Cruise Packing Guide: What to Bring & What Not to Bring
Ahoy, future cruisers! Packing for a cruise is a different beast from a land trip. You’re packing for days of sun, seas, formal nights, excursions, and the occasional tropical rainstorm—with limited cabin space and a regime of shipboard rules. Here’s a guide to help you assemble the perfect pack, avoid overpacking, and actually use everything you bring.
What to pack for your cruise
The essentials (the non-negotiables)
- Passport, IDs, cruise documents: Keep them in a dry, secure wallet or pouch. Bring extra copies or digital backups.
- Cruise card and shore excursion confirmations: Either keep a photo on your phone or have a small cardholder.
- Credit cards, some cash in small bills for onboard tips or ports without ATMs.
- Travel insurance information: Policy number and emergency contact.
- Medicines and a small first-aid kit: Seasickness remedies (ginger mints, non-drowsy meds), pain relievers, seasick patches, bandaids.
- Phone, charger, power bank, and travel adapters (if needed for your destination).
- Lightweight water-resistant daypack for excursions.
- Basic toiletries: toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, shampoo, conditioner, sunscreen, lip balm with SPF.
Clothing that won’t kill your packing efficiency
- Layering is your friend: Ship climate control can swing from chilly at the promenade deck to tropical in ports.
- Lightweight tops and breathable fabrics (cotton, linen, moisture-wicking blends).
- Swimwear (at least two sets): One for pool days, one to dry while you wear the other.
- Cover-ups and a light cardigan for air-conditioned interiors.
- Dress codes: Many ships have casual days, some have formal or country-club nights. Pack a versatile outfit or two that can be dressed up or down.
- One lightweight jacket or windbreaker for breezy balconies or excursions.
- Comfortable walking shoes: Sneakers or sport sandals.
- Sandals or flip-flops for pool/deck areas.
- Optional: small, foldable tote for port-heavy days.
What to pack for different cruise experiences
- Formal/nice dinner nights: One or two dressier outfits (a dress or a smart polo with chinos). Don’t overdo it; many ships offer upscale evenings with smart-casual attire.
- Ports of call: A lightweight rain jacket for tropical showers; breathable trousers or shorts depending on weather.
- Onboard activities: Workout gear if you plan the gym or yoga sessions; athletic shoes with good support.
- Alcohol policy: Most ships don’t allow bringing alcohol on board; check your line’s policy. If allowed, keep it to a small quantity in checked luggage per policy and declare if required.
Items that save space and money
- Compression packing cubes or bags: Keeps clothes organized and compact.
- Travel-sized toiletries: Refillable bottles to save space and avoid bulk.
- Foldable tote or mesh bag: Useful for excursions, laundry days, or extra belongings.
- Reusable water bottle: Reduces plastic waste and keeps you hydrated.
- Laundry soap sheets or a small bottle for cabin laundry: Some ships offer laundry services for a fee; DIY options can save money on a short trip.
- Universal power strip or a USB hub (check ship’s electrical rules; some ships restrict multi-outlet devices).
What to not pack for your cruise
- Fire hazards and prohibited items: Candles, utensils with flame, incense, or any combustible items. Check your ship’s list for specifics.
- Heavy books or bulky gadgets you won’t use: E-readers and tablets can replace multiple books; avoid heavy physical copies.
- Large quantities of liquids: Ship security limits and cabin storage; travel-size bottles are safer.
- DIY electrical devices beyond basic needs: Some ships restrict curling irons, hot plates, or high-wattage appliances.
- Dangerous items: Dart boards, weapons, explosive devices, or certain climbing gear—ifs and buts for safety.
No extension cords
Smart packing tips (shipshape and ship-friendly)
- Check the ship’s policy: Each line has rules about dress codes, alcohol, shore days, and electronics.
- Use your cabin’s storage: Use under-bed storage, hangers, and the “overflow” closet. Roll or fold clothes by category to maximize space.
- Pack a small “quick grab” bag: For embarkation day and port days, include sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, water bottle, printed itinerary, and a snack.
- Carry-on essentials: If your luggage is delayed, you’ll want a fresh set of clothes, medications, and important documents in your carry-on.
Sample packing list for your cruise (quick reference)
- Documents: Passport/ID, cruise documents, travel insurance, copies.
- Wallet essentials: Cards, cash, emergency contacts.
- Electronics: Phone, charger, power bank, adapters, waterproof phone pouch.
- Medicine/health: Seasickness remedies, basic meds, bandages, all prescribed meds (in original bottles with labels).
- Toiletries: Toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, sunscreen, moisturizer, lip balm, feminine care products.
- Clothing: 3-4 tops, 2-3 bottoms, 2-3 dresses or smart outfits, 2 swimwear sets, 1 light jacket, 1 pair of comfortable walking shoes, sandals/flip-flops, socks/undergarments for every day or two, sleepwear.
- Accessories: Hat, sunglasses, small crossbody bag or waist pouch, belt, lightweight scarf.
- Extras: Rugged zip-lock bags for wet items, laundry bag, collapsible tote.
Start packing for your cruise
Packing for a cruise is all about versatility, smart layering, and maximizing cabin space. Prioritize a few flexible outfits, practical everyday items, and a streamlined carry-on strategy. With this guide, you’ll sail away with a well-curated kit, avoid overpacking, and actually enjoy unpacking your suitcase’s minimal contents when you reach your cabin.
Want me to tailor this to your specific itinerary (length, destination, and ship class)? Tell me your cruise line, duration, and the ports you’ll visit, and I’ll create a personalized packing list.
