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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.

List of things to pack for a cruise

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

Balcony cabin on a cruise

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

Child with cruise ship

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

Suitcase packed for a cruise

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.

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

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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

Downloadable Cruise Packing List

Ensure you have these cruise essentials for your vacation at sea.

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 ship mate(s) to maximize stateroom storage space. Or, consider bringing medium-sized luggage, such as the The Medium by Away , for checking in.

Read: The Best Checked Luggage Options

Garment bag

Halfday The Garment Duffel in blue against white background.

Courtesy of Halfday

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

Packing cubes or vacuum-sealed bags

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

Carry-on caddy

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

Digital luggage scale

The compact Etekcity scale – approximately $10 on Amazon – can weigh bags up to 110 pounds and help you avoid overweight baggage fees.

Read: Carry-on Luggage Size and Weight Limits by Airline

Bungee cord

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

Luggage tracker

Front and back of Apple AirTag against white background.

Courtesy of Apple

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

Cruise insurance

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

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

Credit cards and local currency

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

RFID wallet

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

Read: The Top Passport Holders and Wallets

Medications

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

Sheet masks

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

Magnetic hooks

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

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

Wrinkle release spray

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

Laundry detergent

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

Over-the-door organizers

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

Poo-Pourri bottle against white background.

Courtesy of Poo-Pourri

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

Read: Cruise Line Drink Packages

If you plan to bring wine or Champagne, you'll likely need a corkscrew . While some cruise lines may prohibit corkscrews, others allow them onboard; 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 (less than $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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Tips on Trips and Expert Picks

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

Sound machine

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

Tech organizer

Open Bagsmart Electronics Organizer fills with cords against white background.

Courtesy of Bagsmart

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

First-aid kit

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

Hand sanitizer

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

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

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

Read:  The Best Cruises for Babies and Toddlers

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

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

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

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

Courtesy of Sea-Bands

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.

Read: What to Wear on a Cruise: Daytime, Formal Nights & More

Sports jacket or blazer

Adam Coulter, executive editor of Cruise Critic UK & 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 captain hats .

Read:  The Top Party Cruises

Travel wrap

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

Packable jacket

Patagonia Nano Puff Jacket in black against white background.

Courtesy of Patagonia

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

Read: Alaska Cruise Packing List: Must-Have Items

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. For more recommendations, browse the best beach hats in a variety of styles.

Comfortable walking shoes

Allbirds Wool Runners in pink against neutral background.

Courtesy of Allbirds

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

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, we like the Crocs LiteRide 360 Pacer . 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, who loves her Rockport Tabitha 2-Strap Heeled Sandals . "They have a cushioned footbed and shock-absorbing heel so you can dance the night away in the club, and a 3-inch block heel with traction to keep you steady on your feet even if the ship's rocking a bit."

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

Reef-safe sunscreen SPF 40 against white background.

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. If you prefer a spray, try this option by Pacifica .

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 | Ultimate 2023 Checklist [With Printable PDF Download]

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

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

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

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

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

Clothes to Pack for a Cruise

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

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

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

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

Cruise Packing List - CLOTHES

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Accessories to Pack for a Cruise

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

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

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

Cruise Packing List - ACCESSORIES

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Toiletries to Pack for a Cruise

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

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

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

Cruise Packing List - TOILETRIES

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Electronics to Pack for a Cruise

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

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

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

Here are the items our family packs for each cruise.

Cruise Packing List - ELECTRONICS

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Health Items to Pack for a Cruise

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

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

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

Cruise Packing List - Health Items

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Money & Docs to Pack for a Cruise

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

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

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

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

Cruise Packing List - Money & Docs

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Extras to Pack for a Cruise

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

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

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

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

Cruise Packing List - Extras

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Getting Started

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

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

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

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

📋 Click Here to View Our Printable Cruise Packing List 📋

cruise line check list

Cruise Packing Tips and Advice

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

Check the Weather

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

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

How Many Nights Are You Away?

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

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

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

Are There Any Special Occasions or Themed Nights?

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

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

Make a Packing List Early

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

Choose the Right Luggage

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

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

Purchase Travel-Sized Items

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

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

What Electronics Should I Take?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Your Passport

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

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

Your Tickets and Travel Documents

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

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

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

Your Personal Details

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

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

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

Get Everything Together and Lay It Out

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

Pick Capsule Items

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

A sample capsule wardrobe for a cruise vacation could include:

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

Remove Anything Unnecessary

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

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

Consider Washing Clothes on the Road

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

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

Fold, Interfold, Bundle, or Roll?

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

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

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

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

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

Use Packing Cubes

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

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

Secure Your Liquids

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

Stuff Your Shoes

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

Take Sticky Notes

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

Other niche items you may not have thought of are:

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

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

Check the Airline Baggage Policy

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

Cabin Luggage

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

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

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

Checked Luggage

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

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

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

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

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

The 3-1-1 rule essentially means:

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

Never Check Essentials

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Travel List App

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

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

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

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

Packing List Checklist

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

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

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

Cruise Ship Mate

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

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

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

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

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

Cruise Card Control

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

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

Deck Director

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

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

The app is free for both iOS and Android devices.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Frequently Asked Questions

What should i pack for my cruise.

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

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

What can you not bring on a cruise?

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

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

How much cash should I bring on a cruise?

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

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

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About Amar Hussain

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

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Ultimate Cruise Packing Tips for First-Timers

By Carnival Cruise Line

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

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

friends getting ready to go paddleboarding together

Essential Documents

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

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

Carry-On Backpack

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

First-Aid Kit

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

Sun, Rain and Bug Protection

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

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

father and daughter happily ready to snorkel together

Comfortable Closed-Toed Sandals or Water Shoes

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

group of people playing volleyball at sportsquare onboard a carnival ship

Proper Attire for Dinner

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

group of friends watching an executive chef prepare his specialty dish

Light Jacket, Sweater, Sweatshirt or Wrap

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

two people enjoying a dive-in movie

Non-Surge Power Strip

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

Resealable Plastic Bags

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

Hanging Organizers

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

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

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

happy couple in a clean stateroom onboard a carnival ship

Additional Cruising Essentials

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

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

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

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

family having fun at the beach on a private island

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

Related articles

Plan for fun.

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

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

Erica Silverstein

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

cruise line check list

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

cruise line check list

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

cruise line check list

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

cruise line check list

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

cruise line check list

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

cruise line check list

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

cruise line check list

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

cruise line check list

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What not to pack for a cruise

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

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

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

Bottom line

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

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

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

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The Ultimate Cruise Packing List, Tips and Hacks

woman packing for a cruise with open suitcase

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

See text version of the cruise packing list

cruise packing checklist to print

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

woman packing for a cruise with open suitcase

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.

woman on cruise ship looking at the sea

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.

packed suitcase on a bed

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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Printable Cruise Packing List + What to Pack for a Cruise

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

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

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

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

cruise packing checklist

What to Pack For A Cruise

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

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

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

Cruise Tips

Things to Pack for a Cruise

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

1. Ziploc Bags

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

2. Backpack

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

3. Portable Charger

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

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

4. Waterproof Cell Case

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

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

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

Zip lining in Honduras

5. Power Strip for more outlets.

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

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

6. Over the Door Shoe Rack

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

7. Nightlight

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

8. Sunscreen + Extra Sunscreen

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

9. Bug spray

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

10. First Aid Kit + Medicine Bag

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

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

Cruise Packing Tips

5 helpful cruise packing tips to remember.

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

Cruise Packing Checklist

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

Essentials –

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

Clothing –

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

Electronics –

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

Toiletries –

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

Misc. / Optional

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

Caribbean Princess Life Preserver

More Great Cruise Tips

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

You’ve read all our tips on how to pack for a cruise. It’s time to download a copy of our Cruise Packing List and fill it in with everything you think you’ll need! Enter your name and email address below for immediate access –

Now that you know how to pack for a cruise, tell me – is there anything I forgot to add to our list?

Leave me a comment in the section below!

free printable cruise packing checklist

This post is in partnership with Princess Cruises. Thanks for supporting our sponsors so we can continue to provide family-friendly travel content to our readers. We appreciate it!

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

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

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

Such great recommendations!

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

Such a great idea, thanks!

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

That’s such a great idea!

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

Such a great idea! Thanks for sharing!

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The Only Cruise Packing List You’ll Ever Need

By Elissa Garay

Last updated: November 7th, 2023

Woman drinking champagne on a cruise

  • 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.

Couple walking on cruise deck

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

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

Women drinking wine while walking aboard Celebrity

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

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

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

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

Read: Expert Cruise Packing Tips

Undergarments & Sleepwear

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

Casual Daywear

casual clothes

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

Cruise packing list - smart casual

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

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

Evening Chic

Cruise packing list - 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.

Couple on a glacier excursion

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

Cruise packing list - beachwear

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.

Couple walking around Mykonos

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.

Couple hiking in Geiranger

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.

Couple on a boat ride in Copenhagen

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.

Couple buying souvenirs in Santorini

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.

Toiletries aboard Celebrity Cruises

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

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.

Couple reading a travel guide

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?

Couple taking a selfie

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.

Woman holding a camera on a boat

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

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

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

People enjoying an Alaska whale watching cruise with binoculars

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

What else do I need to pack for a cruise?

Cruise packing list - Sunset Bar

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.

Couple snorkeling in St Kitts

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

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

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

The Ultimate Cruise Packing Checklist

Couple with hand-carry luggage on a cruise

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

Read: What to Wear on a Cruise

  • Socks/stockings
  • Undershirts

Casual Attire

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

Formal Attire

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

Miscellaneous

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

Resort Deck aboard Celebrity Beyond

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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Printable Cruise Packing List (75 Best Things to Pack)

By: Author Kim Tate

Posted on Published: April 14, 2022

cruise packing list overlayed over cruise ocean image with text overlay

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

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

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

In this article:

What to Pack for Your Cruise

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

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

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

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

What Suitcase to Bring on a Cruise

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

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

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

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

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

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

woman with suitcases walking on cruise desk

Clothing & Accessories to Pack for a Cruise

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

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

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

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

woman wearing white shirt and black joggers on cruise ship

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

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

woman wearing dress and cardigan on cruise ship stairway

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Best Shoes for a Cruise

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What Toiletries to Bring on a Cruise

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

Let’s look at the basics:

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

And a few other items you may want to include:

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

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

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

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

cruise cabin on ncl cruise ship

Cruise Port Day Bag Items

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

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

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

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

girl snorkeling in caribbean gopro photo

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

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

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

mom and daughter wearing sunglasses at beach

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

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

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

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

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

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

Cruise Essentials for Your Cruise Packing Checklist

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

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

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

cruise card lanyards hanging

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.

shoe organizer used on cruise ship

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

usb ports charger on cruise ship plug outlet

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

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

magnetic hooks are useful for cruise ship walls

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

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

motion sickness medicine bag to pack for cruise ship

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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!

cruise packing list overlayed over cruise ocean image with text overlay

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Packing List for Disney Cruises

Packing List for Alaskan and Canadian Cruises Packing List for Australia and New Zealand Cruises Packing List for Bahamian and Caribbean Cruises Packing List for Baja, Pacific Coast and Mexican Riviera Cruises Packing List for Bermuda Cruises Packing List for European Cruises Packing List for Hawaiian Cruises Packing List for Panama Canal Cruises Packing List for Transatlantic Cruises

Packing List for Alaskan and Canadian Cruises

Embarkation day basics.

Pack these items in a day bag to keep with you, as your luggage may not arrive at your stateroom until a few hours after the ship leaves port:

  • Medication (in their original containers)
  • Passport and/or required citizenship documentation
  • Camera and accessories (batteries, memory card, etc.)
  • Extra prescription glasses or contact lenses
  • Sunscreen or hat
  • Swimsuit and cover-up

Alaskan and Canadian Weather

The average summer temperatures in Alaska can range from a high of 80 degrees Fahrenheit to an average low of 45 degrees Fahrenheit. The average temperature in Canada can range from a high of 80 degrees Fahrenheit to an average low of 62 degrees Fahrenheit. Layering is recommended, so pack accordingly. The pools aboard the cruise ship will be open and are heated if the temperature falls below 75 degrees Fahrenheit.

Attire and Accessories

Here is our suggested list of things to pack in your luggage:

  • Winter wear: gloves, hat, coat, boots, sweatshirt, etc.
  • Waterproof and windproof coat
  • Pants or jeans
  • Sturdy footwear (boots or rubber-sole shoes)
  • Umbrella or poncho
  • Dinner attire (see below)

Dining Attire

Disney Cruise Line ships feature an array of diverse dining experiences, from casual to upscale. Be sure to follow the dress code for your restaurant:

  • Main Dining – Dining attire is cruise casual in all 3 main dining restaurants, meaning no swimwear or tank tops. Guests often like to dress up, but this is optional.
  • Adult Exclusive Dining – Adult-exclusive restaurants aboard Disney Cruise Line ships are elegant dining experiences and Guests are requested to dress in a manner consistent with the restaurant’s ambiance. Formal or semi-formal attire is recommended. Also permitted is dress-casual attire with a polished look, such as dress pants, jeans in good condition, collared shirts, dressy tops and lifestyle shoes. For brunch at Palo and Palo Steakhouse, dress shorts are acceptable. Clothing such as T-shirts, swimwear and sports attire are not permitted.
  • Themed Nights – On 7-night sailings and longer cruises, the ship offers themed nights—including a formal night—and you're encouraged to dress up and participate in the evening's festivities.

Check the Disney Cruise Line Navigator App to find attire advice for each night's dinner.

What Not to Pack

Everyone on board a Disney ship must comply with specific safety guidelines mandated by US Customs and Port Security. This includes not packing certain items.

Please DO NOT bring:

  • Firearms and ammunition, any kind of knife, sword, dagger, bullwhip or any other type of weapon. These items are not allowed on the ship under any circumstances. Guests found in possession of any weapons or similar prohibited items on their person or in their baggage may be denied boarding and are subject to severe legal penalties.
  • Homemade, precooked or other perishable items.
  • Irons, bottle warmers, sporting equipment, balloons, candles, musical instruments, illegal drugs inclusive of medically prescribed and synthetic marijuana.
  • Coolers, except those carrying medications, baby food or items related to dietary constraints.

Prohibited Items FAQ

Important Information for Alaskan Cruises

  • The Pixar Pals Party takes place in the ship's atrium.
  • There are no fireworks on Alaska sailings.

Packing List for Australia and New Zealand Cruises

Pack the following essential items in a day bag to keep with you, as there may be a delay in your luggage arriving at your stateroom after the ship leaves port:

  • Camera and accessories (including batteries and memory card)
  • Sunscreen and hat
  • A lanyard to carry your “Key to The World” card 
  • Autograph book or anything else you’d like Captain Mickey and his pals to sign

Attire, Accessories and Stateroom Extras

We suggest packing the following:

  • Shorts/sundresses
  • Jeans/pants
  • Sandals 
  • Closed-toe sneakers/walking shoes with rubber soles (for Port Adventures) 
  • Sports/workout attire
  • Windbreaker/rain jacket
  • Sweater and other layering pieces
  • A night light for little ones or those who get up frequently at night
  • Dinner attire and dress shoes (see below)
  • Main Dining – Dining attire is cruise casual in all 3 main dining restaurants, meaning no swimwear or tank tops. Guests often like to dress in semi-formal attire, but this is optional.
  • Adult Exclusive Dining – Adult-exclusive restaurants aboard Disney Cruise Line ships are elegant dining experiences, and Guests are requested to dress in a manner consistent with the restaurant’s ambiance. Formal or semi-formal attire is recommended. Also permitted is dress-casual attire with a polished look, such as dress pants, jeans in good condition, collared shirts, dressy tops and lifestyle shoes. For brunch at Palo and Palo Steakhouse, dress shorts are acceptable. Clothing such as T-shirts, swimwear and sports attire are not permitted.
  • Themed Nights  – On most cruises, the ship offers themed nights. Guests are encouraged to dress in costume or themed apparel while participating in the evening's festivities.

Check the Disney Cruise Line Navigator app to find attire advice for each night's dinner.

  • Firearms and ammunition, any kind of knife, sword, dagger, bullwhip or any other type of weapon. These items are not allowed on the ship under any circumstance. Guests found in possession of any weapons or similar prohibited items on their person or in their baggage may be denied boarding and are subject to severe legal penalties.

Packing List for Bahamian and Caribbean Cruises

  • Jeans or pants
  • Sandals or sneakers (rubber-sole shoes for Port Adventures)
  • Sweater or other clothes you can layer

In winter, you may also want to bring:

  • Rain jacket
  • Sweater or other layering pieces
  • Closed-toe footwear

Packing List for Baja, Pacific Coast and Mexican Riviera Cruises

Everyone on board a Disney cruise must comply with specific safety guidelines mandated by US Customs and Port Security. This includes not packing certain items.

Packing List for Bermuda Cruises

Bermuda weather.

The average summer temperatures in Bermuda can range from a high of 84 degrees Fahrenheit to an average low of 76 degrees Fahrenheit.

  • Sweater or other clothing you can layer
  • Themed Nights – On 7-night and longer cruises, the ship offers themed nights—including a formal night—and you're encouraged to dress up and participate in the evening's festivities.

Packing List for European Cruises

Dress comfortably for vacation—plus bring the appropriate attire for such activities as dinners and Port Adventures.

In addition, due to recent adjustments in our cruise experience emphasizing new health and safety measures, all Guests must bring the following:

  • Guests are encouraged to pack a personal supply of alcohol-based hand sanitizer to carry for their convenience. Hand sanitizer stations also are available throughout the ship.
  • Long skirt and shirts covering the shoulders (required for entry into some religious venues)
  • A portable backup battery for your mobile device
  • Main Dining – Dining attire is cruise casual in all 3 main dining restaurants, meaning no swimwear or tank tops. Guests often like to dress up more when dining in Lumiere’s—but this is optional.

Everyone on board a Disney cruise must comply with specific safety guidelines mandated by Government authorities. This includes not packing certain items.

Travel Adapters

UK Guests: Please note that all of the sockets on board are equipped with a combination of 110V and European 220V outlets. USB plugs are available in all staterooms, but should you wish to use the European socket, please make sure your devices are compatible and bring your own UK-to-European travel adapter on board.

Packing List for Hawaiian Cruises

Packing list for panama canal cruises, packing list for transatlantic cruises.

  • Main Dining – Dining attire is cruise casual in all 3 main dining restaurants, meaning no swimwear or tank tops. Guests often like to dress up more when dining, but this is optional.
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MI.PAGES.Prepare For Your Cruise 2018

Everything you need before the holiday of a lifetime.

Prepare for your cruise.

  • Already Purchased your Cruise?
  • Log In to My NCL Account
  • Online Check-in
  • Required Travel Documents
  • What to Bring
  • Luggage + Luggage Tags
  • What Not to Bring
  • Cruise Fare Includes
  • Boarding Checklist
  • Transfers & Getting to the Pier
  • Boarding Times
  • The Boarding Process
  • Ship Guides
  • Money Matters
  • Onboard Credit Certificates
  • Norwegian Gift Voucher
  • Family Activities for Everyone
  • Youth Programmes
  • Age Requirements to Travel
  • Accessible Cruising
  • Pre-book Packages
  • Dining Packages
  • Beverage Packages
  • Internet Packages
  • Special Occasion Packages
  • Arcade Package
  • Policies & Medical
  • Booking Airfare
  • Onboard Terminology

What to Pack

What to Pack What to Wear

On a Norwegian cruise, you travel from destination to remarkable destination - and only unpack once. That said, cruisers tend to pack twice as many clothes they need.

Electronics

Remember all of your tech stuff: tablets, chargers, cameras, spare memory cards, batteries and power converters

The current on board is 110 volts & 220V AC. However, some high-voltage hair dryers, electric rollers and electric razors may require a converter

Laundry & Dry Cleaning: For your convenience, we offer laundry and dry-cleaning services. Express, same-day service is also available. Just complete the order form in your stateroom and your stateroom steward will pick up your laundry and return it to you clean and folded. Please note that laundry is not self-service

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Each guest is allowed two pieces of checked luggage with a 50-pound maximum each, same as airlines. Luggage should be clearly labelled with your name, address and contact number.

Bring an Additional Small Bag: It may take a few hours after embarkation for your luggage to be delivered to your stateroom. Likewise, suitcases are collected on the last night of your cruise. To avoid any complications, be sure to bring a small bag such as a backpack for carrying any necessary medication, valuables, important documents and need-to-have items.

Luggage Tags

You may find and print your luggage tags on the last page of your eDocs. For your convenience, we recommend that your luggage tags be placed on your bags prior to arrival at the port.

What Not To Bring on Board

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Guests are not allowed to bring on board alcoholic beverages (except for wine & champagne which is subject to a corkage fee ), firearms, weapons of any kind, ammunition, explosive substances or any goods of a dangerous nature, nor animals of any kind, except service or guide animals.

Corkage Fee is not applicable to guest with beverage package.

Passengers should not bring the following items onboard any Norwegian Cruise Line ship:

  • Drones (Game Flying Device) Guests are not permitted to bring drones onboard for safety of other guests, as well as the welfare of the vessel.
  • Samsung Galaxy Note7 In light of recent safety issues with the Samsung Galaxy Note7, we are asking our guests who own this model to please avoid travelling with this mobile device. The Federal Aviation Administration has banned the Samsung Galaxy Note7 from all air travel, and until further notice, this device will be restricted from all Norwegian Cruise Line ships. Fire is one of the greatest threats at sea and due to the safety concerns these devices present, if one is found in a guest's possession or unattended in a stateroom onboard, our policy instructs the crew to confiscate the device for safekeeping. The device will remain in our possession, in a safe, monitored location, for the duration of the cruise. Guests can reclaim their device at the conclusion of the cruise from the reception desk.
  • Alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverages of any kind including water, soda and juices* For more information read our FAQ about "Can I bring water or soda on board?".
  • Unsealed food items will not be allowed onboard.
  • Firearms, weapons of any kind , ammunition, explosive substances or any goods of a dangerous nature
  • Irons / Ironing Boards and Steamers Guests are not permitted to bring and use their own irons or steamers onboard. Norwegian Cruise Line carries a limited number of irons and ironing boards which can be loaned to guests for a few hours at a time. They can be requested through housekeeping or Guest Services Desk. Irons and steamers would both be taken from guests at embarkation and returned at the end of the sailing.
  • Animals of any kind , except service or guide animals, provided the passenger notifies Carrier prior to the cruise of his intention to bring such animal and agrees to take sole responsibility for any expense, damage, injuries or losses associated with or caused by such animal.
  • Large Batteries, Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons (EPIRB), ham radios, satellite phones, transformers, lasers and laser pointers are not allowed onboard.

For a full list of items that are prohibited onboard, please CLICK HERE

Included in Your Cruise Fare

In your stateroom.

All staterooms feature a TV, safe, hair dryer and bath products as well as a mini-bar, which are pay upon consumption. Room service is available from 5 am to midnight (subject to convenience charge), and all stateroom-to-stateroom calls are free. Guests in The Haven Suites can enjoy exclusive access to The Haven Courtyard, Restaurant & Lounge, 24-hour butler service, priority restaurant reservations, Bliss Collection bedding and much more. Guests staying in Studios have access to the Studio Lounge.

Dining & Entertainment

You'll find complimentary dining throughout the ship, including two main dining rooms, a buffet, coffee bar and more. Select ships feature a third main dining room, 24-hour dining venue, outdoor buffet, and a pool bar and grill. Complimentary entertainment, from live bands to comedy acts, is available in all ships. For a nominal fee per person, you can also enjoy award-winning entertainment in many of our ships. For more information on what will be available during your sailing, login to My NCL .

Poolside & Activities

Enjoy complimentary beach towel service as you lounge poolside, go for a swim or relax in a hot tub. Or take part in any number of onboard sports activities, even work up a sweat in the fitness centre, featuring all the latest equipment.

  • Accommodation
  • Transportation to some of the most beautiful places on earth via cruise ship
  • Dedicated Kids & Teen (ages 3-17) programming & spaces during at sea days until 10:30 pm and from departure until 10:30 pm during port days
  • Meals in one of our many complimentary dining venues
  • 24-hour Dining venue (on select ships)
  • Room service menu items (convenience charge may apply)
  • Outdoor Buffet (on select ships)
  • Pool Bar and Grill (on select ships)
  • Coffee Bar (regular coffee and pastries included, speciality coffees at nominal extra charge)
  • Iced Tea, some juices in the buffet (for breakfast), regular coffee, tea and ice water
  • All entertainment onboard (with the exception of dinner and lunch theatre entertainment)
  • Art Auctions
  • Poolside activities
  • Access to fitness facilities
  • Select onboard presentations
  • Sports Court activities
  • Use of outdoor pools and hot tubs
  • In-stateroom TV programming (except for on-demand movies)
  • Phone calls onboard the ship (stateroom to stateroom)
  • Use of private Studio Lounge if staying in Studio accommodations on Norwegian Breakaway, Norwegian Epic, Pride of America, Norwegian Getaway and Norwegian Escape
  • Suite Guests receive additional amenities, based on the category of accommodation.

The following items are not included in the cruise fare:

  • Service Charges/Gratuities
  • Meals in Speciality Restaurants
  • Alcoholic Beverages
  • Sodas and some other non-alcoholic beverages
  • Spa and Salon Services
  • Exercise classes
  • Dining Entertainment
  • Transfers (unless pre-purchased with air/sea packages)
  • Hotel Stays pre-/post-cruise (unless pre-purchased)
  • Shore Excursions
  • Photography
  • Internet Access
  • Baby Sitting Services
  • Speciality Onboard Seminars
  • Art purchases
  • Gift shop purchases
  • Video Arcade
  • Phone calls off the ship
  • Wi/Fi & Satellite connection for tablets, phones/mobile devices
  • Laundry Services
  • Use of the Medical Centre
  • Government taxes, port expenses, and fees
  • Convenience Charge for Room Service (does not apply to The Haven and Norwegian Suites)

[Ozcruising.com.au]

  • Travel Insurance
  • Help Centre

[Ozcruising.com.au]

Any questions?

Mon-Fri 9AM - 5PM

Depart From

Cruise line, departure date.

cruise line check list

Cruise Packing List - PDF and Excel Checklist

cruise line check list

  • Australian Departures
  • International Departures

cruise line check list

Counting down to your cruise holiday? It’s never too early to start thinking about what to pack. With our ultimate cruise packing checklist, you can simply tick off the items and relax knowing you are prepared for the trip of a lifetime.

Whether it’s your first or your hundredth cruise holiday, you always face the same packing conundrum: what goes and what stays? You want to pack light, but at the same time, you want to be prepared for all the fun and activities the ship and on-shore destinations have to offer. To help you, we’ve put together the ultimate cruise packing checklist. If you need it, it’s on the list. Plus we’ve included savvy cruiser packing tips to help you pack light and pack smart.

Best of all, you can print out the checklist as a handy printable PDF or spreadsheet, so you can tick as you pack!

Download Cruise Packing List PDF

Before you begin

Every cruise ship is different, so here are a few quick things you need to check before you start:

What’s the dress code policy on your ship? Some cruises have a strict dress policy, especially for dinners and events. Typically, casual dress is worn during the day and a semi-formal dress is recommended for the evenings. Some cruise ships require formal attire for evenings though, especially on the last night of the cruise. Don’t be caught without the right outfit – check before you pack.

Where will your cruise stop and for how long? Depending on the activities and climate at each port of call, you may need to pack a few extra items.

Every cruise ship has different activities, facilities and amenities. For example, some provide quality toiletries, whereas others stick to the basics. Becoming familiar with these things before you go will help you pack the right items. Check out our detailed ship articles for more information on your chosen cruise ship.

ULTIMATE PACKING CHECKLIST ESSENTIALS

Even if you forget everything else, DO NOT leave home without the following:

  • Power adapters
  • Mobile phone, plus charger
  • Camera, plus battery charger, spare batteries and memory cards
  • Laptop or tablet, plus charger
  • Portable music device, plus charger and headphones
  • Travel alarm clock
  • 3-way power plug, if you have lots of gadgets
  • Hairdryer, if you want more than the in-cabin hairdryer

Savvy Cruiser Tip: Always pack your passport, medical records, tickets, and other important documents in your daypack or carry-on luggage.

ELECTRONICS

Mobile phones, laptops, tablets, e-readers and digital cameras are part of everyday life. But when you consider all the things that come with them, it can be easier to leave them at home! Think about which gadgets you really want on your cruise.

With today’s cruise ships, you really don’t need to pack much entertainment! But here are a few things you might want to add to your list.

  • Journal, diary or notepad
  • Playing cards

Packing Tip: To save space, invest in an e-reader or visit the onboard library. You will also find playing cards and other board games onboard.

Your cabin will provide soap, shampoo and conditioner but if you have favourites, be sure to pack them.

  • Sea sickness tablets
  • Medications and supplements
  • After-sun lotion
  • Mosquito repellent
  • After-bite cream
  • Hand sanitiser
  • Toothbrush, toothpaste, mouthwash, floss
  • Razorblades, shaving cream
  • Comb / hairbrush
  • Glasses, contact lenses and cleaning products
  • Feminine hygiene products
  • Shampoo and conditioner
  • Face products

Savvy Cruiser Tip: Ships will sell a range of toiletries, including razors, toothpaste etc., in case you run out.

EXTRA BITS & PIECES

There are all sorts of things you can pack to make your cruise more enjoyable and relaxing. Bear in mind that most ships have a laundry service and dry cleaning, but don’t expect it to be cheap! Some of the bigger ships offer self-service washing machines and dryers.

  • Stain remover
  • Ziplock bags
  • Luggage locks
  • Water bottle
  • Shoe polish
  • Eye mask       

Savvy Cruiser Tip: No need to bring beach or bath towels – these are all provided onboard!

You never know what weather or activities you might get on a ship or in port. Men, women and kids should pack the following items to be prepared for everything!

  • Swimwear and cover-ups
  • Exercise clothes
  • Jumper or cardigan
  • Long-sleeved top
  • Raincoat / windproof jacket
  • Gloves, scarves, hat (for cold destinations)

Be ready to move in shoes for every occasion, whether you’re lazing by the pool, beating your family on the sports court, or learning new dance moves!

  • Sports shoes
  • Walking shoes
  • Thongs / flip flops
  • Formal shoes

MEN'S CLOTHES

To get the most out of your wardrobe, mix and match as much as possible. Pack light fabrics with neutral colours that go together easily.

  • Light trousers
  • T-shirts / polos

Smart Casual

  • Smart pants
  • Business suit
  • Formal shirt

Savvy Cruiser Tip: Check whether your ship offers a tuxedo hire service.

WOMEN’S CLOTHES

Choose versatile styles and neutral colours that you can easily mix and match throughout the cruise to keep your bag light.

  • Smarter dresses
  • Trouser suits
  • Smart jacket
  • Evening gown
  • Cocktail dress
  • Matching scarf

Savvy Cruiser Tip: Accessorise! With a choice of scarves and jewellery, you can get more from your wardrobe.

  • Clothes for all weather, as above
  • Travel backpack
  • Travel journal and pencils
  • Electronic games device, plus charger/batteries
  • Child’s prescription medication (in carry-on bag)
  • Child’s thermometer
  • Favourite cuddly toy / blanket
  • Swimming floaties
  • Night light
  • Kids’ toiletries (see list above)

Savvy Cruiser Tip: Pack a kid’s travel backpack full of snacks, activities and swimwear so you can explore while waiting for your bags to arrive in your cabin.

KBABY AND TODDLER ITEMS

  • Clothes for all weather
  • Bottles and kids’ cups
  • Baby formula / food

Savvy Cruiser Tip: Check whether you can hire baby equipment onboard.

SHORE EXCURSIONS

Think ahead and pack the right items for every shore excursion.

  • Phrasebooks
  • Money pouch
  • Any specific items required by your shore activity

Ready to get started? Print out this checklist and tick the items as you pack!

AN IMPORTANT NOTE: Each ship provides guidelines around what items are not allowed onboard the ships, which will include items like irons, candles, explosives, flammable liquids, weapons, power boards and extension cords. Be sure to check these guidelines. The local port authority will put your baggage through customs checks and have the right to confiscate any items at their discretion. Always be ready to declare items.

All Things Cruise

Alphabetical List of Cruise Lines

Cruise lines.

Cruise Ship from the Beach

You may also browse by cruise line type .

  • AmaWaterways
  • Avalon Waterways
  • Azamara Cruises
  • Carnival Cruise Lines
  • Celebrity Cruises
  • Costa Cruises
  • Cruise West
  • Crystal Cruises
  • Cunard Line
  • Disney Cruise Line
  • Festiva Sailing Vacations
  • Holland America Line (HAL)
  • Imperial Travel
  • Island Cruises
  • Majestic America Line
  • MSC Cruises
  • Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL)
  • Oceania Cruises
  • P & O Cruises
  • P & O Cruises Australia
  • Princess Cruises
  • Regent Seven Seas
  • Royal Caribbean (RCL)
  • Sea Cloud Cruises
  • SeaDream Yacht Club
  • Star Clippers
  • Star Cruises
  • Steps of Paul Cruises
  • Swan Hellenic Cruises
  • Thomson Cruises
  • Uniworld River Cruise Collection
  • Viking River Cruises
  • Voyages of Discovery (fka Discovery World Cruises)
  • Windstar Cruises

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Packing Tips & Checklist

We’ve all been there. One of the pesky nuisances of any journey is leaving behind something you needed. It could be an item you can easily replace, like a hairbrush, a crucial document that will cripple or even cancel your plans, or even a family member (remember Home Alone?)!

Even the most seasoned traveler can forget the basics when they don't have packing tips & checklist . That’s why we have put this handy list together for you. Before you go on your next vacation, whether by cruise, airline, or rental car, make sure you’ve taken care of these travel essentials. But first, be sure to download the Cruise Planners Mobile App, free from Apple or Android ,  to access all your travel information as well as communicate directly with your Cruise Planners advisor anytime. 

The Bare Travel Necessities

Be sure to pack and keep these important documents within reach at all times.

  • Driver’s license/ Other government photo ID
  • Travel Insurance Policy Number and Contact Phone Number 
  • Birth certificate
  • Boarding pass
  • Passport/Visas
  • Travel Documents/reservation itinerary
  • Credit or ATM Cards/Cash
  • Immunization records

Travel Basics

Pack these essentials along so you won’t get stuck paying inflated prices at cruise ports of call, on board, or at your vacation destination . 

  • Toiletries (shampoo, conditioner, lotion, toothpaste, contact solution, etc.)
  • Sunscreen and aloe
  • Prescription/over-the-counter medications
  • Cameras/camcorders/memory cards 
  • Cellphone/electronics chargers (make sure you check your cell-phone’s roaming charges when leaving the U.S.) 
  • Plastic storage bags 
  • Alarm clock
  • Electric converters/adapters or multiple plug outlet 
  • First aid kit
  • Hand sanitizer 
  • Nail clipper

Getting Carried Away 

What goes in your carry-on is both an exercise in logic and an exercise in restraint. You don’t want to pack large bottles of liquids that will only be confiscated at the airport. On the other hand, you might want a convenient outfit swap for that “worst case scenario” of an airline misplacing your luggage. If you want to hit the pool as soon as you arrive, keep your bathing suit in your carry-on. But if you’re traveling from a warm climate to a cool one, pack a scarf or sweater. Here are the items we’d put in our carry-on luggage. And of course, those of you who need to stay plugged in at all times will need to make room for your electronics (and their chargers).

  • Casual change of clothes
  • Formal change of clothes
  • Extra pair of shoes
  • Toiletries and necessities
  • Important medications
  • Bathing suit and sunscreen
  • Entertainment or snacks for kids 
  • Laptop/tablet
  • Charging devices for electronics

Luggage Shipping: Ship Bags Worry Free with Luggage Free

Luggage Free is a specialty service offering travelers the ability to ship luggage ahead to any destination worldwide, allowing you the ability to avoid the inconvenience of carrying, checking and claiming luggage – even going through customs. The luggage shipping service is guaranteed, allowing the traveler to avoid unnecessary aggravation and save time – safely and in style. Let Luggage Free be your valet to your hotel, golf resort, cruise or nearly any other vacation spot worldwide. They ship bags to and from, so you don't have to. Request more information from your Cruise Planners Travel Advisor or visit Luggage Free .

Destination Known  

Now that you know where you’re going and what you’ll be doing once you get there, you’ll need to pack accordingly. Keep in mind what activities you have planned, and the weather conditions during your travel. Some trips may take you through multiple climates, so bring a variety of clothes if needed.

  • Check weather conditions prior to traveling
  • Plan outfits for each activity or day
  • If cruising, plan for formal dinners and day outfits (check with your cruise line about formal or themed nights, which may impact your wardrobe choices) 
  • Always pack some extras, you never know!
  • Comfy shoes such as a pair of sneakers are a must-have when sightseeing

Don’t forget hats, socks, gloves, and other accessories. It can get chilly once the sun goes down in some climates; pack accordingly.

Extended Vacations 

If so, here are some items that will help keep your vacation running smoothly if you are staying for an extended period of time. 

  • Foldable shoe organizer for extra storage
  • Clothes hampers/bags
  • Extra hangers
  • Laundry detergent
  • Foldable duffle bag/pack souvenirs/pool bag or additional storage

Traveling with Kids 

Your little ones may need special attention or entertainment during your trip. Be sure to pack those extras for them!

  • Portable gaming electronics
  • Tablet with movies and games. Don't forget the headset!
  • Walkie talkies
  • Inflatable pool/beach toys
  • Books/puzzle books
  • To-go snacks and beverages
  • Children’s medications

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FinanceBuzz

FinanceBuzz

16 Things You Must Do Every Time You Board a Cruise Ship

Posted: August 22, 2023 | Last updated: August 22, 2023

<p> Planning for a cruise can be a year-long event. By the time you've booked your journey with one of the <a href="https://financebuzz.com/top-travel-credit-cards?utm_source=msn&utm_medium=feed&synd_slide=1&synd_postid=13047&synd_backlink_title=top+travel+credit+cards&synd_backlink_position=1&synd_slug=top-travel-credit-cards">top travel credit cards</a> and boarding day arrives you might not know what to do first.  </p> <p> Should you visit the buffet? Get situated in your cabin? Plunge into the pool?  </p> <p> Start your ocean journey on the right foot by following our checklist of 16 things to do as soon as you board your cruise ship. </p> <p>  <a href="https://financebuzz.com/top-travel-credit-cards?utm_source=msn&utm_medium=feed&synd_slide=1&synd_postid=13047&synd_backlink_title=Compare+the+best+travel+credit+cards+for+nearly+free+travel&synd_backlink_position=2&synd_slug=top-travel-credit-cards">Compare the best travel credit cards for nearly free travel</a>  </p>

Planning for a cruise can be a year-long event. By the time you've booked your journey with one of the top travel credit cards and boarding day arrives you might not know what to do first.

Should you visit the buffet? Get situated in your cabin? Plunge into the pool?

Start your ocean journey on the right foot by following our checklist of 16 things to do as soon as you board your cruise ship.

Compare the best travel credit cards for nearly free travel

<p> Tackle the first important step before you board your cruise ship and pack a carry-on bag full of essentials you need to access during your first day on board the night before you leave.  </p> <p> Include a swimsuit, change of clothes, essential medications, a toothbrush, and any activities to keep you occupied during lulls in the action. </p> <p>  <p class=""><a href="https://financebuzz.com/extra-newsletter-signup-testimonials-synd?utm_source=msn&utm_medium=feed&synd_slide=2&synd_postid=13047&synd_backlink_title=Get+expert+advice+on+making+more+money+-+sent+straight+to+your+inbox.&synd_backlink_position=3&synd_slug=extra-newsletter-signup-testimonials-synd">Get expert advice on making more money - sent straight to your inbox.</a></p>  </p>

Pack a carry-on bag

Tackle the first important step before you board your cruise ship and pack a carry-on bag full of essentials you need to access during your first day on board the night before you leave.

Include a swimsuit, change of clothes, essential medications, a toothbrush, and any activities to keep you occupied during lulls in the action.

Get expert advice on making more money - sent straight to your inbox.

<p> You’ll need to present identification to board your cruise ship. As you’re putting together your carry-on bag, double-check your driver’s license and passport if needed.  </p> <p> These things should be secure within your carry-on but easy to access quickly.  </p>

Verify that travel documents are in order

You’ll need to present identification to board your cruise ship. As you’re putting together your carry-on bag, double-check your driver’s license and passport if needed.

These things should be secure within your carry-on but easy to access quickly.

<p> Most major cruise lines have mobile apps you can access throughout your trip.  </p> <p> While you’re waiting to board, scroll through the first day’s schedule as listed on the app to find out: </p> <ul> <li>Where you can find lunch  </li><li>What time the muster drill will be at  </li><li>How to access your cabin  </li><li>Whether any special events are planned for the evening  </li> </ul> <p>  <p><a href="https://financebuzz.com/southwest-booking-secrets-55mp?utm_source=msn&utm_medium=feed&synd_slide=4&synd_postid=13047&synd_backlink_title=7+Nearly+Secret+Things+to+Do+If+You+Fly+Southwest&synd_backlink_position=4&synd_slug=southwest-booking-secrets-55mp">7 Nearly Secret Things to Do If You Fly Southwest</a></p>  </p>

Check out the schedule on the cruise app

Most major cruise lines have mobile apps you can access throughout your trip.

While you’re waiting to board, scroll through the first day’s schedule as listed on the app to find out:

  • Where you can find lunch
  • What time the muster drill will be at
  • How to access your cabin
  • Whether any special events are planned for the evening

7 Nearly Secret Things to Do If You Fly Southwest

<p> Once you’ve safely boarded the ship, make your way to your cabin and start to get situated.  </p> <p> Your bags might not be waiting for you yet, but you should be able to access the room. Have a look around and report any concerns to the staff ASAP.  </p>

Find your cabin

Once you’ve safely boarded the ship, make your way to your cabin and start to get situated.

Your bags might not be waiting for you yet, but you should be able to access the room. Have a look around and report any concerns to the staff ASAP.

<p> Get ahead of the tedious task of unpacking by sorting through whatever you brought in your carry-on bag.  </p> <p> You’ll have plenty more to organize once your bags arrive, so you might as well give your future self a helping hand by unpacking what you can now instead of adding to any chaos later. </p>

Unpack your carry-on

Get ahead of the tedious task of unpacking by sorting through whatever you brought in your carry-on bag.

You’ll have plenty more to organize once your bags arrive, so you might as well give your future self a helping hand by unpacking what you can now instead of adding to any chaos later.

<p> If you purchased an internet package for your journey, take the time to log into the system and figure out how well it works.  </p> <p> If you didn’t buy a Wi-Fi package ahead of time but find that you can’t live without it, now is your chance to sign up. </p> <p>  <p class=""><a href="https://financebuzz.com/top-no-interest-credit-cards?utm_source=msn&utm_medium=feed&synd_slide=7&synd_postid=13047&synd_backlink_title=Pay+no+interest+until+nearly+2025+with+these+credit+cards&synd_backlink_position=5&synd_slug=top-no-interest-credit-cards">Pay no interest until nearly 2025 with these credit cards</a></p>  </p>

Find out if the internet works

If you purchased an internet package for your journey, take the time to log into the system and figure out how well it works.

If you didn’t buy a Wi-Fi package ahead of time but find that you can’t live without it, now is your chance to sign up.

Pay no interest until nearly 2025 with these credit cards

<p> You might still have some phone service before you embark, but it’s bound to get spotty as soon as you leave the port.  </p> <p> Forgetting to turn on airplane mode can mean racking up roaming charges without even noticing you’re doing so. Set your phone to airplane mode now instead of leaving it until later.  </p>

Set your phone to airplane mode

You might still have some phone service before you embark, but it’s bound to get spotty as soon as you leave the port.

Forgetting to turn on airplane mode can mean racking up roaming charges without even noticing you’re doing so. Set your phone to airplane mode now instead of leaving it until later.

<p> If you were waiting until you checked in to change into your swimsuit and gear up for a fun first day of hanging around the pool, now’s your chance. </p> <p> You’ve made it on board, so feel free to slip into something a bit more comfortable.  </p>

Dress for the day’s events

If you were waiting until you checked in to change into your swimsuit and gear up for a fun first day of hanging around the pool, now’s your chance.

You’ve made it on board, so feel free to slip into something a bit more comfortable.

<p> Hoping to spend at least some of your first day exploring your cruise ship’s decks? No one wants to kick off their vacation with a sunburn. </p> <p> Get ahead of the sun by applying sunscreen before you leave your cabin for the first time. </p> <p>  <p class=""><a href="https://financebuzz.com/top-cash-back-credit-cards?utm_source=msn&utm_medium=feed&synd_slide=10&synd_postid=13047&synd_backlink_title=Earn+up+to+5%25+cash+back+when+you+shop+with+these+leading+credit+cards&synd_backlink_position=6&synd_slug=top-cash-back-credit-cards">Earn up to 5% cash back when you shop with these leading credit cards</a></p>  </p>

Apply sunscreen

Hoping to spend at least some of your first day exploring your cruise ship’s decks? No one wants to kick off their vacation with a sunburn.

Get ahead of the sun by applying sunscreen before you leave your cabin for the first time.

Earn up to 5% cash back when you shop with these leading credit cards

<p> Cruise ships are large enough that you likely won’t feel any dramatic rocking as you sail unless you encounter a storm. Still, people who tend to get motion sick on dry land can get seasick on cruise ships.  </p> <p> If you’re one of those people, don’t forget to take anti-nausea medication so you can explore the ship without getting too dizzy. </p>

Take anti-nausea medication

Cruise ships are large enough that you likely won’t feel any dramatic rocking as you sail unless you encounter a storm. Still, people who tend to get motion sick on dry land can get seasick on cruise ships.

If you’re one of those people, don’t forget to take anti-nausea medication so you can explore the ship without getting too dizzy.

<p> Cruise lines provide passengers with comprehensive safety training before the ship embarks on its journey.  </p> <p> All passengers are required to attend the safety training — called a muster drill — and wear their life jackets for the duration of the drill.  </p> <p> You can expect the muster drill to happen 30 to 90 minutes before embarking, but check your ship’s schedule for exact details.</p>

Attend the mandatory muster drill

Cruise lines provide passengers with comprehensive safety training before the ship embarks on its journey.

All passengers are required to attend the safety training — called a muster drill — and wear their life jackets for the duration of the drill.

You can expect the muster drill to happen 30 to 90 minutes before embarking, but check your ship’s schedule for exact details.

<p> Cruise ships are massive, so there are plenty of areas to explore, activities to find, and decks to get used to.  </p> <p> While you’re waiting for the mandatory muster drill, pull up a map of the ship on your cruise line’s app and start familiarizing yourself with the place you’ll call home for the next week or so.</p><p>  <p class=""><a href="https://financebuzz.com/1000-in-the-bank?utm_source=msn&utm_medium=feed&synd_slide=13&synd_postid=13047&synd_backlink_title=7+savvy+moves+when+you+have+%241%2C000+in+the+bank&synd_backlink_position=7&synd_slug=1000-in-the-bank">7 savvy moves when you have $1,000 in the bank</a></p>  </p>

Explore your surroundings

Cruise ships are massive, so there are plenty of areas to explore, activities to find, and decks to get used to.

While you’re waiting for the mandatory muster drill, pull up a map of the ship on your cruise line’s app and start familiarizing yourself with the place you’ll call home for the next week or so.

7 savvy moves when you have $1,000 in the bank

<p>Some cruises now host their muster drills entirely via their app instead of in-person safety training.  </p> <p> Find out if your cruise line requires an in-person drill or if you can complete an e-course instead, then take care of the course right away. </p>

Consider choosing an e-muster

Some cruises now host their muster drills entirely via their app instead of in-person safety training.

Find out if your cruise line requires an in-person drill or if you can complete an e-course instead, then take care of the course right away.

<p> You might need to make a reservation to enjoy the cruise line activities you’ve been most excited about, such as a spa day or meal at a fancy restaurant.  </p> <p> Hopefully, you signed up for events well in advance. If so, take a moment to verify that the details are in order. If you didn’t sign up early, you should be able to use your app to find any open spots. </p>

Double-check reservations — or make them in the first place

You might need to make a reservation to enjoy the cruise line activities you’ve been most excited about, such as a spa day or meal at a fancy restaurant.

Hopefully, you signed up for events well in advance. If so, take a moment to verify that the details are in order. If you didn’t sign up early, you should be able to use your app to find any open spots.

<p> There’s nothing quite like the rush of watching your ship pull away from the shoreline and head out to sea at the start of your grand adventure.  </p> <p> Document the moment by finding the ideal spot to watch the moment you leave port — you won’t want to miss it. </p> <p>  <p class=""><a href="https://financebuzz.com/top-signs-of-financial-fitness?utm_source=msn&utm_medium=feed&synd_slide=16&synd_postid=13047&synd_backlink_title=5+Signs+You%E2%80%99re+Doing+Better+Financially+Than+the+Average+American&synd_backlink_position=8&synd_slug=top-signs-of-financial-fitness-2">5 Signs You’re Doing Better Financially Than the Average American</a></p>  </p>

Find the best spot to enjoy embarking

There’s nothing quite like the rush of watching your ship pull away from the shoreline and head out to sea at the start of your grand adventure.

Document the moment by finding the ideal spot to watch the moment you leave port — you won’t want to miss it.

5 Signs You’re Doing Better Financially Than the Average American

<p> You’ve already unpacked your carry-on. Next up, unpack your luggage as soon as it arrives in your cabin.  </p> <p> The sooner you check this tedious task off your list, the faster you can get to the cruise ship activities you’ve been looking forward to for so long.  </p>

Unpack the rest of your bags

You’ve already unpacked your carry-on. Next up, unpack your luggage as soon as it arrives in your cabin.

The sooner you check this tedious task off your list, the faster you can get to the cruise ship activities you’ve been looking forward to for so long.

<p>Follow this simple 16-step checklist to <a href="https://financebuzz.com/seniors-throw-money-away-tp?utm_source=msn&utm_medium=feed&synd_slide=18&synd_postid=13047&synd_backlink_title=avoid+wasting+money&synd_backlink_position=9&synd_slug=seniors-throw-money-away-tp">avoid wasting money</a> and enjoy every minute of your cruise, from the start of your journey to the end.</p><p>You’ve spent ages preparing for your cruise. Don’t let a second of it go to waste.</p> <p>  <p class=""><b>More from FinanceBuzz:</b></p> <ul> <li><a href="https://www.financebuzz.com/supplement-income-55mp?utm_source=msn&utm_medium=feed&synd_slide=18&synd_postid=13047&synd_backlink_title=7+things+to+do+if+you%E2%80%99re+barely+scraping+by+financially.&synd_backlink_position=10&synd_slug=supplement-income-55mp">7 things to do if you’re barely scraping by financially.</a></li> <li><a href="https://financebuzz.com/make-extra-money?utm_source=msn&utm_medium=feed&synd_slide=18&synd_postid=13047&synd_backlink_title=12+legit+ways+to+earn+extra+cash&synd_backlink_position=11&synd_slug=ways-to-make-extra-money">12 legit ways to earn extra cash</a><a href="https://financebuzz.com/ways-to-make-extra-money?utm_source=msn&utm_medium=feed&synd_slide=18&synd_postid=13047&synd_backlink_title=.&synd_backlink_position=12&synd_slug=ways-to-make-extra-money">.</a></li> <li><a href="https://financebuzz.com/offer/bypass/637?source=%2Flatest%2Fmsn%2Fslideshow%2Ffeed%2F&aff_id=1006&aff_sub=msn&aff_sub2=&aff_sub3=&aff_sub4=feed&aff_sub5=%7Bimpressionid%7D&aff_click_id=&aff_unique1=%7Baff_unique1%7D&aff_unique2=&aff_unique3=&aff_unique4=&aff_unique5=%7Baff_unique5%7D&rendered_slug=/latest/msn/slideshow/feed/&contentblockid=984&contentblockversionid=17466&ml_sort_id=&sorted_item_id=&widget_type=&cms_offer_id=637&keywords=&utm_source=msn&utm_medium=feed&synd_slide=18&synd_postid=13047&synd_backlink_title=Can+you+retire+early%3F+Take+this+quiz+and+find+out.&synd_backlink_position=13&synd_slug=offer/bypass/637">Can you retire early? Take this quiz and find out.</a></li> <li><a href="https://financebuzz.com/extra-newsletter-signup-testimonials-synd?utm_source=msn&utm_medium=feed&synd_slide=18&synd_postid=13047&synd_backlink_title=9+simple+ways+to+make+up+to+an+extra+%24200%2Fday&synd_backlink_position=14&synd_slug=extra-newsletter-signup-testimonials-synd">9 simple ways to make up to an extra $200/day</a></li> </ul>  </p>

Bottom line

Follow this simple 16-step checklist to avoid wasting money and enjoy every minute of your cruise, from the start of your journey to the end.

You’ve spent ages preparing for your cruise. Don’t let a second of it go to waste.

More from FinanceBuzz:

  • 7 things to do if you’re barely scraping by financially.
  • 12 legit ways to earn extra cash .
  • Can you retire early? Take this quiz and find out.
  • 9 simple ways to make up to an extra $200/day

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Cruise Packing Tips

  • Cruise Packing Lists
  • >> What to Pack for a Carnival Cruise (Packing List)

What to Pack for a Carnival Cruise (Packing List)

If you’re heading off on a Carnival Cruise what to pack might be one of the main things on your mind pre-cruise. To help, we’ve put together a complete guide on what to pack for a Carnival Cruise . If you’ve never cruised with Carnival before then our Carnival Cruise packing list will help you get packed and prepared for your upcoming cruise.

We’ve included some tips on what to wear on a Carnival Cruise for every occasion on board and other cruise essentials to add to your Carnival packing list to make your journey smooth and enjoyable.

Use our Carnival Cruise checklist printable to organize your packing before your trip and make sure you have everything you need.

  • 1 What to Wear on a Carnival Cruise
  • 2.1 Clothing for Women
  • 2.2 Clothing for Men
  • 2.3 Travel Documents
  • 2.4 Electronics
  • 2.5 Cruise Essentials
  • 2.6 Toiletries
  • 2.7 Useful Packing Items
  • 3 Carnival Cruise Packing List PDF Printable
  • 4 Carnival Cruise Luggage Tips

What to Wear on a Carnival Cruise

You’ll find that on Carnival Cruise what to wear is a bit more casual and fun than on other cruise lines. When you’re on Carnival what to pack for day and evening doesn’t need to be super fancy unless you want to get dressed up. There are a few Carnival Cruise dress code rules such as no shorts, flip-flops, cut-off/ripped jeans, caps or sleeveless shirts for men for the main dining room and no bathing suits or bare feet in the buffet.

Ideas for Carnival Cruise outfits:

  • Cruise casual day – Around the ship, you can wear bathings suits + coverups, shorts & tees, sundresses, basically any comfortable casual clothes.
  • Cruise casual evening – On non-formal nights in the main dining area you can wear sundresses, jeans & a nice tunic or vest top for women or short-sleeved shirt for men, or chinos and a polo shirt. You might want to plan on having one all white outfit as there’s often a white party one night.
  • Cruise elegant – If you’re wondering what to wear on formal night on Carnival Cruise you should picture yourself going out for a nice dinner at the minimum. You can wear anything from a nice sundress, up to a a full evening dress, but a cocktail dress is ideal. For men, chinos and a button down shirt at a minimum, up to a full tuxedo, but a sport coat and tie are ideal.

Carnival Cruise What to Pack

What to Pack for a Carnival Cruise

This list of what to bring on a Carnival Cruise will cover your for a 7 day cruise. If you’re on a slightly longer or shorter cruise, you can adjust the number of tops, dresses and underwear up or down to suit.

Clothing for Women

  • T-shirts x 2
  • Short sleeved shirts / vest tops x 4 or 5  – Can be casual by day or dressed up for non-formal night
  • Cotton / chiffon tunic
  • White jeans
  • Jeans (ideal for travel days)
  • Linen / palazzo pants
  • Sundresses x 3
  • Jumpsuit / romper
  • Formal night dresses x 1 or 2 – You can just dress up your sundress/maxi dress/jumpsuit with jewelry and nicer shoes if dressing up doesn’t suit your taste
  • Shorts / Capri pants x 2
  • Kimono top – Useful as a bathing suit cover up or over a vest or jumpsuit for dinner
  • Workout gear x 2 – For working out on board or for active excursions
  • Bathing suits x 2 or 3
  • Cover ups x 2 or 3
  • UV swim vest – Useful for sailing or beach excursions
  • Sunglasses x 2 – One cheap pair for beach days or in the pool is useful
  • Baseball cap
  • Aqua shoes – If planning on an excursion that requires them
  • Nice sandals – For day or evening
  • Heels or wedges – To go with your evening wear choices both formal and non-formal
  • Statement jewelry
  • Underwear x 10
  • Sleepwear x 2

Clothing for Men

  • T-shirts x 3 or 4
  • Short sleeved shirts x 3 or 4
  • Polo shirts x 3 or 4
  • Formal night suit or sport coat – You can just smarten up your chinos with a button down shirt and tie if dressing up doesn’t suit your taste
  • Light sweater
  • Swim shorts x 2 or 3
  • UV swim vest
  • Sunglasses x 2 – A cheap pair for beach days or in the pool is useful
  • Leather loafer or boat shoe
  • Dress shoes

Travel Documents

These should all be packed in your carry on bag for embarkation day. There is a safe in your stateroom for valuables.  See this post for more details on what to pack in your carry on bag for embarkation.

  • Cruise documents
  • Travel documents
  • Drivers License
  • Travel wallet / organiser

Electronics

  • Selfie stick
  • All chargers
  • Powerstrip without surge protector

Cruise Essentials

  • Waterproof phone case
  • Ginger candy
  • Downy Wrinkle Release (travel size)
  • Magnetic hooks
  • Bungee cord – For holding open your balcony door
  • Overdoor shoe organizer
  • Highlighter
  • Post It notes
  • Travel coffee cup or soda cup
  • Refillable water bottle
  • Earplugs or portable sound machine – If you’re a light sleeper or in case of noisy neighbors
  • Travel alarm clock
  • Towel clipsw
  • Wine bottle – One 750 ml bottle per adult
  • Wine bottle protector
  • Soda – 12 cans per person
  • Tide to Go – Stain remover pen for emergencies
  • Tide pods – Carnival has laundry rooms on board if you need them so pop a few pods in a Ziploc bag in case you need them
  • Travel laundry sheets – For handwashing in your room if necessary
  • Lysol disinfecting wipes or spray – For sanitizing your cabin on arrival
  • Hand sanitzer – Travel size

For more ideas on cruise essentials check out this post. 

  • Shampoo (available on the ship but not high quality)
  • Conditioner
  • Body wash (available on the ship but not high quality)
  • Sunscreen – Spray sunscreen and face sunscreen
  • Aftersun gel
  • Antacid tablets
  • Facial moisturiser
  • Body lotion
  • Shaving cream
  • Make up remover ( wipes or micellar water )
  • Hair ties & bobby pins
  • Hair products
  • Antichafe balm – Prevents “chub rub”
  • Small first aid kit
  • Medications
  • Contact lens & solution

Useful Packing Items

  • Packing cubes
  • Cruise luggage tags – Get the right kind for your cruise line, there are two different sizes
  • Hanging toiletry bag
  • Garment bag
  • Laundry bag or pop up hamper
  • Prescription medication organizer
  • Folding backpack
  • Cooler (12″ x 12″ x 12″)
  • Travel toiletry bottles
  • Wet-dry bag – For traveling home with wet swimsuits

Carnival Cruise Packing List

Carnival Cruise Packing List PDF Printable

We recommend using our Carnival Cruise packing checklist to help organize your cruise packing. Print out the Carnival checklist and mark it off as you gather items. We recommend starting the cruise packing process at least a month out from your cruise to allow you enough time to plan your outfits and order any of the recommended things to bring on a Carnival Cruise. If you have a spare bedroom or space in your house, lay everything out, add to it as you go and then pack it up a few nights before your trip to avoid wrinkling your clothes.

*** You can download our Carnival Cruise packing list pdf here. ***

Carnival Cruise Luggage Tips

Here are a few tips on the luggage you can bring on your Carnival Cruise:

  • On your Carnival Cruise luggage should be limited to one suitcase per person for 3-5 day cruises and two suitcases per person for 6+ day cruises. However, tt is recommended that you only bring one suitcase per person.
  • Each suitcase needs to be under 50 lbs.
  • Luggage should be 16″ deep by 24″ wide at a maximum but length is not restricted.
  • Checked luggage needs to be unlocked so store all valuables in your carry on.
  • Order some Carnival Cruise luggage tags. It’s more secure than just stapling them on so less chance your bag will go missing.
  • Make sure your suitcase is well labelled and distinctive from other cruisers. A good way to do this is with ribbons or straps. Don’t forget to add your name, address and phone number to your luggage.

Suggested suitcases for Carnival Cruises:

Got a question on what to pack for your Carnival Cruise? You can comment below on this post or pop over to our cruise packing group on Facebook to ask for advice!

Still need help? Take our FREE email course!

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

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Carnival Cruise Packing List – Printable Checklist Included!

Lucky you! You’re off for some fun in the sun on a Carnival Cruise! My Carnival cruise packing list will help you get organized so you can be fully prepared and totally relaxed once you’re on board. Read through my post on what to pack for a Carnival Cruise which includes clothes, toiletries, footwear and all the other bits and pieces you’ll need on your trip.

I’ll give you lots of examples of  what to wear on a Carnival Cruise including some pics of outfits I wore on my recent Western Caribbean cruise on Carnival Breeze. (Our Carnival Breeze review and trip report is here.) I’ll also show you want to wear on Carnival Cruise formal night too so if you want to dress up you can. When you’re headed out on a Carnival Cruise what to pack is a breeze once you have read my post!

At the end of this post you can print out your own Carnival Cruise checklist so you can prepare and pack for your own trip. If you’re new to cruising in general or just new to Carnival what to pack might be a bit overwhelming but if you follow my checklist you’ll soon have it under control.

This Carnival Cruise packing checklist is for a warm-weather cruise. If you’re headed to Alaska, then you need to head over and read my Alaska Cruise Packing List . You can also read my other cruise packing posts on what to pack for a cruise and 12 mix & match cruise outfits you’ll love to wear ! If you’re interested in more Carnival Cruise tips you can read my post here.

What You'll Find in This Post

What to Wear on a Carnival Cruise

If you’re wondering what to wear on Carnival Cruise Lines , then relax. It’s actually pretty easy going on Carnival. Carnival Cruise attire is fun and casual for the most part.

If you’re headed out soon on a Carnival Cruise what to wear is pretty easily decided once you know what kind of activities you need to dress for. You’ll need the following types of outfits:

  • An embarkation outfit or travel outfit if you’re flying into port from out of town (smart casual, still nice for photos!)
  • Casual clothes to wear on board the ship and on shore excursions (shorts and t-shirts or sundresses)
  • Work out clothes for active excursions or for working out on board
  • Cruise casual dinner attire for non-formal nights (jeans and a tee or polo shirt for men, a sundress or flowy top or tunic & jeans for ladies)
  • Some smarter outfits for formal night (more on that below!)
  • And some swimwear of course!

Above are some examples of Carnival Cruise wear. These  Carnival Cruise outfits are pretty casual and fun as you can see. I’ve linked all the specific items in the “what to pack Carnival Cruise” section below. You can click on any of those links and order the specific items in the image above.

What to Wear on Carnival Cruise Formal Night

Formal night on Carnival Cruise Lines is more relaxed than on other cruise lines. You won’t see many people in a sport coat, let alone a tux or evening gown. Think of it as smart but relaxed and fun rather than formal. Men generally wear a collared shirt and maybe a tie with some slacks or chinos. Women tend to wear fun cocktail dresses or sundresses that they dress up with accessories and heels.

Our cruise on the Carnival Breeze went from Galveston and we did notice that some families did get really dressed up. Women were in full evening gowns with perfect hair and make up and men were in dark suits & ties. If you want to go all out and get dressed up that is totally up to you! I would just make sure you liaise with your entire travel group so you’re all at the same level of attire.

I’ll add in some examples of what to wear on Carnival Cruise formal night below. You can click on any of these images for a closer look. There are also some ideas in this cruise outfits post.

cruise line check list

What to Pack for a Carnival Cruise

My Carnival packing list will show you exactly what to take on a Carnival Cruise. From clothes to footwear to electronics and all those other useful little things, once you’ve read through this list you’ll know what to bring on a Carnival Cruise.

Clothes for women:

  • T-shirts and tank tops x 5 – Pictured above in the image for casual clothes
  • Shorts or capri pants x 2 – If you don’t like wearing “short shorts” then Bermuda shorts or capri pants are a good option. These are the capri pants pictures above in the embarkation outfit. And these are the bermuda shorts pictured in the image for casual clothes.
  • Sundress x 2
  • T-shirt dress x 1
  • Maxi dress x 1-2 – This is the one pictured above under cruise casual dinner outfits.
  • Cocktail dress, jumpsuit or gown x 1-2 –  This is the dress pictured above under formal wear.
  • Jeans, palazzo pants or linen pants – One pair of long pants can be really useful. I like a pair of stretchy white jeans personally.
  • Tunic top or flowy evening top x 2 or 3 – Think of what you’d wear on a date night to a restaurant or out for a drink with friends and wear that to dinner over capri pants, jeans or linen pants. This is the one pictured above as an embarkation outfit.
  • Cardigan – A light cardigan is useful for the dining room in the evenings as the aircon can be quite cool
  • Kimono top – Works great over tank top and shorts in the day, to glam up a sundress for evening or as a pool cover up!
  • Work out clothes / active wear – If you plan on using the gym or doing any active excursions like zip lining you’ll need a tank top like this and workout shorts like this .
  • 10 pair of underwear
  • 3-4 bras – 1 white/ nude, one sports and one black evening works best for me.

Clothes for men:

  • Polo shirts
  • Short sleeved shirts
  • Dress shirts
  • Chinos or khakis
  • Sport coat or suit (optional) – I would only suggest you do this if your partner is getting dressed up for formal night, otherwise you’re fine without it on Carnival.
  • Light sweater
  • Work out clothes
  • 1o pair of underwear
  • Swim suits x 2 – Miraclesuit have shaping swimsuit which I love for tummy control. This is the one in the image above.
  • Swim cover up x 2 – Here are a couple of great swim suit cover ups or this one that is from the image pictured above.
  • UV rash vest
  • Wedges or heels – I prefer wedges for cruises because they’re more stable!
  • Boat shoes or loafer or dress shoes (men)
  • Aqua or water shoes – These are really useful for excursions where you’re active in the water or for beach days.

Accessories:

  • Sunglasses x 2 – One good pair and one cheap pair for wearing in the pool or ocean
  • Statement jewelry
  • Pashmina scarf
  • Light scarf

Electronics:

  • Waterproof phone case – This is the one I use and it’s very inexpensive. Works at the pool and beach and you can put your phone, cash and sail & sign card in it too.
  • GoPro or camera – A GoPro is a great camera for cruising. If you’re looking for a more traditional point and shoot camera that is also pool and beach-proof then this one by Panasonic is a good buy.
  • Laptop or iPad
  • Kindle – This one is waterproof so ideal for cruising!
  • Headphones – Folding ones like this are good for travel
  • All your chargers
  • Power strip – Your power strip must NOT have a surge protector on it. Here is a useful power strip for cruise travel that has no surge protection and also has USB charging ports so it’s easy to charge your devices.
  • Travel clock – Some people like to bring this as staterooms don’t have a clock, I just use my phone but if you’re having a phone-free vacation it is useful to have one of these in your stateroom.

Toiletries:

What to pack for Carnival cruise: Toiletries you’ll need.

Carnival cruise toiletries provided are shampoo, conditioner and body wash supplied in shower dispensers as well as a bar of hand soap. If you’re picky about the products you use it does plan to pack your own brands. Travel sized bottles will do for your 7 day Carnival cruise packing list, either buy mini versions of your favorites or decant them into GoToobs like these .

This post has a guide on what to pack on a Carnival cruise in your toiletries bag – Toiletries List for Travel.  I’ll leave it as a separate list to the main packing list because it’s quite lengthy but just make sure you bring at least a full sized bottle of sunscreen and after sun lotion like aloe vera gel. These are essential toiletries for cruising!

Sea Sickness Prevention:

Sea sickness prevention is essential when packing for a Carnival cruise. I bring the following on every cruise we take:

  • 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.

A little seasickness prevention pack makes a nice gift for someone you’re cruising with also! You can also read this post with more tips on how to avoid getting sea sick on a cruise .

  • Wine – You can bring one bottle of wine per adult (750mL) which must be packed in your carry on luggage. You need to drink this in your room or at least pour it into a glass if you want to carry it to dinner. If you bring your own wine bottle to dinner, open or not, you’ll be charged a $15 corkage fee to consume it at your table. You cabin attendant can provide wine glasses for your room. If you are bringing a bottle of wine with you, it’s a good idea to pack it in a wine bottle protector sleeve.
  • Soda or water – Each person can bring 12 cans or cartons (12 oz or less) of soda, milk, juice or sparkling water on board in your carry on luggage when you embark.
  • Refillable water bottle – Collapsible ones like this are great for travel!
  • Travel coffee cup (like this fun cruise-themed one!!)

Travel Documents & Money:

  • Cruise documents and luggage tags – You need to print these out yourself!
  • Cruise luggage tag holders
  • Cash – Bring some US dollars for using in the port and some smaller bills for tipping for cabin attendant or dining room server on the last day of your cruise
  • Credit card
  • Wallet or purse
  • Driver’s License / ID
  • Travel wallet for organiser your travel documents

Other Things to Bring on a Carnival Cruise:

  • Lanyard for your Sail & Sign card
  • Post-it notes & pens – For leaving messages on your stateroom door for family in other cabins or writing a note to your cabin attendant. These  Post-it Pop-up Notes are handy.
  • Highlighters – For marking the activities your want to take part in on your Fun Times each day
  • Walkie talkie set – Great if you’re cruising with older kids who don’t want to be stuck with mom and dad all day
  • Tide to Go stain remover pen
  • Tide pods in a Ziploc bag – Just a couple in case you want to do laundry on board (Carnival has several laundry rooms on board their ships with washers, dryers and irons.)
  • Travel laundry sheets – For handwashing any delicates that you might want to re-wear on the cruise (there is a clothes line in your bathroom onboard!)

Carnival Cruise Luggage and How to Pack for a Carnival Cruise

Carnival packing rules.

Carnival cruise packing rules for the amount of luggage you can bring are as follows:

  • One suitcase for cruises of 3-5 days
  • Two suitcases for cruises of 6+ days
  • Carnival cruise suitcase size limits are   16 inches high by 24 inches wide (the length of the bag is not a factor) and weight limits are 50lbs per bag
  • All suitcases must be unlocked
  • If you have checked baggage, you must be checked in at least two hours before the ship’s departure time
  • Carnival cruise carry on size luggage is the same dimensions as for checked luggage but you must be able to manoeuvre through the queues with your carry on baggage and look after your carry on bag yourself until your stateroom is available which can take several hours. It is therefore better to just bring a tote bag, backpack or small wheeled suitcase as your carry on (as you would for airline travel).
  • Your checked luggage must be placed outside your stateroom door the evening before disembarkation if you want it taken off the ship by porters. You can opt to self carry your luggage off on the morning of disembarkation but you have to be able to fully manage your luggage yourself. It is a great idea to do this however as it means you can depart a lot earlier and not have to wait on board until your boarding group is called.

cruise line check list

Carry On Bag on Embarkation Day

In your carry on bag for embarkation you will need to pack:

  • All your travel documents, wallet and phone
  • Valuables like your camera or iPad that you don’t want to leave in your checked luggage
  • Your swimsuit, pool cover up, hat, sunglasses and sunscreen so you can hit the pool on day one when you embark
  • A change of clothes with underwear (just in case your luggage goes missing!)
  • Any important medication
  • Book or Kindle
  • A water bottle and a snack for kids (sometimes checking in and boarding can take a loooong time!)

All this should fit easily into a backpack, tote bag or carry on suitcase. If you’re flying in to the port you’ll probably a suitcase for the things you need on the flight or the night before the cruise if you’re arriving early.

If you’re bringing trays of soda cans on board these must go in your carry on bag so I would suggest using a small wheeled suitcase for this so you’re not carrying them through the embarkation queue. It usually takes a minimum of one hour of queuing for security, document checks and boarding so make sure you can comfortably manage your Carnival cruise carry on.

cruise line check list

Shore Excursion Bag

For shore excursions, assuming you’re off to the beach or doing something active, you should bring the following:

  • Swimsuit, pool cover up, hat, sunglasses and sunscreen
  • Watershoes or sneakers depending on your excursion
  • Carnival beach towel – These are provided in your stateroom and can be taken off the ship (but be sure to return them or you will be charged for replacing them!)
  • Water bottle
  • Wallet with cash in USD and Sail & Sign card
  • Waterproof phone pouch – These are the BEST thing for cruising! You can use your phone while it’s in the waterproof pouch so you can take photos at the beach or in the ocean without worrying about damaging your phone. We actually just tuck cash and our Sail & Sign cards into one of these waterproof case along with our phones if we are headed to the beach so we can avoid learning or valuables on the beach while we are in the ocean.
  • Camera – If you want to leave your phone at home or onboard and take a camera out and about the Olympus TG-4 is a great camera for cruising because it’s full waterproof and shockproof. GoPro cameras are also great for active cruise vacations.

Use the same backpack or tote bag you used for embarkation as your shore excursion bag or bring a foldable beach tote like this along in your cruise luggage.

We recommend a suitcase of around 24″ to 25″ for a single person or a couple traveling together and a suitcase of around 28″ to 30″ for a family sharing a suitcase. This is ample luggage capacity for a 7 night cruise. We have done cruises with only two carry on bags for our family of four in the past. If you pack strategically and follow my cruise packing checklist for Carnival that you can print below you will have no problems with a bag of this size.

As I mentioned above, there is a maximum weight limit of 50 lbs which should be ample allowance for your suitcase. Your suitcase needs to be no more than 16 inches deep by 24 inches wide across the base. It’s also a good idea to have a suitcase with four spinner wheels as they’re easier to manage, especially if you want to take your bags off the ship yourself on disembarkation day to save time.

Here are some suggested suitcases that meet these requirements:

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25″ high x 17.5″ wide x 11.5″ deep

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29″ high x 19.5″ wide x 12.5″ deep

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24″ high x 17.5″ wide x 11.5″ deep

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28″ high x 19.75″ wide x 12.5″ deep

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Carry on: 20″ high x 13″ wide x 9″ deep / Checked suitcase: 28″ high x 17″ wide x 12″ deep

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Shoulder bag: 15″ long x 10″ high x 8″ deep / Carry on: – 21″ high x 14″ wide x 7″ deep / Checked suitcase: 24.5″ high x 16″ wide x 8″ deep

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Packing Cubes

Using packing cubes also make it easy to unpack when you arrive in your stateroom and organise your belongs. Just pop the cubes out of your suitcase and straight into a drawer or cupboard. Easy! You can read my complete guide on how to pack with packing cubes and which ones to buy for more information . I even have an instructional video on how to use them.

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Hanging Toiletry Bag

A hanging toiletry bag is one of the ideals things to pack for a cruise, Carnival has hooks on the back of all the bathroom doors so you can just hang your bag and see your stuff without unpacking too much. You can read my review of the eBags flat toiletry bag here. It’s flat and packs super easily into your suitcase!

Laundry Bag

Wet-dry bag, carnival cruise checklist (printable).

Download your own copy of my Carnival Cruise packing list PDF here.

You can also download my what to pack for a Carnival cruise checklist here as a spreadsheet if you prefer so you can plan and customize it on your computer. You just need to save a copy to your Google Drive or simply download it as an Excel spreadsheet.

You can also get my separate toiletries packing checklist here.

Carnival Cruise Prohibited Items

So what can you not bring on a Carnival Cruise? You would be surprised about what some people try and bring on board!

On a Carnival Cruise items not allowed include:

  • Irons, coffee pots, tea kettles or any other personal appliances – You can’t bring an iron on Carnival Cruise but you can use them in the guest laundry.
  • Power strips with surge protectors – Powerstrips like this without a surge protector are fine though.
  • Water or soda in bottles (cans or boxes are ok)
  • Alcohol (other than one 750ml bottle of wine per adult)
  • Candles – If you’re celebrating a birthday on board bring your own decorations but leave the candle at home! Waitstaff will do a cake and birthday candle in the main dining room for you though.
  • Shoes with wheels, hoverboards or rollerskates
  • Coolers larger than 12″ x 12″ x 12″

Bethaney on Board the Carnival Breeze

Bethaney on Board the Carnival Breeze

Questions or Comments on My Carnival Cruise Packing List?

Got any questions on packing for Carnival Cruise Lines? Need some help with your Carnival pre cruise checklist? If you have a comment or question on what to bring on Carnival cruise ships then just let me know in the comment section below. I’m happy to answer your specific questions on what can you take on a Carnival cruise,

Join Our Facebook Group to Chat More About Cruise Packing Tips

I hope you’ve found my Carnival cruise packing tips useful and you now know what to pack on Carnival cruise ships.

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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Best Toddler Travel Bed (2019) – Top Picks from Family Travel Expert!

Thanks so much for this comprehensive article on cruise essentials. As a first time cruiser, I’m a little intimidated on what to bring. This will be my go-to list when the time comes to start packing. Great tips. Thanks again. I will be sharing this with my travel mates.

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You’re a life saver. Thank you so much!

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I was told that I can only bring 4oz bottles of shampoo or body wash on ship not any full size bottles

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No, you can bring full size bottles. 🙂

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your not allowed to bring on a airplane anything over 3 oz . even if you have say 3oz in a bottle that says 6oz your not allowed to bring that bottle that states 6 oz. The ship is different you can bring large bottles oh shampoo and such!

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the lanyard for sail card. – do the cards have a place to clip on to them or do we need to have a plastic holder to slide card into thanks 🙂

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I will absolutely be using this guide to help me pack up! Thank you so much!

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She's been on over 40 cruises and says AirTags are now a must-have for her travels

  • Allie Hubers, an experienced cruiser, said she always packs an AirTag in her travel bag.
  • In a Cruise Blog article, Hubers wrote that AirTags help her locate her bags quickly.
  • Hubers said paying $24 for an AirTag is worth the peace of mind while cruising.

Insider Today

Allie Hubers, an experienced traveler who's boarded over 40 cruises, says an Apple AirTag is now an essential item on her packing list.

In an article for the industry site Cruise Blog , Hubers shared her four must-pack items for a cruise. Hubers told Business Insider in an email that she's been cruising since she was three years old and has traveled to 59 countries, mostly by cruise. Hubers is a freelance writer and full-time operations analyst, per her LinkedIn profile.

Hubers wrote in the article that she first brought an AirTag — a 1.2-inch device enabling iPhone users to track its real-time location — before a 12-night European cruise in 2022.

What she loved about the AirTag , Hubers said, was that she could track her bags at the cruise terminal and ensure they were on board the ship. She found this helpful, as passengers typically have to leave their luggage with porters at the cruise terminal.

"With my Apple AirTag, I can be confident that I won't lose the location of my luggage," Hubers wrote on the blog.

Another upside to using an AirTag while cruising is easily locating your bag by playing a "ding" sound on the device, Hubers said. When disembarking from a cruise, passengers have to look for their own bags at the cruise terminal, she added.

"The price is minimal compared to the peace of mind it provides knowing the exact location of my belongings at all times," Hubers wrote, referring to how much an AirTag costs — $29 a piece, or $99 for a pack of four.

Hubers told BI that when she traveled on a 12-night African cruise last month, her bags didn't show up until hours after she boarded. That's when the AirTags became handy, Hubers said.

"I started to worry that my bag did not get loaded onto the ship," Hubers said.

"I was able to use the 'Find My' app to play a sound on the AirTag and locate my luggage down the hallway — my suitcase had been delivered to the wrong cabin!" she added.

Other tracking devices are available for non-iPhone users as well. Tile , a tracker compatible with both iOS and Android phones, costs $25. The similarly priced Chipolo tracker is another option for those using Androids.

AirTags have gained popularity among travelers in recent years amid fears of companies mishandling bags. In October, a Business Insider reporter wrote that packing a pair of AirTags in her suitcase gave her confidence while traveling to Europe for the first time. And in November, a passenger used an AirTag to track her bag's location in Jamaica after WestJet mishandled it on a domestic flight in Canada.

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Watch: Forget ocean cruises, this 27-day luxury air cruise costs $159,000 per person

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A Deep Dive Into the 9-Month Ultimate World Cruise

Royal caribbean's nine-month-long ultimate world cruise was making waves on tiktok even before the fantasy sprung a few leaks. everything rocking the boat aboard the serenade of the seas :.

If you don't fear cabin fever, perhaps nine months at sea is for you.

But if even the very idea of a 274-night cruise has you reaching for Dramamine, you can always just stay on land and scroll TikTok .

Because much like Taylor Swift 's Eras Tour, you can see a  lot of what's happening aboard Royal Caribbean's Ultimate World Cruise  without shelling out five figures for a plum seat, in this case thanks to some of the younger-than-average cruisers making good use of the free Wi-Fi.

Well, free with the entry-level $53,999 price for passage aboard the  Symphony of the Seas , which will reportedly  carry 27,000 guests in total over the four legs of the trip, while more than 600 were booked for the entire itinerary.

And, naturally, many people are just making TikToks  about  the cruise , hoping for some  Below Deck -meets- Love Boat -style intrigue, with maybe a little  Triangle of Sadness  thrown in for schadenfreude.

"Imagine eating unlimited cruise food for nine months, like what that's going to do to your body," TikToker Grassmoons pondered on Dec. 14. "I just worry people aren't going to pace themselves and it's going to be really hard on their bodies."

Nevertheless, her post was captioned, "You best believe if I had $60k id be on that ship."

Meanwhile, content creator Marc Sebastian  predicted "mutiny" in a Dec. 20 TikTok : "There's going to be blood. Someone is going overboard. I want to watch. Bravo, where are you? I need eyes. We're witnessing Fyre Festival, Alabama Rush and no one is rushing there."

Within two weeks after the ship's departure from Miami on Dec. 10, TikToks tagged #UltimateWorld Cruise had been watched more than 54.8 million times, according to NBC News . That number had grown to more than 150 million by the time the clock struck 2024.

And Sebastian, 33, ended up going aboard for an 18-day stretch in January courtesy of Simon & Schuster's Atria Books, which enlisted him to host a virtual book club. His trip included a choppy ride through the Drake Passage (" Drake 's best work since hotline bling," he captioned a post ), the body of water between South America's Cape Horn and Antarctica's South Shetland Islands. 

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He also made oodles of TikToks , poking his phone into every nook and cranny of the ship and documenting his experience on, as he cheekily put it, "this floating retirement home with a Cheesecake Factory attached."

The admitted cruise skeptic told NPR before he disembarked, "I really did think at the very beginning that I was going to find a lot of interpersonal drama within the people. But unfortunately, they're all so nice —crazy!—and they are all really kind. There's a really amazing sense of community."

And while the cruise has been going viral since it was first announced in 2021, it made more unfortunate headlines following the death of a passenger this month . 

The person's identity was not released, Royal Caribbean telling E! News in a Feb. 14 statement, "We are actively providing support and assistance to the guest's loved ones at this time" and would not be sharing further details "out of the privacy of the guest and their family."

According to People , another passenger said in a since-deleted Feb. 11 TikTok that the deceased was an "elderly lady" who'd passed away the previous night.

But since the Ultimate World Cruise has another seven months to go, we may as well dock and unpack what's been happening onboard right here:

Where Does the Ultimate World Cruise Go?

The 274-night Ultimate World Cruise is scheduled to visit more than 150 ports of call in 65 countries on all seven continents, according to Royal Caribbean .

The first leg, the Ultimate Americas, ran from Dec. 10 until Feb. 11 and took passengers around North America, South America, the Caribbean and Antarctica. World wonders on the to-see list included the Christ the Redeemer statue in Rio de Janeiro and Machu Pichu.

Leg two, Ultimate Asia Pacific, sails around Australia, New Zealand, Japan, China and India—encompassing sites like the Great Barrier Reef, the Great Wall and the Taj Mahal—through May 9.

The third quarter, Ultimate Middle East and Med, goes till July 10 (and there will be pyramids), while the final leg—Ultimate Europe and Beyond—concludes Sept. 10, also known as the day people disembark, kiss the ground and cry, "Land!!!"

Aside from the whole nine months, or the duration of an entire leg, travelers had the option to book a nine-to-28-night voyage.

How Much Does the Ultimate World Cruise Cost?

What price paradise?

Individual passage for the entire thing starts at $53,999 (minus taxes and fees but including roundtrip business-class airfare and gratuities) for an Interior Stateroom and can run up to $105,839 for a Junior Suite. There's also a price-upon-request tier for "other suite categories."

A "deluxe beverage package," wash-and-fold laundry service and Wi-Fi are among the included amenities.

Meet the Boat

Royal Caribbean enlisted the Radiance-class  Serenade of the Seas , which holds 2,490 guests and 891 crew, for the Ultimate World Cruise experience. Built in Germany, she made her maiden voyage in 2003.

The ship boasts 12 passenger decks and nine passenger elevators (six of them glass), multiple pools (including a rain-or-shine option under a retractable glass roof), a fitness center, a spa, mini-golf, rock climbing, restaurants, bars and lounges, shops, an arcade, movies, live entertainment and a nightclub, plus all sorts of classes and activities.

And, according to content creator Marc Sebastien , who spent 18 nights aboard during the first leg of the journey, the ship's godmother—"Did you guys know that ships have godmothers?"—is Whoopi Goldberg .

He showed a photo of the entertainer with a plaque apparently designating her as such in a Jan. 22 TikTok . But he had thoughts, adding, "As an EGOT winner...I just don't feel like this is the right ship for you."

Who Is On the Ultimate World Cruise?

"We are thrilled to be hosting a range of guests from young solo travelers, to couples and families," Dave Humpreys , director of sales at Royal Caribbean International AUNZ, told news.com.au . "We have an impressive number of Gen-Z and millennial cruisers, with a significant number of guests between the ages of 18 to 30 joining us on various legs of this cruise."

But it  is still a cruise.

"I would say the majority, like the overwhelming majority of passengers, are retirees [or seniors]," 29-year-old  Alé Kenney , who will be celebrating her fourth wedding anniversary with husband Andrew Kenney during the voyage, told TODAY.com  in December.

The young couple, who are among the many TikTok enthusiasts aboard, explained that they decided to go for it after Alé's father died of cancer at 57.

"We were like, 'Well, we can do it. We don't have a mortgage right now. We don't have kids yet,'" Andrew said. "We're just in a season of life where we could actually take nine months off and see the world."

Brandee Lake , 46, and sister Shannon , 42, are sharing a state room while on the trip with their retired parents. "We definitely are the youngest Black people on the boat," Brandee told TODAY.com . Shannon added, "I think that's why my TikTok skyrocketed so fast, because I was the first Black person that people were seeing post that was actually on the ship."

Angie Linderman , another young cruiser, said she had tested positive for the BRCA2 gene , which is linked to an increased risk of certain cancers, so there was no time like the present.

"Retirement age is not a guarantee," she explained. "And so [I'm putting] an emphasis on just doing all of the things I can do now while I'm healthy, while I'm able, instead of putting them off in hopes that I can do them later, when in reality that may not happen."

What Happens if There's a Medical Emergency?

News of a passenger death aboard the Ultimate World Cruise in February understandably caused concern among landlubbers seeing the headlines, visions of Agatha Christie mysteries dancing through their heads.

While the cruise line didn't release any details, citing the family's privacy, a content creator on the trip posted (then deleted) a TikTok in which she said the deceased was an "elderly lady."

A 2018 study from the Cruise Lines International Association stated that 50 percent of cruise ship passengers on average were over the age of 50 and almost a third of that group were older than 70. According to the Maritime Injury Guide , which noted that cruise ships tend to carry between 3,000 and 5,000 passengers, it's estimated that around 200 people die on a cruise every year. 

Royal Caribbean explained in its FAQ section that medical staff is booked according to how many people are onboard, and on the Ultimate World Cruise they expected to have two or three doctors, three to five nurses and a medical secretary. (No dentists, but cruise staff will help guests find one in port.) 

Listed onboard equipment and facilities includes cardiac monitors, automated external defibrillators, ventilators, x-ray machines and processors, laboratory equipment, a selection of acute care medications, a regular pharmacy and a variety of minor surgical and orthopedic supplies.

What's the onboard drama factor so far?

Speaking from the ship, passenger Brandee told  TODAY  in an interview that aired Dec. 27 that after initially being mistaken for a member of the staff—"Apparently it seemed far fetched to some that a Black woman (and family) could be a guest on the once in a lifetime experience," she captioned a TikTok about the encounter—the cruise's hotel director made sure to greet her personally at dinner to find out if all was well.

Otherwise, Brandee added, "everything has been great" and the passengers were turning into "one growing family."

She has continued to post near-daily TikToks, breaking down the at-times complicated logistics and rules regarding cruise lingo such as "independent journeys." She recently reassured concerned commenters who were aghast that she had to run it by the cruise line when she wanted to do her own thing while in Los Angeles that it was a customs issue—though she admittedly LOL'd when asked to "blink twice" if she needed help.

But as of February, nothing too wild had been reported during what looked like the colder portion of the trip. 

And yet those creative TikTokers still managed to crank out content, showing off how they'd decorated their state rooms , reviewing the food,  making a farce out of trying to get a towel to stay on a lounge chair when its windy and  showing off icebergs (from a safe distance) en route to Antarctica.

Still, maybe whimsysoul's Ultimate World Cruise Bingo game—"lost passport chaos," "COVID outbreak," "staff dates passenger," etc.—will pick up once the weather gets warmer.

Bumps in the Road, er, Water

It hasn't been smooth sailing  all the way. The very first scheduled port—Devil's Island (off the coast of French Guiana in South America)—was scrapped due to bad weather, as seen in TikToks compiled by TODAY .

Then, there was a flood up on deck 12 caused by a storm (though, good news for everyone, it appeared to be rain water and not anything... murkier ). 

And after all that sailing  toward Antarctica, the passengers weren't able to actually set foot on the icy continent. But it looked really beautiful.

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VIDEO: Disney Ship Crashes With Thousands Onboard

in Disney Cruise Line

disney-cruise-liners

A viral video captured the moment a Disney Cruise Line ship crashed with thousands of passengers and crewmembers onboard. Watch it here!

Embarking on a Disney Cruise Line voyage is the ultimate way for any Disneyland Resort or Walt Disney World Resort fan to take a Disney vacation to the next level. The magical blend of Disney storytelling and the luxury of a cruise vacation promises an experience packed with unforgettable moments for the whole family.

A family enjoying the Disney Cruise Line stop-off at Castaway Cay

With themed dining locations inspired by Disney and Pixar movies, Marvel, and Star Wars; Broadway-style live musicals such as Beauty and the Beast, Aladdin, Tangled, Frozen, The Little Mermaid , Disney’s Believe, and the upcoming Moana;  unique themed events like Marvel Day at Sea, Pixar Day at Sea, or the festive Halloween on the High Seas and Very Merrytime; it’s easy to see why thousands of Disney fans set sail with Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, and their friends aboard the Disney  Wish ,  the Disney  Dream , the Disney  Fantasy , the Disney  Magic, and the Disney  Wonder.

Unfortunately, a viral video revealed the moment the Disney Dream  collided into a dock. This accident could’ve ruined the trip for thousands of voyagers and caused major problems for the Disney Cruise Line if the ship had received significant damage.

disney-wish-hyperspace

Related: Disney Updates Membership Terms and Conditions, Mandatory Trips Required

A viral video captured the moment the Disney Dream —  part of Disney Cruise Line’s fleet — crashed into a dock at Nassau, Bahamas, one of the most important destinations on most Disney Cruise Line Bahamas cruises.

The video, posted by @holis.cruises on TikTok, shows the massive ship backing into a dock before the impact and stopping suddenly — surely as soon as a crew member noticed the incident.

You can see the video below or click here to watch it.

#viral #fyp #ocean #cruisetravel #cruise #dockdiving #whoops #crash #fail #disney #disneycruise #disneydream #wow #crazy #captain #injured #docking
@holis.cruises #viral #fyp #ocean #cruisetravel #cruise #dockdiving #whoops #crash #fail #disney #disneycruise #disneydream #wow #crazy #captain #injured #docking ♬ Cornfield Chase – Hans Zimmer

Fortunately, the crash only caused minor damage to the ship’s paint, with the structure apparently remaining intact after the impact. One viewer commented, “I was on that cruise!” and added that she had not felt the crash.

While the Disney Cruise Line was recently put in the spotlight after a child predator scandal came to light , setting sail aboard one of the soon-to-be six ships of The Walt Disney Company’s fleet is a dream to many Disney fans.

An impressive Disney Cruise Line ship

More on Disney Cruise Line

The  Disney Cruise Line has sailed worldwide, taking thousands of voyagers on the most magical trips since its first sailing in July 1998. With new destinations , beloved characters, magical amenities, and  a spectacular celebration at sea for the Disney Cruise Line’s 25th anniversary , setting sail aboard  the Disney  Wish ,  the Disney  Dream , the Disney  Fantasy , the Disney  Magic,  the Disney  Wonder,  and soon, the Disney  Treasure  —  the sixth ship in the Disney Cruise Line fleet which is currently under construction  — is at the top of our bucket list.

Have you ever been on a Disney Cruise? Tell Inside the Magic about your experience in the comments below!

IMAGES

  1. How To Pack For A Cruise (with free printable checklist)

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  2. Cruise Packing List (2023): Carry On and Checked Bag Must Haves

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  3. Cruise Vacation Checklist

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  4. A FREE Travel Checklist Printable for Your Next Cruise

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  5. What To Pack For A Cruise Checklist

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  6. The Ultimate Cruise Packing Checklist

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VIDEO

  1. My TOP 5 NEW cruise ships to sail in 2024!😍👀✅

  2. What is the BEST cruise line? 🤔

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  5. ARE CRUISE LINES CHANGING PORTS JUST TO SAVE MONEY

  6. What HAPPENS when you get KICKED OFF a cruise ship? 🤷‍♂️😳❌

COMMENTS

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

    - September 20, 2023 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.

  2. Cruise Packing List: 56 Essentials Chosen by Experts

    Jan. 10, 2024, at 10:15 a.m. U.S. News Ensure you have these cruise essentials for your vacation at sea. Packing for any trip takes some planning, but cruise vacations present a unique...

  3. The Ultimate Printable Cruise Packing List

    Our cruise packing checklist can help. It's printable, so you can easily mark off what you've already put in your suitcase or take it with you to the store while you're shopping for toiletries....

  4. Cruise Packing List

    Jeremy Camosse Jun 7 2021 Travel Our 2023 Cruise Packing List is the only checklist you'll need in preparation for your cruise vacation. From the "essentials" to the "extras," we've got you covered. We're constantly asked "what to pack for a cruise." To make it as simple as possible, we've created this printable PDF Cruise Packing List.

  5. Easy, Printable Cruise Vacation Packing Checklist [2023]

    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?

  6. Ultimate Cruise Packing Tips for First-Timers

    Essential Documents When packing for a cruise, start with a few essential documents. Make sure to bring: Your paper or digital airline tickets, if you are flying to your cruise departure port Your cruise documents

  7. Cruise packing list: 103 must-have items

    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.

  8. 100 item Ultimate Cruise Packing List (Printable PDF)

    100 item Ultimate Cruise Packing List (Printable PDF) In: Planning 02 Apr 2023 By: Chantal McPhee Packing for a cruise is no simple task, regardless if you are a first-timer or veteran.

  9. The Ultimate Cruise Packing Checklist (Easy to Print)

    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.

  10. Printable Cruise Packing List (FREE Printable)

    Clothing -. Formal Night clothes + shoes - You will see attire all across the fancy spectrum, from tuxedos and ballgowns to nice slacks and cute sundresses. daily clothes - shorts, shirts, tank tops, 1 pair of pants/ jeans. sandals/ flip flops. closed-toe shoes (some shore excursions require it) socks.

  11. The Ultimate Cruise Checklist (Free Printable)

    1. Check your passports are valid Before booking a cruise, make sure that all passports for you and any travelling companions are valid and up-to-date. Some countries and cruise lines require passports to be valid for a certain length of time beyond the end of your trip, so be sure to check those requirements as well.

  12. The Only Cruise Packing List You'll Ever Need

    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.

  13. Printable Cruise Packing List (75 Best Things to Pack)

    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.

  14. Ultimate Cruise Packing List

    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.

  15. What to Pack for a Cruise

    Here is our suggested list of things to pack in your luggage: Winter wear: gloves, hat, coat, boots, sweatshirt, etc. Waterproof and windproof coat. Sunglasses. Pants or jeans. Sturdy footwear (boots or rubber-sole shoes) Umbrella or poncho. Binoculars.

  16. What To Pack / What's Included

    Dining & Entertainment. You'll find complimentary dining throughout the ship, including two main dining rooms, a buffet, coffee bar and more. Select ships feature a third main dining room, 24-hour dining venue, outdoor buffet, and a pool bar and grill. Complimentary entertainment, from live bands to comedy acts, is available in all ships.

  17. Cruise Packing List

    Print out this checklist and tick the items as you pack! Download Cruise Packing List PDF. AN IMPORTANT NOTE: Each ship provides guidelines around what items are not allowed onboard the ships, which will include items like irons, candles, explosives, flammable liquids, weapons, power boards and extension cords. Be sure to check these guidelines.

  18. Alphabetical List of Cruise Lines

    Seabourn SeaDream Yacht Club Silversea Star Clippers Star Cruises Steps of Paul Cruises Swan Hellenic Cruises Thomson Cruises Uniworld River Cruise Collection Viking River Cruises Voyages of Discovery (fka Discovery World Cruises) Windstar Cruises

  19. Packing Tips & Checklist for your next Vacation

    Cameras/camcorders/memory cards. Batteries. Cellphone/electronics chargers (make sure you check your cell-phone's roaming charges when leaving the U.S.) Plastic storage bags. Alarm clock. Electric converters/adapters or multiple plug outlet. First aid kit. Hand sanitizer.

  20. 16 Things You Must Do Every Time You Board a Cruise Ship

    Start your ocean journey on the right foot by following our checklist of 16 things to do as soon as you board your cruise ship. Compare the best travel credit cards for nearly free travel.

  21. PDF Ultimate Printable Packing List for a Cruise

    Ultimate Printable Packing List for a Cruise Carry-On Bag or Backpack Important paperwork - tickets and travel insurance info List of emergency phone numbers back home Travel ID documents - passport, visas Wallet with cash, credit cards (only one or two cards), driver's license Cruise line luggage tags to attach at destination (if you are flying)

  22. What to Pack for a Carnival Cruise (Packing List)

    There are a few Carnival Cruise dress code rules such as no shorts, flip-flops, cut-off/ripped jeans, caps or sleeveless shirts for men for the main dining room and no bathing suits or bare feet in the buffet. Ideas for Carnival Cruise outfits:

  23. What to Pack for a Cruise: Norwegian Cruise Line Edition

    If you're headed on a Norwegian cruise, what to pack is likely a consideration. The line's "Freestyle" vibe doesn't require formalwear or impose a bunch of different dress codes, but -- along with ...

  24. 2024 Member Choice Awards: Best Cruise Lines and Ships

    2024 Best River Cruise Line - Photo by Viking River Cruises Best River Cruise Line. Viking River Cruises - 4.160; American Cruise Line - 3.663; AmaWaterways - 3.140; Avalon Waterways - 2.398; Uniworld River Cruises - 2.364; Cruising the European waterways is quickly becoming a cruiser favorite to visit the interior cities inaccessible from ocean liners.

  25. Carnival Cruise Packing List

    Sundress x 2. T-shirt dress x 1. Maxi dress x 1-2 - This is the one pictured above under cruise casual dinner outfits. Cocktail dress, jumpsuit or gown x 1-2 - This is the dress pictured above under formal wear. Jeans, palazzo pants or linen pants - One pair of long pants can be really useful.

  26. Best World Cruises of 2024 and 2025

    World cruises come in all shapes and sizes. Prospective travelers will find sailings as long as 180 nights on Oceania's "180 Days Around the World" voyages, while some lines -- like Cunard ...

  27. A Frequent Cruiser Says She Always Packs an AirTag

    Allie Hubers, an experienced traveler who's boarded over 40 cruises, says an Apple AirTag is now an essential item on her packing list. In an article for the industry site Cruise Blog, Hubers ...

  28. List of Disney Cruise Line ships

    Fleet Current Disney Wonder in Port Canaveral Disney Dream at Castaway Cay. All of Disney Cruise Line's ships are officially registered in Nassau, Bahamas. Disney Magic began operation July 30, 1998. Disney Wonder began operation on August 1999 and were both built at Fincantieri shipyard, Italy. These approximately 84000-ton (the measurement of the two differ slightly) ships are 964 ft (294 m ...

  29. A Deep Dive Into the 9-Month Ultimate World Cruise

    The 274-night Ultimate World Cruise is scheduled to visit more than 150 ports of call in 65 countries on all seven continents, according to Royal Caribbean.. The first leg, the Ultimate Americas ...

  30. VIDEO: Disney Ship Crashes With Thousands Onboard

    Credit: Disney More on Disney Cruise Line. The Disney Cruise Line has sailed worldwide, taking thousands of voyagers on the most magical trips since its first sailing in July 1998. With new ...