What to Pack for Your Next Cruise: Essential Packing List and Tips

Congratulations on booking your cruise! As you prepare for your adventure on the high seas, the big question is: what should you pack? In this blog, I’ll share a comprehensive packing list filled with cruise essentials and Amazon must-haves. Plus, stick around for two bonus tips—one about what you should never pack and another packing tip for embarkation day!

Cruise Packing Essentials

Let’s dive right in with five essential items you’ll want to include in your cruise packing list:

1. Magnetic Hooks

If you’ve done any research on cruise essentials, you’ve likely heard about the wonder of magnetic hooks. These clever little devices are invaluable for keeping your cabin organised since most cruise cabins feature metal walls, ceilings, and doors beneath their decorative finishes.

As someone who values organisation – as my regular readers will know – I can’t recommend them enough. Just be sure to select strong hooks! For example, the magnetic hooks I use have a capacity of 110 pounds (approximately 50 kg). However, bear in mind that their weight-holding ability decreases when attached to walls compared to ceilings.

You can utilise these hooks in numerous ways—hang bags, caps, wet swimmers, and even backpacks. They also work well for drying clothes or hanging over the door organisers. Additionally, consider using them to manage electrical extension cords or even hang blackout curtains! The potential uses are nearly limitless.

I also suggest packing magnetic clips, which can be lifesavers for organising important documents such as the daily cruise schedule.

2. Your Cruise Card

Your cruise card is another vital item. It functions like a credit card: serving as your cabin key, identification, and your method of spending money or using your drinks package while onboard. It’s crucial to keep this item with you at all times!

Many cruise lines, such as Princess Cruises, have begun using medallions instead of traditional cards. However, for now, let’s focus on the classic cruise card. It fits conveniently in your pocket, but for those prone to misplacing it, a lanyard is a practical solution. You can easily find lanyards with clips or protective sleeves.

Because lanyards irritate my neck (autism = sensory issues), I prefer a magnetic iPhone card holder that also works as a phone stand. This dual-purpose item means I always have my phone handy while keeping my cruise card secure.

If you’re using a Princess medallion, there are various fun accessories available, including Air Tag holders that can help you keep track of your items. I use an Air Tag holder with a round carabiner, which I clip to my phone case – it has loops for a cross body strap, another travel essential!

3. Travel Medication Kit

Next up is the all-important travel medication kit. While taking over-the-counter medicines is a wise decision for any trip, it’s especially crucial on a cruise.

Two key reasons for this:

Shops onboard may not carry the medication you require, particularly if you have brand preferences.
If they do stock your meds, the prices can soar—the frustration of paying $20 at sea for something that costs $5 on land is all too real!

When packing, consider including the following items: painkillers, antihistamines, antacid tablets, seasickness medication, Band-Aids, anti-diarrhoea pills, extra prescription medications, blister patches, antiseptic spray, and even hydration sachets. I store my travel pharmacy in a folding jewellery organiser to keep things neat and easy to access while taking up minimal luggage space.

4. Dress Code Considerations

There’s often a misconception that formal attire is a must for cruise evenings. While some cruise lines maintain dress codes requiring tuxedos or evening gowns, this is not universal. Always check your cruise line’s website for specific dress codes as many casual venues still welcome guests in relaxed attire.

If dressing up is part of your cruise experience, ensure you pack a nice outfit that you feel great in. Personally, I prefer not to lug around an evening gown—I dress up a nice outfit with accessories and appropriate shoes. Dressy flats or wedge heels are my go-to shoes for added stability on the ship, particularly when the ocean gets choppy.

Depending on your cruise itinerary, there may be themed parties, such as “White Night” or “80s Night.” These events can often catch guests by surprise, so checking forums like Cruise Critic for insider information can be helpful.

5. Drinks Policy

A delightful surprise for many first-time cruisers is that several cruise lines permit guests to bring their own wine and soft drinks onboard! Typically, this involves a restriction of one bottle of wine per adult. Make sure to check the specific policy of your cruise line to avoid issues.

Always pack any drinks in your carry-on luggage since security will be inspecting all bags. Steer clear of trying to sneak spirits onboard; if caught, you risk confiscation and potential fines.

Bonus Tip #1: Items You Should Never Pack

Now for a critical piece of advice: one item you should absolutely avoid taking on a cruise is a power board with surge protection! These devices can interfere with a ship’s electrical systems and could potentially lead to fires in extreme cases. If you attempt to pack a surge-protected power board, it will likely be confiscated during security screening, and there’s a chance you won’t get it back.

Instead, look for power adapters that allow multiple devices to plug in; these are typically permitted on board. Always double-check your cruise line’s list of prohibited items, as you may be surprised by what else might be included!

Breaking news September 2024: Royal Caribbean have just banned multi-socket adapters. Having multiple USB A or C ports appears to be fine but not having multiple electrical sockets.

Bonus Tip #2: Strategic Packing for Embarkation Day

As for the second bonus tip, let’s discuss embarkation day packing. Just like when flying, you’ll have options for checking in luggage that will be taken to your cabin for you. However, if you choose to check your bags, ensure that you don’t pack anything you may need during the first few hours onboard the ship.

Happy young woman with travel theme on blue background

Often, you won’t see your luggage until after dinner, and there might be times when you don’t have immediate access to your cabin upon boarding. Therefore, pack your carry-on strategically to make the most of this important day.

Include essential items such as your passport, any vital medications, and documentation for cruise and travel insurance (I keep mine stored electronically on my phone). Don’t forget to carry valuables like jewellery, your tablet, laptop, mobile phone, and wallet!

If you’re embarking on a cruise to a warm destination, sunscreen and sunglasses are essential. You might also want to have your swimsuit and a cover-up handy to jump straight into the pool upon boarding. It can be quite refreshing! Additionally, consider packing a change of clothes for added convenience.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’ve found this guide on what to pack for your cruise helpful! With these essentials and handy tips, you’re one step closer to a smooth and enjoyable cruising experience. If you’re eager to embark on your journey, don’t forget to check out my other articles on cruising, as well as our other travel content!

I’d love to hear your favourite cruise packing tips in the comments below, and please consider subscribing for more exciting travel insights! Together, we can help you plan unforgettable getaways, whether on land or at sea. Until next time, happy sailing!