The Ultimate Cruise Packing List You Won’t Regret Printing Out

There’s nothing like stepping onto a cruise ship and realizing you’ve left your phone charger in the car. Packing for a cruise is its own special puzzle. You’re preparing for days at sea, ports of call, fancy dinners, and poolside naps, all in one suitcase.

Cruise cabins are tiny, onboard shops charge a premium, and ship security loves to confiscate things they don’t allow. This guide covers every last detail, from passports to power strips, so you won’t be that person begging the front desk for sunscreen at double the price.

Travel Essentials

These are the things you’ll reach for before you even step onto the ship. Without them, you won’t board, buy a drink, or even check into your cabin. Keep them in your carry-on bag because checked luggage can take hours to be delivered to your stateroom. A folder or zip pouch keeps everything tidy and waterproof. Add digital copies to your phone in case anything goes missing.

• Passport or government-issued ID
• Boarding pass and cruise documents
• Travel insurance papers
• Credit cards and some cash (small bills are handy for tips)
• Vaccination card (if required)
• Copies of all documents stored separately

Clothing Basics

Cruises run on variety: lazy pool days, formal dinners, island excursions, and air-conditioned theaters. Cabins have very limited closet space, so the trick is packing versatile outfits you can mix and repeat. Always bring at least one “dress-up” option, since most ships have formal or “elegant” nights. Add layers because the ship can feel chilly indoors even in tropical regions.

• Casual shirts and shorts
• Lightweight pants or skirts
• Swimsuits (at least two so one can dry)
• Light sweater or jacket
• Formalwear for dinner nights
• Comfortable walking shoes and sandals

Toiletries and Personal Care

Cruise lines provide soap and shampoo, but not much else. Bring what you’re used to, especially if you’re picky about brands. Seasickness can sneak up on even seasoned travelers, so motion sickness remedies are must-pack items. A small first aid kit prevents you from paying inflated onboard prices for simple fixes. Don’t forget sunscreen—it’s one of the most overpriced things at sea.

• Toothbrush, toothpaste, floss
• Shampoo/conditioner if preferred
• Deodorant and razor
• Sunscreen and aloe gel
• Seasickness bands, Dramamine, or patches
• Bandaids, pain relievers, and antiseptic wipes

Electronics and Gadgets

Ship Wi-Fi is notoriously expensive and slow, so downloading before departure saves headaches. A portable charger becomes your best friend on long excursions. Many staterooms have very few outlets, so a non-surge protected power strip is cruise gold. Noise-canceling headphones help with loud cabin hallways. Waterproof phone cases are essential for beach or snorkeling stops.

• Phone and charger
• Portable power bank
• Non-surge protected power strip
• E-reader or tablet with books/movies downloaded
• Headphones
• Waterproof phone pouch

Day Bag Gear

Every excursion day feels smoother if you’ve got a small backpack or crossbody ready. Think about sun, hydration, and security. Ships sell overpriced bottled water, so a reusable bottle is smarter. A waterproof bag for wet swimsuits saves the rest of your belongings from misery. Always toss in snacks from the ship for kids or long tours.

• Small backpack or crossbody bag
• Water bottle
• Sunglasses and hat
• Waterproof pouch for wet clothes
• Lightweight travel towel
• Snacks for excursions

Cabin Comforts

Cruise cabins aren’t known for being spacious or practical. A few smart additions make them more livable. Magnetic hooks (yes, the walls are metal) instantly expand your storage. A foldable laundry bag keeps dirty clothes from taking over. Reusable mugs keep your coffee warm longer than the ship’s tiny cups.

• Magnetic hooks
• Refillable coffee mug or tumbler
• Collapsible laundry bag
• Travel-sized air freshener
• Extra hangers if you need them
• Night light for dark cabins

For Families with Kids

Traveling with children takes planning. Cruise ships are kid-friendly, but not every detail is covered. Bring snacks your kids love, since ship food may not always hit the mark. Pack small games or coloring supplies for downtime. Waterproof ID bands with your name and cabin number help keep younger kids safe on board.

• Favorite snacks from home
• Reusable water bottles
• Small toys, coloring books, card games
• Kid-safe sunscreen
• Child medicine basics (fever reducer, motion sickness chewables)
• ID wristbands for younger kids

For Seasonal or Special Cruises

Packing shifts depending on your itinerary. An Alaskan cruise means thermal layers, gloves, and waterproof jackets. Caribbean cruises demand more swimsuits, light clothing, and reef-safe sunscreen. River cruises or European itineraries often call for comfortable shoes for cobblestones and modest clothing for cathedrals. Always check port weather forecasts before leaving.

• Alaska/Cold: thermal base layers, gloves, binoculars for wildlife
• Caribbean/Tropics: extra swimsuits, reef-safe sunscreen, bug spray
• Europe: comfortable walking shoes, scarves for church visits, plug adapters
• Shoulder season (spring/fall): layers, raincoat, umbrella

Things You Should Not Bring

Cruise lines enforce security rules strictly, and banned items get confiscated at boarding. Don’t waste space on things the ship already provides, like hairdryers or pool towels. Avoid candles or anything with open flame. Irons and kettles are banned for fire safety. Alcohol rules vary, but many lines only allow one bottle of wine per adult.

• Household appliances (irons, kettles, coffee makers)
• Candles or incense
• Alcohol beyond cruise policy
• Expensive jewelry you’d worry about
• Bulky beach towels (ship supplies them)
• Weapons or sharp tools

Additional Handy Tips

• Pack a carry-on for day one since luggage delivery can take hours. Include swimsuits and sunscreen if you want to hit the pool right away.
• Bring a refillable water bottle because hydration stations on board are free.
• Use packing cubes to maximize limited storage space.
• Tag your luggage clearly since hundreds of similar bags arrive at once.
• Download cruise line apps in advance to manage daily schedules without internet.
• Leave space in your luggage for souvenirs, especially if your ship docks in shopping-heavy ports.

Cat Xu

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Catherine, a seasoned travel writer, has lived in 4 different states and explored 36 states and 28 national parks. After spending two years embracing van life, she's now dedicated to sharing her vast knowledge of day trips across America. Catherine's other works has been referenced in major publications like MSN, Self, and TripSavvy.

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