Cruise packing list: what to pack, and what to leave at home

Cruise packing is different from other trips. You have a cabin with limited storage, a mix of warm and formal evenings, and a day in port every day or two. The aim is to pack enough for all of that, without paying for extra bags.

Documents and money

• Passport, with at least six months left, as many countries require. A passport is the safest choice even where other proof is allowed.
• Cruise documents, boarding passes and luggage tags. Many lines issue these online.
• Photo ID, a credit card and a little cash in the currency of your ports.
• Travel insurance details, and the contact numbers for your cruise line. See cruise insurance.
• Any visas or entry forms needed for your route.

Clothes

• Days. Light, quick-drying clothes, a swimsuit and a cover-up, shorts, comfortable walking shoes and sandals.
• Evenings. Smart casual for most dining rooms. Some lines have a formal night or specialty restaurants with a dress code, so check yours.
• Layers. Ships are cooled and decks can be windy. A light jacket and a sweater help in every region.
• Cold routes. For Alaska, add waterproofs, a hat and gloves. See Alaska cruises.
• Sun. Hat, sunglasses and sunscreen. Reef-safe sunscreen is often required in marine areas.

Cabin and day-bag extras

• A power strip without a surge protector, if the line allows it. Many lines ban surge-protected strips, so check the rules.
• Magnetic hooks, which stick to cabin walls and are handy on steel surfaces.
• A small day bag, a refillable bottle and a dry bag for beach days.
• Motion sickness remedies, and a basic medical kit.
• A copy of key documents, kept apart from the originals.
• A phone plan that works in port. See our eSIM guide.

What not to pack

Every line publishes a list of banned items, which commonly include irons, kettles, candles, drones and some kinds of alcohol. Rules differ, so read your line's list before you pack. Weapons and illegal goods are not allowed.

How to pack light

Pick a few colours that mix and match, and wear the bulkiest items on travel day. Pack the first night's clothes and medicine in your carry-on, in case your suitcase arrives late to the cabin. Check your flight's allowance too. Our pack light guide and baggage allowances guide can help.

Planning the rest? Read our first-time cruise guide, and compare sailings by cruise line or destination on CruiseDirect.

Frequently asked questions

How many outfits do I need for a cruise?

Fewer than you think. Plan mix-and-match pieces, and use the laundry or a laundry service on longer trips.

Is there a dress code?

Most lines have casual days and a few smarter evenings. Some have a formal night. Check your line's guidance.

Can I bring my own alcohol or snacks?

Policies differ by line. Many limit or ban alcohol brought on board and allow sealed snacks. Read the rules before you go.

Do I need a power adapter?

Many ships have both US-style and European-style outlets, but not always. Check your ship's details, and bring a plug adapter if unsure.

What should be in my carry-on?

Documents, medicine, a swimsuit, a change of clothes and chargers. Your suitcase can arrive hours after you board.

FinalAirfare may earn a commission if you book through the partner links on this page, at no extra cost to you. Rules differ by cruise line, so check your line's current guidance. We are not affiliated with any cruise line.