Are you going on a cruise for the first time and have already packed half of your room? Your suitcase barely closes, but the anxiety won't go away? Let’s go over what you really need on board and what will just take up space in your luggage.

Documents & Money

The most important things are your documents. Without a passport, tickets, and medical insurance, you won’t even be allowed to step onto the ship. It may seem obvious, but trust us — accidents happen. Also, it's a good idea to keep copies of all your documents on your phone for peace of mind.

As for money, cruises operate on a cashless system, but you might need some cash at ports. Bring a small amount of the local currency for the countries you’ll be visiting to avoid unnecessary exchange fees.

Clothing

A cruise is much more than just lounging by the pool. Expect themed evenings, excursions, and deck strolls. So, take another look at your wardrobe. In addition to swimsuits, bring comfortable shoes for active outings, lightweight clothing for excursions, and something warmer for evening gatherings.

Hygiene & Personal Care

Cruise ships have all the essentials, but onboard shop prices can be sky-high. That’s why it’s best to bring your hygiene products from home. The usual checklist applies: toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, and deodorant. Sunscreen is a must — even if you rarely get sunburned, the strong sun at sea can be deceiving.

Don’t forget a first aid kit if you want to spend your vacation on the deck instead of in your cabin. Pack motion sickness remedies, antiseptics, band-aids, pain relievers, and allergy medication — just in case.

Gadgets & Electronics

What could be worse than a dead phone battery when you need to capture a breathtaking sunset? To avoid such moments, make sure to bring chargers, a power bank, and headphones. If you want top-notch photos, pack a camera or an action cam.

Internet on board can be expensive and slow. To stay entertained, download your favorite movies, books, or music in advance. Reading on the deck with an ocean view is just as magical as it looks in the movies.

Handy Extras

Some small items can make your trip much more comfortable. A compact backpack for excursions, a light blanket for chilly evenings, wet wipes, and hand sanitizer are always useful. Surprisingly, a small sewing kit can come in handy, too.

Final Thoughts

If you forget something — don’t worry! Most things can be found on the ship or bought at port stops. But hopefully, this checklist will help you minimize those moments. Pack smart and get ready for the best vacation of your life!