Cruise Packing List for First-Timers: 37 Things You Need to Bring for an Unforgettable Voyage
While some experience the first-timer’s excitement for new destinations, luxurious accommodations and endless activities.
But as with anything, the best way to get the most out of your cruise is to be prepared.
Packing for a cruise is slightly different than for your average vacation, since you’ll have to think of everything from formal dinners to casual shore excursions to lounging on deck.
To help you confidently set out on your first cruise, I’ve created the ultimate cruise packing list.
This definitive guide covers all the essentials of what you should pack to be prepared for what your trip has in store for you, whether it’s a romantic getaway, a family vacation or a solo trip.
So, let’s do this and get packing!
1. Important Documents: You Don’t Want to Leave Home Without These
Why They’re Important:
Before you even consider what clothes to bring, be sure to have all the necessary paperwork.
These are essential for boarding your cruise and going ashore at ports of call.
What to Pack:
Passport and ID: Having a passport is a wise choice even if your cruise never leaves the country, particularly for emergencies.
Cruise tickets: Print your boarding pass and any other materials the cruise line provided.
Travel Insurance Information: It’s always a good idea to have travel insurance, more so on a cruise. Please have your policy information and contact numbers.
Healthcare Documentation: You may require vaccination records or COVID-19 testing results depending on where you’re headed.
Credit/Debit Cards and Cash: Most cruise lines are cashless, but you may want cash on hand for tips and local purchases during shore excursions.
Pro Tip:
Pack all your important papers in a waterproof, zippered pouch in your carry-on bag.
That way, they’re safe from accidental spills or rain, and easy to access.
2. Wardrobe Staples, Day to Night
Why They’re Important:
There is a range of activities on cruises, from casual pool lounging to formal sit-down dinners, making it important to bring clothes you can wear for multiple settings.
What to Pack:
Casual Daywear: Think breezy outfits for exploring the ship or heading out on excursions — like shorts, T-shirts and sundresses.
Swimwear: Bring at least two bathing suits so you always have a dry one ready. A cover-up for walking around the ship.
Evening Wear: Most cruises have formal nights, so bring at least one dressy outfit. Men may want to invest in a suit or blazer, while women should look at a cocktail dress or smart pantsuit.
Comfortable Shoes: You will walk a lot, both on the ship and during excursions. You may prefer comfortable walking shoes, pool sandals and dress shoes for evening.
Layering: It can be cold, even in warm climates, at night or inside the ship. A light jacket or cardigan is essential.
Pro Tip:
Review your cruise line’s dress code prior to packing. Others are more relaxed, and there can be dress codes for evening events.
3. Toiletries and Beauty: Feel Fresh at Sea
Why They’re Important:
Although cruise ships do have basic toiletries, it’s always nice to have your own for comfort and convenience.
What to Pack:
Shampoo, Conditioner, and Body Wash: Travel-sized containers work best for space saving, though bring enough for the cruise length.
Toothbrush and Toothpaste: Make sure to bring dental floss and mouthwash for a full oral hygiene regimen.
Sunscreen: The sun is brutal on the water, so pack reef-safe high-SPF sunscreen to shield your skin.
Medications: Bring prescription medications, in their original bottles — plus over-the-counter essentials like pain relievers, seasickness remedies and antihistamines.
Makeup and Skincare: If you wear makeup, pack those basics and a quality moisturizer, since salty sea air can be drying.
Razor and Shaving Cream: For both men and women, these are essentials if you want to stay groomed while on the road.
Pro Tip:
Anti-leak: Use a waterproof bag to pack your toiletries. A small, hanging toiletry bag can also be a helpful way to access limited space — the bathroom on the ship can often be the size of a closet.
4. Electronics and Gadgets for Your Daily Needs
Why They’re Important:
Even if you’re just taking a nice cruise, the right electronics make capturing memories and staying in touch with loved ones easy.
What to Pack:
Smartphone: To snap pictures, maintain connectivity and use cruise apps to view daily itineraries and reserve activities.
Camera: If you are keen on photography, carry a camera to click good-quality pictures of your trip.
Chargers and Power Banks: Chargers for all your devices and a portable power bank for excursions.
Reader or Tablet: Great for reading by the pool or in your cabin. Fill it with books and movies and music before you drift away.
Headphones: To listen to music or podcasts when you are not in the mood to read.
Power Strip: The cruise cabins often have minimal outlets. A small, non-surge power strip can be a lifesaver.
Pro Tip:
If you’re coming from another country, contact your cruise line for information about the types of power outlets and voltage onboard the ship so you know to bring the right adapters.
5. Extra Products and Guides — Essential Accessories for a Smooth Cruise
Why They’re Important:
Here’s a look at those often-overlooked items that will make your cruise experience a lot more comfortable and convenient.
What to Pack:
Reusable Water Bottle: This will help you not only keep hydrated but also prevent you from buying bottled water.
Keycard Lanyard: The majority of cruise ships operate on a keycard system to access rooms and purchases. A lanyard holds it close and safe.
Beach Bag: A lightweight, packable bag is ideal for shore excursions or trips to the pool.
Laundry Bag: Separate dirty clothes, and it will be easier to pack for the trip home.
Binoculars: Great for whale watching, searching for distant islands, or just enjoying the view from your balcony.
Magnetic Hooks: Most cruise cabins have metal walls—use magnetic hooks to make additional hanging space for hats, jackets or swimwear.
Pro Tip:
Bring a small first aid kit that includes band-aids, antiseptic wipes and blister pads — useful for minor injuries on board or when you’re out on shore excursions.
6. Entertainment and Downtime: Avoid Boredom
Why They’re Important:
Cruises are packed with activities, but there is also plenty of downtime.
Pack some entertainment for the downtime.
What to Pack:
Books or Magazines: Even if you’re bringing an e-reader, a few physical books or magazines are nice to have for the poolside.
Travel Games: Cards, travel–sized board games, etc. can be great for family bonding or befriending fellow travelers on board.
Journal or Sketchbook: A journal or sketchbook where you can capture thoughts, doodles or travel memories.
Crossword Puzzles or Sudoku Perfect for getting your mind engaged when you find yourself with a quiet moment.
Pro Tip:
Or, download a few offline games or apps on your smartphone so you can play without Wi-Fi.
7. Adventures Ashore: Your Guide to Shore Excursions
Why They’re Important:
Shore excursions are one of the highlights of any cruise, but you’ll need a bit of extra planning to make sure you`re ready to go for every adventure.
What to Pack:
Pack for The Day: Superb lightweight daypack for your essentials when visiting places.
Sun-protection Cream: Skin-protection lotions are important for outdoor visits, particularly in tropical destinations.
Swimming Gear: If you’ll be swimming while on your excursion, pack swimwear, goggles and a quick-dry towel.
Waterproof Phone Case: Protect your phone from sand and water while snapping photos on the beach or during water adventures.
Snacks: It’s good to have snacks on board, such as granola and granola bars, nuts or trail mix, especially if your trip is long or does not include meals.
Pro Tip:
A small sum of local currency for tipping or small purchases during your excursions — some venues may not accept credit cards.
Final thought: Off we go—your cruise packing checklist is now ready
Packing for your first cruise may seem daunting, but with this all-inclusive checklist, you’ll be ready to hit the seas!
From key documents to evening clothes and equipment for shore excursions, you have everything that you need now in order to make the trip as seamless and fun as possible.
When you are well prepared it allows you to focus on what really matters − relaxing, exploring and creating memories!
So check your list twice, zip your suitcase tight, and prepare for the experience of a lifetime at sea.
