I have cruised over 20 times. Take these things and avoid these ones.

Packing for a cruise can be challenging since you need to prepare for different climates and have limited storage space. Unlike a regular vacation, you can’t easily run to a store for things you forgot. After nearly 30 cruises, I’ve learned how to pack smartly and comfortably, even at the last minute. Here are some essentials to bring and items you can leave at home to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.

Essential Items to Bring to a Cruise

1. Bring Your Own Games

Card and board games are perfect for cold or rainy days or even a quiet evening in your cabin. While many ships have game rooms, they can get crowded, and your favorite games might not be available. Bringing your own games ensures you have something to entertain yourself and your travel companions. Games like cards, compact board games, or travel-sized versions of classics are great choices because they don’t take up much space.

2. Dress for the Occasion

Packing the right clothes is crucial for a cruise, as the dress code can vary depending on the activity and location. While casual attire is generally acceptable, most cruises have at least one formal night in the dining room where more elegant clothing is required. It’s essential to check the cruise itinerary beforehand to know how many formal outfits to bring. For men, a suit or a blazer with dress pants and a tie is appropriate, while women can opt for a cocktail dress or a dressy outfit. Remember that some cruises also have themed parties, such as a 70s night or a white party, where guests are encouraged to dress according to the theme. Packing for these events can add fun to your cruise experience.

3. Pack a Casual Bag

An extra bag for day trips, beach visits, or lounging by the pool is invaluable. A lightweight, foldable tote bag or a small backpack works well. It should be durable enough to handle sand and water and be something you wouldn’t mind leaving unattended for a short while. This bag can hold your sunscreen, book, water bottle, and any other essentials you need while relaxing.

4. Chair Towel Clips

These small, often overlooked items can significantly improve your comfort on the pool deck. On windy days, towels can easily blow away, causing unnecessary frustration. Chair towel clips are a simple solution to keep your towel secure on the lounge chair. They’re lightweight, easy to pack, and can be a lifesaver in ensuring your towel stays put, letting you relax without constant readjustments.

5. Pharmacy Items

While cruise ships often have a small store with basic medical supplies, it’s wise to bring your own pharmacy items. This includes any necessary prescription medications, as well as over-the-counter options like pain relievers, allergy medication, and motion sickness pills. Sunscreen is a must-have to protect your skin from strong sun exposure. A small first-aid kit with band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and any other essentials can also be helpful. It’s more convenient and cost-effective to come prepared rather than buying these items on board at a premium price. These are the most essential items to pack for a cruise.

6. Reusable Water Bottle

Hydration is crucial, especially when spending time in the sun. While the ship offers water, it often comes in small cups, which can be inconvenient. Bringing a large, insulated reusable water bottle allows you to keep water cold and refreshing. It’s also environmentally friendly and saves you from repeatedly standing in line for water. If your cruise line doesn’t include drinks in the package, a reusable bottle can help you avoid extra costs for bottled water.

7. Cash for Tips

Most cruise lines operate on a cashless system, where your room key doubles as a credit card for onboard purchases. However, having cash on hand is useful for tipping service staff, such as waiters, bartenders, and housekeeping. While gratuities are often automatically added to your bill, additional cash tips can show appreciation for exceptional service. It’s also convenient for tipping porters and local guides during excursions. Since ATMs on board can have high fees and long lines, bringing cash from home is advisable.

8. Reading Material

Even though many ships have libraries, they might not have a wide selection of books. Bringing your own reading material ensures you have something you enjoy. Whether it’s a physical book, an e-reader, or a tablet loaded with e-books, make sure to download everything before boarding, as Wi-Fi on ships can be unreliable and slow. This is especially true for long cruises where having a good book can be a great way to unwind.

9. Pack a Jacket

Even if you’re heading to a warm destination, it’s wise to pack for cooler weather. The pool deck can become chilly in the evening or on windy days, and the air conditioning inside the ship can make dining rooms and theaters quite cool. A lightweight jacket or sweater is essential for staying comfortable. It also adds a layer of protection against unexpected weather changes, ensuring you’re prepared for all situations.

10. Skip the Lanyard

While many cruise blogs suggest bringing a lanyard or key wallet to hold your room key, there are more discreet options. A sticky wallet that attaches to the back of your phone can be a convenient alternative. It keeps your key card, credit card, and other small essentials in one place. This way, you don’t have to worry about carrying a separate item around your neck or in your pocket.

Items to not Bring to a Cruise

1. Leave Appliances at Home

Cruise lines typically have strict policies regarding certain appliances like steamers, irons, and even some hairstyling tools due to safety concerns. These items may be confiscated if found during the boarding process. Instead, consider bringing travel-sized wrinkle-release spray for clothing. Spray it on your clothes once you unpack, and give it time to work its magic. Most cruise lines also offer laundry services, including pressing, if you need something ironed.

2. No Need for a Blow Dryer

Most cruise cabins come equipped with a small blow dryer. While it might not be the most powerful, it usually suffices for basic hair drying. Unless you have specific styling needs that require a particular tool, leave your full-sized blow dryer at home to save space. If you need a special hairstyling device, check the cruise line’s policies beforehand to ensure it’s allowed.

3. Don’t Pack Towels

Cruise ships provide towels for pool use and at beach stops, so there’s no need to pack bulky towels in your suitcase. This frees up space for other essentials. Some cruises, especially those to colder destinations like Alaska, also offer blankets on the pool deck for extra warmth. If you prefer your towel, consider a compact, quick-dry travel towel that takes up minimal space.

4. Minimize Toiletries

Most cruise ships provide basic toiletries like shampoo, conditioner, and soap. You can leave these behind and instead focus on packing personal essentials like deodorant, razors, hairbrushes, and any specific skincare products you use. This helps save space in your luggage for more important items. If you’re picky about your hair care products, consider bringing travel-sized versions of your favorites.

Conclusion

By carefully selecting what to bring and what to leave at home, you can make the most of your cruise experience without the burden of overpacking. Remember, the goal is to be comfortable and prepared for the unique environment of a cruise ship while maximizing the limited space in your cabin. Happy cruising!