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I Used to Work on a Cruise Ship, and These Are the 13 Things You Should Never Leave Port Without

A former crew member reveals the most important packing essentials.

Kelsey’s writing has appeared in outlets like Condé Nast Traveler, TripSavvy, Edible Magazine, and TimeOut. Some of the most standout experiences in her travels include living in Tokyo, abseiling in Vanuatu, surfing in Costa Rica, and cycling through the Pyrenees mountains.

Travel + Leisure

My first career as a cruise ship entertainer had me sailing all over the world, living and working aboard these large floating resorts for six to eight months at a time. After years of roaming the world’s ports and experiencing every ship and shoreside scenario that you could imagine, I became adept at packing a single suitcase to ensure a comfortable life at sea. 

Although living on a ship long-term is different from taking a 10-day cruise, crew and guest cruise packing lists are similar — emphasizing items that make sailing more comfortable and easy. Whether you’re embarking on a world cruise or just escaping to the Caribbean for a quick trip, these essential travel accessories are what my fellow seafarers and I would suggest bringing to make life on the water all the more comfortable. From versatile travel bags to helpful gadgets and genius seasick remedies , here’s what to pack for a cruise like a pro. 

Travel Voltage Converter

Most ship staterooms are outfitted with a three-prong 110-volt (North America-grounded) and a 220-volt (Europe) outlet. It’s always a good idea to carry an international adaptor and surge protector to safeguard your devices from electric irregularities. What's more, smaller interior cabins may have only two outlets, which could pose a problem if you and your guest have multiple devices to charge at the same time. Useful for more than just onboard, an internal adaptor is also handy for cruise itineraries that drop you off in multiple countries. Keep this adaptor in your day bag so you can plug it in ashore if your tech needs a charge.

Liquid I.V. Packets 

Cruises are vacations, a time to enjoy yourself and indulge. But it’s all too easy to go a tad overboard (ship pun intended) on alcoholic beverages, savory foods, and sunbathing. If you think a hangover is bad, just wait until you have one on a rocky ship at sea. To avoid losing a precious day of your cruise, bring along Liquid I.V. powder, an electrolyte mix that delivers hydration to the bloodstream faster than just water alone. Each bag comes with 16, travel-friendly powder packets and you have your choice between 17 flavors. 

Portable First Aid Kit 

Visits to the ship’s medical center can be pricey. Avoid this unexpected expense if you can by bringing  your own first aid kit. Start by packing your essential prescription medications. Then,  add bandages and antibiotic ointment for attending to small surface wounds. Bring pain relief medication and cold medicine, just in case. Don’t forget antacids and over-the-counter medicines to ease digestion. Sunscreen and aloe vera gel are must-haves  so you don’t spend your whole cruise hiding from the sun. Bug repellent and after-bite lotion will also ease your sleep if you’ve run into sand fleas at the beach. If you have any allergies, make sure that you have an EpiPen or your chosen allergy medication. 

Portable Charger

When I lived on a ship, I would be one of the first ashore and the last back onboard. Exploring new locales is one of the best parts of cruising. If you like to head ashore for the whole day, you’ll want to keep your phone charged so you can navigate your way back to the ship, call for help in case of an emergency, and snap pictures and videos of your destination. Carry a powerful battery bank with you like the Anker Portable Charger so your phone doesn’t die and you’re prepared for long adventures, or fun overnights, in ports of call.

Waterproof Phone Pouch

You’re never far from water on a cruise ship, which means that you’ll want to protect your tech with waterproof gear. Great for island cruise itineraries, this phone bag is watertight and retains touchscreen operations through its polyvinyl shell. It comes with a detachable lanyard should you want to take it into the waves and capture underwater adventures. Even if you’re not going in the water, this pouch will protect your phone from snow and rain, too. Beach-bound cruisers will also find it useful for keeping their phone sand- and salt-free too. 

Collapsible Umbrella

Weather on a cruise can be tough to predict, particularly for various ports of call. Even if the forecast is fair, weather can change in an instant, particularly if you’re cruising near shoulder seasons. You’ll be grateful to come prepared with an umbrella so you aren’t forced to buy the marked-up ones in port or onboard. Even if there’s no sign of rain, a good umbrella doubles as a sun protectant for harsh midday sun.

Formal Evening Attire 

Almost every cruise has a formal night where guests are encouraged to dress in elegant wear. This event usually occurs on a sea day at the beginning of your itinerary. Formal nights are fun and evoke the old-world, slow-travel glamor of cruising. Even the officers dress up and don their formal ship whites. When everyone onboard participates in the formal night dress code,  it makes the event all the more special and luxurious, so remember to bring a few upscale resort looks onboard. This stunning Tadashi Shoji Off-Shoulder A-Line Crepe and Taffeta Gown will do the trick, but if you’re shopping on a budget, there are plenty of swanky cocktail dress options at Amazon; start your search with the Anrabess Pleated Maxi Dress or PrettyGarden One-Shoulder Slit Maxi Dress — starting at $50. 

Sand-Free Beach Towel

Most cruise guests bring the ship’s pool towels shoreside for lounging. But, the terry cloth towels cling to the sand, bringing it back in your bag to be dumped on your stateroom floor. If you want a tidier beach trip, bring along a sand-free beach blanket like this Turkish beach towel. It's made with cotton and folds up slim so it won’t take up too much space in your suitcase. What's more, it dries quickly to prevent your bag and its contents from getting soggy. 

Packing Cubes

When I reached out to a crew member friend to discuss packing tips, his first thought was emphatically packing cubes. Organization is key to enjoying your cruise, particularly on the day that you embark as it’s the most hectic day for all staff onboard. By the time that you’re able to check into your room, it’s almost time to sail away, and you’ll probably want to be on deck with a daiquiri and sweet treat in hand, not organizing your wardrobe — which is why I recommend traveling with packing cubes. They're not only great for condensing your suitcase contents but also keeping them organized and easy-to-spot, so you can spend less time searching for the things you need and make unpacking and getting ready a breeze. 

Collapsible Duffel Bag

One of the perks of cruise ship travel is that, unlike airlines,  most cruise lines don’t have strict luggage policies. For travelers who like to shop or collect souvenirs, this is a huge perk. On itineraries with excellent shopping, cruising can be a great way to source neat gifts. Onboard shopping is also a fun way to pick up items to remember your trip. If you’re worried that you won’t have room in your case for your purchases, bring a collapsible duffel bag like this handy 40-liter version from REI for your treasures. Amazon reviewers also love the Gonex Foldable Travel Duffle Bag and the Vomgomfom Travel Duffle Bag for the same reason. 

Reusable Collapsible Bag

If you’re cruising around islands, you can make this collapsible tote bag your designated beach bag. Its nylon fabric makes it easy to brush off sand and it dries quickly should you need to wash it (or accidentally get it wet while you're at the beach). If you’re cruising around Europe, you’ll quickly learn that single-use plastic bags are often banned. Many markets, shops, and stores expect everyone to come with their own bag to take away their products. This reusable bag folds to a pocket-size when you’re not using it, so you can keep it in your purse or backpack until you need it. 

If you’re a light sleeper, the noises of a ship may come as a shock. Whether it’s the sounds of the anchor dropping at 5 a.m. or your raucous neighbors enjoying late-night revelry, earplugs will help you get restful sleep at sea — no matter the time of day. Make sure you pick up this on-sale pack of 60 at Amazon; they're made with soft foam for a comfortable and adjustable fit and deliver impressive noise-canceling capabilities. 

Non-Drowsy Seasick Patches 

If your itinerary is taking you through rough waters, like the Drake Passage or the Tasmanian Sea, be prepared with remedies to fight motion sickness. More than 11,500 reviewers swear by these seasick patches that use a holistic herbal blend to fight nausea. The onboard medical center offers Dramamine to seasick guests, which will make you sleepy and groggy. If you want to stay alert while fighting the nausea, these non-drowsy patches are the way to go. A few crew tips for fighting sea stomach: stay on the upper levels of the ship, munch on green apples, and keep your eyes on the horizon. 

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Cruise packing list: 56 essentials chosen by experts.

This cruise packing list includes all of the essentials – plus items you didn't know you needed.

Essentials to Pack for a Cruise

Packing for any trip takes some planning, but cruise vacations present a unique challenge – particularly due to limited stateroom storage space and sparse (or overpriced) options for purchasing accidentally forgotten items.

To help you decide what to pack for a cruise, we've curated a list of essentials recommended by cruise experts who regularly sail the high seas. Download the U.S. News Cruise Packing List pictured above to reference while you pack, and read on to learn more about the recommended items and where you can purchase them if needed.

• For packing and planning
• For travel and embarkation day
• For the cabin
• For the ship and shore excursions

Find your perfect cruise

Carry-on bag

Regardless of whether you bring checked luggage, you'll need some type of carry-on bag . Since checked bags need to go through security as they do at airports – and because you may need to wait for your stateroom to be ready, just like at a hotel – you'll want to be able to access any necessities pre-cruise. These might include a swimsuit, sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat for the pools; medications; a bottle of water; and your smartphone, of course. You'll also want to keep your credit card , passport, and any other important documentation or valuables close by. A carry-on backpack works especially well since it can double as a day bag for shore excursions.

Checked bag

While you'll likely want to bring a checked bag, consider sharing one with your shipmate(s) to maximize stateroom storage space. Or, consider bringing medium-sized luggage, such as the The Medium by Away , for checking in.

Garment bag

Courtesy of Halfday

While many cruises are less formal these days, a garment bag can still be handy for keeping select garments wrinkle-free (since clothing irons are prohibited on cruise ships). Top-rated options include the The Garment Duffel by Halfday and the Briggs and Riley Baseline 22" Carry-On 2-Wheel Garment Bag , both of which double as traditional luggage. If you pack your luggage right, you can make this your only suitcase, in addition to a carry-on bag.

Packing cubes or vacuum-sealed bags

Packing cubes are one of the best ways to organize your belongings for travel – especially in a tight cruise ship cabin. Top-rated options include the Veken packing cubes on Amazon (usually priced around $20) and all of the Pack-It Sets by Eagle Creek. The Pack-It Starter Set is especially ideal for cruising since it includes a garment folder designed to minimize wrinkles in clothing. Some cruisers also swear by vacuum-sealed bags , even though they can be a bit more tedious to pack.

Carry-on caddy

Ashley Kosciolek, senior cruise writer at The Points Guy, recommends a carry-on caddy , particularly if you're flying to your embarkation point. "I have a fabric sleeve that slides down over the telescoping handle on my carry-on to provide pockets for my passport, phone, coffee – all the things I used to have to juggle during check-in."

Digital luggage scale

The compact Etekcity scale – approximately $10 on Amazon – can weigh bags up to 110 pounds and help you avoid overweight baggage fees. You can often find these scales at your local Marshalls and HomeGoods stores too.

Bungee cord

"Especially for travelling with the family, I use a bright-green bungee cord to strap multiple pieces of luggage together," says Aaron Saunders, senior editor at Cruise Critic. "It's a lifesaver when boarding trains or disembarking ships, particularly when you ' re maneuvering a stroller and a little one around, too."

Luggage tracker

Courtesy of Apple

A luggage tracker isn't just useful for air travel. Attach one to your checked cruise luggage to see when it has arrived in your stateroom (or if it's stalled at security). Chris Gray Faust, executive editor at Cruise Critic, doesn't go anywhere without her Apple AirTag after her luggage got stuck in Vancouver for over a week last June. "My AirTag use has expanded beyond my checked luggage, too. I also have AirTags in my handbag, my carry-on, my keychain and my wallet."

Cruise insurance

Due to the unpredictable nature of travel, cruise insurance can be a wise purchase ahead of your voyage. Travel policies can cover unforeseen expenses such as trip interruptions and medical emergencies.

While a passport is often required for cruising, rules can vary depending where you're traveling. Determine whether you need a passport for your upcoming cruise ; if you do, triple-check that you have it packed the day of departure.

Credit cards and local currency

When cruising internationally, consider getting small amounts of each country's currency to have on hand in port. Depending where you go, some local markets may only accept their own country's currency, not U.S. dollars or credit cards. It's also nice to leave cash gratuities for cab drivers, tour guides or servers; in the European Union, 1- and 2-euro coins are convenient and appropriate tips. In ports with vendors that do accept credit cards, be sure to carry a Visa or Mastercard , as some shops and restaurants do not take American Express .

RFID wallet

It's important to protect your travel documents with an RFID wallet like the TIGARI Passport Holder or the ZOPPEN RFID Travel Passport Wallet , the latter of which can hold multiple passports for a family. "Thieves and hackers can steal your credit card information just by using skimming devices," explains Jill Schildhouse, a cruise expert and U.S. News contributor who always travels with her RFID wallet. "And because your wallet wasn't even touched, you won't know it happened until you see your credit card statement."

Medications

Pack more than enough of your prescription medications as well as any over-the-counter medicines you'll need, just in case you encounter an itinerary change or travel delay. While some travelers find it easiest to bring personal medicines in their prescription bottles, others find travel pill boxes to be especially helpful for organization. The Sukuos Weekly Pill Organizer is a well-rated option, with detachable boxes for each day as well as compartments for morning and evening medications.

Sheet masks

Since flying can be so drying for the skin, Faust likes to use sheet masks. "My first step the night before I board (because you should always fly in a day early) is to hydrate with a sheet mask (usually from a Korean brand like Ballon Blanc or FaceTory )," she says. "If I'm meeting up with a friend, I bring an extra sheet mask so our trip starts out feeling a bit like a spa day!"

Magnetic hooks

A surprising fact: Cruise ship cabin walls are made of metal, which means you can optimize your storage space by hanging some of your belongings on magnetic wall hooks. The hooks are perfect for holding bulky coats or boots if you're traveling to a colder climate. You can also use them for wet gear on expedition ships and adventure cruises, or for drying out bathing suits after days at the beach or pool. Purchase a set of magnetic hooks for less than $10 on Amazon.

Like hotels, cruise ships can only provide so many hangers. Bring a few extras from home or pick up a pack from your local dollar store. You might also try packable hangers .

Wrinkle release spray

Whether or not you bring a garment bag, a travel-size bottle of wrinkle release spray, such as Downy Wrinkle Releaser spray , is useful to have on board. If you combine a spritz or two with the steam from your shower, you should be able to smooth out some of the wrinkles in your clothing.

Laundry detergent

"If you don't want to pay for laundry service or spend precious time in the self-service laundry room, bring a small bottle of laundry detergent like Woolite to wash key items in the sink: underwear, bras, quick-dry hiking shorts, bathing suits, etc.," recommends Schildhouse. "Every cruise ship shower has a retractable clothesline you can extend to drape the clothes over while they dry. This can also help cut down on the number of items you need to pack."

Over-the-door organizers

Over-the-door organizers with clear or mesh pockets allow you to find your feminine hygiene products, makeup, jewelry and other small items quickly – without having to hunt through multiple drawers or a tight stateroom closet. It's a good idea to purchase a two-pack like this option by Simple Houseware Store (available on Amazon), since you can also use one to store shoes and maximize floor space.

Courtesy of Poo-Pourri

It goes without saying, but to say it anyway: A toilet spray like Poo-Pourri is a must for your cruise packing list. Any smell – pleasant or not – will travel quickly in small staterooms with small bathrooms. Buy a travel-size bottle to keep in your cabin.

Shampoo and conditioner

Cruise experts agree it's best to bring your own shampoo and conditioner in travel-size bottles, as most cruise ships don't provide separate shampoo and conditioner anymore; instead, they offer all-in-one dispensers. Colleen McDaniel, editor-in-chief at Cruise Critic, likes to pack her shampoo and conditioner in the popular Cadence Capsules , noting she also uses them for another essential: sunscreen. "These capsules are easy to fill, never leak and have clear labels, which you can customize," she says.

Wine or Champagne

Most major cruise lines allow each guest to bring one to two bottles of wine or Champagne on board, while some luxury cruise lines allow even more than that. Disney Cruise Line also gives guests the option to bring a six-pack of beer instead of wine or Champagne. Be sure to consult your cruise line's policies when packing for your trip.

If you plan to bring wine or Champagne, you'll likely need a corkscrew . While some cruise lines may prohibit corkscrews, others allow them on board; check your cruise line's policy before sailing. Bringing wine with a twistable cap may be a good alternative.

Portable humidifier

Cruise ship cabins can feel dry – especially in the colder months. A portable humidifier like the GENIANI Erie (around $25 on Amazon) can provide some relief. At about half a pound, this USB-powered device will fit neatly into your checked bag or carry-on luggage. The travel humidifier features two mist settings and has an automatic shut-off option, plus a night light to help you see around your cabin in the dark.

International travel adapter or converter

You'll likely need a travel adapter, since cruise lines homeported in international locales may have different electrical sockets and voltage strengths than you're used to in the U.S.

McDaniel recommends the OneWorld65 Travel Adapter . "I've used a lot of different travel adapters over the years, but this is my favorite. It charges up to six devices at once, has USB and mini-USB options, and works in over 200 countries," she says. "While many cruise ships have U.S. outlets, most usually also have European outlets. This adapter lets me take advantage of that outlet I'd otherwise ignore." She also notes that while cruise lines are getting better about having more outlets on their ships, it never feels like enough to keep your phone, camera battery, tablet, watch, headphones/earbuds and laptop charged (times two or more if you're traveling with others).

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Sound machine

Cruise experts agree a sound machine can be helpful for blocking out the sound of late-night partiers returning to their staterooms (or your snoring spouse). Schildhouse likes the LectroFan Micro 2 for cruising. "It plays non-looping white noise and doubles as a speaker to play tunes while you get ready for dinner."

Tech organizer

Courtesy of Bagsmart

A tech organizer like the BAGSMART electronics organizer case – available on Amazon for about $20 – can store all your cables, plugs, SD cards and earphones in one zippered, compact bag that will fit easily in your carry-on luggage. Despite its small size, it can also hold bulkier items like a small laptop charging cord.

First-aid kit

A first-aid kit is a good thing to have on hand no matter where you go. You can make your own using supplies you already have at home, or buy a premade first-aid kit on Amazon for about $20. While all cruise ships have medical facilities, it's useful to have these items with you on shore excursions, especially those involving active adventures.

Hand sanitizer

Regularly washing your hands and/or using hand sanitizer is essential to staying healthy while traveling, especially on a cruise ship. Stock up on a few travel-size bottles of hand sanitizer (less than $2 each at Walmart) ahead of your trip. If you're looking for something with less alcohol that's also less drying, check out Babyganics Alcohol-Free Foaming Hand Sanitizer .

If you're a parent, you know that your infant or toddler needs a very specific size – and in some cases brand – of diapers, which may very well be unavailable to you on your cruise ship or in the ports of call. Bring more than enough diapers to play it safe at sea.

Most cruise lines also require that non-toilet-trained infants and toddlers wear swim diapers in the children's water play areas. For the sake of sanitation, kids must be toilet-trained to use the pools on cruise ships.

Many cruisers like to personalize their cabin with stateroom door decor. Not only is it a fun tradition, but decorating the door can make it easier to locate your room, too. You can find lots of fun decor ideas on Pinterest as well as Amazon.

" Duct tape is a life-saver in many situations," says Kosciolek. "I primarily use it to attach my printed luggage tags, but it's also great for mending clothing issues on the fly and fixing broken luggage until you can get it back home."

"As a parent, I like to bring lanyards with sleeves so my kids can wear their keycards and not lose them," says Erica Silverstein, senior cruise editor at The Points Guy. "We hang them on the magnetic hooks I put on the wall, so they don't get lost in the cabin either."

Courtesy of Sea-Band

If you're prone to (or think you may be prone to) motion sickness on cruise ships, put a pair of Sea-Bands on your cruise packing list. These soft wristbands use acupressure to prevent and minimize nausea and vomiting on board, and they are a reusable, drug-free alternative to traditional anti-nausea medications. You can purchase Sea-Bands on Amazon or at most drugstores.

If you need something a bit stronger than Sea-Bands (or to use in conjunction with them), Dramamine remains a tried-and-true solution for both preventing and treating sea sickness. Choose the Less Drowsy formula to avoid getting sleepy, and consider the chewable tablets (dye-free) if traveling with kids who are prone to queasiness. Many travelers like Bonine as a remedy for sea sickness as well.

Mix-and-match clothing

Pack a variety of mix-and-match items, also known as a capsule wardrobe, for your cruise. To do this, choose a base color – black or navy blue – for your wardrobe. Next, pack plain, neutral-colored items, then add a few patterned items to the mix. Remember to include a variety of styles (T-shirts, long-sleeved shirts, pants, shorts, dresses, rompers and jumpsuits) and also consider reversible clothing and outfits that can easily transition from day to night.

Sports jacket or blazer

Adam Coulter, executive editor of Cruise Critic UK and Australia, recommends packing a sports jacket or blazer. "While cruise lines are getting more casual, what happens if you get that last-minute invite to meet the captain, or there's a meet and mingle where you want to look put together? A jacket will always elevate your elegance (even if you're wearing a T-shirt underneath)," he says. If you're in need of a travel blazer, Bluffworks has some well-rated options; the Gramercy , in particular, gets great reviews.

Themed party attire

Some cruise lines host themed voyages or parties on select nights where passengers can dress up to participate in the fun. You'll want to review your cruise itinerary before you go so you're prepared for the festivities. Bring your buccaneer gear if you're sailing aboard Disney Cruise Line; ships host fun events like Pirate Nights, pirate-themed dinners and a "Pirates in the Caribbean" show. On "The Love Boat"-themed cruises offered by Princess Cruises , pack your platform boots, glittery dresses, bell-bottom pants and halter tops for the line's 1970s-inspired disco party on the deck. No matter the theme, you can't go wrong with a couple of cruise captain hats .

Travel wrap

A travel wrap is a versatile accessory that's useful for any trip – even more so on a cruise ship where it can get chilly when the sea breeze picks up. Available in nearly 10 different colors, J.Crew's Oversized Cashmere Wrap is a timeless staple, albeit a bit of an investment; for something less expensive but well rated, try this off-brand pashmina shawl on Amazon .

Packable jacket

Courtesy of Patagonia

If you're cruising to a cold weather destination such as Alaska, you'll need something heavier than a travel wrap, but not so bulky that it requires additional luggage. Consider a packable jacket that folds easily and compactly; travel experts highly recommend the Patagonia Nano Puff Jacket .

Packable hat

If you're headed to the Caribbean or another warm weather destination, you'll want a beach hat to protect your scalp and face from the sun. This packable straw hat by FURTALK (available on Amazon for about $25) is a stylish women's option that features a broader brim and offers UPF 50 sun protection.

Comfortable walking shoes

Courtesy of Allbirds

Even if you never step foot off the ship, there is still plenty of walking to do between bow and stern. Closed-toe shoes or sandals with straps are safer than flimsy flip-flops when boarding a slippery tender into port (if your ship can't dock directly). Check out our recommendations for the most comfortable walking shoes , which include the popular Allbirds Wool Runners and the ECCO Yucatan Sandals .

Water shoes

Depending on your scheduled shore excursions, you might also need a pair of water shoes. For something that's both functional and fashionable, Crocs' Classic Clogs are a good option. While not totally waterproof, the Native Jefferson is a water-friendly, versatile option.

Versatile heels

"Over the years, I've learned that the key to avoiding overpacking is to bring one neutral pair of low heels that match every single eveningwear outfit I've packed – from flowy pants to dresses," says Schildhouse. The Naturalizer Bristol Sandal is an ideal choice, with a cushioned footbed, a 2.5-inch heel, and great reviews. It's also available in a variety of colors.

Reusable water bottle

A reusable water bottle is useful for filling up at water and beverage stations on your cruise ship; it's also a necessity for shore excursions.

Bathing suit

Pack a couple of swimsuits for the pools, hot tubs and any shore excursions.

Swim cover-up

Another must-have for your cruise packing list is a swimsuit cover-up or two. These are great for wearing over your bathing suit during days at sea, as well as on excursions – especially if you're going on a Caribbean cruise . Amazon sells a variety of stylish, affordable cover-ups, and you can never go wrong with a classic white button-down shirt .

Dry bags are useful for shore excursions where you're likely to get wet but don't want the same to be true for your phone, camera and other precious items. "I use the Outdoor Research Unisex Dry Isolation Pack   and have never had so much as a drop of moisture enter it, which is important for me – it keeps my cameras, documents and important items from getting wet," says Saunders, adding that it functions as a great everyday backpack when it's not raining.

If you need more than one dry bag, cruise expert Brittany Chrusciel recommends the Sea to Summit Lightweight Dry Bag Set . "Having these dry bags, in a variety of sizes, means I can bring all my gear along during a Zodiac cruise or snorkeling excursion without having to worry about it getting wet."

Waterproof phone case

A waterproof phone case is also essential, especially if you plan to take photos. The Hiearcool Waterproof Phone Pouches (available in a two-pack) come with a lanyard so you can both protect your phone and wear it around your neck. They are compatible with most smartphones.

"I like to bring collapsible pails, small shovels , inflatable beach toys, a floppy Frisbee or other things to entertain the kids on the beach if we're going to a private island or beach destination," says Silverstein. "If you can inflate your own inner tube, you don't need to rent a floating mat."

Beach towel

"Although cruise lines provide guests with towels to take off the ship on excursions, they are often bulky and sometimes small," explains Chrusciel. "The Surfer Towel folds up to nearly nothing, so it takes up almost no room in your suitcase and is super convenient to pack in a day bag. What's more, its quick-drying technology means that the lightweight fabric won't be soaking wet when you need to pack up for the day and head back to the ship."

Towel clips

"Even though giant plastic towel clips shaped like a flamingo are a bit cringey, they make it easy to find your spot in a sea of sun loungers," says Chrusciel. "They also solve a common cruise problem: keeping your towel securely fixed to your chair while reading or sunbathing."

Reef-safe sunscreen

Courtesy of Badger

When choosing a sunscreen, look for something that's reef-safe; not only are these sunscreens safer for the environment, but they're also better for you . The active ingredients in reef-safe sunscreens, also known as mineral sunscreens, are zinc oxide, titanium dioxide or a combination of both. Top-rated mineral sunscreen brands include Think , Badger and Raw Elements , all of which also sell lip balm with sunscreen (another essential at sea).

After-sun lotion

You'll want an extra dose of moisturizer if you've been basking in the sun. COOLA makes an after-sun body lotion that cools and hydrates the skin with aloe vera, agave and lavender oil. Previous buyers rave about this lotion, noting they appreciate that the scent isn't overpowering.

A good book

Sea days are the perfect time to kick back and relax with a book you've been meaning to read. Find an oceanfront lounge chair in a shaded area on the pool deck, or grab a cup of tea and settle into a quiet nook indoors. There's no need to pack more than one book, however, as many cruise ships have libraries.

What not to pack for a cruise

Power strip.

Many cruise lines do not permit power strips as they present a fire hazard, while others allow them as long as they are non-surge-protected. Instead of a power strip, purchase a portable charger such as this highly rated one by Anker , which can power up multiple devices at once. This can be especially useful for shore excursions. When packing for your cruise, also think about your luggage: If it has an included charging port, you may not even need to purchase an additional charging block.

Weapons and restraints

Firearms, handcuffs and the like are not permitted on cruise ships. This rule also includes toy guns on most cruise lines.

While most major cruise lines allow guests to pack a limited amount of wine or Champagne per person, they do not permit hard liquor. Of course, those of age can purchase cocktails at any of the bars on board.

Household appliances

Irons and steamers are not permitted on cruise ships, which is why the aforementioned garment bags, wrinkle release spray and packing cubes are recommended for keeping clothing tidy and neat. Coffee makers and mug warmers are also prohibited.

While you can technically bring you own, it's not necessary as hairdryers are available in every bathroom on most ships.

CBD and marijuana

CBD that's derived from hemp and contains 0.3% THC or less is legal at a federal level. However, each state interprets and enforces this law differently; for example, many states require a prescription for it. Due to the ambiguity of the laws, most cruise lines continue to ban CBD in any form.

Marijuana remains illegal under U.S. federal law, which means you cannot bring it on a cruise ship – even if you're legally able to purchase it in your home state for recreational or medical use.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

For the U.S. News Cruise Packing List, travel writers Gwen Pratesi and Amanda Norcross tapped leading industry experts for their cruise essentials. They regularly update this checklist with new and useful items to pack.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Cruise Lines
• The Best Adults-Only Cruises
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100+ Cruise Essentials Every Cruiser Needs to Pack

Are you ready to set sail on a cruise ship for the vacation of a lifetime? Whether you’re embarking on a Caribbean cruise or exploring the majestic waters on an Alaskan cruise , there are some cruise essentials you simply can’t leave home without.

So grab our free cruise planner  equipped with handy packing lists and buckle up! We are going to dive into the top cruise essentials you are not going to want to forget. 🚢✨

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you. Please read full disclosure  here .

Travel Essentials

• Passport, visa, and necessary travel documents : Remember, some ports might require a visa even if you’re just passing through for the day.
• Printed cruise itinerary and boarding passes: Digital is great, but having a hard copy is a fail-safe, especially if technology decides to be… well, technology.
• Wallet with necessary cash and cards: It’s smart to carry a mix of currency, especially if you’re stopping in multiple countries. And don’t forget to let your bank know about your travel plans!
• Travel insurance documents: Fingers crossed you’ll never need them, but it’s better to be safe than sorry.
• Portable phone charger: There’s nothing worse than spotting the perfect sunset photo op, only for your phone to die. Keep a portable charger handy, and you’ll never miss a shot.
• Neck pillow for flights: Because arriving with a crick in your neck is not the way to start your vacation. Trust me.
• Noise-cancelling headphones: Whether it’s a chatty neighbor or the hum of the plane, drown it all out and drift into your own world.
• Snacks for the journey: A hangry traveler is not a happy traveler. Tuck away some of your favorite nibbles for those long journeys or unexpected delays.
• Empty water bottle to refill post-security check: Staying hydrated is a travel commandment. Bring an empty bottle, and fill it up once you’re past security. It’s eco-friendly and wallet-friendly.
• Travel-sized hand sanitizers: Let’s keep those germs at bay, shall we?

With your cruise essential travel items packed, you’re already on the right track. But hold tight, we’ve got quite a bit more to go over as some of the top tips and tricks for cruises ! Ready to delve into the world of cruise fashion next? Let’s make sure you’re looking snazzy, comfy, and prepared for all the onboard activities and offboard explorations. Stay tuned!

Hello, fashion-forward voyager! 🌊⚓ Navigating cruise attire can be a bit tricky, right? From the informal vibes of the pool deck to the elegance of the captain’s dinner, your wardrobe will need to multitask as much as you do. Let’s dive into your cruise clothing checklist to ensure you’re always dressed to impress, yet comfortably.

• Casual daytime outfits: Think breathable fabrics, comfy tees, shorts, and skirts. These are perfect for roaming the ship or doing some leisurely shore exploration.
• Evening attire (for fancier dining nights): Some cruise nights call for a little extra glam. Pack a cocktail dress, a jumpsuit, or a smart shirt and slacks, whatever makes you feel fabulous.
• Swimwear: Ah, the heart of every cruise wardrobe! From pools to beaches, you’ll want a couple of swimsuits. Consider a sportier one for water activities and another for lounging in style.
• Cover-ups: Perfect for moving from the pool to the bar without missing a beat. Sarongs, kaftans, or a light sundress do the trick.
• Comfortable walking shoes: Whether you’re sightseeing or wandering the ship, a good pair of sneakers or walking sandals is crucial.
• Formal shoes: For those elegant nights where flip-flops won’t cut it. Ladies, a versatile pair of heels, and gents, some dapper dress shoes will have you dancing the night away.
• Sandals or flip flops: For beach days, pool days, or any warm weather days, really.
• Workout clothes: If you’re planning on hitting the onboard gym or doing sunrise yoga on the deck, pack some sweat-wicking attire.
• Light jacket or cardigan: Sometimes, the breeze on the deck can get chilly or those indoor ACs can be icy.
• Rain poncho or umbrella: Mother Nature can be unpredictable. Stay dry during those unexpected drizzles.
• Hat and sunglasses: Protect yourself from those stronger sea sun rays. Plus, they’re the perfect cruise accessories to any beachy outfit.
• Sleepwear: Whether you’re a pajamas person or a nightgown nomad, make sure it’s comfy.

Remember, the key is versatility. Each piece should be able to work in multiple outfits, making your suitcase more efficient and your dressing decisions easier. Up next, we dive into the toiletries to keep you feeling fresh, pampered, and protected. Because while the sea might be salty, your skincare routine shouldn’t have to suffer!

Alright, let’s talk personal care, my fresh-faced explorers! 🌺🚢 Though the endless ocean breeze is undoubtedly refreshing, you’ll still need your trusty toiletries to keep you feeling revitalized. While cruise ships usually offer basic amenities, there’s nothing like having your favorites with you. Here’s a checklist to ensure you’re ready from head to toe.

• Travel-sized shampoo, conditioner, and body wash: Remember the size restrictions, especially if you’re flying to your cruise departure point.
• Toothbrush, toothpaste, and dental floss: Because no one should sacrifice oral hygiene, even in the middle of the ocean.
• Deodorant: With all the fun activities you’ll be doing, this is a no-brainer. Opt for your favorite, tried-and-true brand.
• Sunscreen: An absolute must. The sun is much stronger at sea, and nothing ruins a vacation faster than a painful sunburn.
• Moisturizer and face wash: Salt air can be drying, so keep your skin hydrated and refreshed.
• Razor and shaving cream: For those who prefer smooth sailing in more ways than one.
• Hairbrush or comb and hair ties: Tame those luscious locks, especially on windy deck days.
• Makeup and makeup remover: For those glam nights or just when you’re feeling a little extra fabulous.
• Lip balm with SPF: Protect those smackers from the harsh sun and keep them kissably soft.
• Nail clippers and tweezers: For the unexpected hangnail or stray brow. It’s the little things!
• Prescription medications: Keep them in their original bottles to avoid any potential hassle during travel checks.
• Basic first-aid kit: Band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and the like can come in handy.
• Feminine hygiene products: Because Mother Nature doesn’t care if you’re on vacation.

Now, while this may seem like a hefty list, remember, many of these items can be bought in mini, travel-friendly sizes. To save space and potential mess, consider using leak-proof travel containers or even sampling some solid toiletries like shampoos or conditioners. Oh, and a quick tip: a hanging toiletry organizer can be a game-changer in those cruise cabin bathrooms!

Up next, we’re covering those items that’ll turn your cabin into a cozy retreat and make your sea days an absolute dream. Buckle up, or should I say, anchor down? 😉

Onboard Comfort

Alright, seasoned sea-lovers and newbie nautical adventurers! 🌊💤 After a day packed with excursions, onboard activities, and indulgent dinners, there’s nothing quite like returning to a cozy, comfortable cabin. From your early morning coffee on the balcony to a peaceful afternoon nap, let’s ensure your sea days are as snug as they are exciting.

• Reading material (books, e-readers): There’s something truly serene about reading with the backdrop of the endless ocean. Whether it’s the latest thriller, a juicy romance, or a calming self-help book, ensure you’ve got something that floats your boat.
• Earplugs and sleep mask: Between the soft hum of the ship and the possibility of lively neighbors, these can be a lifesaver for light sleepers.
• Journal or notepad: Documenting your adventures, scribbling down the day’s highlights, or even sketching the horizon can become cherished memories later.
• Playing cards or portable board games: Perfect for a laid-back evening with the family or making friends with fellow cruisers.
• Music playlist and headphones: From calming tunes for your morning meditation to a lively beat for your workout, music can set the tone for any mood.
• Puzzle books (crosswords, sudoku, etc.): Great for a mental workout on a lazy day. Plus, they’re perfect for poolside relaxation without the need for electronics.
• Snorkeling gear (if not renting): For those destinations with mesmerizing underwater worlds. Having your own ensures they fit perfectly and are always ready for an impromptu dive.
• Small backpack for shore excursions: Keeping your essentials together when you’re exploring ports. It’s easier to carry, and you’ll have both hands free for photos and shopping.

Here’s the thing: cruising isn’t just about the destinations or the onboard activities—it’s also about the downtime, the hours spent simply soaking in the rhythm of the waves and the vastness of the horizon. These comfort items are there to enhance those moments, giving you both relaxation and recreation options.

Next, we’re teching things up! Dive into the world of gadgets that’ll keep you connected, entertained, and capturing memories like a pro. Get ready to amplify your cruise experience with some electronic magic. ⚡📸

Tech Gear & Gadgets

Hey there, tech aficionados! 🌐📸 Whether you’re an Instagram maven, an e-book enthusiast, or someone who just loves capturing memories in high-definition, the right tech gear can seriously elevate your cruising experience. But, as we all know, with great tech comes great responsibility… and a bunch of chargers. Let’s break down the essentials.

• Smartphone with a good camera: Let’s be real, most of us don’t go anywhere without it. Great for quick snaps, maps, and staying connected.
• Digital camera or DSLR (if you’re into photography): For those wanting a bit more than what your smartphone offers. Don’t forget extra memory cards!
• Waterproof camera or GoPro: For capturing those snorkeling adventures, beach days, or any water-based activities.
• Portable speaker: For those impromptu cabin dance parties or setting a relaxing mood with some tunes on your balcony.
• E-reader (like Kindle): It’s lightweight, can store a plethora of books, and some models are even waterproof. Perfect for poolside reading.
• Universal adapter and converter: Essential if your cruise is international and you need to charge in various ports.
• Multi-port USB charger: Cabins often have limited outlets. With multiple devices, this becomes super handy.
• Portable power bank: Keeping your gadgets charged while on excursions. Don’t miss capturing a moment because of a dead battery!
• Waterproof phone case: Keep your phone safe during water activities or unexpected rain showers.
• Headphone splitter: Want to watch a movie with your travel companion without disturbing others? This is a game-changer.
• Laptop or tablet (if needed): For movie nights, editing photos on the go, or if you just can’t leave work behind.
• Smartwatch or fitness tracker: Keep track of your steps as you explore the ship or new destinations. Plus, some can even monitor your swimming stats!
• Cable organizer: Because tangled cords are the last thing you need on vacation. Trust me.

Pro tip : Always backup your photos and important data before your trip. You’ll have peace of mind knowing your memories are safe, even if your devices aren’t.

Alright, techie travelers, with your gadgets in tow, you’re all set to capture every mesmerizing sunset, dance the night away to your favorite playlists, and dive deep into thrilling tales without lugging around a library.

Coming up, we’ll tackle those miscellaneous items – the unsung heroes that may not immediately come to mind, but you’ll be so glad you packed! Let’s dive deeper into our cruise packing journey! 🛍️🔍

Miscellaneous Must-Haves

Hey, detail-oriented cruisers! 🌟🛍️ It’s often the little things that make all the difference, right? From ensuring smooth sailing (pun intended!) on embarkation day to making life onboard just that bit more convenient, this section is all about those oft-forgotten items that’ll have you cruising like a pro.

• Passport holder or travel wallet: Keep your ID, cruise documentation, and any other important paperwork organized and within easy reach.
• Lanyard for your cruise card: You’ll be using this card a LOT (for room access, purchases, etc.), so having it accessible is key.
• Binoculars: Perfect for spotting distant islands, marine life, or even just people-watching from your balcony.
• Ziplock or waterproof bags: Useful for storing wet swimwear, protecting electronics, or even packing snacks for shore excursions.
• Highlighter: You’ll get a daily schedule of onboard activities. Highlighting your chosen ones ensures you won’t miss out on the fun!
• Magnetic hooks: Cruise cabin walls are generally metal. These hooks provide extra storage and keep essential items within easy reach.
• Over-the-door organizer: Additional storage, especially in those compact cruise bathrooms, is a game-changer.
• Dry erase board: Hang it outside your cabin to leave notes for your travel companions or make new friends with fellow cruisers.
• Travel laundry detergent and sink stopper: For quick hand washes in your cabin. A life-saver for longer cruises!
• Towel clips: Prevent your beach towel from flying away on windy deck days.
• Nightlight: Cruise cabin bathrooms can be pitch-black at night. A small nightlight can guide the way.
• Small hand fan: Great for those warmer destinations or if the ship’s AC isn’t quite cool enough for your liking.
• Wrinkle release spray: Because no one’s got time for ironing on vacation!
• Travel sewing kit: For those unexpected wardrobe malfunctions.
• Reusable  water bottle: Stay hydrated on the go, reduce plastic use, and save money!

You see, cruising is a unique form of travel. As much as it’s about the grand moments — like gazing at an epic ocean sunset or dancing the night away — it’s also about those small comforts and conveniences that make your journey seamless.

Ready for more? Let’s ensure your health and wellness don’t take a backseat while you’re soaking up the good vibes. Pack your way to feeling fabulous, no matter where the waves take you. 🌊💪

Just-In-Case Cruise Essentials

Hello, prudent packers! 🌦️🔧 Life has a quirky way of throwing curveballs, even when you’re out at sea. It’s always those ‘I wish I had…’ moments that catch us off guard. Fear not, for we’ve got the ultimate safeguard list for those unexpected hitches. Let’s roll out that safety net, shall we?

Weather Warriors

• Packable rain jacket or poncho: Quick showers can sneak up, especially in tropical paradises.
• Travel-sized umbrella: Handy for sporadic drizzles or to provide some shade.
• Extra swimwear: If your primary set isn’t dry yet and the pool is calling your name.

Health Helpers

• Mini first-aid kit: Stocked with band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and maybe a pain reliever or two.
• Blister guards or bandaids: New shoes + exploring = potential for blisters.
• Hydration solution: Electrolyte tablets can be a lifesaver after a long sunny day or if you’re feeling a bit off.
• Emergency contact info: On a card or digitally – includes medical info, blood type, and contacts.

Apparel Aids

• Unexpected event outfit: A versatile dress or shirt/pants combo for surprise formal dinners or events.
• Backup basics: An extra pair of socks and undies because… well, you know.
• Quick-clean tools: Tide-to-go pen or small detergent packets for unexpected spills.
• Backup documentation: Digital and physical copies of your passport, tickets, and other crucial docs.
• Tiny torch: A compact flashlight or even a keychain light for those just-in-case scenarios.
• Eyewear essentials: Spare contacts, glasses, or even just a cleaning cloth.
• Quick fixers: Mini duct tape or a few safety pins can save the day in many situations.
• Bonus bag: A foldable, lightweight bag can be a gem for surprise shopping finds or just organizing your stuff.

There’s wisdom in the age-old saying: “Better safe than sorry.” With these just-in-case essentials tucked neatly into your luggage, you’re not just packing items, but reassurance.

So, as you venture forth into the vast blue yonder, know that you’re armed and ready for whatever surprises may float your way. 🚢🌅🔍

Cruise-Specific Essentials

Ahoy there, cruise enthusiasts! 🚢🌟 Whether you’re a cruise newbie eager to get things right or a seasoned sailor looking for some fresh ideas, we’ve got a treasure trove of insider secrets here. These aren’t just your run-of-the-mill essentials; these are the gems that experienced cruisers swear by. Ready to set sail like a true cruise aficionado? Let’s navigate these waters!

Cabin Comfort Enhancers

• Outlet expander (sans surge protector): Maximize your gadget charging with the limited cabin outlets.
• Sound machine or soothing app: Drown out ship noises or lull yourself into a peaceful slumber.
• Door decor: Add a touch of personality to your cabin door and spot it easily amidst a hallway of sameness.

Deck Day Delights

• Thermal drink container: Sip your favorite drink at its perfect temperature while lounging.
• Discreet portable speaker: Set the mood with your favorite tunes but remember, cruise courtesy first!
• Towel securing clips: No more chasing after wind-blown towels on deck.

Exploration Enhancers

• Collapsible day bag: A space-saver that’s perfect for off-ship adventures.
• On-the-go battery pack: Snap, record, and capture without the dread of a dying device.
• Petty cash in local currency: Dive into local markets or tip generously without scrambling for change.

Mingling & Memory Making

• Personal contact cards: You never know who you’ll connect with; make sure they remember you!
• Cruise-themed attire: Be ready for those spontaneous theme nights or onboard events.
• Pocket games or card sets: Perfect conversation starters or evening entertainers.

Foodie Favors

• Eco-friendly straws: Sip sustainably, whether it’s a pina colada or fresh coconut water.
• Personal bottle opener: For those cherished bottles you’ve brought onboard or picked up at a port.
• Sealable snack pouches: Store buffet goodies for a midnight snack or a later treat.

And there we have it – the compass to steer your cruise experience from great to phenomenal! By weaving these cruise hacks into your voyage, you’re not just traveling; you’re journeying with finesse and flair.

Setting Sail with Confidence

And just like that, fellow wanderers, we’ve navigated the vast waters of cruise preparation together. 🌍🚢✨

The anticipation of a cruise adventure, with its allure of open seas, balmy nights, and exotic ports, is one of life’s greatest joys. But as with any journey, being prepared can make all the difference. It’s not just about ticking items off a list, but equipping yourself for memories waiting to be made, for stories yet to be told, and for experiences that will leave footprints on your heart.

What’s wonderful is that with every cruise, you’ll refine your packing process. Maybe on one journey, you’ll find you didn’t need half the clothes you packed, and on another, you’ll be grateful for that “just-in-case” item you tossed in at the last minute. That’s the beauty of travel: it’s an evolving lesson in self-awareness, adaptability, and embracing the unexpected.

So here’s our parting wave: Embrace the horizon, feel the salt in your hair, dance under a canopy of stars, and always cruise with an open heart and infectious enthusiasm.

May the ocean’s rhythm sync with your heartbeat, and may your cruise be as boundless and beautiful as the seas themselves. Anchors up and bon voyage! 🌊🌟🚢

FAQs on Cruise Essentials

Setting sail soon? 🚢⚓️ We understand that preparing for a cruise can be both exciting and a tad overwhelming, especially when it comes to packing. To make things smoother, we’ve compiled a comprehensive FAQ section on cruise essentials. Dive in and let’s find answers to those burning questions!

Why can’t I bring a regular power strip on a cruise?

• Most cruise lines have strict policies against power strips with surge protectors as they can pose fire hazards. Instead, opt for one without a surge protector to safely charge multiple devices in your cabin.

Can I bring my own alcohol onboard?

• Cruise line policies vary. Some allow a bottle or two of wine or champagne, while others might charge a corkage fee. Always check your specific cruise line’s alcohol policy before boarding.

Are there laundry services on the ship?

• Most cruise ships offer laundry services for a fee. Some might even have self-service laundromats. Packing a small amount of detergent can be handy for in-cabin washing.

Why do I need to pack local currency? Doesn’t everyone accept credit cards?

• While many tourist spots accept cards, it’s wise to have local currency for smaller vendors, local markets, or tipping. Plus, not everywhere may have functioning card facilities.

Is Wi-Fi available on the ship?

• Most modern cruise ships offer Wi-Fi, though speeds can vary and it might come at an extra cost. Check with your cruise line for specifics.

Why would I need clips for my towel on deck?

• Cruise ship decks can get windy! Towel clips help secure your towel to your lounger, preventing it from blowing away.

Can I drink the tap water in my cabin?

• Tap water onboard is typically safe to drink. However, if you’re skeptical, bottled water is usually available for purchase, or you can bring a reusable water filter.

Is there a dress code for cruises?

• Day-to-day attire is generally casual, but most cruises have formal nights or themed events. Check your cruise itinerary or handbook for specifics.

Why should I bring reusable straws or containers?

• It’s a sustainability move. Many cruises are trying to reduce single-use plastics. By bringing your own reusable items, you’re contributing to the cause.

What kind of outlet adapters do I need?

• Cruise ships often use a mix of European and American outlets. It’s advisable to bring a universal adapter to cover all your bases.

Can I pack a hairdryer or iron?

• Many cabins come equipped with hairdryers. However, irons are typically not allowed due to fire safety regulations. If you need one, use the ship’s laundry services.

Do I really need to pack copies of my important documents?

• Absolutely. If originals are lost or stolen, having backups can be a lifesaver, especially in foreign ports.

Do I need to get specific travel insurance for cruising?

• It’s highly recommended. While regular travel insurance covers many aspects, a cruise-specific insurance can cater to unique situations like missed port departures, onboard medical emergencies, or even evacuations.

How do I stay connected with my group onboard without Wi-Fi or mobile service?

• Many cruisers use walkie-talkies to stay connected. Alternatively, some cruise lines have their own apps that work without internet but use the ship’s intranet.

What’s the deal with gratuities on cruises?

• Most cruise lines automatically add gratuities to your onboard account, distributed among staff. However, you can adjust or remove these at guest services. Always check your cruise line’s specific policy.

How do I manage seasickness?

• Packing seasickness bands, over-the-counter meds like Dramamine, or consulting with your doctor for prescription solutions can help. Opting for a cabin mid-ship and on a lower deck can also reduce motion sensitivity.

Are cruises accommodating to dietary restrictions?

• Absolutely! Cruise lines offer a plethora of dining options. Inform them ahead of time about specific dietary needs or restrictions.

Can I bring my own snacks onboard?

• Most cruise lines allow pre-packaged, unopened snacks. Remember, it’s always good to have a stash for late-night munchies or port excursions.

How early should I arrive before my cruise departure?

• It’s typically recommended to arrive at the port at least 2-3 hours before scheduled departure. Some seasoned cruisers even suggest flying into the departure city a day early to avoid unexpected travel delays.

Is there a limit to how much luggage I can bring?

• While there isn’t usually a strict limit, cabin space is limited. It’s wise to check your cruise line’s guidelines and pack efficiently.

Do I need to book excursions in advance?

• While you can book excursions onboard, popular ones can fill up quickly. Booking in advance ensures you get your desired experience.

Can I customize my onboard activities?

• Definitely! Cruise lines offer a variety of activities, and you’re free to join or skip as per your interests. Some cruises even allow pre-booking of shows or special activities.

What should I be aware of when visiting ports of call?

• Research local customs, dress codes, and safety guidelines. Ensure you’re aware of the local time (it may differ from ship time) so you return to the ship punctually.

Are there age restrictions for certain activities on the ship?

• Yes, activities like casinos, certain shows, or adult-only pools may have age restrictions. It’s best to check in advance to plan accordingly.

What happens if I need medical attention during the cruise?

• All cruise ships have onboard medical facilities with trained staff. Remember, onboard medical care can be costly, so travel insurance is crucial.

We hope these FAQs help streamline your packing process and put any cruising concerns to rest. Remember, every cruise is an adventure waiting to unfold. Prepare well, embark with an open heart, and let the seas surprise you! Happy Cruising! 🚢🌊🌍

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THE Cruise Packing Checklist: 85 Items To Bring (Printable)

Searching for a cruise packing checklist you can trust? Look no further. The staff at Cruzely has taken cruises from Miami to Vancouver, including trips done solo, as a couple, and with a family.

In other words, when it comes to packing for a cruise, nobody has the expertise — and the experience — that we do.

And if you think packing for a regular vacation can be daunting, then try packing for life on the ship.

What’s so challenging about cruise packing? Well, when you cruise you have some unique situations that you don’t find on any other vacation.

First, you have so many different scenarios to pack for . Sure you might think that it’s tossing some shorts and a swimsuit into a suitcase. On a cruise, however, you’re hanging out by the pool in a swimsuit, dressing up for dinner, wearing casual clothes to the buffet, and putting on something warm for a show in the theater.

In other words, you need to pack for a lot of different situations.

Second, in the middle of the ocean it’s tough to run out for anything that you forgot . Yes, you can wait until you get to port to pick up things you meant to bring, but that’s not always convenient. And while the ship will have some sort of small shop you can purchase things you forgot, these spots are notorious for being expensive for basic items (seriously, we’ve seen an $18 bottle of cold medicine).

That’s why we’ve put together this packing checklist for your next cruise. It covers everything that you might need to bring, all broken down into easy sections. It’s not saying you have to bring everything on the list, but it offers up a lot of ideas that you’ll want to consider.

Note: This article contains links to Amazon. As an Amazon affiliate we earn a portion of each sale at no extra cost to you.

Download the Printable Checklist

Our checklist of things to pack for a cruise is completely free. While we cover all the items in detail below, you can click the image (or click this link ) to download the printable PDF.

While many items on the list are self-explanatory, we go into more detail below about what’s included on the checklist for your cruise.

Cruise Packing Checklist: Clothes

Clothing will make up the bulk of what you’ll bring on a cruise, and rightly so. With so many different scenarios to dress for on a cruise, it’s helpful to bring a little bit of everything.

Of course, how much you’ll bring depends on how many days you’ll be at sea. Shorter cruises obviously require fewer items. Also, it’s ok if you wear the same thing twice on a cruise. For a 7-day cruise, having 3-4 outfits is a good idea.

Casual Clothes

• T-Shirts (at least one for every two days of your cruise)
• Shorts (at least one pair for every two days of your cruise)
• Long pants (at least one pair for nights on the ship)
• Long-sleeve shirt (at least one for nights on the ship)
• Swimsuit (At least two, so that one can dry when you wear the other)
• Swimsuit cover-up
• Light jacket or hoodie (evenings on the ship can be cool)
• Sleep clothes
• Athletic shorts
• Flip-flops (be sure they have tread; wet decks can be slippery)

Formal Clothes for Men

• Dress shirt
• Dress pants
• Dress shoes
• Blazer (optional, if you want to be more formal)
• Tie (optional)

Formal Clothes for Women

• Evening gown or cocktail dress
• Dress blouse
• Shoes/sandals
• Jewelry/accessories

Cruise Packing Checklist: Items For the Cabin

Think you only need to pack things to wear? The following items are ideal for a cabin to make it more comfortable during your cruise. Don’t think you have to pack all of these items, but those that catch your interest should be brought along.

• Small fan (cabins don’t have fans to circulate air)
• Nightlight (interior cabins are especially dark)
• Magnetic hooks (to hang from the ceiling to dry swimsuits)
• Outlet adapter (to provide more outlet spaces in the cabin; those with surge protectors aren’t allowed)
• Shoe organizer (hangs over the door for storage of small items)
• Alarm clock (alarm on the phone is just fine)
• “ Poopouri ” (bathroom smells can linger)

Cruise Packing Checklist: Personal Items

In addition to clothes, you need to pack a few other items with you to make your cruise go smoothly. This includes everything from your boarding documents to your toothbrush.

• Boarding documents
• Luggage tags
• Passport/birth certificate
• Copy of passport/birth certificate (carry a copy of your passport with you in port; keep the original in the cabin safe)
• Emergency contact numbers
• Cash ( we’ve written about how much you need here )
• Backpack ( a light backpack is perfect for taking into port)
• Prescription medicines
• Over-the-counter medicines (headache, stomachache)
• Motion sickness pills/patches
• Phone charger
• Waterproof phone case
• Ziploc bags (these bags have numerous uses)

Toiletries/Personal Care

• Cotton swabs
• Feminine products
• Hair straightener/curling iron
• Shampoo/conditioner
• Hair products
• Glasses/contact lenses
• Wet wipes (cabin toilet paper is thin, 1-ply product; do not flush wipes)

Cruise Packing Checklist: Kids Items

Obviously not everyone packs for a cruise with kids. But if you are packing for a family, then there are some things that good to bring. See our full list of ideas here .

Infants/Toddlers

• Silicone place mat
• Umbrella stroller
• A new toy (great for when kids are fussy and need a distraction)
• Swim diapers
• Bottles/water bottle
• Diapers and wipes

One thing to know is that cruise lines will provide a crib for sleeping in your cabin at no charge. Just let the staff know you need one.

• Handheld video games
• Playing cards
• Snorkel gear
• Water shoes

Cruise Packing Checklist: Other Items to Bring

While we’ve covered a number of things to pack for your cruise, there are some other miscellaneous items that are a good idea to bring.

• Wine/champagne ( a bottle or two is allowed )
• Non-alcoholic drinks ( if allowed by your cruise line )
• Towel clips
• Wristwatch (set to the ship’s time when leaving for port)
• Lanyard (for holding your room keycard)
• Books/magazines
• Wrinkle-release spray
• Refillable bottle

Cruise Packing Checklist: Not Needed/Not Allowed

The following items may be tempting to bring, but cruise lines either take care of these for you or they aren’t allowed on the ship.

• Hair dryer (already provided in each cabin)
• Liquor/beer
• Homemade snacks (not allowed; pre-packaged snacks are ok)
• Towels (beach towels are supplied on the cruise)
• Clothing iron
• Weapons (including small knives and pepper spray)

Cruise Packing Tips: Beyond the Checklist

As we’ve mentioned, packing for a cruise is a little different than any other vacation. While you need to prepare for lots of different situations — everything from hanging out by the pool to formal night — we actually think it can be easier to pack for a cruise than other trips. That’s because the rules for packing are more relaxed than if you are flying for a vacation.

Luggage Rules Are Fairly Simple Want to bring a large suitcase? Or two large suitcases? Or two carry-ons and several large bags? It’s all ok. The luggage rules surrounding cruises are nothing like you’ll find with airlines. Cruises don’t charge for luggage and there are no weight limits (within reason) .

In short, you can bring as much as you want. That’s one less thing to worry about when packing for your cruise and very convenient for passengers who are driving to the port.

Remember You Have to Carry Everything to the Ship While the rules surrounding luggage mean you can bring as much as you want, remember that whatever you bring, you will have to get it to and from the port. So if you are flying to the cruise port, then you’ll have to pay any baggage fees your airline might charge. You also have to carry your bags to the terminal to drop off for the luggage handlers.

Instead, keeping your bags manageable will save you a lot of hassle when you head to the ship.

Liquids Are OK Another way cruise packing is easier is that there aren’t rules regarding liquid sizes. You likely know that airlines limit you to three ounces of liquids to get through security. There are no such limits with cruise security .

So if you have a bottle of your favorite shampoo you want to bring or simply have an 8-ounce bottle of sunscreen, go ahead and pack it. There is no need to put it into smaller travel-sized containers.

Keep Anything for the First Day in Your Carry-On You don’t have to check any bags at the port if you don’t want. If you can carry it with you to your cabin, you are welcome to take it aboard. Still, many people choose to check larger or heavier bags instead of carrying those by themselves. It’s just easier. These bags are then delivered to your room later in the afternoon or evening.

If you check a bag, be sure to bring a carry-on that has anything in it you might need for the first day. So you’ll want a change of clothes, swimsuit, toiletries, boarding documents, and any valuables. If you bring on wine or champagne, also pack it in your carry-on so that it doesn’t accidentally get broken.

For more things to pack, don’t miss our 39 Useful Things to Pack for a Cruise (Including 17 You Might Not Think Of) .

Popular: 39 Useful Things to Pack (17 You Wouldn't Think Of)

Read next: park & cruise hotels for every port in america, popular: 107 best cruise tips, secrets, tricks, and freebies.

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Thank you – this was very helpful – much appreciated!!!

That’s very good information 👌

Great list – getting ready for a cruise in May. Question, can you bring two bottles of wine or just one. Thanks for the tips.

Depends on the cruise line. In general, however, if you are traveling with two adults, you can bring two bottles of wine.

Thank you so much! This is a super helpful list!

quit telling people to bring wipes! THEY ARE NOT FLUSHABLE AND WILL CLOG THE SYSTEM AND FLOOD.

Nobody said to flush them. You place them in the trash.

Very useful tips for someone (like me) going on their first cruise.

This information was very helpful.

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Everything to Know About Balcony Cabins on a Cruise Ship (Read Before Booking)

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41 Cruise Essentials You Shouldn’t Cruise Without

First-time cruiser or seasoned pro, it’s time to organize your cruise essentials. Don’t forget to print our cruise packing list below.

We’ve compiled essential tips from our cruises and our experienced friend, Kim, the Cruising Queen. She has amassed over 60 cruises since childhood and has contributed invaluable packing wisdom to this list.

What are cruise essentials? Cruise essentials are recommended items that enhance your experience by providing comfort and enjoyment. While our list covers basics, consider adding personal preferences like a refillable water bottle or necessary medications not readily available on the ship.

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning we earn a commission at no extra cost. Please refer to our  full disclosure  for details.

Pack essentials for a cruise, including cabin comforts and shore excursion items. This guide covers things to bring on a cruise that will make your vacation more enjoyable. Your needs may vary, so adjust accordingly. Note : Some cruise itineraries may require a slightly different packing list.

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Table of Contents

CRUISE MUST-HAVES: PRE-CRUISE ITEMS

1. be prepared and have your passport and/or government identification ready.

Don’t overlook the passport—it’s the top priority on your cruise packing list. Without it, you won’t be allowed on board, especially if you’re departing from or arriving outside the US. Pack it in your  travel essentials bag  and check its expiration date; some countries enforce a 6-month validity rule.

When planning our Celebrity Beyond cruise to the Mediterranean, I discovered mine was too close to expiring. This prompted me to expedite its renewal immediately upon returning from our last cruise to avoid any hassles with our upcoming cruises.

2. Sturdy Luggage With Wheels That Glide

The importance of sturdy luggage with smooth gliding wheels becomes evident when navigating airports and cruise terminals. Opting for reliable luggage with smooth-spinner wheels can alleviate travel difficulties.

We recently tested Monos and Away travel luggage, focusing on durability, sturdiness, organization, and carry-on capacity. Our recommendation for an excellent overall experience goes to AWAY luggage . However, if you’re looking for budget-friendly options, Amazon offers a variety, including brands like Samsonite and Level 8 .

3. Track Your Luggage: Apple AirTags or Tile Mate Tracker

Lost luggage is a common issue at flight check-in or with cruise porters.  Apple AirTags  offers a modern solution for easy tracking, a small investment for added peace of mind. We always check in to see if our luggage arrives on the plane or the ship.

Android users can opt for  Tile Mate tags .

4. Cruise Luggage Tags

Cruise luggage tags will likely not be mailed to you unless you’re a suite or luxury cruise guest. And even then, you may not receive anything as we did not when we booked a suite at  The Retreat on Celebrity Beyond .

Print them before embarkation. Some staple them to their suitcases, while others use cruise luggage tag holders for security and a neat look. You can then slide the printed e-tags into sealed plastic holders, securing them with a steel loop.

Print an extra set in advance—avoid the hassle of long lines at the port for last-minute printing.

Save now, share with friends, or come back to it later.

Cruise Cabin Items For Efficiency

5. electrical hub essentials: power strip | power outlet.

Bring a power strip or power outlet extender for your cruise, especially on older ships with limited outlets. Cabins often have just a few outlets, and with multiple devices to charge, it’s a smart investment.

Consider a power strip with USB-A and USB-C compatibility.

Newer ships may have more outlets, like our balcony cabin on the Norwegian Joy, which has three US outlets. Assess your needs and plan accordingly.

We have purchased quite a few throughout the years to fit our different needs as we travel:

• CruiseOn Power Outlet
• Tessan Universal Travel Adapter
• One Beat Multi Plug Outlet Extender

‼️ Important Cruise Tip: Surge protectors are  banned on cruise ships  – leave them at home. Bring a plain power strip.

6. Additional Power Hub: USB Charging Station

For your cruise, research and check if your cabin has USB ports—if so, a power outlet extender with extra USB-A ports (as mentioned in #4) suffices. If not, you may want to bring a USB charging station for multiple devices.

If you have many devices needing charging, we recommend an extra charging station—one with USB-A and USB-C ports. Don’t risk a dead camera or phone during port outings.

You can keep all cables, chargers, and power outlets organized in a cable/electronic case like this one that we use.

Read more: 30 Enjoyable Cruise Activities: From Free to Paid Options

7. Power on the Go with a Portable Charger

It is important to have a portable charger with you, especially when disembarking the ship for the day. Since I take so many photos and videos throughout the day, even on Sea Days, by mid-day, I usually bring my portable charger out to get a boost.

Over the years, we’ve tried various portable chargers, and the Morphie chargers stand out as favorites. Their fast charging capability and ability to charge multiple devices simultaneously make them reliable choices, especially when sharing with hubby.

8. Smart Space Solutions: Over-the-Door Toiletry Organizer

Consider an over-the-door organizer for three or more people in one cabin, maximizing bathroom storage. This is great for shared spaces with limited surface area. The organizer allows everyone to store their toiletries and other items in designated pockets for easy access later.

We recently upgraded to the BAGSMART Toiletry Bag , replacing our old five-year-old organizer . The new bag is a standout, accommodating everything from our previous organizer and more. It’s practical with a secure zip, foldable design, and features like a handle and door hook, making it perfect for our cruise cabin. We opted for the large size, which suits our needs as a duo.

9. The Handy Portable Fan

A portable fan may seem surprising, but a portable fan is a top recommendation and one of the most popular items on our list. Battery-operated, foldable, and easy to pack in your luggage.

Our friend Kim swears by it for a good night’s sleep and to keep the air circulating, making it a must-have for her on every cruise. Other cruisers can’t sleep without the noise of a fan.

10. Portable Glamour: Your Essential Travel Vanity Mirror

Kim’s stand-up mirror is a brilliant suggestion that our readers love. It’s a must-have if you share a compact cabin with limited space. A standing makeup mirror is a practical solution when you need to do your make-up and someone else is hogging up the bathroom.

For an upgraded experience, explore a travel vanity mirror with lights . While not as basic, it’s rechargeable and provides extra illumination—an excellent choice for enhancing your makeup routine.

11. Utilize Cruise Cabin Space: Maximize Efficiency with Magnetic Hooks

Cabin walls are made of metal, making magnetic hooks a cruise essential.

Opt for heavy-duty ones that hold 100 lbs or more —they’re perfect for keeping your lanyard, hat, or other items organized and secure in the cabin. I also use them to hold important documents on the wall instead of buying and carrying a 2nd set of magnets.

Additionally, you can use them to hang items to dry in the bathroom by sticking one to the ceiling of the shower. They are efficient and versatile.

12. Portable Clothes Line to the Rescue

A must-have when there’s no built-in clothesline in your cruise cabin bathroom. This handy cruise cabin hack , combined with magnetic hooks, lets you dry clothes anywhere inside your cabin. Research your cabin category before cruising to determine if you need to pack this versatile item. Ideal for drying hand-washed items or drying wet swimsuits.

Our balcony cabin on Celebrity Solstice did not have a clothesline.

13. Clothespins Have More Than One Use

In the comments, a seasoned cruiser suggested bringing a few clothespins from home. In your cabin bathroom, use them on the clothing line to hang up wet swimsuits or hand-washed items. They also come in handy for securing balcony curtains and keeping light out of the room. This is a small, practical addition to enhance your cruise experience.

If you purchase the Portable Clothes Line above, you don’t need to bring clothespins, as that set comes with them.

14. Don’t Stub Your Toe in the Middle of the Night: Bring a Nightlight

Nighttime in the cabin can be pitch dark, risking a stubbed toe during nighttime bathroom trips– I speak from experience, ouch.

Solve this with a small LED nightlight. Battery-powered tea lights work well. They’re cheap, take up minimal luggage space, and are often available at local dollar stores– I get mine at Ikea.

You can also consider the travel nightlight by CruiseOn or a plug-in nightlight .

15. Packing Cubes: Packing Tip Not To Be Missed

I believe in packing cubes . Packing cubes keeps your suitcase organized and saves space, making unpacking a breeze. After dropping off your suitcase in the cruise cabin, transfer your packed cubes to the drawers or shelves. Hang a few items in the closet, and you’ll be ready to head out for another vacation cocktail in no time.

16. Stuff Your Dirty Clothes in a Laundry Bag

This foldable laundry bag easily fits in your luggage or carry-on. Conveniently toss dirty clothes during your trip, and when packing for disembarkation, stuff the bag, clothes, and all into your luggage. While others prefer pop-up laundry bags, we like to keep our dirty clothes separate when repacking.

A shopping bag may also suffice, but our trusty laundry bag has been a reliable travel companion on many trips. Even though our new suitcases came with laundry bags, we still packed and used this one .

Cruise Ship Essentials: Accessories

17. a coffee tumbler for the coffee lover.

For coffee lovers, packing your favorite coffee tumbler is a game-changer. Those buffet cups are a joke, and since we all like to save money on a cruise , hubby uses his tumbler to avoid multiple buffet trips. Essential since anything outside the main dining areas and designated coffee spots is considered a specialty and costs extra.

It’s also environmentally friendly, safer in crowded spaces since it is covered (I’ve almost run into other passengers a few times while carrying an open cup of coffee), and keeps your coffee hot longer. Trust me, you’ll thank me later.

Note: Leave the tumbler at home if you purchase a premium beverage package that includes all the specialty coffees you can drink . They provide to-go cups, and health regulations prohibit them from serving coffee in your tumbler.

18. Stay Hydrated and Bring a Reusable Water Bottle

An insulated water tumbler is your eco-friendly companion on and off the ship. Cruise ships don’t provide free bottled water unless you have a drink package, so fill up your tumbler with ice and water at the buffet with the filtered water they provide. It’s another great way to save money and stay hydrated. You can also bring it off the ship with you on port days.

Tip: Some cruise lines will allow you to carry on a case of water water bottles. Check with the cruise line you’re sailing in.

19. Reusable Straws If You Can’t Drink Your Frozen Drinks Without One

Plastic straws are a thing of the past on many cruise lines, replaced by eco-friendly options like paper and compostable straws. Depending on the cruise, they probably won’t give you one, or only by request.

Missing a straw with your piña colada? We get it. It’s not the same. Although bringing your straws may seem unnecessary, it’s a personal choice considering the environmental impact of plastic. Cruise lines are adapting, but if you prefer your own, go ahead and bring them along.

20. Lanyards & Alternative Ways to Hold Your Cruise Card

You’ll receive a cruise cabin card upon embarkation—a multifunctional key to your cruise experience. Linked to your credit card, it serves as your payment method, grants access to your cabin, and facilitates embarkation and disembarkation. Carrying it with you is vital, and using a lanyard is a popular, convenient, and readily accessible way to keep your cruise cabin card close at hand.

While lanyards are sold on the cruise ship, you can find affordable options on Amazon. Remember to carry your cruise ship card when leaving your cabin, and since hole-punching is no longer allowed, opt for a lanyard with a plastic slip.

I’ve ditched lanyards for a small crossbody bag on cruises. Alternatively, consider phone/wallet crossbody bags or phone wallets that attach to your phone—perfect for keeping your cruise cabin card accessible.

This is the crossbody purse I’ve been using since it fits my Kindle, too.

Some newer cruise ships offer advanced features, allowing you to manage everything from your phone and its app, including locking and unlocking your cabin door. Virgin Cruises gives you a bracelet to manage it all, making cruise cards a thing of the past their ships.

21. Ziplock Bags

The most versatile item for your cruise is a Ziplock bag —handy for unexpected needs like storing wet clothes, organizing last-minute items in your luggage, and even snacks. We recommend bringing gallon and quart-sized bags. Environmentally friendly reusable storage bags are also a great alternative.

Cruise Shore Excursion and Port Day Essentials

22. keep your towel in place with beach towel clips & bands.

During one of our cruises, we discovered the value of beach towel clips while sunbathing by the pool deck on the ship and then at the beach in port. These clips keep your towel secure on your chair, preventing the frustration of constant readjustments, especially on windy days. And when you’re out at sea, it’s windy. Now, we always travel with beach towel clips.

Another option popular among cruisers is beach towel bands .

23. Waterproof Phone Case for Water Adventures

Ideal for vacations with water activities, a waterproof phone case has proven invaluable during cruise shore excursions like kayaking in Harvest Caye . The universal waterproof phone pouch, being both affordable and popular, is my go-to. It’s a permanent fixture in my travel essentials arsenal; it’s easy to roll up and pack, taking up minimal room.

24. Bring Your Own Snorkel Set

While we include the snorkel set in our beach packing list , just like we won’t miss packing our flip-flops, we will always bring our own set when cruising to beach destinations. This way, we are ready to head to the beach and snorkel if we don’t plan excursions. Even if we do, we like having ones we are used to using and know that no one else has used them. Plus, you save money by not having to rent them out.

25. Water shoes

These are always a must for us when cruising the Caribbean. Not all beaches are equal with that soft white sand you want to sink your toes in. Some have rocky beaches, like in Bonaire , where our water shoes were lifesaving. You can carry them in your beach bag or wear them for the day if you know you’re going to beach hopping.

These are my favorite water shoes because they look like sneakers, while my husband prefers his Speedos .

26. Packable Beach Towel

The cruise ship will give you a beach towel to bring off the ship on port days. Realistically, there is no need to spend money on more towels if you don’t want to.

However, these packable microfiber beach towels are not bulky, easy to pack, and take up less room in your beach bag. They’ll do the same job or better than the cruise ship towel. This may be a wise investment if you’re a frequent cruiser looking to save space in your beach bag.

27. A Hat For Sun Protection

Don’t underestimate the power of a sun hat. Often overlooked, it becomes a regrettable afterthought when you’re under the scorching sun. Ideal for sunny days on the pool deck, too.

Learn from my experience, pack your favorite sun hat, and avoid impromptu purchases at the port.

28. Beach Bag or Travel Backpack for Port Days

Choose a beach bag or travel backpack for sunscreen, water bottle, towel, and more.

We use a versatile carry-on bag , doubling as a cruise carry-on and a beach bag at ports. During other trips, we take it empty in our luggage to fill it up with goodies we find while on vacation to bring back.

Another great option that we love to use is the packable backpack .

29. Travel Umbrella Because You Can’t Let Some Drizzle Rain on Your Parade

Cruise ships typically provide umbrellas only to passengers staying in higher-end suites. If it’s raining at port, you might consider staying on the ship, but that doesn’t stop everyone. Bring a travel umbrella ; weather can be unpredictable, especially in the Caribbean, where rain showers come and go. It’s also a must-pack item for cruises to Alaska , and we certainly used ours.

Essentials Toiletries & First Aid You’ll Need

30. don’t forget the sunscreen.

Planning to sunbathe on the pool deck or at the beach at port? Don’t forget sunscreen —even on overcast days. I skipped it once on a cloudy day and regretted it with a severe sunburn. Sunscreen is a cruise essential and will cost you double or triple the normal cost on the cruise ship. Try to get reef-friendly sunscreen if you’re heading out snorkeling at port.

31. Take Care of That Sunburn with This Sunburn Relief

Have you ever ended up buying overpriced aloe at the port due to a bad sunburn? I’ve been there. Despite ample sunscreen in Hawaii, we faced serious sunburns. We discovered an incredible after-sun moisturizer in Kauai that is worth bringing with you.

32. Keep Mosquitos Away: Mosquito Repellent

This will depend on where you’re cruising, but adding an insect repellent to your cruise packing list isn’t a bad idea. If mosquitos love you, you won’t regret having a good repellent with you. We love the Natrapel brand repellent , which you can find in sporting goods stores like REI.

33. Prepare for Seasickness

Bring sea bands or a motion sickness patch , just in case. If you prefer alternatives to medications like Dramamine or Bonine . Ginger pills can help, but start taking them 2-3 weeks before the cruise for effectiveness. Green apples in the buffet are readily available and can assist with motion sickness.

34. Shared Cabin Tip: Poo-Pourri to the Rescue

When sharing a cabin with limited bathroom privacy, like on the Norwegian Epic cruise ship , having a bottle of Poo-Pourri can be a lifesaver. This before-you-go toilet spray ensures a more pleasant shared space experience.

35. No Iron, No Problem: Use Downey Release Spray

Avoid the hassle of no irons onboard with Downy Wrinkle Release Spray . Just spray it on your clothes, smooth them out, and watch the wrinkles disappear within minutes. You can also hang your clothes in the bathroom after spraying them. The steam will help loosen those wrinkles out even more.

Note: Some Carnival, Princess, and Disney ships may have laundry rooms with irons, but you should verify within your cruise roll call or Facebook groups for the cruise ship if they are available.

You can also consider sending clothes for formal nights for proper ironing on day 1 of your cruise.

36. Laundry Detergent for Handwashing

We love to travel with the Tide-to-Go packets when we cruise. These handy detergent packets are perfect for handwashing clothes, and a little goes a long way—lasting for 2-3 washes.

If washing machines are available during our travels, we bring a few Tide pods from home in a ziplock bag for convenience.

37. Tide-To-Go Pen For Quick Clean-Up of Small Stains

Don’t travel anywhere without a Tide-to-Go pen. This pen is such a lifesaver. It will easily clean out spots you probably don’t know how they got there. Takes up no space, and it’s easy to pack.

38. Add Electrolyte Mixes to Your List

Whether exploring hot ports or winding down with a few drinks, enhance your cruise experience by including travel packs of electrolyte mixes to your cruise essentials.

Our top choice is Liquid I.V Hydration Multiplier , a refreshing and effective way to replenish electrolytes and stay energized. They are easy to pack, and the packets are small enough to keep 1 or 2 with you in your bag.

39. Medications You Need

For regular prescription medications, ensure they are always in your bag with you. Consider adding over-the-counter meds that you think you will need. Our handy pill organizer is filled with potential OTC meds and has proved invaluable during our travels. You can purchase something like this, too, and then label it.

• Allergy meds
• Aspirin (Tylenol)
• Anti-inflammatory (Advil, Aleve)
• Anti-diarrhea (Immodium, Pepto)

Create a list based on your needs. Be prepared for unexpected health situations during your cruise.

40. First Aid Kit

Always bring a small first-aid kit when traveling. They sell premade ones online that you can purchase and add a few things to do or make your own.

We do have travel with a first-aid kit with bandages and the like, but these are the top things that we like to keep in our first-aid kit outside of medications:

• Hydrocortisone
• Blister Bandages

41. Avoid Getting Sick: Use Hand Sanitizers and Disinfectants

When we travel, we always carry hand sanitizers and wipes. You can find mini disinfectants in local convenience stores, pharmacies, and markets.

While cruise ships have hand sanitizer stations, hand washing stations, and staff equipped with spray bottles with hand sanitizers, carrying your own helps keep your hands germ-free between hand washes is wise. Be proactive about your hygiene even when on board.

Is this a 100% foolproof way of not getting sick? No, but it helps to minimize your chances and someone else’s.

OUR Top 5 Cruise Essentials We Never Sail Without

• Portable Charger
• Over-the-Door Toiletry Bag
• Magnetic Hooks
• First-Aid/Medications

Printable Cruise Essentials Packing List

We’ve created a printable cruise packing list of the essentials mentioned in this post. You can cross off anything you don’t plan to take or don’t make sense for your traveling style. Check mark things you plan to pack as you add them to your suitcase.

What should I pack for my first cruise?

For your first cruise, pack travel documents, casual and formal clothing, toiletries, medications, electronics, sun protection, travel accessories, and optional items such as books to read.

What do I not need on a cruise?

On a cruise, you do not need to worry about packing things like shampoo, conditioner, and soap if you don’t mind using what they provide. You can also leave behind hangers and household items like coffee machines, and don’t think of bringing an iron or a steamer as they are prohibited items that are not allowed on a cruise ship .

What do I need when boarding a cruise?

When boarding a cruise, you must have your official identification, such as a passport or government-issued ID, and your boarding pass. Have a credit card to link to your cruise card for onboard expenses and cash for additional tipping. Additionally, you should keep the necessary medications and change clothes in your carry-on bag to be pool-ready if your checked luggage is delayed.

Clever Cruise Cabin Hacks and Tips

BEFORE YOU SET SAIL, HERE ARE SOME RELATED ARTICLES YOU DON’T WANT TO MISS:

• Must-Have Items to Pack for a Caribbean Cruise
• Packing For An Alaskan Cruise Must-Haves
• Women’s Cruise Clothing for Packing Smart
• Essential Men’s Cruise Wear Guide and Packing Pointers
• Beach Gear: 25 Must-Have Items for the Beach

Meet Kathy Ava, a food, travel, and cruise writer based in Los Angeles/Pasadena, and the owner and main writer of Tasty Itinerary. With over 20 years of experience planning trips and logistics at her full-time job and for herself, she's become a pro at crafting unforgettable tasty itineraries. She's always on the hunt for delicious, fun travel destinations and cruise itineraries. She firmly believes that life is short and we must make the most of it, so always say yes to dessert.

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40 Comments

I just booked a cruise so this was very helpful info to know in advance. Thanks for sharing!

That is great! Let me know if you need any other tips.

I’m about to book a cruise and this list is going to help me a lot! I love making travel lists and this one gave me some new ideas like makeup mirror lol (you know, us ladies need that!!) and tea lights. Overall, great tips!

Thanks, Amira at ASelfGuru.com

I’m so glad it helped! Let me know how that mirror works out for you.

I love that your husband needs to have his travel coffee mug! That is the best. Maybe you can make it a tradition to buy one on every ship…you know, just like people collect shot glasses or magnets?

So TMI but when I am packing for short trips (like overnights), I forget the most important item ever. AND IT’S NOT THE WINE. For some dumb reason, I forget clean undies. Yup. Confession from a world traveler here, and I am SO embarrassed. But I had to bring it up after the coffee mug thing.

Love the little electric candles. Clearly, I am too barfy for a cruise, but they came in so handy for our last FL hurricane. They are romantic too. A must; you are right.

I 200% need to travel with a stand up mirror! I need something for the plane too.

I will be sure to use your affiliate links when I make purchases.

Great post and tips. Thanks!

Love, Christine, The Uncorked Librarian

? But that is the most important thing to pack! ?? Love It!

But yeah, who knew that a coffee travel mug was an essential? I mean, I need coffee too but I just get it at breakfast and lunch if needed. I guess I don’t have the addiction your hubster has? He must literally drink it all day long. If I did that, you’d never see me cuz I’d be in the restroom ?

Kathy, your posts are always so informative! Informative, fun, and engaging! A triple threat! And Kim, awesome tips! Thank you!!

Haha, about the bathroom thing. I plead the 5th! =D

When you go on your first cruise and it’s one of those mega ships, you’ll understand what I’m talking about. It’s a long walk to and from the buffet usually. Coffee mug is a must for the free coffee. 🙂

Keep an eye on Bermuda cruise sales from NYC. You can get a great deal to go here and they stop in Bermuda for like 3 days. Great week away, even with the family.

Omg, Christine! I was dying laughing reading your comment last night. The way you express yourself is a skill I wish I had. Never change!

And, we did try to buy a travel mug at the gift shop on board, but they didn’t have any in stock. Can you believe that? Lack of marketing because I believe they would make a killing. We are not the first people to forget our travel mugs.

If you take a stand up mirror on the plane, I want pics!

Thank you for the support. You are amazing.

This post is awesome! I’ve been wanting to cruise forever and I’ve read so many posts about what to bring when you cruise. I promise you, none of them covered half the things you put on this post. And all of these things are super necessary. Great post 🙂

Oh, you made my day! This is so great to hear. Hope it helps with your future cruise plans.

This post comes at a perfect time for my family and I. We leave on our cruise in a week! So excited but nervous I may forget something. This will be my husband’s 10th cruise, my 4th cruise, my daughter’s 3rd cruise and my son’s 2nd cruise and all on Carnival!

Oh, how exciting! You must come back and let me know how it went. Or do you plan to blog about it? Either way, have a fantastic time! Cruising is a great family vacation.

Wow, I’ve never been on a cruise and I would have never thought to pack even half of these items!

Some of these items are great for other travel too. =)

It’s been many years since I was on a cruise, but I know that a list like this would have been extremely helpful! Great advice!

Thanks! Hope you get to go on a cruise someday soon!

What a treasure trove of tips! Many of these are great tips for travel in general. I’d never thought about an insulated cup for taking ice out in. I’ve never been on a cruise but if I ever do, I’ll definitely be referring back to this list ?

Hey! Thanks for stopping by! Yes, some of these just make life easier. I’m not one to pack a lot, but when we cruise, we do tend to take more stuff than usual.

I have never been on a cruise, but I would love to go on one at some point. These packing tips will come in handy if/when we do go on one. Thanks for sharing.

Hope you get to go on a cruise soon. It’s a great vacation option.

There are some awesome tips here that I would never have thought of!!! I love the suggestion of using an over the door shoe rack as storage space in the bathroom – genius!! We’ve only ever been on one cruise but it’s definitely something I’d like to do more of! Thanks for sharing these great tips!

How did you like that one cruise? People either love it or hate. Would love to know your thoughts!

Useful info! I’m not sure if I’ll ever be brave enough to go on a bigger cruise but it’s also exciting. Do you know any good pills that one can take if they are seasick? Or do you not get that on these huge ships?

I think the bigger the ship, the less likely you’ll get seasick. Also, important to book a mid-ship cabin so you don’t feel the rocking so much. Generally, I don’t feel it and I get used to it after a day. My BFF loves to cruise but suffers from motion sickness… ginger pills help, so she says. The crew always tells us to eat green apples cause that helps. Hope you get to try it out some day, even if its for a long weekend. It’s really like one great big party on the ship, especially if you go with a group of friends you love. Thanks for coming by, Jella! You’re awesome!

@Jella, I take a natural over the counter ginger vitamin 2 to 3 weeks before a cruise and during definitely has helped I also wear sea bands you can also buy ginger candies

Great tip. I love those ginger candies and chews, too.

This will be my third Cruise! I am definitely looking forward to it. Ever since my first cruise, I have researched what I might need on each trip. Your suggestions are spot on! I have gone through each trip list and either taken out some items or added to the list. I love cruising very much and like that you have made a list of essentials needed. Take care and cruise on!

Hi Joyce! Your feedback means so much! I’m always learning from other cruisers as well. So glad you agree with this list and think its helpful. Have fun on your next cruise!

I am curious as to how you take all this stuff and still stay under the 50# weight limit for the airlines. Haha. Going on our 2nd cruise in 12 years in a few months. Have been stocking up but need to watch the weight.

Hi Karen! Not everyone will pack everything on this list, only what they think they need to make their cruise more comfortable. We manage to always be under 50 lbs unless I start adding too many things from my beach packing list, that’s when it starts getting tricky. As we usually travel with a carry-on and then another suitcase that is slightly bigger that needs to be checked in. We also have travel backpacks. When we travel it is also just hubby and I, depending on the cabin, we probably won’t need the shoe rack and I may not be in the mood to apply make-up, so no mirror necessary. It all depends, however, most of this is small and light. I also do not like to overpack when it comes to clothes because I used to do this all the time and return home with never wearing half of what I packed. We also always take advantage of laundry on the ship (NCL offers $20 per bag of laundry as a mid-week special). When do we run into problems? On the return flight! Usually, its too many pounds of duty-free foreign coffee that we need to bring home or chocolate! That’s when the travel backpacks truly help. 😀 Hope you have a fantastic time on your cruise! Don’t stress about packing every single thing, just what you think you’ll need.?You can also buy one of those handy luggage scales and weigh your luggage before you leave your home.?

For a couple you could check 100 lbs of luggage. That seems like a fair amount to me.

Also, the only hassle would be lugging bags around the airport as once on the cruise you are situated. It is not like a European driving trip where you change hotels.

You just mentioned one of my favorite reasons to cruise… once situated on the ship, that’s it. No dragging luggage like when we go on a European adventure. Definitely a nice perk. Thanks for commenting!

Easiest way to weigh your bag is a bathroom scale. If it doesnt fit then weigh yourself, then hold the bag and subtract your weight from the new weight.

Yes, that’s a great tip. Also, a travel luggage scale is a great tool for when you’re not near a bathroom scale.

After 35 cruises I agree with every item. There are some that are new to me but I definitely will include. Another suggestion is plastic clothes pins to hang up lingerie and wet swim suits on the cord in the shower. Thanks for the tips

Hi Patricia – That’s a great tip! I will definitely add that one soon. Appreciate your comment – made my day!

Once i forgot my swimsuit. Not pretty. They didn’t have anything onboard to help and we searched in every port and finally found one I could squeeze into! My husband assured me it was fine. It was WAY to small. I actually wore a bra under it (and it had a DEEP plunging neckline!) Can we all say jacuzzi and suddenly every guy older than 70 is in the tub with me! Oy! And there water slide???? LOL 😣

One time I only took one bra. It malfunctioned – one front fastener on the strap broke and almost hit my husband in the eye when it propelled across the room! 😯 We didn’t have a safety pin and tried to fix it with an old earring until our room steward found a safety pin on the ship somewhere because even the gift shop didn’t have any!

So, the moral of my story is to be careful with your packing. Check off lists! I put all of my essential stuff on a chair as I remember what I am sure I’d forget.

We are off on a vaccinated cruise on Carnival next Sunday. Bathing suit, a spare and two extra bras plus more masks than one person needs, in the packing cube as I speak! 🤣

Oh no! I totally envisioned the hot tub scenario. Hubby always says the same, “you look fine” haha – gotta love them for loving us blindly.

Yes, it is so important to be careful with what we pack. There are some things that I’ve learned my lesson on and learned the hard way that I won’t always be able to buy it when I get to my destination.

I’m totally adding safety pins to this list after this comment. Also, going to mention a quick reminder of going over lists and not forgetting swimsuits. Thanks so much for commenting!

FYI, it’s “ports-of-call”. Many of your suggestions are very good.

Thank you, Betty!

Cruise Vacation Essentials

Tips, Hacks, and Fun Must-Have Gear for the Best Cruise Lifestyle

Cruise Must Have Essentials Ultimate Packing List

Ready to set sail? Packing for a cruise is a breeze with our comprehensive guide to cruise essentials. We’ve compiled all the must-have items and savvy tips to ensure you’re prepared for any adventure on the high seas. From practical gear to personal comfort items, we’ll help you pack smart so you can relax and enjoy every moment of your voyage. Dive into our guide and get ready for a hassle-free cruise experience, no matter where your travels take you.

Table of Contents

Essential Items for a Smooth Cruise Experience

When embarking on a cruise, there’s an array of essential items to take along that can potentially guarantee a smoother journey.

The basics:

Clothing and Shoes

This will depend on your personal style and preference of course. Are you someone who likes to dress to impress for every occasion, or someone who likes to travel light and wear basics and repurpose outfits?

If you enjoy dressing up, there are many occasions to dress for on a cruise. Here are some clothing packing tips to consider:

•   Casual Resort Attire – You will be on a cruise and relaxing while walking around and engaging in activities. Pack enough clothing to fit your needs and style.
• Formal Attire – On most cruise ships, there are scheduled elegant nights, which call for formal dinner attire. Many people even wear ball gowns for those occasions. Find out how many elegant nights are planned for your cruise and pack accordingly. Don’t forget the matching shoes, jewelry, bags and accessories!
• Event and Party Attire – Cruise lines have different parties offered on board. From the common white party to silent discos, 80s-themed parties, Halloween costume parties, and many other specific themes. A good place to find out about upcoming events on your specific cruise is to join a social media group on Facebook for your specific sailing.
• Excursion Outfits – this depends on what you are doing. Of course, outfits would be very different for example if you are going on a nature hike, versus a stroll in the city, vs snorkeling. Pack according to what you are interested in doing.
• Swimming – you will use those for the pools and hot tubs on deck, as well as for beaches and pools in some ports. Some will pack one swimsuit per day, while others will pack 1 to 2 for the entire trip. This again depends on your preference and style. Don’t forget flip-flops and/or water shoes for the beaches. Note that you do NOT need to pack towels as the cruise ship will provide room and pool towels, as well as beach towels you can borrow into port and then return.
• Plan for Weather – even when going to a tropical Carribean-type destination, it may still be cold at night. If you want to sit on deck and watch that movie at night, plan for layers or pack a sweatshirt or sweater.
• Gym Clothing – if you plan on walking the deck track, working out in the gym or taking any fitness classes, pack some workout clothing.
• Hats and Belts  -Lastly, remember to bring along items like hats and belts, as these items often get overlooked.
• Shoes – for comfort and walking, pool and beach going, and for formal wear.

Hygiene Products

Think of the regular hygiene products you would bring on any regular vacation and pack those. While there are stores on board that sell hygiene products, you have a limited selection and the items are more expensive. Here is a general list of hygiene products you may need.

• Shampoo, Conditioner, Body Wash – while they do provide shampoo and body wash in the bathrooms, some cruises do not offer conditioner and you will need that if you have long hair and go swimming in the pools or beaches. Many people prefer to bring their own shampoo and soap as well
• Hand Soap – many cruise ships only provide bar soaps for hand washing so if you like a pump soap, bring one along
• Body Lotions and Creams
• Perfume or Cologne
• Face Care – serums or creams and dont forget facial sunscreen
• Makeup – Think about special occasion makeup and daily makeup needs
• Makeup Remover – or wipes
• Feminine Hygiene products
• Sexual wellness products
• Hairbrush and any hair ties , headbands or berets.
• Hair Spray –  Your regular products and/or specific hair products to handle your post-ocean hair
• Vitamins and Medication – the ones you take regularly, plus any just-in-case medicine such as Tylenol or seasickness medication

Personal Favorite Items for an Enhanced Experience

Some items aren’t mandatory but can significantly enhance your overall cruise experience. Think of what you personally need, want or prefer.

Extra Charging Ports

First on the list is a non surge protecting power strip to ensure that your devices remain powered. Note cruise ships do NOT allow a surge protector. On a ship with limited outlets, this item can be particularly useful.

Waterproof Phone Case

Imagine being by the poolside and not worrying about your phone getting wet? A waterproof phone case is a lifesaver that allows you to enjoy water activities without the fear of damaging your phone.

Lanyard for Sign and Sail Card

Onboard, your sign and sail card are all you need for purchases. So, keeping it safe and handy is vital. Using a lanyard to carry it around avoids misplacing or losing the card.

Out in the open seas, the glare of the sun can be overbearing. A good pair of sunglasses not only protect your eyes but also add a layer of comfort.

Seasickness Bands or Dramamine

Seasickness can affect anyone, whether a first-timer or a seasoned sailor. Packing seasickness bands or Dramamine is an excellent preventative measure.

Medicine Case

Having a handy vitamin or medicine case filled with essential medications can be your savior, particularly for those on prescribed medications.

Timekeeping is crucial while cruising, especially when considering excursions. A wristwatch (preferably waterproof) is a must-have to stay punctual. If using your phone, dont forget to set it to cruise time, instead of port time.

First Aid Kit

Because accidents do happen, having a first aid kit at your disposal can be beneficial and offer immediate relief.

Water Shoes

When participating in water-based activities or even exploring the ship, water shoes provide additional comfort and prevent slipping.

Bathroom Fresheners

Cruise ship bathrooms may sometimes not smell as fresh as you’d like. Especially in an interior cabin where you dont have window ventilation. Bathroom fresheners can make the experience more pleasant.

Towel bands or clips

For your pool chair and towel stakes for the beach.

Waterproof Fanny Pack

A waterproof fanny pack is excellent for your ID and other little items, especially on shore excursions. Especially when around water, it helps keep your valuables dry and safe.

Travel Umbrella

Cruising is often filled with priceless moments worth capturing. A camera enables you to document these unforgettable memories.

a Vlogging camera or underwater camera such as a Go Pro will help you capture some of your adventures

If you take photography seriously, don’t forget to pack accessories such as a sturdy tripod. 

A beach bag or backpack is another handy accessory when heading to the beach on an island stop or if you plan to lay out by the pool.

Corkscrew for Wine

Swimsuit Cover-Up

A swimsuit cover-up is beneficial when moving around the ship or stopping for a quick meal during your day in the sun.

Foldable Backpack

This is perfect for carrying essentials during excursions off the ship. A small foldable clear backpack is light and easy to carry around.

Laundry Bags or Pop-up Hamper

A laundry bag or pop-up hamper keeps your cabin tidy by separating clean clothes from dirty ones.

Refillable Bottles or Tumblers

To stay hydrated and reduce single-use plastic, carrying refillable water bottles or tumblers is a great idea.

Portable Speakers

For your personal entertainment in your cabin or while lounging on the deck, portable speakers come in handy.

To ensure that your phone is always ready to capture those picture-perfect moments, it’s wise to carry a power bank for on-the-go charging.

Reusable Straws

Bringing your reusable straws means you’re not reliant on the often inferior paper straws provided on board. Also, some cruise lines such as Carnival give you only a sugar candy straw for alcoholic drinks. So if you want a regular straw, bring some.

Mini Packs of Lysol

For a clean and germ-free environment, carry mini packs of Lysol , perfect for quick cleaning in your room.

Wrinkle Spray

Because you cannot bring an iron onboard, pack a wrinkle spray for your garments. You can also use the onboard ironing rooms on the ship if you prefer that.

Snorkel Set

Electronics

Pack your laptops, e-book readers, tablets and other electronics you may want or need on board.

Cash for Tips

Keeping small bills handy for tipping crew members who provide excellent service makes for a pleasant cruising experience.

Phone Charger

To stay connected, you need to keep your phone charged consistently, and a phone charger is an essential gadget to have on board.

Necessary Identification Documents

Remember to pack your passport and driver’s license, as these are the primary documents required to get on board. Some cruise lines allow you to travel with your ID plus birth certificate, instead of a passport.

Conclusion: Packing Smart for a Hassle-Free Cruise Experience

In summary, preparing adequately by packing essential and personal favorite items can set the stage for a smooth, fun, and memorable cruise experience. Remember to pack with different scenarios in mind – the weather, on-board activities, and safety procedures. Smart and thoughtful packing can truly enhance your cruise experience, leading to a much more enjoyable and hassle-free journey!

What to Pack for Your First Contract on a Cruise Ship

• Post author: Xuxu
• Post category: Documents / Miscellaneous / Resources / Travel Tips

Are you ready to join life at sea working on a cruise ship? Cruise ship life is very exciting and visiting awesome locations around the world is just one of the many benefits of working on a cruise ship. If this is your first time going to work on a cruise ship, you might be wondering what you need to pack for a cruise ship contract.

I have created this post to help you get ready to join your first contract at sea, to minimize headaches and possible issues you might encounter during your first contract. These tips would have helped me tremendously if only I knew beforehand.

For additional tips, make sure you read What are the Requirements to Work on a Cruise Ship? (Step by Step) to learn more about the requirements/documents you need to have before you embark on your journey at sea!

For tips on how to have a more pleasant travel experience visit this post, Essential Travel Items Every Crew Member Should Have! to learn all the cool tips, tricks and gadget s you must have for your travel day.

Table of Contents

Getting Ready

Now that you have all the paperwork ready to go, there are a few more things that I highly recommend that you have ready before joining a cruise ship for your first contract, or for subsequent contracts if you are a returning crew member. These things will make your transition to life at sea easier.

 Once onboard, you won’t have a lot of time to go out and buy things you might need. Although you can buy items online and have it delivered to the ship, depending on your location, it might take weeks and sometimes, months before you get your package. To avoid all these hassles, I recommend having these items with you before embarking on your exciting journey at sea:

Collapsible Luggage

First things first, cruise ship cabins are very tiny. Space will be at a premium onboard and you want to make sure you have enough space for your items by not having big, bulky luggage is just the start. I recommend buying a piece of collapsible luggage that can be easily stored under the bed or in a small corner.

With its magical ability to shrink down to a fraction of its size, this wondrous invention effortlessly fits into your tiny cabin. Plus, it’s a travel ninja, discreetly blending in when you’re not using it.

Here are some suggestions for collapsible luggage you can find on Amazon:

Bring a Backpack

Not only you can use your backup as your carry-on luggage but you also will be able to use your backpack to carry all of your stuff when you get ashore to go to the beach or visit a port of call. You can carry your electronics in your backpack, cameras, towel, food and water, souvenirs, and much more. All serious travelers have a backpack and trust me, you will become a traveler.

I used this backpack Osprey Packs Daylite Plus Daypack ( link to Amazon ) because it’s small enough yet it fits everything I needed. I also used the Osprey Packs Packs Porter 65 Travel Backpack ( link to Amazon ) as my carry-on. The Osprey Daylite easily attaches to the Osprey 65 on a travel day, making it easy to carry it.

I always had my trusty backpack with me whenever I left the ship and I recommend that you have one too.

Bring Enough Socks and Underwear

Working on a cruise ship means you will not have a lot of time off and when you do, the last thing you want is to spend those precious few hours doing laundry. Although you can’t escape doing laundry, having a game plan to do less will make your life easier.

Uniforms will be provided to you and most companies will offer laundry service for your uniform- you just have to drop it off and pick it up. Now for your personal clothes, there’s no way out, you will have to do it yourself or pay someone to do it, which there are people onboard that do.

I was always running out of socks and clean underwear during my first contracts onboard and had to do laundry often. I usually recommend bringing as minimal as possible but underwear and socks are the exception. They are very small and won’t take up much space in your luggage. By having enough socks and underwear, you might be able to do less laundry than you would otherwise do. I recommend bringing enough underwear and socks for at least two weeks or 14 days since you will be working every day and might change clothes twice a day.

Don’t Bring Too Many Clothes!

As mentioned above, space is at a premium in a cruise ship crew cabin. For the majority of the time, you will be wearing your uniform. You will be wearing your personal clothes when you go off the ship or around the ship, like at the crew bar, mess, or around the public ship areas. The fewer clothes you bring, the more space you will have in your cabin closet, which is very tiny. 

I recommend the following, in no particular order:

• One or two nice outfits for going out at night onboard public areas.
• Plenty of socks/underwear to last two weeks, at minimum.
• Beach attire(don’t bother to bring a beach towel. You can buy one in the ports of call)
• Flip flops(for going off the ship) on your beach days.
• Closed-toed shoes for walking around the crew areas(Flip-flops are not allowed in crew areas).
• Comfortable non-slip safety shoes for work. Safety first!
• Travel-size toiletries for 1 week to get by until you can buy more.
• One light jacket for cooler weather.
• Comfortable clothes for walking around the ship (Typically tank tops are not allowed at the crew mess, so sleeves or a jacket).

Bring Comfortable Non-Slip Safety Shoes

Cruise Lines will require that you wear non-slip shoes (typically black, white, or both depending on the position) for the majority of the positions onboard, especially if you will be working in the kitchen or galley, where the floors can get very slippery. Although they can provide you with the shoes onboard (at a cost), you should take the time to look for ones that are comfortable. You will be spending the majority of your time on your feet and not having proper, comfortable shoes can make it worse.

Examples of safety shoes you can find on Amazon:

You can always get a second pair later but make sure you bring a good, comfortable pair with you.

Don’t Forget Your Medication

If you are currently taking prescription medication, make sure that you bring enough to last for the duration of your contract. You might not find the same prescription onboard so it’s important that you have it with you before joining the ship. 

Once onboard, the medical department will have an orientation with the new hires to explain how to use the facilities, and what’s covered, and they want to know if you are taking prescription medications as part of your onboard medical questionnaire. They do provide medication for free for certain cases (flu, sore throat, headaches, nausea) but they might not have, or be able to, get your exact prescription onboard. 

Also, keep in mind that you might not get used to the food on the ship at first, so having a good digestive/ stomach issues medication is also essential.

Bring Some Spending Money For Your First Month Onboard

On your first contract on a cruise ship, you will not get paid until the end of the month in most companies. If your contract starts at the end of the month, you won’t get paid until the end of the following month. Your crew ID will be your debit card onboard and you will be able to purchase some items onboard like internet cards, toiletries, drinks at the crew bar, and bottled water, but if you want to buy anything outside the ship, you will be out of luck.

I recommend that you bring some spending money so that you don’t spend your first month onboard broke without being able to do anything fun.

Only Bring the Essentials

Besides making sure you have all your paperwork ready ( visit Requirements to Work on a Cruise Ship ) there are many things you can buy onboard. Most cruise ships have a crew store where they sell toiletries, snacks, and some electronics like sd cards, batteries speakers, etc.  I recommend that you bring small toiletries to get by on your first week onboard. You might not know on your first day where the crew store is located and your crew card might not be activated yet to make purchases on the ship (sorry, no cash onboard). Bring travel-size toiletries like toothpaste, shampoo, etc that can get you by the first week until you have your account ready to buy some more later.

Bring a Laptop

All the places you will visit, all the photos you will take. You will need to have a place to store all of that. I highly recommend that you bring a laptop to have with you to access the internet when you get a chance, to download and edit your photos, play video games, or watch movies. 

Check out the link at Amazon for more info.

Offline Entertainment

We live in a world where we are used to being connected 24/7 to the internet and on a cruise ship, it can be a challenge. You will not have free internet available and the internet onboard is via satellite, so watching movies, and streaming videos is going to be hard or even impossible. Be prepared to expect not having internet access all the time. 

With that said, make sure that you have enough entertainment available offline (music, movies, games, e-books). When you visit a port of call, there will be many places that will offer free wifi, so bring your laptop, tablet, or phone and spend some time catching up with family and friends, updating your Instagram profile to make your friends jealous, getting new songs and movies downloaded for offline use, etc, but please don’t spend all your time surfing the internet. The world is waiting to be explored, so go ahead and enjoy the ports of call. 

Portable Harddrive

I always brought with me a small, portable hard drive to store all the photos and videos I made with my camera, phone, and GoPro. I also used the hard drive to store movies and documents that I might need later.

Check it out on Amazon

I currently have the Western Digital(above) and it’s small, fast, and reliable.

Portable Bluetooth Speaker

If you love music, you need to have a portable Bluetooth speaker. You can buy one online and have it delivered to the ship, however, it might take some time for you to get your device. To avoid being without music, bring one along that is small enough to fit in your suitcase. You will probably be visiting many nice beaches in the Caribbean and nothing better than having a speaker with you to crank up some good music and drink a beer while people-watching on the beach.

You can find a great selection of Bluetooth speakers on Amazon, for every size and budget:

Bring a GoPro

If you want to make great videos, having a GoPro is a Must. you can make high-quality videos of all the cool places you will visit, like this one from Virgin Gorda and The Baths .

Find a GoPro and cool accessories on Amazon:

Power Adaptors

Cruise Ships are mostly built in Europe, therefore have European outlets. If you bring your electronics with you on the ship, chances are that you might not be able to use them if you don’t have adapters for all your devices. Make sure to have at least one with you to plug in your devices.

Having a universal adapter, ( like the one pictured below in black) , is the best because it works in different countries. The plug on the right (white) is what the cruise ship plug will look like.

You can buy these online on Amazon or locally when you get to a port but to be on the safe side, get one before you leave for the ship.

Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones

I highly recommend having noise-canceling headphones that you can wear whenever you need some quiet time onboard. Perhaps your roommate wants to watch some TV and you want to read a book, put these babies on, turn on the noise-canceling feature and you are in your own little world. Also, they are great to have when flying because it blocks the loud sounds emitted by airplane engines.

Get these on Amazon

Chances are that during your time at sea, you might encounter a roommate who snores. There’s nothing they can do and neither can you to make him or her stop snoring, however, you can try to minimize the noise by having earplugs if you need them. These might come in handy when you need it the most.

Signup for Frequent Flyer Miles

If you haven’t already make sure you signed up for one. With all the traveling you will be doing to and from the ship and during your vacation, if you choose to do so, if you are not collecting the frequent flyer miles, you are leaving money on the table. 

I had the opportunity to accumulate a decent amount of frequent flyer miles during my time working on cruise ships and I still do as of this day. I used to travel extensively during my vacations and even flew in business class a few times, all using frequent flyer miles.

All you have to do is to sign up for one airline from the airline’s alliance. Ex: If you are flying United Airlines to Miami, United Airlines is part of the Star Alliance network. Next time you fly on one of the airlines on the Star Alliance network , you don’t need to create another account with that airline; You can just choose to credit the miles to your United Airlines account because United Airlines is part of the Star Alliance. 

You can learn more by visiting my favorite travel blogs that teach you how to maximize your airline miles:

Final Words

Working on a cruise ship can be very challenging during your first month onboard. Everything is new, you are adjusting to life at sea, your small cabin, and the ship’s food. Take some time to make sure you are prepared, read our previous articles about working on ships, and know what to expect. 

If you follow our tips above and know what to expect, I have no doubt that you will have a great time working on a cruise ship. 

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What to Pack When Working on a Cruise Ship

If you’ve finally secured your first ship contract, congrats! Now you’re probably wondering what to pack when working on a cruise ship .

After getting a job on cruise ships and working onboard for a little over three years across six ships, I’ve put together this crew packing list for first-timers to help out any new seafarers looking for a bit of advice.

A general preface before I get started: remember to take into account what your onboard position is and what your own requirements are.

Be sure to ask your recruiter or hiring partner if you’re not sure about something because they will have more insight specific for your position than some random crew member writing on the internet.

(My job onboard was a youth staff/counselor aka underpaid babysitter to 1500 kids and all-around clown on puppet strings if anyone is wondering.)

Related: What Working on Cruise Ships is Really Like

How Much Should I Pack for My First Contract?

Let’s start with the most basic questions that typically come up when determining what to pack for working on a cruise ship:

• How much should I pack?
• What’s my luggage weight allowance?
• How much do crew members usually pack?
• What size of luggage will fit into my cabin?

I got you, fam

There are a good number of crew members who bring two large suitcases, but I think that’s a bit excessive and not so much fun when you have an over-packer for a roommate.

But in general, the average that people bring, and what I’d recommend is one large bag (50 lbs/ 23kg check-in limit), one smaller bag (carry-on size), and a backpack (carry-on personal item).

Keep in mind that where you fly to for the beginning of your contract may not be the same destination you’ll be flying out of to return home and this may incur additional baggage fees not covered by your company should you pack any more than I suggested.

For example: even if you get extra baggage allowance since you’re flying from the US to Europe to embark, you might be on a domestic flight home after the ship has crossed to the States, thus saddling you with excess baggage fees.

Just something to think about.

What Type of Luggage is Best for Working on Ships?

The most ideal luggage would be something collapsable like a duffel bag with wheels or ones that can nest within each other for optimal space-saving. 

I highly DO NOT recommend hard case suitcases (the ones pictured above) as I’ve seen nearly every roommate of mine struggle to squeeze them under the bed.

Because they don’t squish down like soft-shell suitcases, sometimes the only place to store them is beside a wall in the cabin, taking up precious real estate.

Nonetheless, many crew members do opt for plastic suitcases due to its durability.

If you absolutely must bring a hard-shell suitcase (maybe it’s the only one you have, in which case I wouldn’t suggest spending extra money on getting another one just for this contract), a pro-tip when it comes to storing it in your room is to open it up completely like a book and put it under the bed unzipped.

It’s not the most ideal way to store it, but at least it’s out of sight and your roommate won’t hate you for taking up extra space in the cabin.

What to Pack in Your Carry-On

AKA: the most important things you absolutely cannot board your ship and start your contract without.

Chances are you will be traveling many hours over several flights to reach your ship. And while I hope for nothing but the best for you and your belongings, statistically speaking, there’s a good chance some of your stuff will get lost.

I’ve seen this happen to more than a few crew members, where they have to embark with literally nothing other than what they have on their backs.

One couple I know went a month without their luggage.

I always travel with a few extra pairs of underwear in my carry-on personal item (not even the carry-on luggage) because on nearly every flight I’ve taken in the last few years, I’ve been asked to check in my small carry-on suitcase due to running out of overhead bin space.

Us crew members or the crew store can always help provide extra shampoo or deodorant if your things don’t end up on the ship with you, but underwear and medication are a little different.

TL;DR: make sure you pack these things on your person, literally on your back, in your personal items bag (preferably a backpack ), and never EVER check in these items:

• Seaman’s book (if applicable)
• Letter of Employment
• Medical clearance/ certificate
• Safety certifications (STCW)
• Itinerary (flight info, pick up info, hotel details)
• Phone number for your transit point of contact
• A few pairs of underwear and socks
• One pair of your uniform
• Cash/cards (enough cash for at least 2 weeks onboard and in ports)
• Any expensive electronics

TIP: Take a picture of all your documents as well as your luggage and save it in a cloud account so you always have access to these things should they go missing.

Essential Things to Pack

TIP: Packing cubes make packing so much easier. I use them to separate my clothes and label them (uniform, undies, etc.) so I never have to guess what’s where when I need it. This is especially helpful on your first day when you might not have much time to unpack and change for work.

Uniform (or Space For It)

If you’re a new hire, you may not get all of your uniform items until you get onboard.

In that case, save a good portion of your luggage space for it so that you can carry it home after your contract.

Your recruiter or hiring partner will have sent you a list of all other uniform clothing items you’ll need to bring, and unfortunately, this list will most likely be way more than you actually need.

Just keep in mind that the list they give you is generalized across the fleet and some ships make use of certain uniform items and others don’t.

It’s just something you have to suck up and accept as a newbie that you’ll be lugging around extra crap you won’t ever use in your first contract.

Underwear and Socks

Pack more than a week’s worth if you can. The more, the merrier.

Even if you’re the most disciplined, responsible human who always does laundry every week, sometimes it’s just not possible onboard.

From exhausting schedules to a limited number of washers and dryers, just because you want to do your laundry at a certain time doesn’t always mean you can.

Uniform Shoes

Repeat after me: comfort over style.

You’ll be in these shoes every day for 9-11 hours, 4-9 months straight.

If your feet aren’t happy, your body won’t be happy, you won’t be happy, and your guests won’t be happy.

Casual and/or Gym Shoes

Remember that space in your room and luggage is limited, so you’ll want a pair of shoes that can be used for more than one occasion (or just don’t go to the gym, that works too).

Formal Shoes

Depending on your rank, you may be allowed to be in the guest areas as long as you’re dressed in the appropriate attire.

(You can read more about that and all the other fun things about crew life here .)

But chances are, if you are allowed, formalwear will also be part of your uniform since you’ll probably have evening duties around the ship with guests.

TIP: Ladies, again, you don’t need several pairs of heels. Find one pair (closed-toe) that goes with all of your smart casual and formal clothing, typically in nude or black. 

Check your itinerary, but chances are you’ll be docking in beachy ports, probably in the Caribbean. If you plan on going to the beach, pack some sandals.

Smart Casual and Formal Clothes

As I noted earlier, if you work in the entertainment division or other front of the house departments, you may be required to bring along evening attire as part of your uniform. 

For Royal Caribbean, the evening attire for the last night of the cruise for crew on some ships was “all black,” so I made sure I always had this covered with either an all-black smart casual outfit or cocktail dress, both of which—again— could be worn for several occasions.

Here’s what I typically pack for this category:

• 1 pair of black slacks (jeans aren’t allowed in guest areas)
• 2 blouses (one of which was of course black)
• 1-2 cocktail dresses (one– you got it– in black)
• 1 floor-length gown

TIP: If your position is not activity host/cruise staff, I would only suggest you bring one formal gown as you most likely won’t be needing it often enough to warrant spending an extra $100+ on a second one.

With Royal, only the first formal night of the cruise required us to wear a dress past the knee. Cocktail dresses were allowed the following formal nights within the same cruise.

Personal Clothes

This category includes off-duty clothes, gym wear, and swim attire.

Look at your itinerary for the entirety of your contract and do a quick check on the weather you’ll be experiencing in those places at the time you’ll be visiting .

Then, pack accordingly.

Remember that you might start your contract in one season and finish in a completely different climate. Sometimes this can even happen within a single cruise.

Again, my rule is to pack items that can be worn with almost any other article of clothing I’m bringing.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed or unsure about how to limit the amount of clothing you plan on packing, a quick search on Pinterest for “ capsule wardrobes ” can be helpful.

Here’s an example of what and how much personal clothing I typically pack for a 5-month contract in the Caribbean:

• 1 white camisole (also used under some smart casual blouses that are a little sheer)
• 1 black tank top
• 3 t-shirts (one either black or white, one with minimal print/design, and one wildcard)
• 2 pairs of denim shorts (black and light blue)
• 1 set of pajamas
• 1 thin flannel shirt (used for layering or inside the AC-blasted ship)
• 1 pair of lounge pants (joggers or leggings)
• 2 gym tank tops
• 1 pair of gym shorts
• 1 pair of gym leggings
• 2 bikinis (that can– and have– served as emergency undies when I couldn’t get my laundry done)
• 1 sarong (can also be used as a towel, scarf, or picnic blanket)
• 1 windbreaker (used mostly in transit to and from foggy San Francisco)

Toiletries and Personal Care Items

Here are some basic toiletries you should ensure you have:

• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Shampoo and conditioner
• Soap/ body wash
• Lotion and moisturizer
• Gel/ hairspray (if you use it)
• Hairbrush/ comb

TIP: Pack small, travel-sized bottles of shampoo, conditioner, and lotions as they end up adding a few precious pounds to your luggage and you can buy the full-sized version of these items in most ports.

Keep it to a small pouch, and only the basics.

Remember that you probably won’t have the time or energy to be spending more than 10 minutes getting ready in the morning, so if you’re a makeup wearer, I’d recommend bringing just the essentials— whatever that may be for you.

While I typically don’t wear makeup at work around the kids (besides a quick swipe of concealer or foundation on my rosacea-prone cheeks), I did have a basic kit for looking presentable during evening duties around the ship.

These are the makeup essentials that I brought to every contract:

• 1 foundation
• 1 liquid concealer
• 1 color-correcting BB cream (for my red cheeks that also doubled as a primer)
• 1 red lip product
• 1 eyeshadow quad (black, gray, brown, taupe)
• 1 eyebrow pencil
• 1 black eyeliner
• 1 waterproof mascara (2 if I thought I’d need more as I use a specific brand not sold in drugstores that’s a miracle for my Asian, smudge-prone monolids)

If you’re looking for a more all-in-one solution, check out my favorite all-in-one palette .

This small travel-sized dryer goes with me everywhere and every roommate I’ve ever had has always asked to borrow it.

Even if you like drying your hair naturally, there will be times when you absolutely need to shower and wash your hair before heading to your next shift. (Coming back from the beach, for example.)

Wet hair at work is absolutely unacceptable and your manager may even write you up for showing up to work looking unprofessional.

Over-Door Hooks and S-Hooks

Space is limited and closets are small, so having extra places to hang your towel or clothes is every bit helpful.

I always bring two for my closet and one for the bathroom door.

S-hooks and over-door hooks can easily be purchased at any dollar store (I get mine at the Japanese $1.50 store Daiso) and don’t take up any luggage space.

Zippered Mesh Laundry Bags

I haven’t seen any other crew member use these bags , but I think they’re amazing and I always make sure to bring a few to every contract.

I normally use them for my undies, bras, and socks for three reasons:

• To make moving items from the washer to dryer easier and more efficient.
• To make sure I don’t accidentally lose a sock or those sports bra foam inserts randomly.
• **And this is the most important** To make sure other people aren’t touching my underwear.

It’s understood among crew that if you’re not there to move your clothes immediately to the dryer once the wash cycle is completed, any crew member next in line is allowed to move it for you.

Same with the dryer, except people will stop your drying cycle to see if it’s done and take it out since some people set the timer for over an hour when it’s not needed.

Period Products

I’m going to be real with you ladies.

Ships absolutely wrecked my hormones to the point where I have my period every other week onboard.

I’ve talked about this before about how ships affect everyone’s health differently, so there’s really no preparing or telling how it may (or may not) affect you.

I found that the best way for me to deal with this was by regulating my period through birth control and investing in a reusable menstrual cup to save money on tampons.

Again, find what works for you; but in my opinion, something that is reusable (i.e. menstrual cups or period panties ) is not only great for the environment, but also your wallet and luggage space.

You’ll likely have a roommate, and not getting good enough sleep due to your roommate’s snoring isn’t an excuse for poor work performance.

If the dimmest light wakes you, get yourself something to cover your eyes.

Ideally, you’ll be able to work out a compromise or agreement with your roommate as to how you’ll deal with entering the cabin and which lights are acceptable to use after the other person is in bed, but don’t bank on it.

I had one roommate request that I not use the bathroom (shower, toilet, or sink) after she’d gone to bed (which for her was like 10 p.m.) as she’s easily woken by any light or sound, to which I offered to help her find a sleep mask as most of my shifts ended well after midnight.

The air on ships destroyed my eyes.

With every ship contract, my eyes became drier, redder, and less tolerant of my contacts so much to the point where by my final contract I couldn’t wear them at all.

And upon seeing if laser correction could be an option, the doctors said they’d have to bring my eye’s health up first as it was some of the driest and worst they’d seen.

To paint a picture, it was as if I was looking out a very dirty window 24/7. Like extremely chapped lips, but on my cornea .

They recommended I use this eye gel (not regular drops) daily for a month and, my God, what a difference it made for me just using it alone.

Now I don’t go anywhere without it.

So if you’re worried about dry eyes on ships, planes, or even Antarctica (where I took my trusty eye gel drops) , get yourself a bottle or two of this miracle potion.

Your eyes will thank you.

Reusable Water Bottle

A reusable water bottle keeps you from having to purchase bottled water onboard. There are usually a few refill stations around the ship’s crew area to keep you hydrated.

Electronics

Laptop/ Tablet

You probably don’t need both, but assess your needs and decide for yourself.

I used my laptop primarily for watching movies and TV shows, although I also used it one contract just for the internet as the ship’s internet refused to connect with my phone for the entire five months.

Since I’m not a gamer and just need the basics out of a laptop that’s thin, lightweight, and travels well, I have a MacBook Air that has yet to fail me after four years and six ship contracts.

Tablets are obviously smaller and easier to pack, so if you have one that you use regularly, bring it.

External Hard Drive

Make sure you fill your hard drive with all your favorite movies, TV shows, and music while you have fast Wi-Fi at home.

You’ll be so grateful you did after the excitement of ships wears down within a few weeks onboard.

Also, it’s good to have an external hard drive to back up everything. Because things do— and probably will— go wrong, and you don’t want to risk it.

USB Memory Stick

A thumb drive with decent storage (I have a simple 8gb one I always carry) is great especially when you’re a new hire because you can get a digital copy of any work materials or extra information on your department’s system and review it at your leisure.

I found this to be helpful when learning about all the kids games we had to host as well as the dance routines we had to perform with the other entertainment staff during the cruise’s themed nights.

It’s also great for passing around movies and shows with other crew members without having to loan out your hard drive.

Alarm Clock or Watch

I use my phone as an alarm, but some prefer an alarm clock as phones have a tendency to screw up during time zone changes on ships, often leading to crew members being late (or early!) for work.

You can use your phone in crew areas, but once in guest areas (most likely where you work), phones are to be completely invisible.

So it’s a good idea to bring a watch along to make sure you’re always on time and performing your duties according to schedule.

TIP: Once onboard, make sure to sync all your electronics to ship time as that is the official time everything runs on regardless of the time on land or according to the internet.

You’ll be visiting some really beautiful places; make sure you document them properly!

Again, I’d recommend looking at your itinerary and judging from there what gear you’ll want to bring.

Keep in mind that professional DSLRs are great, but if you’re going to beachy destinations with the intent of being in the water most of the time, maybe leave the nice camera at home and bring a GoPro instead.

For my first and last contract, I looked up my itinerary and realized there were several destinations that would require a good amount of zoom to take a decent picture— so I lugged along my Canon EOS Rebel just for the handful of pictures I took (and don’t regret!).

I relied on my trusty phone’s amazing camera for the rest of my contracts, and as most phones go these days, they more than sufficed.

Universal Adapter

Most American-based cruise lines have American-style plugs onboard, but a universal adapter comes in handy if you’re traveling abroad to meet your ship.

Small Power Strip

Outlets in cabins are precious real estate, so be the hero in your room and bring a small power strip. One that has USB charging on it is especially helpful if you have several devices.

Just be sure to not overload your cabin outlets and remember to unplug your devices after they’re charged, even the power strip, as that’s a common fire starter on ships (and will fail both you and your roommate during cabin inspection).

Extension Cable or Chargers with Long Cords

Chances are, you’ll be on the top bunk for your first few months until your roommate moves out.

(Social protocol on ships is newbie get top bunk until the more senior roomie leaves.)

This means you’ll be farther away from the outlet.

If you’re like me and like to use your phone from the bed, I’d recommend looking into a charging cable that’s at least 6 ft. in length . 

Nonessential Items to Pack If You Have Room

AKA things that significantly enhance your contract and ship life.

There a quite a few items I’ve learned are essential for my comfort during contracts, but not really necessities.

They do, however, improve my life, attitude, and general pleasantness when I’m at sea for 5+ months at a time.

Again, these are just things I recommend, but take a look at my list and build/edit what you’ll actually bring according to your needs.

Hot Beverage Thermos

If you’re a tea or coffee drinker, this is pretty much a no brainer.

Collapsable Closet Organizer

You probably already know that crew cabins are small, so it should be no surprise that your wardrobe closet will be small as well. Most have 2-3 small drawers below a hanging area.

I’ve found that bringing a hanging shoe organizer like this allows me to easily store all my stuff without taking up too much of my closet.

Bonus points for being lightweight and travel-friendly.

Personal Bedding

While bed sheets, blankets, and pillowcases are provided for, there’s just something about having the familiarity and comfort of your own personal bedding.

Your bunk is the only personal space you have, so I like to make it as cozy and comfortable as possible even if it takes up some precious luggage space.

Even the cheapest of bed sheets and pillowcases will be miles more comfortable than the used ones they have for crew onboard.

I always bring a microplush blanket that easily packs down and doesn’t take up too much weight.

Vacuum Sealing Bags

Wondering how you’ll be able to pack these bulky items? Get yourself one or two of these large vacuum-sealed, space-saving bags .

I typically just use one for my blanket and I’m able to stuff my bedsheets into a packing cube.

Again, towels are provided, but I just prefer to bring my own.

I have this set of travel microfiber towels that rolls into a small, convenient pouch and takes up hardly any space at all.

And an added bonus is that since they’re so thin, they dry super quick so my room doesn’t end up with that damp, moldy towel smell.

Portable Mini Steamer

There are irons for you to use in the crew laundry, but if a lot of your clothes or uniforms require ironing, a mini steamer can do wonders.

Twinkle Lights

Make your cabin (or bunk) a cozy oasis.

These are usually small and easy to pack, but just make sure they’re battery-operated (the only ones allowed onboard for fire safety purposes).

Every cabin comes with two small lock boxes, but you’ll need to bring your own lock .

While this isn’t a problem so much anymore, in years past crew paychecks were actually given out in cash, so keeping it out of sticky roommate hands was more of an issue.

I’ve personally never had to lock anything away, but it can’t hurt. Especially since you won’t know your roommate before you move it.

Mini Speaker

A completely nonessential item, but portable speakers do make cabin parties and beach trips more fun.

In addition to the typical holiday festivities, crew parties are always happening. If you like dressing up and you have some extra room, bring a few of your best party costumes.

Comfort items

You’ll be away from family and friends for a long time.

It’s worth the extra luggage space to bring something that helps you relax and puts a smile on your face.

I like to bring a few hydrating face mask sheets and a small stuffed animal, but I’ve seen crew members bring snacks, photos, video games and consoles like the PS4 and Switch, and even a personal pillow.

Final Thoughts

And now that you know what to pack for working on a cruise ship, you’re ready to embark (literally and figuratively) on your new journey!

You might be feeling overwhelmed, but that’s totally normal.

As long as you pack the essentials and more or less try to stick to the packing tips I’ve laid out, you’ll be fine.

Happy contract and bon voyage!

Fellow crew members, is there anything else that should be on this list? Let me know so I can add it and help our eager new hires out!

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Michelle is a freelance writer who has traveled to all seven continents and 60+ countries through various forms of employment. Over the last ten years, she’s worked as an ESL teacher in Japan, a youth counselor aboard cruise ships, and a hospitality manager in Antarctica.

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I found this to be SUPER helpful! I start my contract with Royal Caribbean next weekend and this is a super helpful resource. I’ve been watching some YouTube videos and they just don’t quite have as much helpful information. THANK YOU!

You’re very welcome! So happy I could help and congrats on your first contract!!! I loved my time with RCL and I’m sure you will as well :)

I thought about bringing the menstrual cup with me, but, how do you keep it clean? Can you boil it somewhere?

I just used a gentle, fragrance-free soap with hot water and never ran into any issues. But there are portable menstrual cup sterilizers available that you could try out too.

This has really helped! I start on the Pacific Encounter on Wednesday(found out yesterday) and its my first contract. Super nervous but excited.

In regards to uniform, what shoes would you recommend? Also, if you’ve ever had to pay for visas, medicals etc, how quickly do they pay this back to you? They’ve jut said I will get it reimbursed on the ship.

Hi Charlotte,

Wow, how exciting– congrats on your contract!

Uniform shoes will depend on your position/requirements, which your recruiter should have informed you about. If you don’t have that info, I’d suggest getting in touch with them as every company and department differ. The same goes for reimbursements. It was fairly quick for me with Royal Caribbean (within a month), but this will vary by company.

Thanks for sharing. Helpful 🙂

Hello, Thank you for your information. Really very helpful ,found in time will help me what type of uniform should i carry for reception department as it is my 1st contract . Also for period is it safe & comfortable to use sanitary pads onboard?

Glad I could help! Great question. You can use any type of sanitary products that you’re most comfortable with. The crew store should have both tampons and pads available for purchase.

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29 Cruise Cabin Hacks Every Traveler MUST-KNOW

Taking a cruise is an adventure in and of itself. Although most cruises are intended to be a relaxing occasion, unpacking in a cabin can be slightly frustrating.

If you’ve ever taken a cruise, you know the cabins can be pretty cozy and compact, so you have to be smart about how you organize your belongings.

Although cabins can be rather snug, they tend to be laid out in a way that takes advantage of all the space available.

So to make the best use of the area, we have compiled some tried-and-tested cruise cabin hacks to take full advantage of every crevice, transforming even the smallest space into a neatly organized haven.

Table of Contents

Cruise Cabin Hacks

Bring Only What You Need

Before we even get to the cabin, the biggest ‘hack’ is packing only what you’ll need and use.

The cabin space is tight, tight, tight. You don’t want to bring more than you’ll need.

Go through your wardrobe ahead of time and select outfits that suit both day and nighttime activities on the ship. Remember to factor in any special theme nights or dress codes .

Put Your Luggage Underneath The Bed

The first thing you’ll want to d when you get into your cabin is unpack and slide your luggage under the bed. This not only clears floor space but also helps to keep your cabin tidy and accessible.

If you have a carry-on and a larger luggage, you can store one inside the other making even more room.

Request Extra Hangers

Once on board, reach out to your cabin steward for extra hangers. This will let you maximize closet space and avoid wrinkled clothes.

Some people like to bring their own hangers. Don’t do that! It’ll be highly inconvenient and there are plenty onboard to request extra.

Packing Cubes, Packing Cubes, Packing Cubes!

Packing cubes are not just a cruise hack, but a life hack!

They turn the chaos of packing into a neatly organized ballet of belongings, each item in its designated place. Packing cubes keep your belongings sorted and easy to find, transforming your suitcase into a model of efficiency.

Designating a color for each family member can simplify the process even further, making unpacking and finding what you need a breeze, even in the most compact cruise cabin.

Desk = Vanity

Truth be told, the bathrooms can be as small as the cabins itself. Convert the desk in your cabin into a personal vanity area by organizing your beauty supplies neatly in the drawers.

There truly just isn’t enough space in the bathroom and the desk makes the perfect spot for all your makeup and skincare products.

Bring A Power Strip

Bring along a non-surge-protected power strip approved for cruise ships to accommodate your electronic devices and keep them all charged.

This simple addition to your packing list ensures that you can keep cameras, phones, and tablets fully powered, ready to capture every moment of your adventure.

Unfortunately, the cruises I;ve gone on didn’t have many outlets and we’d have to argue over who gets to charge and when.

Pack a Portable Charger

On a similar wavelength, pack a portable charger to make sure tyu always have enough juice.

A portable charger ensures your devices stay powered up while you’re on the move around the ship or ashore. It’s a travel MUST.

Magnetic Hooks and Clips

Your cabin’s walls are metal, which makes magnets your new best friend. Hang items like shore excursion tickets or wet swimsuits.

Make sure you get some heavy-duty magnetic hooks to make sure they stay on. This clever hack not only keeps your essentials within easy reach but also helps maintain a clutter-free and organized cabin.

Get An Over-The-Door Organizer

Using an over-the-door organizer in your bathroom can significantly maximize your space, offering a clever solution for the often cramped quarters.

Slip one over your bathroom door to store toiletries, keeping them off limited counter space.

Bring Air Freshener For The Bathroom

Bringing a small air freshener for the bathroom is a simple yet effective way to maintain a fresh and pleasant atmosphere in your compact cabin space.

Cruise ship bathrooms are notorious for being tight and lacking ventilation, so a discreet air freshener can make all the difference, keeping your personal retreat smelling clean and inviting throughout your voyage.

Whether it’s a spray, a plug-in, or a hanging freshener, this small addition makes a huge difference.

Packable Shelves And Hampers

Investing in packable shelves and hampers can revolutionize the way you organize and maintain your cruise cabin.

These ingenious items unfold to provide extra shelving for clothes and a designated spot for laundry, helping keep your living space tidy and sorted.

When not in use, they collapse flat, taking up minimal suitcase space. This hack is perfect for those looking to maintain a sense of order and cleanliness in their cozy sea-bound home.

Get A Motion Sensor Nightlight

Purchasing a motion sensor nightlight is a smart move for navigating your cabin in the dark.

These handy devices provide a soft, guiding light that automatically illuminates when you move, ensuring safe and gentle passage during late-night ventures.

It’s a small, thoughtful addition that enhances safety and comfort, allowing you to find your way without disturbing the peaceful ambiance of your stateroom.

Organize Your Papers

Maintaining a single, organized spot for all your essential documents, like excursion tickets, passports, and boarding passes, is crucial for a stress-free cruise experience.

Consider using a dedicated envelope or a travel document organizer where each vital paper has its place.

This method ensures that everything you need is readily accessible and secure, saving you from frantic searches and giving you more time to enjoy the adventures ahead.

Mesh Laundry Bags

Mesh laundry bags are perfect for keeping worn garments separate from the clean ones, simplifying the task of laundry once back home.

By designating these breathable bags for your used garments, you prevent the mix-up of clean and dirty items, making it easier to keep your living space organized and odor-free.

Once you return home, the task of doing laundry becomes a breeze, as you can directly transfer the contents of the bag into the wash

Utilize Shower Clips

Cabin showers are typically compact, and shower curtains can stick to you. Bring a few clothespins or magnetic clips to keep the shower curtain in place.

This simple hack enhances your shower experience, keeping the curtain contained and your bathroom floor dry.

Door Shoe Organizer for Snacks

Transform a clear shoe organizer into a snack station by hanging it over a door or on a wall. Fill it with your favorite treats, granola bars, or small packaged items.

This not only keeps your snacks organized but also saves precious drawer and counter space.

Suction Cup Baskets

Bring along a few suction cup baskets or caddies.

These can stick to the walls of your shower or bathroom, providing extra space to hold your toiletries, shower gels, and shampoos, keeping them within easy reach and off limited surfaces.

Curtain Rings for Scarves and Belts

Pack a few plastic curtain rings. They’re lightweight and can be used to hang scarves, belts, or even hats on closet rods or hooks, keeping them untangled and easy to access.

Dryer Sheets

Tuck a few dryer sheets in between your clothes and in your suitcase to keep everything smelling fresh throughout your journey.

They can also help reduce static and can be used to freshen up your cabin’s drawers and closet.

Clip-On Reading Light

If your cabin’s lighting is limited or you don’t want to disturb your roommate, a clip-on reading light can be a game-changer.

It provides just enough light for you to read or navigate the cabin without waking others.

Foldable Water Bottle

When cruising, every bit of space counts, making a collapsible water bottle an essential item for savvy travelers.

These innovative bottles are designed to shrink down to a fraction of their full size when not in use, easily fitting into a small purse, pocket, or compartment in your daypack.

This means more room for other essentials and souvenirs without the bulk of a traditional bottle.

Travel-Sized Humidifier

A travel-sized humidifier is an excellent solution for maintaining a comfortable cabin atmosphere, especially in the often dry environment of a cruise ship.

These compact devices are designed with portability in mind, easily fitting into your luggage without taking up much space.

Many models are ingeniously engineered to work with standard water bottles or have their own small reservoirs, making them convenient to set up and use.

Silk Sleeping Bag Line

A silk sleeping bag liner is a luxurious yet practical addition to your cruise cabin essentials.

This sleek, smooth material is known for its hypoallergenic properties and gentle touch on the skin, providing an extra layer of cleanliness and comfort.

Silk is also thermoregulating, keeping you cool in tropical climates and warm during cooler nights at sea, ensuring a restful sleep regardless of the destination.

Pack A Mini Electric Fan

A small, portable fan can improve air circulation and provide white noise if you’re a light sleeper. This is particularly helpful in inside cabins where air can feel stagnant.

Most travel fans are lightweight and compact, designed to fit easily into your luggage without taking up much space.

Highlighters for Daily Schedules

Bringing a set of different colored highlighters on your cruise is a small but strategic way to organize and enhance your onboard experience.

Cruise ships often provide a daily schedule of activities. Bring a few different colored highlighters to mark activities each family member is interested in.

Cord Organizer

In today’s digital age, you’re likely traveling with a variety of electronic devices, each with its own cords and chargers.

Keep your electronic cords and chargers tidy with a travel cord organizer. This prevents tangling and makes it easy to find what you need without rummaging through your bags.

Download All Your Entertainment Beforehand

Before embarking, download movies, books, or podcasts to your device.

While many ships offer entertainment, having your favorites on hand is perfect for downtime or while relaxing in your cabin.

Not to mention, the internet packages can get pricey onboard!

Glow-in-the-Dark Tape

Place a small piece of glow-in-the-dark tape on key items like your phone, light switches, or bathroom door.

It makes them easy to locate in a dark, unfamiliar room without turning on the lights.

Peppermint Oil or Ginger Candies

A small bottle of peppermint oil can do wonders.

It’s refreshing, can help alleviate seasickness , and a dab under your nose can mask less pleasant odors in tight quarters.

Another great way to avoid seasickness are with ginger candies. These ginger chews in particular have been a lifesaver for me when nausea hits!

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50+ Must-have Cruise Essentials from Amazon in 2024

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If you’re cruising in the near future, you may be creating a list of Amazon cruise essentials to bring on your cruise. These cruise accessories and travel gadgets can be really useful for space-saving and more!

Cruising is the type of travel experience, where you want to be prepared with everything you need in advance. I’ve learned from experience, if you think you might need it, you better bring it from home. 

In this post, I share some of the most useful things to bring on a cruise, from things that help with packing for a cruise to genius items that will organize your cruise cabin space.

In addition, I’ll include a few items you may not have thought of bringing on a cruise, but really should be on your cruise packing list ! You may even have some of these things at home already.

Cruise Essentials Packing List – Amazon Must-haves

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Amazon Prime comes with many benefits, including faster, free delivery, movies and TV shows (Prime TV) and even borrowing Kindle books. If you don’t already have Amazon Prime, check out the FREE 30 day trial .

Here are some of Amazon’s most popular cruise travel essentials and accessories that pro cruisers swear by!

Before we get started, you might be wondering if you need all 50 items on this list. Of course, you’ll want to pick and choose. Not every travel item needs to be packed for every cruise!

However, the items that are included, are some of the most popular and well reviewed cruise essentials sold on Amazon.

As well, this post has been updated to include some new cruising essentials for 2024.

Many of these items are things that I bring and use on my own cruises. I’ve included a couple YouTube videos below, if you’d like to see the items and have more information.

Recommended Cruise Accessories to Pack for a Cruise

These items are useful to organize your cruise stateroom , for packing and to use onboard your cruise ship.

1. Cruise Approved Power Bar

It’s surprising, but most cruise ship cabins have only 1 or 2 electric plugs. If you’re bringing electronic items like phones, pads, speakers, go-pros and anything else, you’ll really want more plugs, and even USB’s.

Very important – Cruise lines don’t allow you to bring a regular surge-protected power bar from home (they will confiscate). It’s very important to have a non-surge protected one that is “cruise approved” .

2. Non-Surge Power Cubes with USB-C

A new cruise accessory I’ve found is smaller travel size power cube which includes a USB-C plug.

Recommended: No-surge power bar cube with 6 outlets (check 5* amazon reviews)

3. Over the Door Hanging Organizer 

Cruisers are masters at using small cruise cabin space efficiently . An over the door organizer is very practical to store items you and your family will use often. You can hang this on your bathroom door or even use magnet hooks to hang on a cabin wall.

Pro tip: Pack your over the door organizer at home and place it in your suitcase, ready to hang. It will save so much time on your embarkation day .

4. Magnetic Cabin Hooks

One of the best ways to add storage space to your cruise stateroom is to use magnet hooks to hang backpacks, sunhats and bathing suits to dry. Cruise cabin walls are metal, so using magnets is an awesome cruise cabin hack !

Recommended: 6 pack Magnetic Hooks (these are “heavy duty”)

5. Magnetic Clips

Another cruise essential that really won’t be on other types of travel packing lists, are magnetic wall clips . Funny but cool cruise fact – cruise cabin walls are metal.

Why bring magnet clips? On a cruise, you’ll have some paper cruise planners, shore excursion tickets, and invitations to events on your cruise that tend to clutter up your desk and counter space. Use some magnetic clips to hang these items on the wall.

Recommended: Magnetic clips (see 4.5* Amazon reviews)

6. Cruise Luggage Tag Holders

Plastic reusable luggage tags holders are so practical. If you get nothing else, buy luggage tag holders ! Not only are they reasonably priced, but they can be reused again and again.

Cruise Line Luggage Tag Holders

• Royal Caribbean
• Holland America
• MSC Cruises

7. Packing Cubes

It’s official. I’m a packing cube convert. While I wrote a blog post about the pros and cons of packing cubes , the fact is, there are very few cons.

In fact, I’ve now found even more cruise packing hacks and ways to use packing cubes to keep organized on my cruise. I recommend getting at least 2 packs of these packing cubes , with the various sizes, in different colors. This way you can have cubes for each member of the family.

Recommended: 5 star rated Packing Cubes

Read more:   The Pros and Cons of Packing Cubes for Cruise Vacations

8. Luggage Set with Spinner Wheels

If you’re anything like me, you might be due for some new luggage. Make sure it’s lightweight and has 4 spinner wheels so that it’s easy to board your cruise ship and disembark (even if you do self-disembarkation).

Recently, I got new hard side luggage and I’m loving it!

Pro tip – If you have a neutral or common color suitcase, like black, blue or grey, make sure to tie some colored yarn or ribbon around a handle so that it stands out and you can find it easily at the airport or cruise terminal.

Recommended : 2 Piece Luggage Set (check price & reviews on Amazon here)

9. Portable Luggage Scale

Make sure to bring along a portable digital luggage scale when you’re flying to and from your cruise. This handheld digital scale includes batteries and is a customer favorite.

Recommended:   Handheld digital luggage scale (see product details & Amazon reviews here)

10. Lanyard and Keycard Holder

Cruise lanyards are one of the most popular cruise essentials. If you want to stay hands free or keep organized, putting your cruise key card in a plastic water-proof lanyard is super practical both on the cruise and as you get off the ship at a cruise port.

Recommended: Cruise Lanyard and Cruise Card Holder (waterproof)

11. Cruise Card Holder Phone Pouch

This new cruise accessory, a cruise card holder , is now my husband’s favorite! He used this to hold his cruise key card on our last cruise, and has raved about it ever since.

Recommended: Cruise car holder phone pouch wallet (stays on cell phone case)

12. Refillable (and collapsible) Water Bottles

I love these space-saving roll-able and collapsible water bottles . While obviously convenient on the cruise ship, more than that I love how they don’t take room in my luggage or beach bag when not being used.

13. Insulated Tumbler Travel Mug

14. Towel Clips

It’s very hard for me to hold in my enthusiasm for pool and beach towel clips . The ship is so breezy and towels would never stay put for me. It used to drive me crazy as I would try to read or relax.

This is honestly an item I’m so happy we bring on our cruises! We bought some towel clips with different styles (flamingo, margaritas, flip flops) and they’re adorable!

15. Adjustable Towel Bands for Beach Chairs

Some cruisers prefer towel bands to clips, as they’re easier to pack and take up less room. I love these, as they are adjustable and have a convenient clip cruisers are loving.

Recommended: Towel bands with clips

16. Poo-Pourri Bathroom Spray

Poo-Pourri bathroom spray is a cruising essential that may not be talked about much, but it works. Cruise cabins and bathrooms are small, and the space is tight. A useful bathroom hack is to spray a little Poo-Pourri before you go. 

17. Cabin Alarm Clock

If you like to know the time during the night or don’t want to rely on your cell phone, consider a simple travel battery operated clock . A lot of cruisers swear this is one of their favorite cruise accessories.

18. Motion Sensor Nightlight

This portable nightlight gets great reviews by cruisers and is one of the best-selling Amazon cruise accessories.

If you’re in an inside cabin especially, it will be pitch black. So having a touch of light for when someone has to go to the bathroom in the middle of the night will be appreciated!

19. Portable Fan

If you’re someone who finds that small spaces can get hot and stuffy, consider bringing a small fan  to make your cabin more comfortable. I like this one as it’s battery operated, but rechargeable  – plus it’s quiet.

20. Ladies Carry-on Bag

I love the size and practicality of his weekender style carry-on bag . It’s perfect to carry over your shoulder, but also fits right over the handles of your luggage.

Recommended: Carry-on bag with nautical stripe (see details & style options on Amazon here)

21. Hanging Toiletry Bag

These hanging toiletry bags are so practical to keep you organized in a tight cruise cabin bathroom, so it makes sense that this is quickly becoming one of the popular items to bring on a cruise.

This one in particular is my favorite and has over 35,000 5* reviews (you can see it in my video at the bottom of this post).

Recommended: Hanging toiletry/cosmestic bag (different colors available – read 35,000+ 5 star reviews)

22. Travel Laundry Hamper (pop up mesh)

Recommended: Travel laundry hamper (check price and see Amazon reviews here)

Related:  Do Cruise Ships Provide Irons and Ironing Boards to Guests?

23. Downy Wrinkle Release Spray

Make sure to bring along a travel size Downy Wrinkle Release spray to get any wrinkles out of your cruise wear .

Recommended: Downy Wrinkle Release Spray (travel size available on Amazon)

Read more:   How to Pack Wrinkle Free for a Cruise

24. Tide to Go Stain Remover Stick

Tide to Go instant stain remover sticks will save your cruise outfits! Make sure to pack one or more for your cruise.

Recommended: Tide To Go stain remover stick (verify price on Amazon)

25. Jewelry Organizer Travel Bag

If you like to pack jewelry for your cruise, this jewelry organizer bag keeps necklaces, earrings, rings, bracelets separated so they won’t tangle. The clear pouches make it a cruise essential favorite! 

I have the small size, and find it perfect, however it’s available in 3 different sizes so it can suit your needs.

Cruise Shore Excursion Must-haves

26. beach bag.

I love a good beach bag on a cruise. You can use this one as a carry on bag on embarkation day , as well as on shore excursions .

This one is large with a zipper closure, and looks great too.

Recommended: Beach Bag (see price & different colors on Amazon here)

27. Mesh Tote Bag

This mesh tote bag is one of my favorite cruise essentials. I love to use it to keep my sunscreen, book and other items both on the cruise ship and off.

Recommended: Mesh tote bag (check price & 5000+ Amazon reviews here)

28. Trendy Knit Beach Bag

This stylish knit beach bag is super cute for the lido deck or to use in cruise ports of call.

Recommended: Large mesh knit beach bag (3 colors – check excellent reviews)

29. Magnetic Sunhat Clip

One of the best inventions ever is the magnetic hat clip ! Never lose or squish your sunhat again.

Recommended: Magnetic hat clip (check price & different colors on Amazon)

This wide brim beach hat is great for Bahamas, Caribbean or even Mediterranean cruises!

Recommended: Wide brim sun hat (see over 13,000 Amazon reviews here)

31. Waterproof Drybag

If you plan on doing any kayaking or other water excursions, you’ll get good use out of this waterproof drybag .

32. Portable Lock Bo x

This portable lock box safe is great for placing your id, phones, cash and other valuables and keeping them secure while on an excursion.

Recommended:     Portable lock box for beach and pool

33. Water Shoes

Water shoes will be useful if you’re going to a rocky beach or an excursion where water shoes are recommended. We made the mistake several years ago of going to Dunn’s River Falls, Jamaica and needing to buy the shoes on site.

In fact on a recent cruise, we brought some new water shoes for an excursion to Virgin Gorda. These were awesome, and I’ll be bringing my water shoes on all future Caribbean cruises !

34. Snorkel and Mask

If you’re going to be snorkeling more than once, it really pays to buy your own snorkel gear. These are two Amazon cruise items that are both recommended, but really depend on your preferences.

Check out the Amazon review for this full face mask style snorkel set (to see why people are loving it).

Recommended: Snorkel Set with Snorkel full face MASK and swim fins (check price & over 5000 4.5* Amazon reviews)

This snorkel set is more traditional, but also very popular with cruisers.

35. Reef Safe Sunscreen

If you’re going on a Caribbean cruise , it’s really important to pack reef friendly sunscreen , as this is safer for the coral reefs. Many Caribbean islands (such as St. Thomas), have laws against using chemical sunscreen, and can issue fines.

It’s best bring the reef friendly sunscreen from home, as it will be less expensive than buying it on site.

Recommended: Reef friendly sunscreen (see price & Amazon reviews here)

36. Aloe Vera After-Sun Gel

Always be prepared in case you get too much sun. A good quality pure aloe vera gel will actually be able to be worn under your clothes, as it won’t be sticky like some gels with fillers.

Recommended: Pure Aloe Vera Gel (see over 60,000 reviews on Amazon)

37. Lip Balm with SPF

So many people forget to bring lip balm with SPF on a cruise. However, if your lips swell up like you had bad lip injections, you’ll regret not packing lip balm (ideally in your cruise carry on bag ).

Get The Ultimate Cruise Planner

Regular price: $27 now just $17.

Tech Items & Electronics Accessories to Bring on a Cruise

38. portable phone charger.

one While a cruise power bar might be the most important tech item to have on a cruise , a portable phone charger is super practical.

We used this one on our last cruise to charge two phones at a time! It was awesome and long lasting!

39 . IWalk Portable Phone Charger

Convenient on the go Iwalk portable chargers are great when traveling! I always have one in my purse, even for everyday use.

Recommended: Iwalk phone charger (check price & amazon reviews here)

40. Waterproof Phone Case

These waterproof phone cases with lanyards are great to keep your phone dry, and keep the sand out when you’re at the beach. I love these in particular as these also have a touch screen (so important when cruising and traveling).

Recommended: Waterproof Phone Case with Cruise Lanyards

41. Electronics Organizer Case

Stay organized by keeping your chargers, cables and plugs, and phone accessories together in one electronics bag. I love the Bagmart products – they are well made and sections are well thought out.

Recommended: Electronics organizer bag (see color options)

42. Apple Airtags

If you are taking a flight to your cruise, get a set of Apple AirTags (if you have an iphone). If not, a tile or another similar product can work well for you.

Recommended : Apple AirTags (check price & 40,000+ 5* Amazon reviews)

43. Folding Travel Mirror LED

A best seller, this folding travel mirror ia a favorite Amazon find.

Recommended: Folding LED travel mirror (see price & almost 5000 reviews on Amazon)

These days, many cruise travelers are leaving their books at home and opting for a space saving Kindle. When we asked cruisers for their top cruise must-haves, the Kindle made the top 10!

Recommended: Kindle Paperwhite (check price & over 20,000 4.5* reviews on Amazon here)

45. Sunrise Alarm Clock

A cruise essential that’s gaining popularity this year is the sunrise alarm clock . This is one of the most useful cruise accessories for anyone cruising in a windowless inside cabin .

Recommended: Sunrise alarm clock

Wellness Items to Pack for a Cruise

46 . cruise first-aid kit.

Having a travel first aid kit is one of the most important things you can pack for your cruise. Whether you use this one below, or put together your own, do make sure you bring the medications and general first-aid items with you on your cruise.

Recommended: Cruisepaks Cruise Essentials First Aid Travel Kit – 150 Pieces

47. Seabands

If you’re worried about getting seasick on a cruise , Seabands are a great, natural product that many frequent cruisers love.

Recommended: Seabands (available for adults and children)

48. Bonine Motion Sickness Tablets

Please don’t make this common first time cruiser mistake. Even if you’ve cruised before, you can still be affected by the “motion of the ocean”. Bonine really works well for my husband and I, without drowsy side effects.

Recommended: Bonine seasickness tablets 

Read more: Cruise Toiletries Packing List

49. Ginger Candies

Ginger candies are a natural remedy for motion sickness. If you have a touch of queasiness on a cruise, a ginger tummydrop can really help.

Recommended: Ginger candies (organic)

50. Disinfecting Wipes for Travel

It’s a good idea to bring disinfecting wipes for your travels – in the airplane or even for the car ride if you’re driving to the cruise ship.

Once on the ship, you may find having these healthy cruise essentials useful as well.

Recommended: Disinfecting wipes (check reviews on Amazon)

51. Liquid IV

Liquid IV hydration multiplier and immune support is on the cruise packing list of many! It’s easy to get dehydrated and even a little worn down during a cruise, from the sun and fun ;-).

Liquid IV is a good item to have handy just in case.

Recommended: Liquid IV (see variety of flavors on Amazon here)

Cruise Items You Didn’t Know You Needed

52. binoculars.

If you’re cruising to Alaska , bringing a set of binoculars is a must! Whether on the cruise ship or on a whale watching tour , travel binoculars should be on your Alaska cruise packing list .

However, we’ve cruised in the Caribbean and have actually seen whales and even dolphins a couple of times from afar. Of course flying fish are more common – but there’s a lot you can see and appreciate sitting at a quiet spot on deck or on your balcony with your binoculars.

53. Travel Corkscrew

Are you bringing wine bottles on your cruise ? If so, make sure to pack a small affordable travel corkscrew to bring on your cruise vacation.

Recommended: Small travel corkscrew (see Amazon reviews)

54. Stainless Steel straws

In an attempt to use less plastic, most cruise lines have eliminated plastic straws on board. This means that either the drinks are served “strawless”, or you may get a paper straw.

If you think a soggy paper straw will bother you, consider bringing along a set of your own reusable straws .

Recommended:   Stainless Steel Reusable straws (this one has over 50000 5* reviews – Amazon)

55. Highlighter and post its

Bringing simple items from home like a highlighter and post it’s can be useful. You can leave notes for your cabin steward or highlight activities on your cruise planner.

56. Cruise Staff  Thank-you Cards

Recommended: Cruise staff thank you cards 

Video: The Most Popular Cruise Essentials Cruisers Love

57. Extra Reading Glasses

If you wear reading glasses, make sure to bring along an extra pair , in case they break or get lost.

Recommended: Reading glasses (set including blue light)

58. Emergency Dental Repair Kit

I’ve actually heard this tip from another cruiser, who pointed out that there aren’t any dentists on board a cruise, and how handy an emergency dental repair kit could be.

Recommended: Temporary dental repair kit 

59. Convertible Garment Duffel

If you’re packing a suit and/or cocktail dress for your cruise, the best way to pack them, wrinkle-free for a cruise , is by using a garment bag. This convertible duffle style garment bag is perfect!

Recommended: convertible duffle style garment bag ( see pricing & Amazon reviews here)

60. Travel Hairdryer

The hairdryers in cruise ship cabins aren’t very powerful. This small travel hairdryer was recommended to me by my hairdresser. It’s the best travel hairdryer I’ve ever had!

Recommended: BaByLiss travel hairdryer

61. Water Bottle Tote Pouch

For the cruiser who has every cruise accessory, this is something new. How convenient is this water bottle tote pouch ? Finally, a place to put that refillable water bottle while walking around on the cruise ship on a sea day , or even on an excursion.

Recommended:   Water bottle tote pouch (verify pricing on Amazon)

YouTube video: 30 Amazon Cruise Essentials (and new finds!)

Recap: 50+ Must-have Cruise Essentials from Amazon

These are the some of the most popular and best-selling cruise essentials that cruisers buy for their cruise. I hope this has been helpful as you plan and prepare for your cruise.

While you may not need all the items, consider which cruise gadgets and accessories would make things most convenient while you’re cruising.

Do you have Amazon Prime?  Amazon Prime comes with many benefits, including faster, free delivery, movies and TV shows (Prime TV) and even borrowing Kindle books. If you don’t already have Amazon Prime, check out the FREE 30 day trial .

CRUISE PLANNING & PACKING LISTS

The ultimate cruise planner.

Do you need cruise packing lists, to-checklists, shore excursion forms and more? Check out the Life Well Cruised Ultimate Cruise Planner .

See details here: Ultimate Cruise Planner -What’s Included

Need more cruise packing tips?

Here are 5 of the most useful cruise packing posts so you’ll be sure to have all the essential things you need for your cruise.

• What to Pack for a Caribbean Cruise
• What to Pack for Your First Cruise (Packing List & Tips)
• 23 Essential Things to Pack in Your Cruise Carry-On Bag
• 21 Best Cruise Luggage and Packing Accessories
• Cruise Wear over 50: Flattering Cruise Outfits for Women (plus packing list)
• Cruise Toiletries Packing List

Note: Keep in mind that you cannot bring your own power bar from home, as it must be a cruise approved, non-surge protected power bar.

I recommend one with 2 USB outlets – click HERE to verify price on Amazon.

Are you a new or seasoned cruiser? What items do you most recommend people bring on a cruise? Let me know in the comments below.

Happy Cruising!

P.S. If you’ve found this post helpful, please share it with others on Facebook or save it for later on Pinterest (share buttons at the top).

30 Comments

Great call with the snorkel and mask! It’s something I wish we had thought to bring while in Bermuda.

Glad you liked the tip. I know so many people love to have their own snorkeling equipment.

I’ll actually add your tip to my Bermuda and Horseshoe Bay post, so thanks for pointing that out!

Enjoy your next cruise!

I live in Toronto, Canada. I have almost all the items listed above. The one thing I don’t have and was interested in … was the collapsible water bottles. I checked your Amazon site. Well … on the US Amazon site, a set of these 2 collapsible water bottles are $15.97. Are you ready for this? On the Canadian Amazon site … the exact same set of 2 collapsible water bottles by the same manufacturer are $46.54 … see below. I copied & pasted it here. The difference in price is obscene.

Collapsible Silicone Water Bottles – Sports Camping Canteen 20 Oz. – Easy to Clean and Store 4.2 out of 5 stars 966 CDN$46.54

Wow, that’s crazy! I wonder if it has to do with where that company is and where it’s shipped from. That’s obviously not worth it at all.

Perhaps the product is available through another distributor? If I see it I’ll let you know.

Thanks for taking the time to let me know.

Great tips. We just returned from our first cruise to Alaska. We used most of these with exception of …. We didn’t bother with the night light. We just left the bathroom light on with the door cracked open. Also our cruise line had a safe in the room. You use your own four digit code and whatever code you lock it with, opens it. So change the code whenever you want. Just remember what you used last. Didn’t use the beachy stuff but will in the future. Thanks.

Thanks so much for your comment. It sounds like you had a great first cruise!

Excellent tip about leaving a light on in the washroom. Simple but does the trick 🙂

Good point too about the safe – I should put this in my first time cruiser tips.

When’s your next cruise? LOL

I actually like the bring your own safe idea. Workers can easily reset your code.

I hadn’t considered that, but it’s a good point if that’s a concern.

Thanks for your comment,

We used the magnet hooks, towel clips and outlet. So glad we did. Next cruise I am adding the collapsible bottle and the folding clothes hangers (bought them before cruise and forgot to pack them 😥). These are all great suggestions. Thank you!

Glad to hear that those items worked out so well for you! I probably should try the folding clothes hangers on my own next cruise, lol!

We cruised to Panama last year and that is in a rain forest. We forgot our rain gear in cabin. We got soaked on our shore excursion. Got back changes hung them to dry. Next day it smelled really bad in our cabin. Next port we got a couple of car air fresheners tree things. They saved the rest of the trip. Water proof case. Went down the water slides on ship. Got great video of inside the slides. Also, we bought a power adapter to fit in European electrical plug. It has four USB ports. Gives us more plug in for our electronics.

Thanks Russell for the great tips. Great point about having rain gear too! I’ll have to add a few items to this list soon I think. I appreciate the useful suggestions!

Instead of plastic towel clips (which are bulky and can be difficult to use), try Towel Bands. I got mine from Cruise On

That’s awesome Robin. I actually have some and will give them a try as well next cruise. I like the practicality.

Thanks for sharing!

We love cruising and thanks to your list it has made it more enjoyable. I would like to add to bring a small bottle of Listerine Blue mouthwash. In case you have to rent or borrow snorkel gear, you can rinse it with the mouthwash to kill any bacteria that might be left behind. It’s not always washed well by the vendors. Also, combined with wipes, the mouthwash completely eliminates the sting of little jellyfish or other small “biters” that often cannot be seen in the water or on a hike. It has helped us more than once.

What a great idea Bo! It’s quite smart to be prepared for jellyfish, which I hadn’t ever considered. I’ll include this tip in my first aid kit list.

Husband and I are going on a 14 day cruise Jan. 2023 Eastern Caribbean. Not sure how much to pack. I do plan to do laundry at east once. Do you have a list for 14 day cruise?

Hi Irene, I have a packing list for a Caribbean cruise. If you plan to do laundry you could bring enough for 7 days or so and wash, plus formal night outfits can be worn more than once if you like.

There is a clothing list for men and women in this post: https://lifewellcruised.com/what-to-pack-for-a-caribbean-cruise/

Have an amazing cruise!

Thankyou for the information on the Caribbean cruise. This was very helpful. I will be able to check off some of the thing on my check list.

John and I will celebrate our 45th Anniversary 7/16/ 2023 . Our plans are to renew our vows on the beach of Galveston, Texas on a Friday afternoon. Then on Saturday, get on the Carnival Dream for a fourteen day cruise. We have belated celebrating our 45th till we cruise. It has been a long stressful year with water damage from a pipe in the attic. When 2022 comes I will toast 2021 good by and never look back. Look ahead to 1/14/2023 of fourteen days of the beauty of the sea and islands I have never seen. Thank you Irene

Sounds wonderful Irene! What a blessing to have spent 45 years together. Happy anniversary & vow renewal!Enjoy every minute of your amazing cruise.

One of the things I noticed you left out is, masks, just in case you might have to use them on the ship or in port. I keep one in my purse just in case the place I have to go to requires it. I also have most of the things in your list and have set it up for our needs on the cruise. We set sail for Alaska next year!

Oh Joyce you’re so right. I think I need to add this (at least for now).

Thanks for noticing and have an awesome Alaskan cruise!

We used the motion detector night light on our December cruise and learned the best place to put it was on the ground. It was so sensitive that it kept picking up our movement in the bed and turning on. When I put it on the ground it only turned on when we needed it and the light was perfect to navigate the room.

Wow Melissa! This sounds brilliant – thanks so much for the tip!

Hi Ilana. Thank you for the very informative post. My family and I will be traveling on Carnival Vista in August and one thing I did have to order is a daily travel pill container. We ordered two just so we can carry extra (vitamins and ibuprofen) instead of the bulky bottles. They store easily my purse and take up hardly any space.

I look forward to reading more of your posts!

Great idea! I should add this to my own list as well. Thanks for the suggestion & have an amazing cruise!

#36 “Bonine”. Amazon also sells the generic of this “meclazine”. I last bought some 2 years ago – 300 for about $10. That’s a lot of cruising!

That’s great! Thanks for sharing.

I love Alaska in September so the beach items don’t apply but one essential for me in a waterproof backpack. My pack with rain cover got soaked so this year I ordered a waterproof backpack for those rainy day hikes. Another trick is bring large ziplock bags to put items in you bag to either prevent from getting wet or to hold wet items, they are a life saver.

On a trip to Germany I picked up a euro plug that goes to 3 USB, we now have plenty of plugs for everything in our cabin. Traveling solo I don’t need it but it might come in handy on my next cruise.

Good tips!! Thanks for sharing

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Packing Tips for Cruise Ship Crew

Knowing what to pack for your first contract working on a cruise ship can be overwhelming. You don’t want to pack too much. You don’t want to forget anything either. Here are some packing tips for cruise ship crew—follow these and you’ll feel like a pro!

How Much Luggage Should You Bring?

It’s a fact that first time crewmembers often bring way too much stuff. They bring too many clothes, they bring too many toiletries, and they bring too many personal items. This adds up to too many pieces of luggage as well. Consider that you may need to schlep your luggage by yourself without help of others or trolleys, especially once you get into the cruise port.

Once you’ve worked on a cruise ship, you get an idea of what type of clothes you need for your position. You also understand how much and the types of leisure clothes you need. You find out that you can purchase your toiletries as you need them in the ports you visit. Many crewmembers also realize that they can live without many personal items such as a personal blanket or pillow.

Eliminating items that you don’t need and adding some items that you didn’t think of the first time will make you an expert by your second contract. A good rule of thumb for how many pieces of luggage to bring are two checked pieces that have wheels plus one airplane-sized carry on such as a backpack.

Laundry for Cruise Ship Crew

Understanding how crew laundry works onboard may help you to decide how many clothes to bring as well. Although there are laundry machines for crew and officers to do their laundry themselves, there is also a free laundry service for crew, too.

Most crew send all their uniforms and formal wear through the onboard laundry service and dry cleaning service. But, when it comes to more personal items, many crewmembers choose to wash these by themselves in the crew and officer launderettes. Both types of laundry are free of charge.

There are a couple of issues to consider. The laundry service may on occasion damage your clothes or they may go missing. As for the launderettes, they may be busy during the only time you have to wash your clothes.

Is Formal Wear Required for Cruise Jobs?

The amount of formal wear you need to bring will depend on the cruise job you have onboard. Many crewmembers will never have the opportunity to wear formal wear whereas some positions will wear dressy clothes throughout every cruise.

Cruise jobs such as cruise staff, entertainers, cruise sales manager, art auctioneer, loyalty manager, port and shopping guide typically have to dress in their own dressy clothes every formal night. This means men in suits and women in long evening gowns or cocktail dresses. Exactly how many shoes and formal clothes you bring will depend on the space in your luggage.

How Much Leisure Wear Should You Pack?

Every crewmember is different when it comes to how many extra clothes to bring. Although you are probably in a uniform most of the time, you still need to bring a fair amount of clothes to wear during your off hours. Take into consideration how much free time you actually have, how much time you go ashore, and how much time you are just hanging out.

You will need clothes to sleep in, a couple of bathing suits, workout clothes (for the gym onboard), jeans for chilly climates and for the ship’s air conditioning, and summer-type clothes for warmer weather. A light weight rain jacket and a fleece are great items to bring. As for shoes, these tend to take up lots of space so choose them wisely, too.

What About Toiletries?

Toiletries can also take up a lot of space if you are intending to bring a six months supply of them. Don’t make this mistake. There may be some products that you prefer to have and you don’t think you can get while traveling. Just consider the itinerary you will be traveling to. Can you purchase your favourite products in the ports you will visit?

Other Essential Items to Pack for Cruise Ship Jobs

As you finalize what you think you need to bring onboard for your first contract at sea, consider these other items.

Uniform Shoes – You will probably be given a list of required items that you will need in terms of your uniform such as white shoes and black shoes. Consider that most cruise jobs require you to be on your feet all day, so comfort should be a priority. Steel toed shoes are typically available in the uniform store onboard. Check with your recruiter.

Universal Adapter – Most of the outlets onboard cruise ships are either meant for North American appliances (110 volt) or for European appliances (220 volt) or both. An adapter will allow you to plug your hairdryer, computer, etc. into the outlets in your cabin.

Computer – This is a great way to stay connected with friends and family (use a crew internet card for low priced internet). You can also watch DVDs on your computer and listen to music. Bring headphones so that you won’t disturb your cabin mate.

Hair Dryer – This is not usually provided onboard.

Alarm Clock – Although you can set a wakeup call on the phone in your cabin, it’s important to have a back up too. A travel sized alarm clock doesn’t take up much space in your luggage.

Power Bar – Also called an electrical power strip, this item comes in handy because there are only a couple of outlets in each cabin. Although you may not be using all your items at the same time, not having to unplug and re-plug each time you use it is a convenience.

Packing Your Carry-On

Your carry-on is only so big, so pack it wisely. You will probably be taking an airplane to join your ship and you want to make sure that anything important to you doesn’t get lost. That’s why what you put in your carry-on will have vale to you.

As a priority, you need to keep all your joining instructions, passport (with C1D visa stamp), and wallet with local currency and shipboard currency in your carry-on. Other things to pack in your carry-on are other valuables such as your computer, cell phone, and medications. After that, it’s whatever else will fit.

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Cruise Packing List: 56 Essentials Chosen by Experts

P acking for any trip takes some planning, but cruise vacations present a unique challenge – particularly due to limited stateroom storage space and sparse (or overpriced) options for purchasing accidentally forgotten items.

To help you decide what to pack for a cruise, we've curated a list of essentials recommended by cruise experts who regularly sail the high seas. Download the U.S. News Cruise Packing List pictured above to reference while you pack, and read on to learn more about the recommended items and where you can purchase them if needed.

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Carry-on bag

Regardless of whether you bring checked luggage, you'll need some type of carry-on bag . Since checked bags need to go through security as they do at airports – and because you may need to wait for your stateroom to be ready, just like at a hotel – you'll want to be able to access any necessities pre-cruise. These might include a swimsuit, sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat for the pools; medications; a bottle of water; and your smartphone, of course. You'll also want to keep your credit card , passport, and any other important documentation or valuables close by. A carry-on backpack works especially well since it can double as a day bag for shore excursions.

Checked bag

While you'll likely want to bring a checked bag, consider sharing one with your shipmate(s) to maximize stateroom storage space. Or, consider bringing medium-sized luggage, such as the The Medium by Away , for checking in.

Garment bag

While many cruises are less formal these days, a garment bag can still be handy for keeping select garments wrinkle-free (since clothing irons are prohibited on cruise ships). Top-rated options include the The Garment Duffel by Halfday and the Briggs and Riley Baseline 22" Carry-On 2-Wheel Garment Bag , both of which double as traditional luggage. If you pack your luggage right, you can make this your only suitcase, in addition to a carry-on bag.

Packing cubes or vacuum-sealed bags

Packing cubes are one of the best ways to organize your belongings for travel – especially in a tight cruise ship cabin. Top-rated options include the Veken packing cubes on Amazon (usually priced around $20) and all of the Pack-It Sets by Eagle Creek. The Pack-It Starter Set is especially ideal for cruising since it includes a garment folder designed to minimize wrinkles in clothing. Some cruisers also swear by vacuum-sealed bags , even though they can be a bit more tedious to pack.

Carry-on caddy

Ashley Kosciolek, senior cruise writer at The Points Guy, recommends a carry-on caddy , particularly if you're flying to your embarkation point. "I have a fabric sleeve that slides down over the telescoping handle on my carry-on to provide pockets for my passport, phone, coffee – all the things I used to have to juggle during check-in."

Digital luggage scale

The compact Etekcity scale – approximately $10 on Amazon – can weigh bags up to 110 pounds and help you avoid overweight baggage fees. You can often find these scales at your local Marshalls and HomeGoods stores too.

Bungee cord

"Especially for travelling with the family, I use a bright-green bungee cord to strap multiple pieces of luggage together," says Aaron Saunders, senior editor at Cruise Critic. "It's a lifesaver when boarding trains or disembarking ships, particularly when you ' re maneuvering a stroller and a little one around, too."

Luggage tracker

A luggage tracker isn't just useful for air travel. Attach one to your checked cruise luggage to see when it has arrived in your stateroom (or if it's stalled at security). Chris Gray Faust, executive editor at Cruise Critic, doesn't go anywhere without her Apple AirTag after her luggage got stuck in Vancouver for over a week last June. "My AirTag use has expanded beyond my checked luggage, too. I also have AirTags in my handbag, my carry-on, my keychain and my wallet."

Cruise insurance

Due to the unpredictable nature of travel, cruise insurance can be a wise purchase ahead of your voyage. Travel policies can cover unforeseen expenses such as trip interruptions and medical emergencies.

While a passport is often required for cruising, rules can vary depending where you're traveling. Determine whether you need a passport for your upcoming cruise ; if you do, triple-check that you have it packed the day of departure.

Credit cards and local currency

When cruising internationally, consider getting small amounts of each country's currency to have on hand in port. Depending where you go, some local markets may only accept their own country's currency, not U.S. dollars or credit cards. It's also nice to leave cash gratuities for cab drivers, tour guides or servers; in the European Union, 1- and 2-euro coins are convenient and appropriate tips. In ports with vendors that do accept credit cards, be sure to carry a Visa or Mastercard , as some shops and restaurants do not take American Express .

RFID wallet

It's important to protect your travel documents with an RFID wallet like the TIGARI Passport Holder or the ZOPPEN RFID Travel Passport Wallet , the latter of which can hold multiple passports for a family. "Thieves and hackers can steal your credit card information just by using skimming devices," explains Jill Schildhouse, a cruise expert and U.S. News contributor who always travels with her RFID wallet. "And because your wallet wasn't even touched, you won't know it happened until you see your credit card statement."

Medications

Pack more than enough of your prescription medications as well as any over-the-counter medicines you'll need, just in case you encounter an itinerary change or travel delay. While some travelers find it easiest to bring personal medicines in their prescription bottles, others find travel pill boxes to be especially helpful for organization. The Sukuos Weekly Pill Organizer is a well-rated option, with detachable boxes for each day as well as compartments for morning and evening medications.

Sheet masks

Since flying can be so drying for the skin, Faust likes to use sheet masks. "My first step the night before I board (because you should always fly in a day early) is to hydrate with a sheet mask (usually from a Korean brand like Ballon Blanc or FaceTory )," she says. "If I'm meeting up with a friend, I bring an extra sheet mask so our trip starts out feeling a bit like a spa day!"

Magnetic hooks

A surprising fact: Cruise ship cabin walls are made of metal, which means you can optimize your storage space by hanging some of your belongings on magnetic wall hooks. The hooks are perfect for holding bulky coats or boots if you're traveling to a colder climate. You can also use them for wet gear on expedition ships and adventure cruises, or for drying out bathing suits after days at the beach or pool. Purchase a set of magnetic hooks for less than $10 on Amazon.

Like hotels, cruise ships can only provide so many hangers. Bring a few extras from home or pick up a pack from your local dollar store. You might also try packable hangers .

Wrinkle release spray

Whether or not you bring a garment bag, a travel-size bottle of wrinkle release spray, such as Downy Wrinkle Releaser spray , is useful to have on board. If you combine a spritz or two with the steam from your shower, you should be able to smooth out some of the wrinkles in your clothing.

Laundry detergent

"If you don't want to pay for laundry service or spend precious time in the self-service laundry room, bring a small bottle of laundry detergent like Woolite to wash key items in the sink: underwear, bras, quick-dry hiking shorts, bathing suits, etc.," recommends Schildhouse. "Every cruise ship shower has a retractable clothesline you can extend to drape the clothes over while they dry. This can also help cut down on the number of items you need to pack."

Over-the-door organizers

Over-the-door organizers with clear or mesh pockets allow you to find your feminine hygiene products, makeup, jewelry and other small items quickly – without having to hunt through multiple drawers or a tight stateroom closet. It's a good idea to purchase a two-pack like this option by Simple Houseware Store (available on Amazon), since you can also use one to store shoes and maximize floor space.

It goes without saying, but to say it anyway: A toilet spray like Poo-Pourri is a must for your cruise packing list. Any smell – pleasant or not – will travel quickly in small staterooms with small bathrooms. Buy a travel-size bottle to keep in your cabin.

Shampoo and conditioner

Cruise experts agree it's best to bring your own shampoo and conditioner in travel-size bottles, as most cruise ships don't provide separate shampoo and conditioner anymore; instead, they offer all-in-one dispensers. Colleen McDaniel, editor-in-chief at Cruise Critic, likes to pack her shampoo and conditioner in the popular Cadence Capsules , noting she also uses them for another essential: sunscreen. "These capsules are easy to fill, never leak and have clear labels, which you can customize," she says.

Wine or Champagne

Most major cruise lines allow each guest to bring one to two bottles of wine or Champagne on board, while some luxury cruise lines allow even more than that. Disney Cruise Line also gives guests the option to bring a six-pack of beer instead of wine or Champagne. Be sure to consult your cruise line's policies when packing for your trip.

If you plan to bring wine or Champagne, you'll likely need a corkscrew . While some cruise lines may prohibit corkscrews, others allow them on board; check your cruise line's policy before sailing. Bringing wine with a twistable cap may be a good alternative.

Portable humidifier

Cruise ship cabins can feel dry – especially in the colder months. A portable humidifier like the GENIANI Erie (around $25 on Amazon) can provide some relief. At about half a pound, this USB-powered device will fit neatly into your checked bag or carry-on luggage. The travel humidifier features two mist settings and has an automatic shut-off option, plus a night light to help you see around your cabin in the dark.

International travel adapter or converter

You'll likely need a travel adapter, since cruise lines homeported in international locales may have different electrical sockets and voltage strengths than you're used to in the U.S.

McDaniel recommends the OneWorld65 Travel Adapter . "I've used a lot of different travel adapters over the years, but this is my favorite. It charges up to six devices at once, has USB and mini-USB options, and works in over 200 countries," she says. "While many cruise ships have U.S. outlets, most usually also have European outlets. This adapter lets me take advantage of that outlet I'd otherwise ignore." She also notes that while cruise lines are getting better about having more outlets on their ships, it never feels like enough to keep your phone, camera battery, tablet, watch, headphones/earbuds and laptop charged (times two or more if you're traveling with others).

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Sound machine

Cruise experts agree a sound machine can be helpful for blocking out the sound of late-night partiers returning to their staterooms (or your snoring spouse). Schildhouse likes the LectroFan Micro 2 for cruising. "It plays non-looping white noise and doubles as a speaker to play tunes while you get ready for dinner."

Tech organizer

A tech organizer like the BAGSMART electronics organizer case – available on Amazon for about $20 – can store all your cables, plugs, SD cards and earphones in one zippered, compact bag that will fit easily in your carry-on luggage. Despite its small size, it can also hold bulkier items like a small laptop charging cord.

First-aid kit

A first-aid kit is a good thing to have on hand no matter where you go. You can make your own using supplies you already have at home, or buy a premade first-aid kit on Amazon for about $20. While all cruise ships have medical facilities, it's useful to have these items with you on shore excursions, especially those involving active adventures.

Hand sanitizer

Regularly washing your hands and/or using hand sanitizer is essential to staying healthy while traveling, especially on a cruise ship. Stock up on a few travel-size bottles of hand sanitizer (less than $2 each at Walmart) ahead of your trip. If you're looking for something with less alcohol that's also less drying, check out Babyganics Alcohol-Free Foaming Hand Sanitizer .

If you're a parent, you know that your infant or toddler needs a very specific size – and in some cases brand – of diapers, which may very well be unavailable to you on your cruise ship or in the ports of call. Bring more than enough diapers to play it safe at sea.

Most cruise lines also require that non-toilet-trained infants and toddlers wear swim diapers in the children's water play areas. For the sake of sanitation, kids must be toilet-trained to use the pools on cruise ships.

Many cruisers like to personalize their cabin with stateroom door decor. Not only is it a fun tradition, but decorating the door can make it easier to locate your room, too. You can find lots of fun decor ideas on Pinterest as well as Amazon.

" Duct tape is a life-saver in many situations," says Kosciolek. "I primarily use it to attach my printed luggage tags, but it's also great for mending clothing issues on the fly and fixing broken luggage until you can get it back home."

"As a parent, I like to bring lanyards with sleeves so my kids can wear their keycards and not lose them," says Erica Silverstein, senior cruise editor at The Points Guy. "We hang them on the magnetic hooks I put on the wall, so they don't get lost in the cabin either."

If you're prone to (or think you may be prone to) motion sickness on cruise ships, put a pair of Sea-Bands on your cruise packing list. These soft wristbands use acupressure to prevent and minimize nausea and vomiting on board, and they are a reusable, drug-free alternative to traditional anti-nausea medications. You can purchase Sea-Bands on Amazon or at most drugstores.

If you need something a bit stronger than Sea-Bands (or to use in conjunction with them), Dramamine remains a tried-and-true solution for both preventing and treating sea sickness. Choose the Less Drowsy formula to avoid getting sleepy, and consider the chewable tablets (dye-free) if traveling with kids who are prone to queasiness. Many travelers like Bonine as a remedy for sea sickness as well.

Mix-and-match clothing

Pack a variety of mix-and-match items, also known as a capsule wardrobe, for your cruise. To do this, choose a base color – black or navy blue – for your wardrobe. Next, pack plain, neutral-colored items, then add a few patterned items to the mix. Remember to include a variety of styles (T-shirts, long-sleeved shirts, pants, shorts, dresses, rompers and jumpsuits) and also consider reversible clothing and outfits that can easily transition from day to night.

Sports jacket or blazer

Adam Coulter, executive editor of Cruise Critic UK and Australia, recommends packing a sports jacket or blazer. "While cruise lines are getting more casual, what happens if you get that last-minute invite to meet the captain, or there's a meet and mingle where you want to look put together? A jacket will always elevate your elegance (even if you're wearing a T-shirt underneath)," he says. If you're in need of a travel blazer, Bluffworks has some well-rated options; the Gramercy , in particular, gets great reviews.

Themed party attire

Some cruise lines host themed voyages or parties on select nights where passengers can dress up to participate in the fun. You'll want to review your cruise itinerary before you go so you're prepared for the festivities. Bring your buccaneer gear if you're sailing aboard Disney Cruise Line; ships host fun events like Pirate Nights, pirate-themed dinners and a "Pirates in the Caribbean" show. On "The Love Boat"-themed cruises offered by Princess Cruises , pack your platform boots, glittery dresses, bell-bottom pants and halter tops for the line's 1970s-inspired disco party on the deck. No matter the theme, you can't go wrong with a couple of cruise captain hats .

Travel wrap

A travel wrap is a versatile accessory that's useful for any trip – even more so on a cruise ship where it can get chilly when the sea breeze picks up. Available in nearly 10 different colors, J.Crew's Oversized Cashmere Wrap is a timeless staple, albeit a bit of an investment; for something less expensive but well rated, try this off-brand pashmina shawl on Amazon .

Packable jacket

If you're cruising to a cold weather destination such as Alaska, you'll need something heavier than a travel wrap, but not so bulky that it requires additional luggage. Consider a packable jacket that folds easily and compactly; travel experts highly recommend the Patagonia Nano Puff Jacket .

Packable hat

If you're headed to the Caribbean or another warm weather destination, you'll want a beach hat to protect your scalp and face from the sun. This packable straw hat by FURTALK (available on Amazon for about $25) is a stylish women's option that features a broader brim and offers UPF 50 sun protection.

Comfortable walking shoes

Even if you never step foot off the ship, there is still plenty of walking to do between bow and stern. Closed-toe shoes or sandals with straps are safer than flimsy flip-flops when boarding a slippery tender into port (if your ship can't dock directly). Check out our recommendations for the most comfortable walking shoes , which include the popular Allbirds Wool Runners and the ECCO Yucatan Sandals .

Water shoes

Depending on your scheduled shore excursions, you might also need a pair of water shoes. For something that's both functional and fashionable, Crocs' Classic Clogs are a good option. While not totally waterproof, the Native Jefferson is a water-friendly, versatile option.

Versatile heels

"Over the years, I've learned that the key to avoiding overpacking is to bring one neutral pair of low heels that match every single eveningwear outfit I've packed – from flowy pants to dresses," says Schildhouse. The Naturalizer Bristol Sandal is an ideal choice, with a cushioned footbed, a 2.5-inch heel, and great reviews. It's also available in a variety of colors.

Reusable water bottle

A reusable water bottle is useful for filling up at water and beverage stations on your cruise ship; it's also a necessity for shore excursions.

Bathing suit

Pack a couple of swimsuits for the pools, hot tubs and any shore excursions.

Swim cover-up

Another must-have for your cruise packing list is a swimsuit cover-up or two. These are great for wearing over your bathing suit during days at sea, as well as on excursions – especially if you're going on a Caribbean cruise . Amazon sells a variety of stylish, affordable cover-ups, and you can never go wrong with a classic white button-down shirt .

Dry bags are useful for shore excursions where you're likely to get wet but don't want the same to be true for your phone, camera and other precious items. "I use the Outdoor Research Unisex Dry Isolation Pack  and have never had so much as a drop of moisture enter it, which is important for me – it keeps my cameras, documents and important items from getting wet," says Saunders, adding that it functions as a great everyday backpack when it's not raining.

If you need more than one dry bag, cruise expert Brittany Chrusciel recommends the Sea to Summit Lightweight Dry Bag Set . "Having these dry bags, in a variety of sizes, means I can bring all my gear along during a Zodiac cruise or snorkeling excursion without having to worry about it getting wet."

Waterproof phone case

A waterproof phone case is also essential, especially if you plan to take photos. The Hiearcool Waterproof Phone Pouches (available in a two-pack) come with a lanyard so you can both protect your phone and wear it around your neck. They are compatible with most smartphones.

"I like to bring collapsible pails, small shovels , inflatable beach toys, a floppy Frisbee or other things to entertain the kids on the beach if we're going to a private island or beach destination," says Silverstein. "If you can inflate your own inner tube, you don't need to rent a floating mat."

Beach towel

"Although cruise lines provide guests with towels to take off the ship on excursions, they are often bulky and sometimes small," explains Chrusciel. "The Surfer Towel folds up to nearly nothing, so it takes up almost no room in your suitcase and is super convenient to pack in a day bag. What's more, its quick-drying technology means that the lightweight fabric won't be soaking wet when you need to pack up for the day and head back to the ship."

Towel clips

"Even though giant plastic towel clips shaped like a flamingo are a bit cringey, they make it easy to find your spot in a sea of sun loungers," says Chrusciel. "They also solve a common cruise problem: keeping your towel securely fixed to your chair while reading or sunbathing."

Reef-safe sunscreen

When choosing a sunscreen, look for something that's reef-safe; not only are these sunscreens safer for the environment, but they're also better for you . The active ingredients in reef-safe sunscreens, also known as mineral sunscreens, are zinc oxide, titanium dioxide or a combination of both. Top-rated mineral sunscreen brands include Think , Badger and Raw Elements , all of which also sell lip balm with sunscreen (another essential at sea).

After-sun lotion

You'll want an extra dose of moisturizer if you've been basking in the sun. COOLA makes an after-sun body lotion that cools and hydrates the skin with aloe vera, agave and lavender oil. Previous buyers rave about this lotion, noting they appreciate that the scent isn't overpowering.

A good book

Sea days are the perfect time to kick back and relax with a book you've been meaning to read. Find an oceanfront lounge chair in a shaded area on the pool deck, or grab a cup of tea and settle into a quiet nook indoors. There's no need to pack more than one book, however, as many cruise ships have libraries.

What not to pack for a cruise

Power strip.

Many cruise lines do not permit power strips as they present a fire hazard, while others allow them as long as they are non-surge-protected. Instead of a power strip, purchase a portable charger such as this highly rated one by Anker , which can power up multiple devices at once. This can be especially useful for shore excursions. When packing for your cruise, also think about your luggage: If it has an included charging port, you may not even need to purchase an additional charging block.

Weapons and restraints

Firearms, handcuffs and the like are not permitted on cruise ships. This rule also includes toy guns on most cruise lines.

While most major cruise lines allow guests to pack a limited amount of wine or Champagne per person, they do not permit hard liquor. Of course, those of age can purchase cocktails at any of the bars on board.

Household appliances

Irons and steamers are not permitted on cruise ships, which is why the aforementioned garment bags, wrinkle release spray and packing cubes are recommended for keeping clothing tidy and neat. Coffee makers and mug warmers are also prohibited.

While you can technically bring you own, it's not necessary as hairdryers are available in every bathroom on most ships.

CBD and marijuana

CBD that's derived from hemp and contains 0.3% THC or less is legal at a federal level. However, each state interprets and enforces this law differently; for example, many states require a prescription for it. Due to the ambiguity of the laws, most cruise lines continue to ban CBD in any form.

Marijuana remains illegal under U.S. federal law, which means you cannot bring it on a cruise ship – even if you're legally able to purchase it in your home state for recreational or medical use.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

For the U.S. News Cruise Packing List, travel writers Gwen Pratesi and Amanda Norcross tapped leading industry experts for their cruise essentials. They regularly update this checklist with new and useful items to pack.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Cruise Lines
• The Best Adults-Only Cruises
• The Best All-Inclusive Cruises

Copyright 2024 U.S. News & World Report

What to Pack When Working on a Cruise Ship By A Crew Member 2024

Wondering what to pack when working on a cruise ship? This list has the common and not so common things to help make your contract a success.

Whether it’s your first cruise ship contract, your 50th, or somewhere in between packing to work on a cruise ship can be a challenge. Over the past decade of being as a crew member I’ve lost track of just how many times I’ve packed up my life into a suitcase and flown across the world.

In this list we look into the practical, the necessary, and a bit of the fun, too. From organizing your cabin to tips for theme parties , if you are wondering what to pack when working on a cruise ship ? This list has you covered.

What to Pack When Working on a Cruise Ship

✅ passport ✅ work documents and certificates ✅ charging cable for your phone ✅ enough medication for your contract

✅ Underwear /bras – enough for a week ✅ Socks – enough for a week ✅ Undershirts ✅ Dressy outfit – depending on function – at least 1 option ✅ Jeans – 1-2 pairs ✅ Shorts ✅ tops – 4 or 5 (mix of t-shirts, long sleeve, something slightly dressier incase you have an overnight night out) ✅ skirts and dresses ✅ Gym clothes (2-3 sets depending on how often you go to the gym) ✅ Basic cold weather clothes – rain jacket, sneakers, and a sweater or sweatshirt ✅ Basic warm weather clothes – shorts/skirts, tank tops, flip flops/sandals ✅ Bathing suit ✅ Sun hat

✅ Laundry detergent sheets ✅ shampoo/conditioner ✅ hand soap ✅ toothpaste/floss ✅ body-wash ✅ sunscreen ✅ deodorant ✅ any face cream/lotions ✅ hair brush ✅ hair dryer/styler ✅ sanitary products (do not flush these down the toilets!) ✅ make-up

For Your Cabin

✅ Over the door organizer ✅ Shower caddy (maybe get this sent to the ship depending on luggage space) ✅ Cuddle Blanket ✅ Laundry bag (can even be a reusable shopping bag) ✅ Ear Plugs ✅ Eye Mask

✅ Noise cancelling headphones ✅ Tablet/ Kindle /Laptop (whatever your go-to is) ✅ External hard-drive or USB with good storage ✅ Bonus: Portable Speaker ✅ Bonus: AirTags or luggage tracking tags

Bonus Fun to Bring: Instant Camera

I’m a sucker for these instant cameras – over the years our fridge (at home!) has become filled with pictures from fun nights with friends. If it’s in your budget these are fun for you and your friends.

Things for your international life

✅ International cell phone plan or plan for using local sims ✅ Credit card without international fees ✅ Universal travel adapter ✅ WhatsApp downloaded on your phone ✅ Google Translate on your phone ✅ Your companies emergency travel number

Confused about ship life? Understanding life on a cruise ship can be hard. Check out “ Cruise Ship Crew Life ” with posts answering questions ranging from if you can get mail to how many hours you are allowed to work.

Packing Tips For Cruise Ship Workers

Packing your carry-on.

When packing to go to the ship your carry-on is actually more important than everything else you are bringing. Without the contents of your carry-on you won’t be able to work onboard and will likely be denied boarding the ship.

✅ Passport ✅ Seamen’s Book ✅ Medical Certificate ✅ Other certificates/licenses needed for your role ✅ Basics to go with your uniform ✅ Enough underwear/socks/clothes to sleep in for a couple days

In your carry-on you will have all of your work documents. Without these work documents you won’t be able to work onboard. This will include your medical certificate, safety certificate, and depending on your nationality and function could also be for english proficiency or even licenses to operate different parts of the ship.

In addition to this you should also pack the basics for at least the first couple of days incase your check luggage gets lost. The extra pieces you will need for your uniform as well a couple pairs of underwear and something to sleep in.

You don’t need as much as you think

You will be wearing a uniform a huge amount of your time onboard so you don’t need to pack as much as you think. You will need clothes aside from your uniform to go ashore, go to the gym, sleep in, and hang out in crew areas (crew bar).

Most likely you’ll have a roommate – and not much storage

It makes sense to keep what you bring to what you need and some items to help organize that space. Most crew have roommates and are in a windowless bunk bed cabin unless you are an officer and then what kind of cabin you have depends on how many stripes you have.

In these cabins you can expect a closet with a couple of drawers at the bottom, a few drawers in a desk, and a drawer under the bed. You may be able to lift up the bottom bunk to store your suitcase.

I still have a roommate onboard – my husband! Yes – sometimes you can work on a cruise ship as a couple !) but it still takes some smart use of space and mindful packing. The extra shelf in the shower was a big game changer as before that we had a fun little adventure of whose shower stuff would get to live in the tiny little corner shelf (and inevitably fall down when the ship rocked).

There is a crew laundry onboard

There are laundry facilities onboard for crew to use. But, scheduling out the few hours that it takes to do laundry can be a challenge. Plan that you’ll only be able to do laundry once a week.

Make sure when you’re doing laundry onboard to set a timer to remember to change your laundry. Other crew may take it out of the washer and just leave it there.

Things to Go With Your Uniform

Most cruise lines will provide your uniform for you. There will still be some extra pieces you need to bring. Here are some things you might need to bring:

✅ Shoes ✅ Black belt ✅ Undershirt ✅ Pantyhose ✅ Make-Up

Find out from your recruitment agency or onboarding partner what your uniform will be and what pieces you need to bring. Be smart when looking at the list – if you see something like “white sneakers” bring white socks to go with it. If you see you’ll be wearing a white uniform top – bring some undershirts to go with them.

Getting Packages to the Ship

Cruise ship crew can get mail including packages from Amazon. The exact procedure depends on which company you work for, but getting packages delivered to the ship is becoming more common (and essential) for cruise ship crew members.

Depending on the port there may be a per package fee.

Don’t plan to go ashore the first few weeks

It can be tempting to not pack much for toiletries thinking you’ll go ashore in the first port. That is not always an option though.

Be aware that if you are sailing in the US (Alaska or Hawaii) you won’t be able to go ashore in US ports until you get your I-95 so you may have to wait one full cruise before going ashore.

Be prepared if you get transferred

Even if you are assigned to a contract on a specific ship doing a specific itinerary – the company can change that mid-contract depending on the needs of the company. So, you might start a contract in Alaska only to get transferred to the Mediterranean. This doesn’t happen that often but it can happen.

Your hairdryer might get confiscated – but you need to pack it anyways

When you first join the ship your hair dryer may get confiscated by security. This is because in general you are not allowed items that create heat in your cabin. Fire is actually the biggest risk to the ship (and not icebergs!) Most hair dryers will be approved; but, you are better off getting one slightly less powerful or a travel sized one to be sure.

You still need to bring one though because for nearly every function one of the grooming rules is that you are not allowed to have wet hair in passenger areas.

Formal Nights

A hotly debated topic amongst cruise enthusiast. I used to always recommend bringing formal clothes onboard a cruise ship. Dress codes onboard have drastically shifted within the past 10 years. For most cruise lines in 2024 “Formal” nights are only reserved for things like New Years Eve.

At this point for a “formal” night it tends to be more in the way of cocktail party than black tie event. However, it’s a bit dependent on cruise line so ask what you might need for these nights if you are in a passenger facing role that might need to get dressed up (mostly cruise staff or musicians).

The company provides bedding & towels

When you work onboard a cruise ship as a crew member the company will provide you with sheets, a blanket, towels, and pillows. So this is not something you need to bring.

You may have to go to the laundry to get your bedding or you may have a cabin steward that cleans your cabin a couple of times a week. Like most aspects of your life onboard, this, as well as the quality of your bedding, depends on your rank onboard .

What luggage should I bring?

I am a believer in a big suitcase, carry-on roller, and backpack/personal item. To do this the carry-on needs to be able to fit inside the big suitcase otherwise you won’t have space to store it all in your room which is why you should never bring two large suitcases.

I have an Away set that I love and they now have both hard sided and soft sided suitcases. They have been used and abused for I would say 25+ international trips over the past 5 years and are still doing great. The wheels glide like a dream. The only risk is packing them too heavy.

🧳 🛄 Use this link for $20 off your first purchase with Away.

Packing for Parties

Parties are part of cruise life. A lot of times passengers come onboard to party and the crew definitely enjoy a chance to unwind. You do not need to pack for parties (unless your work function requires you to), but it can be kind of fun.

🕺🏻🎉 Something for themed passenger parties 🕺🏻🎉 Little bits for holidays during your contract

Parties in Passenger Areas

Whether or not you have to go to passenger parties will depend on your job. Sometimes you have to go and sometimes you can go just for fun.

Some cruise lines are known for their specific parties – a glow party, silent disco, orange party. If you know what party your cruise line usually throws you can pack a little extra something that fits that theme.

Also, take a look at the calendar for major holidays that will happen during your contract and possibly toss in something small to go with it.

Crew Parties

Cruise ship crew love an excuse to party. Whether it is for a holiday or just because someone thought there should be a party.

There will likely be other parties along the way and don’t fret about bringing too much of anything. You can never pack for all the different random themes that happen.

There are costume shops in various ports you’ll go to and sometimes finding the random things for your outfit is part of the fun! (It’s also a great time to be friends with the Youth Staff!!!)

Do cruise ship crew get days off?

Don’t plan on it! For the most part cruise ship crew do not get days off and work every day for the length of their contract – usually between 3 and 8 months long! Take a deeper look at crew schedules in this post all about days off for cruise ship crew .

Is it a good idea to work on a cruise ship?

In my experience, yes! But, if you ask someone else they might think about it differently. It is a huge experience, taking you around the world, working with people from other cultures. It can be great, but the hours can be really long and it is months away from home and your family and friends.

For me, it has been one of the best experiences of my life. I met my husband onboard, have made some of the most lasting friendships of my life, and have now been to about 75 countries. It can be pretty incredible but can be really hard, too.

Do cruise ship employees get to keep their tips?

The money that is added onto your bill as daily gratuities is distributed out to the tipped employees onboard. This does not mean it goes to everyone onboard, but will get distributed out to folks working in housekeeping and dining services primarily.

If you give a crew member an extra tip, they sometimes get to keep it all for themselves and other times it gets pooled together with their direct team only to get evenly split up. It depends on what function they are in and what cruise line. The cash tips that you give to them go to the crew members though and is not kept by the company.

What do cruise ship workers do when not working?

Go ashore, sleep, relax and watch TV, go to the gym, and go to the crew bar!

Crew work long hard hours so a lot of time if they have a few hours off they will opt to take a nap. If it’s an interesting port or they just need to get off the ship they might head ashore. Sometimes they can even join a shore excursion for free.

Otherwise they’ll likely be taking a little downtime to relax, watch TV, go to the gym, or go to the crew bar. Crew can sometimes use the passenger gym, but there is also a separate crew gym onboard.

What to pack when working on a cruise ship can be a daunting task. What will you need? It’s all so new. The good part is if you forget something, you can either have it sent to the ship, or you can buy it in whatever fun foreign port you are in! It’s kind of fun to build a wardrobe from around the world.

Over time you’ll learn the little extra things that make your life onboard more comfortable, and it’s a little bit different for everyone. Good luck on your contract!

Want to know what else to expect from working onboard? Check out these posts!

Your First Cruise Ship Contract: Getting to the Ship Your First Cruise Ship Contract: First Day Onboard Your First Cruise Ship Contract: Getting Home

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Hi! I hope it’s okay to post a comment here.

My name is Chlo, I’m from the UK, and in a few weeks I should be starting my first contract with Harding Retail. I’ve never been on a cruise before so I’ve been looking for any information I can find from other people who have worked on cruises before to help me know what to pack and essentially give me as many tips as possible so that I don’t end up completely surprised at every turn. That’s how I came across your blog – it’s been so helpful reading what your experiences have been like and all the little bits of wisdom you have, especially because you mentioned a lot of stuff that I wouldn’t have thought of, or reaffirmed certain things that I was uncertain about. I found your post about mail for crew members particularly useful because I’ll be on the ship for my birthday, and everyone is already asking me how they’re going to send me anything.

Based on what I’ve read, I have a question, if that’s okay?

I was told by Harding that for my first contract (at least) it is highly unlikely that I’ll be allowed to leave the ship at all, unless it’s to get deliveries onboard. When reading this post you mentioned that when you are in port you can stock up on certain things (like washing powder), but that’s not going to be possible for me. I presume (based on what the company has told me) that there are crew shops onboard: what do these shops generally sell? For example, will I need to bring six months worth of shampoo, deodorant and hairspray, or can I just bring one of each and buy supplies from the crew shop?

Thank you! Take care of yourself.

I’m so excited for you! I am sure you are going to have a great time. Working on cruise ships was among the best and most exciting experiences I could have ever dreamed of.

Of course it’s alright for you to ask a question and I’m happy to help!

Onboard every ship there is a “crew store” it’s not usually a store you go in and walk around but rather it has a variety of supplies that the crew working at it will get for you from behind the counter. In my experience the crew store has washing powder, toothpaste, tampons/pads, shampoo, and then other things like crisps and candy bars.

Some crew are also able to shop from the passenger shops and often time there is a “crew shopping” night in the passenger shops (usually fairly late at night) for you to get any supplies you need (and fun things like watches and make-up that you might not need but want to spoil yourself with.)

Most of the supplies in the crew stores are smaller portions and fairly generic brands. For instance if you have any skin irritations you might not be able to get non-bio washing powder and there probably won’t be a lot of choices for shampoo/conditioner.

I would recommend bringing toiletry supplies that you will need for the first week or so. During that first week I would take a look at what the crew store has to offer and whether those particular supplies will work for you – if not, then get the address for the ship’s homeport from the crew officer and order some supplies online to get sent to the ship.

Now – about getting off the ship. I think that it makes sense to plan that you won’t be able to go ashore for this first contract. Right now is a super interesting time for the cruise industry, due to COVID some countries are allowing crew to go ashore in port but others aren’t and additionally some countries restrict shore leave during crew members first contracts because of immigration reasons.

I hope you have such a great time. If you have any other questions feel free to let me know. 🙂 Best of luck!

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Cruise Ship Crew - What to Pack for first timers

Working on a cruise ship is totally different environment than working on land. First thing you need to know is that most of the time you will be on duty. Second, the cabins are smaller than you can imagine, so you should pack only essential items that you will need. Third, don’t forget that you will buy plenty souvenirs from places you visit, gifts, and new clothes, especially if you visit ports in the U.S.A. We suggest you pack only one big luggage (most of us who have done more contracts, bring one and come back home with two pieces of luggage). Fourth, don’t forget that most of the time you will wear company uniform. You will be wearing your personal clothes only on your time off. Here are some of the most important items you will need to pack: - Alarm clock ( make sure it is a loud one and has options to program it for more than    one wake-up time). - At least 7-10 pairs of underwear. - 7-15 pairs of socks or pantyhose (for the ladies). - 7-10 white T-shirts (to wear under your uniform). - Photo camera. - Cell phone. - Pictures of your loved ones ( we highly recommend the digital frames which you can find in a electronic store because you can download more pictures of your loved ones and set the switch time. This will help with the space, not have to buy frames for every picture, and they use batteries, so it is not expensive to replace. If you are a fan of real pictures, then we recommend you get yourself light frames or find magnets so you can attach them next to your bed). - Laptop ( most of the ships have Internet and you can find free WiFi in most of the ports you will visit). - Bed sheet and pillow case ( ships provide this, but even though they have been washed and cleaned, you don’t know who used them last). - 2 pairs of pajamas. - 2 pairs of Jeans. - One dressy outfit (for special occasions or going out in the port). - Pair of sport shoes and a pair of dress shoes. - Shirts and T-shirts. - Swim suite and flip flops. - Beach, face, shower, and hand towel. - Baseball cap or hat. - Wrist watch (not expensive one though). - Vitamins. - Padlock (most of the cabins have safe locker where you can keep your valuables). - Toiletries (perfume, shaving cream, hair gel, razor, tooth brush, gels, deodorant, etc). - Small pack of detergent for washing your clothes (you can buy this from outside, but at least one small pack will be handy until you find a supermarket).

What not to bring - Cigarettes ( if you are a smoker you don’t need a lot of packs because the cigarettes on board are much cheaper than back home, but bring enough to last you few days until you find your place on the ship and manage to head to the gift shops). - Iron or other heating devices are strictly forbidden on any of the cruise ships due to high risk of fire (hair irons with low voltage for the ladies are not a high risk and you can bring one, but you can always buy one on one of the ports, so might want to hold on that one as well). - Alcohol (on most of the ships you are allowed to bring alcohol in the cabins, but it is forbidden to bring alcohol from outside. You can buy alcohol from the crew bar or the gift shops on board). - Knifes or any kind of weapons. - Medicine unless subscribed by doctor. Every ship has medical facility and they have usual medicine and drugs (the regular Advil, Tylenol, or any other over the counter precautionary drug is allowed).

If your ship goes in Alaska, Antarctica, Norway, Iceland, or any other low temperature places (these places are cold during the summer, too) don’t forget to bring few pieces of warm clothes. We hope that this advice will help you to can pack all of these items in one bag. Don’t forget that you are there to work most of the times very long hours – between 10-14 hours/day and 7 days/week.

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Ships & Ports

Passengers will soon pay more for a Princess cruise. Here's why.

Travelers can expect to pay more next time they sail with Princess Cruises .

The cruise line is raising its crew appreciation charge starting later this month. Passengers booked in suites will pay $19 per person, per day, up from $18, while fees for guests in mini suites, cabanas and Club Class accommodations will increase from $17 to $18. For guests in all other staterooms, the charge will jump from $16 to $17.

The increase will roll out to its fleet on the same schedule as updates to the line’s Princess Premier package , according to a spokesperson:

• Enchanted Princess on Aug. 31
• Majestic Princess and Sky Princess on Sept. 1
• Crown Princess on Sept. 2
• Ruby Princess on Sept. 3
• Grand Princess on Sept. 4
• Emerald Princess, Discovery Princess and Sun Princess on Sept. 7
• Caribbean Princess and Regal Princess on Sept. 12
• Royal Princess and Sapphire Princess on Sept. 14
• Island Princess on Sept. 25
• Diamond Princess on Sept. 26
• Coral Princess on Oct. 17

The charges are automatically added to guests’ onboard accounts but can be adjusted before disembarking. Princess previously raised its crew appreciation rates in February 2023.

Those fees, along with service charges on select purchases, are pooled and “distributed throughout the year in the form of compensation, including bonuses, to crewmembers fleetwide who interact directly with guests and/or behind the scenes throughout every cruise, including those in the Bar, Dining, Entertainment, Housekeeping, Guest Services, Galley and Onboard Revenue areas,” according to the line’s website .

Cruise lines periodically increase gratuity charges, usually in response to external factors like inflation or shifts in economic activity. “You look at the cost of hotels and transportation, fuel and food and everything else, and I think it's really just a normal response,” Danny Genung, CEO of travel agency Harr Travel, told USA TODAY in November . “You know, compensating employees, offsetting costs that have increased.”

Holland America Line also raised its crew appreciation charge in February, following similar moves from lines like Royal Caribbean International and Celebrity Cruises.

Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville. You can reach him at [email protected].

Princess Cruises just hiked a fee that some cruisers find outrageous

Bad news, Princess Cruises fans: You're about to pay more in fees to cruise with the line.

The world's fifth-largest cruise brand has quietly raised the daily service charge it levies on customers to its highest level in the history of the company.

The new rate for what Princess calls a "crew appreciation" fee is now $17 per person, per day for those staying in most cabins.

That's a 6.25% increase from the previous rate of $16 — more than twice the rate of inflation in the U.S. over the past year.

Princess last raised its service charge rate Dec. 14, 2022.

As part of the change, Princess also is raising its service charge for passengers staying in suites to $19 per person, per day — a 5.6% increase from the previous rate of $18.

Passengers staying in minisuites, cabanas and Club Class cabins will now pay $18 per person, per day — a 5.9% increase from the previous rate of $17.

The news of a service charge increase at Princess comes just six months after sister line Holland America pushed through a similar increase to its service charge rate. Holland America also currently charges $17 per day in service charges for passengers in most cabins and $19 per day for passengers in suites.

With the increase at Princess, a family of four in a typical cabin on one of the line's ships will pay nearly $500 in automatic gratuities on a seven-night cruise.

That puts Princess ahead of several of its key competitors when it comes to gratuity fees. Among other major lines, Carnival Cruise Line , Cunard Line , Windstar Cruises and MSC Cruises add $16 per person, per day in service charges to passenger bills for most cabins.

Celebrity Cruises and Royal Caribbean add $18 per person, per day, and Norwegian Cruise Line adds $20 per person, per day in such gratuities to passenger bills. Viking levies a $17 per person, per day service charge.

Related: Tipping on a cruise: What to know about cruise ship gratuities

Such sky-high service charges increasingly are a sore point for some cruisers, who see them as a veiled way for lines to hide the true cost of their sailings when posting their fares online.

In an explanation on its website, Princess says the money it collects from service charges is distributed to shipboard staff "in the form of compensation, including bonuses." In other words, the money is used to pay crew wages.

The recent fee hikes at Princess and Holland America come amid a surge in price hikes at cruise lines for all sorts of things, even as they cut back on service in some cases.

Rising fees at cruise lines

Most of the biggest cruise lines, such as Holland America, Royal Caribbean, Carnival and Norwegian, automatically add some sort of gratuity or service fee to passenger bills. Passengers often have the choice to prepay the fees when booking or have them added to their bill for onboard expenses, paid at the end of each sailing.

That said, the total number of lines with a service fee has been shrinking over the years. Many smaller and higher-end cruise operators have been folding these charges into their base fares.

Lines that now include gratuities in their fares include Azamara , Ponant Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises , Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours, Seabourn , SeaDream Yacht Club , Silversea Cruises and Virgin Voyages .

For those lines that do have them, service and gratuity charges are touted as a convenient alternative to the practice of cash tipping on ships — something that was once common.

The cruise lines with such charges typically increase their rates every year or two.

Note that, in some cases, passengers who are unhappy with the service they receive on Princess ships can adjust the amount of daily gratuities posted to their accounts while on board by visiting the Guest Services desk.

Related: The ultimate guide to Princess Cruises ships and itineraries

Adjustments are only allowed when gratuities are being charged to onboard accounts during sailings. Passengers who have prepaid gratuities cannot adjust the amount they have paid while on board.

The increase in service charge rates at Princess comes as the line pushes customers to buy a prepaid bundle of extras for sailings that include service charges, as well as dining in extra-charge specialty restaurants and a drinks package. The line recently added unlimited specialty dining and unlimited drinks to its top-tier bundle, which is called Princess Premier. At the same time, the line raised the fee for the Princess Premier bundle from $80 to $90 per person, per day.

Princess has been adding new fees across its ships as it pushes the bundles.

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