Most companies have a separate page on their websites outlining essential items you’ll want to have with you on a cruise.
Make sure each item has been safely put away in your bag before checking it off the list. Start making your list early to give yourself time to remember things right up to the moment you leave. Many cruise companies allow passengers to carry on a small amount of alcohol. Check out the rules and regulations of the cruise line you booked your trip with to see what types and quantities they approve. [2] X Research source
Gathering all your belongings at once will also give you a handy visual layout, making it easier to spot anything that’s missing.
You won’t need a fresh outfit every single day. Grab a handful of tops, bottoms and accessories, then mix and match different combinations. [5] X Research source Most people make the mistake of over-packing clothing. This just makes finding room in your bags and toting them around more complicated.
Slip a mobile device, book or magazine into your carry-on so you’ll have something to do during slower moments. [7] X Research source More compact items can also go into your carry-on rather than in your primary luggage.
Include a pair of khakis or skirt and collared shirt or blouse for places where short sleeves aren’t acceptable.
If you get away without a swimsuit, your only option will to be to purchase one from one of the ship’s gift shops, which are often steeply overpriced. Lather up with sunscreen and put on your sunglasses to protect yourself while you swim or tan.
One helpful guideline is to dress in layers, regardless of where you’re headed. That way, you’ll be able to put on and take off clothing as you see fit. You should, of course, choose bulkier layers for cold-weather cruises. For cold-weather cruises, take a hat and scarf and slip a pair of gloves into the pockets of your coat.
You don’t have to get as fancy as a tuxedo or gown. As long as you look tasteful and presentable, most places will admit you. Lavish clothes will help you stand out among your fellow travelers, though, and can make for good photo opportunities. If you expect to go out for an expensive dinner or visit places with a more conservative atmosphere once you reach port, take along more than one ensemble.
Refer back to the packing recommendations provided by your cruise line to learn what sort of things are not allowed on the ship. If you’re unsure whether or not you should take a particular item with you, it might be safest not to include it in your luggage.
You should have your travel bags picked out and ready to go long before you begin packing. Be careful not to cram your suitcase so full of stuff that it’s hard to lug around.
Your cruise ship will be able to supply soap, shampoo, toothpaste and other toiletries, so if you’re concerned about your luggage capacity, these can be left behind.
You can also try rolling things like t-shirts and shorts to get them down to a smaller surface area. Fair warning, though—this method doesn’t work well for all types of clothing and is prone to causing creasing. [17] X Research source Hang clothing that you want to keep clean and wrinkle-free.
Making use of the pockets also keeps you from having to unzip and dig through your suitcase every time you need to retrieve a smaller item. Secure your travel papers, electronic accessories and other valuable goods in the pockets of your luggage. It’s much safer than carrying them on your person.
