Cruise Packing List & Tips to Help You Pack

Looking for a cruise packing list? 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 a cruise, other than the clothes they will be wearing and some toiletries. But 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.

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 in my suitcase.

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.

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 and cover-up 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?

Decorating Your 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.

And if you have children, you will also want to be sure you have everything you need for them. 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 printable cruise packing list. 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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