What to pack for a cruise

It’s almost time to say “bon voyage!” But before you can enjoy life at sea, you must pack. Unlike other vacations, there most likely won’t be a superstore you can stop by for last-minute essentials. Whether you’re sailing in Alaska or cruising the Caribbean, we’ve got you covered when it comes to packing needs. Here are our top tips to keep your luggage shipshape.

1. Be mindful with the size of your luggage

It’s important to keep in mind that cruise staterooms tend to be on the smaller side. Whether you’re bringing a carry-on or checked bag, it’s going to take up valuable space in your temporary living quarters. Cruise lines provide stateroom dimensions online, and it's a good idea to review before packing because bigger isn’t always better. Newer ships have made intentional choices to offer thoughtfully designed rooms, which include the addition of more shelving to help when storing your belongings at your temporary home at sea.

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2. An efficient carry-on is essential

Truth be told, it is possible to pack just a carry-on for a cruise, whether it’s a long weekend or a 10-day sailing. It’s one of those “work smarter, not harder” situations; you can do it, and you’ll be grateful you didn’t bring unnecessary items. On embarkation day, you can expedite the process by carrying your own bag onboard. If you choose to check a bag, it might not arrive until late afternoon or early evening.

With your embarkation bag, make sure you pack your passport, valuables, an extra outfit, a lightweight jacket and a swimsuit. You’ll also want to keep any medicines on your person. In addition to pain relievers, consider packing anti-diarrhea medication, Dramamine, allergy medicine, and saline drops as the air is typically drier on board.

3. It's worth having GPS trackers on your luggage

Whether you’re a travel pro or a newbie, you’ve likely been preached the necessity of a GPS tracker, such as an AirTag, on your luggage. When you arrive at the port and check your bag, you won't see it again until it's delivered to your cabin, possibly not until the evening. A tracker means you can see its progress between port and ship and avoid that nerve-racking period of uncertainty when you're waiting for it to arrive. It's rare for a bag to be left behind, but it's nice to have the peace of mind that yours is on board.

4. Keep organized and tidy with these small items

Along the way, we’ve discovered many unexpected hacks that can dramatically enhance your vacation. Maximizing space in your stateroom is key, and to do so, magnetic hooks instantly up your storage space; and you can hang everything from hats to tote bags. And speaking of tote bags, it’s always a good idea to bring a collapsible tote, which can be used for souvenirs, laundry or as a pool bag. Over the door and hanging toiletry bags are another great way to keep organized while saving space.

Bring a key card lanyard with you so you can carry your cruise key with you at all times. You'll need it for any onboard purchases and to access your room. Water cups are generally small on cruise ships, so bring a reusable water bottle to refill. If you’re a soda or coffee drinker, an insulated tumbler is also a good idea, and will keep your beverages frosty cold or toasty warm. 

Ziploc bags. Bring them. You never know how it will come in handy (but they do!), perhaps for storing wet items or grouping souvenirs together. Stain removers, such as Tide to go pens, can also prove vital for refreshing your clothes and freeing them up to be worn again.

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Many cruise lines only offer a combination of shampoo and conditioner, which might not suit your hair type, so consider bringing your own toiletries. You might also want to bring other items not traditionally offered, like cotton swabs. Rewearable basic layers are a great way to pack efficiently and light. Consider solid color clothing that can be mixed and matched.  

Whether you’re splurging on a drink package or not, consider packing powdered drink packets including electrolytes. These take up very little room in your luggage and give you the chance to switch it up from water. On many cruise lines, room service is often not included. Consider packing some light snacks, like protein bars and pretzels, to have on hand for when hunger strikes.

Looking to hit the pool? In addition to flip-flops and a bathing suit, bring chair clips. It can get windy at sea, and these will ensure your towel stays in its place. 

5. Check your technology needs

As on any vacation, you might appreciate having a portable charger with you to use by the pool or while exploring ports. It’s also a good idea to bring a waterproof phone case. Decks can be hot, so consider packing a neck or handheld fan.  

6. Pack the right weather essentials

Whether you’re cruising to the Bahamas or through the Mediterranean, a daily SPF is a must. It’s also a good idea to bring a hat and sunglasses for further sun protection. Water shoes can be a game-changer, especially on beaches with rocky terrain. 

7. Be prepared for themed fun

Many cruise lines offer themed nights. On Disney Cruise Line, this includes Pirate Night, while on Royal Caribbean, there are various themed evenings, such as 1970s and toga parties. Live it up! You don’t want to be left out of the fun.  

It’s a popular trend to decorate your stateroom door. Many cruisers will bring customized magnets with them, while some will offer freebies to other guests, like candy or small trinkets. 

8. Get a good night's sleep

Cruise hallways can often be loud, with other excited cruisers hurrying onto their next meal or activity. In order to have the best time, a great night's sleep is a must. Bring items that can ensure a restful night, like a white noise machine, eye mask, melatonin, earplugs and a portable nightlight.

What to pack for a cruise

For a warm-weather cruise: A top layer or sweater is a good idea, even in hot destinations, as many guest spaces – such as theaters and restaurants – tend to run cold. Snorkeling is a favorite cruise activity, but the rental equipment is typically not top quality, so you might want to consider bringing your own snorkel gear. 

The following packing list is far from all-purpose, but it's a solid starting point.

Clothing

• tops and T-shirts

• button-down shirt

• sundress

• shorts

• pants

• underwear

• socks

• workout outfit

• bathing suits and cover-ups

• lightweight jacket

• sweatshirt or sweater or wrap

• sport coat

• dress or suit for dinner or formal night, including a tie

• outfits for theme nights

• pajamas

Accessories

• sneakers or comfortable walking shoes

• sandals or durable flip flops

• dress shoes for the evening

• belt

• jewelry

• wide-brimmed sun hat or baseball hat

• sunglasses

• snorkel gear

Necessities

• passport

• wallet

• keys

• medications (and the prescription), including pain killers and any other over-the-counter drugs you rely on

• seasickness remedies and motion sickness tablets (many cruises will have these too)

• tissues

• Band-Aids

• hand sanitizer

• face masks (in case you're ill or next to someone who is)

• earplugs

• books or an e-reader

• mobile phone, or tablet or laptop

• headphones (wired or unwired or noise-cancelling, according to your wants)

• chargers and adaptors

For a cold-weather cruise: Packing for a cold-weather cruise is an entirely different ball game. It’s often all about taking in the stunning sights, so binoculars are a great way to not miss a single thing, whether it's Norway’s fjords or Alaska’s bounty of wildlife. 

A rain jacket is essential, and you’ll want to make sure it’s not just water-resistant, but waterproof. Sturdy waterproof hiking boots are also imperative. You’ll want to bring along moisture-wicking socks as well. Depending on the time of year, a warm hat and gloves might be necessary. During the Alaskan summer sailing season, temperatures can vastly change throughout the day. On colder-weather sailings, the dress code is typically more laid-back than on a Caribbean cruise.