Are you planning to go on a cruise in 2023? If so, you might be wondering what to pack for your trip. Cruises are a great way to explore different destinations, enjoy various activities, and relax on board. However, they also have some specific requirements and limitations when it comes to packing. You need to consider the weather, the dress code, the luggage size and weight, and the security regulations of your cruise line.

To help you prepare for your cruise, we have compiled a list of 35 essentials that you should pack for your 2023 cruise. These items will help you make the most of your cruise experience, whether you are sailing in the Caribbean, the Mediterranean, or anywhere else in the world.

Cruise Packing List: 35 Essentials for Your 2023 Cruise

1. Passport and travel documents: You will need a valid passport and any other travel documents required by your cruise line and the countries you are visiting. Make sure to check the expiration date of your passport and renew it if necessary. You should also make copies of your passport and other documents and store them in a safe place, such as your email or cloud storage.
2. Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is a must-have for any trip, especially a cruise. It can cover you for unexpected events such as medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost or delayed baggage, and more. You can compare and buy travel insurance online from various providers, or check with your credit card company or travel agent if they offer any coverage.
3. Cruise confirmation and boarding pass: You will need to print out your cruise confirmation and boarding pass from your cruise line’s website or app. These documents will contain important information such as your booking number, cabin number, embarkation time, and port address. You will also need to complete the online check-in process before your cruise to avoid long lines at the terminal.
4. Luggage tags: Your cruise line will provide you with luggage tags that you need to attach to your bags before you drop them off at the port. These tags will help the crew identify and deliver your bags to your cabin. You can also use your own luggage tags with your name and contact information for extra security.
5. Carry-on bag: You should pack a carry-on bag with the essentials that you will need for the first day of your cruise, such as your passport, travel documents, medications, valuables, toiletries, change of clothes, swimsuit, sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, etc. Your checked bags might take some time to arrive at your cabin, so having a carry-on bag will ensure that you have everything you need until then.
6. Clothing: The clothing you pack for your cruise will depend on the destination, the season, and the activities you plan to do. However, some general tips are:

• Pack light and versatile clothing that you can mix and match and layer according to the weather.
• Pack clothing that is appropriate for the dress code of your cruise line. Most cruises have casual, smart casual, and formal nights. Check with your cruise line for specific guidelines and expectations.
• Pack clothing that is suitable for the shore excursions you want to do. For example, if you are going to visit religious sites or museums, you might need to cover your shoulders and knees. If you are going to do water sports or hiking, you might need waterproof or sturdy shoes.
• Pack clothing that is comfortable and breathable. Avoid fabrics that wrinkle easily or require dry cleaning.
• Pack clothing that is colorful and fun. Cruises are a great opportunity to express your personality and style.

7. Shoes: Shoes can take up a lot of space in your luggage, so try to limit the number of pairs you bring. Ideally, you should pack three pairs of shoes: one pair of comfortable walking shoes for shore excursions and onboard activities; one pair of sandals or flip-flops for the pool deck and beach; and one pair of dress shoes for formal nights and dining.
8. Accessories: Accessories can add some flair to your outfits and make them more versatile. You can pack some jewelry, scarves, belts, hats, sunglasses, etc., to complement your clothing. However, avoid bringing expensive or sentimental items that might get lost or stolen on board or ashore.
9. Toiletries: Most cruise lines provide basic toiletries such as soap, shampoo, conditioner, lotion, etc., in your cabin bathroom. However, if you have any personal preferences or special needs, you might want to bring your own toiletries. Some items that you might want to pack are:

• Toothbrush
• Toothpaste
• Dental floss
• Mouthwash
• Deodorant
• Razor
• Shaving cream
• Hairbrush
• Comb
• Hair ties
• Hair products
• Makeup
• Makeup remover
• Cotton pads
• Q-tips
• Nail clippers
• Nail file
• Tweezers
• Feminine hygiene products
• Contact lenses and solution
• Glasses and case

10. Medications: If you take any prescription or over-the-counter medications, you should pack them in their original containers with the labels and instructions. You should also bring a copy of your prescription and a letter from your doctor explaining the purpose and dosage of your medications. Some medications that you might want to pack are:

• Pain relievers
• Anti-inflammatory drugs
• Antihistamines
• Decongestants
• Cough drops
• Antacids
• Anti-diarrhea pills
• Motion sickness pills or patches
• Band-aids
• Antibiotic ointment
• Hydrocortisone cream
• Sunburn relief gel

11. Sunscreen: Sunscreen is essential for any cruise, especially if you are going to sunny or tropical destinations. You should pack sunscreen with a high SPF and broad-spectrum protection that is water-resistant and suitable for your skin type. You should also reapply sunscreen frequently throughout the day, especially after swimming or sweating.
12. Insect repellent: Insect repellent can help you avoid mosquito bites and other insect-related diseases, especially if you are going to destinations with a high risk of malaria, dengue, Zika, etc. You should pack an insect repellent that contains DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus, and apply it as directed on the label.
13. Hand sanitizer: Hand sanitizer can help you keep your hands clean and prevent the spread of germs on board and ashore. You should pack a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol and use it frequently, especially before eating or touching your face.
14. Face masks: Face masks can help you protect yourself and others from respiratory infections, especially in crowded or enclosed spaces. You should pack enough face masks for the duration of your cruise and follow the guidelines of your cruise line and the local authorities regarding their use.
15. Water bottle: A reusable water bottle can help you stay hydrated and save money on bottled water on board and ashore. You should pack a water bottle that is leak-proof, durable, and easy to clean. You can fill it up with tap water from your cabin or from the water stations on board.
16. Snacks: Snacks can help you curb your hunger and cravings between meals or when you are on shore excursions. You should pack some snacks that are healthy, filling, and easy to carry, such as nuts, granola bars, dried fruits, etc. However, be aware of the customs regulations of the countries you are visiting and avoid bringing any fresh fruits, vegetables, meats, cheeses, etc., that might be prohibited or restricted.
17. Electronics: Electronics can help you stay connected, entertained, and informed on your cruise. Some electronics that you might want to pack are:

• Smartphone: Your smartphone can help you communicate with your family and friends, take photos and videos, access the internet, use apps, etc., on your cruise. However, be aware of the roaming charges and data plans of your carrier and the cruise line. You might want to switch to airplane mode or turn off your data when you are not using it.
• Charger: Your charger can help you keep your smartphone and other electronics powered up on your cruise. You should pack a charger that is compatible with the outlets on board and ashore. You might also want to pack a power bank or a portable charger for extra backup.
• Adapter: An adapter can help you plug in your charger and other electronics into different types of outlets on board and ashore. You should pack an adapter that is universal or suitable for the countries you are visiting.
• Headphones: Headphones can help you listen to music, podcasts, audiobooks, etc., on your cruise without disturbing others. You should pack headphones that are comfortable, noise-canceling, and wireless if possible.
• Tablet or laptop: A tablet or laptop can help you watch movies, play games, read books, work, etc., on your cruise. You should pack a tablet or laptop that is lightweight, durable, and has enough battery life and storage space for your needs.
• E-reader: An e-reader can help you read books on your cruise without carrying heavy or bulky books. You should pack an e-reader that is waterproof, glare-free, and has enough battery life and storage space for your books.
• Camera: A camera can help you capture the memories of your cruise in high-quality photos and videos. You should pack a camera that is waterproof, shockproof, zoomable, and has enough battery life and memory cards for your shots.

18. Entertainment: Entertainment can help you have fun and relax on your cruise. Some entertainment items that you might want to pack are:
    • Books: Books can help you enjoy some quiet time on your cruise, whether you are in your cabin, on the pool deck, or in the library. You can pack some books that interest you, or download them on your e-reader or tablet.
    • Magazines: Magazines can help you catch up on the latest news, trends, and gossip on your cruise. You can pack some magazines that appeal to you, or buy them on board or ashore.
    • Games: Games can help you have fun and bond with your travel companions on your cruise. You can pack some games that are portable, easy to play, and suitable for all ages, such as cards, dice, dominoes, etc.
    • Puzzles: Puzzles can help you challenge your mind and pass the time on your cruise. You can pack some puzzles that are compact, engaging, and solvable, such as crossword puzzles, sudoku puzzles, word search puzzles, etc.
    • Journal: A journal can help you record your thoughts and feelings on your cruise. You can pack a journal that is attractive, durable and has enough pages for your entries. You can also pack some pens, pencils, stickers, etc., to decorate your journal.

    
    
19. Swimsuit: A swimsuit is a must-have for any cruise, as you will likely spend some time in the pools, hot tubs, water slides, or beaches. You should pack a swimsuit that fits you well, flatters your body type, and suits your style. You might also want to pack more than one swimsuit so that you have a backup in case one gets wet or dirty.
20. Cover-up: A cover-up can help you transition from the pool or beach to the other areas of the ship or shore. You should pack a cover-up that is lightweight, easy to put on and take off and matches your swimsuit. You can choose from various types of cover-ups such as sarongs, kaftans, tunics, dresses, etc.
21. Towel: A towel can help you dry off after swimming or sunbathing on your cruise. Most cruise lines provide towels for the pool and beach areas, but you might want to pack your own towel if you prefer a different size, color, or quality. You can also use your towel as a blanket, a pillow, or a mat.
22. Sunglasses: Sunglasses can help you protect your eyes from the sun and glare on your cruise. You should pack sunglasses that have UV protection and polarized lenses that reduce the reflection of light from water and other surfaces. You should also pack sunglasses that fit you well and suit your face shape and style.
23. Hat: A hat can help you shield your head and face from the sun and heat on your cruise. You should pack a hat that has a wide brim that covers your ears and neck. You should also pack a hat that is breathable, foldable, and adjustable for comfort and convenience.
24. Beach bag: A beach bag can help you carry your essentials for the pool or beach on your cruise. You should pack a beach bag that is spacious enough to fit your items such as sunscreen, water bottle, towel, book, etc. You should also pack a beach bag that is waterproof, durable, and easy to clean.
25. Formal wear: Formal wear is required for some nights on most cruises, depending on the dress code of your cruise line. You should pack formal wear that is elegant, comfortable, and appropriate for the occasion. Some examples of formal wear are:
• For men: A suit or tuxedo with a shirt, tie or bow tie, dress shoes, and socks.
• For women: A cocktail dress or evening gown with heels or flats, jewelry, and accessories.
26. Casual wear: Casual wear is suitable for most days and nights on most cruises, depending on the dress code of your cruise line. You should pack casual wear that is comfortable, practical, and stylish. Some examples of casual wear are:
    • For men: Jeans, khakis, shorts, T-shirts, polo shirts, sweaters, jackets, sneakers, or sandals.
    • For women: Jeans, skirts, dresses, shorts, tops, cardigans, jackets, sneakers, or sandals.
27. Smart casual wear: Smart casual wear is required for some nights on most cruises, depending on the dress code of your cruise line. You should pack smart casual wear that is neat, refined, and sophisticated. Some examples of smart casual wear are:
• For men: Slacks or chinos with a shirt, sweater or blazer, dress shoes, or loafers.
• For women: Pants or skirts with a blouse, sweater or blazer, heels or flats.
28. Workout clothes: Workout clothes are optional for your cruise, but you might want to pack them if you plan to use the gym, join fitness classes, or do some sports on board or ashore. You should pack workout clothes that are breathable, stretchy, and moisture-wicking. You should also pack workout shoes that are supportive and comfortable.
29. Sleepwear: Sleepwear is essential for your cruise, as you will need to rest and recharge after a long day of fun and adventure. You should pack sleepwear that is cozy, soft, and suitable for the temperature of your cabin. You can choose from various types of sleepwear such as pajamas, nightgowns, robes, etc.
30. Underwear: Underwear is also essential for your cruise, as you will need to change it every day for hygiene and comfort. You should pack enough underwear for the duration of your cruise plus a few extra pairs in case of emergencies. You should also pack underwear that is comfortable, breathable, and easy to wash and dry.
31. Laundry supplies: Laundry supplies are optional for your cruise, but you might want to pack them if you want to save space in your luggage or avoid the laundry fees on board. You can pack some laundry supplies such as detergent pods, stain remover wipes, dryer sheets, etc., to wash and dry your clothes in the self-service laundry rooms or in your cabin sink.
32. Ziplock bags: Ziplock bags are useful for your cruise, as they can help you organize your items and protect them from water and dirt. You can use ziplock bags to store your toiletries, medications, snacks, electronics, etc., in your luggage or carry-on bag. You can also use ziplock bags to store your wet swimsuits or dirty clothes until you wash them.
33. Daypack: A daypack is handy for your cruise, as it can help you carry your essentials for shore excursions or onboard activities. You should pack a daypack that is lightweight, spacious, and secure. You can choose from various types of daypacks such as backpacks, crossbody bags, tote bags, etc. 
34. Binoculars: Binoculars are optional for your cruise, but you might want to pack them if you want to enjoy the views of the ocean, the wildlife, or the landmarks. You should pack binoculars that are compact, powerful, and waterproof. You should also pack a binocular case or strap to protect and carry them. 
35. Cash: Cash is important for your cruise, as you will need it to tip the crew, buy souvenirs, pay for taxis, etc. You should pack enough cash in the currency of your cruise line and the countries you are visiting. You should also pack some small bills and coins for convenience. You can exchange your cash at the airport, the port, or the ship’s currency exchange desk.