Epic Cruise Packing Checklist: The Ultimate Guide to What to Pack for a Cruise

Hey there, future cruiser! 🚢 So, you’re planning your dream cruise and the excitement is kicking in. Whether you're a seasoned sailor or first-timer, figuring out what to pack can be a bit overwhelming. No worries—We’ve got you covered with Blue Duck’s Epic Cruise Pack List! 

Download our Ultimate Cruise Packing List today for a customizable checklist of what you should (and should not) pack. You’ll also get Blue Duck’s cruising tips, our recommendation for the best time of year to book a cruise, and detailed to-dos leading up to your cruise to make your trip easy breezy. 

You’ll find a lot of blogs telling you to bring some pretty unexpected things on your cruise- we’ll share what’s actually helpful and what’s not worth precious space in your suitcase. 

Check out our downloadable, customizable Ultimate Cruise Packing Checklist to see what we really pack after spending more than 60 days at sea! Here's a snippet...

Documents and Essentials

• Passport/ID: Double-check the expiration dates and make sure they’re valid for at least a few months after your trip!
• Cruise Documents: Hotel, flight and cruise confirmations, boarding passes, excursion confirmations, and any other travel documents.
• Credit Cards/Cash: Most ships are cashless, including tips if you’d like, but you’ll need some for off-ship tips and purchases in port.
• Medical Insurance Cards: Bring your insurance details and be familiar with your coverage abroad and/or travel protection plan coverages. 

Gadgets and Gear

• Camera/Smartphone: To capture all those amazing moments.
• Chargers: Don’t forget chargers for your gadgets. A power strip can be handy since outlets in cabins can be limited, but check your cruise line’s rules, some do not allow them. We also recommend bringing a portable phone charger to carry with you on excursions- your phone’s battery will drain faster than at home if it’s searching for a wifi or cell connection. Consider placing your phone in Airplane Mode when out at sea or anywhere you’re not using the ship’s wifi, unless you have an international phone plan in place.
• Headphones: Nothing beats an epic playlist as the soundtrack of your trip.
• E-Reader/Books: Perfect for some quiet time on deck.
• Ziplock Bags: Great for keeping things dry or storing snacks.
• Outdoor Gear: If you’re an avid snorkeler, bring your own mask and snorkel. Binoculars will make sure you don’t miss a single bit of wildlife. The right gear will help you maximize your trip.
• Reusable Water Bottle: Staying hydrated is key and not dumping tons of plastic into the environment is definitely a win!
• Small Backpack/Daypack: For shore excursions and carrying essentials around the ship.

 Toiletries and Personal Care

• Basics: Toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, shampoo, conditioner, face & body wash—pack the essentials. Cruise lines often provide some toiletries, but it’s nice to have your own.
• Sunscreen: Face and body sunscreen is absolutely essential. The sun at sea is fierce.
• Bug Repellent: The wipes are great for traveling! Last thing you want is to be itchy. 
• Medications: Bring any prescriptions, basic OTC meds, and a small first-aid kit. Medications onboard are very limited and expensive! Seasickness remedies can be a lifesaver, even if you think you have an iron stomach. We recommend SeaBands as an effective alternative to Dramamine. 
• Toiletry Bag: We recommend finding one that hangs to stay organized and maximize valuable bathroom space.

 Clothing Essentials

• Casual Daywear: Think layers! T-shirts, tank tops, shorts, sundresses, and lightweight pants are your go-tos in warmer climates. Layers like undershirts, sweaters, leggings, jeans and outerwear for colder. Don’t forget a hat and sunglasses, regardless of temps you’ll likely have sunny days on deck.
• Swimwear: Bring at least two swimsuits to avoid ever having to put on a damp suit (the worst!). We recommend bringing an SPF-rated long sleeve top that can be worn in the water, a sunburn will happen faster than you think and this is great extra protection. A cover-up or sundress is handy for when you’re strolling through indoor areas.
• Evening Attire: Most cruises have a mix of casual and formal nights. For casual evenings, nice jeans or khakis with a polo or blouse, or a casual dress work perfectly. For formal nights, consider a dress, skirt and blouse, or a suit and tie. Some cruises are more relaxed about this, so check the dress code!
• Activewear: If you’re planning to hit the gym or join any active excursions, pack some workout clothes (we recommend quick-dry) and a pair of sneakers.
• Layer Up: Evenings on the water can get breezy and chilly, so bring a light sweater or jacket even if the climate is tropical. A rain jacket that packs down small might also come in handy for the quick showers common in many destinations.

Footwear

• Flip Flops/Sandals: Great for poolside lounging and casual walks. Bring studier ones, you do not want to be the person whose flip stops flopping halfway through your vacation. 
• Sneakers/Hiking Boots: Essential for shore excursions and exploring the ship.
• Dress Shoes: For those formal nights and any fine dining plans.

Final Tips

• Pack Light: Cruise ship cabins can be small, so less is more. Mix and match outfits to maximize space. Blue Duck’s What NOT To Pack list includes suggestions on how to pack smart.
• Check Cruise Line Guidelines: Some items are restricted, like clothes irons and certain foods or beverages. Check with your cruise line for details on what is not allowed onboard. 

Download Blue Duck’s Epic Cruise Pack Checklist for more cruising tips, the ultimate customizable packing checklist, and to dos leading up to your trip. The key is to be comfortable and prepared so you can fully enjoy every moment of your adventure. Bon voyage and happy sailing! 🌊✨

Have questions? Drop us a line at blueducktrips@gmail.com