No matter which cruise line you book, you’ll need to consider one extra step to ensure you have essential items on hand as you set sail.
“Remember, you’ll be checking your bags with porters upon arrival at the port,” says Mandy Pullin, a travel advisor and co-owner of DPP Travel. “They will send your bags through a security checkpoint and then on to the cruise ship to be delivered later in the day. Unfortunately, you won’t have access to your luggage until it reaches your stateroom, so definitely be sure to pack a carry-on bag for boarding the ship.”
This bag, which you’ll carry on board with you, functions much like an airline carry-on bag. “You’ll want to include your must-have items, like swimsuits for the kiddos, sunscreen for everyone, and necessary medications or prescriptions,” Pullin suggests.
Once your cruise trip is underway and you have access to your suitcases, you should have everything you need to be comfortable and enjoy yourself on your trip. Here are the cruise essentials no traveler should forget to pack. Naturally, your cruise packing checklist for clothing will depend on where you’re heading. But there are still a few universal strategies to consider that can help make planning a lot easier.
“I typically aim to pack 1.5 outfits per person daily when I travel, but cruising is a little different,” says Pullin. “You constantly change after a long day of activities for your casual dinner.”
She suggests packing enough shirts to have at least one clean one for each day, which can include t-shirts. If your cruise itinerary takes you to warmer weather, Pullin recommends packing two to three pairs of shorts for a seven-night trip.
And don’t forget dressier attire, such as slacks, jeans, dress pants, or trousers. “It is always good to have at least one pair as it can be cold at dinner, in the theaters, and outside on the decks at night,” Pullin says. “Add an additional pair if you’re attending formal events.”
Footwear can prove slightly more tricky. “You’ll want flip-flops for the pool and walking sandals, flats, dressy sandals, or dress shoes for dinner,” says Pullin. “Always pack a few extra pairs for the kids if they get wet—which is why water shoes are a great idea.”
“This will make it easier to explore ports, participate in shore excursions that may include walking, and of course, lots of walking around the ship,” she tells Best Life. “Shoes that can be worn with a variety of outfits—both during the day and at night in more formal settings—can help reduce the need for several pairs. Most importantly, you want them to be comfortable and fit properly because nobody wants to suffer from aching feet, blisters, or even a sprained or broken ankle caused by inadequate footwear.”
Pullin adds you should bring along a light jacket or sweater to stay warm onboard. And you may need more layers, depending on your destination.
“If you’re cruising to Alaska, you’ll likely stop to view one of the many amazing glaciers at the bow of the ship,” says Sondra Barker, a food and travel writer and founder of Cuisine and Travel. “It will be very chilly and it’s always the cruisers who remember to bring a warm jacket who are able to enjoy the best views.”
Pullin advises packing some casual sundresses for warmer cruises that can be dressed up for dinner with a shawl or cardigan. She also brings at least two swimsuits and cover-ups to allow them plenty of time to dry out in between wears. And while this checklist might seem like it will overwhelm your packing cubes, don’t lose hope.
“This cruise packing list can be cut in half if you choose to use the laundry service on board!” says Pullin. “Many cruise lines offer a laundry package and it is usually worth the money to save on packing space.”
