I never completely understood the point of cruises until I finally went on one myself. I was sold after that first experience.
I love the convenience of only having to unpack once, the camaraderie of cruise events, shows, and dinners, and the excitement of waking up in a new port each day.
Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or a first-timer, our packing list will make sure you’ve got everything you need for a fantastic adventure at sea.
Grab your suitcase, and let’s get packing!
Dress Code
Cruises often have a mix of casual and formal dress codes, depending on the itinerary and events. You’ll want to bring a range of outfits from relaxed daywear, like swimwear and sundresses, to something more elegant for formal nights or dining at specialty restaurants. Cultural excursions may require more conservative attire, so pack accordingly.
Tops & Layers
1. Short-Sleeve Shirts: Lightweight tees are a cruise staple for casual days and excursions, making them versatile and easy to pack.
2. Long-Sleeve Shirts: Breathable fabrics like cotton keep you comfortable on deck, perfect for cooler evenings or sun protection during the day.
3. Light Layer: I use this shirt a lot for hiking, but it’s also perfect for ship days or excursions when you want a light layer for a little more warmth or to protect from the sun. It has UPF 50+ fabric, and I love how breathable it is.
4. Waterproof Jacket: A must for unexpected rain showers, helping you stay dry during shore excursions.
5. Fleece Jacket: Warm and cozy, perfect for those cool, breezy nights on deck.
6. Packable Warm Jacket: Compact yet warm, perfect for stowing in your daypack for sudden temperature drops (depending on the destination).
Bottoms & Dresses
1. Excursion Pants: Lightweight pants that are practical and resilient for day excursions off the ship.
2. Lounging Pants: Ideal for lounging or casual dinners, these pieces offer both comfort and style.
3. Jeans: A versatile staple, dark wash jeans with some stretch are ideal for both casual exploring and dining onboard.
4. Shorts: Essential for hot days on the ship or exploring ports, quick-dry materials add convenience.
5. Dresses: Easy to dress up or down, dresses are perfect for transitioning from day to night.
6. Jumpsuit: Great for a chic, all-in-one outfit that’s comfortable and breathable.
Accessories & Casual Shoes
1. Comfortable Sneakers: Perfect for around the ship or on excursions, choose ones that offer good support for all-day walking.
2. Sandals: Ideal for casual wear on deck or at the beach.
3. Flip Flops: Super comfy with good grip, perfect for walking around a cruise ship to get to the pool, hot tub, spa, or simply to lounge. The last time I was on a cruise, I lived in these flip-flops on ship days, and they’re easily the comfiest flip-flops I’ve owned.
4. Baseball Cap: Great for sun protection and keeping your hair in check on windy days.
5. Beanie: Ideal for keeping warm on cooler evenings or in colder destinations.
6. Gloves: Pack a lightweight pair if you’re cruising to a chilly location.
7. Socks, Underwear, Bras: Don’t forget your daily essentials for comfort and hygiene.
8. Pajamas: Comfortable sleepwear for restful nights.
Evening Wear
1. Evening Gown: A glamorous option for formal nights, allowing you to look your best for fancy dinners.
2. Shawl/Scarf: A pashmina shawl is perfect as a cover-up on fancier evenings when the air conditioning is chilly, and it can double as a scarf in colder destinations.
3. Sheath Dress: Perfect for cocktail hours and semi-formal dinners, offering a sleek and stylish look.
4. Two-Piece Outfit: Stylish and comfortable, offering a chic alternative to dresses.
5. Heels: A must for formal nights or elegant evenings; just make sure they’re comfortable enough for a bit of dancing.
6. Flats: Comfortable and stylish, perfect for evenings when you don’t want to wear heels. I’ve tried a lot of flats at this point, and Rothy’s offer a classic style and comfort. I have a pair in Ecru, and they go with everything in my closet; they are very versatile, comfy, and breathable! I also love my Rose Gold Tieks for a little more glitz, and because they’re foldable for easy packing.
7. Jewelry: Elegant pieces, like a pair of statement earrings or a delicate necklace, add the perfect finishing touch to your evening attire.
Swimwear & Sun Protection
1. Swimsuit: Essential for pool days and beach excursions. Pack at least two for convenience.
2. Swimsuit Coverup: Great for transitioning from the pool to indoor areas without feeling exposed.
3. Face Sunscreen: Protects your face from harmful UV rays, crucial for sunny days on deck.
4. Reef-Safe Body Sunscreen: Important for protecting marine life during snorkeling or beach days.
5. Sun Hat: Provides extra sun protection for your face and neck, ideal for sunny days. I like this one because it has a neck strap for breezy days on deck.
6. Polarized Sunglasses: Protect your eyes from the sun’s glare, making outdoor activities more comfortable.
7. Lip Balm With SPF: Keeps your lips hydrated and protected from the sun, a small but essential item.
8. After Sun Lotion: Soothes your skin after a day in the sun, helping to prevent peeling and irritation.
Luggage & Packs
1. Carry-On: Ideal for keeping your essentials close during travel and boarding.
2. Suitcase: Choose a durable and easy-to-maneuver option for your cruise and travels.
3. Packing Cubes: Help keep your suitcase organized, maximize space, and make it easy to find and access your items without unpacking everything.
5. Daypack: Useful for day trips and excursions, keeping your belongings organized and easy to carry.
6. Belt Bag: Great for more active excursions when you want something compact and close to your body that leaves you hands-free.
7. Crossbody Purse: A crossbody bag is great for exploring new cities and having nicer dinners on a cruise. This second option is a little bigger and fits a Kindle, which is ideal for taking around the deck during the day.
Wearing my Kuhl Freeflex Roll-Up Pant on our Alaska cruise (left). These were my go-to excursion pants with a pair of thermal leggings underneath. Wearing my Rose Gold Glam Tieks for a cruise formal night (right).
Cruise Essentials
- Reusable Water Bottle: For excursions and to help you stay hydrated throughout the day. I rarely go anywhere without my reusable water bottle.
- Power Strip: Cruise cabins often have limited outlets, so a power strip can definitely be handy. Make sure to get one that’s non-surge protected since some cruise ships prohibit them.
- Hanging Toiletry Bag: Keeps your toiletries organized and easily accessible in your cabin bathroom.
- Sleep Mask: Helps block out light for better sleep.
- White Noise Machine: Useful for drowning out background noise and getting a peaceful sleep.
- Ear Plugs: Handy for blocking out noise, especially if you’re a light sleeper.
- Jewelry Case: Keeps your jewelry organized and tangle-free.
- Binoculars: I tried three different binoculars for our Alaska cruise, and these were my favorite since they fit my face comfortably while still giving me a decent range of view.
- Snorkel: Great for underwater adventures and exploring marine life if you’re going to a tropical location.
- Dry Bag: Keeps your belongings dry during water-based activities and excursions.
- Beach Tote: Perfect for carrying all of your beach essentials if you’re cruising to islands and beach destinations.
- Water Shoes: Protect your feet while exploring rocky shores or walking in the water. Another item to bring if you’re going to warm destinations where you’ll be in the water a lot.
- Travel Umbrella: Compact and easy to carry, great for unexpected rain showers.
- Deck of Cards / Fox in the Forest: Great for entertainment during downtime or socializing with new friends.
- Luggage Tags: Essential for identifying your luggage quickly and easily.
- Rubber Ducks: Join the cruise duck tradition and hide one or two around the ship. Don’t know what this tradition is? I explain it in the FAQs below.
- Portable Charger: Keeps your devices powered up, especially useful during long excursions.
- Universal Travel Adapter: This universal adapter works in 200+ countries, great to bring in case you need to charge your devices while off the ship.
- E-sim: I’ve used Airalo in four countries, and it’s the best solution if you want to have data in a different country while off the ship but don’t want to deal with expensive roaming charges.
- Smartphone: Essential for staying connected, taking photos, and using cruise apps.
- Tablet: I use my iPad mainly for watching shows and movies and checking emails while traveling.
- GoPro: Ideal for capturing underwater adventures or action-packed activities.
- Memory Card for GoPro: This is the one I use for my GoPro; high-quality and reliable.
- Waterproof Phone Case: I only recommend getting one of these if you don’t want to get a GoPro.
- Kindle: Perfect for relaxing on deck or in your cabin. I prefer Kindles over physical books because they provide endless books.
- Noise-Canceling Headphones: Great for blocking out noise during travel or relaxing on the ship.
- Air Tags: Helps you keep track of your luggage and other important items.
- Chargers: Don’t forget all the chargers you need to keep your devices running.
- Reusable Containers for Toiletries: Eco-friendly and perfect for carrying your favorite products in travel sizes.
- Electric Toothbrush: I’ve tried those tiny travel toothbrushes, and they just don’t work for me.
- Toothpaste: These are the perfect travel size that lasts about a month or so for two people.
- Floss: Any floss will do.
- Natural Deodorant: I finally discovered a good natural deodorant. Plus, it’s small, so it’s perfect for travel.
- Shampoo: I get the large size and then just put it in my mini travel containers.
- Conditioner: Same as above. I don’t worry about bringing body wash since I’m okay using whatever’s provided.
- Panty Liners: For when you want some extra protection. Also great for sweaty travel days to keep you more dry.
- Tampons: I like that these are made without plastic, and they’re easy to put into small purses and travel with.
- Tide to Go Pen: Surprisingly handy for getting out those random stains or spills.
- Hairbrush: An item that I don’t get in travel size because it’s not worth it for me. I’d rather have a full-size brush for my thick hair.
- Hair Ties: Any brand works, but I also make sure to have plenty on hand in my bags. You never know when you’ll need them. That wind is no joke sometimes on cruise ships.
- Face Cleanser: This is another one that I usually get a large bottle and then put it into my refillable travel containers.
- Moisturizer: I’ve tried many fancy moisturizers, and I’ve realized that the simplest ones often work the best for me.
- Overnight Face Mask: I use this in daily life as well, but during travel it’s especially good because it’s so hydrating. I usually put in on every other night or every 3 nights depending on how dry my face is from travel.
- Makeup: I always bring lip gloss/lipstick, my Clinique CC Cream + makeup brush, and mascara. Everything else is added on depending on the vibes of the trip.
- Travel Razor: I love this size and how easy it is to change the razor heads once a week.
- Razor Replacements: I usually bring enough to replace the razor head once per week while traveling.
- Hydrating Face Sheets: Perfect for a quick hydration boost after a day in the sun.
- Dry Bar Blow Dryer Brush: Another luxury item. It’s bulky to bring (and I don’t always bring it), but it’s a versatile tool for looking more put together in non-humid destinations.
- Heat Protectant Spray: For the Dry Bar Brush.
- Bug Spray: Essential for excursions where insects might be a nuisance. This is the most effective spray I’ve found that doesn’t use DEET.
- Tylenol: Useful for headaches or minor aches and pains.
- Motion Sickness Pills: Crucial for preventing seasickness on rough sea days.
- Tums: Handy for dealing with indigestion or heartburn with all that rich cruise food and the constant eating.
- Pepto Bismol: Soothes an upset stomach.
- Electrolyte Powder: Great for staying hydrated, especially after a day in the sun.
- Band-Aids: Useful for minor cuts and blisters.
- Anti-Septic Wipes: Keep wounds clean and prevent infection.
- Melatonin: Helps with sleep, especially if you’re adjusting to a new time zone.
- Hand Sanitizer: Essential for keeping your hands clean when soap and water aren’t available. Love attaching one of these to my daypack for excursion days.
- Other Travel Medications: Pack any personal medications you might need.
- Passport and Travel Documents – Essential for boarding and shore excursions, keep them safe and handy.
- Cruise Boarding Pass – Needed for check-in and boarding the ship.
- Credit Cards and Cash – Useful for onboard expenses and purchases at ports of call.
- Copies of Important Documents – Keep copies of your passport, insurance, and other important documents in case of loss.
- Photocopy of Passport (hidden in your pack)
- Travel Insurance – Nice to have in case of any medical or travel emergencies.
What to Know Before You Pack
- Know the dress code: Cruise lines often have specific dress codes for different times of day, especially for dinner. Make sure you pack a mix of casual daywear and more formal evening outfits.
- Consider the weather: Check the forecast for both your departure port and your destinations to pack appropriately for different climates.
- Pack for activities: Think about what you’ll be doing on your cruise—whether it’s lounging by the pool, exploring ports, or participating in onboard events—and pack accordingly.
I lived in my Olukai Ohana Flip Flops and my Lululemon Belt Bag on my last cruise from San Francisco (left). Wearing my RecTrek Pants from Outdoor Voices in Alaska (right). My only regret was bringing a light color since the ship’s black soot ended up staining them. This is why darker bottoms are recommended on a cruise!
Cruise Travel FAQs
HOW MUCH LUGGAGE SHOULD I BRING ON A CRUISE?
Most cruise lines don’t have strict luggage restrictions, but it’s advisable to pack light and use one large suitcase per person, plus a carry-on. Make sure your luggage is manageable, especially during embarkation and disembarkation
WHAT SHOULD I PACK IN MY CARRY-ON BAG?
Pack essentials such as travel documents, medications, a change of clothes, toiletries, electronics, and any valuables in your carry-on. This way, you have the necessary items with you if your checked luggage is delayed.
DO I NEED FORMAL WEAR FOR A CRUISE?
Yes, many cruises have formal nights where guests are encouraged to dress up. Men typically wear suits or tuxedos, and women wear cocktail dresses or evening gowns. Check your cruise line’s dress code for specifics.
WHAT KIND OF SHOES SHOULD I PACK?
Pack a mix of comfortable walking shoes for excursions, sandals or flip-flops for poolside, and dress shoes for formal nights. Break them in before the trip to avoid blisters.
IS THERE A LIMIT TO HOW MANY TOILETRIES I CAN BRING?
Unlike air travel, there are no liquid restrictions for toiletries on cruises. However, bringing travel-sized toiletries can save space. Most ships provide basic toiletries, but you might prefer your own.
SHOULD I BRING A POWER STRIP?
Yes, cabins often have limited outlets, so a power strip can be handy. Make sure it’s a non-surge protected strip, as some cruise lines prohibit surge protectors for safety reasons.
DO I NEED TO PACK BEACH TOWELS?
Most cruise lines provide beach towels for use on the ship and during shore excursions, so it’s usually unnecessary to pack your own. However, check with your cruise line to be sure.
WHAT ITEMS ARE PROHIBITED ON A CRUISE?
Common prohibited items include irons, candles, and certain types of alcohol. Each cruise line has specific policies, so review their guidelines before packing.
WHAT SHOULD I WEAR ON EMBARKATION DAY?
Wear comfortable clothes and pack a swimsuit and a change of clothes in your carry-on, as your luggage might not be delivered to your cabin until later in the day. Comfortable shoes are also recommended for walking around the ship.
DO I NEED TO BRING MY OWN HAIRDRYER?
Most cruise cabins come equipped with a hairdryer, but they are often not very powerful. If you prefer a stronger or specific type of hairdryer, you might want to bring your own.
HOW SHOULD I PACK FOR DIFFERENT CLIMATES?
Pack layers that can be added or removed easily if your cruise includes varying climates. Here’s a breakdown of how to layer effectively:
- Base Layer: Pack lightweight, moisture-wicking clothing as your base layer. Materials like merino wool or synthetic fabrics are great for regulating body temperature and keeping sweat away from your skin. Example: A merino wool t-shirt or a synthetic long-sleeve shirt.
- Mid Layer: This is for insulation. Choose items that can keep you warm but are also breathable. Fleece jackets, lightweight sweaters, or long-sleeve shirts work well. Example: A Patagonia Better Sweater or a Columbia fleece jacket.
- Outer Layer: Your outer layer should protect you from wind, rain, and cold. A waterproof jacket, a packable down jacket, or a windbreaker are excellent choices. Example: A North Face Resolve 2 jacket for rain and a packable down jacket for cold weather.
CAN I BRING MY OWN ALCOHOL ON BOARD?
Policies vary by cruise line. Some allow you to bring a limited amount of wine or champagne, but most prohibit bringing your own spirits. Check with your specific cruise line for their alcohol policy.
DO I NEED TO BRING MY OWN SNORKELING GEAR?
While many shore excursions provide snorkeling gear, bringing your own can mean a better fit and comfort. If you plan to snorkel frequently or do your own thing on port days instead of excursions, it might be worth packing.
WHAT’S THE RUBBER DUCKY TRADITION ON CRUISES?
The rubber ducky tradition involves hiding small rubber ducks around the ship for others to find. Participants often attach a tag with their name, the ship’s name, and the cruise date, and use social media to share their findings.