The Ultimate Cruise Packing List for Smooth Sailing
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Planning a cruise? Whether you’re heading to the Caribbean, the Mediterranean, or Alaska, packing smart makes all the difference. Cabins are small, outlets are limited, and port days can be long, but with just a few essentials, you’ll be ready for smooth sailing from embarkation to your final port.
After my own cruise experiences (and helping clients book as well!), I’ve rounded up my favorite must-haves to make your next cruise smooth sailing. These are the things that make cruising easier, more organized, and way more enjoyable.
Let’s dive in… here’s everything I recommend packing for your next cruise.
Cruise Cabin Essentials You’ll Be Glad You Packed
Cruise ship cabins are tiny and notoriously short on outlets, storage, and places to hang things. These essentials make your cabin instantly more functional:
Travel Documents & Essentials - This should be at the top of every cruise packing list! Don’t forget passports/IDs, cruise boarding documents, luggage tags and copies of your travel insurance!
Cruise-Approved Power Strip or Power Hub - Because one outlet in the whole room is never enough, especially if you’re charging phones, tablets, Apple Watches, cameras, and more.
Magnetic Hooks - Cruise cabin walls are metal, meaning these hooks turn your whole room into vertical storage. Hang backpacks, damp swimsuits, hats, lanyards… you name it.
Packing Cubes (Compression Recommended!) - They keep your clothes organized and save space in those small drawers. Plus, unpacking becomes a two-minute job.
Stasher Bags - Perfect for wet swimsuits, storing snacks, separating toiletries, or tossing in sandy flip-flops.
Lanyard or Wristband for Your Cruise Card - You’ll use your cruise card nonstop. Make it easy to access and impossible to lose.
Over-the-Door Organizer - This helps keep clothes organized so you don’t have to think about your outfits on the daily!
Nightlight - Unless you want to be stuck keeping the bathroom door open which isn’t fun unless you’re in steady seas!
Apple AirTags - This can help with any lost luggage!
Toy Ducks - If you’ve never cruised before, this might sound a little strange, but hiding rubber ducks around the ship has become a huge cruising tradition. Families and passengers decorate, tag, and hide small ducks for others to find, and it’s honestly one of the cutest ways to spread some joy on board. Kids love searching for them, adults get surprisingly competitive, and it’s a fun little way to make memories with strangers who quickly feel like friends.
Sun, Water & Pool Day Must-Haves
Port days and sea days mean sun and lots of it. These items keep you protected, comfortable, and ready for anything.
Reef-Safe Sunscreen - A must for the environment and for destinations that require it.
Lip Balm with SPF - Also a must for those who burn easily!
Wide-Brimmed Hat or Foldable Sun Visor - Packable, cute, and essential for all that ocean sunshine.
Insulated Water Bottle - Stay hydrated throughout long port days and hot pool decks.
Beach or Mesh Tote Bag - Lightweight, easy to shake out, and perfect for towels, sunscreen, and pool gear.
Waterproof Phone Pouch or Dry Bag - For beach days, boat excursions, and kayaking adventures. Keep your phone protected while still being able to take photos.
Towel Clips - Don’t lose your towel or your beach chair!
Kids Floaties - This will depend on your specific cruise line rules, but I find it’s more convenient to bring our own vs. rely on finding on the ship!
Apple iPad or Kindle - Have all your favorite books & games in one place!
Excursion & Day Trip Essentials
Whether you’re exploring a historic port, relaxing on a private island, or hiking to a viewpoint, these items make days ashore much easier:
Daypack or Sling Bag - Just big enough for water, sunscreen, snacks, and a camera.
Comfortable Walking Shoes - You’ll walk a lot on port days. Think broken-in sneakers or cushioned sandals.
Portable Charger - Essential for long days off the ship when you’re taking tons of photos and videos.
Waterproof Action Camera (Optional but Fun!) - Capture snorkeling, water sports, and epic ocean views hands-free.
Goggles or Snorkel Gear - Lots of beach clubs or tour companies will have these available for you; however, we like having our own that we know how to operate well!
Waterproof Portable Speaker - Great for a beach day excursion!
Binoculars - A must have for an Alaskan cruise!
Comfort & Wellness Must-Haves
Motion sickness and cruise ship noise can catch even experienced travelers off guard. These small additions make a big difference:
Motion Sickness Bands or Patches - Even if you don’t usually get seasick (pack them just in case!).
Small Sound Machine or Portable Speaker - Great for blocking hallway noise, helping kids sleep, or creating a relaxing cabin vibe.
Toiletries & Personal Care - Don’t overpack here because cruise bathrooms are tiny. But you can never forget the essentials!
First Aid Kit - Don’t forget bandaids, pain relievers, tums, electrolyte packets & more!
Clothing Essentials for Every Type of Cruise
Swimsuits + Cover-Up - Bring at least two so one can dry while you wear the other.
Water shoes - This can make or break, especially with kids, depending on which ports you are going to.
Casual Daywear - Think shorts, tees, sundresses… easy, comfortable, repeatable.
Pajamas - Highly recommend bringing your favorite pair to enjoy coffee on your balcony. ;-)
Evening Wear / Dressy Outfit - Most cruises have optional dressier dinners, so pack something elevated but still comfortable.
Theme Night Outfits - Every cruise has a different vibe, whether it’s the glow party or pirate night!
Flip-Flops + Casual Sandals + Dressier Shoes - You won’t need many shoes, but these three cover every scenario.
Lightweight Jacket or Layer - Sea breezes get cool at night, even in tropical climates.
Undergarments - duh. :-)
Rain Jacket or Poncho - Don’t get caught in a rain storm without one!
When it comes to packing for a cruise, a few simple strategies can make your entire trip so much easier. Rolling your clothes is an easy way to maximize space in the small cabin drawers, and it also helps keep things organized throughout your stay. Many ships offer laundry rooms or laundry services, so don’t feel like you need to overpack. You can always refresh outfits mid-sailing. It’s also a good idea to bring a small bag specifically for disembarkation morning so you’re not scrambling to collect last-minute items. And most importantly, keep all medications in your carry-on instead of your checked luggage to ensure they stay with you at all times.
With these final tips in mind, you’ll be well-prepared for a smooth, stress-free cruise from the moment you board to the moment you head back home. A little preparation goes a long way, and now you can focus on what really matters: relaxing, exploring, and making unforgettable memories at sea. Bon voyage!
If you’re ready to start planning your own unforgettable cruise adventure, I’d love to help you choose the perfect itinerary, ship, and stateroom for your family. Click here to get started or send me a message. I’d be thrilled to help you set sail!
