Is it your first time taking a cruise? Exciting times are ahead! If you’re feeling a bit anxious about what to pack, worry not—I’m here to help! Having personally taken 8 amazing cruises across 5 different cruise lines, I’ve experienced the packing journey firsthand. I’ve learned some valuable lessons along the way on what essentials to bring and what can stay at home. With my tips, I am hoping that you will feel more confident and prepared for your cruise adventure!
- Daytime wear: Pack at least 2 changes of clothes for each day—especially if you tend to sweat like a popsicle in middle of summer. Sure, cruise lines offer laundry services, but let’s be real, the cost of this can get a bit out of hand! You want a nice, comfy outfit for your daytime venture and another for dinner where they may not want to see you in your Bermuda shorts. For a 7-day Caribbean cruise, I usually bring 7 shirts and 6 pairs of shorts. If we decide to stay the day before and after the cruise at the embarkation port, I’ll throw in 1-2 more shirts and an extra pair of shorts or pants.
- Evening wear: On cruises that last 6 days or longer, prepare for two formal nights. For those on shorter trips of 5 days or less, you usually only get one night to show off your best attire. Gentlemen, you can wear a snazzy tuxedo or rock out some dress slacks with a shirt (bonus points if it’s got buttons). Ladies, bring out the bling – you can go wear anything from a chic skirt and blouse to a gorgeous evening gown that make you feel like a movie star! And hey, if channeling your inner prince or princess isn’t your vibe, no worries! You can visit the buffet where they will happily accept you and your “street clothes” for some casual dining. If you’re planning to eat in the main dining room, make sure your outfit is appropriate for the night. Your daily cruise letter, which is delivered to your stateroom nightly, will give you a head up on the dress code the night before. I usually pack two formal dresses and enough business casual outfits to wear something different each night at dinner.
- Swimsuits: Pack at least 2 (but honestly, let’s aim for 4—because who wants to be that person wearing the same wet swimsuit three days in a row?). Even if the weather outside is colder, there’s always a chance you’ll want to plunge into an indoor pool, soak in a hot tub, or indulge in a thermal spa (if your cruise ship has one, of course). Just remember, if you have a balcony, you can dry your swimsuits out there—but be on high alert for any windy situations; you don’t want your swimwear to take an unexpected vacation overboard!
- Sunscreen: This is a non-negotiable gem. Trust me, if you’re heading to a Caribbean cruise, sunscreen is your best friend. The sun doesn’t just sunbathe; it cranks up the heat even in the chilling months—especially in places like the Mediterranean. Forget to pack your sunscreen? No worries! You can always buy some onboard or at a cruise port, just be prepared to fork out a little extra dough. Nobody wants to turn into a lobster on their vacation!
- Hats/Sunglasses: Make sure you pack a baseball cap or a stylish sun hat—especially if your hairline is playing hide and seek! Trust me, it’s a great look for the ladies, too. Hats are a must at the beach where the sun is basically auditioning for a role in a horror movie. And let’s talk sunglasses! Please don’t forgot those shades! They are your ticket to avoiding sun-induced headaches and preventing you from squinting at that breathtaking view. It makes for better pictures too, so you are not winking at the camera!
- Beach Towels: Honestly, just leave these at home! Cruise ships will provide these for their guests at the pool, hot tub and thermal spa. If you really need one for an excursion, just “borrow” one from the pool area (they won’t miss it, promise) or have your room steward fetch one for you.
- Beach bag: This can be helpful on days when you are going on water adventures or for beach days. Not to mention, it does not take up that much space in your suitcase. Or it can double as your carry-on!
- Other swim accessories: Don’t forget to pack those tiny pool toys or arm floaties for the kiddos. The cruise line does provide life vests. Leave your the snorkel gear at home; if needed on an excursion then it will be provided to you. You may want to pack some swim goggles for the kids, or you! I opt for sundresses instead of cover-ups; they save space and double up as a fashion statement for those “beachy” or pool days. My husband likes to pack a few swim shirts for elusive sun protection; or maybe he is trying to look like a cool beach dad! I also throw in a long sleeve swim shirt or rashguard for those “I swear, I can stay in the sun forever” days.
- Waterproof Phone Case: When you are on vacation, no one wants to play “Will it survive the splash?” with their phone during a water adventure. You can find these pretty cheap on Amazon.
- Shoes: Bring comfortable walking shoes, dress shoes, and a pair of flip flops or sandals, especially if you will be in warmer climates. Remember to utilize the space inside your shoes for socks or undergarments when packing, this will also keep those shoes in their proper shape! I also pack water shoes for Caribbean trips so I can navigate rocky beaches and water activities safely.
- Coats/Jackets: If you’re heading to a colder climate, bring a multi-layer coat that will allow you to adjust for the ever-changing temperatures. For warmer weather, consider a rain jacket or pocket umbrella. Weather can change suddenly, and you don’t want to get caught in a downpour far from shelter or from the cruise ship.
- Blow dryers: Cruise ships come with blow dryers in the cabins so no need to take up room in your luggage with one. Now if you’re aiming for that perfect Hollywood look, toss in a curling iron or straightener—if your cruise line allows this, of course. Just remember, some cruise lines might have a no heating element policy so check with your cruise line about this prior to embarking. This will help to prevent a delay in getting your luggage delivered to your cabin as well as avoiding some embarrassment at security when they confiscate your prohibited items. And yes, I am speaking from experience here!
- Electronics: You find it beneficial to bring a laptop or tablet with you so you can stream your favorite show on those evenings where you could care less about partaking in the nightly cruise ship entertainment. Bringing a portable charger is a good idea as well in case there are not enough outlets to charge everything in your room. Or maybe you need a little extra juice for your phone while you are out on an excursion snapping hundreds of pics and taking videos. I mean why shouldn’t you brag to your friends and coworkers on Facebook or Instagram! Also don’t skimp on purchasing a disposable underwater camera, especially if you plan on snorkeling on vacation. And for those of you who managed to snag a GoPro, it’s a crime against humanity to leave that bad boy behind! You’ll thank yourself later when you’re living your best aquatic life in HD!
- Medications: Please, please don’t leave your prescription medications on your nightstand like they are a pair of forgotten socks! Pack them up in their original bottles, especially if you’re traveling internationally. While you might find some OTC medications on the ship, do you really want to take the chance that they might have what you need? I always bring my trusty ibuprofen and acetaminophen – you know, for those headaches or joint/muscle pain. I am not letting my trip get ruined from a headache or a backache! And let’s not forget the Pepcid or Tums for those “I ate too much at the buffet tonight” moments. Zofran can be your best friend when it comes to nausea. Likewise, Scopolamine can be a good buddy to have around if you’re prone to motion sickness. You will need a healthcare provider with prescriptive privileges to prescribe these last 2 for you.
Now, while this may seem like a detailed shopping list, trust me, from my countless exciting adventures at sea, I’ve learned that packing these essentials not only brings peace of mind but also helps me save money!
For more tips on what to expect the first time cruising, check out my other blog: Your guide to cruising: Tips for 1st time cruisers.
If you have any thoughts or questions, I’d love to hear from you in the comments below. Happy travels!
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