packing list for week long cruise

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THE Cruise Packing Checklist: 85 Items To Bring (Printable)

Searching for a cruise packing checklist you can trust? Look no further. The staff at Cruzely has taken cruises from Miami to Vancouver, including trips done solo, as a couple, and with a family.

In other words, when it comes to packing for a cruise, nobody has the expertise — and the experience — that we do.

And if you think packing for a regular vacation can be daunting, then try packing for life on the ship.

What’s so challenging about cruise packing? Well, when you cruise you have some unique situations that you don’t find on any other vacation.

First, you have so many different scenarios to pack for . Sure you might think that it’s tossing some shorts and a swimsuit into a suitcase. On a cruise, however, you’re hanging out by the pool in a swimsuit, dressing up for dinner, wearing casual clothes to the buffet, and putting on something warm for a show in the theater.

In other words, you need to pack for a lot of different situations.

Second, in the middle of the ocean it’s tough to run out for anything that you forgot . Yes, you can wait until you get to port to pick up things you meant to bring, but that’s not always convenient. And while the ship will have some sort of small shop you can purchase things you forgot, these spots are notorious for being expensive for basic items (seriously, we’ve seen an $18 bottle of cold medicine).

That’s why we’ve put together this packing checklist for your next cruise. It covers everything that you might need to bring, all broken down into easy sections. It’s not saying you have to bring everything on the list, but it offers up a lot of ideas that you’ll want to consider.

Note: This article contains links to Amazon. As an Amazon affiliate we earn a portion of each sale at no extra cost to you.

Download the Printable Checklist

Our checklist of things to pack for a cruise is completely free. While we cover all the items in detail below, you can click the image (or click this link ) to download the printable PDF.

While many items on the list are self-explanatory, we go into more detail below about what’s included on the checklist for your cruise.

Cruise Packing Checklist: Clothes

Clothing will make up the bulk of what you’ll bring on a cruise, and rightly so. With so many different scenarios to dress for on a cruise, it’s helpful to bring a little bit of everything.

Of course, how much you’ll bring depends on how many days you’ll be at sea. Shorter cruises obviously require fewer items. Also, it’s ok if you wear the same thing twice on a cruise. For a 7-day cruise, having 3-4 outfits is a good idea.

Casual Clothes

• T-Shirts (at least one for every two days of your cruise)
• Shorts (at least one pair for every two days of your cruise)
• Long pants (at least one pair for nights on the ship)
• Long-sleeve shirt (at least one for nights on the ship)
• Swimsuit (At least two, so that one can dry when you wear the other)
• Swimsuit cover-up
• Light jacket or hoodie (evenings on the ship can be cool)
• Sleep clothes
• Athletic shorts
• Flip-flops (be sure they have tread; wet decks can be slippery)

Formal Clothes for Men

• Dress shirt
• Dress pants
• Dress shoes
• Blazer (optional, if you want to be more formal)
• Tie (optional)

Formal Clothes for Women

• Evening gown or cocktail dress
• Dress blouse
• Shoes/sandals
• Jewelry/accessories

Cruise Packing Checklist: Items For the Cabin

Think you only need to pack things to wear? The following items are ideal for a cabin to make it more comfortable during your cruise. Don’t think you have to pack all of these items, but those that catch your interest should be brought along.

• Small fan (cabins don’t have fans to circulate air)
• Nightlight (interior cabins are especially dark)
• Magnetic hooks (to hang from the ceiling to dry swimsuits)
• Outlet adapter (to provide more outlet spaces in the cabin; those with surge protectors aren’t allowed)
• Shoe organizer (hangs over the door for storage of small items)
• Alarm clock (alarm on the phone is just fine)
• “ Poopouri ” (bathroom smells can linger)

Cruise Packing Checklist: Personal Items

In addition to clothes, you need to pack a few other items with you to make your cruise go smoothly. This includes everything from your boarding documents to your toothbrush.

• Boarding documents
• Luggage tags
• Passport/birth certificate
• Copy of passport/birth certificate (carry a copy of your passport with you in port; keep the original in the cabin safe)
• Emergency contact numbers
• Cash ( we’ve written about how much you need here )
• Backpack ( a light backpack is perfect for taking into port)
• Prescription medicines
• Over-the-counter medicines (headache, stomachache)
• Motion sickness pills/patches
• Phone charger
• Waterproof phone case
• Ziploc bags (these bags have numerous uses)

Toiletries/Personal Care

• Cotton swabs
• Feminine products
• Hair straightener/curling iron
• Shampoo/conditioner
• Hair products
• Glasses/contact lenses
• Wet wipes (cabin toilet paper is thin, 1-ply product; do not flush wipes)

Cruise Packing Checklist: Kids Items

Obviously not everyone packs for a cruise with kids. But if you are packing for a family, then there are some things that good to bring. See our full list of ideas here .

Infants/Toddlers

• Silicone place mat
• Umbrella stroller
• A new toy (great for when kids are fussy and need a distraction)
• Swim diapers
• Bottles/water bottle
• Diapers and wipes

One thing to know is that cruise lines will provide a crib for sleeping in your cabin at no charge. Just let the staff know you need one.

• Handheld video games
• Playing cards
• Snorkel gear
• Water shoes

Cruise Packing Checklist: Other Items to Bring

While we’ve covered a number of things to pack for your cruise, there are some other miscellaneous items that are a good idea to bring.

• Wine/champagne ( a bottle or two is allowed )
• Non-alcoholic drinks ( if allowed by your cruise line )
• Towel clips
• Wristwatch (set to the ship’s time when leaving for port)
• Lanyard (for holding your room keycard)
• Books/magazines
• Wrinkle-release spray
• Refillable bottle

Cruise Packing Checklist: Not Needed/Not Allowed

The following items may be tempting to bring, but cruise lines either take care of these for you or they aren’t allowed on the ship.

• Hair dryer (already provided in each cabin)
• Liquor/beer
• Homemade snacks (not allowed; pre-packaged snacks are ok)
• Towels (beach towels are supplied on the cruise)
• Clothing iron
• Weapons (including small knives and pepper spray)

Cruise Packing Tips: Beyond the Checklist

As we’ve mentioned, packing for a cruise is a little different than any other vacation. While you need to prepare for lots of different situations — everything from hanging out by the pool to formal night — we actually think it can be easier to pack for a cruise than other trips. That’s because the rules for packing are more relaxed than if you are flying for a vacation.

Luggage Rules Are Fairly Simple Want to bring a large suitcase? Or two large suitcases? Or two carry-ons and several large bags? It’s all ok. The luggage rules surrounding cruises are nothing like you’ll find with airlines. Cruises don’t charge for luggage and there are no weight limits (within reason) .

In short, you can bring as much as you want. That’s one less thing to worry about when packing for your cruise and very convenient for passengers who are driving to the port.

Remember You Have to Carry Everything to the Ship While the rules surrounding luggage mean you can bring as much as you want, remember that whatever you bring, you will have to get it to and from the port. So if you are flying to the cruise port, then you’ll have to pay any baggage fees your airline might charge. You also have to carry your bags to the terminal to drop off for the luggage handlers.

Instead, keeping your bags manageable will save you a lot of hassle when you head to the ship.

Liquids Are OK Another way cruise packing is easier is that there aren’t rules regarding liquid sizes. You likely know that airlines limit you to three ounces of liquids to get through security. There are no such limits with cruise security .

So if you have a bottle of your favorite shampoo you want to bring or simply have an 8-ounce bottle of sunscreen, go ahead and pack it. There is no need to put it into smaller travel-sized containers.

Keep Anything for the First Day in Your Carry-On You don’t have to check any bags at the port if you don’t want. If you can carry it with you to your cabin, you are welcome to take it aboard. Still, many people choose to check larger or heavier bags instead of carrying those by themselves. It’s just easier. These bags are then delivered to your room later in the afternoon or evening.

If you check a bag, be sure to bring a carry-on that has anything in it you might need for the first day. So you’ll want a change of clothes, swimsuit, toiletries, boarding documents, and any valuables. If you bring on wine or champagne, also pack it in your carry-on so that it doesn’t accidentally get broken.

For more things to pack, don’t miss our 39 Useful Things to Pack for a Cruise (Including 17 You Might Not Think Of) .

Popular: 39 Useful Things to Pack (17 You Wouldn't Think Of)

Read next: park & cruise hotels for every port in america, popular: 107 best cruise tips, secrets, tricks, and freebies.

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11 smart things to pack for your cruise cabin, 39 useful things to pack for your cruise (including 17 you’d never think of), luggage and baggage rules for taking a cruise (how much can i bring), bringing water or soda on a cruise ship (carnival, royal caribbean, norwegian, and more), 25+ must-have cruise packing tips, 9 unexpected things you didn’t know you could bring on a cruise, 10 comments.

Thank you – this was very helpful – much appreciated!!!

That’s very good information 👌

Great list – getting ready for a cruise in May. Question, can you bring two bottles of wine or just one. Thanks for the tips.

Depends on the cruise line. In general, however, if you are traveling with two adults, you can bring two bottles of wine.

Thank you so much! This is a super helpful list!

quit telling people to bring wipes! THEY ARE NOT FLUSHABLE AND WILL CLOG THE SYSTEM AND FLOOD.

Nobody said to flush them. You place them in the trash.

Very useful tips for someone (like me) going on their first cruise.

This information was very helpful.

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Cruise packing list: 56 essentials chosen by experts.

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

Essentials to Pack for a Cruise

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

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

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

Find your perfect cruise

Carry-on bag

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

Checked bag

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

Garment bag

Courtesy of Halfday

While many cruises are less formal these days, a garment bag can still be handy for keeping select garments wrinkle-free (since clothing irons are prohibited on cruise ships). Top-rated options include the The Garment Duffel by Halfday and the Briggs and Riley Baseline 22" Carry-On 2-Wheel Garment Bag , both of which double as traditional luggage. If you pack your luggage right, you can make this your only suitcase, in addition to a carry-on bag.

Packing cubes or vacuum-sealed bags

Packing cubes are one of the best ways to organize your belongings for travel – especially in a tight cruise ship cabin. Top-rated options include the Veken packing cubes on Amazon (usually priced around $20) and all of the Pack-It Sets by Eagle Creek. The Pack-It Starter Set is especially ideal for cruising since it includes a garment folder designed to minimize wrinkles in clothing. Some cruisers also swear by vacuum-sealed bags , even though they can be a bit more tedious to pack.

Carry-on caddy

Ashley Kosciolek, senior cruise writer at The Points Guy, recommends a carry-on caddy , particularly if you're flying to your embarkation point. "I have a fabric sleeve that slides down over the telescoping handle on my carry-on to provide pockets for my passport, phone, coffee – all the things I used to have to juggle during check-in."

Digital luggage scale

The compact Etekcity scale – approximately $10 on Amazon – can weigh bags up to 110 pounds and help you avoid overweight baggage fees. You can often find these scales at your local Marshalls and HomeGoods stores too.

Bungee cord

"Especially for travelling with the family, I use a bright-green bungee cord to strap multiple pieces of luggage together," says Aaron Saunders, senior editor at Cruise Critic. "It's a lifesaver when boarding trains or disembarking ships, particularly when you ' re maneuvering a stroller and a little one around, too."

Luggage tracker

Courtesy of Apple

A luggage tracker isn't just useful for air travel. Attach one to your checked cruise luggage to see when it has arrived in your stateroom (or if it's stalled at security). Chris Gray Faust, executive editor at Cruise Critic, doesn't go anywhere without her Apple AirTag after her luggage got stuck in Vancouver for over a week last June. "My AirTag use has expanded beyond my checked luggage, too. I also have AirTags in my handbag, my carry-on, my keychain and my wallet."

Cruise insurance

Due to the unpredictable nature of travel, cruise insurance can be a wise purchase ahead of your voyage. Travel policies can cover unforeseen expenses such as trip interruptions and medical emergencies.

While a passport is often required for cruising, rules can vary depending where you're traveling. Determine whether you need a passport for your upcoming cruise ; if you do, triple-check that you have it packed the day of departure.

Credit cards and local currency

When cruising internationally, consider getting small amounts of each country's currency to have on hand in port. Depending where you go, some local markets may only accept their own country's currency, not U.S. dollars or credit cards. It's also nice to leave cash gratuities for cab drivers, tour guides or servers; in the European Union, 1- and 2-euro coins are convenient and appropriate tips. In ports with vendors that do accept credit cards, be sure to carry a Visa or Mastercard , as some shops and restaurants do not take American Express .

RFID wallet

It's important to protect your travel documents with an RFID wallet like the TIGARI Passport Holder or the ZOPPEN RFID Travel Passport Wallet , the latter of which can hold multiple passports for a family. "Thieves and hackers can steal your credit card information just by using skimming devices," explains Jill Schildhouse, a cruise expert and U.S. News contributor who always travels with her RFID wallet. "And because your wallet wasn't even touched, you won't know it happened until you see your credit card statement."

Medications

Pack more than enough of your prescription medications as well as any over-the-counter medicines you'll need, just in case you encounter an itinerary change or travel delay. While some travelers find it easiest to bring personal medicines in their prescription bottles, others find travel pill boxes to be especially helpful for organization. The Sukuos Weekly Pill Organizer is a well-rated option, with detachable boxes for each day as well as compartments for morning and evening medications.

Sheet masks

Since flying can be so drying for the skin, Faust likes to use sheet masks. "My first step the night before I board (because you should always fly in a day early) is to hydrate with a sheet mask (usually from a Korean brand like Ballon Blanc or FaceTory )," she says. "If I'm meeting up with a friend, I bring an extra sheet mask so our trip starts out feeling a bit like a spa day!"

Magnetic hooks

A surprising fact: Cruise ship cabin walls are made of metal, which means you can optimize your storage space by hanging some of your belongings on magnetic wall hooks. The hooks are perfect for holding bulky coats or boots if you're traveling to a colder climate. You can also use them for wet gear on expedition ships and adventure cruises, or for drying out bathing suits after days at the beach or pool. Purchase a set of magnetic hooks for less than $10 on Amazon.

Like hotels, cruise ships can only provide so many hangers. Bring a few extras from home or pick up a pack from your local dollar store. You might also try packable hangers .

Wrinkle release spray

Whether or not you bring a garment bag, a travel-size bottle of wrinkle release spray, such as Downy Wrinkle Releaser spray , is useful to have on board. If you combine a spritz or two with the steam from your shower, you should be able to smooth out some of the wrinkles in your clothing.

Laundry detergent

"If you don't want to pay for laundry service or spend precious time in the self-service laundry room, bring a small bottle of laundry detergent like Woolite to wash key items in the sink: underwear, bras, quick-dry hiking shorts, bathing suits, etc.," recommends Schildhouse. "Every cruise ship shower has a retractable clothesline you can extend to drape the clothes over while they dry. This can also help cut down on the number of items you need to pack."

Over-the-door organizers

Over-the-door organizers with clear or mesh pockets allow you to find your feminine hygiene products, makeup, jewelry and other small items quickly – without having to hunt through multiple drawers or a tight stateroom closet. It's a good idea to purchase a two-pack like this option by Simple Houseware Store (available on Amazon), since you can also use one to store shoes and maximize floor space.

Courtesy of Poo-Pourri

It goes without saying, but to say it anyway: A toilet spray like Poo-Pourri is a must for your cruise packing list. Any smell – pleasant or not – will travel quickly in small staterooms with small bathrooms. Buy a travel-size bottle to keep in your cabin.

Shampoo and conditioner

Cruise experts agree it's best to bring your own shampoo and conditioner in travel-size bottles, as most cruise ships don't provide separate shampoo and conditioner anymore; instead, they offer all-in-one dispensers. Colleen McDaniel, editor-in-chief at Cruise Critic, likes to pack her shampoo and conditioner in the popular Cadence Capsules , noting she also uses them for another essential: sunscreen. "These capsules are easy to fill, never leak and have clear labels, which you can customize," she says.

Wine or Champagne

Most major cruise lines allow each guest to bring one to two bottles of wine or Champagne on board, while some luxury cruise lines allow even more than that. Disney Cruise Line also gives guests the option to bring a six-pack of beer instead of wine or Champagne. Be sure to consult your cruise line's policies when packing for your trip.

If you plan to bring wine or Champagne, you'll likely need a corkscrew . While some cruise lines may prohibit corkscrews, others allow them on board; check your cruise line's policy before sailing. Bringing wine with a twistable cap may be a good alternative.

Portable humidifier

Cruise ship cabins can feel dry – especially in the colder months. A portable humidifier like the GENIANI Erie (around $25 on Amazon) can provide some relief. At about half a pound, this USB-powered device will fit neatly into your checked bag or carry-on luggage. The travel humidifier features two mist settings and has an automatic shut-off option, plus a night light to help you see around your cabin in the dark.

International travel adapter or converter

You'll likely need a travel adapter, since cruise lines homeported in international locales may have different electrical sockets and voltage strengths than you're used to in the U.S.

McDaniel recommends the OneWorld65 Travel Adapter . "I've used a lot of different travel adapters over the years, but this is my favorite. It charges up to six devices at once, has USB and mini-USB options, and works in over 200 countries," she says. "While many cruise ships have U.S. outlets, most usually also have European outlets. This adapter lets me take advantage of that outlet I'd otherwise ignore." She also notes that while cruise lines are getting better about having more outlets on their ships, it never feels like enough to keep your phone, camera battery, tablet, watch, headphones/earbuds and laptop charged (times two or more if you're traveling with others).

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Sound machine

Cruise experts agree a sound machine can be helpful for blocking out the sound of late-night partiers returning to their staterooms (or your snoring spouse). Schildhouse likes the LectroFan Micro 2 for cruising. "It plays non-looping white noise and doubles as a speaker to play tunes while you get ready for dinner."

Tech organizer

Courtesy of Bagsmart

A tech organizer like the BAGSMART electronics organizer case – available on Amazon for about $20 – can store all your cables, plugs, SD cards and earphones in one zippered, compact bag that will fit easily in your carry-on luggage. Despite its small size, it can also hold bulkier items like a small laptop charging cord.

First-aid kit

A first-aid kit is a good thing to have on hand no matter where you go. You can make your own using supplies you already have at home, or buy a premade first-aid kit on Amazon for about $20. While all cruise ships have medical facilities, it's useful to have these items with you on shore excursions, especially those involving active adventures.

Hand sanitizer

Regularly washing your hands and/or using hand sanitizer is essential to staying healthy while traveling, especially on a cruise ship. Stock up on a few travel-size bottles of hand sanitizer (less than $2 each at Walmart) ahead of your trip. If you're looking for something with less alcohol that's also less drying, check out Babyganics Alcohol-Free Foaming Hand Sanitizer .

If you're a parent, you know that your infant or toddler needs a very specific size – and in some cases brand – of diapers, which may very well be unavailable to you on your cruise ship or in the ports of call. Bring more than enough diapers to play it safe at sea.

Most cruise lines also require that non-toilet-trained infants and toddlers wear swim diapers in the children's water play areas. For the sake of sanitation, kids must be toilet-trained to use the pools on cruise ships.

Many cruisers like to personalize their cabin with stateroom door decor. Not only is it a fun tradition, but decorating the door can make it easier to locate your room, too. You can find lots of fun decor ideas on Pinterest as well as Amazon.

" Duct tape is a life-saver in many situations," says Kosciolek. "I primarily use it to attach my printed luggage tags, but it's also great for mending clothing issues on the fly and fixing broken luggage until you can get it back home."

"As a parent, I like to bring lanyards with sleeves so my kids can wear their keycards and not lose them," says Erica Silverstein, senior cruise editor at The Points Guy. "We hang them on the magnetic hooks I put on the wall, so they don't get lost in the cabin either."

Courtesy of Sea-Band

If you're prone to (or think you may be prone to) motion sickness on cruise ships, put a pair of Sea-Bands on your cruise packing list. These soft wristbands use acupressure to prevent and minimize nausea and vomiting on board, and they are a reusable, drug-free alternative to traditional anti-nausea medications. You can purchase Sea-Bands on Amazon or at most drugstores.

If you need something a bit stronger than Sea-Bands (or to use in conjunction with them), Dramamine remains a tried-and-true solution for both preventing and treating sea sickness. Choose the Less Drowsy formula to avoid getting sleepy, and consider the chewable tablets (dye-free) if traveling with kids who are prone to queasiness. Many travelers like Bonine as a remedy for sea sickness as well.

Mix-and-match clothing

Pack a variety of mix-and-match items, also known as a capsule wardrobe, for your cruise. To do this, choose a base color – black or navy blue – for your wardrobe. Next, pack plain, neutral-colored items, then add a few patterned items to the mix. Remember to include a variety of styles (T-shirts, long-sleeved shirts, pants, shorts, dresses, rompers and jumpsuits) and also consider reversible clothing and outfits that can easily transition from day to night.

Sports jacket or blazer

Adam Coulter, executive editor of Cruise Critic UK and Australia, recommends packing a sports jacket or blazer. "While cruise lines are getting more casual, what happens if you get that last-minute invite to meet the captain, or there's a meet and mingle where you want to look put together? A jacket will always elevate your elegance (even if you're wearing a T-shirt underneath)," he says. If you're in need of a travel blazer, Bluffworks has some well-rated options; the Gramercy , in particular, gets great reviews.

Themed party attire

Some cruise lines host themed voyages or parties on select nights where passengers can dress up to participate in the fun. You'll want to review your cruise itinerary before you go so you're prepared for the festivities. Bring your buccaneer gear if you're sailing aboard Disney Cruise Line; ships host fun events like Pirate Nights, pirate-themed dinners and a "Pirates in the Caribbean" show. On "The Love Boat"-themed cruises offered by Princess Cruises , pack your platform boots, glittery dresses, bell-bottom pants and halter tops for the line's 1970s-inspired disco party on the deck. No matter the theme, you can't go wrong with a couple of cruise captain hats .

Travel wrap

A travel wrap is a versatile accessory that's useful for any trip – even more so on a cruise ship where it can get chilly when the sea breeze picks up. Available in nearly 10 different colors, J.Crew's Oversized Cashmere Wrap is a timeless staple, albeit a bit of an investment; for something less expensive but well rated, try this off-brand pashmina shawl on Amazon .

Packable jacket

Courtesy of Patagonia

If you're cruising to a cold weather destination such as Alaska, you'll need something heavier than a travel wrap, but not so bulky that it requires additional luggage. Consider a packable jacket that folds easily and compactly; travel experts highly recommend the Patagonia Nano Puff Jacket .

Packable hat

If you're headed to the Caribbean or another warm weather destination, you'll want a beach hat to protect your scalp and face from the sun. This packable straw hat by FURTALK (available on Amazon for about $25) is a stylish women's option that features a broader brim and offers UPF 50 sun protection.

Comfortable walking shoes

Courtesy of Allbirds

Even if you never step foot off the ship, there is still plenty of walking to do between bow and stern. Closed-toe shoes or sandals with straps are safer than flimsy flip-flops when boarding a slippery tender into port (if your ship can't dock directly). Check out our recommendations for the most comfortable walking shoes , which include the popular Allbirds Wool Runners and the ECCO Yucatan Sandals .

Water shoes

Depending on your scheduled shore excursions, you might also need a pair of water shoes. For something that's both functional and fashionable, Crocs' Classic Clogs are a good option. While not totally waterproof, the Native Jefferson is a water-friendly, versatile option.

Versatile heels

"Over the years, I've learned that the key to avoiding overpacking is to bring one neutral pair of low heels that match every single eveningwear outfit I've packed – from flowy pants to dresses," says Schildhouse. The Naturalizer Bristol Sandal is an ideal choice, with a cushioned footbed, a 2.5-inch heel, and great reviews. It's also available in a variety of colors.

Reusable water bottle

A reusable water bottle is useful for filling up at water and beverage stations on your cruise ship; it's also a necessity for shore excursions.

Bathing suit

Pack a couple of swimsuits for the pools, hot tubs and any shore excursions.

Swim cover-up

Another must-have for your cruise packing list is a swimsuit cover-up or two. These are great for wearing over your bathing suit during days at sea, as well as on excursions – especially if you're going on a Caribbean cruise . Amazon sells a variety of stylish, affordable cover-ups, and you can never go wrong with a classic white button-down shirt .

Dry bags are useful for shore excursions where you're likely to get wet but don't want the same to be true for your phone, camera and other precious items. "I use the Outdoor Research Unisex Dry Isolation Pack   and have never had so much as a drop of moisture enter it, which is important for me – it keeps my cameras, documents and important items from getting wet," says Saunders, adding that it functions as a great everyday backpack when it's not raining.

If you need more than one dry bag, cruise expert Brittany Chrusciel recommends the Sea to Summit Lightweight Dry Bag Set . "Having these dry bags, in a variety of sizes, means I can bring all my gear along during a Zodiac cruise or snorkeling excursion without having to worry about it getting wet."

Waterproof phone case

A waterproof phone case is also essential, especially if you plan to take photos. The Hiearcool Waterproof Phone Pouches (available in a two-pack) come with a lanyard so you can both protect your phone and wear it around your neck. They are compatible with most smartphones.

"I like to bring collapsible pails, small shovels , inflatable beach toys, a floppy Frisbee or other things to entertain the kids on the beach if we're going to a private island or beach destination," says Silverstein. "If you can inflate your own inner tube, you don't need to rent a floating mat."

Beach towel

"Although cruise lines provide guests with towels to take off the ship on excursions, they are often bulky and sometimes small," explains Chrusciel. "The Surfer Towel folds up to nearly nothing, so it takes up almost no room in your suitcase and is super convenient to pack in a day bag. What's more, its quick-drying technology means that the lightweight fabric won't be soaking wet when you need to pack up for the day and head back to the ship."

Towel clips

"Even though giant plastic towel clips shaped like a flamingo are a bit cringey, they make it easy to find your spot in a sea of sun loungers," says Chrusciel. "They also solve a common cruise problem: keeping your towel securely fixed to your chair while reading or sunbathing."

Reef-safe sunscreen

Courtesy of Badger

When choosing a sunscreen, look for something that's reef-safe; not only are these sunscreens safer for the environment, but they're also better for you . The active ingredients in reef-safe sunscreens, also known as mineral sunscreens, are zinc oxide, titanium dioxide or a combination of both. Top-rated mineral sunscreen brands include Think , Badger and Raw Elements , all of which also sell lip balm with sunscreen (another essential at sea).

After-sun lotion

You'll want an extra dose of moisturizer if you've been basking in the sun. COOLA makes an after-sun body lotion that cools and hydrates the skin with aloe vera, agave and lavender oil. Previous buyers rave about this lotion, noting they appreciate that the scent isn't overpowering.

A good book

Sea days are the perfect time to kick back and relax with a book you've been meaning to read. Find an oceanfront lounge chair in a shaded area on the pool deck, or grab a cup of tea and settle into a quiet nook indoors. There's no need to pack more than one book, however, as many cruise ships have libraries.

What not to pack for a cruise

Power strip.

Many cruise lines do not permit power strips as they present a fire hazard, while others allow them as long as they are non-surge-protected. Instead of a power strip, purchase a portable charger such as this highly rated one by Anker , which can power up multiple devices at once. This can be especially useful for shore excursions. When packing for your cruise, also think about your luggage: If it has an included charging port, you may not even need to purchase an additional charging block.

Weapons and restraints

Firearms, handcuffs and the like are not permitted on cruise ships. This rule also includes toy guns on most cruise lines.

While most major cruise lines allow guests to pack a limited amount of wine or Champagne per person, they do not permit hard liquor. Of course, those of age can purchase cocktails at any of the bars on board.

Household appliances

Irons and steamers are not permitted on cruise ships, which is why the aforementioned garment bags, wrinkle release spray and packing cubes are recommended for keeping clothing tidy and neat. Coffee makers and mug warmers are also prohibited.

While you can technically bring you own, it's not necessary as hairdryers are available in every bathroom on most ships.

CBD and marijuana

CBD that's derived from hemp and contains 0.3% THC or less is legal at a federal level. However, each state interprets and enforces this law differently; for example, many states require a prescription for it. Due to the ambiguity of the laws, most cruise lines continue to ban CBD in any form.

Marijuana remains illegal under U.S. federal law, which means you cannot bring it on a cruise ship – even if you're legally able to purchase it in your home state for recreational or medical use.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

For the U.S. News Cruise Packing List, travel writers Gwen Pratesi and Amanda Norcross tapped leading industry experts for their cruise essentials. They regularly update this checklist with new and useful items to pack.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Cruise Lines
• The Best Adults-Only Cruises
• The Best All-Inclusive Cruises

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

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

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

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

Celebrity Blog

• Special Occasions
• Choosing a Cruise
• Planning / Booking A Cruise
• Preparing For Your Cruise
• 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: July 18th, 2024

• Find a Cruise

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Read: Expert Cruise Packing Tips

Undergarments & Sleepwear

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

Casual Daywear

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

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

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

Smart Casual Evenings

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

Evening Chic

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Beachwear & Activewear

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

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

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

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

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

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

Accessories

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hair & Makeup Products

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

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

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

Health & Safety Products

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

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

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

What documents do I need to pack for a cruise?

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

Wallet & Money Belt Items

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

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

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

Read: Do You Need a Passport for a Cruise?

Documentation & Contact Info

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

All those gadgets will need charging, too, so don’t forget those chargers. On Celebrity’s Edge-series ships , you’ll find USB charging ports in your stateroom.

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

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

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

What else do I need to pack for a cruise?

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Ultimate Cruise Packing Checklist

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

Read: What to Wear on a Cruise

• Socks/stockings
• Undershirts

Casual Attire

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

Formal Attire

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

Miscellaneous

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

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

Elissa Garay

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

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

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Table of Contents

Cruise packing tips and advice, final thoughts.

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Key Takeaways

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

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

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

📋 Click Here to View Our Printable Cruise Packing List 📋

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

Getting Started

Check the weather.

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

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

How Many Nights Are You Away?

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

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

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

Are There Any Special Occasions or Themed Nights?

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

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

Make a Packing List Early

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

Choose the Right Luggage

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

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

Purchase Travel-Sized Items

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

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

What Electronics Should I Take?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Travel Admin

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

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

Your Passport

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

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

Your Tickets and Travel Documents

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

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

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

Your Personal Details

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

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

Packing Your Luggage

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

Get Everything Together and Lay It Out

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

Pick Capsule Items

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

A sample capsule wardrobe for a cruise vacation could include:

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

Remove Anything Unnecessary

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

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

Consider Washing Clothes on the Road

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

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

Fold, Interfold, Bundle, or Roll?

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

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

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

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

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

Use Packing Cubes

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

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

Secure Your Liquids

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

Stuff Your Shoes

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

Take Sticky Notes

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

Other niche items you may not have thought of are:

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

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

Airline Considerations

Check the airline baggage policy.

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

Cabin Luggage

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

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

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

Checked Luggage

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

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

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

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

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

The 3-1-1 rule essentially means:

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

Never Check Essentials

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

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

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

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

Apps for Packing

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

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

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

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

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

Travel List App

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

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

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

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

Packing List Checklist

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

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

Apps for Cruise Vacation Travel

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

Cruise Ship Mate

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

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

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

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

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

Cruise Card Control

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

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

Deck Director

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

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

The app is free for both iOS and Android devices.

How to Prepare Your House Before You Leave

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Ultimate Cruise Packing List – Printable Checklist Included!

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

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

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

What to Wear on Cruise Vacations

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

Excursion outfits

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

Around the ship

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

Non-formal dining nights

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

Formal night on cruise

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

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

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

Packing List for Cruise

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

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

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

Clothes for Cruise Travel

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

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

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

Accessories

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

Other Things to Bring on a Cruise

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

Electronics

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

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

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

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

Seasickness Prevention

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

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

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

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

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

Cruise Packing List for Men

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

What to Wear on a Cruise Men

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

Shoes & Accessories

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

Cruise Packing List for Kids

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

What to Pack for a Cruise for Kids

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

What to Bring on a Cruise with Kids

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

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

How to Pack for a Cruise

Here’s what luggage I recommend for a cruise:

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

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

Cruise Packing Checklist to Download

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

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

Questions & Comments on What to Pack on Cruise Ships

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

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

Join Our Facebook Group to Chat More About Cruise Packing Tips

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

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Wow, such thorough info! Nice job.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hope this helps! Marisela

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

pdf is no longer available. Can you help?

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

By jeremy camosse jun 2021.

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

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

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

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

Clothes to Pack for a Cruise

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

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

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

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

Cruise Packing List - Clothes

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

Accessories to Pack for a Cruise

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

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

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

Cruise Packing List - Accessories

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

Toiletries to Pack for a Cruise

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

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

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

Cruise Packing List - Toiletries

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

Electronics to Pack for a Cruise

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

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

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

Here are the items our family packs for each cruise.

Cruise Packing List - Electronics

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

Health to Pack for a Cruise

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

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

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

Cruise Packing List - Health Items

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

Money & Documents to Pack for a Cruise

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

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

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

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

Cruise Packing List - Money & Documents

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

Extras to Pack for a Cruise

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

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

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

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

Cruise Packing List - Extras

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

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

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

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 loved my January 2023 sailing with Celebrity Cruises on the Beyond Cruise Ship. 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

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/THC products
• Large floats for the pool
• Beach towels
• Coffee makers, tea kettles, mug warmers

Free/Printable Cruise Packing Checklist

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60 Cruise Packing Tips & Hacks All Cruisers Need to Know

Sharing is caring!

Are you wondering what to pack for a cruise? Cruises are such easy vacations, but cruise packing takes some planning.

In this post, I share the very best cruise packing tips and hacks you need to know. Whether you’re a first time cruiser or cruise veteran, this cruise packing list will help you to keep organized and have everything you need for a cruise vacation.

I’ve included some genius cruise packing hacks that will help you streamline the process. You’ll find smart organization techniques and essential items and travel gadgets you may not have considered for your cruise vacation.

If you’re looking for a full list of Amazon cruise essentials , I’ll include some resources at the bottom of this post.

This post contains affiliate links which means if you click and buy that I may make a commission, at no cost to you. Please see my disclosure policy for details.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Cruise Packing Tips, Tricks and Hacks

Things to Consider When Making Your Cruise Packing List

Before I share the top cruise packing hacks and tips, these are some things to think about as you create your own cruise packing list. All of these things will make a difference to what you decide to pack for your cruise vacation.

• What will the weather be like? (hot or cold, or both?)
• What’s your cruise line dress code? (for cruise wear planning)
• Will you be flying or driving to the cruise port?
• How many people are in your cruise cabin? (for cabin organizing)
• What excursions and cruise ship activities do you have planned?
• Will you be packing with checked luggage or carry-on only?

What to Pack for your Cruise – Cruise Packing List Must-haves

1. passports and government id.

Firstly, have your cruise documents and your passport or birth certificate on you (in your purse or wallet) as you board your cruise , and not packed in your suitcase! You can be declined boarding if you do not have the proper ID and documents, so do not under any circumstances put them anywhere in your suitcase!

Cruise tip: As soon as you get to your stateroom, put your passports in your small cabin safe, along with any other valuables and cash you’ve brought on the trip.

2. Cruise Documents

Be sure to have your cruise documents ready for embarkation day as you board your cruise.

After you complete your cruise online check-in and fill in health questionnaires, it’s a good idea to print out your travel documents. While you may be using the cruise line app for boarding, it’s always a good idea to have your cruise boarding documentation on hand.

As well, print out any shore excursion reservations, hotel reservations etc. to pack for your cruise. 

3. Embarkation Carry-on Bag

One of the things that first time cruisers often forget, is to pack an embarkation day carry on bag . Basically, you’ll want to pack anything that you may need for the first day of your cruise , as it will take several hours for your luggage to be delivered to your stateroom.

Recommended: Nautical stripe carry on bag tote (check price & over 3400 5* Amazon reviews)

Related:   23 Essential Things to Pack in Your Cruise Carry-On Bag

4. Hard Shell Luggage

While there’s some debate about which luggage is best, hard of soft sided luggage, hard shell luggage wins out for cruise packing!

Since cruise passengers drop luggage off with the porters outside the cruise terminal, it is possible for rain and other weather to have an impact.

The hard shell will protect your luggage from the weather, and keep your clothing and other items dry.

Hard sided luggage with spinner wheels will also make it so much easier to travel before and after your cruise.

Recommended: Level 8 hardshell luggage (my favorite luggage brand – check Amazon reviews here)

5. Pack with Packing Cubes

Use packing cubes or compression bags to maximize space and keep your belongings organized.

One of the best pieces of packing advice I ever received was to use packing cubes to pack for a cruise . They help keep cruise outfits organized and stay mostly wrinkle-free .

If you’re cruising with kids , it’s a good idea to have packing cube sets i n various colors and sizes.

Recommended: packing cubes (5 piece set on Amazon)

6. Use an Air Tag (or other luggage tracking device)

A smart cruise packing hack that many travelers use these days is a placing a GPS luggage tracking device in all checked luggage.

Flight travel continues be be chaotic, and having a luggage tracking device such as an Apple Air Tag or Tile Bluetooth Tracker can be a life saver!

Recommended: Apple Air Tags & holders

7. Place Your Contact Information Inside Your Luggage

This low tech cruise packing hack can be very useful! Before closing up your luggage, write your name and email address, as well as your travel information on a large paper that you place inside your luggage.

Luggage tags can rip or fall off luggage. If this happens, if your luggage is lost or misplaced at an airport, it can be forwarded to your destination by the airline.

8. Shore Excursion Bag

Make sure to bring a shore excursion bag , that you can bring on beach shore excursions or other tours. 

For Caribbean cruises , a big beach bag or good size backpack is essential to pack towels, sunscreen and everything you need for cruise shore excursions.

If you’re on an Alaskan cruise , bring a lightweight water repellant backpack for port days in Juneau, Ketchikan and other Alaska ports.

Recommended: Mesh beach bag with zippers (see details & 4.5* reviews on Amazon here)

Recommended: Light foldable backpack (waterproof)

9. Cell Phone

While having a mobile phone isn’t a necessity, it’s a good idea with you as you travel. Many cruise lines are now using apps for check in and even for new muster drills. 

These apps are free and a great addition to the paper daily planners that cruise lines put in your cabin each night. You can see what you want to do any any given hour of the day, and plan ahead for activities and reservations. You may even have a messaging service that can be used between guests, like with Princess Cruises Ocean Medallion .

If you want to use internet while on your cruise for posting on social media or checking emails, you can purchase a cruise wifi package .

Cruise tip : Remember to put your phone on airplane mode, as soon as you sailaway from the cruise port.

10. “Cruise Approved” Power-bar (non surge protected)

While there’s a whole list of cruise accessories you could pack and bring with you, one thing not to forget is a non-surge protected “cruise approved” power bar .

Most cruise ship cabins just don’t have enough outlets. Although newer build ships may have a couple of USB outlets, most do not. Given all our electronic equipment and chargers, most cruisers would agree that packing a power bar with USB ports is a cruise cabin essential .

Note, for safety reasons, you cannot use a surge protector, iron or steamer. Click here to see my recommendation for a Cruise safe power strip (amazon).

11. Cruise Outfits and Comfortable Shoes

Overall, pack what you are comfortable wearing, but do check your cruise line’s dress codes . Some are more casual (ie. Norwegian) and some are more formal (ie. Cunard), while others are somewhere in between.

No matter the dress code, make sure to pack cruise wear for the weather. If cruising in a cool climate, pack layers for the day if spending time outdoors. When cruising in the Caribbean, light clothing can be worn most of the time.

Don’t forget to pack shoes for daytime activities and evenings. You don’t need a pair of shoes for every cruise outfit, but you do want to pack comfortable shoes for the activities you plan to do.

Don’t forget to pack at least one pair of flip flops for any cruise. You’ll want to have flip flops to wear at the pool deck, thermal spa, in your cabin and on your cruise ship balcony .

Related:   What I Wore on a 7 Day Caribbean Cruise (Cruise Outfits )

Recommended: How to Pack Light for a Cruise

12. Formal Wear/Dressy Outfits

Not all cruise lines have formal nights , however most do have an evening where passengers tend to dress up. For instance, Celebrity Cruises has “evening chic” , Carnival has “Elegant” night and Norwegian has “ Norwegian night out “. 

These days cruise lines have relaxed the suggested dress codes, but many people do enjoy occasion to dress up a little. If you would like to participate, plan on bringing some fancier outfits.

For men this can be a tuxedo, suit or dress pants and dress shirt. For ladies an evening gown, cocktail dress and “little black dress” are all appropriate.

Read more:   What to Wear on a Cruise Formal Night (and frequently asked questions)

Get The Ultimate Cruise Planner

Regular price: $27 now just $17.

13. Hanging Toiletry Bag

The average cruise ship cabin is fairly small and has minimal storage space. I pack my toiletries in a hanging toiletry bag and it saves a lot of space in the cabin bathroom.

Recommended: Hanging toiletry bag (available in large & medium size)

14. Travel Size Toiletries

Cruise lines provide basic toiletries such as shampoo and shower gel in your stateroom. However, the quality of products varies by cruise line.

If you have specific products you like to use, it’s a good idea to pack your toiletries in leakproof travel containers .

Recommended: Travel containers (includes TSA approved leakproof bottles, containers & toothbrush covers)

15. Shoe Bags

Don’t pack dirty shoes straight into your luggage and next to your clothing. Shoe bags are great to keep your shoes protected, scuff free and are more sanitary.

Shoe bags are a great packing organizing tool for cruises and any travel. Stuff shoes with small items like socks, ties and more.

A cruise packing hack that’s an alternative to a shoe bag is using a plastic shower cap to cover the bottom of the shoe. These can be found cheaply at the dollar store , with other travel items.

Recommended: Shoe bags (check price & Amazon reviews here)

Check with your cruise line, however many cruise lines allow you bring a couple bottles of wine on board. There is a corkage fee of 15$, however when you consider what a bottle of wine will cost on the ship, this is likely worth it!

17. Travel Corkscrew

If you drink wine, I suggest you bring a small travel corkscrew (TSA approved) , and keep it in your luggage for next time too. This really saves some time and energy for me when cruise packing!

Cruise tip: You can ask your room attendant to keep ice in your ice bucket every day and also for wine glasses to be kept in your cabin. Alternatively, you can also pick up glasses at any bar.

18. Refillable Water Bottles

The water on board the ship is filtered and safe to drink, so bring refillable water bottles to sip from while on the ship by the pool and especially in port when going to the beach .

Keep in mind that you will not want to drink the water in most ports of call so this item is a must on your cruise packing list . At about 3$ a bottle, you’ll save a lot of money by bringing your own.

Recently some cruise lines, including Virgin Voyages, have banned single use plastic bottles. Having a thermal good quality water bottle is useful to have both on the cruise ship and in ports of call.

Recommended: Refillable Water Bottles (check price & over 3000 Amazon reviews)

19. Travel Coffee Mugs

If you’re a coffee lover, pack a thermal travel coffee mug . You’ll be able to fill your coffee mug at the cruise ship buffet or cafe, and enjoy a big cup at any time of day.

Recommended: Travel coffee mug

20. Wrinkle Release Spray and Tide To Go

These 2 laundry items are very useful when traveling, but especially on a cruise ship when you don’t have easy access to laundry facilities.

Make sure to pack travel sizes of Tide to Go stain removal stick and Downy Wrinkle Release .

Related: Do Cruise Ships Provide Irons and Ironing Boards to Guests? 

21. Bring a Pop up Mesh Laundry Bag

A great way to keep your cruise cabin organized and store dirty clothes is to bring along a collapsible mesh laundry hamper . This one actually folds up super small so it’s easy and light to pack for your cruise. 

This is honestly one of my favorite cruise tips!

21. Pharmaceutical Items

Some of the most overpriced items on a cruise are often pharmaceutical or health products sold in the cruise ship convenience store. So, avoid buying these items onboard, and pack them from home instead.

You’ll need; waterproof bandaids , polysporin , immodium , pepto-bismal or tums tablets , re-hydrate tablets , pain reliever , throat lozenges , allergy medicine like benadryl l, calamine lotion and cough candies .

This is what I bring and include on my cruise packing list, but I suggest you write out your own cruise first-aid kit packing list. 

Read more: 31 Cruise First Aid Kit Essentials You Need to Have

22. Lanyards for Cruise Ship Cards

You might be wondering where to keep your cruise card? Having cruise lanyards for your cruise key card is a convenient way for cruisers to be a bit more hands free on a cruise.

With this must-have cruise essential , you won’t be losing your cruise card!

Recommended: Cruise lanyards (available in different colors)

23. Waterproof Phone Case

Consider bringing a waterproof phone case (great to pack for shore excursions) on a lanyard. You can take photos and videos with the phone case on, and avoid ruining your phone on a cruise!

Recommended: Waterproof phone case on lanyard (see 80,000+ Amazon reviews)

24. US small bills

Why bring small bills on a cruise? You won’t need cash to pay cruise ship tips or gratuities , as this can be charged to your credit card during your cruise. For your convenience, you can even prepay gratuities before your cruise if you like.

However, it’s a good idea to have small bills to tip the luggage porters as you drop off your luggage on embarkation day , or if they assist you for disembarkation . You may also want to tip for room service delivery, tour guides in a cruise port and have cash to make small purchases in a shore side market.

Keep in mind that US dollars are welcome in most Caribbean cruise ports. However, when you cruise in Europe or outside of North America, make sure to use the local currency.

Cruise tip: Avoid using your credit card in cruise ports, unless it’s for larger purchases. Even then, keep an eye on the currency being charged and that the amount is what was agreed upon.

25. Credit Cards

It’s always a good idea to have a credit card or two when you’re traveling and visiting cruise ports of call. A good cruise travel hack is to apply for a credit card that has benefits like reward points and travel insurance.

26. Seasickness Medication

Make sure to be prepared for possible motion sickness on a cruise . While we all hope not to get seasick, seasickness medication or prevention should be on your cruise packing list just in case.

Years ago I used to bring scopolamine or motion sickness patches , although we never used them. If you are prone to seasickness, I do suggest bringing them as people report that they work really well. You can also bring seabands,   which are great for the cruise ship as well as boat excursions.

Nowadays, I  bring some candied ginger as well as Bonine motion sickness medication, just in case.

Related:   How to Prevent Seasickness on a Cruise: 10 Effective Remedies

Bonine vs Dramamine: Which is the Best Motion Sickness Medicine on a Cruise

27. Sunscreen & Aloe Vera

If you’re packing for a Caribbean or Bahamas cruise, make sure to pack reef-friendly sunscreen and aloe vera for potential sunburns.

Recommended: Reef-safe sunscreen (spf 50)

This is my favorite aloe vera gel ! We used it on our last cruise when we got too much sun, and it was effective, non-sticky and moisturizing.

Recommended: Organic aloe vera gel (see price & amazon reviews here)

28. Lip balm

 Protection from the sun goes beyond our skin. Don’t forget to pack lip balm with an SPF for each member of the family, to avoid unwelcome swollen lips on a cruise.

I used this Neutrogena tinted lip balm on my Caribbean cruise and highly recommend it!

Recommended: Neutrogena tinted lip balm with SPF

29. Ziplock Baggies

Even though I love packing cubes and hanging toiletry bags , sometimes, a good old ziplock baggy is what you need. 

Pack a few bandaids in a baggy and throw them into your cruise shore excursion bag . Use baggies to pack a few snacks for your children from the buffet. You may even want to make a DIY wet bag and put wet bathing suits in large ziplocks after a beach excursion.

30. Water shoes

If you’re going to the beach, water shoes will be very useful. We brought water shoes for a shore excursion to Virgin Gorda, the Baths and have decided to bring them on every Caribbean, Bermuda and hot weather cruise from now on!

Recommended: Water shoes (men’s & women’s sizes & styles)

31. Children’s Items

If you’re traveling with young children, bring what you would need for any trip: diapers , wipes, rash creams . Bring some children’s tylenol or your preferred medication as well. Do check with the cruise line as to what will be provided as food, and what you may need to bring and add that to your children’s cruise packing list .

Related:  7 Best Cruise Lines for Families

32. Sand Toys

There really isn’t much of a limit on what you can bring on a cruise, so if you’re cruising with young children, why not pack sand and beach toys ? These can really keep the kids busy on beach days , and having fun on your cruise!

33. Towel Clips

If you’re going on a cruise, you’ll want to pack towel clips to keep your towels from blowing away with the sea breeze.

I bought these towel clips a few years ago. Not only are they probably my favorite cruise accessory , but they are so useful! When it’s breezy on a cruise ship on sea days , or even on our beach days, I simply clip my towels to the lounge chairs and they stay in place.

There are a few options such as cute flamingo clips , or parrots and more!

Recommended: Boca Clips Beach Towel Holders

Towel Bands

Alternatively, you may want to pack towel bands , especially if you’re trying to pack light on your cruise .

Recommended: Towel bands (check price & reviews here on Amazon)

35. Microfiber Towel

While you don’t have to pack a towel for a cruise, there are many cruisers who swear that bring their own fast dry towel is a great cruise tip!

The cruise ship will provide you with towels that you can use on the lido deck as well as in cruise ports. However, they can be heavy and take time to dry when they get wet.

Consider packing lightweight microfiber towels that dry quickly (and stay sand free) for beach and water excursions.

Recommended: Microfiber towels (see different sizes – medium & larger is best)

36. Inexpensive Watch

Consider bringing along an inexpensive watch so that you can be sure to stay on ship’s time in the cruise ports of call.

Recommended: Digital waterproof wristwatch (great reviews & affordable)

37. Luggage Sleeves

Protect your luggage when you fly or cruise with a reusable luggage sleeve or cover.

Recommended: Luggage cover (see through)

38. Reusable Straws

Cruise lines have banned plastic straws in recent years. Consider packing silicone reusable straws if you’d rather not have the soggy paper straws.

These make a great gift for the cruise lover in your life that seems to have it all.

Recommended: Silicone straws (check price & 3000+ Amazon reviews here)

39. Pill Organizer Box

I love this pill box with several compartments for over the counter medication and vitamins. This pill organizer box has separate compartments in a handy folding design.

Recommended: Pill organizer box (check price, color options & 8000+ reviews)

40. Cruise Luggage Tag Holders

After you print your luggage tags for your cruise , make sure that you purchase cruise luggage tag holders for your cruise line. This cruise packing hack will ensure that your paper tags don’t fall off your luggage during the boarding process.

• Carnival luggage tag holders
• Royal Caribbean luggage tag holders
• Princess luggage tag holders
• Norwegian luggage tag holders
• Celebrity luggage ta g holders
• MSC luggage tag holders
• Holland America luggage tag holders

Cruise Packing Hacks to Save Space & Pack Better

These cruise packing hacks will save space in your luggage, stay organized educe wrinkles in clothing.

41. Use Packing Cubes for Organization

Use packing cubes to separate different categories of clothing for your cruise. Daywear, evening and sleepwear can all be placed in their own packing cubes.

42. Roll clothing instead of folding

Rolling clothes is a great way to pack clothing and reduce wrinkles. Many people also claim that rolling clothing is also a space saver.

43. Use tissue paper between clothing items

Tissue paper can be placed between clothing make of linen or cotton to reduce friction, which increases the chance of wrinkles forming in the clothing.

44. Place socks, scarves and small items in shoes and handbags

There are a lot of small places to pack items. This includes shoes and handbags. Putting soft items in handbags will preserve the shape of designer handbags.

45. Pack belts in dress shirt collars

A commonly known packing hack is to place a belt in the collar of dress shirts. This helps to keep the shape of a man’s dress shirt and also saves space in luggage.

46. Use dry cleaning bags for blouses and formal dresses

Dry cleaning bags can be placed between dresses and other clothing, and rolled. It will prevent wrinkles in formal wear.

47. Use bubble wrap to wrap fragile and glass items

If you’re packing fragile items like perfume bottles, why not use bubble wrap you’ve saved from packaging?

48. Use a plastic shower cap to cover shoes

Cover the sole of your favorite shoes as you pack them in your luggage.

49. Pack dryer sheets to keep clothing smelling fresh

Dryer sheets are great to have in your luggage to keep your clothing smelling fresh. This is especially important as you pack up at the end of your cruise, and will likely have dirty clothing.

50. Pack a kitchen garbage bag for dirty laundry

Put your dirty clothes in a scented kitchen garbage bag before you put them into your luggage at the end of your cruise.

51. Lock luggage with a TSA approved combination lock for safety

Don’t fly without locking your locking your luggage with a TSA approved lock. You can also lock valuable items like laptops and luxury bags in locked luggage to keep your items secure in your cruise cabin .

52. Pack a Separate Pre-Cruise Hotel Bag

Remember to have a packing cube with change of clothes and other items you’ll need for a pre-cruise hotel stay.

53. Make Your Luggage Stand Out

Most of us have black or gray luggage, which isn’t easy to spot in a sea of suitcases. Use ribbon, yarn or duct tape on your luggage to make it stand out at the airport and cruise terminal.

Cruise Packing Hacks for Your Cabin & Cruise Essentials

These are some ways to organize and add more storage to your cruise ship cabin. Many cruise passengers use a few cruise cabin hacks .

If you’re looking for add to your cruise packing list , here are some of the best selling cruise accessories on Amazon , that may be useful to pack for your cruise. 

54. Over the Door Organizer

Use an over the door shoe organizer to hold toiletries, flip flops, umbrellas and other items and add vertical storage to your cruise ship cabin.

55. Foldable Travel Hangers

You can request extra hangers from your cabin steward. However, if you prefer to bring your own, you can bring some lightweight foldable hangers so that you can unpack quickly.

56. Magnet Hooks

Pack some magnet hooks to hand your hats, sweatshirts and even backpacks in your cruise cabin. Many cruise ship cabin walls are metal, so magnetic hooks are genius! Make sure they are heavy duty (50 lbs plus).

57. Sticky Notes

Pack sticky notes to leave notes for your cabin attendant or cabin mates.

58. Highlighters

Cruise lines have apps where you can your daily schedule. However, if you like a paper cruise planner (as I do), then bring a highlighter to mark the activities you want to check out.

59. Travel Fan

Cruise ship cabins can get hot and stuffy. Consider packing a small travel fan .

60. White Noise Machine

If you need white noise to sleep, consider packing a small white noise machine or download a white noise app on your cell phone.

First time cruisers should know that cruise ships can have noises that you won’t hear in a hotel room (like ocean sounds, hallway noise and creeks).

Would you like to see more about packing for a cruise? In this video I share more cruise packing tips you’ll enjoy!

61. Cruise Cabin Night Light

Cruise ship cabins get very dark at night, especially inside cabins. You may want to pack a motion sensor cruise cabin night light .

Related & Popular Posts:

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• Essential Things to Pack in Your Cruise Carry-On
• What to Pack for a Caribbean Cruise
• Cruise Wear over 50: Flattering Cruise Outfits for Women
• Plus Size Cruise Wear: Beautiful Cruise Outfits for Curvy Women
• Best Travel Gadgets to Bring on a Cruise (tech items & electronics)

Final Thoughts on Cruise Packing Tips and Hacks All Cruisers Need to Know

In this post we went over what to pack for a cruise, as well as over 60 useful cruise packing tips and hacks for new and experienced cruisers. I’ve also included some of the most useful cruise items that can make your cruise easier as well.

I hope this post has been helpful to give you a good idea to know what to pack for your cruise vacation.

What are your cruise packing tips or must-haves items you bring on a cruise? Please let me know in the comments below.

Happy Cruising!

Ilana 

If you found this post helpful, please don’t keep it to yourself ;-). Share it on Facebook or Save for later Pinterest (share buttons at the top). Thanks so much!

34 Comments

I’ve read from a lot of travelers to use packing cubes. I myself haven’t used them YET. I just bought some for our next months cruise. They really help avoid wrinkled clothes, and they keep everything organized.

I just googled those. What a good idea! I know I’ve tried the plastic packing bags (ziplock I think), but since I pack my shoes in between my clothes I preferred my clothes more “flexible”. Perhaps I’ll try these. If you cruise shortly please pop back and let me know how you like them 🙂

I love packing cubes!! Rolled clothes pack with ease. Check out YouTube for folding techniques.

Seems I have to try these!! Next cruise for sure 🙂

LHaggard I have cruised a dozen or more times. Last year the Celebrity Equinox and this year on the Carnival Freedom is booked. Enjoyed several different lines and never disappointed.

It’s great that you enjoy the different cruise experiences on different cruise lines.

Have fun on the Freedom!

I always use packing cubes, they work really well for me 👍🏻😊

Well I will 100% be trying them for my cruise next month! Thanks for the tip :-)!!

I used packing cubes for the first times on my last cruise. I loved them. You can leave all your clothes in them and just put the cubes on a shelf or in a drawer. Just unzip and leave open in the shelf or drawer. So much quicker to unpack and pack now. I love them.

Really? That sounds like such a time saver!! I actually hate packing up to go home, so especially for that! Thanks for the tip Judith 🙂

Just returned from the Eastern Caribbean. I definitely overpacked. I must say, I brought 4 swim suits and wore all of them and lived in light weight board shorts, flowy tank tops and flip flops. Didn’t need the fancy shorts at all. All you need is one LBD and play it up with accessories if you have 2 formal nights. Long summery maxi dresses were perfect for evenings and don’t forget a light weight sweater. The ships air conditioning can be quite chilly.

You’re right. A LBD really works! I too love my sundresses. I am a sucker for shoes though. One cruise I brought 17 pairs for 7 days… but that included flip flops, fancy sandals, heals, running shoes. In any case I know that was too much, even for me, lol. I’m better now!! Thanks for commenting 🙂

Great info. I love to travel but have not yet been on a cruise. What would you say is the best part of taking a cruise? Thanks Nina

Hi Nina, A cruise is definitely worth a try! Personally, I like so many things. It fits my need to have fun, relax, reconnect with my loved ones and travel and explore. If you love to travel but cruising makes you a bit nervous, perhaps try a cruise that leaves out of a destination you always wanted to visit. I this way you can plan 2 or 3 days in that city to explore more deeply. After that each day in a port is about 10 hours, so you can decide what you want to do. Perhaps browse my site for the Cruise Misconceptions post, as there is a cruise for everyone and one size does not fit all. Let me know if you need advice or have questions 🙂

Thanks for your practical tips, one of the best I’ve read so far. Going on my first cruise around the Med for 14 days in a July and this will help a lot..

Thanks for your comment Kathryn! I’m so glad to hear that you found the tips helpful. I have another post with Med Cruise tips that you might like too. Shoot me any questions about your Med ports if you like :-).

I rarely drop comments, however i did some searching and wound up here Cruising this Year? Simple, Easy and Practical Packing Tips for the Best Cruise – LifeWellCruised.com. And I do have a few questions for you if it’s allright. Could it be only me or does it look like a few of these responses look like they are coming from brain dead visitors? 😛 And, if you are writing on additional sites, I’d like to keep up with everything new you have to post. Could you list of the complete urls of your social pages like your Facebook page, twitter feed, or linkedin profile? https://www.silicone-wristbands.co.uk

Hi there, for sure if you have questions I am happy to answer. Feel free to contact me through the contact page or at [email protected] . I’m in the process of developing my social sites, but for now you can follow me on Pinterest https://www.pinterest.ca/LifeWellCruised/pins/

I always have to make the packing list for my family, this makes life a lot easier! Great information!

Hey Jessica, I am so glad it was helpful for you! Thanks for taking the time to comment xoxo, Ilana

Please do to leave a case of water with the porters if you are cruising Disney Cruise Line. All drinks must be carried on.

Thanks for that tip Jody!

I have been using packing cubes for a few years now. They are a must! You can pack more and keep everything super organized!

Thanks Sandy for sharing that. They definitely see to make life so much easier when packing for a cruise.

I’ll have to take your advice and try and find some I love!

I finally bought packing cubes before our last trip to Arizona last year…what a difference! I’m cruising next month on a mother/daughter birthday trip with my mom, and can’t wait to see how efficient I can be for our cruise 🙂 Thank you for all of your hacks and tips. I feel very prepared….now to get all of this stuff packed into a small suitcase!

That’s awesome! Great to hear the packing cubes work so well!

Thanks for your kind words – I’m glad you’re feeling prepared for your mother/daughter cruise. It sounds really special!

Have an amazing cruise!

I am a light sleeper and I need complete darkness when I sleep. I never travel without this as I find this works on cruises as well as in hotel rooms. My discovery?

I take 10 to 12 large “chip bag” clips with me and use them to keep curtains tightly closed thereby keeping out ALL light.

So for all you light sleepers out there, try this hack.

That’s a smart hack! It could definitely be used on cruises (for ocean view & balcony cabins) as well.

Thanks for sharing

Ilana – We will soon be on our 16th cruise and I would like to share: I use large zip-lock bags to pack separate items – undies, socks, short sleeve shirts, sweaters etc…( you get the idea) and when I unpack, the bags go right in the drawers and/or shelves – don’t have to worry (especially when packing for disembark) both goes fast. Also my husband is left handed so everything is layed out as per… closet, bathroom shelves.. he is on the left. I unpack- he hangs the clothes- you would be surprised how fast you accomplish that duty and ready to roam the ship. Also these filled bags fill in for slipping between slacks ( I have no wrinkles upon arrival). I hope this idea is as useful to some as it is to me. PS: when I zip the bags, try to get as much air out of them – takes less room in luggage!

Great tips! Thanks for sharing!

I use 2 colors for cubes, cube pack everything and then split his and mine between two suitcases. Unpacking is easy and if one suitcase is lost, we still each have some clothes.

Great point

I leave one suitcase (unzipped) under the bed and as dirty laundry accumulates during the cruise, I pack it into this suitcase. When disembarkation rolls around, much of your packing is done. Once you get home, unpacking is easier because all the laundry is in one suitcase. This works for my husband and me, can’t speak for a family situation.

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Printable Cruise Packing List (75 Best Things to Pack)

By: Author Kim Tate

Posted on Published: April 14, 2022

Cruise packing 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!

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Travel + Leisure / Kevin Liang

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

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

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

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

Packing Checklist for a Cruise

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

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

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

Clothing for Women

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

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

Best Swimsuit

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

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

Best Evening Dress

Unbound merino travel dress.

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

Best Slacks

Banana republic crop flare everywhere ponte pant.

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

Best Blouse

Ravella milano silk blouse.

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

Best Sweater

Everlane the cozy-rib cardigan.

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

Clothing for Men

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

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

Best Shorts

Bonobos the chino short 2.0.

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

Best Swim Trunks

Vuori banks short.

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

Best Short-sleeve Button-down

Rsvlts bamboo short sleeve shirt.

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

DUER Weightless Poplin AC Pants

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

Best Jacket

Twillory performance blazer.

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

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

Shoes for Women

Best sandals, birkenstock arizona essentials eva sandals.

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

Best Sneakers

Kizik women's wasatch slip-on sneaker.

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

Best Dress Shoes

Margaux the city sandal.

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

Shoes for Men

Crocs classic ii flip flop.

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

Hoka One One Men's Clifton 8

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

Cole Haan Original Grand Wingtip Derby

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

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

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

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

Fjällräven Kånken Totepack

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

Best Backpack

Isle gateway waterproof backpack.

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

HOBO Fern Crossbody

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

Best Sunglasses for Women

I-sea all aboard polarized sunglasses.

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

Best Sunglasses for Men

Knockaround premiums sport sunglasses.

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

Best Hat for Women

Solbari wide cotton linen hat.

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

Best Hat for Men

Einskey unisex sun hat.

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

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

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

Best Motion Sickness Remedy

Sea-band comforting acupressure bands.

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

Best Binoculars

Nocs provision standard issue 8x25 waterproof binoculars.

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

Best Reusable Water Bottle

Stojo collapsible water bottle.

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

Best Sunscreen

Blue lizard sensitive mineral sunscreen spf 50+ 3 oz.

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

Best Travel Adapter

Epicka universal travel adapter.

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

Best Hanging Organizer

Bagsmart hanging compression packing cubes.

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

How many outfits should I pack for a cruise?

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

What should I avoid packing for a cruise?

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

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

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

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

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

Related: The Ultimate Beach Vacation Packing List

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

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

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

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

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

See all of our cruise articles

Cruise Packing Checklist

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

See text version of the cruise packing list

Cruise Packing Tips

1. Pack by subtraction

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

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

Also read: Top 10 Cruise Tips and Hacks

2. Pack your carryon for the long haul

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

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

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

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

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

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

3. Pack like you’re going to a resort

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

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

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

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

4. Pack layers

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

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

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

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

5. Suck out all of the air

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

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

6. Go for the freebies

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

Also read: Tips for Going on a River Cruise

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7. Cruise Packing Hacks

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

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

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

Cruise Packing List

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

Pack in Your Luggage

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

Pack in Your Carry-on

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

Also read:  Should You Buy The Cheapest Travel Insurance?

Cruise Travel Protection

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

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The Ultimate Packing List

Christine Sarkis

Ashley Rossi

There's a 95 percent chance Senior Editor Christine Sarkis is thinking about travel right now. Follow her on Instagram @postcartography and Twitter @ChristineSarkis .

Christine Sarkis is an SATW-award-winning journalist and executive editor at SmarterTravel. Her stories have also appeared on USA Today, Conde Nast Traveler, Huffington Post, and Business Insider. Her advice has been featured in dozens of print and online publications including The New York Times , Conde Nast Traveler , and People magazine. She has also shared travel tips on television and radio shows including Good Morning America, Marketplace, and Here & Now. Her work has been published in the anthologies Spain from a Backpack and The Best Women's Travel Writing 2008 . She is currently working on a travel memoir.

The Handy Item I Always Pack : The Trtl Pillow . It's easy to pack and comfortable, and makes it so I can actually sleep on flights.

Ultimate Bucket List Experience : Seeing the Aurora Borealis from the comfort of somewhere warm, like a glass igloo or hot spring.

Travel Motto : Curiosity is an amazing compass.

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat : Aisle all the way.

Email Christine Sarkis at [email protected] .

Ashley Rossi is always ready for her next trip. Follow her on Twitter and Instagram for travel tips, destination ideas, and off the beaten path spots.

After interning at SmarterTravel, Ashley joined the team full time in 2015. She's lived on three continents, but still never knows where her next adventure will take her. She's always searching for upcoming destination hotspots, secluded retreats, and hidden gems to share with the world.

Ashley's stories have been featured online on USA Today, Business Insider, TripAdvisor, Huffington Post, Jetsetter, and Yahoo! Travel, as well as other publications.

The Handy Item I Always Pack : "A reusable filtered water bottle—it saves you money, keeps you hydrated, and eliminates waste—win-win."

Ultimate Bucket List Experience : "A week in a bamboo beach hut on India's Andaman Islands."

Travel Motto : "Travel light, often, and in good company."

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat : "Window—best view in the house."

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Packing mishaps range from inconvenient (heading to the Caribbean without a swimsuit) to disastrous (discovering you left the country without your wallet), but most are preventable. We’ve created this ultimate packing list to help you pack well every time.

The Ultimate Packing Checklist

To see the ultimate packing list, scroll down the page or click here for an editable PDF version that you can save or print out. To customize the list, simply download or print it, then edit for your specific needs. You can also download the editable, mobile-friendly checklist here .

Clothes to Pack

• Dress Shirts
• Casual Shirts
• Sweatshirts
• Laundry Kit
• Leisure Shoes
• Hiking Boots
• Dress Shoes
• Collapsible Tote

Shop Our Clothing Packing List

Toiletries to Pack

• Dental Floss
• Conditioner
• Styling Tools
• Facial Cleanser
• Face Lotion
• Moisturizer
• Contact Lenses
• Contact Solution
• Shaving Supplies
• Makeup Remover
• Menstrual Products
• Birth Control/Medication
• Nail Clippers
• Hand Sanitizer
• First-Aid Ointment
• Insect Repellent
• Pain Relievers

Shop Our Toiletries Packing List

Miscellaneous Items

• Laptop/Tablet
• Film/Memory Card
• List of Medications
• Banking Contacts/Information
• Electronic Chargers
• Emergency Contacts
• Copy of Passport
• Plug Adapter

Shop Our Miscellaneous Items List

What to Pack in Your Carry-on

• Books or E-Books
• Travel Blanket
• Travel Pillow
• Disinfecting Wipes
• Change of Clothes
• Empty Water Bottle
• In-Flight Medications
• Passport/Visa/ID
• Credit/ATM cards
• Insurance Cards
• Maps/Directions

Shop Our Carry-On Essentials List

Packing Tips for Clothes and Other Items

When packing for a vacation the most important things to keep in mind are the length of your trip, the weather, and any non-standard clothing or gear you might need.

Your first step when packing is to decide if you’ll be checking a bag or only taking a carry-on and then curate the amount of clothing you’ll need based on that decision. Typically, you should avoid checking a bag in situations where you have a layover since the likelihood of your bag going missing goes up with every connection . You might also want to avoid checking a bag if you absolutely need items in your bag on arrival—for example, if you’re going on a cruise.

If you’re packing more minimally, focus on packing layering clothes in more neutral colors. That’s not because we don’t like fun colors and patterns; it just means that neutral-colored clothing is more versatile, so you can wear these items more than once when you’re tight on space.

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Also invest in clothing that does double duty, like multi-use wraps , crushable hats , self-cooling and heating fabrics like merino wool layers , bug-repellent clothing , wrinkle-resistant shirts, quick-drying activewear and undergarments, casual sneakers, UPF-proof clothing , and compressible jackets … just to name a few. Look toward popular athleisure brands like Lululemon , prAna , and Athleta for comfortable yet stylish travel clothing.

When curating your packing list, you should keep in mind the length of your trip and decide on quantities from there. For a shorter trip (three to five days), you can probably manage with the following: one pair of underwear and socks per day, one pair of pajamas, one to two dressier outfits, one to two activewear or athleisure outfits, one to two casual outfits, and one to two pairs of shoes. For a longer trip (over a week), you can manage with one pair of underwear and socks per day, two pairs of pajamas, three dressier outfits, three to four casual outfits, two pairs of shoes, and two activewear or athleisure outfits.

And if you’re able to do laundry on your vacation, you can probably manage with even fewer items. Just don’t forget to pack a travel laundry kit .

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Also make sure to bring along accessories like a money belt, scarf or sarong (can be used for things like an airplane blanket , coverup at the beach, or to throw over your dress on a cool evening), and a collapsible tote or day bag for any extra items you might acquire on your travels. If traveling to a city or destination that is prone to pickpocketing, make sure to pack some pickpocket-proof clothing and gear .

Depending on the type of trip you’re going on, you may need to invest in some special travel gear. We’ve tested out everything from waterproof baby carriers to interchangeable heels , so you can trust our recommendations. If you’re headed out on an organized group tour , you’ll most likely get a packing list from the tour provider, which should make your trip planning easier. If not, do your research online (one tip is to look at locations on Instagram and see what people are wearing) and consult this story for other handy lists of tips.

For more active trips, make sure you have a sturdy pair of hiking boots, quick-drying clothing, a day pack, snacks, and any necessary equipment. Check out our specific packing lists for hiking trips and camping trips .

Another type of trip that you may need to pack slightly specific items for is a cruise . Make sure you pack non-standard items like seasickness remedies, formal wear, dress shoes, and your bathing suit. Beach vacations also require different items like water shoes, towels, sunscreen, and maybe even snorkel gear. Luckily for you, we also have a specific cruise packing list and a beach vacation packing list .

Lastly, you need to consider the weather. For warm-weather destinations like jungles and Caribbean islands, you can obviously skip the coats and gloves, but if you’re headed out on a ski vacation then you’ll need a whole slew of things like goggles, a neck gaiter, snow boots, and more. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with a specific Caribbean vacation packing list , a Mexico vacation packing list , and even a ski trip packing list .

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To help keep things organized, we love using packing cubes and/or compression sacks. They’re especially useful for when you’re traveling to multiple destinations in one trip.

Wondering how to pack all of your items? Enter the great debate of the rolling vs. folding method! While this is definitely a personal preference, we put two editors to the test to find out which method is in fact, more space-saving. Watch the video below to see the answer.

How to Pack Toiletries and Medications

Whether it’s important medication or your favorite lipstick, forgetting any type of toiletry can range from being mildly inconvenient to becoming a serious problem. For toiletries, make sure to pack your essentials, like medication, contacts, and any other items that you might not be able to purchase or replace during your travels. (Put them in your carry-on bag, not your checked suitcase.) However, if you forget items like a toothbrush or razor, you can typically call the front desk at the hotel for a spare.

We also recommend traveling with some type of a travel first-aid kit , which includes items like tweezers, first-aid ointment, bandages, travel-sized hand sanitizer, sunscreen, and insect repellent. Make sure to check TSA guidelines if you’re traveling with medication , as well as the policies and regulations at your destination.

Packing Tips for Everything Else …

Traveling without tech items like your phone, laptop, tablet, or camera can be a major bummer. For those traveling abroad, you’ll also want to remember to pack electronic adapters and converters . Other tech-related items for photographers to pack are a sturdy camera bag , backup batteries, and memory cards, as well as lens cleaner. And don’t forget smartphone essentials like a backup charger, waterproof case if you’re headed out on the water, and a phone stand or tripod for photos.

A travel packing tip we’ve learned the hard way? Travel with a copy of your passport, credit card, and bank contacts, as well as a list of medications and your emergency contacts.

If you are traveling abroad, we have an entire checklist for you, but the most important thing to note here is your passport and visas . Make sure that your passport is up to date, has as least six months of validity, and has enough blank pages for any stamps. Another tip for international travel? Give yourself plenty of time to apply for any visas that you might need and to arrange for a visit to a travel clinic if any special medications or vaccines are needed. You should also familiarize yourself with any remaining COVID-19 travel restrictions at your destination.

There are also some items that you may not think to pack, but should, like an electronic tracker , duct tape , toilet paper, a decoy wallet, or a whistle.

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What to Always Pack in Your Carry-on Bag

In case you’re separated from your checked bag or other items, you should always make sure that you have your ID, wallet, house keys, medications, valuables, camera, phone, laptop, tablet, pen, cash and cards, glasses, and copy of your itinerary with you on the plane.

Other items that you might want to have handy with you include entertainment for your flight, comfort-promoting items like a blanket or pillow, as well as an empty water bottle to fill up post-security (here is a list of our favorites ), a change of clothes (just in case your luggage is lost or delayed), snacks, and gum.

If you’re looking to pack carry-on only, you guessed it: We also have a separate packing list and tips for that, as well as the best bags to use for carry-on only .

What to Pack to Stay Healthy While Traveling

The pandemic has significantly changed the way we travel and, by extension, the items we prioritize in our luggage. While many destinations have loosened or entirely lifted COVID-19 restrictions, some venues and events may still require a mask or proof of vaccination/negative COVID test to enter. Plan ahead to see if any activities on your itinerary have restrictions in place.

Sanitizing wipes and hand sanitizer , while always a good idea to have on hand at the airport , have become absolute carry-on musts. Wiping down areas like your tray table, airplane seat armrest, and hotel television remote can spare you from a variety of common travel bugs.

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2013. It has been updated to reflect the most current information. Ashley Rossi contributed to this story.

All of the products featured in this story were hand-selected by our travel editors. Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

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