Cruise Packing List Printable & Tips to Help You Pack

Looking for a cruise packing list printable? Feel free to print as many as you need!

Packing for a cruise is a bit different than packing for other travel. This is why I created this specific cruise packing list covering all the essentials you'll be needing on the ship.

Most people have no idea what to take on cruise ships, other than the clothes they will be wearing and some toiletries. Believe it or not, I use my own list all the time.

I just sailed on the Costa Smeralda ship from Barcelona to Rome and had everything I need because it was written down as I packed.

Being on a cruise without the things you need can put a damper on your vacation. Be prepared and pack all your favorite items in your bag the night before.

First Things First

Where you're going will, of course, have an impact on how you're packing. Choosing clothes for an Alaskan cruise if very different than packing for a Caribbean cruise.

We just took a cruise to Alaska and carried on! I'll be sharing that soon. Make sure you check on the best time to cruise to Alaska before you go.

We all have those items we don't want to be without. Whether it's your favorite sunglasses or that anchor earrings set you bought just for the cruise, it's no fun realizing you left something at home.

Who wants to worry about what you forgot during the entire drive to the airport? Been there, done that!

Now I mark things off my list as they go into my packing cubes and then in my suitcase.

By the way, I found the best packing cubes. My dirty clothes go right back in them and they are machine washable!

Cruise Packing List

I've been rerouted a few times and had my bag arrive at my destination in the middle of the night. It's frustrating when you don't have your toiletries.

Last year my husband and I vacationed in Europe and waited for our bags for three days. Fortunately, we were on a Viking Rhine River Cruise and they laundered our clothes every day. It was a good thing I followed my cruise packing list and brought a day bag!

First, you need to know specifically what you want to pack for a cruise. Gather your clothes and pack them as you decide what to take.

Look at the weather, and then look at it again! Pack a small umbrella just in case. I've never regretted having a compact umbrella stuck in the pocket of my backpack.

Formal Night

There are usually formal nights on the ship. If you want to dress up, I'd suggest bringing a nice pair of slacks and a few matching tops.

Long dresses are usually heavier, and as you probably don't want to wear the same dress to each restaurant, I think pants work better.

As I said, the most important thing to remember is your day bag and to use that cruise packing list. Write on the list. Check the boxes. You'll have peace of mind in knowing what is in your bag. Check those two off and you'll be set!

 Pack a Day Bag

On a cruise, you may not get your luggage until sometime in the evening. You’ll want to have your bathing suit, cover-up, and flip flops in case you decide to spend some time at the pool. Pack a book or iPad for reading while you’re lounging with a cocktail. Ah. Doesn’t that sound lovely?

Always be sure your medications are with you. Finally, you'll want to have your toiletries so you can freshen up before dinner.

Please don't forget your sunscreen! The ship may have what you need in an emergency, but why take chances when you can easily pack what you need in a separate bag?

Shore Excursions

Once you've booked your excursions, you'll have a better idea of what you need. Going to a private beach is a no-brainer as you'll need your bathing suit, cover-up, a hat, and sunscreen.

But going on a 5 mile hike requires different things. I'd pack a small lightweight backpack, good walking shoes, the best socks you have, and a hat.

Decorating Your Cruise Cabin Door

In addition, some cruise lines allow you to decorate your cruise door, so you’ll want to take supplies. You may find decorations in the shop, but why pay more when you can shop ahead of time and get exactly what you want? It’s fun to get creative. Who wants to have the same door as everyone else?

Amazon has some great craft supplies that will make your door the best on your floor, maybe on the entire ship! You can choose from a Cruise Ship Door Cover Party Accessory which will cover your whole door or simply get creative in designing the door decor yourself.

I went on a cruise with a large group and took photos, so it may give you ideas by taking a look at these 10 Ideas for Cruise Door Decorations.

Also, remember your identification should be with you, and not in your luggage. That may sound silly, but I was with a group once where someone had put her purse in her suitcase. Once your bags are checked, it’s not easy to get them before they're taken to your room.

Keep Valuables With You

Your laptop, camera, and other tech or valuables should also be in your day bag. I have never had anything stolen on a cruise, but it's really better to keep your valuables with you. Once you're in your room, you can put them in the safe.

Packing for Kids

If you have children, you will also want to be sure you have everything you need for them. Moms usually get stuck with packing for the younger family members!

Let them pack their own bag if they are old enough, with a little supervision from you, of course.

Getting on the ship with an entire duffle bag of stuffed animals is what I would have ended up with when my kids were young!

Ready to get started? Use the below cruise packing list printable. That's one thing out of the way. Have you chosen your excursions yet? Cruising is so much fun! Enjoy your vacation!

I have packing lists for other vacations, too. Print as many as you need. You may also want to check out these cruise ship games if you’re going with friends or family.

Before planning your next trip, check out this post on how to save money on cruises.

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