Top 10 Things to Pack for a Cruise

Packing for a cruise takes a little more thought than your average holiday, especially if it’s your first time. The good news? Cruising has become far more relaxed over the years. Long gone are the days when evening gowns and tuxedos were non-negotiable. Most liners now keep dress codes casual, which makes things much easier.

Unless you’ve booked a particularly glamorous voyage, you can leave the stilettos and sequins at home.

But what should you be packing instead?

Before we get into the list, a few smart things to know:

• Cabins are compact. Storage space is limited, so packing light and organised is key. Packing cubes are a game-changer here, helping you fit more into smaller spaces while keeping everything easy to find.
• Interior cabins get dark and stuffy. A nightlight and a small portable fan can make them far more comfortable.
• Ship walls are metal. A handful of magnetic hooks can instantly create more hanging space for hats, scarves, or wet swimmers.

1. Comfortable clothing for your destination

Cruise packing is less about the ship and more about where you’re going. A Mediterranean itinerary looks very different to Antarctica. The trick? Comfortable, casual staples that mix and match. Three tops + three bottoms = nine looks = a week’s worth of outfits.

2. Wrinkle-release spray

Packed clothes tend to crease. A wrinkle-release spray freshens things up, smooths out folds, and doubles as a light fabric refresher.

3. Swimwear & sarongs

Most cruises head somewhere sunny, so pack at least two swimsuits and two versatile cover-ups. Sarongs work hard: as a poolside throw, a shawl for evening, or a modesty layer when visiting temples or churches ashore.

4. Sun protection

Cruise boutiques are notoriously overpriced for basics. Bring your own sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brim hat so you’re not caught paying triple onboard.

5. Seasickness tablets

If you’re prone to motion sickness, or unsure, don’t risk it. That first 24 hours at sea can be rough without a remedy.

6. A compact day bag

Excursions ashore call for a small, comfortable bag for your essentials. Think water bottle, sunscreen, cruise card, and camera. A lightweight anti-theft crossbody (like Zoomlite’s Florence Shoulder Bag) is perfect for crowded markets and busy ports, while a slim backpack works better for longer outdoor tours.

7. A thoughtfully packed carry-on

Cruise check-ins can be long, and cabins aren’t always ready straight away. Having a carry-on with swimwear, documents, chargers, and a change of clothes means you can head straight to the pool or explore the ship while you wait.

8. Comfortable walking shoes

Flip-flops are fine for the deck, but not for cobblestones or uneven paths ashore. Pack a pair of reliable walking shoes for sightseeing days.

9. A few smart accessories

A simple dress + statement earrings = dinner-ready. A shirt + blazer = cocktail night. Accessories let you elevate casual clothes without overpacking.

10. Personal entertainment

Cruises are lively, but downtime is inevitable. Pack books, download podcasts, or shows to enjoy during quiet cabin hours. Noise-cancelling headphones are worth their weight here.

What not to pack on a cruise

• Plug-in appliances: hair straighteners, kettles, and travel irons are fire hazards and not allowed.
• Beach towels: ships provide them, and you can usually sign them out for excursions.
• Candles or incense: strong smells and open flames don’t mix well onboard.
• Unlimited alcohol: most ships allow one or two bottles of wine per person, but check the rules before packing.

A final tip

Cruises are about ease. A little planning, from packing cubes that keep your cabin calm, to an anti-theft day bag for ports, or a foldable weekender for extra space, makes the whole experience more enjoyable.