The complete cruise packing list
The short answer
Pack documents and medication in your carry-on, about one casual outfit per day, two swimsuits, a cover-up, smart-casual evening clothes plus one dressier outfit, a light jacket, walking shoes and sandals, sunscreen, a non-surge USB charger and a power bank. Leave irons, steamers, surge protectors and candles at home.
Check items off as you pack; your progress is saved in this browser. Want paper? Use the printable version.
Documents and money
0 of 7 packedHealth and medication
0 of 7 packedClothes and shoes
0 of 11 packedGear and gadgets
0 of 8 packedToiletries
0 of 7 packedWhat most people forget
- A light jacket. The air conditioning in the dining rooms and theater surprises everyone.
- A USB charging cube. Older cabins have one or two outlets.
- A day bag for ports. Something that zips.
- A swim cover-up. Most lines don't allow swimwear in indoor restaurants.
- Medication in the carry-on, not the checked bag.
- Small bills for porters on embarkation day.
How much clothing to bring
Less than you think. Ships have laundry services and some have self-service launderettes, and you'll re-wear more than you expect. A popular rule of thumb, the 5-4-3-2-1 rule, works well for a week: five tops, four bottoms, three pairs of shoes, two swimsuits and one hat, plus evening outfits.
| Trip length | Day outfits | Evening outfits | Swimsuits |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3–4 nights | 3 | 2–3 | 1–2 |
| 5 nights | 4 | 3–4 | 2 |
| 7 nights | 5–6 | 5–6 (one dressier) | 2 |
| 10–14 nights | 7, plus laundry | 7, plus laundry | 2–3 |
More on each length: 3–4 day, 5 day, 7 day, 10–14 day.
What to leave at home
Irons and steamers, surge protectors and extension cords with surge protection, candles and incense, and most drinks. Every line publishes a prohibited-items list; the common ones are on what not to pack.
Pack your carry-on first. If everything in it is right, the suitcase can be forgotten and your first day is still fine.
First-timer questions
Questions, answered.
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4 questions on this page