10 Must Pack Items For Going on a Cruise

Hey there travel enthusiasts and welcome to my post where I have lined up my 10 must-pack items for going on a cruise this year. Going on a cruise is an exciting and enjoyable way to travel, offering stunning ocean views, delicious food and a variety of fun activities for all ages. However, in the midst of all this excitement, it’s easy to get carried away and forget to pack essential items.

That’s where a good packing list for a cruise come in. From travel documents to sunscreen and comfortable shoes, we’ll cover everything you need to know to pack like a pro and make the most of your time on board.

Must Pack Items For Going on a Cruise

So, as above, packing properly for a cruise is something that can really make a difference to your experience. Let’s have a look at some must pack items below.

Check out these: Tips On What to Look for When Choosing a Cruise

1. Travel documents

When it comes to going on a cruise, one of the most important cruise ship must haves is your travel documents. This includes your passport or other valid forms of identification, visas, travel permits, travel insurance details and any other documentation specific to that cruise line.

Before embarking on your cruise, it’s important to double-check the travel requirements for your destination as depending on where you’re traveling to, you may need to obtain a visa or other travel permits before you are permitted to disembark. Additionally, make sure that your passport or ID is up-to-date and will not expire during your travel dates. Some countries require that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date, so it’s important to check this information as well.

Finally, don’t forget your cruise tickets or any other necessary booking information. This will help ensure a smooth embarkation process and allow you to start enjoying your vacation right away.

Check out these: Cruise luggage tag holders

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2. Sun protection

Sun protection is another crucial item to pack when going on a cruise as this is a vacation where you tend to spend extended periods outdoors – even if it is just lazing on a lounge chair. Additionally, open water can expose you to harmful UV rays that can damage your skin as well. Sun protection options include:

• Sunscreen: Choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF (at least 30 – 50) to protect against both UVA and UVB rays. Apply it generously and frequently throughout the day, especially after swimming or activities.
• Protective clothing: Covering up with lightweight clothing can also help protect your skin from the sun. Consider packing items like hats, long-sleeved shirts, and sarongs or cover-ups to wear over your swimsuit.
• Sunglasses: Protect your eyes from the sun’s glare by packing a pair of polarized sunglasses. They’ll help reduce eye strain and prevent long-term damage to your eyes.
• Seek shade: When possible, seek out shade during the hottest parts of the day to reduce your overall sun exposure.

With these precautions in place, you can enjoy all the fun activities and beautiful views that a cruise vacation has to offer while keeping your skin healthy and protected.

Check out these: 20 Best Cruises from Florida

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3. Motion sickness medication

Now, whilst this one may not fit into the cool things to bring on a cruise catregory, this tip involves addressing motion sickness which is a common issue that many people experience when traveling on a cruise, especially if they’re not accustomed to the constant rolling of the ocean. Symptoms can include nausea, dizziness and vomiting, and can seriously impact your enjoyment of the cruise.

Here are some key considerations when packing for motion sickness medication:

• Consult with your doctor: If you’re unsure whether you need motion sickness medication, it’s best to consult with your doctor before your trip. They can recommend the best medication for you and advise you on any potential side effects or interactions with other medications.
• Choose the right medication: There are a variety of motion sickness medications available, including over-the-counter options such as Dramamine and prescription medications like scopolamine patches. Be sure to research the different options and choose the one that works best for you.
• Pack enough medication: Make sure to bring enough medication to last throughout your entire cruise. It’s also a good idea to bring extra, just in case.

Read all packaging carefully as some work best by taking before you even board the ship to help prevent symptoms from occurring in the first place. Others however are to be taken once symptoms set in.

Check out these: 10 Tips for Going on a Cruise with a Baby

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4. Comfortable walking shoes

Something that surprises many on a cruise – especially if it is their first trip – is the amount of walking you do. Cruise ships can be quite large and obviously there is no vehicular transport to get you from A to B so a good pair of walking shoes in another must.

Look for shoes that provide good arch support and cushioning to prevent foot fatigue and pain and avoid wearing your flip flops all day. Pack shoes that can be worn with a variety of outfits and in different environments, such as at the beach or on a city tour for some space saving as well.

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5. Appropriate clothing

As with shoes above, you should not overlook the appropriate clothing for the activities and destinations you’ll be visiting either. Additionally, many cruise lines have dress codes for certain areas of the ship or formal events, so be sure to research the specific dress code for your cruise and pack accordingly.

Consider the climate of the destinations you’ll be visiting and pack appropriate clothing. For example, if you’re visiting a tropical destination, you’ll want to pack lightweight, breathable clothing while if you’re visiting a cooler destination, you’ll want to pack warmer clothing.

I strongly recommend choosing clothing items that can be worn in multiple ways or for multiple occasions to save space in your luggage. For example, a sundress can be worn to dinner or to the beach.

Lastly, you should anticipate how often you’ll have access to laundry facilities on the ship and pack accordingly. If you’ll only have access to laundry facilities once or twice during the cruise, pack enough clothing to last you for the duration of the trip.

Check out these: 7 Best Cruises from Los Angeles

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6. Reusable water bottle

This tip might be a minor thing but there are some advantages that you can experience if you bring a reusable water bottle for the duration of your cruise trip. Cruises often generate a lot of waste, including disposable plastic water bottles so by bringing a reusable water bottle, you can reduce your environmental impact and help keep the ocean clean- and reduce the cost of purchasing water on board as well.

Having a reusable water bottle with you also makes it easy to stay hydrated without having to constantly buy and dispose of plastic water bottles. Plus, many reusable water bottles are designed to be easy to carry and can attach to backpacks or belts for convenience.

When packing a reusable water bottle for your cruise, make sure to choose a durable and leak-proof option that is easy to refill and carry. Look for an option that is made from high-quality materials, such as stainless steel or BPA-free plastic and that has a secure lid or cap to prevent spills.

Check out these: Filtered water bottles for travel

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7. Small day bag

Whether you’re going on a shore excursion or exploring the ship, a small day bag is a convenient way to carry all the essentials you’ll need for a day of exploring, . You should ensure that the bag can also provide added security for your valuables, such as your phone, wallet and passport.

By keeping these items in a separate bag, you can reduce the risk of losing or misplacing them during your travels.

Look for a bag with multiple compartments or pockets to keep your items separated and easy to find. Also make sure it is durable and water-resistant and one with RFID-blocking technology as well to prevent theft of your credit card or passport information. Waterproof pouches can also work well here.

Check out these: Day bags for cruising

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8. First-aid kit

While cruise ships typically have medical facilities and staff on board, it’s always a good idea to have a basic first aid kit on hand in case of minor injuries or medical emergencies. This can include bandages, antiseptic wipes, and pain relief medication.

If you have any specific medical conditions or requirements, a first aid kit can be a good way to ensure you have the necessary supplies on hand and could include items such as EpiPens, inhalers or prescription medication. Having a first aid kit readily available can save time and hassle in the event of an injury or medical issue. Rather than having to search for supplies or wait for medical assistance, you can quickly and easily address the issue – especially if you are traveling with young children.

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9. Personal toiletries

As with any trip, personal toiletries are essential cruise must haves when going on a cruise as they can help you maintain your hygiene and keep you feeling fresh and comfortable throughout your trip. Here are some options to add to your cruise packing list:

• Toothbrush and toothpaste: Pack a travel-sized toothbrush and toothpaste to ensure you can maintain fresh breath and healthy teeth.
• Soap and shampoo: Many cruise ships provide basic toiletries, but it’s always a good idea to pack your soap and shampoo. This can help ensure that you have products that are gentle on your skin and hair and that you’re familiar with the ingredients.
• Deodorant: Sweating is a natural part of being in a warm, tropical environment, but it can also lead to body odor. Pack a deodorant to help you stay fresh and smell nice.
• Moisturizer: Sun exposure and salt water can dry out your skin, so it’s important to pack a moisturizer to keep your skin soft and supple.
• Razor and shaving cream: If you prefer to shave, don’t forget to pack a razor and shaving cream. This can help you maintain a smooth, clean-shaven look throughout your trip.
• Feminine hygiene products: For women, it’s important to pack feminine hygiene products such as pads or tampons. Cruise ships typically provide these items, but it’s always a good idea to pack your own just in case.
• Contact lens solution: If you wear contact lenses, be sure to pack your contact lens solution and a spare set of lenses. This can help you avoid eye infections and discomfort.

As above, cruises provide some of these items, however they are generally cheap and low quality so anything you can bring from home, the better.

Check out these: Toiletry bags for travel

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10. Electronic gadgets

Now let’s take a look at some of the fun things to bring on a cruise. These gadgets are essential items to pack when going on a cruise, especially if you want to stay connected, entertained and capture memories of your trip. Here are some popular electronic gadgets to consider bringing on your next cruise:

• Smartphone: Your smartphone is a versatile device that can serve as a camera, music player, internet browser and more. You can also use it to make calls and send texts while on board the ship, depending on your carrier’s coverage.
• Camera: A camera is a must-have item for capturing memories of your cruise. Whether you prefer a point-and-shoot camera or a more advanced DSLR camera, make sure to bring extra batteries and memory cards.
• Tablet: A tablet is a great device for watching movies, reading books and browsing the internet. It’s also a good alternative to a laptop if you need to do some work while on vacation.
• Portable charger: With all the electronic gadgets you’ll be using on your cruise, it’s essential to bring a portable charger to keep your devices charged and ready to use. A good cruise approved power strip will help here too.
• Headphones: Whether you’re listening to music, watching movies, or taking part in a guided tour, a good pair of headphones can make all the difference.
• E-readers: Cruise ship cabins can be small and space is limited, so packing a lot of physical books may not be feasible. An e-reader allows you to bring multiple books with you without taking up too much space. 
• Portable Fan: A good portable fan for cruise ship cabins will keep you cool and assist in cirulating the air when the doors are closed all day as well.

It is of course important to note that while electronic gadgets can enhance your cruise experience, it’s also essential to unplug and enjoy your surroundings. Remember to take breaks from your devices and enjoy the natural beauty and social experiences that cruising offers. Also, make sure to check with the cruise line regarding their electronic device policies and restrictions to avoid any issues during your trip.

Check out these: Door Magnets for Cruising

Conclusion

There you have it, my list of must haves on a cruise. I would be pleased to know how this article helped you, and as usual,  let me know of your experiences with them.

Also, please do not hesitate to comment below if you have any questions, concerns, or corrections or would like me to check anything else out for you.

Until next time.

Have fun

Paul