Knowing what to pack for a 7 day cruise can be overwhelming, especially for first time cruisers. A 7 day Caribbean cruise packing list makes it much easier.
With a cruise packing list, you will know how to pack for a 7 day cruise so so you don’t forget the important things. Instead, you can focus on all the fun you’ll have whether traveling to the western Caribbean, the eastern Caribbean or even Bermuda!
With a complete cruise packing list, you can check off each item as you pack it. Then, you’ll know you’ve packed everything you need to enjoy your cruise.
• Updated December, 2019 •
Since most U.S. based first time cruisers take a cruise to the Caribbean or Bahamas, this post focuses on those destinations. Read on to learn:
- How to pack for a 7 day cruise,
- What to pack for a Bahamas cruise,
- What to pack for a Disney cruise,
- What to pack for a Carnival cruise,
- What to pack for a Royal Caribbean cruise.
This post also includes answers to questions like:
- Can you take snacks on a Carnival cruise? (Yes, with limitations)
- Can you take a CPAP machine on a cruise? (Yes… we’ll tell you how below)
- Can you take an iron on a cruise? (No… and please don’t try to sneak one on, either. It’s a serious safety issue!)
- Can you take sports equipment on a cruise ship? (Yes… but there are regulations for when to use the equipment)
Let’s get to those cruise packing tips and hacks you need to cruise like a pro, whether you’re cruising on a budget or you’re in a luxury suite.
Cruise wardrobe essentials: What clothes should you wear on a cruise?
Twenty years ago, cruising was a luxury. People dressed up for dinner just about every night and it was hard to pack light. Today’s travelers prefer a resort casual vibe and less luggage (thanks airline restrictions), but most cruise lines still offer a formal night, theme nights and the like. Knowing how to pack for a 7 day cruise can save you money on airline luggage costs and make sure you also have everything you need for a great vacation!
When you use our 7 day Caribbean cruise packing list, you can fit everything you need for a week-long cruise in one suitcase!
Need luggage? This one is fabulous!!!
Here’s a general list of what to pack for a 7 day cruise:
- Daytime: Swimsuit, cover-up, 4-5 pairs of shorts, 5-6 shirts, and wardrobe essentials.
- Evening: Dress-casual slacks and collared shirts for men, and slacks/skirts with tops for women or dresses.
- Formal and themed nights: Suit and tie for men, dressy dress for women, and theme night clothes per cruise line suggestion.
- Bathroom supplies.
- Cruise essentials to make the most of your cruise experience (Shop cruise essentials here!)
For those, like me, who prefer more details, read on.
How to pack for a cruise: Women’s cruise packing tips
When you think about how to pack for a 7 day cruise, it can be hard to figure out how everything will fit. Use these cruise packing tips to make it easier:
- Choose one color palette and build around that. I love navy — and use it for a base when I cruise. My pants, shorts, dresses and accent pieces all coordinate around that one color.
- Pack a few pieces of jewelry to mix and match throughout the cruise.
- Add layers — you’ll want a sweater or wrap for breezy late nights on the top deck or for air conditioned shows in the theater.
- Bring gym clothes if you plan to climb the rock wall or work out.
- Consider two swimsuits when you pack for a 7 day cruise because it can take a while for one to dry.
- Pack one pair of dress shoes, a pair of daytime shoes, and gym shoes if needed.
How to pack for a cruise: Men’s cruise packing list
We use a great strategy to pack light for the guys, even when we pack for a 7 day cruise! Wear a casual shirt to dinner (except on formal nights), then wear that shirt another day later in the trip for a shore excursion, so the shirt is used two days not one. That way you avoid over packing for your cruise vacation.
For formal and semi-formal nights, my husband wears the same suit. On formal night, he wears the tie and jacket. On semi-formal night, he either goes with a fun tie (or no tie) and skips the jacket. Pack two swimsuits, five casual daytime outfits, essentials and accessories.
How to pack for a cruise: Cruise packing list for kids
If you really want to enjoy your kids, let them be kids! Pack nice outfits for formal night, but something they can be comfortable in. Pack five or six outfits (a couple extra for babies), two swimsuits, a jacket, sweater or hoodie, and comfortable shoes!
I recommend comfortable sandals with a heal strap like these so they don’t slip and fall!
What else to include on your 7 day Caribbean cruise packing list
Cruises are almost all-inclusive, so you don’t need to bring a whole lot of extras. When you’re thinking about what things to pack for a cruise, pack the things you really need and leave the rest behind.
We bring sun essentials, like a beach bag, sunscreen and sunglasses. We also bring our cell phones and chargers, though we try to leave the computers at home! Books or Kindles are great to relax on sea days.
It’s also important to bring all required cruise documents: boarding passes, reservation confirmations (including any shore excursions booked before the cruise), required identification (a passport is best) and cash/credit cards. That’s about it!
But it’s easier when you use a printable cruise packing checklist to keep track of everything!
Download ours. It’s FREE!
What can you not bring on a cruise?
When working on your cruise planning checklist, it’s almost as important to know what not to pack for a cruise! If you pack something that is not allowed, it will be confiscated at the luggage screening.
On all cruise lines, weapons, illegal drugs, flammable liquids, irons, candles, and most small electrical appliances are banned. Curling irons and flat irons are allowed for hair, but I mostly go with a pony tail!
Because cruise line policies change, it’s best to check what’s allowed before you go. Here’s a link to the four major family cruise lines’ lists of prohibited items:
- Carnival Cruise Lines Prohibited Items List
- Disney Cruise Lines Prohibited Items List
- Norwegian Cruise Lines Prohibited Items List
- Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines Prohibited Items List
Cruise FAQ
I’ve been asked many questions about cruising through the years. Here’s a Cruise FAQ, which might be especially helpful for first time cruisers who want to know what to pack for a 7 day cruise or for a cruise to the Bahamas!
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- Can you take prescription drugs on a cruise? Yes! Prescription medications are allowed on a cruise. I recommend that you bring all medications in their original packaging. That way, if you get sick or injured, the ship’s doctor has easy access to your medical information.
- Can you bring an iron on a cruise? No! Irons are strictly forbidden because they pose a fire hazard. Instead, pack a couple of small bottles of Downy Wrinkle Releaser: Spray clothes, hang them in the bathroom while you shower, and they’ll look great!
- Can you bring weed on a cruise? No! While marijuana is legal in some states, it is not legal on a cruise ship. Instead, mellow out in a lounge chair on the pool deck!
- Can you bring alcohol on a cruise? Probably. Most cruise lines allow you to bring one or two bottles of wine on board, but the uncorking fee is pretty hefty! Check with your specific cruise line to make sure you know what’s allowed (see below for a link to the most popular family cruise lines)
- Can I bring my sports equipment? Yes and No. On the ship, all sports equipment is provided. You cannot use your own, and that includes pool noodles. But, if you plan a shore excursion, you can take your own equipment if it’s not provided. If you’re planning on a relaxed beach day shore excursion, I found these great inflatable pool noodles. They pack flat and are great for floating on those Caribbean blue seas!
- Can I take snacks on a Carnival cruise? Yes and No. Prepackaged snacks are allowed on cruise ships, but homemade foods, beverages, fresh fruits and vegetables and fish are not allowed on board. That includes shore excursions. If you buy fresh fruit or a beverage on a shore excursion, finish it before returning to the ship. It will not be allowed on board. If you take a deep sea fishing excursion, you must arrange to have your fish shipped home. It cannot be brought on board either.
- Can I take my CPAP machine on a cruise? Yes. Your CPAP machine should be carried in your carry on luggage. If you bring your own distilled water, it also needs to be hand carried on board. It might be easier to pre-arrange the purchase of distilled water through the cruise line.
- Do I need to pack beach towels? No. The cruise line provides beach towels for use on board and for shore excursions. Cruise staff usually passes towels out as you leave the ship and has bins available to drop them off when you return. NOTE: If you sign out a towel and don’t check it in on return, you might be charged the cost of the towel.
- Do I need a passport for a cruise? Yes and No. If you are an American cruising from a US port and returning to the same port, you don’t technically need a passport. However, since most cruises visit foreign countries, it’s best to have a passport in case you should become sick or injured. The $145 investment is worth the peace of mind having a valid passport provides.
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What are the rules for cruise luggage?
Most cruise lines don’t have a set limit on luggage, but when you’re trying to figure out how to pack for a cruise to the Bahamas or things to take on a Caribbean cruise, remember that less is more! You can only store two or three bags under your bed, so space is tight.
My favorite cruise luggage is the Chester Travels bag — great name, eh? It’s awesome for so many reasons:
- It’s easy to pack with two compartments that zip closed. The space between holds a couple dresses or blouses without slipping so they don’t wrinkle.
- The luggage has sturdy wheels and a telescoping handle so it’s easy to carry.
- The luggage LOCKS so when I set it outside my cabin before going home, I know my contents are secure.
⇒ Purchase Chester Travels Luggage Here ⇐
The key to a great cruise is to make sure your cruise luggage tags are securely fastened to the handle of your luggage. That’s the only way the cruise staff knows where to deliver your luggage. Before your cruise, you’ll print out your luggage tags. You can tape them to your luggage, but I find cruise luggage tag holders to work better.
- Cruise luggage tag holders for Disney, Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruise Line
- Cruise luggage tag holders for Carnival and Norwegian Cruise Line
What to pack in a carry on bag for a cruise?
You’ll want to carry some items with you when you check in for your cruise. First time cruisers tend to carry more than more experienced cruisers — I know I sure carried too much the day we boarded! This list includes everything that should be in your carry on bag for a cruise:
- ALL cruise boarding documents (boarding passes, photo ID, passport, and anything else the cruise line requires). When I say what the cruise line requires, I mean requires! If you don’t have the required documents, you can’t cruise!
- ALL medications. If checked luggage gets lost or delayed, you can’t easily replace prescriptions.
- Swimsuits. HINT: Have boys wear their swim trunks as shorts! If girls have 2-piece suits or tankinis, they can wear theirs under clothes, too. Simple cruise packing hacks make life so much easier, don’t you agree?
- A bottle of sunscreen.
- Sunglasses.
- All valuable electronics. If you must bring a computer, carry it with you. Cruise lines have computers available on-board, so consider using those instead. It’s a whole lot easier!
- Camera. Make sure batteries are fully charged so you don’t have to carry those.
- Valuable jewelry if planning to bring any. (I don’t recommend it. Simplify with a few costume pieces and pack in checked bags.)
- Diaper bag for younger kids with enough diapers and wipes, baby food/bottles, and a couple toys to get through 6 hours. (Of all the family cruise tips, this is my favorite. Think of what you’d normally pack for a one day outing. That’s all you need for your carryon diaper bag.)
Some things you do NOT need in your carry on bag for a cruise. Just pack these items in your cruise luggage.
- A change of clothes. You’ll have access to your cabin before dinner so you can change. And if your luggage arrives late, don’t worry! Dinner the first night is quite casual.
- Beach towels. Towels are provided for guests by all major cruise lines. You can use them for shore excursions, but remember to return them to the ship or you’ll be charged for them.
- Chargers for electronics. Make sure phones, cameras, e-readers and computer are fully charged the morning of the cruise and pack the chargers in your checked luggage. Less is best for cruising carry-ons.
Some final cruise packing tips and hacks
Tip One: When I travel, I always take a photo of my checked luggage. If my luggage gets lost — or held by cruise security — I can show staff exactly what the bag looks like, making it quicker and easier to retrieve.
On a Carnival cruise with my mom, security held one of my bags because something apparently didn’t look right to them. I went to guest services and showed them my photo. They retrieved my bag and explained it needed a hand search. Two minutes later, search uneventful, I had my bag and enjoyed a lovely vacation.
TIP TWO: If traveling with someone else, divide your checked items into two suitcases. That way, if one is lost or delayed, you both have something to wear. This is a great tip for all travel, not just cruise travel.
TIP THREE: When packing, ask yourself, “Do I need this?” If the answer is no, leave it out. If the answer is, “But if XYZ happens, I might need….” leave it out.
Save this post to Pinterest!
If you aren’t ready to pack just yet, save this cruise packing tips and list for later. That way, you’ll have it whenever you need it!
If you love cruising (or want to learn more), you might like these posts:
- Cruise Essentials — Little extras to make your cruise vacation even better!
- Cruising 101: How to navigate the cruise terminal
- What’s the best cruise line for families? (with infographic comparison)
- Cruising 101: What you need to know about shore excursions
- Cruise mistakes: What first timers need to know
Latestmodapks says
This is a great post! I’m so glad I found it. I’m going on my first cruise in a few months and I’m really worried about what to pack. This post has given me a lot to think about.
Kendra Hall says
5th cruise, but so happy to find this again my friend. Longest cruise I’ve ever been on, and I am panicking about the packing.
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Mary says
Going on my first cruise on Mariner of the Seas and just read I cannot bring my heating pad and I have severe osteoporosis and have had 5 fractures and use my pad every night to sleep. So that is upsetting although I realize it could be a fire hazard. So my next question is we have an ocean view cabin, Do bathrooms have a hairdryer to dry my hair in our room?
Karen Dawkins says
Hi Mary. Before you travel, speak with the cruise line to ask about alternatives to the heating pad. Or, you can pack the gel heating packs designed for one time use. And, yes, there are blow dryers in each cabin. They are not the most powerful hair dryers in the world, but they get the job done. To be honest, I only used them for formal and semi-formal dining nights. The wind does a good job otherwise. Enjoy your cruise!
Kathryn Trewin says
I disagree with not taking a change of clothes in your carry on…as we arrived to check in for one of our cruises, we were caught in an absolute downpour…luckily we were able to change quickly once on board, particularly as our bags didn’t arrive until after dinner that night.
Karen Dawkins says
That’s a great point, and certainly, there are exceptions to everything. I change my packing if weather dictates I should. Thanks for bringing that point up!
Jennifer Wilson Perry says
I made the mistake of not having a change of clothes for my very first cruise. We had a very hectic day and by dinner all I really wanted was to brush my teeth and put on a clean shirt. But because we did not have our luggage I went to dinner feeling not my best.
Jenny from the North says
Good suggestions for first timers, but once you’ve gotten through that test… just a suggestion but you really never need to take more than a carryon suitcase no matter how long the trip. I don’t even own a larger suitcase anymore. The airline can’t lose your bag, you can skip the cruise ship bag check in and walk all your belongings to your cabin. You have everything with you from the minute you arrive. On disembarkation day you can walk off as soon as the gang plank is down – no setting luggage out the night before and waiting in some lounge area to be cleared to disembark and go find your luggage ashore. On one cruise where we ended in Venice we’d checked into our hotel and were an hour into sightseeing before the time the ship would have let us off if we had luggage to deal with. My next trip is 2+ weeks in Tuscany followed by a 30+ day transatlantic/repositioning cruise – all with just a carryon bag: 13 tops x 8 bottoms=104 outfits for a 50ish day trip, so enough for a day and evening outfit every day without ever repeating a combination. I’m still taking way too much but I don’t want to get sick of the same few outfits and I can go at least 10 days before doing laundry.
FYI – all the giant suitcases in the hallway always makes us smile- did they bring their friends along in those bags? 😉
This same process works just fine with kids too. On our first cruise our kids were 6 and 13 and were in charge of dragging their own wheeled carryon bags from home to the ship’s cabin. The little one needed help getting her bag in the overhead on the plane but otherwise she had to be able to manage her own bag. The only exception I can see to needing more space than a carry on is vast quantities of diapers for a baby, or bulky gear like a cpap machine perhaps?
Amy says
After spending a week in Italy with no luggage, I never check luggage anymore. Have done transatlantic with only a carryon. So much easier!
Kim says
Can you take and use a c-pap machine on Holland America cruises?
Nancy Muldowney says
yes, hubby and I always take ours
Karen Dawkins says
Medical equipment is always allowed on a cruise ship. Some older ships don’t have convenient electrical outlets, so discuss that whoever books your cruise to make sure you have what you need.
Nisha says
This is the best packing list I have ever seen! Such a detailed post. I have saved it.
Karen Dawkins says
Thanks! I’m glad you liked it. I hope you get to use it often!
Toni says
Hi,
I am going on my cruise in Jan, 2020. I have read about 20 blogs like this one. I have written all the tips in my cruise journal. This is a good article.
Question- my daughter is renewing her vows on board and i am wondering can i take a gift to give them on board the ship? We are traveling on Carnival.
Karen Dawkins says
Great question! You can take gifts with you. When we travel, I often take little gifts for my kids — they get souvenirs but I don’t spend as much.
Make sure you follow airline guidelines when packing it. If it’s something fragile or valuable, pack it in carry on.
That sounds like a great place to renew vows. Our 30th anniversary is that same year!
Sandy says
Thank you for these wonderful tips!! We are going in our first cruise in 5 day??!! (Beyond excited). Please could some one tell me if you are allows to take the ships pool towels on shore with you? And are you allowed to pack a food snack for your day on shore, including a beer possibly ?
Karen Dawkins says
Hi Sandy,
Have a GREAT cruise! So exciting.
Regarding pool towels, the short answer is yes, you can take them with you. However, if you lose the towel, the cruise ship will charge a fee to replace it. Understandably, of course.
I do pack snacks for shore, but only packaged foods (crackers, etc.) In general, you cannot take fresh food off the ship because of safety issues.
I’ve never taken a beer off the ship, so I don’t know if you can or not. But, they do not search bags before you leave. The greater risk here might be drinking in a public place where alcohol is not allowed or where outside alcohol is not allowed. Be sure you know local laws before you consider it. Does that help at all?
brooke says
hope this is helpful info because i am going on a cruise
Kristy Spencer says
Heyy! I love your tips! I never went for a cruise, but we are planing this summer. Your packing ideas will help me a lot to organize my suitcases. Greetings
Karen Dawkins says
I’m so glad you find these tips useful. I just got home from a cruise yesterday, and I used these tips to pack and prepare! 🙂
Karen says
I like to pack black, white, and khaki colored pants and tops plus scarves of all kind and all colors. Scarves and jewelry make an outfit look new!
Karen Dawkins says
Hi Karen! Great name AND great packing tip! I like scarves, too, because the air conditioning in the dining rooms and theaters can get chilly. Scarves offer a coverup option if needed. 🙂
When’s your next cruise?
Bianca says
I read some helpful items here https://www.smsmondial.com.mt/helpful-things-to-bring-on-a-cruise/ but love that the carry-on bag was very detailed in your post.
And I’m going to try rolling the clothes, you’d think they’d come more wrinkled but I’m going to have to see for myself!
Also am going to take pictures of my luggage from now on 🙂
Karen Dawkins says
It works if you roll them right! Make sure the rolls aren’t too tight. Make a core with socks or underwear or your swimsuit!
Amber says
We have been rolling our clothes and packing kids clothes in ziploc bags for years. I recently invested in packing cubes. We have traveled with them three times now and I love them in a way I never thought possible. I bought a different color for each family member and different sizes for different articles of clothing and toiletries. I am amazed at how much space they save in our suitcases, as well as how simple they make packing.
Bobbi says
As a massage therapist, I purchase MANY sheet sets, I find the plastic zippered bag the sheets come in are very strong and works great as a packing cube. Even when placing clothes in zip lock bags, the air sometimes creeps back into the bag and makes repacking difficult without squeezing or rolling out the air again. If you immediately place the compressed bags tightly into the plastic bag the sheets came in then zip it up, it stays compressed. I typically pack weeks before the trip so this works for me. I also place a fabric softener sheet in each bag to keep clothes just washed fresh.
Karen Dawkins says
Great tips! We recently bought a new comforter set and discovered that those bags make great storage packing cubes. Never thought about the sheet set bags. Thanks for that awesome tip!
Fabric softener sheets keep clothes smelling fresh — and they help with static. Double great tip!
MomSolo says
Sharing a “V8” moment: Pack smaller dental toiletries inside travel mugs and cups; especially if they’re going into checked bags. Makeup & applicators, cleansers & lotions can be stored & carried in them, too.
Small items that either get lost in suitcases or forgotten are ideal. Lip balm, wet & dry wipes, contact lens solutions or eye drops, anything that might leak or melt, etc. Nail polish & remover double bagged and tucked into a travel mug has a better chance of survival.
Tape a “packing slip” inside the lid. This helps Inspectors when bags are scanned and pulled for hand-inspection. Inspections happen. Make it easier on yourself and maybe put a smile on the Inspector’s face. I’ve put silly stickers on Baggies many times… just to give myself a smile while packing.
Oh! Almost forgot. Empty toilet paper and paper towel tubes are great for corralling all kinds of things in suitcases. I usually tuck in USB pigtails, charging cords, and similar items. Bandanas & scarves, extra hair ties & elastics…
Getting excited planning a solo cruise for the beginning of November. Enjoying reading different hints, tips & suggestions!
Karen Dawkins says
These are all great tips! And a solo cruise sounds like a lot of fun!!! Thank you so much for sharing your ideas.
Ashley H. says
Great minds think alike, as my husband and I have utilized 99% of the tips. I find that rolling your clothes in the carry-on size suitcase leaves less wrinkles and more room for stuff, eliminating the need to carry a backpack (most times, there is enough room for the backpack to lay flat).
I don’t bother bringing shampoo or sunscreen anymore, as the ship store has all of this and it’s way more convenient than lugging it around and bagging it for the airlines.
Bianca says
I can’t imagine rolling clothes will leave less wrinkles, am going to try that! 🙂
Julie Bruns says
The first time we went I packed a sundress for every evening meal. That is for me and my two daughters. You do not need a dress for every evening meal. In fact, every night (on a 7 day cruise) except for formal and semi-formal night, we wore nice shorts and a nice shirt/t-shirt. It was so much more comfortable and not having to worry about the dresses getting wrinkled!! Plus, the girls could then go straight to their kids club without having to go back and get play clothes on. Good idea on taking a picture of your luggage. I would have never thought of that. Two thumbs up!!!!
Julie Bruns says
We took our own snorkel gear too! Cheaper!!
Adam Robles says
Great tips Karen, love the idea of photographing your checked bags! Here’s some others we share with our clients… A small power strip for all your tech gadgets (phones, pads, readers, cameras) since outlets can be scarce and humans today gotta stay charged! Post-it notes to leave reminders and notes for your roomie or family members in different cabins, or even requests for your stateroom steward. Battery-operated tea light candles to set the mood on romantic getaways, plus it doubles as a night light. A lanyard to wear around your neck that can hold your sea pass card. Pack an empty fold up duffel or tote bag inside your luggage that can be used later to carry off souvenirs. Travel Febreeze for those quick traveling odors or to freshen up clothes when you recycle outfits. Binoculars for sightseeing and Walkie talkies to keep in touch on the ship. Disposable rain poncho (from the dollar store) just in case. Chair/curtain clips to ensure your pool or beach towels don’t fly away in the wind. Gum isn’t sold on ships, so pack some if you can’t do without it! If taking wine, remember a travel corkscrew (I forgot it on my last cruise and it took forever for the attendant bring us one). Baggage gremlins got your suitcase? Pack half of your stuff in your traveling partners bag, put half of theirs in yours. This way if one bag gets lost, you aren’t completely put out! And some other cruising tips: hang clothes in the bathroom while you shower and the steam gets rid of wrinkles. I’ve also seen a “travel smart mini iron” on Pinterest. Cabins are stingy when it comes to providing hooks to hang your personal things and did you know that most cabins have doors and walls that are made of metal? Pick up a pack of strong magnetic hooks to stick on cabin walls or doors to create more hanging space for sweaters, robes, baseball/straw hats, swimsuits, etc. Also, finding space is challenging for over-packers or a third person in a standard cabin–never fear–slide a suitcase under the bed, but leave it open, now you’ve got a new “drawer” for items you won’t need as frequently. Here’s another secret–why not use it to store your dirty laundry?
Gloria says
I pack plenty of ziploc bags in various sizes and a lunch bag with straps. For excursions, i can grab my snacks for the day from the food counters. Also, be sute to grab beverages. You’ll find lots of uses for ziploc bags.
Amanda says
I always do laundry on board. On one of our sea days, I just go early in the morning and wash a load or two, so I don’t have to pack as much. I bring my own detergent (either pods, or those laundry sheets). I know it isn’t for everyone, especially on vacation, but I’m fine with doing it.
I pack the kids’ clothes in ziploc bags. One outfit per bag, and then I suck the air out of each bag as I seal it. They take up very little space that way.
I also bring a tiny steamer for my clothes.
Karen Dawkins says
What kind of steamer? I have never heard of one being allowed, but it sure would be nice to take.
I also do laundry on most vacations, though not cruises. If I was cruising for 12 days, I would certainly rethink that strategy!!!!
Janie says
Celebrity Cruise ships do not have do-it yourself laundry facilities, but valet service/ dry cleaning/ laundry prices are reasonable enough to take advantage of. One of the perks of reaching an elite level of frequent cruising is free laundry. Almost as nice as free internet!
Orshedia Gist says
I’m glad you guys have left a lot of tips for us 1st timers. I’m cruising for 8 days March 27-April 4 and so needed this information.
Karen Dawkins says
Orshedia, Thanks! I’m glad we could help. I hope you have a fabulous cruise vacation. Just remember, if you forget to pack something, you’ll be just fine! (Except that passport and cruise boarding documents)! Enjoy!!!!
Kimberly says
We are going on our first cruise in July. I don’t really want to dress up for a formal dinner. Will I still be able to visit the restaurants, etc that night? We are going on Carnival Liberty.
Karen Dawkins says
Yes, you can still go to dinner if not dressed formally. Don’t wear swimsuits to dinner. If you wear a sundress or capris/dress pants or skirt and a top, you’ll be just fine. For formal night, I usually wear a maxi dress with my flashier earrings and call it done. Some will dress formally and others will just freshen up.
If you feel like staying in your swimsuit, just eat at the buffet on the pool deck that particular day. Though, I have to say dinner with our server is usually a highlight of the trip for me.
Donna says
Take a large scarf or Parshima..you WILL freeze at dinner..trust me
Renee says
Taking my first cruise in May……Carnival Valor to the Bahamas…..do they provide bottled water on this cruise?
Karen Dawkins says
Renee, you can purchase a bottled water package. It’s not free.
Karen says
@ Renee: Carnival allows you to take bottled water on board with you as well as one bottle of champagne or wine per person.
Sherri says
Carnival no longer allows plastic bottles of any kind to be brought on board, due to the “hiding of alcohol” 🙁 You can have a 12 bottle package delivered to your stateroom for $2.99 (order before sailing).
Karen Dawkins says
Hi Sherri,
Thanks for that update. I appreciate it — the travel industry is always changing, so updating policies is important!
Here is a link to the article reporting this change: https://money.cnn.com/2015/06/10/news/companies/carnival-cruises-bottled-water/
Karen Dawkins
Donna says
Tervis Rocks..pour wine in them from the room head to the Lido and add fruit and ice..voila Sangria all day
Samantha says
Where was this list back in 2012!? LOL, I really could of used something like this when I went on my 1st cruise. But now I can pin this for my future cruises 🙂 Thanks!
Karen Dawkins says
Ha ha! I hope it helps the next time around!
Toni says
we take our travel coffee mugs so we can walk around with a hot cup of coffee. I also take my little vanilla creamers
Karen Dawkins says
I make flavored coffee drinks using the soft serve ice cream on the pool deck. 🙂 YUM!
Erica says
I am DEFINITELY going to remember that tip when we go on our very first cruise in January 2017.
Karen Dawkins says
Oh…. it is so good!
Angi says
OMG – Facepalm moment! I bought frappachinos at the coffee shop when I could’ve made it myself for FREE. Great tip – I’m definitely gonna remember that on our next cruise in a couple weeks.
Tina Cook says
I also pack a can of air freshener because there is no exhaust fan in the bathroom of our room.
Bobbi says
I use a cheese grater and use a bar of nice smelling soap shredded and stored in small mesh bags hung in restroom and placed in drawers to keep things fresh.
Missi says
This is such a great list filled with so many ideas. Thanks so much for sharing!
Karen Dawkins says
Happy to help, Missi. Let me know if you have any other cruise questions — or travel questions for that matter!
crystal phipps says
I bring adult sippy cups(water bottles)! Those cups they provide for the ice tea and water are so small! Its nice to not refill all of the time!
Karen Dawkins says
Excellent tip, Crystal! We took Tervis mugs — they kept drinks plenty cold and held a lot — on our last cruise. Many people asked where they could get them. I will definitely pack them for my next one, even though I’m flying and luggage space is tight. 🙂
Kim says
I was wondering about taking our Tervis tumblers. I will definitely take mine!
Amber says
We are taking our Tervis tumblers again on our second cruise. They make handles for them also that are amazing (which we didn’t have the first cruise). Now one person can run to the soda machine and easily grab drinks for our family of four.
Jillian says
We took a Disney cruise with our 4 & 6 yr old. Packed each kids outfit, headband, underware, etc in a gallon Baggie from $1 store. Made dressing so easy & fast they could see what they wanted to wear with out help from us & it was all together. Plus we put all their clothes baggies in drawers & bulky suitcase was stored out of way!
Karen Dawkins says
Great tip, Jillian! A little advanced planning lets mom relax more on vacation too! You have everything you need, neatly organized! Thanks!
Sam says
I leave in 5 days for our 4th cruise and packed my 2 daughters clothing like this again… I used quart ziplock freezer bags w/ a pump to get all the air out. Im a true over packer and this saves a ton of space- plus no searching for undies, socks, or hairbows!!
Anne says
We are about to go on our sixth cruise, and my best tip would be to bring an over the door shoe organizer with clear pockets, and use it on either side of your bathroom door to store everything….meds, hair/makeup supplies, lotions, mini 1st aid kit, hair brush, flip flops…you get the idea. The bathrooms are not like a large hotel, there is usually 3-6 small corner shelves, the counter top, and maybe a shelf underneath- this is also a great spot to use a collapsible square bin for larger items. In most showers there is also an expandable clothes line to use for suits and such. We also always bring travel size hand sanitizer to take to port (the cruiselines usually provide it on ship, at the buffet). Hope this helps!
Karen Dawkins says
Anne,
Great tip! I actually wrote an organizing post on how to use over-the-door shoe hangers for hotel vacations with young kids. The bottom row can keep toys organized and out from under bare feet!
NOTE: These organizers are NOT allowed on Disney Cruise Line because they damage the paint job. With that said, though, Disney offers an abundance of space. We didn’t even use all the bathroom shelving in our cabin… or the drawers… or the closet! Lots of storage. 🙂
Thanks for all your tips!
crystal says
I saw this tip posted somewhere before our first cruise and it was a truly genius idea! Worked fantastically!!
Karen Dawkins says
Glad you like this tip! Just not for Disney. 🙂
Haley says
I went in my first cruise it was a blast but I under packed I bought some thing s on board to waer though. now I am going (maby ) 2 crusie in april I went on carnval they are truly aewsome
Jen says
Anyone just carry on their bags? We managed to pack within the 22x14x9 bag per person, so we could just carry these on. Plus they let you have a purse. We are backpackers so used to carrying way heavier things, and have a check in of 1230 so we probably won’t get on board til 130 which is close to room readiness anyway. Any thoughts?
Karen Dawkins says
Jen, For airlines, it’s nice to do carryon only and avoid that baggage fee. For a cruise ship, cabin delivery is included for free! I’d keep all valuables (computer, camera, passports) with me, but check everything else! Hauling those bags through the buffet line, up and down elevators or stairs, and everywhere else you go is a pain! Also, the rooms aren’t always open on time. If your cabin got trashed by its previous occupant (it happens, sadly), you may have those bags longer than you think.
Jen says
Thanks. That is what most info postings say. It’s not about the money/fees, but the day bag for all four of us is more than half our packed bags. We are very light efficient packers. So it is more efficient for us to just keep our stuff. Just thought I get someone to reply who had done this. I did find on Disboards several posts of people on varied length cruises who did carry luggage on and did just fine. I guess it depends on what you are used to and which is less stressful.
Brittney says
Hello Jen,
I have gone on several cruises and honestly, I have been trying to find a way to pack everything in just a carry on because I always get very nervous about my luggage being lost. I personally, would carry it on if you feel that you can! They may check your bag to make sure everything checks out but you shouldn’t have to check it in and wait for it to arrive at your room. Also, it may be a bit of extra weight to carry around that first day to have everything with you, but at least you don’t have to be worried about losing any luggage!
Karen Dawkins says
Great discussion. What did you decide to do, Jen? You can carry your luggage to the cruise ship and then let them take it to your room. That way you don’t have to worry about the airline, but you don’t have to lug it all over the ship either.
If you do decide to carry on, opt for a later check-in time (after 1). You might be able to take your luggage directly to your cabin! Easy.
If not, find a table near the pool and away from the lunch buffet lines. Leave one person with the luggage while the other 3 go through the lunch line — that’s the only thing that’s really tricky with luggage in tow. The buffet dining room is way too crowded to navigate with luggage.
Rachel Hope says
Another tip that I remember from the last cruise that my family took, is to make your luggage unique b/c at disembarkment they just pile everyone’s luggage together and you have to try to decide which bags are yours. It is worse than at the airport.
Linda mindiola says
Thank you for the packing list! I will be going on my first cruise this upcoming January! Cozumel and Progresso, Mexico!
Katrina says
I’m going on that cruise too. I’m leaving January 5th 🙂
susan says
I am taking my first cruise early this fall and I always over pack. Thank you for the list. I am going to try to pack everything in two bags. One checked bag and one swim bag. That would be picture worthy!
Karen Dawkins says
I sure hope the packing list works for you, Susan! Where are you going?