By Alex Carrington, Travel Editor at 247 Packing List · Last updated: ·

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Cruise Holiday Packing List

Cruise packing has unique requirements: formal nights, port-day daywear, sea days, and strict rules on what's allowed onboard. Getting the balance right between enough outfits and not over-packing is the core challenge.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is a formal night on a cruise?

Most cruise lines have 1–3 formal nights per week at sea. Dress codes vary by line — luxury lines like Cunard require black tie; mainstream lines like Royal Caribbean and P&O request smart formal (suit or cocktail dress). Check your specific cruise line's dress code before packing. Formal nights are in the main dining room — specialty restaurants and buffets have relaxed codes.

How do I avoid seasickness on a cruise?

Choose a cabin on a middle deck, midship — this is the most stable position on the ship. Pack Stugeron (cinnarizine) or wear Scopoderm patches — both require planning ahead. Sea-Bands acupressure wristbands help mild cases. Keeping your eyes on the horizon, eating light and staying hydrated all reduce symptoms. Rough weather is rare on Mediterranean and Caribbean itineraries.

Can I bring alcohol on a cruise?

Policies vary significantly by cruise line. Most mainstream lines (Royal Caribbean, NCL, MSC) prohibit bringing alcohol onboard. P&O and Cunard allow a limited amount of wine. Princess Cruises allows one bottle of wine or champagne per person. Check your specific cruise line's alcohol policy before embarkation — confiscated alcohol is held until the end of the voyage.

Alex Carrington is the travel editor at 247 Packing List, building destination and trip-type packing guides from flight-delay experience, family trips and a lot of over-packed suitcases. Every list on this site is cross-checked against the destination's actual climate and airline baggage rules before publishing.