Best Size Luggage For 7 Day Cruise (PLUS 5 Best Picks!)

If you have just booked your first 7-day cruise, you already know the excitement is REAL.

But packing for a 7-day cruise is completely different than for a weekend getaway. Is one carry on bag enough? Duffel bags? Or should you just bring a large checked bag?

But cruise cabins can be so small, will your large checked baggage even fit?

We’ve got you covered…

Different Luggage Sizes: What To Bring On A 7-Day Cruise?

When it comes to choosing the right luggage size for a 7-day cruise, you’ll want to find the perfect balance between capacity and portability.

For a 7-day cruise, one checked bag and one carry-on (or duffel bag) per person is normally enough. Some can even get away with just one large carry-on, but unless you travel very light or plan to do laundry, a checked bag may be best.

What is classified as a checked bag and what is a carry-on? Although it can vary slightly, these are the general dimensions of both:

Carry-On Luggage:

Carry-on luggage is smaller and designed to be taken with you into the cabin. For a 7-day cruise, it’s advised to choose a carry-on bag that is no larger than 24″ x 16″ x 12″.

These dimensions will allow you to store your essentials, including a few clothes, toiletries, electronics, and any important documents.

Keep in mind that airlines might hold different guidelines for carry-on sizes, so be sure to double-check with your specific airline.

Checked Luggage:

For the rest of your clothing and belongings, you’ll need a larger, checked bag. When selecting a checked bag for your 7-day cruise, aim for no larger than 28″ x 22″ x 14″.

The checked luggage should not weigh more than 50 pounds when full to avoid extra fees or challenges while loading and unloading the luggage.

Also, if you’re traveling by air, it’s important to keep your checked bag within the weight limit set by your airline to avoid additional fees.

Remember that although cruise lines are more relaxed with luggage limits compared to airlines, it’s essential to prioritize what you truly need during the trip.

Packing smart will ensure a hassle-free experience both when boarding the cruise and during your stay.

In general, opt for a carry-on luggage size of around 24″ x 16″ x 12″ and a checked luggage size of approximately 28″ x 22″ x 14″ for the perfect balance of capacity and maneuverability on your cruise.

Choosing the Right Size For A 7-Day Cruise

Factors to Consider

When choosing the right size luggage for your 7-day cruise, several factors come into play.

You’ll want to consider the cruise’s dress code. Are there any formal nights requiring dressier attire, or is it a more casual voyage?

Keep an eye on the weather and destination, as this will influence your packing needs.

And don’t forget about any shore excursions or special events you’ll be attending, as these might require specific gear or outfits you may want to pack.

Another thing to keep in mind is the airline baggage restrictions if you’ll be flying to the cruise.

Airlines have size and weight limits for carry-ons and checked bags, so it’s crucial to select luggage that meets these requirements.

Plus, some cruise lines often have their own restrictions on baggage size and weight that can impact what you can bring on board.

Recommended Sizes

To ensure a smooth and enjoyable 7-day cruise, use luggage that is both spacious and easy to manage. Generally speaking, for a 7-day cruise, a carry-on bag should be no larger than 24″ x 16″ x 12″, and a checked bag no larger than 28″ x 22″ x 14″.

A weight limit of 50 pounds for each checked bag is also a good guideline to follow.

When looking for luggage, you may want to consider the following features that can help make your cruise experience more enjoyable:

• Rolling Suitcases: Opt for luggage with wheels to easily maneuver during boarding and disembarkation.
• Expandable Compartments: Luggage with expandable compartments can provide extra space for souvenirs or unexpected items.
• Packing Cubes: These handy organizers can help keep your belongings organized and easy to find.

Remember to choose luggage that suits your personal preferences, taking into consideration the factors that are unique to your trip and cruise experience.

With the right luggage in hand, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying a stress-free and memorable 7-day journey.

Best Brands for Cruise Luggage

Samsonite is a well-known and reputable brand that provides reliable and durable luggage options.

Their hard shell luggage with spinner wheels is perfect for your 7-day cruise, as it allows easy maneuverability in the airport and cruise terminal.

Plus, the lightweight and stylish design makes your travel experience enjoyable.

DELSEY Paris is another excellent brand offering sturdy and stylish luggage solutions. Their Helium Aero Hardside Expandable Luggage, particularly the 25-inch version, is a fantastic choice for a 7-day cruise.

It provides ample space for all your necessities and comes with integrated TSA approved locks for added security.

Apart from these two popular options, here are a few more brands that you should consider when looking for the perfect cruise luggage:

• Travelpro: Known for their high-quality, lightweight luggage, Travelpro offers the Maxlite 5 Expandable Spinner, which is easy to handle and provides excellent packing capacity.
• American Tourister: This brand’s affordable yet durable suitcases, such as the Moonlight Expandable Hardside Spinner, offer a great balance of function and style.
• Briggs & Riley: For a more luxurious option, Briggs & Riley’s premium luggage line, like the Baseline Expandable Spinner, combines exceptional performance with elegant design elements.

When searching for the ideal luggage for your cruise, pay close attention to the size, durability, and ease of use.

Brands like Samsonite and DELSEY Paris offer excellent solutions; however, Travelpro, American Tourister, and Briggs & Riley are also great options worth considering.

Our Picks: Best Luggage For A 7 Day Cruise

Samsonite Winfield 2 Hardside Expandable Luggage

Samosonite is always a top contender. And this Samsonite Winfield 2 luggage is no exception.

Perfect for a 7-day cruise, offering style, durability, and functionality to make your trip stress-free.

Pros

• Lightweight and durable construction
• Four spinner wheels for easy mobility
• Side-mounted TSA locks for security

Cons

• Slightly heavier than some competitor options
• May show scratches or scuffs over time
• Expansion limited to 1.5 inches

This Samsonite Expandable bag is one of our first choices for traveler.

Stylish and sophisticated, the brushed pattern design cleverly disguises potential scratches and scuffs from your journey.

One thing I’m sure you’ll love about this bag is the effortless maneuverability provided by the four multi-directional spinner wheels. They glide smoothly across various surfaces, allowing you to easily navigate through airports and cruise terminals.

Plus, it has the side-mounted TSA-approved combination lock which provides peace of mind, knowing that your belongings are safe and secure throughout your trip.

Although this is an amazing bag, keep in mind at 11.5 pounds, it is slightly heavier than some comparable options.

However, we think that the durability may be worth the extra weight. But if you’re a chronic over-packer, a lighter checked bag may be your best bet.

Travelpro Maxlite 5 Softside Expandable Luggage

The Travelpro Maxlite 5 is another top choice for your cruise!

Pros

• Ultra-lightweight, only 7.3 lbs
• 360-degree spinner wheels for easy maneuvering
• Expandable up to 2 inches for extra packing space

Cons

• May tip forward due to design
• Handles might not be sturdy enough for heavier loads
• Potential issues with durability over time

During my recent 7-day cruise, I used the Travelpro Maxlite 5 and was pleased with how easy it was to navigate through airports and onto the ship. Its 360-degree spinner wheels glided effortlessly, making it a breeze to maneuver through tight spaces.

The suitcase’s interior is well-designed as well, featuring adjustable hold-down straps, a full-length interior lid pocket, and a side accessory pocket.

These features helped me stay organized throughout my trip, and I could easily find my belongings without rummaging through the entire suitcase.

Plus, the expandable zipper allowed me to pack a few extra items for those formal nights on the cruise.

However, I did notice that the luggage tended to tip forward when standing up, which required extra attention.

Additionally, the handles felt slightly flimsy when the suitcase was packed to its full capacity, which could be a concern for those with heavier loads.

Finally, while the suitcase held up well during my trip, multiple users reported durability issues over time, so it may not last as long as other options.

SwissGear Sion Softside Expandable Roller Luggage

This versatile SwissGear luggage is a great choice for a 7-day cruise, providing ample space and efficient organization of all your belongings.

Pros

• Spacious and expandable
• 360-degree multi-directional spinner wheels
• Durable materials and design

Cons

• Slightly heavier than comparable luggage
• Handle may feel wobbly
• Not suitable for rough handling

The SwissGear Sion Softside Expandable Roller Luggage is an excellent choice to keep your belongings organized and secure. It is both practical and stylish.

The first thing you’ll notice is its spacious and expandable interior. With adjustable luggage tie-down straps, removable zippered wet bag, and a large mesh lid pocket, your items will be neatly packed and easily accessible.

Plus, there are two front panel pockets and a built-in ID tag for easy identification at the baggage claim.

However, like the Samsonite, it’s worth noting that this luggage is slightly heavier than comparable models, which may be a concern for some travelers.

Samsonite Ascella X Softside Expandable Luggage

Two Somsonite’s on the list?! Because they’re THAT good..

Pros

• Lightweight and durable design
• Wetpak compartment for damp items
• Four oversized dual spinner wheels

Cons

• May tip over while cornering
• Limited exterior pocket options
• Color may vary from the image

This bag features a 29″ spinner, providing enough space for a week-long trip and ensuring smooth navigation through airports and cruise terminals.

Not only is the luggage lightweight, but it is also made of durable materials that can withstand frequent usage.

One of the standout features of this luggage is the Wetpak zippered compartment, allowing you to keep damp or soiled items separate from your clean clothes.

You can have peace of mind knowing that your belongings are safe and well-organized.

On the downside, some users have found that the luggage tends to tip over while cornering.

And some customers say the color of the luggage might be different from what is shown in the images, which is something to keep in mind, but it still offers a sleek and stylish look.

Coolife Luggage 4 Piece Set

And if you want more bang for your buck, this 4-piece set may be perfect for you.

Pros

• Durable 1680D oxford cloth material
• Four multi-directional spinner wheels
• Built-in TSA lock for security

Cons

• Some customers reported tote bag not included
• Tote doesn’t securely attach to other pieces
• More affordable set, which might affect overall quality

This luggage set is made of 1680D oxford cloth, making it more durable than typical polyester material. This ensures the set will endure the wear and tear of frequent travel.

With a 20-inch carry-on, 24-inch medium luggage, 28-inch large luggage, and a 15-inch tote bag, the set provides ample space for all your belongings during your cruise.

Each piece features multi-directional spinner wheels, delivering easy mobility as you navigate through airports and cruise terminals.

Plus, one of our favorite features, the built-in TSA lock adds an extra layer of security for peace of mind during your trip.

Benefits Of Correct Size Luggage

Choosing the right size luggage for your cruise can make a significant difference in your overall travel experience.

Opting for suitcases that fit within the recommended dimensions (carry-on: 24″ x 16″ x 12″; checked bag: 28″ x 22″ x 14″) will just make your life easier while traveling and avoid extra costs.

The correct size luggage allows you to bring everything you need without overpacking. So you won’t be burdened with extra weight or struggling to close your bags.

Since each checked bag shouldn’t weigh more than 50 pounds, staying within these dimensions will make it easier for you to stick to this guideline.

Another advantage is that properly-sized luggage is typically easier to maneuver and transport. By keeping your bags within the recommended dimensions, you’ll be able to navigate crowded airports and cruise ship cabins more effortlessly.

Plus, you can be confident that fitting your carry-on into the overhead compartment on airplanes won’t be an issue.

And most importantly, adhering to recommended luggage sizes will help you avoid any potential additional fees or hassles.

Airlines and cruise lines have specific size and weight limits for both carry-ons and checked bags.

By opting for suitcases within the suggested dimensions, you can save money on baggage fees and avoid any unwanted surprises at the airport or cruise terminal.

Packing Tips For A 7-Day Cruise

Maximizing Luggage Space

To maximize your luggage space, consider using packing cubes, which help you organize and compress your clothes.

Additionally, rolling your clothes instead of folding them can save space and prevent wrinkles. Group similar items together, such as toiletries, so it’s easy to find them once you’re on the ship.

Essential Items To Pack

Here are some absolute essential items to include in your luggage for a cruise:

• Clothing: Pack casual daytime clothing, such as shorts, T-shirts, jeans, sundresses, and casual tops. Don’t forget sleepwear, swimwear, and workout clothes if you plan to exercise. Remember, most cruises have at least one formal night, so pack dress clothes, nice shoes, and accessories as well.
• Toiletries: Bring travel-size toiletries to save space. Include essentials like shampoo, conditioner, body wash, toothpaste, toothbrush, and any daily skincare products. Also, consider bringing a small first-aid kit with necessary medications, motion sickness remedies, and other medical supplies.
• Electronics: Chargers for your devices are a must. If you plan on taking photos, a camera or smartphone with a high-quality camera is essential. An e-reader or tablet can be great for downtime on the ship or for reading by the pool.
• Documents: Make sure to pack your passport, cruise documents, boarding passes, and travel insurance information. Keeping a photocopy of your essential documents can also be helpful in case of an emergency.
• Other essentials: Pack a reusable water bottle, snacks, a small beach bag, and any other items you’ll need for excursions or pool days. A collapsible laundry bag can help keep your clothes organized, and travel-size laundry detergent can be useful for washing small items in your cabin.

Avoiding Common Luggage Mistakes

Packing for a 7-day cruise can be overwhelming, but there’s no need to stress. This should be a fun experience!

If you’ve read this far, you’ve already picked the right size luggage, and that’s a major step in the right direction.

Next, don’t overpack. One of the biggest mistakes travelers make is bringing way more than they actually need.

On a cruise, you’ll find laundry facilities onboard, which means you can pack fewer clothes and avoid a heavier or oversized suitcase. Plan your outfits thoughtfully and focus on essentials.

To help streamline your packing process, consider the following tips:

• Roll your clothes: Rolling instead of folding saves space and helps prevent wrinkles.
• Use packing cubes: These nifty organizers keep your clothes separate and easy to locate.
• Pack versatile pieces: Choose items that can be dressed up or down and easily mixed and matched.

Another crucial aspect of avoiding luggage mistakes is ensuring you don’t forget any important items.

Double-check whether the cruise line provides things like beach towels, toiletries, or hairdryers. Most cruise lines do provide these essentials, so you won’t need to pack them,

It’s also helpful to create a packing checklist, so you don’t forget must-haves like medications, chargers, and travel documents.

Lastly, be mindful of the items you pack in your carry-on. Airlines have specific size and weight requirements for carry-ons, and it’s essential to adhere to these rules.

Your carry-on should contain important items you’ll need during the trip, such as travel documents, medications, a change of clothes, and any valuables.

By having these crucial items within reach, you’ll be better prepared for (god forbid!) unexpected delays or lost luggage.