Packing for a cruise can be overwhelming, especially if it's your first time. You want to make sure you have everything you need while also keeping your luggage to a manageable size. To help you out, here's a list of what to bring and what not to bring when packing for a cruise:
What to Bring:
Appropriate Clothing: Bring clothing suitable for the climate and activities on your cruise. Pack a mix of casual, semi-formal, and formal wear, depending on the dress code of the ship's restaurants and events. Don't forget to include swimwear, comfortable walking shoes, and a light jacket for cool evenings.
Medications and Toiletries: Bring any medications you need, along with enough toiletries to last the duration of your trip. Most ships provide basic toiletries, but it's always better to bring your own to ensure you have what you need.
Travel Documents: Don't forget your passport or other necessary travel documents. Make sure they are up-to-date and stored in a secure place.
Electronics: Bring a camera, phone, or other electronics you need to capture memories and stay connected with loved ones at home. Remember to bring chargers and any necessary adapters for charging your devices.
Cash and Credit Cards: Bring enough cash and credit cards to cover any additional expenses not included in your cruise package, such as excursions, shopping, or gratuities.
- Lanyard: Many cruise ships issue guests with a key card, which is used to access their cabin, make purchases, and register for onboard activities. A lanyard can be a convenient way to keep this key card accessible at all times. Instead of having to dig through bags or pockets to find the card, it can be worn around the neck for easy access.
- Magnetic hooks: Most cruise ship cabins are designed with compact layouts and limited storage space, which can make it challenging to keep everything organized and within reach. However, by bringing magnet hooks, you can make use of the metal surfaces in your cabin, such as the walls, doors, and ceilings. Magnetic hooks are good for extra storage, easy access, space saving, organization, and convenience.
- Motion sickness patches: Bringing motion sickness patches on a cruise can help alleviate the discomfort of motion sickness for those who are prone to it, allowing them to fully enjoy their time on board. They are available for sale once you are on board, but at a higher price. Get them in advance and save some bucks.
What not to Bring:
Too Many Clothes: Avoid overpacking and bringing too many clothes. Many ships have laundry services available for a fee, so you can wash your clothes and wear them again.
Valuables: Avoid bringing expensive jewelry or other valuable items that you don't need. Most cruise lines provide in-room safes, but it's better to be safe than sorry.
Hair Dryer: Don't bother bringing a hair dryer, as most ships provide them in the cabins.
Illegal Items: This one is obvious but has to make it to the list. Don't bring any illegal items, such as drugs or weapons, on your cruise.
Full-Sized Liquids: Don't bring full-sized liquids, such as shampoo or lotion, as they are not allowed in carry-on luggage. Instead, pack travel-sized versions or purchase them on board.
Packing for a cruise doesn't have to be stressful. Just make sure to bring appropriate clothing, necessary travel documents, and any medications or toiletries you need. Avoid bringing illegal items, overpacking, and expensive valuables, and you'll be well on your way to a stress-free and enjoyable cruise vacation.