{"id":30349,"date":"2024-03-08T08:30:00","date_gmt":"2024-03-08T08:30:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.adventureinyou.com\/?p=30349"},"modified":"2024-03-15T15:41:31","modified_gmt":"2024-03-15T15:41:31","slug":"cruise-packing-list","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.adventureinyou.com\/gear\/cruise-packing-list\/","title":{"rendered":"The Only Cruise Packing List You’ll Ever Need"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Packing for a cruise can be daunting. Not only do you have to pack for the ship, but for beach days, city strolls, jungle treks, and airports as well. How do you pack for it all without bringing everything you own? <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

This list will make packing for a cruise as easy and stress-free as possible! <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

What to Pack for a Cruise?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

There are three main considerations to think about when packing for a cruise. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The first is the <\/span>destination<\/b>. Are you cruising in a tropical climate? <\/span>Are you planning to go on an Arctic Cruise <\/a>expedition<\/strong> or somewhere warm and tropical? Where you\u2019re going and the weather in that area of the world will greatly influence what you need to pack for your trip. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The second thing to consider is your trip\u2019s <\/span>itinerary<\/b>. Are yo<\/span>u taking an adventure cruise with lots of hikes and water activities? If so, be sure to load up on athletic clothes and reliable shoes. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Alternatively, are you opting for a more relaxing trip full of beaches, tanning, and casual city strolls? Bring on the bathing suits and flowy dresses. Whatever trip you choose, be sure to carefully read through the itinerary to make sure that you\u2019ll be properly prepared for all that the cruise has to offer. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The last thing to take into account when packing is the <\/span>length of your trip<\/b>. Cruises range from three nights to three weeks so be sure you\u2019re properly prepared for the amount of time you\u2019ll be gone. That being said, most cruises have a laundry service available so be sure to look into this at the time of booking.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n

\n
\"Woman<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n

Keeping all of that in mind, here is the ultimate cruise packing list, complete with everything you may need for a fun-filled trip on the wide open ocean.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Choosing Your Travel Ba<\/b>g for Your Cruise<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Choosing the best travel bag is a top priority when it comes to packing for any kind of trip. Not only do you need to fit all of your belongings inside, but you\u2019ll probably be spending a fair amount of time lugging it around, so it\u2019s important to pick one that\u2019s best for you. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When I travel, I prefer a backpack because they\u2019re easy to carry around, no matter the terrain, and often fit everything I need, with the bonus of tons of pockets and hidden compartments for valuables. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Top Backpack and Suitcase Picks<\/strong>
<\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Osprey Fairview<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

This is one of my top choices because it looks like a backpack but packs like a suitcase. It completely unzips and opens up to show you everything inside without having to spend time digging around from the top. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Fairview<\/strong><\/a> comes in different sizes and colors, so you can choose one that fits your needs and personality.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n

View on Amazon<\/a><\/span><\/span><\/div>\n\n\n\n

<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n

View on REI<\/a><\/span><\/span><\/div>
<\/div>\n\n\n\n

Osprey Farpoint 55<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

The Farpoint 55<\/strong><\/a> is another solid backpack option. It\u2019s slightly bigger than the Fairview, and has a detachable daypack on the front. This is super convenient because you\u2019ll need a trusty backpack along the way for day trips off the boat and for stashing anything you\u2019d like to have close at hand.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n

View on Amazon<\/a><\/span><\/span><\/div>\n\n\n\n

<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n

View on REI<\/a><\/span><\/span><\/div>
<\/div>\n\n\n\n

COOLIFE Expandable Suitcase<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

If you don\u2019t love the idea of carrying everything around on your back, you may choose to go the traditional suitcase route.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This is a great suitcase if you’re looking for something with wheels and don’t need too much space. Hard shell suitcases are a good option because it ensures the contents are protected against outside forces.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This suitcase<\/strong><\/a> is also great because it’s expandable, has spinner wheels for easy navigation, and has a laptop pocket and built-in TSA approved lock. You can’t go wrong here!<\/p>\n\n\nView on Amazon<\/a><\/span>\n\n\n\n

Carry-on \/ Daypack<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Besides your main bag, you\u2019re going to want to have a solid carry-on bag<\/a><\/strong> with anything you may need for 24 hours. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Sometimes loading luggage onto a ship can take a while, especially if there are lots of passengers. That\u2019s why it\u2019s important to have a carry-on bag with a change of clothes, any valuables, and whatever else you may need before having access to your main luggage. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

A carry-on can be a smaller suitcase, but I recommend using a day pack as your carry-on to cut down on the amount of luggage you bring and kill two birds with one stone.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Here are some daypacks I really like.
<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Nomatic Travel Pack<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n

\n
\"\"<\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n

If you’re someone who carries a lot of gear (cameras, chargers, iPads), the Nomatic Bag<\/strong><\/a> is for you. Hands down, one of the best bags we’ve ever owned, this day pack makes it so convenient to pack and unpack. With a gazillion different compartments, it makes sure you have a home for everything in your bag, completely saving you from having to rummage through your bag again.<\/p>\n\n\nClick Here to View Bag<\/a><\/span>\n\n\n\n

Zomake Packable Daypack<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

If you prefer to keep your daypack stowed away until you need it, a great option is a collapsible backpack<\/strong><\/a>. This one is lightweight, folds up to be super small and compact, and fits into luggage easily.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When you’re ready to use it, it has plenty of compartments and even side pockets for your water bottle! It’s also water-resistant and comes in tons of different colors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

View on Amazon<\/a><\/span><\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The last bit of advice for general packing is to use packing cubes<\/a><\/strong>! These bad boys are super useful for keeping yourself (and your luggage) organized. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Not only that, but they compress what you pack, making more room for anything else you may need to bring along. Packing cubes completely changed my life and the way I pack. I guarantee they\u2019ll change yours too. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Now that you have your luggage picked out, it\u2019s time to fill it up with everything you may need for a cruise.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n

\n
\"Large<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n

Cruise Clothes Packing List<\/b><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

What clothes you pack seriously depends on your destination. Cruises run all over the world in various climates so it\u2019s necessary to check on the weather where you\u2019re headed so that you can pack accordingly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Most cruises run year-round in warm climates or during warmer months in certain places, so the clothing on this packing list is geared towards warm and sunny destinations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, there are some cruises that take you to colder places like Antarctica, Alaska, and the Arctic. Be sure to pack lots of layers if you\u2019re headed to one of these destinations!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Women\u2019s Clothing<\/b><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Regardless of where you\u2019re going, <\/p>\n\n\ndri-fit clothing<\/strong><\/a>\n\n\n\n

(shirts, shorts, underwear, etc) is especially handy on a cruise because it\u2019s lightweight and dries quickly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dri-fit clothing is perfect for hikes, water activities, or pesky seaspray.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tops and Bottoms<\/b><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

T-Shirts<\/a> and tank tops<\/a><\/b><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

If you\u2019re off on a tropical cruise, you\u2019re going to want to have lightweight, comfortable clothing to wear throughout the trip. Consider choosing materials like linen and chiffon that are breathable and keep you cool.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

On the other hand, if you\u2019re going on an adventure cruise to Antarctica or another cold destination, you\u2019re going to want to have a lot of layers to stay warm. Choose cottons or even dri-fit to layer under your heavier clothes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Long-Sleeve Shirt<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

Regardless of where you\u2019re going, it\u2019s nice to have a long sleeve shirt<\/strong><\/a> to throw on for cooler evenings or air conditioning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Shorts<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

Pack some comfy shorts<\/strong><\/a> for all the warm weather exploring you\u2019re going to do!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Athletic Shorts<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s a good idea to bring along a pair of athletic shorts<\/strong><\/a> for treks and hikes in warm climates. Also, some cruises have a gym on board, so if you plan to workout, come prepared with the necessary clothing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Jeans<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

Jeans<\/strong><\/a> are great for any kind of cruise. Perfect for ounging on the deck in the evenings or a night out on shore, jeans will definitely come in handy along the way.<\/p>\n\n\nLeggings<\/a>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

If you\u2019re like me, leggings<\/strong><\/a> are in your bag no matter where you\u2019re headed. Leggings are especially important to pack if you\u2019re headed to a colder climate because they\u2019re perfect as a base layer under your heavier clothes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Sundress<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

No tropical cruise is complete without a sundress<\/strong><\/a>. Throw this on for meals on board, city tours, or even a day at the beach.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Maxi dress<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

On the last night of many cruises, there\u2019s a special or Captain\u2019s dinner, where guests and crew get dressed up and enjoy one last meal together.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

While you\u2019ll be in casual wear for most of the cruise, it\u2019s recommended to have one nice outfit to wear on special occasions like this<\/strong><\/a>, or on outing out on the town while docked.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Sweatshirt<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

If you\u2019re in a colder climate, a sweatshirt<\/strong><\/a> is a must. But even if you\u2019re cruising in a warmer area of the world, a sweatshirt is good for heavy air conditioning on board or even at the airport before and after your trip.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Sweatshirts also make great makeshift pillows for quick naps along the way. Definitely consider bringing one with you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hippie Pants<\/a> \/ Sweatpants<\/a><\/b><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

Lounge pants are absolutely necessary for a cruise. Whether you\u2019re hanging out on deck, sitting in your cabin, or are running quick errands on the ship, it\u2019s nice to have a pair of comfy pants to throw on.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In warmer climates, I recommend taking a pair of hippie pants<\/strong><\/a> or other flowy pants made of a light material. However if you\u2019re cruising in a colder climate, definitely opt for a pair of trusty sweatpants<\/a><\/strong> to keep you warm and comfortable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Raincoat<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

No matter where you\u2019re going, raincoat<\/strong><\/a> is a must! Be prepared for anything, especially in the unpredictable tropics.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Even if it doesn\u2019t rain, a raincoat makes a nice lightweight jacket or windbreaker when you\u2019re standing in the cool sea breeze.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Undergarments and Beachwear<\/b><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Bathing Suits<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

For most cruises, a bathing suit<\/strong><\/a> is an essential item. Even if you\u2019re not in a beachy destination, many vessels have hot tubs, jacuzzis, or even mini swimming pools on board! Are you a bikini or one piece kind of gal?<\/p>\n\n\nBathing Suit Cover-up<\/a>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

Another good idea is to have something to throw on over your bathing suit. Grab a flowy cover-up<\/strong><\/a> to wear on your way to the beach or to put on when you\u2019ve finished tanning on the sundeck.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Sports Bra<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

If you’ve planning on being active during your cruise, a sports bra<\/strong><\/a> will come in handy during activities like hiking, kayaking, and more!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Underwear<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

Be sure to bring enough underwear<\/strong><\/a> to last the entire trip, especially if there’s no laundry service on your cruise.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Footwear and Accessories <\/b><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Sandals<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

For a warm weather cruise, definitely bring along a pair of sturdy sandals<\/strong><\/a> to wear onboard the ship or on casual day trips. Make sure they\u2019re comfortable to walk in and beach friendly!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

I always bring my <\/p>\n\n\nRainbows<\/strong><\/a>\n\n\n\n

with me no matter where I\u2019m traveling. They\u2019re dependable, super long-lasting, and offer great foot support.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Sneakers<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

If you\u2019re taking a more active cruise where you\u2019re going to be walking a lot, pack a pair of sneakers<\/strong><\/a> so you\u2019re comfortable on your feet for a long period of time. Plus, if you want to hit the onboard gym, you\u2019re going to want to have a pair of shoes for working out!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hiking Boots<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

Depending on the type of cruise you\u2019re taking and your trip\u2019s itinerary, it might be a good idea to bring a pair of hiking boots<\/strong><\/a>. Be sure your feet are properly protected through treks and hikes through unfamiliar territory.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Plus, if you\u2019re in a colder climate, hiking boots tend to be insulated, making sure you\u2019re warm no matter the weather.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Socks<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

If you\u2019re taking a tropical cruise with lots of treks and hiking adventures, pack lightweight, breathable socks<\/a><\/strong> to keep your feet cool.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Alternatively, if you\u2019re taking a cold weather adventure cruise, carefully consider the type of socks you pack. Make sure they\u2019re <\/p>\n\n\nthick and warm<\/strong><\/a>\n\n\n\n

enough to keep your toes cozy no matter how cold it is outside.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Travel Scarf<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

A travel scarf<\/strong><\/a> is a great accessory if you don\u2019t have pockets or want to keep your valuables extra safe. With a hidden pocket, a travel scarf gives you a secure place to store anything you want to keep close to you for easy access. Think passport, cellphone, money, maybe even headphones!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Plus, it\u2019s a great addition to any outfit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Men\u2019s Clothing<\/b><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

As mentioned above, the kind of clothing you should pack greatly depends on the type of cruise you’re taking and the general destination.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Remember to pack lots of comfy clothes to hang out in, outfits to wear while touring cities, and athletic clothes to wear on treks during land excursions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Tops and Bottoms<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Tank Tops<\/a> and T-Shirts<\/a><\/b><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

Stay cool while cruising in a tropical destination by bringing lots of breathable t-shirts<\/strong><\/a> and tank tops<\/strong><\/a>. You\u2019ll be wearing these every day so be sure to pack enough to last your entire trip!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Long-Sleeve Shirt<\/a> \/ Flannel<\/a><\/b><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

Great for cool nights, layering, and keeping warm when there’s air conditioning. Have either a long sleeve shirt<\/strong><\/a> or flannel<\/strong><\/a> to throw on whenever you\u2019re feeling a little bit chilly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Shorts<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

Tropical destinations are warm, so pack shorts<\/strong><\/a> that are comfortable, breathable and look good. There will be photos, after all!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Athletic Shorts<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

Have a pair of comfortable shorts<\/strong><\/a> to wear for activities like hiking or exercising. Who knows, your ship may even have a gym on board.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dress Shirt<\/a> & Nice Pants<\/a><\/b><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

There will be at least one night on your trip where you\u2019ll need to look extra presentable. Be sure to bring along your Sunday\u2019s best for a nice dinner, a night out on the town, or any other fancy occasion that may occur along the way.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Jeans<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

Easy to slip on during one of the cooler nights, jeans<\/a><\/strong> are sure to keep you comfortable throughout your trip.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Raincoat<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

Weather can be unpredictable, especially in the tropics. Be prepared for anything with your raincoat<\/strong><\/a>! This is a must for any kind of cruise.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hoodie<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

Whether you need it for heavy air conditioning, a cooler night, or as a layer on a colder trip, a hoodie<\/a><\/strong> is a must on a cruise. Plus, it makes a good pillow when you need a little extra cushioning!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Undergarments and Beachwear<\/b><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Board Shorts<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

Did someone say beach? Bring along board shorts<\/strong><\/a> or your preferred bathing suit<\/a> <\/strong>so that you can partake in all the water activities. Kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, snorkeling\u2026 you name it!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Underwear<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

Boxers<\/strong><\/a> or briefs<\/strong><\/a>? Whatever your preference, be sure to bring enough for the whole trip!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Footwear and Accessories<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Flip-flops<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

For beach wear, wandering around the ship, or casual strolls, it\u2019s always a good idea to bring along a pair of flip-flops<\/strong><\/a> for easy and comfortable footwear.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Sneakers<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

Definitely pack a pair of reliable closed-toe shoes on any cruise you take. Be sure to bring along sneakers<\/strong><\/a> for longer walks, gym trips, or even for a run along the shore.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hiking Boots<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

If you\u2019re taking a cruise with lots of physical activities like trekking or hiking, you’ll want to pack a pair of sturdy hiking boots<\/strong><\/a>. Bonus points if you break them in before the trip!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Socks<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

If you’re headed to a tropical destination, be sure to bring breathable socks<\/strong><\/a> to avoid having sweaty feet. But if you’re going somewhere cold, opt for thick socks to keep your feet toasty.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Cruise Packing List: Essential Items
<\/b><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Now that you’ve got your clothes for the cruise sorted out, here are some essential items that should be packed into your bag.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Sunscreen<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

Keep yourself protected against harmful UV rays with some strong sunscreen<\/strong><\/a>. A high SPF is recommended, especially because sun reflects off of the water, leading to potential for some nasty burns.<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Sunglasses<\/b><\/p>\n\n\n

\n
\"custom-renegades\"<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n

A good pair of sunglasses is key for any adventure at sea. Go for a pair with polarized lenses to help tone down the glare from the water. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

No matter where we\u2019re going, we always travel with our SunGod sunglasses. They\u2019re fully customizable, reasonably priced, and ship anywhere in the world!<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hat<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

Keep the sun out of your eyes and your head protected! If you’re taking a cold weather cruise, be sure to bring a warm hat<\/strong><\/a> to keep all the body heat in.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Bugspray<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

Many cruises in tropical climates come with a side of pesky mosquitoes. Keep yourself from scratching the entire trip with a few sprays throughout your land excursions. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Water Bottle<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

Cut down on plastic this trip and bring along a reusable water bottle. It’ll make it easy to keep hydrated on the ship and take on treks, to the beach, or on city walks throughout your cruise. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you\u2019d like cold water no matter where you are, go for an <\/span><\/p>\n\n\ninsulated water bottle<\/strong><\/a>\n\n\n\n

. Otherwise, I\u2019d recommend taking along a collapsible water bottle<\/strong><\/a> to save space when not in use.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Toiletries<\/b><\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Some cruises may provide you<\/span> with complimentary toiletries. However, this isn\u2019t the case on all ships so be sure to check your package to see what\u2019s included. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n

At any rate, it\u2019s nice to have your own products with you when far away from home. Here\u2019s a list of toiletries I recommend bringing along with you. <\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n