7 Things You Should Always Pack for a Cruise

Packing for a cruise can feel daunting for a first-timer. After all, if you forget something important, you’re limited to what you can buy on board or while in port. To help you avoid being stuck at sea without what you need, let’s take a look at seven things you should always pack for a cruise, including a few surprisingly useful items you may not have considered.

Clothing That Fits Your Cruise’s Dress Code

Before you even start with a packing list, it’s a good idea to read any information provided about your specific cruise, as the level of formality on board can vary considerably across cruise lines. Check your itinerary details or the website of the company operating your cruise to find a suggested dress code or packing checklist, which is a handy starting point. This one from Celebrity Cruises, for instance, is quite different from what’s suggested to comply with the dress code on an expedition cruise with an upscale operator like Silversea. Additionally, as part of your preparations, be sure to do some thorough research into the kind of weather you might expect and pack the right gear for those conditions. 

Binoculars (for Wildlife Cruises)

If you’re heading on a cruise to a wildlife-rich destination such as Alaska, you can expect plenty of sightings during your cruise. However, they don’t always happen on the Zodiac boat or during shore excursions; often, you’ll spot creatures in the distance from the ship. That can be frustrating if you don’t have the right equipment to zoom in on your subject, which is why packing a pair of binoculars can come in handy. Alternatively, if you’re an avid photographer, looking through a long lens will have much the same effect, and you’ll be able to record the moment to share with friends and family back home.

Towel Bands or Clips

While you’ll find beach towels in your cabin, if you plan to use one when it’s breezy on deck, you’ll be grateful for a couple of towel clips to hold it in place. However, clips can be bulky to pack if space is tight, and if squashed, they may break. Instead, seasoned travelers often choose towel bands, which can be pulled over a lounge chair and stretched to fit different-sized chairs. No matter which one you choose, a towel clip or band will also help you quickly identify which seat you were using if you step away for a moment. 

Small Bills for Tips While Ashore

Onboard gratuities are often included as part of the price of your cruise or can be paid up front. For example, Royal Caribbean levies a charge of at least $18.50 per passenger per day, while Carnival’s daily rates begin at $16 per person. However, the same can’t be said when you disembark. If you’re keen to explore at each port of call, you may want to carry a small amount of cash in small bills so you can tip servers at local cafés and bars. They’ll also come in handy if you wish to thank your guide after a fun tour or excursion.

Magnetic Wall Hooks 

Let’s face it: Cruise ship cabins can be cozy (read: small). Even the most spacious ones might still present storage challenges during your trip, particularly on longer voyages. While you can request additional hangers for clothes, it’s also handy to travel with a few magnetic wall hooks. Use them to store bags, toiletries, and other small items in easily accessible places, rather than piled on the floor or on furniture. Before you make your purchase, however, consider what the hooks are designed for and whether they are strong enough to support what you plan to use them for.

A Large Water Bottle or Mug (Preferably With a Lid)

Regular cruisers might tell you to bring your own mug, as those you’ll encounter on the ship are often small. In case of a less-than-smooth sailing, you’ll also benefit from choosing a mug with a lid so hot liquid doesn’t spill. Insulated mugs or water bottles will also be invaluable during shore excursions, and you’ll be doing your bit to reduce the use of single-use plastics.

Over-the-Counter Medicine 

Though you can purchase many over-the-counter drugs at the ship’s pharmacy or while in port, it’s far more convenient to pack a small first-aid kit with the basics. Pop a packet of pain relievers, seasickness pills, indigestion remedies, and a few Band-Aids in your luggage in case they’re needed. However, be sure to review the cruise line’s list of banned items and research local laws for the countries on your itinerary, as items that are commonplace and legal where you live might not be allowed in the places you visit.