This cruise packing list includes 10+ items you won't regret bringing

When you're on a floating hotel at sea, surrounded by hundreds — or even thousands — of other passengers, you want to be as comfortable as possible.

Before your journey starts, here are 11 must-have items to pack for your next cruise.

Watch this video for 10 things you should pack before setting sail on your next cruise. 

How to prepare for a cruise

Enjoying your cruise starts before you even leave for the ship. 

Pack your suitcase and don’t forget to leave room for souvenirs you pick up on your trip. Always check the weather for the ports you're visiting to get an idea of what to expect, whether that’s rain, extreme heat or something else, and pack accordingly. Don’t forget to bring layers, too. You never know how cold the air conditioning will be or how windy it might get.

Bring printed and digital copies of your important documents. Take some time to research where you’re traveling and who to contact if your passport gets lost or stolen on your trip. 

Many cruises rely on an app, so download it ahead of time and explore its features.

Shop top-rated related products:  

• Helpful device tracker: Apple AirTag 4-Pack  
• Top-rated travel steamer: Jack ＆ Rose Travel Steamer for Clothes  
• Essential travel tech: 2-Pack European Travel Plug Adapter USB-C  
• Best-selling sleep mask: Mzoo Sleep Eye Mask  
• A popular wireless charger: Yootech Wireless Charger  
• Must-have luggage: Travelpro Platinum Elite Softside Expandable Luggage  
• Organization hack: Amazon Basics 4-Piece Packing Cubes Set  
• The best portable battery pack: Portable Charger with Built-In Charging Cables  
• Skip the mess: Tide Pen Stain Remover for Clothes  
• Versatile travel pillow: trtl Travel Pillow for Neck and Shoulder Support  
• Top-rated adult coloring book: Cindy Elsharouni Stress Relieving Adult Coloring  

How to pack for a cruise

Of course, you’ll need to pack the essentials, like clothes, shoes and toiletries. It can take hours for your luggage to reach your room on embarkation day, so bring a personal carry-on with essentials, such as:

• A swimsuit.
• Medications.
• Sunscreen.
• Phone charger.
• Passport.

In addition to the essentials, there are some items that can have a big impact on your experience. 

1. Magnetic hooks can hold bags, hats and more on the metal cabin walls.
2. BYOB! Pack a refillable bottle or two to help you stay hydrated. Bring one for hot drinks and another for cold. If you’re on a longer journey, bring a little dish soap so you can clean them.
3. Sickness remedies can be purchased on ship, but they’re more affordable at your local drugstore. Even if you’re not prone to sea sickness or tummy troubles, it’s better to be prepared than miserable. 
4. Hand sanitizer and sanitizing wipes. 
5. A beach tote or small backpack is perfect for excursions and pool days. 
6. Cabins can be extremely dark at night, so consider bringing a nightlight to avoid turning on all the lights or stubbing your toes as you navigate the path to the bathroom.
7. Many cruise lines don’t allow irons or steamers, so pack a wrinkle release spray. Bonus points if it’s a DIY version.
8. If you bring a Bluetooth speaker, be mindful of your fellow guests and only use it in your cabin, not on the beach or pool deck. 
9. A laundry bag will keep your dirty clothes separate from the clean ones and off the floor of a small cabin. 
10. A dry bag can transport your wet swimsuits and towels without getting everything else damp.  
11. Towel clips help keep your towel from blowing off your chair. They can also come in handy later for hanging wet items to dry.