Ahoy, matey! Nothing is more relaxing than a vacation along the water, but packing for a cruise can be quite stressful, especially if it’s your first time aboard.
Whether you’re searching for the perfect beach bag or SPF balm, we’ve got all the travel essentials to pack for a cruise to ensure it’ll be smooth sailing. We also spoke to experts to provide tips on the vital items to pack to make your next cruise one to remember.
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What to put on your cruise packing list, according to experts
Preparing for a cruise may seem like a daunting task initially, but knowing which items to bring is half the battle.
“Packing for a cruise is much like packing for any trip, but I do advise guests to make a checklist when they pack, so they are sure to bring everything they want with them,” says senior cruise director for Carnival Cruises, John Heald. “The vast majority of our itineraries are warm weather destinations, so swimwear is always on the top of the list, and then a pool cover up and non-slip shoes because you can’t walk around the ship barefoot and in your swimsuit.”
“Consider bringing an external battery for your phone," suggests Princess Cruises Celebrations Ambassador Jill Whelan. "Having extra battery life is vital, and even if you don't ever use it, the peace of mind is everything.”
Whelan also recommends bringing a fanny pack with you. “It's so much easier to sightsee having two hands free and without the bother of hanging onto a purse. If it's strapped on, you won't leave it somewhere either!”
Avid cruise goer Renae Krawczyk also suggests bringing a clever travel hack to keep her family's cabin tidy: a pop-up laundry basket as “they fit right inside the closets and help keep the room clean and organized. “
Ultimately, though, less is more when it comes to packing for a cruise. “Try to pack as minimal as possible while bringing the essential items. You will not wear the 10 outfits you packed for an eight-day cruise! After looking back on our first cruise and the amount of stuff, just everywhere was overwhelming,” recommends Krawczyk. “[Thinking] back on what we brought on our most recent cruise, everything had a purpose and was used! With the amount of unused stuff from our first cruise, I could have filled an entire checked luggage.”
Advice for first-time cruise goers
More than anything, it’s imperative to familiarize yourself with your new environment and not be afraid to ask questions.
“I always advise first-time cruisers — or even veteran cruisers who are sailing a new ship — to spend some time after embarkation to explore and get familiar with the vessel. And don’t be shy about asking questions to the crew! They are used to guests asking for advice and assistance and are happy to help. The crew is going on vacation with you and are part of the experience,” says Heald.
“My advice here, would be even if you are afraid of getting motion sickness or seasick, go, take the trip, take the chance! You can come prepared with patches, sea bands or other items that are out there, but take the leap!” suggests Krawczyk.
Products to shop for a cruise
Aquaphor Lip Protectant with SPF 30
- Relieves dry, cracked lips
- Comes in a pack of 2
- Unscented
Good for: Sensitive skin | Finish type: Glossy
Keep your lips hydrated with this dermatologist-recommended lip protectant with SPF. A recent Shop TODAY Beauty Awards Winner for best lip balm with SPF, this Aquaphor product is formulated with a combination of vitamins, moisturizers, shea butter and jojoba oil. This lip repair stick is designed to relieve dryness and soothe chapped, cracked lips so you’ll be ready to smooch your sweetheart all vacation long.
Handy Laundry Mesh Popup Hamper
- Includes side pocket
- Folds up tightly
- Holds weeks worth of clothes
Colorways: 8 | Material: Mesh | Product dimensions: 14"L x 13"W x 24"H
If you’re looking to wash your clothes during the cruise, you’ll surely want to pack this mesh popup hamper that currently has over 41,000 verified five-star ratings on Amazon to back it up. As it folds easily, it is the ultimate laundry hamper to store in your suitcase. This resourceful hamper includes super sturdy handles to make it easier to carry down the halls of the ship.
Sea-Band Anti-Nausea Acupressure Wristband
- Relieves nausea
- Targets pressure points
Reusable? Yes | Suitable for: Ages 3+
Avoid getting seasick on choppy seas with these acupressure bracelets. Each elastic band has a plastic knob sewn inside which stimulates the P6 acupressure point to relieve nausea and motion sickness. With these bracelets, you’ll be able to enjoy every minute of your cruise without getting sick.
Hiearcool Waterproof Phone Pouch
- Touch screen pouch
- Pack of two
- Snug for bigger phones
Compatible with: iPhones 13-16 | Key features: Waterproof protection, responsive touch screen and adjustable lanyard
If you have excursions booked to explore waterfalls or go jetskiing, these waterproof phone pouches will keep your phones dry, allowing you to still take pictures and videos of your adventures without ruining your phone.
Organic Aloe Vera Gel
- Soothes sunburns
- Absorbs quickly
- Spray feature can be finicky
Active ingredients: Vitamin C
Don’t “burn out the day” with this bestselling after-sun skin care. This organic aloe vera gel is designed to soothe your sunburn and leave your skin feeling soft and healthy, according to the brand. Plus, with its 100% natural thickener Agar, this gel absorbs rapidly with no residue, so you’ll be ready to hit the lido deck.
“I love this product and it actually has aloe in it. Perfect for my son’s super sensitive skin! And doesn’t leave a weird sticky feeling after applying. Very soothing and works great on sunburns. Highly recommend. Never going back to the old stuff we used to buy,” said one verified five-star reviewer.
Anker Portable Charger 10000mAh Battery Pack
- Compact and lightweight
- Provides up to two charges
- USB/USB-C ports
Battery capacity: 10,000 mAh | Connector type: Micro USB
Stay connected while traveling the high seas with this portable power bank with 74,000+ verified five-star Amazon ratings. This scratch-resistant charger includes two input ports and is compatible with iPhone, Samsung Galaxy and more.
Epicka Universal Travel Adapter
- Works for 200 countries
- Multiple power ports
- USB-A/USB-C/AC socket
Input voltage: 240 volts | Compatible with: USB-charged devices
Whether you’re traveling along the Mediterranean Sea or the Atlantic Ocean, this international travel accessory is a must! This all-in-one adapter includes four different plugs that can be used in over 150 countries.
Owala FreeSip Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottle
- Keeps liquid cold for hours
- Easy flip lid
- Tricky to clean small spaces
Colorways: 21 | Size: 24 ounces
Stay hydrated with this stainless-steel water bottle from Owala is an editor favorite. This bestselling thirst quencher features a protective push-to-open lid and double-wall insulation to keep drinks cold for up to 24 hours.
Stow-N-Go Luggage and Travel Organizer
- Collaspible
- Pocket for dirty clothes/shoes
- Fits in 20" suitcase
Colorways: 6 | Dimensions: 12”L x 12”W x 1”H | Closure: Zipper
Who wants to spend a minute unpacking when the ocean is outside your window? Maximize your vacation time with family with this luggage organizer where you can just hang your already pressed, folded clothes in the closet. This polyester organizer fits easily inside your suitcase and will stay in place during a long flight.
Coola Organic Scalp Spray & Hair Sunscreen Mist with SPF 30
- Protects scalp
- Protects hair color fading
- Some say leaves residue
Good for: All hair types | Color-safe? Yes
While it's a no-brainer to bring sunscreen, you might want to think about bringing an option to help protect your scalp, since that is prone to burns, too. This spritz from Coola offers 30 SPF protection and can even protect color-treated hair from sun fading.
Amika Perk Up Dry Shampoo
- Absorbs oil and sweat
- Adds volume
- Talc-free
Good for: All hair types | Hair concern targets: Oiliness, volume | Color-safe? Yes
We know you’ll be busy having lots of fun onboard, but don’t forget about your hair! This “perk up” product was Shop TODAY’s Beauty Awards winner for best overall dry shampoo. This talc-free spray is designed to absorb excess oil, buildup and odor, as well as add volume and nourishment to your scalp.
Papier Wonder Travel Journal
- Personalization available
- Hard cover
Colorways: 5
This chic travel journal will help you recall all the wonderful memories from your cruise many years from now. The hardcover notebook includes 96 double-sided pieces of paper and is separated into six journeys to help stay organized. It also includes travel games to keep you busy while on the plane or relaxing in a lounge chair.
Away The Packable Sling Bag
- Packs into compact zip
- Lightweight design
- Water-resistant
Colorways: 5 | Dimensions: 12.6” L x 5.9” W x 2.4” H | Material: Recycled nylon
Keep your hands free with this packable sling bag from Away Travel. This lightweight, water-resistance bag is designed to hold all the essentials including your wallet, sunglasses and more. Whether you’re searching for added storage in your suitcase or wearing it around your waist while sightseeing, this bag will certainly come in handy.
La Roche-Posay Anthelios Melt-In Milk Body and Face Sunscreen SPF 60
- Suitable for sensitive skin
- Fragrance-free
Good for: All skin types | SPF: 60 | Fragrance-free? Yes
Reduce your risk of sun damage with the La Roche-Posay sunscreen that was rated Shop TODAY Beauty Awards winner for best sunscreen for face and body. This sensitive skin-friendly option allows you to relax more and worry less about getting a sunburn.
“I have been using this sunscreen for over a year. It has truly been a life saver! I have a sun allergy therefore going outside can be very painful. I use this sunscreen on my arms and face, it limits the exposure to UVA and UVB rays. I highly recommend it!” said one verified reviewer.
Revlon One-Step Volumizer 2.0
- Fast drying
- Good for all hair types
- Dries hair quickly
- Some say it's loud
Heat settings: 4 | Good for: All hair types
Give your long locks a little extra love while on vacation with this Revlon volumizer. Rated Shop TODAY Beauty Awards winner for best blow dry brush, this 1100-watt styling brush helps reduce and protect hair against heat damage. This hairdryer/brush also features a detachable design for easy storage.
“My hair is wavy and frizzy. I used to always struggle styling it. It’s a whole process to dry my hair and have it styled without spending an hour or more. This literally did it all in 12 mins! My hair is thick too. I ran to my computer to write a review because this product is life changing. I feel reborn. I will never have a bad hair day ever again,” said one satisfied customer.
Dagne Dover Hunter Toiletry Bag
- Options for large or small
- Water-resistant fabric
Colorways: 9 | Dimensions: 7.5" L x 4.5" W x 4" H | Material: Recycled polyester
You’ll want to look and feel your very best this vacation, so it’s important to pack a makeup bag that will fit all your favorite products. This water-resistant neoprene toiletry pouch from Dagne Dover features a removable air mesh zip-top pouch and Repreve recycled dust bag.
“Great size — fit all my toiletries easily. I appreciate the many pouches and pockets to keep things organized,” said one satisfied jetsetter.
Weezie Beach Towel
- Oversized
- Very soft
- Avoid fabric softner, per brand
Colorways: 4 | Dimensions: 38" W x 70" L
Show the sand who's boss with this luxuriously soft beach towel that will be the envy of cruise passengers everywhere. Made in Portugal, this 100% organic long-staple cotton towel is hypoallergenic and includes the option to personalize with embroidery.
Quince Expandable Carry-On Hard Shell Suitcase
- 360 spinner
- Expandable
- Hard-shell, may scuff
Colorways: 4 | Size: 21"
Strolling through the airport or halls of the ship just got easier. This lightweight carry-on suitcase features an interior compression system to help maximize space and a removable laundry bag to store all your wet towels and dirty clothing.
"I needed a light expandable carryon suitcase and my research landed on Quince. I am very pleased with the styling, durability, wheels and inside components. I plan to purchase a second for my husband after my trip," said one verified five-star reviewer on the brand's website.
What to wear on a cruise
“What I like about cruises is the opportunity to dress up and show out, as well as keep it pool chic or casual,” says fashion stylist Karen Blanchard. “I recommend packing a mix of both casual and dressier looks. But here’s the key — pack things that can double as both to help save space. For example, a black jumpsuit can look casual with some trendy platform sandals or you can really elevate the look with heels and a statement bag.”
How does one avoid overpacking? “Something I’m really liking this summer is the “balance it out” trend," Blanchard says. "It’s unique in that you can bring two unlikely styles together to avoid overpacking. For example, I recommend choosing cover-ups that can be repurposed for dinner dresses."
Crochet Bathing Suit Cover Up
- Flowy design
- Comfortable material
- May be short on some
Colorways: 6 | Sizes: S-XL | Material: Polyester
All eyes will be on you this vacation with this adorable crochet cover up to wear over your bathing suit. The darling dress features a loose fit and has a five-star rating based on over 16,000 verified Amazon reviews.
“This cover up was exactly what I was expecting can’t wait to wear it on my cruise,” raved one five-star Amazon reviewer.
Lanzom Wide Brim Straw Hat
- Many colors
- Holds shape
- Some say runs large
Live the life of luxury with this darling straw fedora with 26,000+ verified five-star ratings. Made with 90% natural paper straw, one Shop TODAY writer who tried this UPF50+ option out mentions it packing extremely well. "I can pretty much fold this hat in half, throw it in my luggage and rest assured I'm not doing irreversible damage and rendering it unwearable by the time I arrive at my destination."
The Hepburn Sunglasses
- Polarized lenses
- Cat-eye design
- Use a case, may scratch
Colorways: 3 | Good for: Heart and oval face shapes
These shades will look puurfect on you! Keep the sun out of your eyes (and whiskers) with these fashion-forward cat eye sunglasses from Prive Revaux. These stylish sunnies feature polarized lenses that filter unwanted light and reduces glare with scratch-resistant coating.
Hilor Crossover One-Piece Swimsuit
- Fully-lined
- Tummy-control design
- Hand wash only
Colorways: 50 | Sizes: 4-18 | Material: Nylon, spandex
Channel your inner swimsuit model when you hit the water in this stunning crossover suit, which was recently rated Shop TODAY’s Travel Gear Award winner for best one-piece. This super cute swimsuit features soft, wire-free removable bra cups, tummy control mesh panel and a stretched striped bands around the waist to create a more slimming look.
“I bought several of these suits to wear in Mexico. They are very stylish, I wore this with a crochet coverup skirt and a hat and I looked high end on a small budget. They fit well and have good stretch to them. I will have to buy in every color,” said one five-star reviewer.
Women's V-Neck Spaghetti Strap Dress
- Adjustable tie back
- Some say fabric is thin
Colorways: 27 | Sizes: XS-XXL | Material: Polyester, spandex
Whether you’re headed to a five-course dinner or a night of dancing, this spaghetti strap dress will have you stealing the show. This darling dress is made of polyester & spandex and features an A-line style with pleated design.
"[I] bought this dress to use on a tropical vacation over the winter. Was the perfect dress for a night out — not too dressy, not too casual. Love it!” said one verified buyer.
Birkenstock Eva Arizona Birkenstock Sandals
- More affordable option
- Adjustable
- Make a "suctioning sound"
Colorways: 6 | Sizes: 4-10
These waterproof sandals have the classic Birkenstock style to stay trendy on the beach, so you can wear them from the pool to lunch.
Reef Cushion Vista Higher
- Great for arch support
- 2.5-inch platform
Colorways: 7 | Sizes: 5-11
These chunky, vegan-leather platform sandals are not only comfortable, but they'll also give you a little added height as well (given the 2.5-inch heel). You'll look and feel your best in these versatile shoes that offer both arch support and rebound support, according to the brand.
Wicker & Leather Crossbody Bag with Bamboo Handles
- Expands upon open
- Interior pocket
- Wipe clean with dry cloth
Colorways: 2 | Closure: Twist lock
Most cruisers know to pack more formal attire for a fancy night on the ship, and this Mark & Graham wicker & leather crossbody bag is the ideal accessory to accompany any style dress. This bamboo-handled purse is handmade by artists in the Philippines and features soft linen cotton blend lining and twist lock closure for safer storage. Add your initials so there’s no way this bag will end up in the lost and found.
How we chose
These packing recommendations for a cruise were based on expert insights, user reviews and editor research. We selected items based on practicality, style and affordability, with first-time cruise goers in mind. We also included various Shop TODAY Awards winners.
Meet the experts
- John Heald is a senior cruise director who started with Carnival Cruise Line in 1987 as a bar waiter and has been with the company almost 36 years.
- Jill Whelan is the celebrations ambassador for Princess Cruises. Fun fact: Whelan also played Vicki Stubing, the daughter of Captain Stubing on “The Love Boat.”
- Renae Krawczyk is an avid cruise goer who has been on seven cruises with three different cruise lines.
- Karen Blanchard is a fashion stylist and blogger based in New York City.
