Take or Leave: 6 Cruise Items to Pack and 7 to Skip
Packing for a cruise is different from packing for any other type of vacation. With limited cabin space, strict luggage policies, and unique onboard needs, it’s essential to bring only what you’ll truly use. While some items can enhance your experience, others will waste space, violate cruise line policies, or add unnecessary bulk to your suitcase. Since cabins are compact and storage is limited, strategic packing can make a significant difference in your comfort and convenience.
To help you pack smarter, here are six must-have cruise essentials—and seven things you should leave at home for a stress-free and enjoyable voyage.
Items to Pack: 1. Power Strip (Cruise-Approved)
Most cruise cabins have very few electrical outlets, which can be frustrating when you need to charge multiple devices at once. With today’s reliance on smartphones, tablets, e-readers, cameras, and smartwatches, a single outlet may not be enough. A cruise-approved power strip (without surge protection) allows you to maximize your charging options without violating ship policies. However, it’s important to note that power strips with surge protectors are strictly prohibited on most cruise lines due to fire hazards.
Pro Tip: Instead of a traditional power strip, bring a USB charging hub or a power cube with multiple ports to safely charge all your electronics. Some cruise lines offer rental power strips, but it’s best to have your own to ensure availability.
2. Motion Sickness Remedies
Even if you don’t typically experience motion sickness, it can still strike unexpectedly while on a cruise, especially in rougher seas. Once nausea sets in, it can ruin an entire day of your vacation, leaving you feeling miserable instead of enjoying the ship’s amenities. Packing seasickness wristbands, Dramamine, ginger chews, or anti-nausea patches can help prevent or quickly relieve discomfort. Since ship stores often charge premium prices for these items, it’s best to bring them from home.
Pro Tip: If you’re prone to motion sickness, book a cabin in the middle of the ship on a lower deck, as this area experiences the least movement. Fresh air and looking at the horizon can also help reduce symptoms.
3. Refillable Water Bottle
While cruise ships provide drinking water, it often comes in small cups or requires frequent trips to the buffet or café for refills. Bringing a durable, reusable water bottle ensures you stay hydrated throughout the day, whether you’re lounging by the pool, exploring ports, or heading to the gym. Since many cruise lines have banned bringing large packs of bottled water, a refillable bottle is the best alternative.
Pro Tip: Choose an insulated stainless-steel bottle to keep drinks cold for hours in warm climates. Just remember to fill your bottle only at designated water stations, as cruise lines typically prohibit refilling directly from cabin sinks.
4. Magnetic Hooks for Extra Storage
Cruise cabins are notorious for limited storage space, making organization key to keeping your room clutter-free. Since most cruise cabin walls are metal, magnetic hooks can be used to hang up jackets, lanyards, purses, hats, or wet swimsuits to dry. They help you keep frequently used items within easy reach and free up drawer space for other belongings.
Pro Tip: Bring heavy-duty magnetic hooks that can hold at least 10-20 lbs for added durability. You can also use them to hang decorations for a special occasion or clip important cruise documents to the wall for easy access.
5. A Waterproof Phone Case
A cruise vacation often includes poolside relaxation, water excursions, and beach days, which all put your phone at risk of water damage. A waterproof phone pouch or case can protect your device while still allowing full touchscreen functionality, so you can snap photos, check ship schedules, or use navigation apps without worry. It also provides protection against sand and accidental splashes, which are common during excursions.
Pro Tip: Look for a floating waterproof phone case in case you accidentally drop it in the water. Many waterproof cases also include a lanyard so you can wear it around your neck for convenience.
6. A Foldable Tote Bag
A lightweight, collapsible tote bag is one of the most versatile things you can bring on a cruise. It can be used for shore excursions, carrying beach essentials, shopping for souvenirs, or transporting extra items around the ship. Since many cruise lines charge for plastic bags at onboard shops, a reusable tote is also great for carrying purchases.
Pro Tip: Choose a water-resistant tote to protect your belongings from sudden rain showers, splashes, or spilled drinks. A foldable design allows you to easily store it in your suitcase when not in use.
Items to Skip on a Cruise: 1. Hair Dryer
While it may be tempting to bring your own high-powered hair dryer, it’s completely unnecessary on a cruise. Most cruise cabins come equipped with a standard hair dryer, which is sufficient for basic styling needs like drying and light touch-ups. Additionally, many cruise lines ban personal high-wattage appliances, including hair dryers, because they pose a fire hazard in the confined space of a ship. Even if you manage to bring one onboard, it may trip the ship’s electrical system, leading to inconveniences or confiscation by security. If you’re worried about styling, consider heat-free methods or quick-dry hair towels to cut down on styling time.
Better Alternative: Use the provided cabin hair dryer or embrace a low-maintenance hairstyle by using anti-frizz serums, leave-in conditioners, or air-drying techniques for a more relaxed vacation look.
2. Towels
Packing your own towels might seem like a good idea, but it’s ultimately a waste of valuable luggage space. Cruise ships provide plush, high-quality towels for both onboard use and shore excursions, ensuring you never go without one. Many travelers bring beach towels, not realizing that cruise lines already offer free towel service at pools and beaches, though some may charge a fee for unreturned towels. Carrying extra towels adds unnecessary bulk to your luggage, and wet towels take up even more space on your return trip. Instead, save room for essentials by using what the cruise provides.
Better Alternative: Use the complimentary towels provided by the cruise and return them after use to avoid extra fees or charges. If you prefer a larger beach towel, check if the cruise line offers rental or purchase options, or bring a lightweight, quick-dry travel towel that takes up minimal space.
3. Excessive Shoes
Shoes can quickly take up space in your luggage, leaving less room for clothing and other essentials. While it’s tempting to pack multiple pairs for every outfit, most cruisers only wear three pairs during their entire trip. Overpacking shoes can also increase the weight of your luggage, making it harder to maneuver through airports and cruise terminals. Since cruise ships have casual atmospheres during the day and limited occasions for formalwear, packing smart will help maximize space and convenience. Instead of bringing bulky or unnecessary footwear, focus on versatile options that can be used for multiple activities.
Better Alternative: Stick to three essential pairs—casual sandals or flip-flops for lounging by the pool, comfortable walking shoes for excursions, and dress shoes for formal dinners or upscale restaurants. If you need additional support, opt for water-resistant walking sandals that work for both casual strolls and beach outings.
4. Large or Hard-Sided Luggage
Cruise cabins are notoriously small, and bringing oversized suitcases can create a major space issue. Many hard-sided suitcases do not fit under the bed, leaving you with less room to move around. Since most cruises don’t require formal attire daily, packing in a large suitcase is usually unnecessary. Additionally, larger luggage pieces are harder to store, making your cabin feel cluttered and disorganized. Travelers who pack too much often struggle with repacking at the end of the trip, leading to last-minute stress before disembarkation.
Better Alternative: Choose soft-sided, collapsible luggage that can be easily stored under the bed or inside closets after unpacking. If you need extra room for souvenirs, pack a foldable duffel bag that can be expanded later for your return trip.
5. Expensive Jewelry or Valuables
While cruises are generally safe, bringing expensive jewelry, designer watches, or luxury accessories can be risky. Wearing flashy valuables can attract unwanted attention, especially in port cities where pickpocketing can be an issue. If you leave valuables in your cabin, there’s still a chance they could be misplaced, forgotten, or stolen. Additionally, water activities, excursions, and active adventures increase the likelihood of losing expensive items. Unless you’re attending a formal gala or special event, high-value items are more trouble than they’re worth.
Better Alternative: Bring minimal jewelry and opt for budget-friendly or costume accessories that complement your outfits without worrying about loss or theft. If you do bring valuables, use the in-room safe and avoid wearing them in crowded or unfamiliar locations.
6. An Iron or Clothes Steamer
Clothing irons and steamers are strictly prohibited on all cruise ships, as they pose a serious fire hazard. Most cabins do not have outlets designed for high-wattage appliances, and any unauthorized devices may be confiscated at embarkation. Even if you’re concerned about wrinkled clothing, there are better, cruise-approved solutions to keep your outfits looking fresh. Many cruise lines offer laundry and pressing services, so you won’t have to worry about ironing your clothes yourself. Trying to sneak an iron onboard will only lead to frustration, as security screenings are thoroughly enforced.
Better Alternative: Use the ship’s professional laundry services or pack a wrinkle-release spray to refresh clothing quickly. Hanging garments in the bathroom while showering allows steam to naturally relax wrinkles, keeping outfits crisp and presentable without the need for an iron.
7. Over-the-Door Organizers
Over-the-door organizers are popular for hotel stays, but they’re often banned on cruise ships due to their potential to damage doors and block emergency exits. Many cabins have limited space, so passengers try to maximize storage by hanging organizers on bathroom doors or closets. However, these organizers can scratch surfaces, obstruct emergency pathways, and violate ship policies. Additionally, since cruise cabins have strict fire safety standards, anything that could pose a hazard or interfere with quick evacuation routes is discouraged.
Better Alternative: Instead of over-the-door organizers, use magnetic hooks, drawer organizers, or packing cubes to keep your cabin tidy and organized. Magnetic hooks can stick to the metal cabin walls, making them an ideal alternative for hanging hats, lanyards, or lightweight bags. If extra storage is needed, consider under-bed storage bags to keep items out of the way without breaking any rules.
The content in this article has been generated with the assistance of AI.
