Cruise packing list: What to Pack for a Cruise in 2020 (and what not to take with you)
Cruise packing list: What to Pack for a Cruise in 2020 (and what not to take with you)
Last updated: Jun 4, 2020 · 5 min read

Eight cruise ship essentials and 6 items better to leave at home

You’re probably already imagining yourself lounging in the sun near the poolside, a cocktail on the table next to you and a wide smile on your lips. Cruises are one of the most popular vacation activities, more and more people choosing to spend their holidays aboard a ship.
It’s easy to understand why. Cruise trips feel like a perfect blend between a SPA holiday, an exotic destination vacation and a fun-park experience for adults. So what to pack for such a mix? First of all, consider what the weather will be like, how long your cruise will actually be and what activities do you have planned – any fancy dinners or training sessions? Here are our cruise packing list tips on what you definitely have to have with you and what you should rather leave at home.

What to pack:

1. Power adapter

Cruise ships have different models of power outlets on board and it might not be the same as in your country. To make sure you’re not left with a dead phone, unable to snap all those amazing pictured of your holiday, be sure to buy a universal power adapter.

2. Medicine

This goes even for those who don’t have any specific health concerns. Put together a small medicine bag with some essentials: motion sickness pills, plasters, something in case you get an upset stomach, nasty cough or just bad cold. It’s better to have them with you, as you don’t how readily available they are on-board or in the cities where you will make your stops.

3. Power bank and multi outlet USB charger

Most of us have a gadget for basically everything. We’re so used to being able to easily charge them that we don’t even second-guess how available electricity will be. But if you’re going on a cruise with another person and each of you has a smart phone, tablet, e-reader and smart watch, the 2-4 power outlets you will find in your cabin might prove insufficient. /here’s where a multi-outlet USB charger might come in hand. As for a power bank, considering the amount of beautiful moments you’ll want to catch on camera, it’s easy to assume you phone or camera’s battery will be drained quite quickly. With a power bank, you’ll be camera-ready all the time.

4. Reusable coffee mug

Not only is it a more environmentally friendly option, but it will also save your fingers from getting burned by spilled coffee as you try to carefully climb up or down the stairs with your mug.

5. Zip bags

They come in a variety of sizes, making them incredibly versatile. They can work as a perfect protection for your electronics, a handy bag to keep some snacks or, in case of the larger ones, a perfect laundry basket.

6. Bug repellent

Whether a spray, lotion or bracelet, a bug repellent will surely save you a lot of anguish no matter where you go on holiday, so don’t forget to pack this vacation essential.

7. A jacket or windbreaker

The forecast says a full week of sun, zero chance of rain and temperatures warm enough that you will even forget the concept of winter. But Murphy’s laws never rest. Although the forecast might seem favorable, it can’t really guarantee what it’ll be like at sea. So although you think you won’t need it, pack that jacket. Better safe than sorry.

8. Earplugs or noise-cancelling headphones

People live in really close quarters to each other on a cruise ship. You never know if your cabin will be right close to a really busy part of the deck or you’ll be neighbors with someone who snores ungodly loud. Better pack some earplugs or noise-cancelling headphones, just in case.

Alright, now that you know what to take with you, what are some things that it makes more sense to leave behind. We’re glad you asked.

What not to pack:

1. Too many clothes

This is a common mistake we all make on vacation, regardless if on a cruise ship or not. You most likely will not need an outfit for each day of your ship, so it would just be an extra-headache having to lug it around. Plus, it’s likely you’ll find a cleaner’s service on-board or self-service washing machines and dryers.

2. Towels

All cruise ship cabins are equipped with towels and staff is generally happy to offer you some extra ones, if you ask for them.

3. Beer or spirits

You might think this is a clever way of not spending too much money on overpriced drinks on board. However staff will most likely confiscate the bottles and throw them away. Even so, some companies allow a bottle of wine per person, so not all is lost.

4. Power strip

You might think the number of power outlets in your cabin will not be enough, what with all the gadgets you plan on taking with you. However cruise ships are very strict with not allowing power strips on boards, due to the very serious risk of fire. It’s better to have a power bank with from which to recharge your smaller electronics.

5. Coat hangers

This is something that cruise staff can bring more of, in case the ones you find in your cabin are not enough.

6. Hair dryer or clothes iron

First of all, they take up way too much space. Second, you’ll probably find a hairdryer in your cabin, and you’re better off buying a wrinkle release spray or making your own at home.

Going on holiday is more relaxing when your prepared for any situation. However, there’s thinking smart and then there’s over thinking. Check back in with us for more travel tips and info. We make sure that there’s nothing left for you to do but to enjoy yourselves.