What Should I Pack For My First Cruise

What To Pack For Your First Cruise.

Packing for your first cruise can be a little stressful for several different reasons. For one thing, you've never done it before, so it's hard to know what to expect, plus if you forget something important, it's a little hard to replace it when you're out in the middle of the ocean. In an emergency, some items can be replaced from the ship's gift shop, but you can also expect to pay extra when you do so because cruise ship gifts are never cheap except maybe your last day on the ship when they start running some sales.

But not to worry, this list of what to pack for a cruise will have you all set in time with everything that you need to pack for a cruise. I personally prefer to pack light and mix and match items so that I don't end up lugging around a lot of heavy luggage. Most cruise lines do allow each passenger to bring two suitcases in addition to their carry-on so this is just a matter of personal preference.


1. A passport or birth certificate: It's always best to check with your cruise line, but in some cases, you may be able to use your birth certificate in place of a passport. This may be helpful if you don't have time to get a passport, but in many cases, a passport is handier, and there are some places that you can't go with a birth certificate.

2. A carry on bag: In most cases, you won't be able to go to your room right away, so you're going to want a carry on for your swimsuit and other needed items.

3. A small container of laundry detergent: About halfway through the cruise, I either send my dirty items to the laundry or save a little money and do it myself. Here's a little tip for you, the last time that I sent my laundry out some of it came back shrunk, and my favorite shirt had holes in it.

4. A phone charger and power strip: Outlets are a little scarce in cruise ship cabins, especially when everyone has a smartphone to charge, so you're going to want a power strip.

5. Sunscreen and lip balm:

6. Medications for motion sickness:

7. Your own toiletries: Like shampoo, lotion, deodorant, etc.

8. Shoes: A good pair of walking shoes, sandals for the beach and pool, and a pair of dress shoes.

9. An underwater camera:

10. Clothing:  Two swimsuits, a coverup, 2 pairs of capris, 3 pairs of shorts, 5-6 cute tops, 2 sundresses, and two dressy outfits.