✅ Essentials Checklist
- Formal or smart evening wear for formal nights (check your cruise line's dress code)
- Casual daywear for port days and sea days
- Swimwear × 2 (pool and beach)
- Comfortable walking shoes for port days (cobblestones are brutal in heels)
- Sunscreen SPF50+
- Seasickness medication — even if you've never been seasick (conditions vary)
- Power strip or extension lead (cabin sockets are very limited — check cruise line rules)
- Lanyard for cruise card (you'll use it constantly)
- Waterproof bag for shore excursions
- Travel insurance documents
- Formal dress or dinner jacket (for formal nights — check your line)
👕 Clothing Checklist
- Smart evening wear × 2–3 outfits
- Casual day outfits × 1 per day
- Swimwear × 2
- Cover-up for walking between pool and restaurant
- Comfortable walking shoes × 2 pairs
- Formal shoes for evenings
- Layers for sea days (ships are heavily air-conditioned)
- Light waterproof jacket for open decks
⭐ Nice to Have
- Magnetic hooks (useful in cabins — metal walls everywhere)
- Over-the-door shoe organiser for tiny cabin storage
- Highlighter pens for marking daily programmes
- Collapsible bag for shore shopping
- Binoculars for wildlife and ports
- Reusable water bottle (refillable at stations on board)
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.