The Ultimate Packing List for a 7-Day (or Longer) Cruise
Setting sail on a week-long cruise is one of the best ways to combine adventure, relaxation, and seamless travel. But packing? That can get overwhelming—especially when you're preparing for multiple ports, onboard activities, formal dinners, and unpredictable weather. To help you feel fully prepared (and stress-free), here’s the ultimate cruise packing list tailored for trips of seven days or more.
1. Cruise Essentials
Before you toss anything into your suitcase, make sure you have the most important items squared away:
Passport / ID (Check that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your return date.)
Before departure, be sure to confirm with your travel agent/advisor or the cruise line directly to ensure you have the correct level of documentation, such as parental permission letter for minor children, birth certificates if you don’t have a passport, etc. The list varies based on destinations and cruise lines.
Cruise documents & confirmations
Luggage tags provided by the cruise line
Credit cards & some cash for tipping and ports
Travel insurance information
Copies of important documents stored separately
2. Clothing for Every Occasion
One of the trickiest parts of cruise packing is preparing for a variety of settings—from sunbathing to dining rooms to offshore adventures. Here’s a simple and complete breakdown.
Daytime & Casual Wear
Lightweight shorts
T-shirts or tank tops
Sundresses or casual rompers
Swimwear (pack at least 2–3)
Cover-ups
Flip-flops or sandals
Evening Wear
Casual dinner outfits (7+)
Formal night attire (if your cruise line offers a formal night)
Cocktail dress or gown
Button-down shirt, slacks, optional jacket or suit
Personally, I enjoy getting all dressed up and wear a tuxedo on formal night. It’s nice to get dressed up every now and then.
Active & Specialty Clothing
Workout clothing
Sneakers or walking shoes
Excursion-specific items (e.g., water shoes, rash guard)
Light sweater or shawl (ships get chilly)
Outerwear
Lightweight rain jacket
Cardigan or hoodie for cool evenings out on deck.
3. Toiletries & Personal Care
Cruise cabins rarely stock as much as a hotel, and prices onboard can be steep, so pack what you know you’ll need.
Shampoo & conditioner (travel or refillable sizes)
Many cruise lines offer this in cabin, so you might be able to save space in your luggage by not bringing these. Confirm with your travel agent.
Body wash & lotion
Same as above.
Toothbrush/toothpaste
Deodorant
Razor
Makeup & remover
Hairbrush/hair ties
Sunscreen (reef-safe for certain destinations)
After-sun gel
Medications (plus extras)
Seasickness remedies (Bonine, Dramamine, motion bands)
Small first-aid kit (bandages, antiseptic, pain relievers)
4. Tech & Gadgets
Cruise cabins have limited outlets, and Wi-Fi may be slower than at home, so a few key items can make your life much easier.
Phone + charger
Portable charger
Multi-outlet USB hub
Waterproof phone pouch
Camera or GoPro
Headphones
E-reader or tablet
Binoculars (great for Alaska and scenic cruising)
5. Packing for Excursions
Whether you're exploring ancient ruins, zip-lining in the Caribbean, or wandering a historic port town, excursions require smart packing.
Small daypack or crossbody bag
Reusable water bottle
Reef-safe sunscreen
Hat & sunglasses
Insect repellent
Comfortable closed-toe shoes
Travel towel for beach days
Copies of port excursion confirmations
6. Cruise Cabin Must-Haves
Cruise cabins are compact, and staying organized is the secret to keeping your room tidy all week.
Magnetic hooks (cruise cabin walls are magnetic!)
Over-the-door organizer for toiletries
Pop-up laundry hamper
Ziplock bags (for snacks, wet swimsuits, etc.)
Wrinkle-release spray (irons are typically not allowed in cabins)
Nightlight (cabins get very dark)
Refillable mug or insulated cup
7. A Few “Why Didn’t I Pack That?” Items
These small items are often the MVPs of cruise travel:
Lanyard for key card
Many cruise lines sell these on board as a fun souvenir of your trip, but to save a few extra dollars, bring yours from home!
Aloe for sunburns
Dryer sheets (reduces static in the humid Caribbean air)
Small medications like antacids and cold remedies
Playing cards or small games
Highlighters (to mark activities in the daily schedule)
Lightweight tote for pool deck or buffet trips
Alcoholic beverages
Check with your travel agent as each cruise line differs in what and how much you can bring yourself on board, but this can save you $$ by bringing your own to enjoy in your stateroom.
8. Packing Strategy Tips
To maximize space and avoid wrinkles:
Roll, don’t fold clothing
Use packing cubes for organization
Pack a carry-on with day-one essentials (bathing suit, charger, medication, change of clothes)
It can be many hours after embarkation before you are reunited with your checked baggage onboard. Bring everything you think you’ll need up to bedtime on that first night on your carry-on.
Wear your bulkiest clothing on embarkation day
Leave room for souvenirs—you’ll want them!
Check with your travel agent on what the luggage limitations are for your specific cruise. They vary based on length of cruise and cruise line, and also level of service or status with each cruise line.
Final Thoughts
A 7-day or longer cruise gives you plenty of time to relax, explore, and indulge—and the right packing list ensures you’re ready for every moment. With a little planning, your suitcase can be both efficient and comprehensive, freeing you up to enjoy the best part of cruising: the getaway itself.
Bon voyage! 🚢✨
