Knowing what to pack for a cruise helps you stay organized and get the most out of your trip. We’ve put together a cruise packing list to help you prepare for your next adventure.
Understanding Your Cruise Itinerary
First, review your trip’s itinerary and the shore excursions you booked. Will you be exploring Caribbean islands or enchanted cities in Iceland? Hiking or exploring local shops, museums, and restaurants? On board, will you be working out, enjoying the spa, or relaxing by the pool? Start your cruise packing list by considering the activities you’d like to take part in.
The climate and time of year will guide your packing choices. Some countries have rainy seasons or climates that vary dramatically from summer to winter and from the inland to the shore.
Cruise Packing Essentials
The Right Attire
Pack cruise clothing you can mix and match to create several different outfits, while keeping the weather and onshore activities in mind.
Cruises often host themed events and formal nights. Plan accordingly if you wish to take part. In addition to your mix-and-match wardrobe, pack one or two formal outfits for the trip. Short 5-day cruises probably won’t allow you enough time to have laundry done, so you will need to pack sufficient bathing suits and clothing to wear something fresh every day.
You’ll require more clothes for a 7-day cruise. If the ship offers laundry services, you can still pack light. Week-long cruises often have increased baggage allowances to let you bring everything you need
Learn how to pack your cruise costumes, formal attire, and other delicate items to keep them looking great.
Packing Cubes
Staying organized is key to any hassle-free trip. Packing cubes help separate items by day or activity. Hanging toiletry bags give you easy access to makeup, medication, and toiletry items without taking up limited counter space in your cabin bathroom.
Pro Tip: Pack a foldable backpack, tote, or other travel bag to use on excursions or when you need extra space for souvenirs and other purchase items.
Grooming Items
Many cruise lines provide in-cabin toiletries, like shampoo, conditioner, and hand lotion. Find out what your cruise provides ahead of time so you can skip bringing them. Bring your own sunscreen and bug repellant, if the itinerary requires them.
Warning: Before packing your curling iron or flat iron, check with the cruise line. Many companies do not allow any heat stylers onboard for safety reasons.
Electronics and Chargers
In addition to tablets, phones, cameras, and their charging cords, pack a portable back-up battery to keep your phone and other devices charged during long days on the shore.
Don't assume the ship will have the same outlets you have at home. Outlet adapters are cruise essentials. A dry pouch or dry bag also comes in handy to keep electronics safe for water-related excursions like snorkeling.
Travel Documents
Keep your passport, visa, and travel insurance documents, vaccination card (if necessary), and emergency contact information in a travel document holder for easy access.
Your cruise key card is used for everything from opening your cabin door to charging items at the poolside bar.
A Lanyard
Your cruise key card is used for everything from opening your cabin door to charging items at the poolside bar. A lanyard is the best way to keep your key card handy at all times.
Motion Sickness Medicine
It’s always smart to pack motion sickness medicine or anti-nausea bracelets, just in case. Sometimes it takes a day or two to acclimate to the ship's motion.
Portable Fan
While your cabin will likely be air conditioned, a portable fan will keep your space feeling fresher and can be used as a white noise machine to help you sleep.
Magnetic Hooks
Cabin walls are usually made of metal. Buy a pack of magnetic hooks and use them to hang your jewelry, sun hats, beach bags, lanyards and more.
Carry-On vs Checked Luggage: What to Pack in Each
Whether you need to pack checked luggage depends on the length of your cruise. Most cruise ship cabins have storage space for full-sized suitcases under the bunks.
It takes time to deliver your luggage to your cabin, so pack a carry-on or backpack with the cruise essentials you’ll need for your first few hours aboard. Here are cruise packing lists for carry-on and checked luggage:
Carry-On Luggage
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Travel documents, cash, and credit cards
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Medication
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Jewelry, electronics, and other valuables
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A change of clothes, including underwear, socks, shoes, and swimwear
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Toiletries
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books, tables, and other entertainment
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Sunglasses and sunscreen
Checked Luggage
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Your main wardrobe, including formalwear and activity clothing
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toiletries you won't need for the first day
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Shoes
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Large beach towels
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Hair dryer and curling iron, if allowed by the cruise company
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A small tote or backpack
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Bug spray, reusable water bottles, and other onshore activity items
Recommended Luggage for Cruises
For long trips, consider a luggage set such as the VersaPack®+ Carry-On / Large Check-In Set. ThePlatinum® Elite Carry-On Spinner Tote is an excellent choice for short cruises, while the Platinum® Elite Medium Check-In Hardside Spinner offers the room you need to fully enjoy a longer, 7-day cruise.
Cruises are one of the most luxurious ways to travel. By creating a cruise packing list, you help ensure you get the most out of your journey on the high seas.
