25 Things to Pack for a Cruise to Keep Yourself Prepared for Anything (2024)

25 Things to Pack for a Cruise to Keep Yourself Prepared for Anything (1)

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Coming up with a comprehensive list of things to pack in your overstuffed luggage for a cruise can feel overwhelming, especially if it’s your first time. After all, you can’t just run to the pharmacy or a department store when you’re at sea, so you’ll want to make sure you have everything you might need (plus a few extra things to keep you comfy and entertained every day that you’re sailing the ocean).

Fortunately, we’ve taken the stress out of the equation by coming up with 25 items just about every cruiser will be glad they have on the ship. You’ll find lots of products to protect yourself from the sun, accessories to charge your phone and other electronics, beach gear and items to make the most of your excursions, and some self-care essentials to help you feel your best during your getaway. All that’s left is figuring out what you want to wear (and we’ve got a couple of fashion finds to suggest, too!).

Dig out your suitcase—here’s a look at what to pack for a cruise, whether you’re going on a family-friendly mega ship or a luxurious, intimate river cruise. Whether you're cruising yourself or getting a gift for a fellow cruiser, this list has what you need.

1

For Peace of Mind

CruisePaks Cruise Essentials Personal First Aid Kit

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1

For Peace of Mind

CruisePaks Cruise Essentials Personal First Aid Kit

Whether you stub a toe, nick yourself while shaving, or get bit by a bug, you can take care of any minor injuries on a cruise or excursion with this Cruise Essentials Personal First Aid Kit. The versatile package contains an impressive 150 items to help you address health issues on your travels.

In addition to typical medical products like bandages and ointments, it also includes a few other items, such as a single-use poncho and a toothbrush, that you might find handy during your trip.

2

For the Adventurer

JIELV Lightweight Packable Backpack

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25 Things to Pack for a Cruise to Keep Yourself Prepared for Anything (4)

2

For the Adventurer

JIELV Lightweight Packable Backpack

When you’re heading off the ship for adventurous shores, you’ll need a reliable backpack to stash your gear for the day—and this one from JIELV will do the trick. Weighing in at less than a pound, this foldable day pack takes up hardly any space in your luggage.

It features several compartments to help you stay organized on hikes, at the beach, during wildlife-watching trips, or on cultural city tours. Choose from seven different colors and prints.

3

For the "Deck"orator

BBTO Decorative Cruise Door Magnets

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3

For the "Deck"orator

BBTO Decorative Cruise Door Magnets

One of the most fun things to do after settling into your cruise cabin is decorating outside of the door, so you can express some creativity and make it easy to know at a glance which space is yours.

This 25-piece decorative magnet set includes a mix of cruise-inspired images, like an octopus, seahorse, anchor, and a nautical ship wheel, all of which can be used to create a unique scene on your door. Little cruisers will especially love changing the scene from day to day!

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4

Shoes for Excursions

Xero Shoes Aqua X Sport Water Shoe

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4

Shoes for Excursions

Xero Shoes Aqua X Sport Water Shoe

A set of durable, comfortable water shoes, like these ones from Xero Shoes, is a must-have for a cruise if you want to make the most of your shore excursions.

Lightweight and packable, these versatile shoes are designed for wet, humid conditions in the great outdoors. They’ll protect your feet on any active excursion, whether you’re exploring a remote rocky beach or hiking through waterfalls. And thanks to the nonabsorbent tongue and quick-dry lining, these shoes won’t stay sopping wet for hours on end.

Xero also has a version of the water shoes for men, which could make a perfect gift for your favorite globetrotting guy.

5

Keycard Convenience

BESARME Cruise Lanyard Badge Holder

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25 Things to Pack for a Cruise to Keep Yourself Prepared for Anything (8)

5

Keycard Convenience

BESARME Cruise Lanyard Badge Holder

Now 10% Off

No pockets? No problem. With this lanyard, you can wear your cruise keycard right around your neck. Available as a set of three, each adjustable lanyard is made from soft, comfortable fabric decked out in a tropical print that’s perfect for wearing around the ship. It also includes plastic sleeves to protect your keycard, credit cards, cash, ID, or anything else you want to have on hand, as well as a clip for your phone.

The best part? Each lanyard has a retractable badge reel, so you can use your keycard to unlock your cabin without taking it off your neck. Convenient!

6

For International Travelers

JMFONE Universal Travel Adapter

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25 Things to Pack for a Cruise to Keep Yourself Prepared for Anything (10)

6

For International Travelers

JMFONE Universal Travel Adapter

Now 13% Off

Going abroad to take a cruise? Then, you’ll want to have a universal travel adapter on hand to keep all your devices charged. This innovative model has built-in adapters that work in more than 160 countries. Simply slide the lever for the region you’re in, and the correct plug type will pop out of the back of the case.

In addition to the conventional power outlet, it also contains four USB ports, so you can charge up to five devices at the same time. You’ll be glad you have it on hand if you’re exploring a port of call and you realize you forgot to charge your phone or if you end up spending an extra night or two at your final international destination before heading home.

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7

For Much Needed Air

JISULIFE Desk Fan

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25 Things to Pack for a Cruise to Keep Yourself Prepared for Anything (12)

7

For Much Needed Air

JISULIFE Desk Fan

Now 21% Off

Ship staterooms and cabins can get a little stuffy, so consider packing this rechargeable desk fan for your next cruise. The ultra-slim fan weighs less than half a pound and easily slides into your luggage.

It has a 180-degree swivel base that can be used as a stand or as a hanger for a hook. With four speed settings, you can get just the right level of airflow to keep you cool.

8

Maximize Your Space

Neosmuk Magnetic Hooks

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8

Maximize Your Space

Neosmuk Magnetic Hooks

Experienced cruisers know that magnetic hooks can be a game changer for maxing out your in-cabin storage. Since the walls and ceilings of many cruise cabins are made of metal, they provide a magnetic surface for these hooks from Neosmuk to grip onto.

The strong magnets can support up to 40 pounds of weight, but chances are good that you’ll mainly use them for light things, like a damp towel, a hat, keys, a jacket, or even camera gear.

9

For the Swimmer

TOWEL CRABBER Towel Bands

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9

For the Swimmer

TOWEL CRABBER Towel Bands

This six-pack of towel bands from Towel Crabber will do double duty on the pool deck of your cruise. Like a giant rubber band, they snap around your lounge chair to keep your towel firmly in place, even on breezy days at sea.

The brightly colored bands also help you claim a chair and find it among the rows of loungers after you’re done splashing around the pool.

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10

For Powerful UV Protection

TIJN Oversized Round Polarized Sunglasses

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10

For Powerful UV Protection

TIJN Oversized Round Polarized Sunglasses

Whether you’re cruising through the Caribbean or up the coast of Alaska, you’re going to get lots of sunshine on deck, so you’ll want to pack sunglasses. These ones from TIJN boast scratch-resistant UV400 protection lenses that filter out nearly 100% of harmful ultraviolet rays.

But more than just functional, these shades are fashion-forward with their oversized tea-hued lenses and opal tortoise frames. They're affordable enough that you won't feel bad when you inevitably forget them somewhere on the deck.

11

Light Where You Need It

Kathfly Motion Sensor Night Light (2-Pack)

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11

Light Where You Need It

Kathfly Motion Sensor Night Light (2-Pack)

If you need to get up to use the bathroom or grab a glass of water in the middle of the night, you’ll be grateful to have a night light like this one in your cabin. Its magnetic base allows the light to stay in place on metal walls or even the ceiling.

It has a standard on/off switch, as well as a motion sensor that can turn it on automatically when you move around. This rechargeable night light offers continuous light for up to five hours, so you won’t need to plug it in very often.

12

For Your Wrinkled Mess

Bounce Rapid Touch-Up Wrinkle Release Spray

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12

For Your Wrinkled Mess

Bounce Rapid Touch-Up Wrinkle Release Spray

Now 25% Off

Irons are strictly prohibited from staterooms due to the risk of fire, but you can still smooth out clothes that have gotten creased in your bag with Bounce Rapid Touch-Up Wrinkle Release Spray.

Just spritz a little on your garment from about 6 inches away, then tug and smooth it with your hands to get rid of wrinkles. You’ll be ready for fine dining and formal night in a flash.

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13

For the Nauseous Cruiser

Dramamine Less Drowsy Formula for Motion Sickness

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25 Things to Pack for a Cruise to Keep Yourself Prepared for Anything (20)

13

For the Nauseous Cruiser

Dramamine Less Drowsy Formula for Motion Sickness

Now 34% Off

Nothing can ruin your cruise quite like seasickness, so you’ll want to keep some treatment on hand, just in case it takes you a bit of time to get your sea legs. Dramamine’s less drowsy motion sickness medication can provide relief from seasickness for up to 24 hours without making you too sleepy to enjoy the ship.

Can’t do pills? Try Dramamine’s chewable tablet version of the formula instead. It comes in a pleasant raspberry flavor.

14

For the One Who Loves to Stay Organized

BAGSMART Hanging Toiletry Bag

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25 Things to Pack for a Cruise to Keep Yourself Prepared for Anything (22)

14

For the One Who Loves to Stay Organized

BAGSMART Hanging Toiletry Bag

Now 38% Off

Cruise ship bathrooms can be notoriously cramped, but that doesn’t mean it has to become a cluttered mess. This hanging toiletry bag from BAGSMART can hang from a towel rack or hook to keep all your self-care essentials off the sink and counter, but still within easy reach.

Available in a dozen fun colors, the cosmetic bag contains four separate zip-up compartments to organize your grooming products and keep them from leaking all over.

When your cruise is over, the entire kit folds up into a grab-and-go bag with handles for easy packing and travel.

15

Protect Your Skin

Coppertone Every Tone SPF 50 Sunscreen Lotion

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25 Things to Pack for a Cruise to Keep Yourself Prepared for Anything (24)

15

Protect Your Skin

Coppertone Every Tone SPF 50 Sunscreen Lotion

Now 24% Off

The sun's rays are harsh at sea, and you want a safe, effective sunscreen to block those bad boys. Coppertone's Every Tone SPF50 sunscreen was our pick for Best New Sunscreen for the 2024 Best Products Beauty Awards. It is a mineral sunscreen that blends out clear on all skin tones without feeling sticky or making you smell like a banana.

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16

For the Hat Girlies

Olive & Cocoa Lucinda Raffia Sun Hat

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16

For the Hat Girlies

Olive & Cocoa Lucinda Raffia Sun Hat

Look stylish while keeping the sun off your face on the cruise deck with the Lucinda Raffia Sun Hat. Made from 100% natural raffia, the hand-crocheted hat features a 6-inch wired brim, cotton sweatband lining, and a chic brown and gold ribbon band.

Keep it on hand if you tend to slack off on reapplying SPF or you want an eye-catching accessory to pop on during your excursions.

17

Effortless Cover-Up

Blooming Jelly Womens Bathing Suit Coverup

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25 Things to Pack for a Cruise to Keep Yourself Prepared for Anything (27)

17

Effortless Cover-Up

Blooming Jelly Womens Bathing Suit Coverup

Now 30% Off

Of all the garments you pack for a cruise, your swimsuit cover-up will probably get the most use, so it’s worth treating yourself to a new one like this ruffled piece from Blooming Jelly.

With its mid-length sleeves and midi-hem, it offers just the right amount of sun protection without causing you to overheat. The polyester fabric will dry fast in the sun, too.

18

On-the-Go Relaxation

POPBAND Popmask Calm Self-Warming Eye Masks

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25 Things to Pack for a Cruise to Keep Yourself Prepared for Anything (29)

18

On-the-Go Relaxation

POPBAND Popmask Calm Self-Warming Eye Masks

Now 25% Off

Popmask’s self-warming eye masks will become your new BFF for sleeping well on your cruise. Printed with an ocean-inspired design, each mask warms up automatically just 30 seconds after you open it and provides active pressure around the eyes to induce deep relaxation. It stays warm for 10 minutes — just enough time to lull you into a slumber.

Use it on your flight to the departure port to ensure you’re well-rested on day one of your cruise, and keep some on hand when you need to nurse a hangover after dancing at the cruise nightclub until dawn.

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19

For the Device Fanatic

Anker Magnetic Battery

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25 Things to Pack for a Cruise to Keep Yourself Prepared for Anything (31)

19

For the Device Fanatic

Anker Magnetic Battery

Now 29% Off

The last thing you need to see when you’re on a cruise and trying to capture every memorable moment is a low battery alert pop up on your phone. But if you carry this magnetic portable charger from Anker in your bag, you won’t have to worry about whether you forgot to charge your phone for the day.

The sleek, slim device can snap on to the back of any MagSafe phone to charge it fast, and it holds enough power to provide several full recharges. It also has a built-in foldable kickstand to keep your phone upright, making it easy to read the news while sipping your morning coffee.

20

For the Shutterbug

Yeaki Selfie Stick Tripod

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25 Things to Pack for a Cruise to Keep Yourself Prepared for Anything (33)

20

For the Shutterbug

Yeaki Selfie Stick Tripod

Now 29% Off

From high-end dinners and pool time to once-in-a-lifetime excursions and cotton-candy sunsets at sea, your cruise will be filled with photo ops. Capture every moment — with you as the subject of each photo! — using this selfie stick.

It can extend to give you the most flattering angles in your impromptu selfie photoshoot and double as a tripod with a Bluetooth remote so that you can take pics with everyone in the family.

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Joni Sweet

Freelancer

Joni Sweet is a freelance writer who covers travel, health, wellness, and anything else that piques her interest. When she's not traveling the globe in search of stories, she can be found sprucing up her home in the Hudson Valley, playing with her two cats, practicing yoga, cooking vegetarian food, and hitting New York's rail trails on her bike. She has written for Real Simple, Forbes, SELF, Health, TIME, Lonely Planet, Frommer's, and dozens of other publications. Learn more at www.jonimsweet.com.

25 Things to Pack for a Cruise to Keep Yourself Prepared for Anything (2024)

FAQs

How do you know what to pack for a cruise? ›

What to Pack for a Cruise
  1. Bring activity-appropriate clothing and shoes. ...
  2. Bring a Back Pack or Beach Tote. ...
  3. Bring Sunscreen and After-Sun Lotion. ...
  4. Bring Your Own Toiletries. ...
  5. Bring Medications for Upset Stomach and Motion Sickness. ...
  6. Bring an Underwater Camera. ...
  7. Bring Cash for Tipping. ...
  8. Bring a Portable Back Up Battery Charger.

How to pack for a 60 day cruise? ›

Pack light and pack layers to maximize space. If you're the type that tends to overpack, try laying out all the items you think you'll need first and then pack half that amount as a starting point. Aim to choose pieces that can be worn multiple times or can be mix-and-matched within your wardrobe.

What should be in my cruise carry on? ›

Anatomy of a Cruise Carry-On
  • Passport**, ID and cruise documents. ** You will need to present all your official documents before you're allowed to board the ship. ...
  • Credit card and cash. ...
  • Medications. ...
  • Swimwear and workout gear. ...
  • Camera, cell phone, laptop and other valuables. ...
  • Change of clothes. ...
  • Kid stuff. ...
  • Toiletries.
Feb 17, 2020

What would you need to go on a cruise? ›

12 Things You Should Always Bring On A Cruise Ship
  1. Bring: Backpack or Beach Bag for Excursions.
  2. Bring: Universal Travel Adapter With USB Ports.
  3. Bring: Your Passport.
  4. Bring: Magnetic Hooks.
  5. Bring: Seasickness Solutions.
  6. Bring: Waterproof Phone Pouch.
  7. Bring: Embarkation Day Bag.
  8. Bring: Sun and Insect Protection.
Dec 1, 2023

What is not allowed on a cruise? ›

All weapons and any item made, adapted or intended for use as an offensive weapon: firearms (including replicas, imitations and their components), spears or spear guns, crossbows, crossbow bolts and long bow arrows; blunt weapons, including knuckle dusters, brass knuckles, clubs, coshes, batons, flails or Nunchaku; ...

What is not allowed in luggage on a cruise? ›

Banned Items on Cruise Ships: List
  • Alcohol. ...
  • Illegal Drugs. ...
  • CBD. ...
  • Weapons, Ammunition & Imitation Weapons. ...
  • Knives, or Scissors with blades longer than 4inches. ...
  • Irons & Steamers. ...
  • Extension Leads. ...
  • Coffee Maker, Kettles, and Hot Plates.

Do you dress up every night on a cruise? ›

Shorter cruises feature one Evening Chic night. On all other nights of the cruise, guests are asked to wear smart casual attire.

How many times a day do you change clothes on a cruise? ›

On a 3 day cruise, most likely an outfit change will happen twice per day. Of course you will need one or two glamorous outfits, for eveningwear . I usually change 3 times a day on a cruise. There are so many events, shows, lounges and restaurants to check out.

How much money should you carry-on a cruise? ›

Most guests bring $50-$120 cash per day to spend during the cruise. You will have many opportunities to purchase duty free goods, take exciting shore excursions, buy local souvenirs, play your chance in the casino, or enjoy some pampering in the spa.

What is the best carry-on bag for a cruise? ›

The 10 Best Pieces of Luggage To Take With You on a Cruise
  • The Monos Metro Duffle Bag.
  • The Away Carry-on.
  • CALPAK Compakt Large Garment Bag.
  • lululemon Clean Lines Tote Bag 22L.
  • The Everlane ReNew Transit Backpack.
  • Athleta All About Tote Bag.
  • L.L. Bean Personal Organizer Toiletry Bag.
  • CALPAK Packing Cubes 5-Piece Set.
Oct 27, 2023

How to pack lightly for a cruise? ›

Packing Light for a Cruise: Tips for Efficient Travel
  1. Create a Packing List. First, compile a cruise packing checklist as a jump board. ...
  2. Invest in a Hard-Shell Suitcase. ...
  3. Pack a Carry-on Bag. ...
  4. Choose Functional Outfits. ...
  5. Sort Out Your Day and Evening Wear. ...
  6. Don't Forget to Layer. ...
  7. Pack the Right Footwear. ...
  8. Get Travel Size Products.
Nov 14, 2023

How much money can you carry-on a cruise? ›

The answer to this question varies a lot by person, their travel habits, spending preferences, length of the cruise and destination. Many people suggest $100 per day, and this has generally worked well for me in my cruising experiences. Here are some guidelines to help you decide how much money to bring on a cruise.

What kind of ID do I need for a cruise? ›

For all other cruises – All U.S. and Canadian citizens (including children) are required to have either a valid passport*, a U.S. passport card, a trusted traveler card (such as NEXUS, SENTRI or FAST) or an Enhanced Driver's License (which is available in several different states and provinces).

What money do you use on a cruise? ›

Onboard prices are in US dollars, with the exception of some Australian-based cruises where the onboard currency is in Australian dollars. Cunard – Transactions onboard the cruise ships are in US dollars, all of which are charged to your onboard account, which will be settled at the end of your holiday.

What are rules on a cruise? ›

For cruise guides, news and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter.
  • No smoking indoors or on balconies. ...
  • No underage drinking. ...
  • No sneaking drugs or alcohol on board. ...
  • You must attend the safety drill. ...
  • Report your symptoms on the health form. ...
  • Return by all-aboard time. ...
  • No guests in crew areas. ...
  • No diapered kids in the pools.
May 31, 2023

How many outfits should I pack for a 7 day cruise? ›

Here's what to pack for a 7-day cruise to the Caribbean

You should average two outfits per day, as you'll wear one during the day and one at night for dinner.

How many outfits to pack for a cruise? ›

Pack one outfit for every day, or plan to do laundry on your cruise ship. I like to look for ways to reuse pieces to save space. For example, I'll dress up a top with a skirt or dress pants for dinner, then wear the same shirt with jeans in port the following day.

How many bags do I need for a 7 day cruise? ›

To help you plan, we suggest you limit your luggage to a maximum of one bag per person if you're travelling on a cruise of 3-5 nights, and to no more than two bags per person, for cruises of 6 days or longer.

How much money should a person bring on a cruise? ›

And how much cash should you take on your next cruise? We're here to help you figure it out! Experts say the average cruise passenger spends anywhere from $52 to $89 per day, but the amount you'll spend will, of course, vary based on cruise line, ship, experience and your individual preferences.

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