Are you getting ready for a cruise soon? You might be wondering what items you will need to bring with you on your cruise. No worries! Below is a brief list of important items you’ll want to have with you to ensure a fun and worry-free cruise. To help reduce the chances of anything getting lost or left behind, it is recommended to pack all these items in a carry-on bag with your cruise essentials. In addition to your carry-on bag, remember to also pack some clothes, shoes, and toiletries into another suitcase for your cruise. Then you are ready to go cruise the high seas!
A cruise is a vacation experience like no other. On a cruise, you are on a floating hotel, with multiple destinations. On a cruise, you enjoy the perk of traveling from one beautiful exotic location to the next without ever having to worry about checking into and out of hotels, fighting traffic and road rage, etc. Instead, on a cruise, you simply unpack your bags once, then you kick back and relax at the pool with a drink in your hand as you watch the ever-changing scenery as you sail along. You also enjoy the benefit of many vacation options, activities, and entertainment all included and conveniently available on the cruise ship itself.
You can choose from going to formal sit-down dinners with multiple courses, or you can grab a quick bite at the buffet restaurant. You can stay onboard relaxing poolside, or you can go watch a live Broadway-style show. You can choose to lounge on deck reading a book in the sun, or you can join Zumba or pilates classes at the gym onboard. You can go to the spa for a massage or hop in the hot tub. Whatever you’re in the mood for, it’s nice to know that the choices are plenty, and they’re all provided onboard the ship.
Travel Documents
A cruise ship vacation begins long before boarding day. It starts with careful planning—selecting a cruise, booking it, arranging for flights, hotels, shore excursions, pre- and post-cruise trips, etc. After arrangements are confirmed, many items should be gathered to prepare for embarkation and bring onboard the ship. The following are necessary and recommended items to maximize the safety, security, and enjoyment of the cruise.
Documents that you must have to travel: Travel documents. Most importantly, each passenger must have proper documentation to board the ship. Travel restrictions dictate what is required to set sail, and having improper or insufficient documentation can ruin a vacation. Travel regulations are strict, and card-carrying cruise companies cannot make exceptions to allow boarding without proper documents. Travel documents should be treated with great care; they should not be left unattended, lost, or stolen. Travel documents required to board a cruise ship include: passport, visa, and boarding pass/itinerary.
Passport and Visa. U.S. law states that all travelers must have a valid passport to travel outside the country. U.S. citizens traveling to countries such as Canada and Mexico must carry a valid passport or government-issued photo ID, and travel outside North America must have a valid passport. For children under the age of 16, a certified birth certificate indicating citizenship is also necessary. Failure to present the required documents upon return to the U.S. could result in being barred re-entry into the country. Whenever possible, people are encouraged to travel with a passport.
Travelers from other countries should check with their governments and cruise lines concerning the travel documentation necessary to board a cruise ship. Most countries also require a passport to leave and re-enter the country. Some countries (but not all) also require a visa to enter the country; some countries will deny entry without a visa. Certain countries automatically grant a visa for a limited time upon arrival, while others require that a visa must be arranged through a tourist agent or government office prior to travel. India, Brazil, China, and Russia are examples of countries where visas must be secured well before travel dates.
Cruise line companies can provide the necessary information regarding visas and documentation required for travel to each country on the cruise itinerary. Passengers with travel itineraries that include ports of call outside the United States must provide documentary proof of citizenship with a passport to the cruise company to ensure compliance. The cruise line must comply with all government regulations concerning travel documentation, and being denied boarding because of insufficient documentation is the traveler’s responsibility.
Passport and Visa
Traveling on a cruise ship is a fun and memorable experience that many people want to try. However, before boarding a ship, there are a few essential items one should never forget to pack, and some necessary travel documents.
The most important travel document is a passport and visa, if needed. A passport is an official document that shows a person’s nationality and identity. Most cruise ship companies will not let you board without a passport. People are strongly advised to keep their passports safe while on the cruise ship, as cruise companies will not offer refunds for lost or stolen passports, nor will they pay for a new passport. If the cruise goes to a different country, a visa may also be needed. A visa is an official document that allows someone to enter and stay in a foreign country. Visas vary in length and are issued for different purposes, so it’s best to check with the cruise ship company to find out if a visa is required.
Boarding Pass and Itinerary
Before venturing upon a cruise, one must ensure to bring along their boarding pass and itinerary. There are two benefits of these boarding passes and itineraries:
1. The boarding pass is one of the most important papers one needs while going on a cruise. Without it, one will not be allowed to board the ship. Similar to flight tickets, the boarding passes can be printed or kept in smartphones. Having the boarding pass printed reduces the hassle of searching for the tickets on the phones and gives a tangible copy of the paper that is extremely essential to board the cruise ship.
2. The itinerary is also an important paper needed on a cruise. It has all the details of one’s plans on the cruise and all the booked activities along with their timings. The itinerary should be kept on display on the cruise at all times and should be referred to in case one forgets the plan of the day.
Clothing and Accessories
Packing for a cruise is not as simple as it may seem. Although you will mostly be relaxing onboard with very few formal public activities, it is still important to consider your clothing style. Here are some essential items you should bring with you on the cruise.
Casual daywear is essential in ensuring that you stay comfortable throughout the cruise. For most onboard activities, you will come across the casual daywear norm. Consider packing shorts if you are taking a tropical cruise with warm temperatures. They are easy to pack and wear and will keep you comfortable during various activities. Consider tank tops and shirts with half or three-quarter sleeves that offer comfort and protection from the sun. If you’re going on a trip to a cooler climate, lightweight long-sleeve shirts are also essential to pack. Leisurewear, loungewear, or pajamas would be very comfortable for relaxing in your cabin after any evening activities. If you’re a sunbather or a reader at sea, bathing suits or moisture-wicking spa cover-ups are important items to bring. Lastly, sweaters or jackets are essential items to consider when you’re expecting cold winds or evenings on the upper decks.
When packing for what to wear to dinner or evening activities, it is important to account for how formal the cruise is. Most mid to large ocean-going vessels and some large river boats require at least one formal evening where men are required to wear a dinner suit or tuxedo and women are required to wear long evening gowns. Most of the other evenings would be considered smart casual evenings. Men would wear suits or jackets while women wear holiday dresses or skirts. Casual wear is acceptable for dining on less formal vessels, but most people dress up smartly regardless. Specialty restaurants may have separate attire rules, usually being of smart casual dress code. At less formal venues, shorts and sandals would be acceptable on all cruise ships. Women would wear dresses or skirts and blouses while men wear trousers, collared shirts, and shoes.
Many cruise trips are designed to take advantage of the sun. Important accessories to bring will vary based on the type of cruise. Sunscreen, sunglasses, hats, and water bottles are important on most tropical trips. For long travels, seasickness medications or bracelets may be essential. If you need anything other than basic toiletries, such as tampons, contact lens solution, or special medications, it is likely that you’ll need to bring them with you.
Casual Daywear
Casual daywear often consists of lightweight sundresses, shorts and T-shirts, or capri pants, all of which pack easily, dry quickly if wet, and look stylish even if slightly wrinkled. In the hotter areas such as the Caribbean or South Pacific, people usually wear less and try to keep their bare skin covered as much as possible from the midday sun. A wide-brimmed hat is recommended, but other terrific alternatives are baseball caps or visors. Most sunburn problems can be avoided by simply wearing a light, long-sleeved loose shirt and pants of a breathable fabric such as linen. Women may also consider cotton shawls and wraps for sun protection. Sunscreen lotions are also a must, and it is advisable to use a high SPF level and apply it at least a half hour before exposure. Regular reapplication is also needed. Since most daywear is very casual, it is advisable to pack at least one dressier outfit for the daytime. A pair of linen trousers, a linen shirt, and sandals for men can be complemented with a cotton sundress and a knitted shawl for women. Bringing a beach cover-up can also come in handy for quick cover-ups when leaving the beach or entering certain restaurants.
Formal Attire for Dinner
Wondering what to wear on a cruise? Most cruise lines will have formal dress-up evenings. The first night on any cruise holiday is generally a smart casual or semi-formal evening where guests generally don their smartest evening clothes or best suits. This is then followed by a formal night where cruise passengers are requested to wear the best formal or evening wear including suits, tuxedos, ball gowns, and cocktail dresses. Here’s a helpful rundown on what gentlemen and ladies should wear on cruises including the best cruise clothing tips:
Men’s Evening Wear: What to Wear to a Formal Dinner on a Cruise Smart Casual or Semi-Formal Evening Wear: On cruise line dress-up nights, gentlemen are usually required to wear smart/casual clothing including jackets, trousers, shirts, and shoes. They should try to avoid the “jeans and sneakers” look. A linen jacket and a collared shirt should be a good idea for the hot Caribbean or similar destinations. Always a good idea to check with the cruise line what constitutes smart casual or semi-formal as it can differ greatly on dress codes on different cruise lines.
Formal Evening Wear: This includes black tie or tuxedos and suits, satin ties, cummerbunds, waistcoats, and polished leather shoes are a good idea. On some premium cruise lines dress codes are more strict than others. However, on some cruise lines – especially transatlantic cruise crossings – various black-tie formals are requested on elegant evening dinners.
Popular Questions from Cruisers: What Should Men Wear on a Cruise? Is a Dress Required on a Caribbean Seven Day Cruise? Can I Wear Swimming Attire with a T-shirt Cover Up?
Women’s Evening Wear: What to Wear to a Formal Dinner on a Cruise Smart Casual or Semi-Formal Evening Wear: For cruise passengers who are looking for something that is semi-formal or smart/casual to wear on cruise line dress-up evenings, here are some great suggestions:
Crinkle dresses, long skirts, tailored trousers, linen dresses, and skirts, blouses or tops for ladies are essential as well as dressier tops. Smart jackets – both casual jackets or linen jackets can add style to a casual or dressy evening dinner. Heels are always smart; however, they may not be essential if going for an evening stroll up on deck. If going for a big night at the club, stilettos could be part of the evening outfit. Flat comfort shoes are also essential.
Formal Evening Wear: This includes evening gowns, one-shouldered dresses, long satin dresses, and cocktail dresses. Other essential toiletries needed for day to night cruise wear include pearls, any other luxe jewelry, a clutch handbag, fancy sandals, tiaras and headbands, and glitter hair spray.
Swimwear and Cover-ups
Beach Time Basics
Swimming in a pool or in the sea is like one of the best things to do on a cruise (after they set sail). Swimming, lounging on pool chairs, and sipping drinks are likely morning to afternoon activities on a cruise. In preparation for this, swimwear (for both men and women), rashies, and swimming goggles are some of the essentials to bring. An extra pair of swimming attire is also useful in case the first one gets wet from swimming.
Morning costumes aren’t complete without cover-ups. Cover-ups are like sheds for swimming costumes to protect them from flashing. When one leaves the pool or beach, putting on cover-ups is essential before walking through the inside of the cruise. Even on a stroll to dining or bars after swimming, wearing a cover-up avoids too much attention to swimwear and maintains modesty and respectfulness. During ports, if the country intended to leave the ship is a beach, wearing a cover-up is useful and makes it easier to go from the boat to the beach without walking the land too bare. Cover-ups can be dresses, shorts, and t-shirts.
Tips for Getting a Good Fit
Swimwear should be tried before purchase. For women, the cut of swimwear affects the way it fits their body. For those who have a plus-size body, purchasing swimwear that uses different kinds of material (polyester, etc.) should be considered because the stitching and the material itself affects the fitting. For men, swim trunks fit differently on each body type (slim, muscular, etc.) hence choosing the right style and fit that is comfortable should be considered.
A bulky cover-up will make one feel bulky. This can be prevented by wearing fitted cover-ups. When walking along with the cruise, side straps of the beach dress can also be tied to avoid it snagging from one side.
Cover-ups can also be worn while in the pool or the beach. In that way, it preserves modesty while going to the swimming area.
Toiletries and Medications
Toiletries and basic medications are also items you shouldn’t forget to bring along on board the cruise ship. Toothbrushes, toothpaste, shampoo, soap or shower gel, deodorant, razors, make-up, and feminine products are all some toiletries you will need to maintain personal care and hygiene. Don’t forget to bring necessary prescription medications so you won’t run out on board (Dahl, 2009). Other over-the-counter medications are good to pack as well, such as seasick pills, allergy medicines, or pain relievers (Werder et al., 2022).
Personal Care Items
Individuals should bring proper shampoo and conditioner along when going on cruises. Other hair products include hair gel, hair spray, hair bands, hair brushes/combs, hair straighteners, etc. Dry shampoo is also a good option to have with a short hairstyle. Sunscreens are essential for cruises in tropical areas; it is better to bring a personal choice of sunscreen along than to buy an unknown one offered on a cruise ship. Lip balm with sun protection is also better not to forget. Self-tanning lotions also work well, and after-sun lotions can feel good after a long day on the beach. For those with skincare routines, bring along personal creams, purging soaps, etc. Other personal hygiene products include deodorant, toothbrushes/pastes, razors, tampons, facial wipes, hair removal cream, and cotton pads. Shower gel, shampoo, and conditioner are often offered in a cruise ship cabin. However, there is no guarantee that the offered ones will work. Body lotions and face creams are good to bring along as the sea air can often dry the skin (Werder et al., 2022).
Prescription Medications
If you have prescription medications that you take regularly, it’s important that you bring enough for your entire cruise. This is particularly important if the medical condition you take the prescribed medication for cannot be managed without the medication. Remember to bring your prescription medications in their original containers—this is especially recommended for controlled substances and anything else that is not over-the-counter (Vukić et al., 2018). It’s advisable to have a letter from your doctor that details the condition the medication is for and what medications you take for it. Also, if you take any medications that do not have generic versions, it’s good to bring the name of the medication and the manufacturer name, in case you do run out while you’re cruising.
It’s also a good idea to ask your doctor for an emergency supply of any medications that you take that you could not manage without. لضبط (تمويع) medications that don’t require a prescription usually have a cap on how many can be purchased over the counter in a 24-hour period. However, it is often possible to obtain much larger amounts using more than one pharmacy.
Electronics and Gadgets
In today’s ever-connected world, ensuring that you have the right electronics and gadgets on your cruise is a must. The following suggestions include the essentials, as well as some nice-to-haves that will help you enjoy your cruise vacation to the fullest.
A cellular phone is an obvious item to bring on a cruise. However, you should also pack its charger. Phones have become a necessary part of life, keeping you connected on land and at sea. A phone can be used to make calls, text, and access the Internet. Additionally, some cruise lines offer apps that provide information on the ship’s daily activities. If using phone apps, ensure to take a portable backup battery. Most apps require battery power, and a battery pack will keep the phone powered longer.
A camera captures the amazing memories you create on the cruise. While many modern phones now offer sophisticated phone cameras, some still prefer a dedicated camera. If you have chosen a camera, don’t forget to bring the charger. Once again, a portable battery pack can come in handy for powering cameras as they operate on battery power. For those who enjoy underwater photography, a GoPro-style camera is a must! Many cruise excursions include ocean snorkeling, and nothing beats capturing the underwater sights! If taking a GoPro, review the settings before the trip, especially the battery management and usage.
Phone and Charger
Your phone is not only a vessel for communication, but also a versatile tool for capturing memories, navigating the unfamiliar, and keeping connected with friends and family. As such, it has the capacity to serve as your camera, navigator, alarm clock, and a myriad of other practical gadgets. Given its multifaceted role, it’s crucial to remember to pack your phone and charger; otherwise, you could feel inept during your travels. To ensure smooth sailing, here is a rundown of everything you need to know regarding taking your phone along on your cruise.
Before embarking on your voyage, it’s best to verify whether there’s a need to apply for an extended plan with your mobile service provider, or simply take a lengthy vacation from your phone to avoid unwanted international roaming charges. However, with the sudden interest in all-inclusive cruise packages, many major phone service providers—such as US Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile—offer plans that comprise unlimited calls, texts, and data while onboard cruise ships. These cruise packages guarantee you’ll stay connected on your cruise without worrying about breaking the bank. If your provider doesn’t provide cruise packages, don’t fret. Free Wi-Fi can usually be found on the ship or in most ports, including nearby cafes and shops.
Many tend to pack their charger by merely tossing it in their luggage, neglecting to check whether the charger fits international wall plugs. Wise travelers might pack an international travel adapter for use on foreign soil, albeit possibly leaving themselves without a compatible charger for their phone if it does not fit the on-board plug types. Looking into what type of wall plugs and voltage their cruise ships use beforehand can prevent electronics from needing replacements.
Camera or GoPro
When traveling, taking photographs or shooting videos is a way of having mementos and sharing experiences with family and friends. These memories can be captured within seconds through the lens of a camera, cell phone, or GoPro. Bringing these gadgets depends on personal preference, activity, and lifestyle. Having a camera is great. Photographers take pictures to capture and cherish special memories. They go as far as clicking random strangers in an unknown city to get street photographs for their collections. For those who can’t live without snapping pictures, a camera is the essential item to bring on a cruise ship. Pictures of family on deck during breakfast will warm the heart decades later.
A waterproof disposable camera can be bought before getting on the cruise. It offers the experience of waiting to get the mails back containing a bunch of unexpected pictures. But if a camera with more versatility is personal preference, a regular point-and-shoot is fine too, as long as it doesn’t get dropped in the ocean while trying to snap that perfect beach picture. A lot of the cruise lines have photographers who will take pictures during the fancy dinners and excursions. They will print out the pictures and put them on display at the end of the cruise, making it hard to resist buying them. But that was family tradition back in the day, using money from the allowing budget to buy pictures, and they now display the pictures together in the living room at home.
Another item to bring is a GoPro camera, the one with a little retractable selfie stick that extends way out over the edge of the bar in the mountains of Alaska. It comes with a waterproof case which is phenomenal for going snorkeling. Exploring the waterways and getting a close encounter with stingrays, sharks, and fish of all varieties is indescribable, just awesome! The underwater pictures are priceless. A GoPro is a perfect addition for a cruise. There will be several excursions that are water-related, such as zip-lining over the forest canopy, hiking the rainforests, and going to remote beaches. The GoPro will add another element of fun. There will be a memory capture that will bring back smiles for years to come.
Miscellaneous Items
Sunscreen and sunglasses, travel essentials that are easily overlooked, should be at the top of your list for a cruise. You’ll want suitable amounts of sunscreen for all family members, especially those with sensitive skin. The sun’s rays are magnified while cruising due to sunlight reflecting off the water, increasing the risk of getting sunburn. Parents should be aware of their children’s exposure and be diligent in applying sunscreen to sensitive areas. Depending on the activities planned at port stops, various types of sunscreen are available: spray, lotion, or stick. For your cruise, a spray can is recommended for easy application on children. Ensure that a bottle is packed in your carry-on luggage as it can be confiscated if stored in checked luggage, as per TSA regulations. The sunscreen should be at least SPF 30 for adequate protection. Likewise, plan to pack sunglasses for everyone, as rays can be troublesome and damaging to the eyes. Polarized glasses are the best option to ensure clear visibility while enjoying nature views. Again, the best fit would be for everyone to have sunglasses ready to wear during boarding time, as it will most likely be sunny while the ship is outside.
Considering the potential high costs of drinks, pack a reusable water bottle for your trip. Most cruise ships provide free water stations for guests, where purified water can be filled. The shipping company typically sells a travel mug costing around $10 to $20, but any refillable bottle would do. If your family is traveling with children or multiple family members, consider taking a larger pitcher-style water jar. It will quickly refill water bottles to keep everyone hydrated throughout the day.
Sunscreen and Sunglasses
There are two main reasons why almost everyone needs sunscreen on a cruise ship. First, sunscreen is helpful to keep from being sunburned and getting skin cancer. Second, large ships with lots of open deck space tend to bring in a lot of people. Regardless of where a person is from, you should be careful about sunlight. Some people need to be lighter while others need to be darker. If someone is unsure of what kind of sunscreen they should bring, most cruise line websites have a “what to bring” section. For Vision Cruise members, don’t forget about the discount shopping in the ship’s port. Of course, sailing and getting the ships into port also have their place in the vacation, but relaxed poolside fun is what it’s all about.
While a person in the North may not need sunglasses, people from the south need one (or five) pairs. With today’s price of everything, the best option is to bring your latest or favorite pair of sunglasses. To protect them while on the trip, store them in a hard case and then put that hard case into a bag or backpack. Only take them out of the hard case when wearing them. After all, who hasn’t scratched or snapped their sunglasses? It can happen in just a few seconds with no chance of saving them (except with a spare (plastic) pair). On cruise ships, free “tacky” sunglasses are not as easy to find as on land.
Reusable Water Bottle
When enjoying a cruise, staying hydrated is essential for your comfort and health. However, purchasing water bottles on the cruise might prove expensive, and drinking tap water might be risky. To avoid these issues, a reusable water bottle is a must-have item.
Every cruise line provides water stations around the vessel that offer complimentary tap water and lemonade or infused water. Most cruise lines also have tap water in public restrooms and at many bars onboard. A reusable water bottle is the perfect item to have in this situation since they are typically equipped with a wide mouth that makes filling it up easy, and they can also keep drinks cold for a long time.
When taking day trips to different cruise ports, a reusable bottle is also a great item to take along. Some ports do not allow cruise passengers to bring drinks or food from the ship, and water bottles might help you save on that. Just keep in mind to stay hydrated and drink water instead of soda or sugary drinks.