari Linen Hat — our top pick for packable sun hats — has a classic sun hat silhouette, and it's made from a breathable cotton-linen blend with a UPF 50+ rating. Two features we love are the adjustable toggle to fit the hat perfectly to your head and the detachable chin strap. It can be quite windy at sea, and you don't want your hat blowing overboard.

Best Hat for Men

Einskey unisex sun hat.

Sure, you can wear a baseball cap on a cruise ship, but that leaves the top of your ears and the back of your neck particularly vulnerable to the sun's harmful rays. A floppy sun hat gets rid of those problems. This one by Einskey is an affordable option on Amazon. It's a winner with its waterproof, sweat-wicking material, plus its mesh vents for additional cooling power. And it also has a drawstring for adjustability and a chin strap to help keep the hat in place.

You shouldn't have to bring too much gear on a cruise — unless you're on an expedition cruise that requires specialized gear — but general travel essentials like an adapter, a reusable water bottle, and a stain remover pen are always a good idea to take with you.

You should also bring anything you might need for health and wellness, such as a small first-aid kit, over-the-counter medications, and motion sickness remedies. Ships will always have medical professionals onboard, but you may be charged to visit them, so it's best to be prepared on your own.

Best Motion Sickness Remedy

Sea-band comforting acupressure bands.

If you're prone to motion sickness — and therefore seasickness — you should consult a doctor about your medication options before your cruise. But for a non-medication option, try these acupressure bracelets by Sea-Band. I'm fortunately not afflicted by seasickness, but I always carry these Sea-Bands with me just in case. I've worn them as a preventative measure on the infamous Drake Passage, as well as through a fierce storm on the Denmark Strait between Greenland and Iceland — and I felt perfectly fine.

Best Binoculars

Nocs provision standard issue 8x25 waterproof binoculars.

Because I'm a birder, I never cruise without binoculars, and I actually own multiple pairs for various types of trips. For a reasonably-priced pair of binoculars that are good for general viewing (and for kids), I recommend this compact Nocs model. They're waterproof, they have excellent grip on their impact-absorbing housing, and they come in lots of fun colors. Even if you're not a birder, you might find these handy for looking at ships off in the distance when you're at sea.

Best Reusable Water Bottle

Stojo collapsible water bottle.

Single-use plastics are the enemy of the sea, but many big ships still carry thousands of them onboard for guests' consumption. Skip those in favor of a reusable water bottle — "[m]ost ships now offer water filling stations," says Weeks. This Stojo Bottle is collapsible, so it saves plenty of space in your bag, but when expanded, it holds up to 20 ounces. I also love that it's bottom-heavy, which means it's more likely to stay upright in rough seas.

Best Sunscreen

Blue lizard sensitive mineral sunscreen spf 50+ 3 oz.

Named to T+L 's list of the best reef-safe sunscreens , Blue Lizard’s mineral sunscreen is my pick because it's fragrance-free, which is beneficial for sensitive skin. While it has a watery consistency that feels hydrating on the skin, it does leave a white cast, which might not be ideal for some users. Something that's rather fun with this sunscreen is its packaging — the cap turns blue in the presence of harmful UV rays, so you know when it's time to reapply.

Best Travel Adapter

Epicka universal travel adapter.

"For those traveling from outside of North America, an international adapter is a must," says Vaitkus. "All of our ships have U.S. outlets, and some have European ones, too, but an international adapter will come in handy for any charging needs as you explore ports." The Epicka Universal Travel Adapter, which is on our list of the best travel adapters and converters , doubles as a charging hub, as it has four USB ports, one USB-C port, and an AC socket — you can charge all of your devices at once.

Best Hanging Organizer

Bagsmart hanging compression packing cubes.

While newer ships are pretty good about incorporating as much storage in the cabins as possible, some older ships lack storage options. "Foldable hanging storage is a great addition to your packing list, as it can be hung in your wardrobe to help keep your stateroom clutter-free," says Vaitkus. This system by Bagsmart includes a 14-pocket hanging organizer that folds shut and compresses with straps, as well as standard compression packing cubes, a laundry bag, and a shoe bag.

How many outfits should I pack for a cruise?

A good rule to follow when planning your cruise wardrobe is one daytime outfit and one nighttime outfit per day. But there's a caveat: you can — and should — plan on re-wearing multiple outfits to save room in your suitcase. Think about mix-and-matching pieces when you can, or changing things up with accessories.

What should I avoid packing for a cruise?

Don't waste space in your suitcase by packing beach towels. Your ship will have plenty of towels for use both onboard on the pool deck and off the ship on excursions. But don't lose these towels! On larger ships, you'll scan your key card to "rent" these towels — if you don't return them, you'll be charged as if you've taken them home or lost them. Along the same lines, if you've booked a suite or are sailing on a luxury ship, you'll probably have a bathrobe in your cabin.

Is there a gift shop onboard if I've forgotten anything?

Most cruise ships either offer a laundry service or have DIY laundry rooms for guests. While a laundry service may not be cheap, it does help you pack much lighter. You can also save money by washing your laundry in your cabin. "I always bring a Tide pen and a travel-size packet of Tide , so I can wash out anything I need," says Weeks.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

For this story, T+L contributor Stefanie Waldek dug into her own experience packing for cruises. As a travel writer, she spends several months at sea each year, visiting destinations such as Antarctica (her favorite place), the Caribbean, the Mediterranean, Europe's many rivers, and the Galápagos. She's sailed on the world's largest cruise ship for a weekend trip to the Bahamas and a 150-passenger expedition ship on a three-week Atlantic crossing from South America to Africa. As such, she's packed for all sorts of cruises! Stefanie also received expert advice from JoAnne Weeks , Acendas Travel Director of Vacations, and Lauren Vaitkus , Hotel Director of Celebrity Equinox .

Related: The Ultimate Beach Vacation Packing List

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Printable Cruise Packing List + What to Pack for a Cruise

This printable cruise packing list will help you make sure you're ready to set sail! This list covers everything from the essentials to things you probably never considered before. Now you can relax knowing you'll have everything you need while you're out at sea. #cruisetips #cruisepackinglist #cruisepackingchecklistfreeprintable #caribbeancruisepackingchecklist #mexicocruisepackinglist via @somewhatsimple

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

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

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

What to Pack For A Cruise

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

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

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

Things to Pack for a Cruise

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

1. Ziploc Bags

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

2. Backpack

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

3. Portable Charger

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

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

4. Waterproof Cell Case

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

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

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

5. Power Strip for more outlets.

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

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

6. Over the Door Shoe Rack

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

7. Nightlight

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

8. Sunscreen + Extra Sunscreen

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

9. Bug spray

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

10. First Aid Kit + Medicine Bag

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

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

Cruise Packing Tips

5 helpful cruise packing tips to remember.

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

Cruise Packing Checklist

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

Essentials –

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

Clothing –

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

Electronics –

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

Toiletries –

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

Misc. / Optional

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

More Great Cruise Tips

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

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

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

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

Such great recommendations!

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

Such a great idea, thanks!

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

That’s such a great idea!

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

Such a great idea! Thanks for sharing!

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Life preserver hung on the railing on a cruise ship deck

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

The Editors

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

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

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

What to pack for a cruise, clothing/accessories.

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

Miscellaneous/Cruise Specific

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

Carry-on Items for a Cruise

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

What to Pack for a Cruise: At Sea

Row of cruise ship passengers relaxing on lounge chairs on the cruise deck

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

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

The Essential Carry-On Packing List

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

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

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

Where to Buy Formal Wear for a Cruise

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

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

The Essential Beach Packing List

What to Pack for a Cruise: In Port

Group of people heading toward two cruise ships docked at a sunny port

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

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

7 Things You Should Never Do on a Cruise Ship

What to Pack for a Cruise: Everything Else

Woman with her arms outstretched at the bow of a cruise ship, overlooking the ocean

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

Day Trip Gear

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

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

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

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

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

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

5 Simple Ways to Make Travel Easier

In-Flight Essentials

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

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

Important Documents

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

Can I Do Laundry on a Cruise?

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

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

How to Do Laundry on Vacation (No Landromat Required)

What Not to Pack for a Cruise

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

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

Cruise Packing Tips

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

Bring Spare Clothes in Your Carry-On

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

Get a Personal Item That Does Double Duty

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

The Ten Best Cruise Lines for Solo Travelers

Take Advantage of Packing Cubes

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

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

Where to Book a Cruise

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

Download Our Cruise Packing List Before You Set Sail

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

Book a Stay With SmarterTravel Hotels

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

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

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Ultimate Cruise Packing Tips for First-Timers

By Carnival Cruise Line

Remember Essential Documents
Bring a Carry-On Backpack
Keep a First-Aid Kit
Use Sun, Bug, and Rain Protection
Wear Comfortable Closed-Toed Shoes or Water Shoes
Have Proper Attire For Dinner
Take a Light Jacket, Sweater, Sweatshirt or Wrap
Carry a Non-Surge Power Strip
Use Resealable Plastic Bags
Bring Hanging Essentials
Remember Additional Cruising Essentials

After lots of dreaming and planning, you’re going on your first cruise . Now, all you have to do is pack. Don’t worry. This handy cruise packing checklist for first-timers offers all the tips you need for an enjoyable voyage.

friends getting ready to go paddleboarding together

Essential Documents

When packing for a cruise, start with a few essential documents. Make sure to bring:

Your paper or digital airline tickets, if you are flying to your cruise departure port
Your cruise documents
Your passport, an enhanced driver’s license or a government-issued birth certificate to show proof of citizenship (take photos of these documents in case of loss)
A certificate of vaccination (if required)
A medical insurance card and your medical history
Copies of your prescriptions and a list of all medications you’re taking

Carry-On Backpack

On the first day of your cruise , it may take a few hours for your luggage to be delivered to your stateroom, but you don’t have to wait to have fun. Stuff a carry-on backpack with essentials like your cell phone, wallet, bathing suit and sunglasses, and start swimming, sunning or exploring your ship immediately. When it’s time for shore excursions, pack this handy tote with everything you’ll need for the day and save space for a few souvenirs you’ll pick up along the way.

First-Aid Kit

Chances are, you’ll enjoy every day of your cruise in perfect health, but it’s good to be prepared for small ailments that might pop up like a scratchy throat, a headache or a blister. Bring along a small toiletry bag packed with pain relievers, cough drops, allergy medicine, adhesive bandages, antacids, antiseptic wipes, antibacterial hand gel and seasickness remedies like pills, wrist bands, skin patches or ginger chews.

Sun, Rain and Bug Protection

A few protective items keep cruisers comfortable on board the ship and on land. To guard against harmful UVA and UVB rays, pack sunglasses with UV lenses, sunscreen with an SPF factor of 30 or more and a brimmed hat.

In the event that you are going on a snorkeling tour, you need to remember to only bring eco-friendly sunscreen, as most tours now only allow that type of sunscreen on their excursions. In case of rain, stay dry with a small umbrella or light raincoat, and prevent bug bites with some travel-sized mosquito repellent.

father and daughter happily ready to snorkel together

Comfortable Closed-Toed Sandals or Water Shoes

Your footwear can make or break your cruise vacation. Comfortable, closed-toed sandals or water shoes with anti-slip soles make the perfect choice for staying upright on slippery pool decks, wading in rocky reefs, exploring ancient ruins or shopping till you drop in outdoor markets. For easy transitions from water to land, purchase products made from durable, quick-drying materials.

group of people playing volleyball at sportsquare onboard a carnival ship

Proper Attire for Dinner

If you’re cruise packing for the first time, make sure to bring the proper attire for dinner. While you can come as you are at lunchtime, dinner on a cruise calls for more elegant attire. Think smart-casual dress for women and slacks and a collared shirt for men. If you enjoy extra glitz and glamour, you can dress up in cocktail dresses, gowns, suits and ties or tuxedos on “formal night.”

group of friends watching an executive chef prepare his specialty dish

Light Jacket, Sweater, Sweatshirt or Wrap

When you’re at sea, it can get chilly after the sun goes down. Don’t miss out on stargazing from the deck or cozying up in a lounge chair with a box of popcorn for a dive-in movie . Stay warm and comfortable with a light jacket, sweater, sweatshirt or wrap.

Non-Surge Power Strip

These days, travelers depend on lots of electrical gadgets and electronics for a comfortable vacation including phones, tablets, cameras, portable gaming devices, electric shavers, hair dryers and curling irons. Make sure you have enough plug-ins and outlets in your stateroom by packing a non-surge power strip. When shopping, look for one with a few regular outlets and USB ports.

Resealable Plastic Bags

Who knew something as simple as a resealable plastic bag could be a cruiser’s best friend? These handy items take up little space in your suitcase, and they keep your smartphone, wallet and other items safe and dry on water-related shore excursions . When you’re ready to pack for your trip home, use them to store wet toothbrushes or bathing suits.

Hanging Organizers

Few items help keep your stateroom neat and orderly like hanging organizers. A variety of companies sell attractive toiletry bags that can hang on bathroom towel bars and hooks. For all of your toiletry needs, consider packing the following items:

A comb or brush
Conditioner
Non-aerosol hairspray
A toothbrush and toothpaste
Dental floss
Nail polish
Nail clippers
A razor and shaving cream

To keep other items like wallets, cell phones, sunglasses and water bottles organized and always at the ready, bring along an over-door shoe organizer with clear pockets.

happy couple in a clean stateroom onboard a carnival ship

Additional Cruising Essentials

A few additional essentials help ensure a more enjoyable cruise. To stay extra comfortable throughout your vacation, consider packing these items:

Magnetic hooks to hold light jackets and bags, hats and wet swimming suits
Athletic shoes for hitting the jogging track or SportSquare ™
Wrinkle-release spray and spot stain remover to always look neat and put together
A waterproof camera for exploring scenic reefs or cenotes
Reading material like paperback books or magazines
Magnetic message board for communicating with fellow travelers
A lanyard for your cruise ship keycard

Because you may not be able to pick up whatever you need when you’re out at sea, it’s important to pack carefully for your first cruise. To ensure you don’t forget any of your must-haves, make use of this handy cruise checklist.

When packing for a cruise, always consider your destination , the duration of your trip, your ship’s onboard activities and the shore excursions you’ll be taking. But most of all, don’t forget to save room pack some new memories during your trip and have fun!

family having fun at the beach on a private island

Note: Onboard activities, shore excursions, and dining options may vary by ship and destination.

Plan for fun.

https://www.carnival.com/cruise-from.aspx

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What to Pack for a Cruise Checklist pDF

Whether you’re looking for a 7 day cruise packing list pdf or printable cruise checklist for a cruise of any length, we’ve got you covered!

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Cruise In Style: What To Include In Your Cruise Packing List

This guide covers everything you need to include on your packing list to ensure you have an enjoyable cruise vacation.

Veronica Charnell • Sep 10, 2024

personal items packed inside a suitcase for travel

Packing for a cruise requires a bit of strategic planning to ensure you have everything you need for a smooth and enjoyable trip. Planning a cruise can be an exciting adventure, but packing for it can be a bit daunting. To help you prepare, here’s a comprehensive guide on what to include in your cruise packing list for 2024. This ultimate cruise packing guide covers everything from important documents you need to take with you to clothing and personal items, ensuring you have everything you need for a smooth and enjoyable Caribbean experience.

This viral video has helped fliers to avoid lost luggage. Pictured: a Black Woman packing

Essential Documents

Passport and travel documents.

Your passport is the most crucial item for international cruises . Ensure it’s valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates. Additionally, bring your cruise tickets, boarding passes, and any necessary visas.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is a must for any cruise. It covers unexpected events like medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost luggage. Keep a copy of your insurance policy and emergency contact numbers handy.

Casual Wear

Unless you’re heading to a clothes-optional resort, you’ll need something to wear. Pack comfortable casual clothes for daytime activities. This includes shorts, t-shirts, sundresses, and comfortable walking shoes. Don’t forget a light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings. Many cruises have formal nights where guests dress up for dinner. Pack at least one formal outfit, such as a cocktail dress or a suit and tie. Check your cruise line’s dress code for specifics, as some can be rather particular.

If you plan to hit the pool or the beach once you’re ashore, a swimsuit is a must on your cruise packing list. Bring at least two swimsuits so you always have a dry one handy. Don’t forget a cover-up, flip-flops, and a beach bag for poolside lounging or beach excursions.

If you plan to use the ship’s gym or participate in active excursions, pack workout clothes and sneakers. Consider moisture-wicking fabrics for comfort.

Personal Items

While most cruise ships provide basic toiletries, it’s best to bring your own. Pack travel-sized shampoo, conditioner, body wash, toothpaste, and any other personal hygiene products you use daily. Don’t forget sunscreen and after-sun lotion.

Medications

Bring all necessary prescription medications in their original containers. It’s also wise to pack a small first-aid kit with band-aids, pain relievers, seasickness remedies, and any other over-the-counter medications you might need. Natural Motion Sickness Patches are patches that are made from natural ingredients and are used to relieve symptoms of motion sickness. They can be placed behind the ear or on the navel and can last up to 72 hours.

Electronics

Pack your smartphone, charger, and any other electronics you might need, such as a camera, e-reader, or tablet. Don’t forget a power strip or multi-port USB charger, as cruise ship cabins often have limited outlets. If you plan to go snorkeling, scuba diving, or to a water park, I suggest bringing a waterproof camera. If you’re cruising with Carnival , you can rent one onboard the cruise ship from the shore excursions desk.

Accessories

A small backpack or tote bag is essential for shore excursions. Use it to carry water, snacks, sunscreen, and any souvenirs you pick up along the way. Keep luggage restrictions and specifications for your cruise in mind, and be sure to leave room in the bag for any of the shopping you might do.

Travel Wallet

A travel wallet or money belt can keep your passport, credit card, and cash secure. Remember to look for one with RFID protection to prevent electronic theft. Ideally, a wallet that you can easily identify as your own and that is easy to carry no matter what you’re wearing should be your cruise-packing go-to.

Sunglasses and Hat

Protect yourself from the sun with a good pair of sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat. These are essential for both on-deck activities and shore excursions. Remember to bring your favorite sunscreen. The best sunscreen to use for a cruise is a water-resistant sunscreen. Look for the word “sports” on the sunscreen bottle. It’s more than likely that the sunscreen you’ve packed is water-resistant, as most modern brands are.

Additional Travel Items to Consider

Reusable water bottle and snacks.

Stay hydrated by bringing a reusable water bottle. Many cruise ships have water stations where you can refill it throughout the day. While cruise ships offer plenty of food, it’s a good idea to bring some snacks for excursions or late-night cravings. Granola bars, nuts, and dried fruit are great options.

Entertainment

Cruise ships are often hotbeds of entertainment, from poolside parties to shows and sports. However, you’re bound to have a few moments where you’re in want of something else to keep yourself busy. Pack a few books, magazines, or puzzles to keep yourself entertained during downtime. An e-reader can save space and provide a variety of reading options.

Packing Tips to Simplified Your Travel Experience

Packing for a cruise in 2024 requires a bit of strategic planning to ensure you have everything you need for a smooth and enjoyable trip. Additionally, packing cubes can help you organize your suitcase and maximize space. Use them to separate different types of clothing and keep everything neat. You can also, try rolling your clothes instead of folding them can save space and reduce wrinkles. This is especially useful for casual and activewear.

Check the Weather

Before you pack, check the weather forecast for your cruise destinations. This will help you pack appropriately and avoid overpacking. By following this comprehensive cruise packing list, you’ll be well-prepared for your 2024 cruise adventure.

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18+ Things I Always Pack in My Cruise Carry-On Bag

When you board the ship on the first day of your cruise, you’ll hand over your main luggage to a porter, and you probably won’t see it again until it’s delivered to your cabin later in the day. That’s why your cruise carry-on bag is so important—it should be packed with the essentials you’ll need right away.

When I fly, I always have a set of travel essentials in my item bag . Since I typically fly in a day before my cruise, I adjust what I pack in my bag that I will carry onto my cruise to include a few extra items specific to embarkation day while moving things I no longer need for the flight into my checked luggage. Normally, my checked luggage is the size of a carry-on, which I could choose to roll onto the ship, but I never do.

The biggest difference is generally adding sunscreen, a swimsuit, and a light change of clothes. I like to be pool-ready and also have another set of clothes in case there are any delays with luggage delivery.

Cruise ship docked at port alongside carry-on luggage and duffel bag with the title 'Cruise Carry-On Bag: What to Pack'."

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This packing list covers the must-have items I always pack, and you should also pack and carry them on your cruise carry-on.

Table of Contents

1. Don’t Leave Without Your Identification, Wallet and Boarding Passes

You won’t get on the ship without proper identification, your wallet with your form of payment, and your cruise boarding passes. Be sure to check with the cruise line to confirm what identification is required for check-in . Always carry your passport and have your cruise documents ready and accessible—both on paper and digitally as screenshots or within the cruise line’s app. Keep your wallet handy with any cash and credit cards you might need.

2. Keep Your Travel Documents in Check

Create a travel folder to keep all your important documents—like your passport, boarding passes, and reservation confirmations—in one place. Store this folder in your cruise carry-on bag so they don’t get lost. Of course, always have digital copies backed up to your Google Drive or your Phone.

3. Pack Your Prescription Meds and Must-Have OTCs

Keep all prescription and OTC medications in your cruise carry-on bag, including seasickness meds. You never know what might happen after you check in your luggage at the port, so it’s best to have your medications on hand when needed. Avoid packing them in your checked suitcase. We like to organize them in our favorite pill organizer.

4. Your Mobile Phone: Don’t Cruise and Travel Without It!

Nowadays, our mobile devices do more than keep us connected with the ones we love. It is how we take photos and videos and access important data that we might need at check-in.

5. Never Run Out of Power: Charging Cable and Portable Charger

I never travel anywhere without a portable charger . With how much I use my phone for photos, my battery is usually drained halfway through the day. I don’t want to leave my phone behind in the cabin to charge, so I always pack my favorite external charger and a charging cable.

6. Keep Your Valuables Close: Electronics and Jewelry

Pack valuable electronics like your Kindle , camera, video recorders, headphones, other pricey devices, and any jewelry you’d be upset to lose in your cruise carry-on bag. It’s always better to be safe than sorry.

7. Swimsuit Ready: Dive Right into the Fun

If lounging by the pool is your top priority when you board, consider wearing your swimsuit that morning to be ready right away. Alternatively, pack your pool essentials in your cruise carry-on bag to change it as soon as you’re settled.

8. A Fresh Outfit, Just in Case

Luggage delivery can sometimes take until after sailing away, so it’s smart to have a light change of clothes in your cruise carry-on bag. If your suitcase doesn’t show up sooner than later, you’ll be relieved to have something fresh to wear while you sort things out. Notably, a set of undergarments, which you won’t find in the gift shop if you come to find out your luggage is lost.

9. Sunscreen: Always Protect Your Skin

On the first day of a cruise, exploring the ship and spending time on the lido deck is common. Keep sunscreen in your cruise carry-on bag, ready to use before lounging outside. I also recommend applying a layer before leaving your hotel that morning.

10. Skincare Staples You Can’t Cruise Without

I never travel anywhere without my basic facial skincare items and hand lotion in my carry-on. I dispense them into my favorite Cadence travel containers , saving space, and the product lasts me over a week. If my luggage gets lost, at least I have some of my skincare essentials.

11. Toothbrush and Toothpaste to Freshen Up Anytime

It’s a good idea to pack your toothbrush and toothpaste, too. Having them in your cruise carry-on bag means you can freshen up after meals or before dinner, especially if you don’t get access to your cabin or luggage right away. It’s a small comfort that makes a big difference when settling in.

12. Lip Balm with SPF to Protect Your Lips

Packing a lip balm with SPF is always a good idea. This is an item I must have when I travel and plan to be out in the sun a lot. Keeps my lips protected and moisturized, especially when spending time outdoors.

13. Sunglasses to Keep Your Eyes Shaded

What’s a vacation without sunglasses? Pack your favorite pair—you’ll want them when the sun is shining on you while lounging by the pool deck.

15. Stay Hydrated: Bring Your Reusable Water Bottle

If water bottles are not included in your drink package, don’t worry; you can fill up at the buffet with a reusable water bottle . You can also always ask a bartender for a cup of water, but sometimes they are so busy it’s easier to have your water bottle with you. If you have one at home, throw it into your bag.

16. Lanyard, Cruise Card Holder or Crossbody Bag

As soon as you get your Cruise Card, you’ll want to place it somewhere secure but easy to access. Many cruisers use a lanyard — my husband included—while others prefer s ticking a cardholder on the back of their phone . Personally, I like to switch out my carry-on bag for a crossbody bag , which I pack and swap as soon as we’re allowed to drop off our carry-on in the cabin.

17. Clean Hands, Happy Cruise: Wipes and Hand Sanitizer

Disinfectant wipes and a spray are essential to have on hand. I always pack Wet One s and make my own hand sanitizer spray in a small travel-sized bottle with alcohol and a few drops of lavender oil .

18. Eyecare Essentials: Cleaner Cloths and Contact Necessities

As someone who wears glasses, I never travel without an eyeglass cloth to keep my lenses clean , so it’s a must-pack item for me. You’ll want to do the same if you’re on team glasses! And if you wear contact lenses , be sure to pack everything you need, like contact solution, a case, and a pair of regular glasses —just in case.

Packing Tip : Use packing cubes or travel pouches to keep things organized and compartmelized things in your bag.

Bonus: You May Want to Pack Some Soft Drinks, Wine or Champagne

Many cruise lines allow you to bring bottled water, soft drinks, or 1-2 bottles of wine or champagne on board , as long as they are in your carry-on bag, not checked luggage. Be sure to check the specific guidelines of your cruise line, as policies vary between brands. While these items might not fit neatly in a carry-on bag, planning to bring them on board can save you a few bucks if you don’t have a drink package.

Bags You May Want to Consider as a Cruise Carry-on

When choosing a carry-on for your cruise, it’s best to travel with the bag you feel most comfortable with .

If I’m boarding the ship after a flight the day before, I usually stick with the same backpack or duffel bag I traveled with, just swapping out some of the items. The type of bag I choose depends on how challenging my travel days are and how long I’ll need to carry it myself. Sometimes, a duffel is easier to pack , but I only use it if I can mostly roll it on my carry-on suitcase throughout the travel days. On the other hand, a backpack is easier to carry , but if the travel days are too long, it might not be as comfortable for my back.

These are my favorite backpacks and duffels in rotation from Amazon, not including my Monos Duffel .

Can you roll a carry-on-sized suitcase onto the ship?

Yes, you can roll a carry-on-sized suitcase onto the cruise ship if you prefer not to check it in. Typically, the maximum size allowed through security is 22″ x 14″ x 9″. Anything larger must be checked in. Rolling your bag onboard saves you from waiting for your luggage to arrive at your cabin.

If you’re traveling with valuables like camera gear, a small rollaway bag can be a great option to keep everything secure and within reach.

We’ve purchased both Away and Monos suitcases. While I love the Monos duffel, the Away Travel suitcases stand out for their quality. They are worth the cost if you’re looking to invest in reliable luggage with a lifetime warranty.

Key Things to Pack for Your Cruise

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

Beginner’s Guide to Packing for a Cruise
Items You Should Leave Out of Your Cruise Luggage
Must-Have Items for a Caribbean Cruise
Alaska Cruise Packing Guide: Essentials for Your Trip
Men’s Cruise Wardrobe: Outfit Ideas and Tips
Women’s Cruise Wardrobe: Outfit Ideas and Tips

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

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Ultimate 5 Day Cruise Packing List

Cruise Packing List

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ULTIMATE 5 day cruise packing list

How many outfits should I pack for a 5 day cruise?

What to wear on a 5 Day Cruise

Formal Outfits (1 outfits)

Smart Casual Outfits (4 outfits)

Casual Outfits 4 outfits + my embarkation day outfit)

Swimwear (2 pieces)

Beach Cover

Sunglasses

Underwear (5 sets plus spares)

Shoes (3 Pairs)

What do I need to pack for a 5 day cruise (non clothing)?

Passport/identification and essential documentation

Sea sickness medication or bands

Universal Travel Adaptor

Shampoo and Conditioner

Toothbrush and toothpaste

Make-Up (optional)

Period Products

Travel Razor

Brush and Hair Ties

What to pack for a 5 day cruise (Optional)

5 Day Cruise Packing List Checklist

Protect Your Trip »

Carry-on bag

Checked bag

Garment bag

Packing cubes or vacuum-sealed bags

Carry-on caddy

Digital luggage scale

Bungee cord

Luggage tracker

Cruise insurance

Credit cards and local currency

RFID wallet

Medications

Sheet masks

Magnetic hooks

Wrinkle release spray

Laundry detergent

Over-the-door organizers

Shampoo and conditioner

Wine or Champagne

Portable humidifier

International travel adapter or converter

Sound machine

Tech organizer

First-aid kit

Hand sanitizer

Mix-and-match clothing

Sports jacket or blazer

Themed party attire

Travel wrap

Packable jacket

Packable hat