20 Essential Items to Pack for Your Dream Cruise Vacation
Embarking on a cruise is an exciting adventure, offering a unique blend of relaxation, exploration, and entertainment. However, packing for a cruise can be challenging, especially for first-timers. To ensure you have everything you need for a fantastic voyage, we've compiled a list of the 20 best things to pack for your cruise. Whether you're sailing to the Caribbean, Alaska, or the Mediterranean, these items will help you make the most of your trip.
Passport and Travel Documents First and foremost, ensure you have your passport and all necessary travel documents. This includes your cruise tickets, boarding passes, and any visas required for your ports of call. Keep these in a waterproof document holder for easy access and protection.
Seasickness Remedies Even if you've never experienced motion sickness before, it's wise to be prepared. Pack over-the-counter medications like Dramamine or natural remedies such as ginger candies or acupressure wristbands.
Versatile Clothing Cruise ships often have various dress codes for different activities and venues. Pack a mix of casual wear for daytime activities, smart-casual outfits for evenings, and at least one formal outfit for special nights. Don't forget comfortable walking shoes for shore excursions.
Swimwear and Cover-ups Most cruises feature pools, hot tubs, and beach excursions. Pack at least two swimsuits so you always have a dry one ready. Include cover-ups or lightweight clothing to wear over your swimwear when moving around the ship.
Sun Protection The sun can be intense at sea, so pack high-SPF sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat. These items are crucial for protecting your skin and eyes during outdoor activities and excursions.
Reusable Water Bottle Stay hydrated without constantly buying bottled water by bringing a reusable water bottle. Many cruise ships have water stations where you can refill your bottle throughout the day.
Day Bag or Backpack A small backpack or tote is essential for carrying your essentials during shore excursions or when lounging by the pool. Look for one that's water-resistant and comfortable to carry.
Power Strip and Adapters Cruise ship cabins often have limited electrical outlets. Pack a small power strip to charge multiple devices simultaneously. If you're cruising internationally, bring appropriate power adapters.
Toiletries and Medications While most ships provide basic toiletries, you may prefer your own. Don't forget any prescription medications, and consider bringing over-the-counter remedies for common ailments like headaches or indigestion.
Evening Wear Accessories For formal nights or special events, pack appropriate accessories like jewelry, ties, or dress shoes. These small items can elevate your outfit without taking up much luggage space.
Light Jacket or Sweater Even in warm destinations, ships can be chilly due to air conditioning. A light jacket or sweater will keep you comfortable in cooler areas of the ship or during breezy evening walks on deck.
Laptop, Tablet, or E-reader While you might want to disconnect, having a device for entertainment during downtime can be nice. Load it with books, movies, or games for sea days or quiet evenings in your cabin.
Waterproof Phone Case Protect your smartphone from water damage with a waterproof case. This is especially useful for beach excursions or activities near the pool.
Portable Fan Some cruise cabins can get warm, especially those without windows. A small, battery-operated fan can help circulate air and keep you comfortable while sleeping.
Wrinkle Release Spray Cruise ship cabins rarely have irons due to fire safety regulations. A wrinkle release spray can help keep your clothes looking fresh throughout the trip.
Lanyard Many cruise lines use key cards for cabin access and onboard purchases. A lanyard keeps your card easily accessible and reduces the risk of losing it.
Binoculars Whether you're whale watching in Alaska or admiring coastal scenery in the Mediterranean, a pair of compact binoculars can enhance your viewing experience.
Insect Repellent If your cruise includes tropical destinations, pack insect repellent to protect against mosquitoes and other bugs during shore excursions.
Fitness Gear Most cruise ships have well-equipped gyms. If you plan to work out, pack appropriate fitness attire and shoes. Resistance bands are a great space-saving alternative to weights for in-cabin exercises.
Zip-lock Bags These versatile bags have countless uses on a cruise. Use them to keep electronics dry, organize small items, or pack wet swimwear on your departure day.
Bonus Tip: Packing Cubes While not an item to pack, using packing cubes can revolutionize your cruise packing strategy. These organizers help compress clothing and keep your suitcase tidy, making it easier to find what you need without unpacking everything.
Remember, while it's important to be prepared, try not to overpack. Most cruise ships offer laundry services, and you'll want to leave some space in your luggage for souvenirs. Check your cruise line's specific policies regarding prohibited items, as these can vary between companies and destinations.
By packing these 20 essential items, you'll be well-prepared for your cruise adventure. From practical necessities to comfort-enhancing extras, this list covers all the bases to ensure you have a memorable and stress-free vacation at sea. Bon voyage!
DISCLAIMER: Links included in on this website might be affiliate links. If you purchase a product or service with the links that Out Of Office Destinations, LLC provides, we may receive a small commission. Out Of Office Destinations, LLC participates in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.ย
However, there is no additional charge to you! Thank you for supporting our small business.
ย Cut down on boarding time and luggage confusion with our luggage tags for cruise ships. These cruise accessories must-haves ensure your luggage is routed safely to your cabin so you can start your vacation sooner.ย
PRO TIP: These are much more secure than stapling/tapping the luggage tagย
PRO TRCIK: On disembark day, just flip your luggage tag inside out (so the white is facing out)ย and place your new luggage zone number inside. Again this is more secure than looping the zone tag.
These hooks work great for everyday around the house and Cruises.ย
PRO TIP: Most walls and doors on a Cruise ship are magnetic and this help reduce clutter. We've also found hundreds of uses for these around the house, like on the back of the door going garage to hold our car keyย
The original and still the best. Travel with confidence when you choose authentic products from WineSkin, the leader in bottle transport bags. WineSkin is perfect for luggage since it features WineSkin's classic, brand-name, double-adhesive seal.ย
PRO TIP: Most Cruise Line allow you to take a 750 ml bottle of wine per traveling adult, but let's make sure that they are protected
"Small and Cute: these mini wine bottle openers are designed in the shape of mini bottles, designed with small and cute appearance, 6 colors for you to choose, colorful and eye catching, both practical and decorative"
"Effortless to Operate: the portable wine opener is detachable and compact for safe operation and easy to carry; When using, just remove the corkscrew shell, and then plug it into the hole in the head of the corkscrew, to form a crossbar with the corkscrew, which is easy to open the bottle, safe and reliable to use"
"Quality Material for Your Using: our portable corkscrews are made of quality plastic and stainless steel, the corkscrew is made of stainless steel, hard and sturdy, strong and serviceable, not easy to rust or deform, the handle is made of plastic, comfortable to grip, can serve you for a long time"
PRO TIP: Avoid the cork fee in restaurants or MDR by bringing your own opener
ใ 35 Pocket Holds the Most! ใ Hanging shoe organizer has the great amount of pockets, unlike other behind door shoe rack that only has 24 or 28 pockets this has 35 pockets! You could use this for the whole family, save lots of spaces. Product dimension is 68.5" H x 24.5" W, fits 99.9% of standard doors
PRO TIP: hang over the bathroom door to help organize your stateroom
ELEGANT SIMPLICITY: This slim watch boasts a fashion and minimalist design, unisex style perfect for both men and women seeking a sophisticated timepiece.
ULTRA-THIN PROFILE: With ultra-thin 7mm thickness dial with rounded all black watch case, unique and eye-catching, itโs the best gift choice.
MOVEMENT: Powered by Japanese imported quartz analog movement and battery, ensures precise time and long-term running.
3ATM WATERPROOF: Designed for everyday wear, this watch is 30m waterproof, can withstand daily splash or short immersion in water, but not swimming and showering, diving or snorkeling.
PRO TIP: Make Sure that you stay on ship time
The first layer can store 6 passport holders inside and outside, the second layer can be folded into 6 PVC pockets, the third layer has 5 card slots and a boarding pass card slot, a cash zipper pocket, a PVC pocket, and the overall design can store 6 passports, 5 credit cards, a boarding pass, a cash pocket, and 7 multi-functional PVC pockets.ย
Dramamine Motion Sickness Less Drowsy tablets relieve motion sickness symptoms with less drowsiness for up to 24 hours
Long-lasting formula that treats and prevents nausea, dizziness and vomiting; a must have for your vacation essentials
Treat symptoms on the spot and anywhere with a convenient, safety Travel Vial that fits with your travel essentials
Dramamine is the number 1 pharmacist-recommended brand*; *Named by Pharmacy Times and U.S. News & World Report as number 1 Pharmacist-Recommended Brand for 2022 Motion Sickness Remedies Category
Revolutionary Sun Cream :: Moisturizing SPF 50 reef safe sunscreen, water-resistant for up to 80 minutes whether in the sand, sun, sea or surf. Strong broad spectrum protection from both UVA / UVB rays to help protect against sun burn and DNA damage. PA+++
Coral Reef Safety :: Reef Repair sun cream is a (non nano) Zinc Oxide based reef safe sunscreen that is 100% Oxybenzone free, Octinoxate free & completely chemical free. Safe for marine and aquatic life including our delicate coral reefs, designed to protect!
PRO TIP: Some Port of Calls require Sunscreen to be Reef Safe
40oz stainless steel, insulated bottle
2-in-1, Splash-Resistant lid with Removeable straw, lets you sip or swig
Double-wall insulation keeps drinks colder longe
Wide opening for cleaning and adding ice
BPA, lead, and phthalate-free, Dishwasher-safe lid and hand-washable cup
PRO TIP: Most cups on the cruise ships are small
PRO TRICK: If your ship has a self serve beer stations. Grab a cup from there, most of the time they are larger cups
For Stanley Quencher 40 oz Cup Sleeve comes with a removable and adjustable padded shoulder strap, the shoulder strap can be easily adjusted between 27.5" and 50" to fit a wide range of body shapes. The water bottle holder for stanley accessories 40 oz tumbler is designed with two front pocket designs that provide plenty of room for all your personal belongings such as smartphones, cash, cards,keys,etc.ย
PRO TIP: Clip your sail and Sign card on this, for all-in-one bottle holder, cell phone holder and card holder for walking around the ship
HIGH QUALITY SILICONE STRAWS REUSABLE - We only use food grade,silicone. Our straws are easy on your teeth without the worry that comes with other materials AND they are kid friendly
EXTRA WIDE - These are the PERFECT straw for smoothies and milkshakes. Their diameter is extra wide for consuming your favorite thick beverages
USE WITH TUMBLERS - Our reusable silicone straws are compatible with RTIC, tervis, and YETI 30-40 oz tumblers. Use them for your favorite cold or hot drinks
PRO TIP: Most Cruise Line switched to edible straws
Foldable & Lightweight-- Minimalist Designed. The ultra-lightweight shoulder bag. Save your space to fold into its built-in pouch as a Sandwich size. (Note: No extra pouch carry with). Easily pack it in your suitcase or purse
Roomy 20L Capacity--Keep things organized. Unfold size : 16.5*11.8*6.3inch(L*W*H). Three zippered compartments. The main pocket is Large enough to hold ipad and clothes. Outer smaller pockets are great for quick access such as tissue and keys. An inner zippered pocket is a perfect place for travel essentials such as cash, credit cards, and passport. Two large sides mesh pockets for water bottles or umbrella
Travel Adapter/Power Strip (more than 150 countries and regions). Includes 3 types of international adapters. Works great for Cruise ship, because most have European outlets
PRO TIP: if you travel with a CPAP, it helps keep the cord under the bed and still allows you to use the side lamp.
KITS INCLUDE: National Brand Grooming, Hygiene and Oral Care Travel-Size Toiletries in Reusable Zippered, Clear, Dopp and Cosmetic Bags. Popular Brands Inside Kits Include: Hair Care: Loreal, Panten, TRESemm, Herbal Essences, John Freida Frizz Ease, Giovanni, Axe, Dove Men & Care, Suave Natural Skin and Body Care: Dove, Nivea, Jergens, Eucerin, Palmers, Axe, Dove Men & Care, Nivea Men, Dude Products, Degree, Secret, Schmidtโs Natural, Andalou, Old Spice Swagger, Barbasol, Gillette, Edge Oral Care: Crest, Colgate, Dentek, Oral B, Tomโs of Maine and Preserve.
TRAVEL ESSENTIALS: This 20-piece travel kit contains the following travel size toiletries and travel accessories: Barbasol Shave Cream, Gillette Good News Disposable Razor, Dove for Men 2 in 1 Shampoo + Conditioner, Dove for Men Antiperspirant Deodorant, Gold Bond Powder, lip balm (assorted flavors), comb, Crest Toothpaste, Colgate Adult Soft Toothbrush, toothbrush cap, Colgate Total Mouthwash, Dentek Dental Flossers, Advil Caplets, Curad Finger Strip Bandages, toe nail clipper with file and vanity pack (cotton swabs, cotton balls, and cotton rounds)
Comes with a pack of 4 leakproof silicone bottles in 89ml capacity, perfect for carrying shampoo, lotion, sunscreen, etc
Features flip cap and cross pattern design to prevent leakage; bottles are soft, reusable, and made of odorless nontoxic material
Includes convenient zippered pouch and labels for easy organization and identification during travels
TSA-approved 3oz size meets carry-on liquid rules; great for air travel, vacations, camping, and outdoor trips
Ideal for storing a variety of liquids like shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, creams, lotions, and more
Designed for Convenience: With dimensions of 3.7" long, 2.4" wide, and 1.18" high, this pill organizer is perfectly sized to fit in your pocket or purse, combining ultimate portability with ease of use for daily medication management.ย
Store 7 Days' Am Pm Medications & Easy to Track -- This large strong weekly pill organizer 2 times a day sorts and fills a week's supplement in advance at once, freeing you from the daily repetitive action of manually organizing your pills and saving time. Because who wants to be sorting pills on their Out-Of-Office Time
ย Everything you need is in a small kit! Fully packed with 100 pieces useful and valuable hospital grade medical supplies, all kind of bandages, iodine pads, burn gel, PVC gloves, gauze pads, etc.ย
- Colorfully reimagined and more versatile than ever, iPad is great for the things you do every day. With an all-screen design, 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display, powerful A14 Bionic chip, superfast Wi-Fi, and four gorgeous colors, iPad delivers a powerful way to create, stay connected, and get things done.ย
- Wi-Fi 6 gives you fast access to your files, uploads, and downloads, and lets you seamlessly stream your favorite showsย
- The A14 Bionic chip delivers power and performance for any activity. And with all-day battery life, iPad is perfect for playing immersive games and editing photos and videosย
ใIPX8 Certified Waterproof Pouchใ- After around 1000 tests, no leakage or water damage during 100 Ft deep underwater. Niveaya waterproof pouch case is specially designed for outdoor activities such as fishing, swimming, skiing, boating, kayaking, etc., keeping your devices away from water, dust, snow, and enjoy your life.
ใAccommodates Two Phones At the Same Timeใ- The Niveaya waterproof phone pouch have two 7 inches bags that can accommodate two mobile phones at the same time๏ผbut also can hold your cash, watch, earphones,keys. And it won't block the camera.
Waterproof Protection and Confident Impermeable! Triple zip lock protection up to 32 feet (10 meters) underwater. No worries of your valuables getting wet. Keep your phone and wallet perfectly dry and safe from a splash, a spill, or total immersion whether you're snorkeling, swimming, sailing, paddle boarding, tubing, kayaking, river rafting, water slides or water activities and the like!
Extra Peace of Mind. The translucent pouch is Touch Screen Friendly, you are able to check msgs or text and talk if there was an issue, and protection your ID, cash, credit cards, passport in the opaque pouch, fully dive into your adventures without worrying about your valuables being stolen. Tips: The colorful and transparent waterproof pouch is Touch Screen Friendlyย
ouโve never experienced a rechargeable Battery battery-operated fan like this. Venty Fan rechargeable fan is foldable, durable, extendable & sleek. It Oscillates 120ยฐ, rotates 180ยฐ, and only weighs 2.6lbs! Perfect for travels, at work, at home or as a camping fan.
TOTALLY WIRELESS - Still using clunky old fans that need plugging into the wall? The wireless Venty small oscillating fan keeps you cool anywhere! No power? No problem! Venty is the Worldโs sleekest foldable wireless fan that keeps you cool with battery power. No messy cables!
MIGHTY BATTERY POWER - Get up to 48 hours of cooling fan action with every charge. The chunky 16,000 mAh battery also doubles as a power bank and lets you charge your phone and other devices using the USB-C input which also serves as an output. Bring your small portable fan to the pool and charge your phone as you dip.
PRO TRICK: If you don't pack on ask your cabin steward for one on embarkment day
You will receive two 3 fl oz bottles of Downy Wrinkle Releaser All-in-One Travel Spray: Portable Wrinkle Remover, Static Remover, Odor Eliminator, Fabric Refresher, and Ironing Aid
To use: simply spray fabric, tug and smooth away wrinkles, briefly hang to dry, and then go
Phoenix Rose Deluxe Travel Laundry Bundle: Fresh clothes on-the-go solution!
Tide, Bounce, Downy, Unstopables - Top-notch laundry essentials for travelers.
TSA-approved sizes ensure convenience without compromising laundry effectiveness.
Bonus Phoenix Rose Fridge Sticker for a touch of personal style.
Elevate your journey with freshness and style wherever you wander!
PRO TIP: Most cruise lines offer laundry service for less than $20 per load, some offer self service for less than $5 per wash/Dry load
๐๐๐ยฐ ๐๐ฉ๐๐ง๐ง๐ข๐ง๐ ๐๐๐ฌ๐ข๐ ๐ง: TSA approved toiletry bag can open up to 180ยฐ, enabling the clear bag to be easily flipped open horizontally, providing convenient access to travel essentials. The durable handle design allows for easy lifting and hanging of this clear bag.
๐๐๐ญ๐๐ซ๐ฉ๐ซ๐จ๐จ๐ ๐๐๐ ๐๐๐ญ๐๐ซ๐ข๐๐ฅ๐ฌ: Clear makeup bag made of waterproof PVC materials. It is clear and easy to wipe clean, allowing for quick visibility and access.
๐๐๐ ๐-๐-๐ ๐๐ฉ๐ฉ๐ซ๐จ๐ฏ๐๐๏ผClear travel bags for toiletries are fully compliant with TSA 3-1-1 Rules and Regulations of all Airlines and get through airport security easy and fast.
๐๐๐ซ๐ฌ๐๐ญ๐ข๐ฅ๐ ๐ ๐๐๐ญ๐ฎ๐ซ๐๐ฌ๏ผClear cosmetic bag size is 8''L x 3''Wx 6.3''H. And equipped with a smooth zipper provides easy portability and quick access to items.
๐๐ซ๐๐ฏ๐๐ฅ ๐๐๐๐๐ฌ๐ฌ๐จ๐ซ๐ข๐๐ฌ๏ผ Bagsmart travel toiletry bag can be used as cosmetic bag, toiletry bag, grocery bag, toy bag, medicine bag, skincare bag, electronics bag, stationery bag, storage bag etc
Tide to go is an instant stain remover designed to help eliminate some of the toughest fresh food and drinks stains by getting to them before they set in
Portable, pen-like design to stop stains on the spot - fits neatly into briefcases, purses, drawers, or car compartments
5 Stars Quality Assurance!-Easily holds up to 50lbs and lasts longer! To avoid the quality issues often happened in similar products, we improved the components to make it sturdy and durable:1.5ร stronger polyester mesh, high-carbon steel frame, solid polyester bottom and double stitching handles.
โ Extra Large Capacity-(14.5''ร14.5''ร24.5''). It is large enough to contain a weekโs worth of dirty clothes, but still small enough to fit in any tiny apartment.
โ Popup Laundry Hamper!-Pops right open and it's easy to close up for space. People who open it for the first time, just read the instructions to learn how to fold it. It can be folded as small as a plate and can be easily folded and stored when not in use.
PRO TIP: Place in the bottom of the closet to keep your stateroom neat and tidy
PRO TRICK: If Traveling with two people, use one suitcase for clean clothes and the other for dirty clothes. This way when you get home you know what laundry needs to be done.ย
๐ณ๏ธ Fits Cruise Key Cards on all ships (Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Disney, Norwegian, Princess & More) in 2023, 2024 & 2025
๐ณ๏ธ Waterproof Key Card & ID Holder keeps your ship card dry and in sight at all times
๐ณ๏ธ Cute lanyard cruise ship designs including anchor, coconut, sandals, sunglasses & more
๐ณ๏ธ Detachable, clear pouch to store cash, credit cards, cruise ID or other smaller items
PRO TIP: Don't use the clear ID holder, just clip the Sail and Sign card directly to lanyard. Unless you want to remove it all the time, so the staff can swipe the card.
10 magnification with 25mm objective lens provides high definition without a color-changed or blurred image. The 10 magnification boasts a viewing field of 362ft at 1000 yds, so you'll be able to observe a great deal without actually adjusting their position.
Lightweight, small, compact binoculars. The foldable design and only 0.6lb lightweight make them can be folded into palm-size, so it's ideal for an even broader range of long-distance pursuits. You wish there were binoculars set in your backpack. No need to keep regretting about your trips when get these affordable and compact binoculars.
PRO TIP: This is a must have for an Alaska, Greenland Cruise
DEET mosquito repellent formulated with 25% DEET
Repels mosquitoes that may carry the Zika, Dengue, or West Nile viruses
Long-lasting protection from mosquitoes, ticks, biting flies, gnats and chiggers
Tick repellent that protects against ticks that may carry Lyme disease
Powder-dry formula - not oily or greasy
The Quintessential Packing Starter Kit โ Each bag size in this set was tested, designed, and selected to create the perfect packing cube kit for up to a 14-day vacation. The included laundry bag helps you separate soil clothing from the rest of your clean clothes which is particularly useful when traveling to multiple locations.
PRO TIP: Get a different color for every member of the family
PRO TIP: The quickest and easiest way to unpack on a cruise, just unzip the top and tuck under when placing cube in a drawer or on a shelf
Out Of Office Destinations, LLC
1-570-212-9597 โข info@outofofficedestinations.net
An Independent Affiliate of A. S. A. P. Cruises Inc., Florida Seller of Travel Ref. No. ST15578 โ Washington UBID No. 603189022