Carnival Cruise Luggage Limits and Restrictions Every Cruiser NEEDS To Know

Excited for your first Carnival cruise trip?! You should be! But before you bust out your luggage and start packing for your voyage, it’s essential to know their unique luggage requirements.

Unlike other cruise lines, Carnival has some different rules regarding what you can and can’t bring.

When it comes to packing for your Carnival Cruise, you’ll be pleased to know that there are no restrictions on the number of bags you can bring.

However, it’s important to note that there are specific weight and size limits that you’ll need to adhere to.

By following these requirements, you’ll ensure a smooth and hassle-free embarkation process.

Be sure to review Carnival’s guidelines before packing your bags to avoid any potential issues. (We got you covered there! Just keep reading…)

How Many Bags Can You Take On A Carnival Cruise?

Carnival Cruise Line does not have a specific limit on the number of bags you can bring on your cruise. You are allowed to bring as many bags as you need for your trip.

However, there are weight and size restrictions that you must follow for every bag you bring.

Firstly, your bags must not exceed 50 pounds in weight, and secondly, they must be small enough to pass through the x-ray machine at security checkpoints.

Additionally, Carnival suggests that your bags should be compact enough to fit under the bed in your stateroom.

Also, each passenger is allowed to bring one carry-on bag, which must be able to fit through a standard airport security scanner. Carnival recommends that you pack all your essential items, such as medication, travel documents, and valuables, in your carry-on bag.

Is There A Weight Limit For Luggage On A Carnival Cruise?

It’s important to keep in mind that each bag you bring on your Carnival cruise must weigh less than 50 pounds (22kg) for the safety of porters who will be handling your luggage.

If you’re planning on bringing more than this weight limit, consider splitting your items into multiple smaller bags to make it easier for porters to handle them. This will help ensure that your luggage arrives at your cabin in a timely and safe manner.

If you’re flying to join your cruise, it’s crucial to be aware of any luggage weight restrictions that the airline may have.

Many airlines have weight and size restrictions on checked bags, and fees may apply if your bags exceed these limits.

Additionally, some airlines may have restrictions on the number of bags you can check, so it’s best to check with your airline before you pack to avoid any surprises at the airport.

Are There Baggage Fees On Carnival Cruises?

One of the great things about cruising with Carnival is that there are no baggage fees for the luggage you bring on board. This means that you can pack as much as you need without worrying about additional charges.

As long as each bag is 50lb (22 kg) and under, you can bring them on board for free.

However, it’s essential to note that if you’re flying to the port, you may still incur baggage fees from the airline for the bags you bring on the plane.

It’s important to keep in mind that airlines often have strict weight and size limits for checked bags, and fees may apply if your bags exceed these limits.

To avoid any unexpected fees, it’s always a good idea to pack as light as possible and to check with your airline before your flight to see if any fees apply to your luggage.

If you’re concerned about packing light, consider planning your outfits ahead of time and packing versatile pieces that can be mixed and matched.

You can also take advantage of Carnival’s laundry and dry-cleaning services to freshen up your clothes during your cruise.

By packing smart and planning ahead, you can ensure a stress-free and cost-effective travel experience.

How To Measure Luggage For A Carnival Cruise

When preparing for a Carnival Cruise, it’s important to ensure that your luggage meets the size requirements set by the cruise line.

Here are the simple steps to measure your luggage for a Carnival Cruise:

1. Measure the height of your luggage from the bottom of the wheels or feet to the top of the extended handle.
2. Measure the width of your luggage from the widest point, typically the side pockets or bulges.
3. Measure the depth of your luggage from the front to the back of the bag.
4. Add all three measurements together to get the total linear inches of your luggage.

Carnival Cruise Line allows each guest to bring up to two pieces of luggage, each with a maximum size of 16 inches x 24 inches x 30 inches (40.64 cm x 60.96 cm x 76.2 cm), and a maximum weight of 50 pounds (22.68 kg) per piece.

Any luggage exceeding these size and weight limits will not be allowed on board.

Can You Carry Your Own Luggage on a Cruise?

Yes, you can typically carry your own luggage on a Carnival cruise, including onto the ship.

This can be a convenient option, as it allows you to have greater control over your luggage and ensure that it stays with you until you can safely lock it in your cabin.

However, it’s important to note that carrying your own bags can require some extra effort on your part, especially if there are no porters available to assist you.

You may need to transport your bags up and down narrow hallways and multiple stairways, and elevators may not be available while the crew completes embarkation day tasks.

To make the process easier, consider packing lighter and using luggage with wheels or straps for easy transport.

Additionally, you can take advantage of Carnival’s luggage valet service, which allows you to check your bags at the port and have them delivered directly to your cabin, eliminating the need to carry your bags onto the ship.

Overall, whether you choose to carry your own bags or use the luggage valet service, it’s important to take the necessary precautions to ensure the safety of your luggage during your Carnival cruise.

Does The “3-1-1” Liquids Rule Apply To Cruises?

The “3-1-1” liquids rule that is enforced by the TSA (Transportation Security Administration) is specifically for flights and does not apply to cruise ships. Unlike air travel, there are no restrictions on the amount of liquids, gels, or aerosols that you can bring onboard a Carnival cruise ship.

This means that you can bring full-sized containers of shampoo, hairspray, or toothpaste from home without worrying about the “3-1-1” rule. However, it’s still important to pack these items carefully to avoid spills or leaks during transit.

While there are no specific restrictions on liquids for cruise travel, it’s always a good idea to check with Carnival’s website or contact them directly for any guidelines on what is and isn’t allowed in your luggage.

Prohibited Items on a Cruise

Cruise lines have specific guidelines on items that are prohibited on board for safety reasons. Some of the common items that are not allowed on a cruise include:

1. Illegal drugs or substances
2. Firearms, ammunition, explosives or other weapons
3. Hoverboards, Segways, and other personal transportation devices
4. Candles, incense, and any other open flames
5. Heating elements such as hot plates, coffee makers, and toasters
6. Drones or other remote-controlled flying devices
7. Scuba tanks, spearguns, and other diving equipment (unless approved by the cruise line)
8. Large coolers and other bulky items

In addition to the above, cruise lines also prohibit certain items that may pose a health or safety risk, such as certain types of food, medical equipment, and hazardous materials. It’s important to check with your specific cruise line for a full list of prohibited items before you pack for your trip.

What Happens If I Bring Something That I’m Not Supposed To?

If you bring something that is prohibited on a cruise, the item may be confiscated by the security team during the boarding process or during any inspection that takes place during the cruise.

Depending on the nature of the item, you may be asked to dispose of it or it may be held in a safe location on the ship until the end of the cruise. For example, if you bring alcohol on board, it may be held until the end of the cruise, and returned to you before you disembark.

If the item is illegal, such as drugs or weapons, the cruise line will turn it over to the appropriate authorities and you may face legal consequences.

It’s important to review the list of prohibited items provided by your cruise line before packing and to make sure that you comply with all rules and regulations. If you have any questions or concerns about a specific item, it’s always best to contact the cruise line directly for clarification.

Can I Bring Alcohol In My Bags When Boarding?

With the exception of embarkation day, guests are not allowed to bring alcoholic beverages on board.

However, during embarkation day, guests who are 21 years of age or older are permitted to bring one 750-ml bottle of unopened and sealed wine or champagne per person in their carry-on luggage.

Bringing bottled water, sodas, and other non-alcoholic beverages on board is not allowed.

However, guests can bring a limited amount of non-alcoholic beverages such as sparkling water, sodas, juice, and milk that are packaged in cans or cartons on embarkation day.

These items must be packed in the guest’s carry-on luggage and should not exceed a maximum of 12 sealed, unopened cans/cartons of 12 ounces (approximately 350 ml) or less per person.

It’s important to note that all alcoholic beverages, as well as non-alcoholic beverages that do not meet the exceptions mentioned above, are strictly prohibited in both checked and carry-on luggage.

Any such items found during security checks will be confiscated and discarded, and no compensation will be provided.

Will My Bags Be Searched On A Cruise Ship?

Yes, your bags will be subject to security screening when boarding a Carnival cruise ship. This is a standard procedure for all cruise lines to ensure the safety of passengers and crew members.

The security team will scan your bags using X-ray machines and may conduct physical inspections if necessary. They will be looking for any prohibited items such as weapons, illegal drugs, alcohol, or other items that may pose a risk to the safety and security of the ship and its passengers.

How Much To Tip Cruise Luggage Porters

The recommended tip amount for cruise luggage porters is $2-$3 per bag.

For example, if you have two bags, you could tip the porter $4-$6. It’s important to have cash on hand to tip the porter directly as they are not allowed to accept tips added to your onboard account.

It’s also a good idea to have your bags tagged with the cruise line luggage tags before handing them over to the porter. This will help ensure that your bags are properly identified and delivered to your stateroom once you board the ship.

Overall, tipping is a personal decision, and you can adjust the amount based on the level of service you receive or your budget.

But as a general guideline, tipping the cruise luggage porters is considered a standard practice in the cruise industry.

Carnival Luggage Tags

The luggage tags provided by Carnival will assist the ship’s porters in delivering your luggage directly to your stateroom.

Once you have completed the online check-in for your Carnival cruise, you’ll receive personalized luggage tags along with your electronic documents.

These tags can be accessed on the following website: www.carnival.com/BookedGuest

You should print out your luggage tags at home. Black and white is fine – you don’t need to print Carnival luggage tags in colour.

Before you arrive at the port you should fasten your luggage tags to your baggage. If you don’t have enough tags, don’t worry, you can get extra ones from the curbside porters.

If the cabin number on your luggage tag says TBA, the porters will retag your luggage with the correct cabin number.

What To Put In Your Carry-On Bag

It’s always a good idea to pack a carry-on bag with the essential items that you may need before your checked luggage arrives in your stateroom.

Here are some suggestions for what to put in your carry-on bag for a cruise:

1. Travel documents: This includes your passport or other identification, cruise tickets, boarding passes, and any other important travel documents.
2. Medications: Any prescription medications or other essential over-the-counter medications should be packed in your carry-on bag.
3. Valuables: Any valuable items such as jewelry, cash, and electronics should be kept in your carry-on bag.
4. Change of clothes: It’s a good idea to pack a change of clothes, including swimwear and comfortable shoes, in case your checked luggage is delayed or lost.
5. Toiletries: Pack a small bag with travel-sized toiletries, such as toothpaste, toothbrush, deodorant, and any other personal hygiene items you may need.
6. Entertainment: Pack a book, e-reader, or tablet, and headphones to keep you entertained during the embarkation process.
7. Snacks and water: Pack some snacks and a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated and avoid purchasing expensive snacks on board.

Remember that carry-on bags are subject to security screening, so it’s important to check the policies for prohibited items before packing your bag.

It’s also a good idea to label your carry-on bag with your name and contact information in case it gets misplaced or lost during embarkation.

Can You Bring Snacks On A Carnival Cruise?

You can bring pre-packaged and unopened food and snacks on your Carnival cruise.

However, homemade food is not permitted on board the ship due to safety and hygiene reasons. Candy and potato chips are examples of pre-packaged snacks that are allowed on board.

It’s important to note that any fresh produce, meats, or dairy products are not allowed to be brought on board the ship.

The cruise line offers a variety of dining options and meal services, so you won’t go hungry while on your cruise.

Additionally, it’s recommended that you pack your snacks in your carry-on luggage, as checked luggage may not be accessible until later in the day.

Can You Bring Soda On A Carnival Cruise?

On a Carnival cruise, each guest is permitted to bring a 12-pack of soda in cans or cartons up to 12 ounces (350ml) in size. Alternatively, you may also bring other non-alcoholic beverages like sparkling water, juice, or milk.

The beverages should also be in their original, unopened packaging for safety and security reasons.

If you exceed the 12-can limit, any additional beverages will be confiscated and discarded by the cruise line.

Can You Bring Bottled Water On A Carnival Cruise?

Bottled water is not allowed to be brought on board a Carnival cruise. However, you have the option to purchase a package of 12 bottles of water which will be delivered to your stateroom for a fee of $4.95.

If you require distilled water for medical reasons or for your baby, you may bring it in your carry-on luggage or purchase it from room service for $3.00 per gallon. It’s recommended that you pack the distilled water in its original packaging and label it clearly for ease of identification.

Can You Bring Wine On A Carnival Cruise?

Adults (21 years and older) on a Carnival cruise are allowed to bring one 750ml bottle of wine or champagne per person to be consumed in their stateroom.

Make sure to pack this bottle of wine in your carry-on luggage.

Can You Bring Vapes On A Carnival Cruise?

Vape pens are permitted on board Carnival cruise ships, but it’s important to note that vaping is treated the same as smoking.

This means that you can only use your vape pen in designated smoking areas and not in your stateroom or on your balcony.

It’s important to respect the designated smoking areas on board and to follow all posted signs and regulations.

Vaping in non-designated areas or violating the cruise line’s smoking policies can result in disciplinary action.

Additionally, it’s important to pack your vape pen and any associated accessories in your carry-on luggage, as they are not allowed in checked luggage.

It’s also recommended to bring enough supplies for the duration of your cruise, as you will not be able to find replacement items on board.

Can You Bring Weed On A Carnival Cruise?

Carnival Cruise Line strictly prohibits the possession and use of marijuana of all kinds, including medical marijuana with a prescription and CBD, on board their ships.

This policy is in line with federal and international laws, as well as the cruise line’s own regulations.

Passengers found in possession of marijuana or any other illegal substances will face serious consequences, including disembarkation at the next port of call and possible legal action.

It’s important to note that even if you have a prescription for medical marijuana, it is not allowed on board Carnival cruise ships.

Passengers with medical conditions requiring the use of medication should make sure to bring enough supplies to last the duration of their cruise and to check with the cruise line’s policies on bringing medication on board.

Can You Bring Cigars On A Carnival Cruise?

Similar to cigarettes and vapes, cigars and tobacco pipes can be brought on board Carnival cruise ships, and there are designated smoking areas where they can be enjoyed.

However, these areas are typically more limited compared to areas where cigarette smoking is allowed.

Can You Bring A Drone On A Carnival Cruise?

As of May 2022, Carnival Cruise Line has implemented a complete ban on drones on their ships. Previously, guests were allowed to bring drones in their luggage to use outside of the ship and port area.

However, now it is required that guests check in their drones with the Chief Security Officer.

This means that guests are no longer permitted to use drones for photography or any other purposes while on board a Carnival cruise ship. Any drones found on board will be confiscated and held until the end of the cruise.