One of the best things about cruising with your family? You only have to unpack once! Your big suitcases are checked when you board and delivered to your room later—super helpful when you’ve got your hands full with kids. But since it can take a few hours for your bags to arrive, be sure to pack a carry-on with essentials like medications (in their original containers), diapers, snacks (sealed and pre-packaged), swimsuits and sunscreen, so you’re ready to enjoy the first part of your trip without waiting on luggage. If you're bringing alcohol on board (check your cruise line guidelines to see what is allowed), be sure to pack this in your carry on as well.
When it comes to diapers, formula, and wipes, pack more than you think you’ll need. Running out mid-cruise isn’t fun, and you don’t want to spend your time in port hunting for supplies or paying extra at the onboard shop. If you’re cruising with little ones, an umbrella stroller is perfect—it’s easy to maneuver through tight spaces and can be stored under the bed when not in use. If you're used to having a double stroller, keep in mind that cruise hallways are pretty narrow and a side by side stroller might not fit down the halls.
Small things can make a big difference in keeping kids happy onboard. Snacks, favorite toys, and even magnetic toys are great since the cabin walls are metal! Many families also like to decorate their stateroom doors—it’s a fun way to get kids involved in the trip and makes it easier to find your room in those long hallways.
And don’t forget to pack the right clothes! Some excursions and even onboard activities might require long pants, socks, and closed-toe shoes. UV swimwear is also a smart idea to help protect against sunburn while enjoying those sea days. Pack a sweater or something you can layer. Consider if you'd like to dress up for dinner and check your cruise lines guidelines on this. Some cruise lines have very formal dinner attire or might have certain restaurants with a specific dress code.
With a little planning, your cruise can be smooth sailing from the start. And beyond the basics, there are some unexpected must-haves that can make your trip even easier. Here are 16 things you might not have thought to pack—but definitely should!
Cruise Must-Haves You Might Not Think Of (By clicking and purchasing from one of these affiliate links, I may get a small commission at no cost to you.)
1. Magnetic Hooks – Cruise cabin walls are metal! Use these to hang hats, lanyards, wet swimsuits, or bags to keep your space tidy.
2. Hanging Closet Organizer – Storage in cruise cabins is limited. Unpack and put that suitcase away, hopefully under your bed. An organizer like this one helps you stay organized with outfits for the next day.
3. Plug Hub (Non-Surge Protected) – Most cruise cabins have limited outlets, and power strips with surge protection aren’t allowed. A power plug hub keeps all your devices charged.
4. Towel Bands – Keep your towel from flying away on breezy sea days with these towel bands.
5. Pop Up Laundry Hamper – Helps keep dirty clothes in one place instead of scattered around the tiny cabin. This is so useful if you need to do laundry during your cruise. Pro Tip - when you are packing up to leave, take any unused clothes and put them in your carry on bag and stick the whole laundry basket and dirty laundry into your empty suitcase.
6. Reusable Straws – Many cruise lines have eliminated plastic straws, and paper straws don’t always hold up well. Bring your own if you prefer a sturdier option.
7. Sea Bands or Motion Sickness Patches – Even if you don’t think you get seasick, it’s good to have these just in case.
8. Downy Wrinkle Release Spray – Irons aren’t allowed in cabins, and formal night outfits can get wrinkled in a suitcase. This spray is a lifesaver.
9. Dry/Wet Bag – Perfect for excursions where you’ll be near water.
10. Small Portable Fan – Some cabins can feel stuffy, and a small battery-operated fan can make sleeping more comfortable.
11. Reusable Water Bottles / Tumbler – The cups at the drink stations are pretty small. Take a tumbler with you and refill it with your free drink of choice. Just don't fill up your bottle directly - use the cups they provide to pour the drinks into your bottle. Pro Tip: Refill your tumblers at night to have drinks overnight or first thing in the morning.
12. Lanyard with Cardholder – Your cruise key card is your room key, onboard ID, and payment method—having a lanyard makes it easy to keep track of.
13. Nightlight or Motion-Sensor Light – Inside cabins can get pitch black, and a small nightlight helps for nighttime bathroom trips.
14. Packing Cubes – Helps maximize limited storage and makes unpacking a breeze since you can pop them straight into drawers.
15. Waterproof Phone Pouch – Ideal for pool days and excursions, so you don’t risk dropping your phone in the water.
Poo Pourri - Just trust me on this one.
Just as important as what you should bring is what you shouldn't. Be sure to check your cruise lines prohibited items list and don't bring those items!
Cruising is such a fun and easy way to travel as a family. A little planning goes a long way in making it stress-free!
When you are ready to plan your next cruise, reach out to me at Treasures Untold Travels!
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