Travel guide
The Cruise Packing Checklist We Send Every Client
By Roger Strickland · February 10, 2026 · Last updated June 20, 2026· 5 min read
After 850 trips booked, this is the packing list we send every cruiser - the small items first-timers forget and the things you should leave at home.
Documents (do these first)
Missing paperwork is the #1 reason travelers get denied boarding. Print everything and keep digital copies in a folder on your phone.
- Passport book valid 6+ months past your return date (always - even closed-loop cruises)
- Printed boarding pass and cruise eDocs
- Driver's license or government ID
- Travel insurance policy + 24-hour assistance number
- Credit card on file for the ship account (not a debit card)
- Copy of your itinerary emailed to a family member at home
Clothing (think layers + one nice outfit)
Cruise dress codes have relaxed dramatically. You'll need one nice outfit for the main dining room on formal nights and one for an excursion - everything else is resort-casual.
- 5 to 7 swimsuits (you'll rotate them constantly)
- Lightweight cover-up and a sun hat
- One pair of comfortable walking shoes for port days
- One nice outfit per formal night (usually 2 on a 7-night cruise)
- A light jacket - ship AC is aggressive
- Workout clothes if you'll hit the gym or jogging track
Toiletries + meds
Cabins have basic shampoo and body wash but not much else. Bring everything you'd want at home.
- All prescriptions in original bottles, plus 3 extra days' worth
- Seasickness meds: Bonine or meclizine (less drowsy than Dramamine)
- Reef-safe sunscreen (some ports require it)
- Aloe and Tylenol
- Imodium and Pepto - your stomach will encounter new food
What to leave at home
Cruise lines confiscate these at security and you won't get them back until the last day - or at all.
- Power strips with surge protection (banned for fire safety)
- Steamers, irons, or hot plates
- Outside liquor - cruise lines screen luggage; one bottle of wine per cabin is the usual allowance
- Drones (banned on most lines)
- Anything inflatable (banned on most pool decks)
The small items first-timers forget
We hear about these every trip. Pack them and you'll thank us.
- Magnetic hooks (cabin walls are metal - hang hats, bags, swimsuits)
- Over-the-door shoe organizer (best toiletry storage in a small cabin)
- Lanyard with a clear pouch for your key card
- A small day-bag for excursions
- Eye mask + earplugs (you may have a neighbor who slams doors)
- Portable phone charger for long port days
Next step
Ready to plan your trip?
Tell us what you're thinking and Roger will personally come back with options. Free quote, no booking fees.