By, bruce smith

• 6 Views
• 5 Min Read
• (0) Comment

There is a lot to look forward to on your cruise and planning your trip is a lot of fun! However, packing for your cruise can be daunting if you’re not sure where to begin! This cruise packing checklist outlines everything to make sure you are ready for everything from formal nights to the beach! Whether it’s your first cruise or your tenth, we have designed a cruise packing list with all the necessary essentials that you MUST not forget!

Travel Documents and Cruise Essentials

Documentation is the key component in your packing list for cruise vacations. There is no hope of your vacation beginning without it being documented first.

• Passport and Visa: Make sure you have a valid passport. Some countries require passports to be valid for at least six months following your return.
• Cruise Boarding Pass: Have copies printed and digital on a secure cloud or file sharing service, just in case
• Travel Insurance: You probably know this, but it is important to buy travel insurance in case you need to unexpectedly cancel, need emergency medical assistance, or experience an interruption of your trip.
• Credit and Debit Cards and Currency Local to Destination: It is wise to have both. Also consider whether certain destinations may not accept credit cards at all.
• Credit Cards and Local Currency: It is advisable to have a combination of both since there are some places where your credit card will not be accepted.
• Health Documentation: In case of a requirement, vaccination cards, prescriptions, and medical history will be necessary.

Luggage and Packing Gear

It is easy to keep track of your things by using the right luggage:

• Hand luggage: Pack your documents, medication, and a change of clothes as well as other necessities.
• Checked Suitcase: Made of reliable material, low weight, and with high security.
• Day Bag or Backpack: Great for going off the ship.
• Packing Cubes: Not only to save the space but also keep the clothes neatly arranged.
• Waterproof Dry Bag: Keep your gadgets safe while you are enjoying water sports.
  

Clothing Essentials for Every Cruise

Here are some of the items you should have on your cruise packing checklist clothing that is versatile enough to be comfortable onboard and be at least somewhat appropriate on shore.

Both Day and Casual Wear

• Cottons and polos, short and t-shirts
• Sundresses and skirts
• Activewear for workouts or adventure tours
• Light sweater or jacket to evenings when it is a little cold

Evening and Formal Wear

• Resort casual attire for dining
• One formal outfit for special evenings
• Dress shoes or sandals

Swimwear and Beachwear

• Multiple bathing suits
• Clothing for the beach or sarongs
• Slippers or water shoes

Weather-Specific Clothing

• Water resistant jacket or poncho
• Hat and eye glasses for sun protection
• A scarf or a shawl for cold places

Footwear That Works Everywhere

Shoes are an important part of your packing list for cruise vacations:

• Walking shoes for excursions
• Dress shoes or high heels for dining out
• Open toe shoes or flip, flops
• Water shoes for activities

Toiletries and Personal Care Items

Cruise ships provide basics, but it’s best to pack your own:

• Toothbrush, toothpaste, floss
• Shampoo, conditioner, body wash
• Razor and creme for shaving
• Deodorant and face cream
• Sunscreen (reef, safe) and lip balm with SPF
• Relief for sunburn or aloe vera
• Sanitizer and wipes for the hands
• Insect repellent for tropical ports

Health and Medication Essentials

The smart cruise packing list that goes with the handling of minor health problems includes the following items:

• Prescription medications (original container)
• Relief of pain
• Drugs for motion sickness (patches or pills)
• Medicine for stomach
• First, aid kit consisting of bandages and antiseptic
• Health pills or supplements

Electronics and Gadgets for Cruising

Don’t overpack technology, but bring essentials:

• Smartphone and charger
• Portable power bank
• Travel adapter or power strip (check cruise policy)
• Camera or GoPro
• E-reader or tablet
• Headphones
• Waterproof phone case

Accessories That Make Life Easier

These extras make cruising more comfortable:

• Reusable water bottle
• Sunglasses
• Laundry bag
• Magnetic hooks (cabin walls are metal)
• Binoculars for scenic cruising
• Lanyard for cruise key card
• Travel alarm clock

Excursion and Activity Gear

Depending on your itinerary, add these to your cruise packing checklist:

• Snorkeling gear
• Waterproof backpack
• Hiking shoes for nature trails
• Travel towel
• Collapsible umbrella

Tips for Smart Cruise Packing

• Follow cruise line dress codes
• Bring clothes that are suitable for different occasions and that can be combined to save space in your suitcase
• Do not fill all your luggage with your stuff but rather leave some space for the souvenirs that you will bring home
• Before going to the airport, make sure that you have checked the weight of your luggage so that you can avoid the situation of paying extra charges
• Roll clothes instead of folding to reduce wrinkles

Final Thoughts on Your Cruise Packing Checklist

One of the first things a person has to take into consideration if he/she plans to go on a cruise is the cruise packing list. A well thought-out cruise packing list will make your cruise sea vacation a very stress-free one. This list of everything from “must-have” documents to comfortable clothes, toiletry, and even adventure gear, makes sure that you are both “at the ship for rest and relaxation, and on the go for exciting excursions at the port”. By using this packing list for cruise travel, you will be able to completely eliminate the last-minute panic and still have a perfect and wonderful trip.