What to pack for a cruise
Sources checked . Final review by Sean Williams pending.
Pack your passport or other cruise documents, medications and a change of clothes in a carry-on, because checked bags can take hours to reach your cabin on embarkation day. Then pack for three settings: sea days, port days and dinner. Check your cruise line's prohibited items list before you close the suitcase.
| Carry-on essentials | Travel documents, medications, swimwear, a change of clothes, chargers |
|---|---|
| Documents (closed-loop cruise) | Passport recommended; CBP accepts photo ID plus birth certificate for U.S. citizens |
| Flying to the port | TSA liquids rule for carry-ons: 3.4 ounces (100 ml) per container, in one quart-size bag |
| Prohibited items | Set by each cruise line; check its published list |
What goes in my carry-on bag?
Everything you cannot be without for the first few hours. On embarkation day, porters take checked bags at the terminal and they can arrive at your cabin late in the afternoon or evening.
- Passport or other accepted documents, and your boarding pass
- Medications, in their original containers
- Phone, chargers and any glasses or contacts
- Swimwear and a change of clothes
- Sunscreen and a refillable water bottle
What clothes should I pack for a cruise?
Pack for three settings. Sea days call for swimwear and casual clothes; port days call for walking shoes, sun protection and clothes that suit local customs; evenings call for whatever your line's dress code asks.
Pack lighter if you are flying to the port and paying for checked bags. Pack a small day bag if you plan on excursions in port.
What documents should I bring?
A passport book is the safest choice. For a closed-loop cruise, CBP lets U.S. citizens re-enter with a government-issued photo ID plus proof of citizenship such as a birth certificate. See our passport guide.
What should I leave at home?
Anything on your cruise line's prohibited items list. Lists differ by line, so check the official list for your ship rather than relying on forum posts.
What if I'm flying to the port?
Carry-on liquids must follow TSA's rule: containers of 3.4 ounces (100 ml) or less in one quart-size bag. Put larger toiletries in checked luggage, and keep documents and medications in your carry-on in case a bag is delayed. See what to do if your luggage is lost.
How do I stay healthy on board?
Wash your hands often, especially before eating, and report stomach illness to the ship's medical center. The CDC's cruise ship travel guidance covers the most common risks.
Frequently asked questions
- What should I keep in my carry-on for a cruise?
- Documents, medications, valuables, chargers and anything you need before your checked bag arrives, such as swimwear or a change of clothes.
- Can I bring alcohol on a cruise?
- Each cruise line sets its own rule, and some allow a small amount of wine or champagne at embarkation. Check your line's policy before you pack any.
- Do I need formal clothes on a cruise?
- It depends on the line. Some have one or more dressy evenings and others are casual every night. Your cruise documents list the dress code.
- What should I not pack for a cruise?
- Items on your cruise line's prohibited list, which commonly include things like clothing irons and weapons. Check the list rather than guessing.
- Should I bring cash on a cruise?
- Cruise ships charge onboard purchases to your account, but some cash in small bills helps for porters at the terminal and spending in ports.
Sources
Founder, Egretline Travel ยท Tampa, Florida
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