Everything you need on board and in port — from formal dinner outfits and magnetic cabin hooks to seasickness tablets and waterproof excursion bags.
Cruise packing is unlike any other trip type. You need formal clothes for dinner, casual clothes for days at sea, beach gear for port excursions, and practical items specific to ship life that most packing lists don't mention — magnetic hooks, power strips without surge protectors, over-door organisers. This checklist covers all of it, including the cruise-specific items that experienced cruisers swear by and first-timers wish someone had told them about.
The things experienced cruise holiday travellers wish someone had told them before their first trip.
Cruise ship cabin walls are mostly metal and magnetic. Pack 6–8 magnetic hooks (€5–10 total) and suddenly you have somewhere to hang bags, lanyards, hats, and wet towels. The difference in cabin organisation is remarkable.
Most cruise cabins have only one or two power outlets. A basic power strip (without a surge protector — these are banned on most ships for fire safety reasons) lets you charge multiple devices at once. Check your cruise line's specific policy before packing.
Many people who've never been seasick on a cruise find open-ocean days unexpectedly rough. Tablets, patches, and wristbands are all significantly cheaper bought before departure than from the ship's shop. Pack them as insurance.
You'll be on shore with sun, sea, and sometimes rain. A lightweight dry bag or waterproof daypack protects your camera, phone, and documents during snorkelling, boat trips, and unexpected rain showers in port.
The full cruise holiday packing list, broken into categories. Use our free interactive tool to check items off, add your own, and export to any format.
The most frequently asked questions about packing for a cruise holiday.
We are working on a beautifully designed printable version of the Cruise packing list. Cruise PDF
Roamers List has personalised packing lists for all 9 trip types.