What should I take on a cruise?

Packing for a cruise should be exciting, not something that leaves you staring at an open suitcase questioning every life choice you’ve ever made. I’ve learnt the hard way what genuinely earns its place in your bag… and what absolutely doesn’t. So before you zip up and sail away, here’s a quick guide to what you should bring on board, from clothes and shoes, to all your essentials - and the things better left at home, no matter how “useful” you swear they might be. Let’s make packing simple, stress‑free, and cruise‑ready.

🧳 Essentials

• Passport (and any visas you might need)

• Travel insurance documents

• Cruise boarding passes / luggage tags

• Bank cards + a little cash for ports if you like

• Phone + charger

• Any medications or vitamins

• Sunglasses (trust me, you’ll want them)

  
  

👗 Clothing

Daytime

• Shorts, t‑shirts, vest tops

• Sundresses / playsuits / linen sets

• Swimwear (pack more than you think!)

• Light cover‑up

• Lightweight jumper or hoodie for air‑con

  
  

Evening (Smart Casual)

• Dresses / skirts / jumpsuits

• Smart trousers / chinos

• Shirts / polos / nice tops

• Light jacket or blazer

  
  

Formal Nights

• Evening dress / cocktail dress

• Suit or smart jacket

• Smart shoes or heels you can walk… and ideally dance in!

(Bring something that makes you feel great — no need to spend a fortune.)

👞 Shoes

• Comfortable trainers or sandals

• Flip‑flops / slides

• Smart shoes for evenings

• Optional: something dressier for formal night

  
  

🌬 Outerwear

• Jacket or coat (lightweight for summer, waterproof and warm for colder cruises!)

• Cardigan or hoodie for breezy deck nights

  
  

👜 Bags & Accessories

• Crossbody bag for evenings

• Tote or beach bag for pool/port days

• Simple jewellery / accessories

• Hat or cap (sun can be sneaky at sea!)

• Umbrella if you think you might need it!

  
  

🧼 Toiletries

• Shampoo / conditioner (ships provide them, but if you’re picky…)

• Body wash

• Moisturiser + SPF

• Razor

• Toothbrush + toothpaste

• Hair products or tools

• After‑sun if you burn easily

  
  

📸 Extras

• Reusable water bottle

• Small first-aid bits (plasters, pain relief, seasickness tablets)

• Portable charger

• Book, Kindle, or something for sea days

• Phone or camera for those Instagram ready shots

• EU or US Plug adapter if required, ones with USB ports are ideal!

  
  

🏋️ Optional (but handy)

• Gym clothes if you plan to visit (or pretend to!)

• Spa‑friendly swimwear

• Theme night outfits (if your ship has them)

• Binoculars for sea views

• Small beach towel for port days (some ships provide them)

❌ Things You Should Not Pack for a Cruise

1. Irons or steamers (unless the ship allows them)

Most cruise lines ban personal irons and steamers for fire‑safety reasons.Many ships have ironing rooms or offer pressing services instead.

2. Power strips with surge protectors

Regular power strips without surge protection are often allowed, but surge‑protected ones are not as they can interfere with the ship’s electrical systems.

3. Candles, wax warmers, incense

Anything with an open flame is automatically prohibited.

4. Coffee makers, kettles, toasters, hot plates

Small heating appliances aren’t allowed for safety. Most cabins already have kettles or access to hot drinks.

5. Weapons of any kind

This includes:

• Knives outside of small pocket-sized ones

• Pepper spray / mace

• Martial arts equipment

• Firearms or replicas

  
  

6. Clothes steamers (depending on the line)

Some ships allow certain travel steamers, some don’t. Always check before packing.

7. Excess alcohol

Policies vary, but generally:

• Most cruise lines allow one bottle of wine or champagne per adult.

• Spirits, beer, or additional bottles will often be confiscated.

  
  

8. CBD, cannabis products, or anything containing THC

Even if legal where you live, they are not allowed on most cruise ships due to international laws.

9. Extension cords longer than a couple of feet

Long cords are often restricted. Short ones may be allowed but it’s best to double check so you’re not surprised.

10. Household cleaning products or chemicals

Cruise lines don’t allow bleach, sprays, or any strong chemicals.

11. Bulky sports equipment

Items like:

• Surfboards

• Electric scooters (unless medically necessary)

• Large drones

• Hoverboards

  
  

  …are often restricted or banned.

  
  

12. Fresh fruit and vegetables

To protect ports from agricultural contamination, leave them at home. There will be plenty of fresh fruit and veg on the ship. You should also not attempt to bring any plant life or rocks on board from ports you visit as this is prohibited.

13. Pool inflatables

Most ships don’t allow large inflatables in their pools.

14. Expensive valuables you don’t need

Cruise cabins have safes, but it’s still best to avoid bringing unnecessary jewellery or high‑value items, just in case.

15. Towels

Cruise ships provide them in your cabin for every day use, and often around the pool area or even when you get off the ship in port where needed. You shouldn’t need your own unless you have a specific preference.

✔️ Final Tip

Lay everything out before you pack… then remove at least one thing you know you won’t wear. We’ve all been there.