What do I need to go on a cruise?

Cruise Packing List: Your Ultimate Guide for What to Pack

Packing for a cruise can feel overwhelming, whether you're preparing for a 7-day Caribbean adventure, a 14-day journey through Australia, or an exciting Disney or Alaska voyage. Having a comprehensive cruise packing list is essential to ensure you’re ready for anything on your trip. From creating an Alaska cruise packing list printable for those chilly northern waters, to a Disney cruise packing list tailored for kids and adults alike, or a cruise packing checklist for couples exploring the Bahamas—each trip requires its own unique preparations.

For families, organizing a cruise packing list with toddlers or a packing list for kids can save time and stress. If you’re sailing with Carnival or Royal Caribbean, you’ll need specific cruise packing tips and tricks to cover all your bases, whether for a tropical Caribbean adventure or an Alaskan exploration. No matter the destination—be it a Disney cruise or a Bahamas getaway—this guide offers a tailored packing checklist for every type of cruise, ensuring you’re fully prepared for your voyage.

Packing for a cruise can be tricky, especially for first-timers who aren't exactly sure what they'll need. It becomes even more stressful when you're miles out at sea, far from any mall to pick up forgotten items.

What you need is a comprehensive packing list that covers cruise line dress codes for both day and evening wear, the activities you'll participate in both onboard and ashore, travel essentials, items to improve your cabin experience, and daily necessities for unexpected situations.

We've compiled  must-have items for your next cruise. Follow this guide to avoid packing mistakes and ensure you're prepared for anything on your upcoming sailing. Let us start right from here:

Daytime Clothing

Start with the basics: your daily outfits. On most cruise lines, daytime wear is casual, and big ships are quite relaxed about dress codes. However, upscale or luxury cruises lean toward more stylish daywear. A cheap tee might feel out of place in these settings. The destination and weather will also play a key role in what you'll need. For example, Caribbean cruises call for plenty of beachwear, while Alaskan voyages require rugged clothes and layers for unpredictable weather. If visiting religious sites in the Middle East or Asia, you might need attire that covers your shoulders and knees. No matter your destination, always be prepared for unseasonable weather. Pack a jacket for a Bahamas cruise or a short-sleeve top for an Arctic one, just in case. If you're planning to hit the gym or go biking at the port, don't forget workout clothes. Groups traveling together might want to coordinate matching outfits, especially for group photos. It’s common to see matching T-shirts or color-coordinated outfits for everyone in the family. Lastly, double-check that you packed underwear.

You can either pack an outfit for each day or plan to do laundry onboard.

Here’s a list of daywear essentials (adjust based on your trip length):

• T-shirts
• Casual tops
• Sundresses
• Shorts
• Jeans
• Slacks
• Underwear
• Socks
• Workout clothes
• Bathing suits
• Cover-up or swim shirt
• Jacket
• Sweater or sweatshirt

Evening Clothing

Some cruise lines, such as Norwegian, are laid-back about evening attire, while others have stricter dress codes. For upscale cruises, you’ll want to pack a few nice outfits. Evening wear generally falls into two categories: resort casual and formal. On casual nights, think date-night chic—some lines even allow jeans if paired with a nice top and shoes. On formal nights, cocktail dresses, suits, and jackets are common. If you’d rather skip dressing up, opt for room service or head to a casual dining area. Many luxury cruise lines enforce dress codes in certain venues, especially on formal nights. A pro tip: cruise ships tend to crank up the air conditioning in the evenings, so be sure to pack a light sweater or shawl. Theme nights are also common, with events like pirate or white night. Be sure to check with your cruise line in advance so you can pack the right costumes.

And of course, don’t forget pajamas—especially if you’re sharing a cabin with others.

Here’s a packing list for eveningwear:

• Dress or gown
• Skirt and blouse
• Pantsuit
• Sweater or wrap
• Button-down shirt or polo
• Dress slacks or jeans
• Sport coat
• Tie
• Formalwear (suit, tuxedo, or cocktail dress)
• Theme night attire
• Pajamas

Footwear

Shoes alone can fill an entire suitcase. The key is packing versatile footwear. Start with comfortable shoes for walking and exploring the ship. You’ll also need sneakers for gym activities, flip-flops for the pool, and dress shoes for evenings. Ladies, try to match your outfits so you only need one pair of heels. Depending on your plans, you might also need casual or athletic sandals, hiking boots, or water shoes for more rugged adventures. Pro tip: Lay out all your shoes, then pick the ones that can serve multiple purposes to save space. For example, waterproof athletic sandals are great for Caribbean cruises—they double as beach and activity shoes. 

Here’s your footwear checklist:

• Walking shoes or sneakers
• Flats
• Sandals
• Flip-flops
• Water shoes
• Hiking boots
• Evening dress shoes
• Slippers for cabin use

Accessories and Gear

For sunny cruises, don’t forget hats and sunglasses. Cold-weather cruises will require warmer items like gloves, scarves, and beanies. Certain regions, such as Antarctica, may have unique packing requirements, so check with your cruise line.

Accessories like belts, jewelry, and ties are must-haves for evening wear. Also, remember to bring a pashmina or shawl for chilly indoor areas. 

Here are some must-pack accessories:

• Belt
• Jewelry
• Sunglasses
• Hat (wide-brimmed or baseball cap)
• Rain jacket
• Warm hat, scarf, and gloves for colder destinations
• Shawl or pashmina

Toiletries and Medications

Cruise cabins often provide basics like soap and shampoo, but it’s always a good idea to pack your own toiletries. It’s tough to find your favorite brands in foreign ports, and onboard prices are often steep.

Pack more than you think you’ll need, and don’t forget essentials like sunscreen, bug spray, and hand sanitizer. If you’re prone to seasickness, bring remedies like patches or ginger candies. Don’t forget over-the-counter medications, as these can be expensive on the ship. Also, pack any prescription medications and a small first aid kit. 

Here’s your list of toiletries and medications:

• Shampoo and conditioner
• Hair products
• Toothpaste and toothbrush
• Razor and shaving cream
• Makeup and face wash
• Sunscreen and lip balm with SPF
• Hand sanitizer
• Bug spray
• Seasickness remedies
• Pain relievers (Tylenol, ibuprofen, etc.)
• Prescription meds (with extra)
• Band-aids and tissues

Travel Gear

If your cruise requires flying or driving to the port, don’t forget to pack for your journey. This includes long flights and pre-cruise hotel stays. Tech items like a tablet, video game system, and e-reader can help pass the time. Make sure to pack your chargers as well. Alternatively, bring a few books if you prefer to disconnect.

Also, don’t forget essential documents like your passport, tickets, and travel insurance information. A lanyard for your cruise card is also handy.

 Here’s a list of travel gear to pack:

• Neck pillow
• Headphones
• Tablet or e-reader
• Passport and travel documents
• Tote bag
• Small purse
• Water bottle
• Travel mug
• Lanyard

Cabin Enhancements

Enhancing your cruise cabin experience is easy with a few additional items. Since many cruise cabin walls are magnetic, pack magnetic clips to help organize your room. A power strip (without a surge protector) is essential for charging multiple devices, especially on older ships with limited outlets.

For a cozy nighttime ambiance, bring a nightlight or battery-operated candles. And for those with light sleepers in the cabin, a white noise machine can help block out any unwanted noise. Don't forget a laundry bag to keep dirty clothes separate and chair clips if you plan on drying clothes on your balcony.

  Here's your cabin enhancement list:

• Magnets
• Power strip (no surge protection)
• Night light
• White noise machine
• Laundry bag
• Chair clips

Port Day Gear

For days off the ship, tailor your packing to your shore excursions. A lightweight backpack is perfect for carrying all your port-day essentials.

Beach destinations might require snorkeling gear, a beach bag, and water-resistant bags for wet items. For adventure-focused excursions, consider packing a dry bag to protect electronics and valuables.

  Here’s what to pack for port days:

• Backpack
• Camera and accessories
• Dry bag
• Snorkel gear
• Beach toys for kids
• Binoculars
• Travel towels
• Packaged snacks for excursions

Miscellaneous Items

A few other essential items don't fit into any category but are still important. If you're a wine enthusiast, many lines allow you to bring a bottle or two onboard—just be ready to pay a corkage fee if you drink it at a restaurant.

Download your cruise line’s app for easy access to ship information, schedules, and more. And always carry small bills for tipping or making small purchases in port. 

Here are a few more things to pack:

• Cell phone and chargers
• Cruise line app downloaded
• Cash (small bills for tips)
• Credit card without foreign transaction fees

What Not to Pack

It’s just as important to know what to leave behind. Many items, such as weapons and illegal drugs (including marijuana and CBD), are banned on cruise ships. Additionally, leave unnecessary items like towels, coffeemakers, and extension cords at home.

Final Thoughts

While it’s easy to overpack clothes and shoes, people often forget essential accessories and medications. Use this list to guide your packing process and make sure you're fully prepared for your next cruise!

Looking to book your next unforgettable adventure? 

Check out the top cruise lines, including Disney Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, Carnival, MSCCruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises, Princess Cruises, VirginVoyages for exclusive deals and special offers.!