28+ Packing Tips You’ll Regret Not Knowing Before Your First Cruise!
Heading out on your first cruise is SO exciting! But packing can feel like a challenge.
From remembering essential documents to picking the right clothes for every occasion, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. But don’t worry!
If you’re a first-time cruise, we’ve got you covered… We go through all the packing tips we wish someone had told US on our first cruise..
So you can sit back, relax, and NOT overpack.
Packing Tip For Your First Cruise
Too busy to read? Get the list emailed to you!
Essential Documents
Packing for your first cruise starts with your essential documents. These items are crucial for a smooth embarkation and will ensure you don’t hit any roadblocks before boarding.
Be sure to have your passport, birth certificate, or enhanced driver’s license for proof of citizenship.
Take digital photos of these documents in case they get lost. You’ll also need your cruise documents, including boarding passes and any important confirmation details, as well as flight information if you’re flying to the departure port.
It’s also a good idea to have any necessary vaccination certificates or medical documents on hand, especially if required by your cruise line or port of call.
Don’t forget a list of your prescriptions, your insurance card, and any medical history that could be helpful in an emergency.
Make your life easier by printing hard copies of all important documents, and store them safely in a travel wallet or secure pocket in your carry-on bag.
- Passport, birth certificate, or enhanced driver’s license
- Digital photos of important documents
- Cruise documents (boarding passes, confirmation details)
- Flight information
- Vaccination certificates or medical documents (if required)
- Prescription list, insurance card, and medical history
Pack a Carry-On Backpack
On embarkation day, you won’t see your checked luggage until later, but that doesn’t mean you have to wait to start your vacation. A carry-on backpack is your best friend for those first few hours.
Pack it with things you’ll need immediately, like your phone, wallet, sunscreen, bathing suit, and sunglasses. These items will let you dive right into exploring your ship, lounging by the pool, or grabbing a quick bite to eat.
Beyond that, your backpack can double as a day bag for shore excursions. Whether you’re heading out for a snorkeling trip or a sightseeing tour, this bag is perfect for holding your essentials like your camera, wallet, and any tickets or documents you may need.
Plus, it’s spacious enough to bring home a few souvenirs from your adventures.
Bring a Small First-Aid Kit
No one wants to think about being sick or hurt on vacation, but a small first-aid kit is always a smart thing to pack. A basic kit will have pain relievers, cough drops, and seasickness remedies.
Seasickness can sneak up on anyone, especially on the first day, so bring along wristbands, ginger chews, or whatever works best for you.
It’s also a good idea to carry allergy medication, adhesive bandages, antiseptic wipes, and antibacterial hand gel to handle small injuries or ailments.
Even if you don’t think you’ll need it, having a first-aid kit on hand can help prevent little issues from ruining your vacation.
With a few basic supplies, you’ll feel more prepared for any minor bumps or bruises that could happen while you’re out exploring the ship or participating in shore excursions. It’s always better to be safe than sorry!
- Pain relievers
- Cough drops
- Seasickness remedies (wristbands, ginger chews)
- Allergy medication
- Adhesive bandages
- Antiseptic wipes
- Antibacterial hand gel
Toiletry Essentials
You don’t forget the toiletries and personal care items that will help you stay fresh and comfortable when packing!
While cruise ships do provide basic soap and shampoo, you may want to bring your own favorites for a more personalized experience.
Consider packing shampoo and conditioner, body wash or bar soap, and a hairbrush or comb if you prefer your own.
Other essential items include your toothbrush and toothpaste, dental floss, deodorant, and a razor with shaving cream. If you wear contact lenses, pack enough solution for the entire trip.
Also, make sure to include your skincare routine, including facial cleanser, moisturizer, and sunscreen. For feminine hygiene, remember to bring products like tampons or pads, and don’t forget other small necessities such as tweezers, nail clippers, and lip balm.
Finally, always pack a travel-sized hand sanitizer and wet wipes, as they’ll come in handy when you’re out and about on shore excursions. With these toiletries packed, you’ll be ready to feel clean and comfortable no matter where you are!
- Shampoo and Conditioner (if you prefer your own)
- Body Wash or Bar Soap (if you prefer your own)
- Toothbrushes and Toothpaste
- Dental Floss or Floss Picks
- Hairbrush or Comb
- Deodorant
- Razor and Shaving Cream
- Skincare Products (cleanser, moisturizer, sunscreen)
- Contact Lenses and Solution (if applicable)
- Feminine Hygiene Products
- Tweezers and Nail Clippers
- Personal Medications (enough for the entire trip plus a few extra days)
- Hand Sanitizer and Wet Wipes
- Lip Balm
- Makeup and Makeup Remover
- Q-tips and Cotton Pads
- Hair Ties or Clips
- Sunscreen and After-Sun Lotion (for sunburn relief)
- Insect Repellent (if you’re visiting destinations with bugs)
Electronics and Accessories You’ll Need on Your First Cruise
Cruising is all about relaxation, but there are a few electronics and accessories that will make your experience much smoother.
Don’t forget these essential items that will keep you connected, charged, and ready for all your adventures.
- Mobile Phone: It’s a must-have for your cruise! Not only will it help you stay in touch with friends and family, but you’ll also use it for photos, cruise apps, and even your boarding pass.
- Charging Cable: Be sure to pack the right cable for your phone and any other gadgets you plan to bring. It’s easy to forget, but crucial for keeping your devices powered throughout your trip.
- Multi-Port USB Charger: These chargers are compact and convenient for charging multiple devices at once. Many cruise cabins now have USB ports next to the bed, making this an even more efficient way to charge all your gadgets.
- Portable Charger: If you’re out exploring ports for the day, a portable charger can be a lifesaver. It keeps your phone powered while you’re away from your cabin and ensures you don’t miss capturing memories on your camera.
- Kindle or E-Book Reader: If you love to read, a Kindle or other e-book reader is a great space-saving option. With a variety of books right at your fingertips, you can unwind in the lounge or by the pool with your latest novel without carrying a bulky book around.
- Camera: While most phones take great photos, a dedicated camera can offer better quality shots, especially if you’re heading to the beach or exploring picturesque locations. Consider a waterproof camera for your water adventures!
Sun, Rain, and Bug Protection
When you’re on a cruise, you’ll be spending a lot of time outside, so sun protection is key. Bring sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to protect your skin from harmful rays.
Don’t forget sunglasses with UV protection and a wide-brimmed hat to shield your face. If you’re heading on a snorkeling or beach excursion, opt for eco-friendly sunscreen to follow environmental guidelines.
It’s also important to think about the weather. A small, compact umbrella or lightweight rain jacket will keep you dry if you get caught in a downpour. And, since some cruise destinations have lots of bugs, make sure you pack travel-sized mosquito repellent to avoid bites. These simple items will help keep you comfortable and safe throughout your trip.
- Sunscreen (SPF 30 or higher)
- Sunglasses with UV protection
- Wide-brimmed hat
- Eco-friendly sunscreen (for excursions)
- Compact umbrella
- Lightweight rain jacket
- Mosquito repellent
Comfortable Footwear
Choosing the right shoes is essential for a fun and comfortable cruise experience. Closed-toed sandals or water shoes with slip-resistant soles are ideal for both the pool deck and shore excursions.
Whether you’re walking around the ship, hitting the beach, or exploring outdoor markets, you’ll want shoes that are sturdy, quick-drying, and comfortable. Opt for something that won’t slow you down and can handle water or uneven terrain.
For onboard activities like hiking, jogging, or even a trip to the gym, it’s helpful to pack a pair of athletic shoes. Look for lightweight, breathable shoes that will keep your feet comfortable no matter where your cruise takes you. Trust us, a comfortable shoe can make a big difference when you’re walking a lot, whether it’s exploring your ship or on an adventure at port.
- Closed-toed sandals or water shoes
- Athletic shoes (for gym, hiking, etc.)
Proper Attire for Dinner
Cruise dinners can be a fun experience with their variety of options, from casual buffets to more formal sit-down meals. For regular dinners, smart-casual attire is usually the way to go.
Women can wear dresses or nice tops with skirts or pants, and men can go with slacks and collared shirts. On formal nights, you might want to bring a dressier outfit, like a cocktail dress or suit, depending on the cruise line’s dress code.
It’s also a good idea to pack layers for dinners, as some dining rooms might be chilly with air conditioning. Always check the dress code ahead of time to make sure you’re prepared. Packing smart-casual clothes will keep you looking great while enjoying delicious meals with new friends on board. Just be sure to pack enough for both casual and formal evenings!
- Smart-casual outfits (dresses, tops with skirts/pants)
- Formal night outfits (cocktail dress or suit)
- Layers for chilly dining rooms
Layer Up: Light Jacket, Sweater, or Wrap
Even if you’re heading to warm destinations, the evenings can get chilly out on the open sea. A light jacket, sweater, or wrap will keep you comfortable on deck after the sun goes down.
Whether you’re watching a movie by the pool or taking a walk along the promenade, these light layers will make a huge difference. Think about packing a versatile piece that works with both casual outfits and slightly dressier ones.
In addition to keeping you warm, these layers are easy to roll up and store in your bag when the weather heats up.
A simple sweater or jacket can easily turn an evening from uncomfortable to cozy, so don’t skip this important item. It’s the perfect way to balance comfort with style while you enjoy the fresh air at sea.
- Light jacket
- Sweater
- Wrap
Non-Surge Power Strip
Cruise cabins often have limited outlets, and if you’re like most travelers, you’ll have a variety of gadgets you need to charge. A non-surge power strip is the perfect solution.
Look for one that has several regular outlets and USB ports, so you can keep your phone, camera, tablet, or other electronics charged without worrying about running out of outlets. It’s especially handy when you need to power up multiple devices at once.
Make sure to get a non-surge power strip, as surge protectors are typically not allowed onboard for safety reasons.
These power strips are compact and easy to pack, so they won’t take up too much space in your luggage. With one of these, you’ll always have a charged phone to capture memories and stay connected.
Resealable Plastic Bags
Resealable plastic bags are a game-changer when it comes to packing for a cruise. They help keep your items dry during water-based excursions, like beach days or snorkeling trips.
You can use them to protect your phone, wallet, or camera from splashes while you’re out exploring. They’re also great for storing wet items, like swimsuits or toothbrushes, when you’re ready to pack up for the day.
These bags are lightweight and take up little space in your luggage, so you can bring plenty without worrying about bulk.
They’re one of those simple, practical items that can make your trip a lot easier. Whether you’re protecting your valuables or packing up wet clothes, resealable plastic bags are a must-have for any cruise.
- Small resealable plastic bags for valuables
- Bags for wet items (swimsuits, toothbrushes)
Hanging Organizers for Toiletries and Accessories
A hanging organizer is one of the best ways to stay neat and organized in your cruise cabin. Toiletry bags that hang from hooks or towel bars are perfect for storing all your essentials, like shampoo, conditioner, toothpaste, and makeup.
This system keeps everything easy to access and saves space on your cabin’s small countertops. For added convenience, you can use an over-the-door shoe organizer to store things like wallets, sunglasses, and water bottles.
These organizers can also help maximize your storage space and prevent clutter. It’s easier to find what you need when everything is neatly hung up and within reach.
Plus, they keep your items secure in a small space, which is especially useful when your cabin has limited storage options.
- Hanging toiletry bag
- Over-the-door shoe organizer
- Magnetic hooks
Don’t Forget…
There are a few more items that can make your cruise experience more enjoyable. Magnetic hooks are an underrated tool that can help keep your cabin neat by holding things like hats, wet swimsuits, and jackets.
Athletic shoes are a must if you plan to use the jogging track or hit up SportSquare™ on the ship. You’ll also want to bring a waterproof camera for underwater adventures like snorkeling or exploring scenic reefs.
If you plan to read on deck or while lounging in your cabin, don’t forget to pack some books or magazines. A magnetic message board is great for leaving notes to your travel companions in your cabin.
And a lanyard for your cruise keycard ensures you never lose your room key while on the go. These small essentials make cruising easier, more organized, and a lot more fun!
- Waterproof camera
- Magnetic message board
- Lanyard for cruise keycard
- Books or magazines
Conclusion
Packing for your first cruise doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right planning and the essentials in your bag, you’ll be ready to enjoy every moment of your vacation without worry.
From documents to clothing, these tips ensure you won’t forget anything important while still keeping your luggage light. Follow this guide, and you’ll be set for the adventure of a lifetime—ready to relax, explore, and make unforgettable memories.
Enjoyed this? Read this one next: 29 Cruise Cabin Hacks Every Traveler MUST-KNOW
