The Packing List You Need! What to Pack for a Cruise
I'm always asked, "Help! What should I pack for my cruise?" Whether you are going on your first cruise or are a seasoned cruiser, it's still a challenge to pack for a cruise - put together outfits, bring the right accessories, and remember everything. Cruising is my favorite kind of vacation but admittedly, it's the most difficult to pack for. Pool or excursion wear during the day and then a dedicated outfit for dinner every night, possibly including one or two formal outfits. And don't even get me started on the shoes!
You are so excited to go on your perfectly, virtually planned vacation, but now you need to pack. Packing the right way can make or break your trip. Here are just a few helpful hints and tips I've learned along the way:
Label Maker
Yep. Get yourself a label maker. Nope. Don't pack it with you! But it's truly the best thing to use to get you and your family organized for any vacation. Label toothbrushes, deodorant, lip balm and other personal toiletry items with each person's name so you don't get them mixed up. Label items ahead of time that you know you'll be taking off the ship with you, such as sunglasses case, water shoes, and camera.
Yep. Get yourself a label maker. Nope. Don't pack it with you! But it's truly the best thing to use to get you and your family organized for any vacation. Label toothbrushes, deodorant, lip balm and other personal toiletry items with each person's name so you don't get them mixed up. Label items ahead of time that you know you'll be taking off the ship with you, such as sunglasses case, water shoes, and camera.
Pack Shoes in XL (2-gallon size) or 3-gallon size Plastic Zipper Bags
Not only does this protect your clothes, but provides a place to store sandy or wet swim suits and shoes for the trip home. See more great tips on how to use these in my favorite travel products.
Not only does this protect your clothes, but provides a place to store sandy or wet swim suits and shoes for the trip home. See more great tips on how to use these in my favorite travel products.
Small Bills and Coins
Appreciated when tipping porters, bell-hops, and on most Caribbean islands for small souvenirs.
Appreciated when tipping porters, bell-hops, and on most Caribbean islands for small souvenirs.
A Few Items That I Never Travel Without:
On a cruise ship, or in any hotel room, your cabin space will be limited. Even in the largest of suites, finding a place to put everything may be a challenge. Always use lightweight, collapsible luggage for easy storage. Without taking up a lot of space, you can come prepared with accessories to best utilize your living area for the next few days.
On a cruise ship, or in any hotel room, your cabin space will be limited. Even in the largest of suites, finding a place to put everything may be a challenge. Always use lightweight, collapsible luggage for easy storage. Without taking up a lot of space, you can come prepared with accessories to best utilize your living area for the next few days.
- First Aid Kit: See the items below In case of medical issues/minor injuries. It will save you time and money. So you don't have to leave the beach for a cut or abrasion or have to visit the ship's medical center for a headache, bring your own supply of various items and carry them with you.
- Band-Aids and Neosporin
- Motrin and/or Tylenol
- Bonine
- Cold medicine
- Aloe gel for sunburns
- Waterproof passport ID case, with passports, of course. And don't forget to make a copy.
- Water resistant backpack or tote with zipper
- Sweatshirt or sweater: Yes! Even in the Caribbean it can get chilly in the dining rooms, casinos or late night on deck.
- Heavy Magnets with Clips or Hooks: Doors on a cruise ship are magnetic and you can conveniently use magnetic hooks to hang hats, swimsuits, jackets, etc.
- Small Power Strips/Wall Charger: Expand your outlet capacity by plugging in safely on the desk.
- Sticky Notes: Stick on a designated spot (table, mirror, outside door) to write a quick note to others in your group where to meet up. These are also great to cover nightstand clocks if they are too bright.
- Highlighter Pen: If you remember to bring it, I'm sure you will use it....highlight activities in your daily schedule or a note to your room steward or butler.
- Duct Tape: Great to have on hand when traveling in general. Use to mark a suitcase being checked through or fix a ripped suitcase, strengthen a wrapped souvenir for the travel home, lint remover for your clothes, quick fix for any small repair that needs to be made before maintenance arrives, etc. It's amazing how many uses you'll find for it!
I've created this FREE original cruise packing list for you below to use when packing for a cruise. It's always a good idea to start with a list so you don't forget anything. Plus, get ideas on what you may need that you haven't thought of. When packing for a cruise for your family, fill out a sheet for everyone. See PDF of this packing list below for you to easily print out and start knowing what to pack for a cruise.
Ready to Print?
| My Virtual Vacations Packing Check Off List |
