checklist for cruise trip

Advertiser Disclosure

Many of the credit card offers that appear on this site are from credit card companies from which we receive financial compensation. This compensation may impact how and where products appear on this site (including, for example, the order in which they appear). However, the credit card information that we publish has been written and evaluated by experts who know these products inside out. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse. This site does not include all credit card companies or all available credit card offers that are on the market. See our advertising policy here where we list advertisers that we work with, and how we make money. You can also review our credit card rating methodology .

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

Amar Hussain

Senior Content Contributor

779 Published Articles

Countries Visited: 63 U.S. States Visited: 9

Keri Stooksbury

Editor-in-Chief

34 Published Articles 3142 Edited Articles

Countries Visited: 47 U.S. States Visited: 28

Director of Operations & Compliance

1 Published Article 1172 Edited Articles

Countries Visited: 10 U.S. States Visited: 20

Getting Started

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

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

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

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

📋 Click Here to View Our Printable Cruise Packing List 📋

Cruise Packing Tips and Advice

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

Check the Weather

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

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

How Many Nights Are You Away?

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

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

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

Are There Any Special Occasions or Themed Nights?

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

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

Make a Packing List Early

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

Choose the Right Luggage

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

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

Purchase Travel-Sized Items

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

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

What Electronics Should I Take?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Your Passport

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

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

Your Tickets and Travel Documents

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

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

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

Your Personal Details

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

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

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

Get Everything Together and Lay It Out

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

Pick Capsule Items

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

A sample capsule wardrobe for a cruise vacation could include:

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

Remove Anything Unnecessary

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

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

Consider Washing Clothes on the Road

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

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

Fold, Interfold, Bundle, or Roll?

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

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

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

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

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

Use Packing Cubes

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

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

Secure Your Liquids

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

Stuff Your Shoes

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

Take Sticky Notes

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

Other niche items you may not have thought of are:

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

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

Check the Airline Baggage Policy

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

Cabin Luggage

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

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

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

Checked Luggage

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

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

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

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

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

The 3-1-1 rule essentially means:

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

Never Check Essentials

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Travel List App

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

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

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

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

Packing List Checklist

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

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

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

Cruise Ship Mate

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

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

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

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

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

Cruise Card Control

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

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

Deck Director

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

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

The app is free for both iOS and Android devices.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Frequently Asked Questions

What should i pack for my cruise.

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

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

What can you not bring on a cruise?

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

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

How much cash should I bring on a cruise?

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

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

Was this page helpful?

About Amar Hussain

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

INSIDERS ONLY: UP PULSE ™

Get the latest travel tips, crucial news, flight & hotel deal alerts...

Plus — expert strategies to maximize your points & miles by joining our (free) newsletter.

We respect your privacy . This site is protected by reCAPTCHA. Google's privacy policy and terms of service apply.

Related Posts

UP's Bonus Valuation

This bonus value is an estimated valuation calculated by UP after analyzing redemption options, transfer partners, award availability and how much UP would pay to buy these points.

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

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

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

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

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

Daytime clothing

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Evening clothing

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Here's your eveningwear packing list:

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

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

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

Related: 13 things you should do before every cruise

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

Here's your footwear packing list:

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

Accessories and gear

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

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

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

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

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

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

Toiletries and medicine

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Travel gear

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cabin enhancements

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Pack these items to enhance our cruise cabin:

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

Port day gear

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Miscellaneous items to pack for your cruise

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What not to pack for a cruise

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

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

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

Bottom line

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

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

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

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

Posted on Last updated: February 9, 2024

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

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

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

Essential Documents

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Personal Care Items

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Health and Medication

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Gadgets and Electronics

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Entertainment

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Optional But Handy

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Commonly Forgotten Items on a Cruise

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Extra Items Depending on Itinerary

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

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

Tropical or Caribbean Cruises

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

Alaskan or Northern Cruises

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

European or River Cruises

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

Asian Cruises

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

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

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

Middle Eastern Cruises

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

Australian or New Zealand Cruises

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

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

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

How Best to Pack for a Cruise

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

FAQs on Cruise Packing List

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Ultimate Cruise Packing List – Printable Checklist Included!

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

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

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

What to Wear on Cruise Vacations

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

Excursion outfits

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

Around the ship

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

Non-formal dining nights

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

Formal night on cruise

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

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

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

Packing List for Cruise

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

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

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

Clothes for Cruise Travel

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

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

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

Accessories

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

Other Things to Bring on a Cruise

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

Electronics

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

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

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

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

Seasickness Prevention

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

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

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

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

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

Cruise Packing List for Men

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

What to Wear on a Cruise Men

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

Shoes & Accessories

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

Cruise Packing List for Kids

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

What to Pack for a Cruise for Kids

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

What to Bring on a Cruise with Kids

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

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

How to Pack for a Cruise

Here’s what luggage I recommend for a cruise:

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

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

Cruise Packing Checklist to Download

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

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

Questions & Comments on What to Pack on Cruise Ships

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

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

Join Our Facebook Group to Chat More About Cruise Packing Tips

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

Pin this post for later!

• Pinterest 2.9k
• Send to a Friend 16

Wow, such thorough info! Nice job.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hope this helps! Marisela

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

pdf is no longer available. Can you help?

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Flashpacker Family is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com and its partners.

Affiliate advertising is used throughout this site. These affiliate ads allow me to earn a small commission on any bookings you may make but they do not incur any extra cost to you.

You can read our privacy policy here.

Start typing and press Enter to search

How to Pack for Your Cruise Vacation

Everything You Need to Take on Your Cruise

TripSavvy / Melissa Ling 

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

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

Cruise Travel Essentials

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

Travel Documents, Wallet Items, and Paperwork Packing List

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

Reading Material and Necessities Packing List

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

Electronics and Camera Equipment Packing List

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

Medicine Kit Packing List

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

Other "Necessities" Packing List

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

Women's Cruise Clothing Packing List

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

Women's Sundries and Miscellaneous

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

Men's Cruise Clothing Packing List

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

Men's Sundries and Miscellaneous

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

Vacation Packing Checklist for France

Top 10 Travel Essentials

What to Pack for Mexico

The 14 Best Survival Kits of 2024

The 11 Best Carry-on Backpacks of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Everything You Should Pack for a Camping Trip

How to Pack for an Alaskan Cruise

What to Pack in Your Carry-On Bag When Flying with Kids

Everything You Should Pack for a Hiking Trip

The 10 Best Delsey Luggage Items of 2024

Organize Your Stash With Keokee's Clear Toiletry Bag Set

Packing List for an Overnight Hike

Dos and Don'ts for Your Disney Cruise Embarkation Day

Keep These Items out of Your Carry-On Bag

The Best Travel Camera Cases and Backpacks of 2024, Tested and Reviewed

Best Ways to Prepare for Airport Security Screenings

Pragmatic Travelers

Quick, approachable and straight-up. Travel inspiration for pragmatists.

Free, Printable and Ultimate Cruise Packing Checklist

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

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

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

Table of Contents

Best Items I Brought on my Cruise

Samsonite freeform carry on.

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

Lily & Drew Carry On Weekender/Shoulder Bag

Travel Space Saver Bags

Mangopop Long Sleeve Bodysuit

Soft White Sweater

Silky V-Neck Midi Slip Dress

What I packed: Cruise Packing List

Important items.

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

Clothing & Accessories

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

Bathroom Gear

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

Medical Gear

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

Miscellaneous

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

What should be in your carry on bag?

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

Don’t bring these items on a cruise

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

Free/Printable Cruise Packing Checklist

You may also like..., ultimate review: excellence oyster bay in jamaica.

How to Enjoy Cocktails on a Road Trip

Ultimate Review: Casa Colonial Beach and Spa in D.R.

A Perfect (budget-friendly) Day at Cemetery Beach in the Cayman Islands

• Work with Us
• Destinations

Complete Guide: What to Pack for a Cruise Plus Printable Checklist

It’s been decades and hundreds of cruises since I packed for my first cruise. Never one to leave anything behind, you’d think I packed for an around-the-world voyage rather than a seven-night Caribbean cruise.

Back then, I didn’t have a cruise packing list or even a checklist to help me pack for my cruise. That’s why I finally put together a cruise packing list for a Caribbean cruise. Or a cruise to just about anywhere!

If you’re wondering what to pack for your cruise, here’s my complete guide to packing for a cruise. 

Plus at the end, there’s a printable packing checklist to get you organized and on your way.

What Things to Pack for a Cruise

This post may contain affiliate links which won’t change your price but will share some commission..

Over the years, I’ve fine-tuned what I should pack for a cruise. I try to pack light so I can always maneuver my way through any concourse, corridor or cobblestone street.

My goal is to pack everything I need into a 25” spinner suitcase plus a carry-on bag like a backpack or duffle. I check my larger suitcase with the port baggage handler, along with a $5 tip!

Lately, for my iPad, laptop, camera and accessories, I use my Delsey small computer spinner suitcase , too. I’ve dragged both pieces of luggage with me on a two dozen transatlantic crossings, 40+ river cruises and hundreds of Caribbean and other cruises.

Four Basic Rules for Packing for a Cruise

• The first seems obvious but frequently overlooked; know the weather where you’ll cruise.
• Second, essential items you’ll need no matter where the destination.
• Third, take half of what you’ve pulled out of your closet and drawers.
• Fourth, certain items must always stay with you.

What to Pack in Your Carry-On Bag or Backpack

• Important paperwork – tickets and travel insurance info
• List of emergency phone numbers back home
• Travel ID documents – passport, visas
• Wallet with cash, credit cards (2 credit cards if possible or 1 debit and 1 credit card), driver’s license
• Cruise line luggage tags to attach at destination (if you are flying)
• All medications in original prescription container
• Tip money for porters – $1 and $5 dollar bills in US currency
• Jewelry (leave the good stuff at home)
• Touch-up makeup and toiletries
• Spare glasses and/or contact lenses
• Compact camera – in addition to my iPhone camera.
• Phone and equipment chargers
• Change of clothes to wear until your luggage is delivered
• Laptop, iPad, Kindle Paperwhite  e-reader

Even Teddy loves Packing Cubes . I wouldn’t travel without them. I usually roll my clothes into each packing cube. 

When I unpack in my stateroom, the cube is unzipped and placed into drawers or on shelves. So easy. 

Clothes to Pack for a Cruise

• Dress socks/stockings, athletic socks
• Swimsuits: 1 or 2 and cut-offs are not allowed in the pool
• 1 beach and pool coverup
• 1 or 2 sets of workout clothes/yoga pants/sports top
• 2 or 3 pairs of women’s shorts or capris
• 1-2 casual pants/skirts
• 1 to 3 casual sundresses
• 2 or 3 pairs of men’s shorts/casual pants/khakis
• 4 or 5 T-shirts/blouses/tops for women
• 5-6 T-shirts/polo shirts/casual shirts for men during the day and casual nights
• Jeans are acceptable – not torn or ratty looking – and not at dinner in the main dining room.

More Cruise Packing Tips:  What to Pack for an Alaska Cruise

What to Wear on Formal Night

Much of your decision on what to pack for formal night should be based on the cruise line you choose. Many passengers on luxury lines like Silversea, Regent and Cunard tend to dress up on formal nights.

• Women:  One or two dressy outfits – dressy pants and blouse, cocktail dress. Some women still wear long formal dresses but not as often.
• Men:  One sport coat or dark jacket, 2 ties, 1 or 2 collared shirts.

Shoes and Wearable Accessories

• 3-5 pairs:  Sandals, sneakers, dress shoes, comfortable walking shoe. Optional – sturdy closed-toe shoes for horseback riding or hiking, flip-flops for pool, beach and inside your stateroom.
• Lightweight sweater, cardigan or pashmina for air conditioned public rooms.
• Crushable sun hat/cap/visor
• Packable poncho (disposable) or folding umbrella
• Bring “layer-able” clothes and a jacket if cooler weather is predicted, say for a winter cruise that includes the Bahamas.

Cruise Maven Packing Tip

Seems obvious but easy to overlook. Choose one major color and mix ‘n’ match your wardrobe around it. Bring 1 or 2 lightweight scarves to dress up or change the appearance of the same outfit.

Your cruise ship will provide the basics: shampoo, conditioner, body lotion. Sometimes their shampoo doubles as body wash. Ick. Unless you’re going on a luxury cruise, you may want to bring your own.

• Shampoo and conditioner
• Poo-Pouri 
• Hair spray or styling spray/gel
• Bar soap/body wash
• Body lotion
• Emery board and nail clipper
• Toothbrush – toothpaste – floss
• Travel size mouthwash
• Contact lens solution (spare lenses go in your carry-on)
• Eye makeup remover
• Insect repellent
• Lip balm with an SPF and for the dry air in the stateroom
• After-sun lotion with aloe
• Flat or curling iron
• Folding hair dryer. Ask the cruise line – Some older ships still have wall-mounted, short cord, low-watt dryers.
• Styling brushes and comb

Makeup and Skin Care

If you tend to use a full array of makeup every day, try to bring only the bare necessities.

• Eye shadow base
• Makeup brushes
• Concealer – If you plan to tan, bring concealer one shade darker, too
• Eyebrow pencil and/or powder filler
• Day treatment products
• Night treatment products
• Hand/body lotion

Here’s My Printable Cruise Packing List

What to pack for a 7-night cruise also works for a 14-night cruise. On a weekend getaway cruise to the Bahamas , obviously you won’t need as much clothing but you’ll still pack the same items in your carry-on bag.

Cruise Packing Tip for Cosmetics

I’ve stopped using those pretty makeup bags. Instead, I use clear plastic zip-top freezer bags in various sizes. I put all makeup brushes into one bag. Then eye makeup and face products (blush, concealer, foundation) into another.

Hair brushes and combs (yes I travel with two hair brushes, one wide-tooth comb and a rat-tail comb) go into a large freezer bag. 

Hair products (travel size hair spray, mousse and conditioner) in yet another freezer bag. I can see where every item is without having to rummage around to find the right item.

Finally, when I unpack I put ALL my eye pencils, mascara, and brushes into one or two of the bathroom glasses. Easy to find, use and put away.

Another advantage of using little bags – I can roll them up and stuff each one inside my shoes and save a ton of space.

Medications & Hygiene

• All daily meds must go into your carry-on bag. Bring the original containers.
• Get your prescriptions refilled at home so you don’t run out.
• Sanitary items for women, bathroom wipes, Clorox wipes for stateroom surfaces, handiwipes for shore excursions
• Ask your physician about a “care” package – cough meds, antibiotics, Imodium, Benadryl-type antihistamine – anti-itch med, anti-nausea etc.
• First aid supplies – assorted bandages, antibiotic ointment, alcohol wipes, aspirin or whatever you take for pain relief, kid scissors
• Seasick pills like Bonine (doesn’t make you drowsy) or Dramamine (makes you drowsy) or naturopathic remedies like candied ginger and ginger chewables. Check with your doctor first. I’m not a physician.

Cruise Maven Travel Tip

If you are bringing kids, check with their pediatrician for any other necessary items or suggestions on what you should pack for your cruise with kids.

Convenient Cruise Items

• Night light for your stateroom
• Travel-size flashlight
• Travel alarm clock
• Foam ear plugs
• Magnet hooks to hang up clothes, important notes and such – most walls are metal.
• Clothes pins to use for hanging hand washables on the shower clothes line
• Highlighter pens to use for your daily cruise planner
• Dirty clothes bag
• Lightweight beach bag or tote bag that folds into itself for packing
• Extra zip top freezer bags
• A few sheets of bubble wrap for souvenirs

Read Next:  10 Essential Little Items to Pack for a Cruise

Electronics.

• Mobile phone
• Phone charger including plug and cord (bring a spare if you have one)
• Laptop or iPad/Kindle (goes in your carry-on) and chargers
• Non-Surge Power Strip with USB  
• Camera, lenses and filters (see above – in your carry-on)
• Camera battery charger and camera case
• Underwater camera
• iPhone Tripod Selfie Stick with remote
• Any instruction books that you might need to brush up on devices’ features
• Travel size bluetooth speaker and charger
• External hard drive (I have this one) or flash drive to download your wonderful photos each night
• Extra memory cards – so you don’t have to buy a weird, non-name brand card in port
• Lightweight binoculars – especially if you don’t have a telephoto camera lens

ALWAYS download all your podcasts, music, movies and TV shows before you leave home.

Unless you buy an unlimited streaming internet package, don’t waste your expensive onboard internet minutes trying to download anything…it’s nearly impossible anyway.

Spread out all of your electronics on your bed before you pack them. Pair each device with its charger and accessories. 

Then pack each device with its own gear. It will be a lot easier to find everything later.

How Do I Bring Alcohol on My Cruise

Each cruise line has its own and varying policy for BYOB.

• You may be able to hand-carry one or two bottles of wine onboard your ship.
• Check your cruise line’s website for its alcohol policy details or ask your travel agent
• Read my list of every cruise lines’ policy  for bringing wine on your cruise ship.

I hope my cruise packing list helps you to know what to pack for your cruise. I still use my printable packing checklist every time I get ready to leave. Have a wonderful cruise!

Download My Printable Cruise Packing Checklist

Please pin and share to your favorite boards, you’ll also love.

Top 10 Totally Underrated Cruise Ports to Visit Soon

New Cunard Cancellation Policy for Mid-2017 and Beyond

Top 10 Reasons Why I Like the Lido Buffet for Most Lunches and Dinners

Best Things to Do in Ponta Delgada, Azores on a Day in Port

Top 10 Tips to Plan Your First Cruise

Everything You Need to Know to Cruise with Dietary Requirements

15 comments.

Hi Fran, Ooooh, that’s a great idea! I “collect” those little emergency sewing kits from hotels or cruise ships that are pre-threaded. I have one of those old Buttoneer gizmos, so that’s probably why I didn’t think of a sewing kit. I’m sure they are also available on Amazon. Thanks for the terrific suggestion and taking the time to add your suggestion. Happy travels! P.S. For a major repair, you can ask your room attendant to see if someone in the laundry area can do any alterations. I did that once with a dress that I didn’t have time to fix before a Holland America cruise. But maybe that isn’t an option anymore.

Hope you’ll include a portable Sewing Kit for emergency stitching.

This is a great list. I have traveled on over 80 cruises, and this is exactly what I have needed. It is compact and concise.

That’s a very good point. I’ll mention it again. There’s nothing more embarrassing that being in a store in Europe and having your credit card declined simply because the bank didn’t know you were overseas. Thank you for your comment. Sherry

Hi Sherry, Please remind your readers to call their credit card companies in advance and alert them to your travel plans. Fraud protection these days will often put a hold on a card if it’s used outside your geographic region.

Hi Liz, Perfect timing! I’ve been working on an Alaska packing list for this week. After my trip to Alaska last summer and staying for 6 weeks, I learned a lot about what to pack (it was 80 and sunny in September!)and how to prepare for weather variations. I hope to have it published later today or tomorrow. Please check back or if you subscribe to my newsletter, it will be there either this week or next. Thank you for writing! Happy cruising! Sherry

HI Sherry, This sounds very much how we pack for warm weather cruises. 7 nights in our train luggage. However, do you have an alternative list for Alaska? Especially when there are no launderettes on ship?

Hi Karen, I’m so jealous…I loved my recent Panama Canal cruise and would go again in a minute! I’m glad my crazy-long packing list is helpful for you. Have a fabulous cruise! Sherry

This looks like a perfect list….been looking for a while, Everything covered. About to try it out, 30 days until my departure ….first cruise …. going through panama canal. Thanks

Hi Karen, Thanks for sharing your idea! I especially like the convertible cocktail cup concept! Bon Voyage to you, too! Sherry

My husband and I NEVER go on a cruise without our TRAVEL COFFEE (COCKTAIL) MUGS. The coffee cups are so small on ships, we load up on the coffee and walk the ship/shore with it. Then it turns into our cocktail class. The insulated mug keeps our drinks cooler much longer. BON VOYAGE!

Hi Marlene, All good ideas! Thank you for contributing to the list. Sherry

Extra zip lock bags of various sizes. Travel alarm.

Hi Marcia, Thanks for your comment. I’ve heard from others that also bring a battery candle. And I totally agree about bringing more than one credit card…I have a fear of getting it trapped in an ATM! I hope your summer is off to a good start. Sherry

Nice list Sherry. Instead of a nightlight I bring a battery tea candle light(s), I don’t have to worry about a plug and I place it where it works for me. Also, never travel with one credit card. I had one get trapped in an ATM.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

What are you looking for?

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

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

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

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

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

Clothes to Pack for a Cruise

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

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

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

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

Cruise Packing List - CLOTHES

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Accessories to Pack for a Cruise

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

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

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

Cruise Packing List - ACCESSORIES

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Toiletries to Pack for a Cruise

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

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

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

Cruise Packing List - TOILETRIES

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Electronics to Pack for a Cruise

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

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

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

Here are the items our family packs for each cruise.

Cruise Packing List - ELECTRONICS

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Health Items to Pack for a Cruise

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

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

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

Cruise Packing List - Health Items

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Money & Docs to Pack for a Cruise

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

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

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

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

Cruise Packing List - Money & Docs

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Extras to Pack for a Cruise

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

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

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

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

Cruise Packing List - Extras

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Gangwaze is your one-stop destination for shore tours, pre-cruise hotels, transfers, vacation insurance & more. We’ve partnered with industry leaders to bring you the best deals and the most convenience.

We love hearing from you. Email us directly or holler through socials.

Cruise Packing Tips

• >> Cruise Essentials – 50 Brilliant Things to Bring on a Cruise

Cruise Essentials – 50 Brilliant Things to Bring on a Cruise

Cruising is so much fun and thinking about what to bring on a cruise is one of the best ways to create some excitement before your trip. Putting together your cruise essentials can start a few months before you set sail. Allow yourself enough time to get all the things to bring on a cruise ordered online, out of storage and packed up ready to go.

Whether you’re a new cruiser wondering what the essential items for a cruise are or an experienced cruiser looking to freshen up your cruise essentials packing list, we’re sure you’ll find something useful on our cruise essentials list! What to take on a cruise depends somewhat on the destination, how light you prefer to pack and the duration of the cruise. All of the things to take on a cruise we’ve listed below are useful items but it’s up to you to decide what cruise travel essentials you’ll pack for your trip.

Start thinking about cruise essentials to pack and laying them out on a spare bed or in a storage box in a quiet corner of your house. Use our cruise essentials checklist to mark off items as you find or purchase them.

You don’t need to purchase every single one of the cruise ship essentials we’ve mentioned but a lot of these items are very helpful. We have covered cruise packing essentials to organize your luggage, useful items for organising your stateroom, essentials to take on a cruise to avoid seasickness

• 1.1 Our Top 10 Cruise Essentials
• 1.2 More Essential Items to Take on a Cruise
• 1.3 Essential Cruise Accessories for Organizing Your Cabin
• 1.4 Cruise Wardrobe Essentials
• 1.5 Cruise Packing Essentials

Cruise Essentials

Our Top 10 Cruise Essentials

These are the top 10 essentials to pack for a cruise. Everyone should have these items (or a variation of them that suits your needs):

• Waterproof phone case – FFor keeping your phone, cash and sailing card safe when you’re swimming or at the beach
• Lanyard – For wearing your cruise card around the ship
• Seabands / Seasickness medication
• Highlighters – For highlighting your daily cruise schedule
• Lysol disinfecting wipes or Lysol to Go spray – For sanitizing your cabin on arrival
• Powerstrip without surge protector – Surge protectors are not allowed on board
• Conditioner – You’ll be swimming a lot and they often don’t have it in cabins
• Sunscreen / Aftersun  – Bring a spray sunscreen for your body, a face sunscreen and aftersun lotion
• Bathing suit coverup / UV swim vest
• Packing cubes – For organizing your suitcase

More Essential Items to Take on a Cruise

• Ginger candy
• Downy Wrinkle Release (travel size)
• Travel coffee cup
• Refillable water bottle
• Earplugs or portable sound machine – If you’re a light sleeper or in case of noisy neighbors
• Travel alarm clock
• Wine bottle – One 750 ml bottle per adult depending on cruise line you’re with
• Wine bottle protector
• Soda – 12 cans per person depending on cruise line you;re with
• Tide to Go – Stain remover pen for emergencies
• Tide pods – Carnival has laundry rooms on board if you need them
• Travel laundry sheets – For handwashing laundry in your room if necessary
• Hand sanitzer – Travel size
• Beach towel clip
• Rain poncho
• Travel umbrella
• Anti-chaffing balm
• Small first aid kit
• Portable speakers
• Refillable perfume atomizer
• Tea bags or instant coffee if you’re fussy about what you drink
• Antacid tablets
• Download a few Netflix shows or movies to your ipad

Tip: These cruise essentials make great gifts for your travel companions or to give to cruise lovers over the holidays.

Essential Cruise Accessories for Organizing Your Cabin

• Small dry erase board – Magentic ones are useful for the outside door of your cabin
• Magnetic hooks
• Ziploc bags
• Plastic document wallet
• Bungee cord – For holding open your balcony door
• Overdoor shoe organizer – For adding additional storage in your room
• Post It notes

Tip: Keep all these items to take on a cruise packed in a storage box for any future cruises you take. It will make packing for a cruise easier next time!

Cruise Wardrobe Essentials

• Aqua shoes – If planning on an excursion that requires them
• UV swim vest
• Bathing suit coverups
• Packable sunhat or sunvisor
• Cheap sunglasses you can wear in the ocean or pool

For a full list of cruise clothing essentials for your specific cruise type, check out our cruise packing lists . We go into great depth on the cruise essentials clothing you’ll need for the various cruise types.

Tip: Read our guide to  fun things to bring on a cruise for more ideas!

Cruise Packing Essentials

These packing essentials to bring on a cruise will help you organize your luggage.

• Travel wallet / organiser
• Packing cubes
• Cruise luggage tags
• Hanging toiletry bag
• Garment bag
• Laundry bag or pop up hamper
• Prescription medication organizer
• Folding backpack
• Cooler – 12 can, soft sided
• Travel toiletry bottles
• Wet-dry bag – For traveling home with wet swimsuits

What do you think the best items to bring on a cruise are? If you’ve got any questions about what to take on a cruise ship or want to share your ideas on the best things to bring on a cruise, leave us a comment below.

If you want to chat more about what to bring on a cruise ship, you can join our Facebook group to chat with other cruises. It’s a great way to get ideas on the best things to take on a cruise.

Still need help? Take our FREE email course!

If you still need help deciding what to pack for your upcoming cruise, sign up to take our short email course. You'll learn what to wear on a cruise, what little cruise essentials can really help, how to pack your bag, what the best suitcase to take is and what to leave behind. Sign up now. It's totally FREE!

We created Cruise Packing Tips to share our extensive knowledge on how to pack for a cruise. As seasoned cruisers who loves to pack just the right amount for each trip, we will help you get your cruise packing list down to a fine art.

Click Here to Leave a Comment Below

Leave a reply:.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Celebrity Blog

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

The Only Cruise Packing List You’ll Ever Need

By Elissa Garay

Last updated: November 7th, 2023

• Find a Cruise

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read: Expert Cruise Packing Tips

Undergarments & Sleepwear

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

Casual Daywear

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

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

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

Smart Casual Evenings

Evenings on Celebrity’s ships reflect the ambiance of Relaxed Luxury.

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

Evening Chic

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Beachwear & Activewear

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

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

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

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

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

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

Accessories

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hair & Makeup Products

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

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

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

Health & Safety Products

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

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

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

What documents do I need to pack for a cruise?

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

Wallet & Money Belt Items

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

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

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

Read: Do You Need a Passport for a Cruise?

Documentation & Contact Info

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What else do I need to pack for a cruise?

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Ultimate Cruise Packing Checklist

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

Read: What to Wear on a Cruise

• Socks/stockings
• Undershirts

Casual Attire

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

Formal Attire

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

Miscellaneous

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

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

Elissa Garay

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

Related Itineraries

Key West & Bahamas

• 3 nights ON CELEBRITY REFLECTION
• DEPARTING FROM FORT LAUDERDALE, FLORIDA
• Starting from $553 USD

Bahamas & Perfect Day

• 4 nights ON CELEBRITY REFLECTION
• Starting from $561 USD
• Starting from $613 USD
• Starting from $736 USD

Aruba, Bonaire & Curacao

• 8 nights ON CELEBRITY BEYOND
• Starting from $1494 USD

Bahamas Getaway

• Starting from $2189 USD

Related Articles

Accessible Travel Guide

Cruises for Seniors With Disabilities: Everything You Need to Know

How to Choose the Best Stateroom on a Cruise

The Complete Guide to Taking a Cruise With a Toddler

The Complete Guide to Dining Options on Celebrity Cruises

How to Prepare for Your First Cruise

Everything You Need to Know About Embarkation Day

Find Out if You Need a Passport to Go on a Cruise

9 Places to Go for New Year’s Eve to Ring in 2024

Port Vs. Starboard: What Side of the Ship Is Best?

What Is a Transatlantic Cruise?

Forward vs. Aft of a Ship: What’s the Difference?

Free Vacation Planning Services

CALL US 888-751-7804

Sign Up for Special Offers

• First Name *
• Last Name *
• Email Address *
• Country * Country Afghanistan Albania Algeria American Samoa Andorra Angola Antigua and Barbuda Argentina Armenia Australia Austria Azerbaijan Bahamas Bahrain Bangladesh Barbados Belarus Belgium Belize Benin Bermuda Bhutan Bolivia Bosnia and Herzegovina Botswana Brazil Brunei Bulgaria Burkina Faso Burundi Cambodia Cameroon Canada Cape Verde Cayman Islands Central African Republic Chad Chile China Colombia Comoros Congo, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Republic of the Costa Rica Côte d'Ivoire Croatia Cuba Curaçao Cyprus Czech Republic Denmark Djibouti Dominica Dominican Republic East Timor Ecuador Egypt El Salvador Equatorial Guinea Eritrea Estonia Ethiopia Faroe Islands Fiji Finland France French Polynesia Gabon Gambia Georgia Germany Ghana Greece Greenland Grenada Guam Guatemala Guinea Guinea-Bissau Guyana Haiti Honduras Hong Kong Hungary Iceland India Indonesia Iran Iraq Ireland Israel Italy Jamaica Japan Jordan Kazakhstan Kenya Kiribati North Korea South Korea Kosovo Kuwait Kyrgyzstan Laos Latvia Lebanon Lesotho Liberia Libya Liechtenstein Lithuania Luxembourg Macedonia Madagascar Malawi Malaysia Maldives Mali Malta Marshall Islands Mauritania Mauritius Mexico Micronesia Moldova Monaco Mongolia Montenegro Morocco Mozambique Myanmar Namibia Nauru Nepal Netherlands New Zealand Nicaragua Niger Nigeria Northern Mariana Islands Norway Oman Pakistan Palau Palestine, State of Panama Papua New Guinea Paraguay Peru Philippines Poland Portugal Puerto Rico Qatar Romania Russia Rwanda Saint Kitts and Nevis Saint Lucia Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Samoa San Marino Sao Tome and Principe Saudi Arabia Senegal Serbia Seychelles Sierra Leone Singapore Sint Maarten Slovakia Slovenia Solomon Islands Somalia South Africa Spain Sri Lanka Sudan Sudan, South Suriname Swaziland Sweden Switzerland Syria Taiwan Tajikistan Tanzania Thailand Togo Tonga Trinidad and Tobago Tunisia Turkey Turkmenistan Tuvalu Uganda Ukraine United Arab Emirates United Kingdom United States Uruguay Uzbekistan Vanuatu Vatican City Venezuela Vietnam Virgin Islands, British Virgin Islands, U.S. Yemen Zambia Zimbabwe

STAY IN THE KNOW

Thank you for subscribing.

See you on board soon.

sign up and keep track of your travel insurance events

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

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

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

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

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

See all of our cruise articles

Cruise Packing Checklist

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

See text version of the cruise packing list

Cruise Packing Tips

1. Pack by subtraction

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

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

Also read: Top 10 Cruise Tips and Hacks

2. Pack your carryon for the long haul

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

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

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

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

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

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

3. Pack like you’re going to a resort

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

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

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

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

4. Pack layers

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

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

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

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

5. Suck out all of the air

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

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

6. Go for the freebies

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

Also read: Tips for Going on a River Cruise

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

7. Cruise Packing Hacks

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

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

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

Cruise Packing List

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

Pack in Your Luggage

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

Pack in Your Carry-on

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

Also read:  Should You Buy The Cheapest Travel Insurance?

Cruise Travel Protection

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

Travel Resources

Average Customer Rating:

Thank you for visiting csatravelprotection.com

As part of the worldwide Generali Group we have rebranded our travel protection plans to Generali Global Assistance, offering the same quality travel insurance, emergency assistance and outstanding customer service as you've come to rely on for the last 25 years. Welcome to our new website!

Final step before you're signed up

Please verify that you're human.

Printable Cruise Packing List (75 Best Things to Pack)

By: Author Kim Tate

Posted on Published: April 14, 2022

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.

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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)

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.

You can get my cruise packing list delivered to your email by signing up for my newsletter in the box below. ↓↓↓↓

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!

Share and Save This Post:

Important Things to Pack for Your Disney Cruise - Packing List [Printable]

Thursday 9th of November 2023

[…] POSTS: Cruise Packing List Checklist, The Extras to Add to Your Family Cruise Packing List, Tips for First-Timers, and Are Disney […]

Sunday 21st of August 2022

Cruise packing list please.

Tuesday 6th of September 2022

I'm sorry you had trouble getting the pdf after signing up for my list. I just sent it to your inbox. Thanks! Kim

• Port Overview
• Transportation to the Port
• Uber & Lyft to the Port
• Dropping Off at the Port
• Cruise Parking
• Cruise Hotels
• Hotels with Parking Deals
• Uber & Lyft to the Ports
• Things to Do
• Cozumel Taxi Rates
• Free Things to Do
• Restaurants Near the Cruise Port
• Hotels & Resorts With Day Passes
• Closest Beaches to the Cruise Port
• Tips For Visiting
• Shore Excursions
• Cruise Parking Discounts
• Hotels with Shuttles
• Which Airport Should I Use?
• Transportation to the Ports
• Dropping Off at the Ports
• Fort Lauderdale Airport to Miami
• Inexpensive Hotels
• Hotels near the Port
• Hotels With Shuttles
• Budget Hotels
• Carnival Tips
• Drink Packages
• Specialty Restaurants
• Faster to the Fun
• More Articles
• CocoCay Tips
• Norwegian Tips
• Great Stirrup Cay
• Harvest Caye
• How to Get the Best Cruise Deal
• Best Time to Book a Cruise
• Best Websites to Book a Cruise
• Cruises Under $300
• Cruises Under $500
• Spring Break Cruise Deals
• Summer Cruise Deals
• Alaskan Cruise Deals
• 107 Cruise Secrets & Tips
• Tips for First-Time Cruisers
• What to Pack for a Cruise
• What to Pack (Alaska)
• Packing Checklist
• Cruising with Kids
• Passports & Birth Certificates
• Bringing Alcohol
• Cruising with a Disability
• Duty-Free Shopping
• Cruise Travel Insurance
• Things to Do on a Cruise Ship
• What Not to Do on a Ship
• News & Articles

Alaskan Cruise Packing Checklist: 80+ Things To Bring (Printable)

Need a checklist in order to pack for your cruise to Alaska? We have you covered.

Sailing to Alaska is like no other vacation. In fact, even if you’ve cruised before to somewhere like the Caribbean, what you pack to visit this region of the world can be very different.

That’s because Alaska presents more different situations that you’ll encounter than just about any other trip.

Consider that in the course of a day, you might wake up in the morning, and head to a hot tub in your swimsuit to take in the stunning views of Alaska. Then you might head back to the cabin to dress for a day that’s rainy and cool while you explore a port like Juneau.

That afternoon the weather could clear out, giving you a day that’s 75 degrees and sunny, meaning short sleeves and shorts are ideal. Back on the ship, it might be formal night, where you want to get dressed up for a nice evening around the ship.

And then there are all the other items to consider bringing, from binoculars to see wildlife to magnetic hooks that help you organize the cabin.

Remember, you can’t easily run out for something you forgot to pack, so having a full checklist to serve as a reminder of what to bring on an Alaska cruise is ideal. That’s why we’ve put together a printable list to help you plan. It has everything you need to consider bringing, all put into easy sections .

Note: This article contains links to Amazon. As an Amazon affiliate we earn a portion of each sale at no extra cost to you.

Download the Printable Alaskan Cruise Packing Checklist

Our checklist of things to pack for a cruise is completely free. While we cover all the items in detail below, you can click the image (or click this link ) to download the printable PDF.

Cruise Packing Checklist: Clothes

Clothing will make up the bulk of what you’ll bring on a cruise, and rightly so. With so many different scenarios to dress for when sailing to Alaska, just know that you’re going to want a little of everything.

We’ve constructed this list with the idea in mind of a typical 7-day round trip cruise. Remember that it’s ok if you wear the same thing twice on a cruise. For a 7-day cruise, having 3-4 outfits is a good idea.

Casual Clothes

• T-Shirts (at least one for every two days of your cruise)
• Shorts (at least one pair for your cruise)
• Long pants (at least 2-3 pairs)
• Long-sleeve shirts (great for adding layers)
• Swimsuit (At least one should you decide to hit the hot tub or heated pool)
• Light jacket or hoodie (this will be worn often)
• Rain jacket/poncho (rain jackets are ideal as they can keep you dry)
• Sleep clothes
• Athletic shorts (for hitting the gym)
• Flip-flops (won’t be worn much, but ideal for heading to the pool/hot tub)

Formal Clothes for Men

• Dress shirt
• Dress pants
• Dress shoes
• Blazer (optional, if you want to be more formal)
• Tie (optional)

Formal Clothes for Women

• Evening gown or cocktail dress
• Dress blouse
• Shoes/sandals

Cruise Packing Checklist: Items For the Cabin

Think you only need to pack things to wear? The following items are ideal for a cabin to make it more comfortable during your cruise. Don’t think you have to pack all of these items, but those that catch your interest should be brought along.

• Small fan (cabins don’t have fans to circulate air)
• Nightlight (interior cabins are especially dark)
• Magnetic hooks (to hang from the ceiling to dry swimsuits)
• Outlet adapter (to provide more outlet spaces in the cabin; those with surge protectors aren’t allowed)
• Shoe organizer (hangs over the door for storage of small items)
• Alarm clock (there’s no clock in the cabin)
• “ Poopouri ” or air freshener (bathroom smells can linger)

Cruise Packing Checklist: Personal Items

In addition to clothes, you need to pack a few other items with you to make your cruise to Alaska a success.

• Boarding documents
• Luggage tags
• Passport/birth certificate
• Emergency contact numbers
• Cash ( we’ve written about how much you need here )
• Backpack ( a light backpack is perfect for taking into port)
• Prescription medicines
• Over-the-counter medicines (headache, stomachache)
• Motion sickness pills/patches
• Ziploc bags (these bags have numerous uses)

Toiletries/Personal Care

• Cotton swabs
• Feminine products
• Hair straightener/curling iron
• Shampoo/conditioner
• Hair products
• Glasses/contact lenses
• Wet wipes (cabin toilet paper is thin, 1-ply product)

Cruise Packing Checklist: Kids Items

Cruises to Alaska don’t draw as many families as trips to the Caribbean but it’s certainly an awe-inspiring place for a family vacation. If you are packing for a family, then there are some things that good to bring. See our full list of ideas here .

Infants/Toddlers

• Silicone place mat
• Umbrella stroller
• A new toy (great for when kids are fussy and need a distraction)
• Bottles/water bottle
• Diapers and wipes

One thing to know is that cruise lines will provide a crib for sleeping in your cabin at no charge. Just let the staff know you need one.

• Handheld video games
• Playing cards
• Books/magazines

Cruise Packing Checklist: Other Items to Bring

While we’ve covered a number of things to pack for your cruise, there are some other miscellaneous items that are a good idea to bring when you sail to Alaska.

• Wine/champagne ( a bottle or two is allowed )
• Non-alcoholic drinks ( if allowed by your cruise line )
• Phone charger
• Lanyard (for holding your room keycard)
• Wrinkle-release spray
• Refillable bottle

Cruise Packing Checklist: Not Needed/Not Allowed

The following items may be tempting to bring, but cruise lines either take care of these for you or they aren’t allowed on the ship.

• Hair dryer (already provided in each cabin)
• Liquor/beer
• Homemade snacks (not allowed; pre-packaged snacks are ok)
• Towels (beach towels are supplied on the cruise)
• Clothes iron
• Weapons (including small knives and pepper spray)
• Marijuana (even if legal in Alaska)

Alaskan Cruise Packing Tips

Want some more tips on how to pack for a cruise to Alaska? Here are a few ideas that can better help you prepare when it comes to getting ready.

Luggage Rules Are Fairly Lenient (So Don’t Stress) We’ve talked about how you have to pack for a lot of different scenarios when sailing to Alaska on a cruise. The good news is that unlike traveling on a flight, cruise lines are very lenient on luggage. There are no fees for bringing luggage. There aren’t real limits on how much you can bring (within reason). Liquids are allowed in your bags, and there are even porters that will take your bags at the terminal and then they are delivered to your cabin.

In other words, yes, there is a lot to pack for, but it shouldn’t be a point of stress.

Remember the Flight When Packing While cruise lines are more relaxed in what you can bring, many people fly into port cities like Vancouver or Seattle to head to Alaska. Due to their location in the northwest, driving simply isn’t an option for many travelers.

In that case, you want to keep the flight in mind when packing. That means bringing less stuff to avoid baggage fees, being careful of liquid rules, and resisting the temptation to pack heavy suitcases as you’ll be carrying them around an airport.

Versatile Clothing Is Great Have a jacket that really only goes with one set of clothing? Leave it at home. Versatile clothing that can be worn in several different situations is ideal as it allows you to pack less. For example, instead of bringing one heavier coat in case it gets cold and windy, it’s a better idea to bring something lighter that can be worn with layers. This way you aren’t packing bulky items you’ll only wear once or twice. 

For more things to pack, don’t miss our 29 Must-Have Things to Pack for an Alaskan Cruise (11 You’d Never Think Of) .

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

Read next: park & cruise hotels for every port in america, popular: 107 best cruise tips, secrets, tricks, and freebies, related articles more from author, answered: how much cash should you take on a cruise, 44 must-have alaskan cruise tips, tricks, and secrets, cruise anxiety these facts may calm your biggest fears, how to get from the fort lauderdale airport (fll) to the miami cruise port, 41 must-have tips for cruising with babies, toddlers, or small kids (from someone that’s done it), complete guide to using your phone on a cruise (carnival, royal caribbean & more), leave a reply cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

47 Major Crimes Were Alleged on U.S. Cruise Ships in the First Three Months of 2024. Here’s What to Know

The best gift ever for people that love cruises this might be it…, nearly 100 passengers fall ill with stomach virus on princess cruise, hotels with cruise shuttles for every major port in america, 107 best cruise tips, tricks, secrets, and freebies, 39 useful things to pack for your cruise (including 17 you’d never think of).

• Privacy Policy
• Terms & Conditions

13 Important Things to Do Before Your Cruise (Free Checklist)

D o you have an upcoming cruise? Here are some important things you need to do to prepare yourself for your upcoming cruise. To make things easier for you, I’ve put together a checklist of things to do before your cruise, which you can download for free below. This checklist will help ensure that you have everything you need and are fully prepared for your cruise. 

1. Check Your Passport Expiration

It’s important to make sure that your passport is valid before you travel since many cruise lines have strict rules about expired passports. They won’t let you board the ship if your passport has expired or is due to expire within the next 6 months. 

This is also true if you’re traveling with a green card or alien resident card—you need to check that it has not expired or is about to expire soon. 

If you discover that your passport or card is expired, you should renew it as soon as possible. 

You can pay extra for an expedited passport renewal, but it may still take some time to process. If you can’t renew your passport in time, you may need to reschedule your cruise for a later date.

2. Online Check-In

Complete your online check-in before your cruise to make the check-in process on embarkation day faster and smoother. You can usually do your online check-in around 3 months before sailing date. 

For example, Carnival Cruise Line allows you to check in online 14 days before sailing. Another advantage of checking in as soon as possible is that you can reserve your embarkation time slot. Check out my cruise embarkation tips on how to board the ship faster. 

3. Sign Up for Cruise Notification

You should sign up for cruise notificationfor timely text alerts regarding changes affecting your cruise embarkation time. It is especially helpful during hurricane season when delays are more likely. With this service, cruise lines will keep you informed with up-to-date information.

4. Download the Cruise App

Don’t forget to download the cruise app before you board the ship. Nowadays, almost all cruise lines have an app that lets you book restaurants and activities, and check the daily schedule of events. 

But, you can’t make reservations until you’re on the ship. By downloading the app early, you’ll be all set to book your activities as soon as you’re on board, without wasting any time downloading the app. 

It’s typical for popular activities to sell out quickly, so it’s advantageous to download the app beforehand. That way, you can secure your spot and make sure you don’t miss out on your first-choice activities. 

5. Buy Cruise Extras

One important thing to do to prepare for your upcoming cruise is to buy cruise extras ahead of time. If you want to pay to skip the lines during embarkation day, I sugggest you buy the cruise VIP packages. Nowadays, many cruise lines offer VIP packages such as Carnival Cruise Line’s Faster to the Fun, Royal Caribbean International’s The Key, or Norwegian Cruise Line’s Priority Access. 

By doing so, you can pay to skip lines and enjoy priority boarding, direct access to guest services, priority tender boat boarding, and more. 

You can also buy Beverage packages online. This will allow you to start enjoying unlimited drinks the moment you board the ship and possibly enjoy a discount by buying your beverage package early. 

Plus, you can buy Wifi in advance as well as specialty dining packages so you’ll be all set when you get on the ship. 

6. Book Shore Excursions

One thing I recommend doing before boarding the ship is booking your shore excursions in advance. The most popular shore excursions tend to sell out quickly. 

Make sure you book your tours early so you get your first choice. It’s also a good idea to do your research and compare the prices offered by the cruise shore excursion with those of independent tour operators like Viator . 

You’ll often find that independent tour operators are cheaper, and they may even use the same tour operator as the cruise. The main difference is that the cruise offers a guarantee that you won’t miss the ship if you book your shore excursion with them. By researching and booking your shore excursions in advance, you will be able to get your top choices. 

Suburbs 101 participates in affiliate programs including Amazon Associates Program and may earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.

7. Check Travel Advisory

Many people forget to check the travel advisory before going on a cruise. They assume that all cruise ports are safe, but unfortunately, that’s not always the case. 

In fact, just recently, the US Department of State upgraded the travel advisory level for Bahamas and Jamaica . 

That’s why it’s important to check the travel advisory beforehand so you can be well-prepared and take necessary precautions (check out my anti-theft cruise port tips ).

8. Print Luggage Tags

Printing your luggage tags is a must before embarking on your cruise. These tags are important for checking in at the port. 

At the cruise ports, there will be porters waiting to take your check-in luggage to the ship. But without these tags, you’ll be in for a hassle and a delay at check-in. 

That’s why it’s important to print your tags beforehand and attach them to your luggage. This way, your luggage will be ready to go as soon as you arrive at the cruise port. I also always print extra luggage tags just in case.

Remember to always carry important medication and travel documents in your carry-on bag, and not in your checked luggage.

9. Book Your Hotel and Transfer

One of the most common mistakes cruisers make is arriving on the day of their trip and missing the ship. Don’t let this happen to you! 

To guarantee a smooth start to your cruise vacation, arrive at least a day early and stay overnight near the port. 

Make sure you book your hotel in advance and ask your hotel about booking a car service to the port. 

If not, you can also book private transportation from your hotel to the port on Viator. 

Don’t rely on taking a cab or Uber to the cruise port. Chances are you’re not the only cruise passenger staying at that hotel. There will be delays in getting taxis and Ubers to the port because of the surge in demand. 

10. Download E-Books and Movies

One thing that you should do in advance before your cruise is to download ebooks and movies at home. 

First, you don’t want to be downloading when you’re on the ship since the cruise Wifi may be limited and you are wasting your data limit by downloading on the ship. 

Also by downloading movies, ebooks and games in advance, you may not need the cruise Wifi since you can access them offline. It’s a smart move, so you have plenty of entertainment options at your fingertips throughout your voyage.

11. Shareholder Benefits

If you are a shareholder of the cruise line you’re planning to sail on, you could qualify for free onboard credit. You need to own a minimum number of shares and request the credit in advance. 

Depending on the cruise line and the duration of your voyage, shareholders can receive up to $250 of free onboard credit. However, some cruise lines, such as Royal Caribbean, offer even more, up to $1000 per sailing on world cruises.

For example, Norwegian Cruise offers shareholders $50 to $250 onboard credit per stateroom for cruises on Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises, or Regent Seven Seas Cruises. To be eligible for the onboard credit, you must own a minimum of 100 shares and submit your request 15 days before the voyage.

Carnival Cruise also offers $50 to $250 onboard credit to its shareholders. To qualify, you need to own at least 100 shares and request the credit no later than 14 days before the cruise departure date. Carnival cruise shareholder benefits also apply to Princess Cruise, Holland America, Seabourn, Cunard, and Costa Cruise sailings.

For more information on how to get free onboard credit on a cruise as a shareholder , check out my article.

12. Minor Consent Forms

If you’re traveling with a minor without their parents, then you need to fill out a minor travel consent form. For example, if you are cruising with your grandchild without the parents, you will be required to complete a Minor Travel Consent Form. Typically, this form must be notarized, and you can easily find it on the cruise line’s website.

13. Start Planning What to Pack

One of the things you need to do early is start planning what to pack. Packing for a cruise is not as simple as packing for a land vacation because you might be going to places with different weather and temperatures. 

There may be things you need to buy in advance that you don’t have so you want to make sure you have time to do that. 

To help you with your cruise packing, I have packing advice and free packing lists for Caribbean Cruises, Alaska Cruises, Mexico Cruises, Mediterranean Cruises and even British Isle Cruises. Also check out my cruise toiletry bag and first aid kit packing list. 

Free Things to Do Before Your Cruise Checklist

Do you want all this on a checklist? Download for free: Things to Do Before Your Cruise Checklist . 

25 Things People Forget to Pack for a Cruise

42 Banned Items you can’t take on a cruise

15 Caribbean Cruise Mistakes to Avoid

Alaska Cruise Mistakes to Avoid

8 Reasons Why Cruise Ship Beverage Packages are a Waste of Money

10 Shore Excursion Mistakes that Will Ruin Your Cruise Vacation

The post 13 Important Things to Do Before Your Cruise (Free Checklist) appeared first on Suburbs 101 .

Protect Your Trip »

The 13 best solo cruises for 2024 (no supplement fare).

Set sail for a solo adventure at sea.

The Best Solo Cruises

Getty Images

Relax by the pool, attend shows, dine with new friends and more on your next solo cruise.

Whether you're embarking on your first cruise alone or you've been on solo cruises before, single travelers will find more options than ever when it comes to cruising solo. Many cruise lines offer single staterooms with the same amenities as other cabins, at a price similar to what you'd pay with double occupancy fares. You'll also find special promotions where the single supplement fee is reduced or waived, making it more affordable to reserve a spacious stateroom or luxurious suite with even more amenities – including personalized butler service, an added perk of booking with many luxury lines .

If you're ready for a maritime adventure, an extended vacation or simply a quick getaway from home, these top cruise lines offer some of the best options for solo travelers on waterways around the world.

Lines with solo accommodations and waived fees

Norwegian cruise line.

Courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line

Launched in 2010, Norwegian Epic was the first cruise ship in the industry to feature studio accommodations for solo travelers. Norwegian Cruise Line offers this category on nine of the 19 ships in its fleet, including the newest ship, Norwegian Viva. These cabins, at an average size of 100 square feet, are designed and priced with the solo traveler in mind. They have no single supplements – and studio rooms on board Norwegian Bliss even boast virtual windows.

Guests of the studios get access to the private Studio Lounge. In this exclusive space, you can socialize with other solo travelers and enjoy complimentary refreshments. There are also singles meetups throughout the voyage and plenty of fun-filled onboard activities to mingle with like-minded cruisers. Solo travelers can check out all the fun for singles on Norwegian Viva this winter on a cruise to the Caribbean , or in spring 2024 as the ship sets sail for the Mediterranean .

Book a Norwegian Cruise Line voyage on GoToSea, a service of U.S. News.

MSC Cruises

Courtesy of MSC Cruises

MSC Cruises offers interior and balcony solo cabins for single cruisers on its Meraviglia-class ships: the MSC Meraviglia, Bellissima, Grandiosa, Virtuosa and the newest vessel in the fleet, MSC Euribia. The second-newest ship, MSC World Europa, has 28 cabins – 10 Studio Interior and 18 Studio Ocean View staterooms – designed specifically for solo travelers. MSC World America, set to debut in 2025, will also feature the solo studio staterooms.

During voyages with MSC Cruises , single cruisers are invited to a complimentary, hosted cocktail party to mix and mingle with other solo travelers. The daily program is also an excellent source to discover additional activities, entertainment and opportunities to meet other cruisers. You'll have onboard special events like the themed 70s-inspired Flower Party and the White Party, where the ship is decked out in festive white decor and guests don their best white attire. In addition, there are various sports tournaments, or you can show off your culinary expertise during a MasterChef competition.

MSC's Caribbean and Bahamas cruises departing from Miami and New York City feature an overnight visit to Ocean Cay, the line's private island and marine reserve. While there, singles can participate in fun-filled evening activities like a Champagne Sunset Cruise or a glow paddleboarding excursion in the lagoon, then attend the lively Luna Libre Party and the lighthouse show.

Find an MSC Cruises itinerary on GoToSea.

Holland America Line

Michel Verdure | Courtesy of Holland America Line

Three of Holland America Line's newest ships each offer 12 solo cabins to accommodate single travelers: the Pinnacle-class Nieuw Amsterdam, Rotterdam and Konigsdam. These ocean view staterooms range in size from 127 to 172 square feet and feature the same amenities as the double occupancy cabins but with a double bed. The cruise line's Single Staterooms are priced for one person. If a guest chooses to book a different stateroom, single supplements for double occupancy cabins are as much as 100% over the standard fare, depending on the voyage and the cabin category.

Long committed to solo travelers, the line offers many activities where guests can meet other singles such as wine tastings, cocktail mixers, exercise classes, daily quizzes, sports challenges and more. If you're a solo traveler and a member of AARP, Holland America is now the exclusive cruise benefit provider to AARP's members. Solo cruisers will have access to an AARP member-only onboard credit that ranges from $50 to $200, depending on the itinerary and stateroom category.

For itineraries, Holland America's Alaska cruises and cruisetours are perfect for solo travelers, offering many opportunities to connect with fellow cruisers. Another favorite for singles is the line's fall voyages sailing from Boston to Québec City or Montreal.

Explore Holland America Line deals on GoToSea.

Royal Caribbean International

Michel Verdure | Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

Royal Caribbean International features studio staterooms on select ships that range in size from 101 to 199 square feet. These solo accommodations include interior rooms, virtual balcony staterooms and a super studio ocean view stateroom with a balcony. The cabins do not carry the single supplement fee singles encounter when booking other types of staterooms, making them an attractive option when traveling alone.

Once on board the ship, solo cruisers will have countless options to engage and socialize with other travelers. When it comes to dining with Royal Caribbean , make a reservation at the Japanese restaurant Teppanyaki for an entertaining meal with new friends, or join fellow foodies for the intimate Chef's Table experience (the dining venues vary by ship). Singles can also participate in onboard activities like trivia contests, drink seminars, escape rooms, dance classes and pool parties.

If you need more thrills to stay busy and to meet people, Royal Caribbean's ships feature world-class shows and entertainment alongside adrenaline-pumping rides and attractions. If you're sailing in the Caribbean, there are plenty of opportunities to meet and chat with other passengers at the line's private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay.

Compare Royal Caribbean International cruises on GoToSea.

Atlas Ocean Voyages

Luxury line Atlas Ocean Voyages offers single cruisers 183 square feet of beautifully appointed space in solo accommodations that come without single supplement fees. These ocean view staterooms feature a queen bed, a panoramic picture window, a private spa bathroom with a rain shower and body jets, a stocked minifridge replenished daily with personal favorites, and other luxurious amenities. Single guests can also book other stateroom or suite categories with single supplements starting at 50% of the double occupancy price.

The line's three intimate yacht-style cruise ships – World Navigator, World Traveller and the new World Voyager, whose inaugural season begins in Antarctica in November 2023 – are all-inclusive . Meals at all the dining venues, premium beverages and wines, gratuities, culturally immersive excursions, and more are included in the fare. With fewer than 200 guests on board, there's an atmosphere of conviviality on these ships – especially when exploring remote destinations with like-minded and adventurous travelers during expeditions in Antarctica and the Arctic.

Read: The Top Cruises on Small Ships

Celebrity Cruises

Tim Aylen | Courtesy of Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity Cruises' new Edge-class ships offer some of the best options for solo cruisers. The line's two newest vessels, Celebrity Beyond and Celebrity Ascent (set to debut in late 2023), each boast 32 single staterooms with an Infinite Veranda. In addition, Celebrity Apex has 24 solo cabins, and Celebrity Edge features 16 staterooms for individual guests. These one-person accommodations offer a minimum of 131 square feet of space and the same upscale amenities you'll find in other category staterooms on their ships. Solo guests can look for special promotions where the single supplement is waived on select Celebrity voyages throughout the year.

Once on board the vessel, check out the daily program for activities conducive to meeting others – like wine tastings, cocktail-making classes and more. You'll also enjoy thrilling top-notch entertainment around the ship in The Theatre, The Club and Eden. A few popular cruises for singles are the line's Caribbean and Mexico itineraries on Celebrity Beyond.

Book a Celebrity Cruise on GoToSea.

Virgin Voyages

Courtesy of Virgin Voyages

The hip vibe on board the adults-only Virgin Voyages ships is ideal for solo cruisers looking to meet other travelers. Its superyacht-style ships – Scarlet Lady, Valiant Lady and Resilient Lady – offer 40 interior cabins ranging in size from 105 to 177 square feet. There are also six Sea View staterooms with portholes boasting between 130 to 190 square feet of space. These Insider and Sea View cabins are designed and priced for single travelers, with amenities like high-tech mood lighting and roomy rain showers. The line also runs promotions where solo cruisers can book double occupancy staterooms without paying a single supplement.

Activities and festival-like entertainment around the ships foster fast friendships. Diners will enjoy the interactive experience at Gunbae, the lively Korean barbecue venue. The "grog walk" is a fun pub stroll where solo sailors can join fellow mates while sipping and snacking their way through all the signature bars. For even more fun, check out the evening shipwide events such as the themed Scarlet Party, which features live music and immersive experiences. The line also hosts meetups for singles throughout each voyage.

Read: The Top Adults-Only Cruises

Avalon Waterways

Courtesy of Avalon Waterways

Avalon Waterways' river and small-ship cruises traverse waterways around the world, including in Europe, Asia, Africa and South America. The company waives the single supplement on a selection of staterooms, including its Panorama Suites, on select European and Asia departures. The company recommends booking early as the specially priced cabins do sell out. Solo travelers make up about 10% of the passengers on this river cruise line .

Avalon's fleet of Suite Ships operates in Europe and Southeast Asia and features cabins with a minimum of 172 square feet. About 80% of the staterooms are Panorama Suites, which have 200 feet of living space, beds with a view and the river cruise industry's only open-air balcony. With Avalon excursions, solo cruisers have opportunities to meet like-minded guests during immersive tours, cooking classes, wine tastings, yoga or fitness classes, biking or hiking trips, and more. Single guests can choose to dine at tables for just two people or ones that can accommodate up to eight passengers.

Read: Cruise Packing List: Essentials for Your Next Cruise

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks Newsletter

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

Sign up to receive the latest updates from U.S News & World Report and our trusted partners and sponsors. By clicking submit, you are agreeing to our Terms and Conditions & Privacy Policy .

AmaWaterways

Courtesy of AmaWaterways

Two single occupancy staterooms are available on four of AmaWaterways' river cruise ships: AmaDolce, AmaDante, AmaLyra and AmaCello. These accommodations do not have single supplement fees. Solo cruisers can also book staterooms with a 20% single supplement on select sailings in Europe and Southeast Asia. (Note that this pricing does not apply to certain stateroom categories and suites.)

With the friendly, small-ship atmosphere, solo cruisers will find it comfortable to socialize with other passengers and the crew. Onboard activities and immersive excursions also create opportunities for fostering friendships, especially among like-minded travelers. Excellent options for solo cruises include themed sailings centered around music and wine or the magical Christmas markets itineraries along the Danube, Rhone and Rhine rivers.

Explore AmaWaterways deals on GoToSea.

Lines with discounted supplement fares

Courtesy of Azamara

Azamara's special offers for solo travelers include reduced single supplements of 25% to 50% of the double occupancy rate on select sailings. The line's four midsized sister ships – carrying no more than 700 passengers – are mostly all-inclusive. Amenities included in the cruise fare include most meals; standard spirits, wines and beers; bottled water, soft drinks, and specialty teas and coffees; shuttle service in port; gratuities; and complimentary AzAmazing Evenings ashore or Destination Celebration experiences on the ship. Dining at the two specialty restaurants is an additional cost unless guests have accommodations in the Club World Owner's Suites, Club Ocean Suite or Club Continent Suite.

Single guests on Azamara cruises will find events during the sailing and venues around the ship where you can mix and mingle with other solo travelers and chat with the friendly crew. Intimate and culturally immersive excursions also create opportunities to meet passengers with similar interests. Azamara Onward, the latest ship, boasts the new Atlas Bar, a great spot to meet other travelers.

For itineraries, Azamara's signature "Country-Intensive Voyages" are a favorite of solo cruisers, including the 10- or 11-night Greece Intensive Voyage. For an extended sailing, check out the festive 12-night Carnival in Rio Voyage, which features a stop in Rio de Janeiro during the city's famed Carnival.

Compare Azamara cruises on GoToSea.

Cunard Line

Courtesy of Cunard Line

Cunard Line features dedicated solo staterooms on its three ships, priced at approximately 166% to 174% of the equivalent double occupancy cruise fare. Guests can choose between a spacious Britannia Inside or Britannia Oceanview cabin, or opt for a larger stateroom with a single supplement. For a little "me time" pampering while on board, solos will appreciate 24-hour room service, complimentary Penhaligon's toiletries and a chilled bottle of sparkling wine. Single guests will also be invited to get-togethers. You can either dine alone at venues around the ship such as the main dining room or choose to share a table with other passengers.

With an international mix of travelers, single cruisers will find many opportunities to meet and chat with others, especially during a Transatlantic Crossing. During the sailing, you'll find many enriching and relaxing activities that encourage socializing. According to Cunard , there's a sense of camaraderie and a passion around the voyage – and the unique travel experience of crossing the Atlantic Ocean.

Find a Cunard Line cruise on GoToSea.

Silversea Cruises

Courtesy of Silversea Cruises

Luxury line Silversea Cruises offers 25% single supplements on various voyages throughout the year, including expedition cruises to destinations like the Galápagos Islands , Antarctica and the Arctic, and Greenland. The line's all-inclusive fares include luxurious ocean view suites, gourmet dining, complimentary wines and spirits, gratuities, onboard enrichment and entertainment, shore excursions, and more. Solo travelers will even have personalized butler service to indulge their every whim.

The line's fleet of a dozen intimate ships, carrying no more than 728 guests, offers a clubby atmosphere perfect for meeting solo and like-minded travelers. Single guests will also have the opportunity to engage with other solo passengers during a welcome reception with Champagne at the beginning of each voyage. Popular itineraries for Silversea's single cruisers include its Transoceanic journeys, a bucket list trip for many cruisers .

Explore Silversea Cruises deals on GoToSea.

Courtesy of Seabourn Cruise Line

Seabourn has special offers throughout the year where solo cruisers can take advantage of reduced pricing equal to double occupancy fares or discounts on the single supplement starting at 25% above the double occupancy fares. These rates are available on select voyages, including expedition cruises. Frequent solo cruisers and members of the luxury line's Seabourn Club Diamond Elite will also find reduced single supplements on Diamond Elite Single Supplement Sailings. In addition, club members receive invitations to exclusive events, where they can meet and mingle with fellow cruisers. Solo passengers are also invited to sit with the ship's officers, crew and entertainers at dinner – and there are hosted get-togethers for single travelers.

Solo cruisers will enjoy beautifully designed oceanfront suites and all-inclusive amenities on board Seabourn 's intimate ships. These perks include world-class dining; complimentary premium wine and spirits; a spa and wellness program in partnership with Dr. Andrew Weil; included gratuities; and the line's enrichment series, Seabourn Conversations. Single cruisers looking for an extended holiday will enjoy longer voyages on the line's newest purpose-built expedition ship, Seabourn Pursuit.

Compare Seabourn cruises on GoToSea.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi has been an avid cruiser since her early 20s. She has visited destinations around the globe on nearly every type of ship built, including the newest megaships, luxury yachts, expedition vessels, traditional masted sailing ships and intimate river ships on the Mekong River. She used extensive research and experience as a solo cruiser to write this article. Pratesi covers the travel and culinary industries for major publications, including U.S. News & World Report.

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Party Cruises
• The Top Transatlantic Cruises
• The Top 3-Day Cruise Itineraries
• Solo Travel for Women: The Best Places and Tips
• The Best Cruise Insurance Plans

The Best Places to Travel Alone

Tags: Travel , Cruises

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

You May Also Like

Flight canceled or delayed what to do.

Amanda Norcross April 26, 2024

The Best Beach Hats

Megan Johnson and Sharael Kolberg April 26, 2024

The Best Florence Tours

John Rodwan April 25, 2024

The 9 Best Louisiana Swamp Tours of 2024

John Rodwan April 24, 2024

How Much Does a Cruise Cost?

Gwen Pratesi April 24, 2024

The Best Whale Watching in Cape Cod

Lyn Mettler April 24, 2024

Best Whale Watching Tours in Maine

Marisa Méndez April 23, 2024

The Best Wineries in Napa Valley

April 23, 2024

The Best East Coast Beaches

April 19, 2024

The Best Luggage Brands

Rachael Hood April 17, 2024

When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Details here .

Viking Vilhjalm Review: Festive Christmas Cruise on the Danube

Mimi Slawoff

Shortly after checking in at reception on the elegant Viking Viljhalm longship docked in Budapest, my daughter Christina and I were escorted to our stateroom. Our luggage arrived a few minutes later. Christina and I were excited to experience our first Viking river cruise as well as our first European Christmas markets.

The Viking Viljhalm sails along the Danube from Budapest, Hungary, to Passau, Germany, with port stops in Bratislava, Slovakia, and Vienna, Linz and Krems in Austria. For our Viking Danube Christmas Delights cruise, the Viljhalm was festively decorated for the holidays with garland, ornaments and a Christmas tree.

Since all fees are paid upfront (and we booked our shore excursions in advance), we enjoyed a relaxing and exciting week onboard Viking Viljhalm. The staff was friendly and the service was impeccable.

Viking’s all-inclusive fares cover one complimentary shore excursion, free beer, wine and soft drinks with onboard lunch and dinner, free wifi, port taxes and fees. Ground transfers are included with the purchase of Viking Air. Additional shore excursions, and pre- and post-cruise stays are available for purchase.

Read More: A Merry Viking River Cruise from Budapest

Viking Longships

The elegant Viking Viljhalm is among the river cruise company’s longships that sail in Europe. The 433-foot Viljhalm launched in 2016 and has the same design as the first longships that debuted in 2012. Reflecting Viking’s Norwegian heritage, these streamlined ships easily navigate the Danube and numerous locks – an exciting feature of a river cruise. The Viljhalm longship comfortably accommodates 190 guests and 53 crew members.

Like the other longships, the Viljhalm has four decks. The Main Deck (staterooms without balconies), Middle Deck (staterooms with balconies/verandas, restaurant, guest services and a shop), Upper Deck (staterooms with balconies, verandas, lounge, bar, Aquavit Terrace and library), and Sun Deck. There’s an elevator that travels from the Middle to Upper Deck.

The ship’s spacious public spaces and floor-to-ceiling windows and doors create a bright and airy environment for a scenic sailing experience. And a smooth and quiet sailing thanks to the ecologically friendly hybrid engines that produce less vibration.

Types of Staterooms

The Viljhalm’s 95 staterooms have private balconies and/or verandas and range in size from 135 square feet for a standard room to 445 square feet for an Explorer Suite.

We stayed in a Veranda Stateroom, which measures 205 square feet including the balcony with floor-to-ceiling windows. The beds in the staterooms feature plush king beds but can be configured for two twins, which is what we requested.

After we unpacked, utilizing ample dresser drawers and closets, we stowed our luggage under our beds to free up floor space. There was plenty of space for each of us to have our own side of the room to dress and primp for dinner.

Room amenities include a mini fridge, a flat-screen TV with an infotainment system featuring live TV channels, complimentary Movies on Demand and in-ship programming. Bottled water is replenished daily. While the bathroom was somewhat compact, it had premium bath amenities.

We enjoyed our balcony although our December sailing made it chilly to stay outside for long. However the floor-to-ceiling windows made it easy to watch the passing scenery from inside our room.

Read More: Corinthia Hotel Review: Luxury Stay Pre-Cruise in Budapest

Elegant Atrium

Located on the Main Deck, the spacious atrium has a reception desk, guest services and a small shop. It’s also where you check in and out for shore excursions.

Aquavit Terrace

Located at the bow, the indoor/outdoor Aquavit Terrace is a lovely space for a casual breakfast or lunch. Whether you sit indoors, which has floor-to-ceiling windows and doors, or outdoors on the terrace for al fresco dining, you’ll get great views of the passing scenery.

SheBuysTravel Tip: The Aquavit Terrace is one of the best places to watch the ship pass through locks.

Adjacent to the Aquavit Terrace is the Lounge, a spacious, inviting area with comfortable seating areas, a bar and a dance floor. During the day, people hang out reading a book or chatting with friends. It becomes more lively later in the evening when people gather for cocktails, port talks and after-dinner entertainment. Evening shows feature regional performers, sing-a-longs, trivia games, and music by Viljhalm’s onboard musician.

Main Restaurant

Meals are served in the main restaurant. Christina and I agreed the ship’s food was superb and exceeded our expectations. The menu features regional cuisine and chef specialties. For example, while in Austria, the chef’s tasting platter included pumpkin seed-crusted chicken thigh, braised beef, cheese-filled sausage, potato salad, dumplings, red cabbage and sauerkraut.

Throughout the week, there was a buffet and omelet station or you could order eggs, pancakes, French toast and other items from the menu. Lunch and dinner entrees included daily classic items (salads, cheeseburgers (including vegan), hot dogs, steak, etc) and regional dishes (goulash, soups, pasta, sausages, chicken paprikash, etc).

Complimentary beverages including beer and wine are served with meals. We upgraded to the Silver Spirits drink package ($25 per person, per day), which offers premium wine, champagne, cocktails and aperitifs.

On the ship’s Upper Deck, there’s a cozy library (with books and games) and two computers.

Although our Viking Veranda stateroom had a delightful private balcony, we often went up to the sun deck for spectacular 360-degree views. While cruising through Austria’s enchanting Wachau Valley, the ship’s program director pointed out castle ruins, vineyards, and charming towns.

The top deck has a walking track and lounge chairs.

Where does Viking Villhalm sail?

The ship sails from Budapest, Hungary to Passau, Germany, and from Passau to Budapest.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Announcing the Hot List Winners of 2024

By CNT Editors

It’s inevitable: Every spring when we pull together the Hot List , our annual collection of the world’s best new hotels, restaurants , and cruise ships , a staffer remarks that this latest iteration has got to be the best one ever. After a year’s worth of traveling the globe—to stay the night at a converted farmhouse in the middle of an olive grove outside Marrakech, or sail aboard a beloved cruise line’s inaugural Antarctic voyage—it’s easy to see why we get attached. But this year’s Hot List, our 28th edition, might really be the best one ever. It’s certainly our most diverse, featuring not only a hotel suite that was once Winston Churchill’s office, but also the world’s largest cruise ship and restaurants from Cape Town to Bali. We were surprised and inspired by this year’s honorees, and we know you will be too. These are the Hot List hotel winners for 2024.

Click here to see the entire Hot List for 2024 .

All listings featured in this story are independently selected by our editors. However, when you book something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

North Island Okavango

Angama Amboseli

Jannah Lamu

Farasha Farmhouse , Marrakech

Kozo Kigali

Waldorf Astoria Seychelles Platte Island — Seychelles

SOUTH AFRICA

Nikkei Cape Town

Molori Mashuma , Mana Pools National Park

Pemako Punakha

Regent Hong Kong

Mementos by ITC Hotels, Ekaaya Udaipur

Naar , Darwa

Papa's , Mumbai

Cap Karoso , Sumba

Further , Bali

Locavore NXT Bali

Le Pristine Tokyo

The Tokyo EDITION, Ginza

Trunk(Hotel) Yoyogi Park , Tokyo

Shinta Mani Mustang - A Bensley Collection , Jomsom

SOUTH KOREA

JW Marriott Jeju Resort & Spa

Pot Au Phở , Ho Chi Minh

Le Foote , Sydney

Southern Ocean Lodge , Kangaroo Island

Sun Ranch , Byron Bay

MIDDLE EAST

Raffles Al Areen Palace Bahrain

SAUDI ARABIA

Six Senses Southern Dunes , Umluj

The St. Regis Riyadh

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

The Guild , Dubai

SIRO One Za'abeel, Dubai

Soul Kitchen , Dubai

The Lana, Dorchester Collection , Dubai

Koan , Copenhagen

Hotel Maria , Helsinki

1 Place Vendôme , Paris

The Carlton Cannes, a Regent Hotel , Cannes

Datil , Paris

Hôtel Le Grand Mazarin , Paris

La Nauve Hôtel & Jardin , Cognac

Rosewood Munich

Mandarin Oriental, Costa Navarino

Monument , Athens

One&Only Aesthesis , Athens

Highland Base Kerlingarfjöll

Bulgari Hotel Roma , Rome

Trattoria del Ciumbia , Milan

Hotel La Palma , Capri

La Roqqa , Porto Ercole

Nolinski Venezia , Venice

Palazzo Roma , Rome

Saporium , Florence

Hotel Violino d’Oro , Venice

Mamula Island

NETHERLANDS

De Durgerdam , Amsterdam

Canalha , Lisbon

Andreu Genestra , Mallorca

Barro , Ávila

César Lanzarote , Lanzarote

Hotel Corazón , Mallorca

Grand Hotel Son Net , Mallorca

Palacio Arriluce , Getxo

Son Vell Menorca , Menorca

The Peninsula Istanbul

UNITED KINGDOM

Broadwick Soho , London

Chishuru , London

The Devonshire , London

Chelsea Townhouse, London

Estelle Manor , Cotswolds

Fish Shop , Ballater

Raffles London at The OWO

Colima 71 , Mexico City

Maizajo Mexico City

Maroma, A Belmond Hotel , Riviera Maya

Riviera Maya EDITION

The St. Regis Kanai Resort , Riviera Maya

SOUTH AMERICA

Casa Lucía , Buenos Aires

Trescha , Buenos Aires

Oseille , Rio de Janiero

99 Restaurante, Santiago

Our Habitas Atacama , San Pedro de Atacama

Puqio , Arequipa

THE CARIBBEAN

Silversands Beach House

UNITED STATES

The Celestine , New Orleans

Dawn Ranch , Sonoma, California

The Fifth Avenue Hotel , New York

Fontainebleau Las Vegas

The Georgian , Santa Monica, California

The Global Ambassador , Phoenix

Hotel Bardo, Savannah

Ilis , New York

Kiln , San Francisco

Kona Village, a Rosewood Resort , Kona, Hawaii

Maty's , Miami

Warren Street Hotel , New York

Yess , Los Angeles

World Voyager, Atlas Ocean Voyages

CRUISE SHIPS

Silver Nova , Silversea

Norwegian Viva

Seven Seas Grandeur , Regent Seven Seas Grandeur

Oceania Vista

World Voyager , Atlas Ocean Voyages

Scenic Eclipse II

Emerald Sakara

Celebrity Ascent

Seabourn Pursuit

Icon of the Seas , Royal Caribbean

MSC Euribia

Viking Aton

Resilient Lady , Virgin Voyages

This story appears in Condé Nast Traveler's Hot List issue. Never miss an issue when you subscribe to Condé Nast Traveler.

By signing up you agree to our User Agreement (including the class action waiver and arbitration provisions ), our Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement and to receive marketing and account-related emails from Traveller. You can unsubscribe at any time. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.