Packing List for a Cruise: Tips + Tricks For Smooth Sailing
Planning your first cruise or your fifth? Packing smart can totally change your trip. This simple cruise packing list gives you all the must-haves, helpful tips, and Amazon finds to keep your bags light and your days stress-free.
Before we get into it: cruises are fun, chill, and full of surprises. But with limited cabin space and different dress codes, it helps to plan ahead.
Know Your Itinerary
Beach stops? Cold ports? Dress codes?
Before you pack, check:
- Destinations and weather because the Caribbean means you need swimsuits, but Alaska means layers.
- Excursions – Will you be hiking, snorkeling, walking a lot?
- Cruise line dress codes – Some require dinner outfits or closed-toe shoes in dining rooms
Everyday Cruise Essentials
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- T-shirts + tanks – Light and comfy for sea days
- Swimwear (2–3 sets) – So one is always dry
- Cover-up or sarong – Great for walking around the ship
- Shorts + casual pants – Daytime basics
- Sundresses or casual dresses – For dinner or walks
- Light sweater or hoodie – Indoor areas can be chilly
- Dressy outfit – One for formal nights or fancier restaurants
- Comfy shoes – Flip-flops + sneakers or sandals
Cruise-Specific Must-Haves
- Magnetic hooks – Cabin walls are metal, use them to hang hats, bags, or towels
- Over-the-door organizer – Saves space in your small bathroom
- Lanyard for key card – You’ll use it nonstop
- Power strip (non-surge) – Most cabins have only 1–2 outlets
- Towel clips – Keep your towel on the chair while you chill
Toiletries + Health
Cruise bathrooms are small, so keep it minimal:
- Toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant – Daily basics
- Motion sickness bands or pills – Even calm seas can surprise you
- Sunscreen + aloe – Ocean sun hits harder
- Mini first-aid kit – Band-aids, pain relief, allergy meds
- Bug spray – For beach excursions
Tech + Travel Gear
- Phone charger + power bank – For long excursions
- Waterproof phone pouch – For beach days or boat tours
- Camera or GoPro – You’ll want to capture the views
- Headphones or earbuds – For music while you chill
Tips + Tricks for Cruise Life
- Roll your clothes – Saves space and reduces wrinkles
- Pack a reusable water bottle – Stay hydrated
- Bring a small day bag – For beach or excursion days
- Download cruise apps + offline maps – Wi-Fi can be expensive
- Label your luggage – Cruise tags help your bags find you fast
- Pack a swimsuit in your carry-on – So you can swim right after boarding
Extras Worth Bringing
- Foldable laundry bag – For dirty clothes
- Travel fan or cooling towel – Helps with hot port days
- Ziplock bags – For wet swimsuits or snacks
- Notebook or journal – Jot down highlights or bucket list ideas
Final Thoughts: Float Free, Pack Smart
Cruises are about freedom, fun, and finding new places. This packing list helps you skip the stress and start exploring, whether you're sailing to the Caribbean, the Med, or Alaska.
Follow us on social media @stripedflamingo for more cruise tips, packing hacks and more.
FAQ: Cruise Packing
Do I need formal wear? Some cruise lines have formal nights. One nicer outfit is usually enough.
Can I bring my own drinks? Check your cruise line’s policy if you are allowed to bring your own drinks, some allow limited wine or soda.
What if I get seasick? Bring meds that help with seasickness. Better safe than sorry.
Can I use regular power strips? Only non-surge protected power strips. Check your cruise rules.
How many swimsuits should I bring? You should bring at least 2–3 swimsuits, so you always have a dry one.
Are towels provided? Yes towels are provided, but towel clips help keep yours from flying away on windy decks!