Cruise Packing List

This core list works for most ocean cruises. Below it you’ll find add-ons for Caribbean, Alaska and Europe sailings. Remember that your checked bag may not reach your cabin until evening on embarkation day — anything you need sooner goes in your carry-on.

Core Clothing

• Casual daywear for each day (shorts, light trousers, tops)
• Swimwear (two sets, so one can dry) and a cover-up
• One or two smart outfits for dressier evenings
• Comfortable walking shoes for port days
• Sandals or flip-flops for the pool deck
• A light sweater or jacket for air-conditioned interiors and windy decks
• Sleepwear and underwear for each night, plus a spare
• Workout clothes if you plan to use the gym

Packing Variations by Region

Caribbean & Bahamas

Add: extra swimwear, rash guard, reef-safe sunscreen where required by local rules, water shoes for rocky beaches, a dry bag, light rain jacket for tropical showers.

Alaska

Add: layers (base layer, fleece, waterproof shell), warm hat and gloves for glacier viewing, waterproof walking shoes, binoculars for wildlife, and a small umbrella.

Europe

Add: comfortable broken-in shoes for cobblestones, a scarf or cover-up for churches with dress codes, a plug adapter for hotels before or after, a cross-body bag with a zip.

Packing Tips That Save Space

• Plan outfits around one or two neutral colors so pieces mix and match.
• Roll casual clothes and use packing cubes; cabin drawers are shallow.
• Wear your bulkiest shoes and jacket on travel day.
• Leave room for souvenirs, or pack a foldable tote for the trip home.
• Use travel-size toiletries and refill them from home bottles.
• Put a copy of your packing list in the suitcase to check against on the last night.