When it’s time to get packing for a getaway, two things happen to me: excitement – it’s nearly holiday time, and panic – what have I forgot?! Packing for a cruise is no different, and what ends up in your bag is 95% the same as any other holiday. But are just a few extra bits I always pack (or leave out) to help make the sailing a great one.
JUst-in-case kit 🩹
I always take a few extra items in my toiletries bag just in case I need them. Being in the middle of the ocean means you can’t pop to the local pharmacy. Most ships have a shop that sells some of these items and a medical centre for more urgent care, but these common remedies are cheaper back home and weigh next to nothing:
- Painkillers
- Plasters
- Tooth repair kit
- Seasickness tablets
- Printed insurance details
Power 🔌
Cabins will have different plug sockets depending on the ship and they might not be the ones you expect. For example, not all P&O ships have British plug sockets. Many of them, though, will have both North American and European sockets. To make the most of the cabin’s plugs, I check ahead of time and take a selection to with me so I can keep all my devices charged.
Clothing 👚
There’s nothing better than the sea views but even in the height of summer and on a calm sea it can get a bit windy up on the decks! Regardless of the weather forecast, pack a lightweight cardigan, shawl or hoodie that’s easy to carry around with you so that you can enjoy the outside decks day and night – even if it gets a bit blustery or cold.
Also, as you’ll see later, on most lines irons and steamers are prohibited. Avoid packing items you know will get crinkled and require ironing to wear unless you have access to ironing services as part of the package.
Check what special nights your line has – on MSC, as an example, I pack a White Night outfit, something floral, and something with an 80s style – that way I cover most bases for the theme nights.
Little Bag/Case 👜
On embarkation, you’ll leave your suitcase in the port terminal for it to be loaded onto the ship and brought to your cabin. With some package holidays (like Marella) it can even go straight from your local airport to the room! If you have a cabin bag, make sure you pack your essentials in there for the evening, as well as valuables and a change of clothes. If I want to travel light, I skip a cabin bag and pack an extra tote to take on with me. It’s the same on disembarkation: the night before, you leave your main suitcase outside the room – so have a little one ready for those last few hours aboard the ship.
Banned! 🚫
There are many common items banned on cruise ships, mainly around fire safety. The exact items differ by cruise line – so always check before you pack – but here are some common ones:
- Iron (including travel irons)
- Steamers
- Extension cables
- Kettles
- Electric blankets
- Drones – there are many different rules so check with your line
- Smart glasses – these are increasingly being banned from use in public areas
Links to information on prohibited articles by some of the main lines:
NCL – MSC – Marella – Royal Caribbean – Virgin Voyages – Celebrity Cruises – P&O
Check if common items are not allowed in the ports you’re visiting. For example, in Barbados it’s illegal to wear any clothing or accessories with a camouflage pattern. If you are a vaper or use heated tobacco, check if they are allowed in the country as many ban them.
Now, before you pack…you need to book! Get in touch using the link below and I’ll help you find that perfect getaway to pack for…
