Embarking on a cruise is an exhilarating adventure that begins the moment you start packing. Whether you’re setting sail to the sun-drenched Mediterranean or exploring the icy beauty of the Norwegian fjords, choosing the items to pack for a cruise carry-on can make a world of difference to your holiday experience.
In this blog, we’ll guide you through what to pack for a cruise carry-on, ensuring you have everything you need when you arrive on board your ship. From must-have documents to those just-in-case items that are often overlooked, this blog will help make packing for a cruise easy and hassle-free.
What is considered a carry-on on a cruise?
A common question from many first-time cruise guests is can you take hand luggage on a cruise? And the answer is absolutely! How you carry your luggage onto a cruise ship is much like when you board a plane, but with a few nuances tailored to sea travel. One notable difference is that hand luggage is referred to as a cruise carry-on.
When you arrive at the cruise terminal, you usually leave your main luggage, like large suitcases, with the porters. The porters transport this luggage on board, leaving you free to board the ship without having heavy bags to carry.
While this service is really helpful, it often takes some time for your luggage to be delivered to your cabin, and that’s why you need a cruise carry-on.
Typically, your cruise carry-on is a compact bag you can easily take on board and have to hand as you move around the ship. This bag is essential for holding items you might need immediate access to upon boarding or in the first few hours in case your checked luggage arrives late.
How to pack for a cruise carry-on
So, what do you carry around on a cruise ship in this bag? Think documents, medications, a change of clothes, and some entertainment—essentials that ensure comfort and convenience as you start your voyage.
Let’s take a closer look at how to pack for a cruise carry-on and the key items you’ll need:
Ten essential items for your cruise carry-on bag packing list
1) Travel documents and ID
Ensure your passport, tickets or boarding passes, and any visa paperwork are easily accessible and ready for essential checks before boarding. It’s also wise to keep a copy of your travel insurance details and emergency contacts in the same place.
2) Medication
When packing for a cruise, always carry any prescribed medications in your carry-on to avoid any emergencies should your checked luggage be delayed. It’s also a good idea to include a small first-aid kit that contains items such as paracetamol or pain relievers, seasickness tablets, and any over-the-counter medication you frequently use.
3) Sunscreen and sunglasses
Remember to have sunscreen and sunglasses in your cruise carry-on, particularly if you are sailing to a sunny destination or expect to spend lots of time on deck.
Sunscreen is crucial to protect against strong UV rays, especially near the water where sunlight is reflected. You don’t want to get sunburnt and ruin your holiday before it’s even begun! Pair your skin protection with UV-protective sunglasses to safeguard your eyes against glare and enhance your comfort in sun-soaked locations.
4) Toiletries
When looking at things to pack for a cruise, toiletries typically go in your main suitcase, particularly if you are flying to your embarkation port and must adhere to hand luggage restrictions. However, it is worth packing some travel-sized toiletries (that meet regulations) in your cruise carry-on in case you want to freshen up when you arrive on the ship after a long journey.
Things like shampoo, conditioner, toothpaste, and deodorant are useful to have with you. Also, if you’re travelling with babies or young children, remember to include baby wipes, nappies and nappy cream.
5) Cash and wallet
Pack your wallet in your cruise carry-on with your credit and debit cards and a small amount of cash. While many transactions on board are generally cashless, having some local currency is helpful for purchases in case there are issues with card payment machines or cash points.
6) Electronics and chargers
Keep your electronics, such as your phone, tablet, laptop and headphones, along with their chargers, in your cruise carry-on. It’s always advisable to have valuables like these with you, but it also means you’re ready to take some great snaps of any early moments of your trip.
Remember the corresponding chargers, too. Journeys can be long, and you want to avoid reaching for your device only to find it’s out of battery and you cannot charge it.
7) Children’s entertainment essentials
Keeping children entertained on lengthy journeys can be challenging. To keep them entertained during boarding and any downtime on the ship, be sure to add items like colouring books, small toys, or electronic devices to your cruise carry-on bag packing list.
8) Valuables
Always keep expensive jewellery, watches, or other high-value items in your carry-on to avoid theft or loss during luggage handling.
9) Change of clothes
A change of clothes is handy to have if your luggage is delayed. You may want to freshen up or wear something more appropriate for your cruise activities.
For example, perhaps pack something suitable for dinner that adheres to any onboard dress codes. Just remember to choose items that don’t crease easily. You’ll want to avoid seeking out an iron on your first day!
10) Swimsuit and flip-flops
When packing for a cruise, put your swimsuit and flip-flops in your carry-on, and you can switch seamlessly into relaxation mode.
Whether it’s taking a refreshing dip in the ship’s pool or lounging on the sundeck, these essentials ensure you’re ready to enjoy the water amenities as soon as you board.
As you prepare to embark on an unforgettable cruise adventure, take a moment to review your cruise carry-on bag packing list to ensure a smooth start to your holiday. When packing for a cruise, also remember to double-check the weight and size of your carry-on to meet the cruise line’s specifications. With this preparation, you’ll be sure to have an efficient boarding experience and enjoy a fantastic start to your cruise!
