24 Sep 2025 | By Charlotte Richards In Pre-cruise-preparation

The Ultimate Cruise Packing Guide: Must-Haves & What to Avoid

Packing for a cruise can feel exciting—and a little overwhelming. You want to be prepared for everything, from relaxing by the pool to dining in style, without overpacking your suitcase. To help you, we’ve broken down the essentials you might not think of, as well as what you should leave at home.

5 Items You Must Always Take on a Cruise (You Might Not Think Of)

While swimsuits, sunscreen, and casual clothes are obvious, there are a few cruise essentials that many travellers forget:

Portable Power Strip or USB Hub
Cruise cabins often have limited outlets, and everyone in your group may need to charge phones, cameras, and tablets at the same time. A compact power strip or USB hub can save arguments and keep your devices charged.
Collapsible Tote or Daypack
Handy for excursions or trips to the beach, a collapsible tote or small backpack is perfect for carrying water, snacks, sunscreen, and souvenirs without having to lug around your main luggage.
Magnetic Hooks
Most cruise ship cabins have metal walls or doors. Magnetic hooks help maximize your storage space for hats, jackets, bags, and more.
Seasickness Remedies
Even if you rarely get seasick, it’s better to be safe. Ginger candies, wristbands, or motion-sickness tablets can make your trip much more enjoyable
Reusable Water Bottle
Cruise ships offer plenty of fresh water, but having your own bottle makes it easy to stay hydrated while exploring the ship or going on excursions.

What Not to Bring on a Cruise Ship

Just as important as packing the right items is knowing what to leave behind. Some things can cause inconvenience, extra fees, or even safety concerns. Avoid these at all costs:

Irons or Hot Plates – Most cruise lines prohibit these due to fire hazards.
Large Amounts of Cash – Your onboard card is safer for purchases; only carry what you need for excursions.
Valuable Jewellery or Expensive Electronics – Cabins can be secure, but it’s better to minimize risk.
Restricted Items – This includes certain medications, alcohol, or drones—check your cruise line’s policies.
Excessive Clothing – Cruise cabins have limited closet space, so pack versatile pieces you can mix and match.

Final Tips

Packing smart is key to enjoying your cruise to the fullest. Remember: think practical, stay organised, and leave unnecessary items at home. With these tips, you’ll have everything you need for a smooth sailing experience.

Published 24th September 2025, Last updated 5th November 2025
By Charlotte Richards In Pre-cruise-preparation