The Ultimate Cruise Packing List I Wish I Had Before My Trip

IG: ms.mackenzie_

Here’s the thing about cruises: you don’t really know how much you’ve packed until you’re standing in a cabin the size of your old college dorm and you have to step over a pile of shoes just to get to the balcony.

Been there. More than once.

Cruise life is its own little ecosystem. One day you’re in the pool by 10 a.m., the next you’re in a glittery dress at a captain’s dinner. And between the two, there’s about a thousand outfit changes, temperature swings, and random activities. (Yes, I once went from a Pilates class straight to a wine tasting – no, the outfit didn’t work for both.)

So, after years of doing it wrong, here’s my ultimate Cruise packing list I wish someone had shoved in my hand before my very first cruise.

Day-to-Evening Clothes You Can Actually Move In

Bring things that don’t just look cute in the mirror, but also survive a long breakfast, a few hours exploring a port, and maybe a spontaneous cocktail invite. For me, that’s breezy sundresses, linen pants, and easy tops that don’t wrinkle the moment I sit down.

Evenings? A couple of slightly fancier dresses or jumpsuits – nothing that makes you feel like you’re wearing a costume. I usually pack one “wow” piece for photos and one safe all-black backup for when I just can’t be bothered.

And yes, you’ll want at least one proper activewear set. Not only for the gym or excursions – trust me, comfy leggings and a good tank come in handy for random ship activities, too.

Swimwear That Doesn’t Sit in Your Suitcase Wet

The rule is simple: always bring more than one swimsuit. Cabins aren’t great for drying things, and nobody likes putting on a damp bikini. I go for two bikinis (one for photos, one for, you know, actual swimming) and one one-piece that doubles as a bodysuit with shorts or a skirt.

And please – a cover-up that actually covers enough so you can walk into lunch without feeling half-dressed.

Shoes – The Ruthless Three-Pair Rule

If you’re a shoe lover, you’re going to hate me for this, but here’s the truth: you only need three pairs.

Comfortable sandals for walking all day in port.
Dressy but stable shoes for dinners (wedges > stilettos on a moving ship).
Sneakers for travel days and excursions.

Anything more is a space stealer. And in a cabin, space is gold.

Accessories That Pull Their Weight

I’m not about bringing ten pairs of earrings “just in case.” Pick things that work hard:

Sunglasses: one nice pair, one cheap backup for the beach.
Hats: wide-brim for sun, baseball cap for casual days.
Evening bag: small, neutral, works with every dress you own.
Statement jewelry: one or two pieces that can dress up a plain outfit instantly.

Beauty & Skincare – Because Ship Air Will Wreck You

The sun at sea is aggressive. The air-con? Even worse.
So:

SPF – face, body, lips. Don’t skip.
A rich moisturizer (yes, even if you “never” need one).
Makeup that multitasks: tinted moisturizer, cream blush that works as lip color, waterproof mascara.
Hair products for both “beachy” and “sleek” moods – salt spray and smoothing serum are my staples.

Things People Always Forget (Until It’s Too Late)

I’ve seen grown adults buy $30 flip-flops from the ship boutique because they forgot theirs. Don’t be that person.
Pack:

A light sweater or wrap for chilly deck nights.
A foldable tote for souvenirs.
A portable charger (ship outlets are few and far between).
Magnetic hooks (yes, ship walls are magnetic – it’s a game changer for hanging stuff).
A tiny first aid kit – seasickness tablets included.

The Overpacking Cure

Here’s my ruthless method: lay everything out, then take out one-third.

Five dresses? Make it three.
Four pairs of sandals? Nope, down to two.
You’ll thank yourself when you don’t have to dig through a suitcase just to find your toothbrush.

My Go-To Formula for a 7-Day Cruise

3 day dresses
2 evening looks
2 bikinis + 1 one-piece
1 pair jeans or tailored pants
1 cardigan or light jacket
1 activewear set
3 pairs shoes (the magic number)
Accessories + beauty bag + essentials

All fits in a carry-on and tote. And yes, it still somehow feels like I packed too much – but I’m working on it.

FAQ:

What to pack on a cruise checklist?

Always start with the non-negotiables: swimwear, evening outfits, daywear you can walk around in, and comfortable shoes.

Then add the small lifesavers – a light sweater for breezy nights, sunscreen, a portable charger, and yes, magnetic hooks (trust me, ship walls are magnetic, and they’re a game changer). Everything else is just nice to have.

What clothes do you need to take on a cruise?

Think in categories – day clothes for exploring ports, swimwear for pool and beach, something chic for dinners, and a bit of activewear in case you hit the gym or join an excursion.

And always a wrap or light jacket; even tropical cruises can get chilly at night on deck.

What to bring for a first time cruise?

Pack like you’re going to a resort, but with less space. A couple of versatile outfits you can mix and match, swim gear, and one dressier look for formal night.

Also bring a small tote for shore days, a reusable water bottle, and your favorite sunscreen – ship prices are no joke.

What is not allowed in luggage on a cruise?

Cruise lines are strict about safety. No irons, kettles, candles, or anything that could be a fire hazard. Weapons (obviously), illegal substances, and most alcohol you didn’t buy onboard are also a no-go.

Check your cruise line’s official list before packing – saves a lot of hassle.

What is the best color to wear on a cruise?

You can wear literally anything, but I love whites, creams, and soft pastels for daytime – they pop beautifully against the sea.

For evenings, navy or deep jewel tones always feel chic and photograph like a dream.