The Ultimate Cruise Packing Checklist
A cruise vacation should be all about discovery, indulgence, and total relaxation. But even the most luxurious getaway can be derailed by something as simple as forgetting a must-have item. From misplaced passports to missing footwear, packing missteps can add unnecessary stress to an otherwise seamless experience. That’s where our expert travel advisors come in.
At Blue Ribbon Travel, we’ve helped countless travelers set sail on extraordinary voyages. To help you prepare for your next luxury travel experience, we’ve put together the ultimate cruise packing checklist. With our guidance, you’ll be ready for every cocktail hour, sun-soaked shore excursion, and unforgettable formal night.
Daytime cruise attire: what to wear onboard
Days at sea call for comfort with a splash of style. Most cruise ships lean toward a casual dress code during the day, so pack:
- Light, breathable clothing (think cotton or linen)
- Swimsuits and cover-ups for lounging poolside
- Comfortable shoes or sandals for walking the decks
- A light sweater or jacket for air-conditioned interiors
Whether you’re sipping a smoothie on the sundeck or popping into a café for a midday bite, you’ll want to feel both relaxed and resort-ready.
Evening & formal night packing guide
Evenings onboard offer an opportunity to dress to the nines. Many ships host formal nights, so be sure to pack:
- Elegant evening wear (cocktail dresses, dressy separates, or suits)
- Dress shoes or heels
- A stylish clutch or small evening bag
- Jewelry or accessories to elevate your look
On non-formal nights, “smart casual” is the standard — think trousers and a nice blouse or button-up shirt. Your luxury vacation deserves the glamour.
Packing for shore excursions
From walking tours of ancient ruins to zipline adventures, excursions are a major part of any cruise vacation. Here’s what to bring:
- Activewear and closed-toe shoes for adventure-focused outings
- A wide-brimmed hat and sunscreen for beach or city tours
- A compact daypack or crossbody bag for essentials
- Reusable water bottle
- Bug spray for tropical destinations
Ask our expert travel advisors about your ports of call — we’ll help you prepare for every type of experience.
Pack for the weather
Cruise itineraries span the globe, so your packing list should reflect your destination’s climate:
- For tropical cruises: lightweight clothing, sun protection, and moisture-wicking fabrics
- For cooler destinations: layers, a waterproof jacket, and warmer shoes
- For mixed-weather trips: items that can be layered or dressed up/down
We’ll help you plan ahead so the weather never catches you off guard.
Accessories
Sometimes, it’s the smallest items that make the biggest impact:
- Sunglasses (preferably polarized)
- Power strip or USB hub (non-surge protected for cruise approval)
- Travel-size toiletries
- Sea bands or motion sickness remedies
- Foldable beach bag or tote
- Reading material or e-reader
These little extras help transform your stateroom into a space that feels like home.
Don’t forget your important documents
Nothing derails a cruise vacation faster than missing documents. Double (and triple) check these essentials:
- Passport (with at least six months validity)
- The proper visas for the country you’re visiting
- Government-issued ID
- Cruise tickets and itinerary
- Travel insurance details
- COVID-19 vaccination card or health documentation (if required)
- Credit cards and some local currency for port visits
A sleek travel wallet or document organizer can make boarding day a breeze.
Ready to set sail?
Our expert travel advisors at Blue Ribbon Travel are here to make sure every detail of your luxury travel experience is flawlessly planned — from your packing list to your onboard upgrades. Let’s create your dream cruise vacation together.
Get in touch with our team today, and let’s chart your course for unforgettable moments.
Download our Ultimate Cruise Packing Checklist!
