Tropical Cruise Packing List

Packing for a cruise can be daunting! Here is a comprehensive list of what to bring and what not to bring on your next tropical cruise.

What to Bring:

Door decorations are a fun way to customize your state room. This is also a great way to find your room in case you forget the number.

Formal outfits look great in photos on deck or on the grand staircase. Cruises typically have one or two "formal nights" where guests are encouraged to dress up for evening meal. Ships offer professional portraits as an add on, so having a nice outfit can be beneficial.

Water bottles are essentials for tropical cruises. It is hot and humid in the tropics and hydration is key. Bring an empty, reusable water bottle on board.

Sun care is a must not forget. You will be in direct sun for most of your trip, so don't skip on the reef-safe sunscreen! Aloe and cool down lotion are great for your toasted skin after a long day in the sunshine. Sunglasses and brimmed hats are a great way to protect your pretty face from burns.

Motion sickness medicine is highly recommended for anyone who gets motion or sea sick. Dramamine, scopolamine patches, and Sea Bands are all fan favorites to keep the sea sickness at bay.

Small first aid kit is something I always bring. Your sandals may rub your feet wrong and cause a blister. Band-aids come in handy.

Towel clips prove to be quite useful on windy days, as well as, keeping the towel from sliding down your lounge chair.

Luggage tag holders are nice to have on your suitcase. Cruise ship luggage tags are a different size than airline luggage tags.

Jacket or sweater can add shelter from windy ocean breezes. There is always something to do on ships and nighttime air can be a bit nippy. A small jacket or sweater can be quite beneficial.

Small backpack or bag for your items when going ashore. You will want to bring a small bag for items such as cash, sunscreen, or a water bottle. This is highly recommended for ports and shore excursions.

What Not to Bring:

Hair dryers are included in your state room, so there is need to waste space in your luggage.

Towels may seem like an obvious item to pack; however, ships provide beach towels all over deck, in your state rooms, and in bins on the way to port terminals. Just make sure not to take them home, unless you want to be charged.

Clotheslines are something people consider bringing to hang dripping swimsuits. Cruise ships have already thought of this and include a pull-out clothesline in your stateroom bathroom.

Books are a favorite item to bring on cruises. I recommend one or maybe two books from home, but don't load your suitcase with them! Ships have libraries with a fantastic selection of reading materials.

Snacks or food are not needed at all on a cruise. The ships have an abundance of food options all throughout the day and night. Save the space in your suitcase.