What to Pack for Your Cruise: The Ultimate List (From Real Cruisers!)
Planning your first cruise and wondering what to pack? You're not alone. Packing for a cruise can feel overwhelming, especially if you're trying to prepare for new destinations, theme nights, unpredictable weather, and tiny cabin storage.
As a travel advisor who's helped clients cruise confidently—and someone who's cruised myself—I've learned what really matters when it comes to cruise packing. I've also pulled tips from fellow agents and seasoned travelers who've made all the rookie mistakes, so you don't have to.
Whether you're sailing the Caribbean, exploring Alaska, or heading off on a Mediterranean cruise, this comprehensive cruise packing list will help you bring exactly what you need (and skip what you don't)
Travel Essentials (Don't Skip These)
Before anything else, make sure these are packed and easy to grab in your carry-on or travel folder—not checked luggage.
Passport (must be valid for 6+ months past your cruise dates)
Required ID for domestic cruises
Printed or digital cruise boarding documents
Credit/debit cards (and notify your bank of travel)
Travel insurance documents and health insurance card
Emergency contact list
Copy of your travel itinerary & flight details
Any visas or vaccination records required
Luggage tags - I have recently started using these Smart Luggage Tags which provide a little privacy at the airport (and work really well!)
Contact info inside your luggage (just in case it gets lost)
Stateroom Comfort & Organization
Cabins are compact—smart organization makes a huge difference.
Magnetic hooks (most cabin walls are metal!) - Make sure to get hooks with strong magnets or they will slide down the wall
Over-the-door or hanging organizer for shoes, toiletries or accessories
Refillable water bottle (cabin air can get dry!)
Travel-sized wrinkle-release spray
Night light (it gets dark at sea!)
Poo-Pourri (especially if sharing a cabin)
Toiletries & Health Kit
Cruise ship medical centers exist, but they're pricey. Bring your own small stash of basics:
Toothbrush, toothpaste, floss
Shampoo, conditioner, and body wash (especially if you're picky, though most cruise lines provide these)
Moisturizer, face wash, SPF lip balm
After-sun lotion or aloe
Nail clippers, Q-tips, cotton pads
Razor & shaving cream
Deodorant
Medications (prescription & over-the-counter):
Pain relief (Tylenol, Advil, etc.)
Motion sickness (Bonine, Dramamine, Patches or my personal favorite that I have and wear on every cruise - a Relief Band)
Allergy meds, antacids, Imodium, etc.
Electrolyte powder such as Liquid I.V.
Eye drops or saline spray (for dry air)
Blister care and band-aids
Emergency dental repair kit (yes, really—there's no dentist onboard)
Clothes You'll Actually Wear
Don't overpack, but consider how your days will unfold—often with active excursions during the day and dinner or entertainment at night.
T-shirts or casual tops
Shorts or lightweight pants
Comfy daywear and loungewear
At least one or two dressier outfits (for dinner or themed nights)
Light sweater or jacket (cabins and theaters can be chilly)
Pajamas
Swimsuits (2–3 sets)
Cover-up for the poolside or beach
Undergarments & socks
Workout clothes (if you'll use the gym or do active excursions)
Rain jacket or poncho
Sun hat
Flip-flops, walking shoes, and/or water shoes
Optional:
Theme night outfits (some cruise lines have formal nights, white, red, or pajama parties, etc.—check ahead!)
Excursion Day Must-Haves
Think beach days, port exploring, hikes, or boat tours.
Reusable water bottle
Quick-dry towel (if not provided)
Sunglasses (polarized are best)
Sun hat
Bug spray or wipes
Snacks or protein bars
Ziploc or wet bags for wet/damp clothes
Snorkel gear (optional, depending on the cruise/port)
Tech & Entertainment
You don't need much, but don't get caught without power or entertainment.
Phone & charger
Extra charging cables (because one will stop working, guaranteed)
E-reader or tablet (preloaded with books, shows, movies) or a book
Headphones or earbuds
Travel adapter (if needed for international travel)
Camera or GoPro if you want better vacation photos
Downloaded music, podcasts, audiobooks, etc.
Smartwatch/ring or fitness tracker
Cruise-Specific Tips
You may not need to bring luggage tags—many cruise lines give them to you at check-in.
Some lines allow you to bring a limited amount of wine or soda onboard (usually in carry-on only). Check your cruise line's policy.
Check if your cabin includes a clothesline or if you'll need a travel one.
Most cabins have a safe, USB ports, and a hairdryer—but double check what's provided.
Ask your room steward for more hangers, extra pillows, or even a clothing steamer (many ships provide these by request).
Final Pro Tips
If you're traveling with a partner or friend, split your clothes between both suitcases. That way, if one gets lost, you both still have enough to get by.
And lastly, don't overthink it. Most things are replaceable. But the key stuff—your passport, meds, documents, and comfort items—should always be with you in your carry-on.
