Packing for a cruise can be slightly complicated. Cruise cabins are usually smaller than hotel rooms, and the storage space is quite limited.
At the same time, cruises require different outfits. Something comfortable for when you go ashore to explore, something formal for elegant nights, and in some cases, even specific clothes for themed parties that might be held on board.
On top of all that, you also need to follow the cruise line’s baggage rules, so you can see how things might get a little confusing. That’s why, in this article, we’ll go over 10 luggage rules and practical tips to make your trip smooth and hassle-free from the moment you board.
Pack Reasonably
Cruise lines don’t charge for checked bags like airlines do. But that doesn’t mean you should bring your whole closet. Remember, cabin storage is limited.
For a weeklong cruise, one medium-sized suitcase per person is usually enough. For shorter trips or weekends, opt for a small one.
Think “less is more” when packing. Clothes can be mixed and matched, and you’ll probably rewear some items anyway.
Plus, all cruise lines offer laundry services, so you don’t have to pack a different outfit for every single day.
Carry-On Is Non-Negotiable
Your checked luggage could take hours to make it to your cabin after you board. That’s why a carry-on with all your essentials is a must.
Things you need in your carry-on include your IDs, cash/cards, travel documents, medications, phone chargers, a change of clothes, and any valuables you can’t afford to lose.
Basically, pack it like your trip depends on it, because for those first few hours, it kind of does.
Remember a Foldable Bag
I’m sure you’ll be picking up some souvenirs during your cruise.
Instead of stressing about how to squeeze everything into your luggage, pack a foldable duffel bag. It takes up almost no space when tucked away and gives you an extra bag to use if your suitcase gets too full.
It could also be a perfect choice if you buy something fragile and don’t want to risk it breaking in your suitcase. In this case, it’s always better to keep it with you.
Stick to the Size Limits
Of course, before you leave, make sure to check the baggage rules and limits for your cruise line. Here are the latest guidelines for the most popular cruise companies.
MSC Cruises
Up to 2 suitcases per person, each not exceeding 90 x 75 x 43 cm and 23 kg. Up to 2 bags per person, each not exceeding 56 x 45 x 25 cm and 23 kg.
There’s also a cabin limit. A maximum of 100 kg and/or 8 pieces per cabin.
Royal Caribbean
No strict limits; guests may bring a reasonable amount of personal property. Carry-on luggage must fit through X-ray machines. Their size could change between ports, but it’s usually similar to those at airport security checkpoints.
Carnival Cruise Line
No strict limits, but Carnival suggests one bag per person for 3–5 night cruises and two bags per person for cruises 6 days or longer. Each bag should not exceed 16 inches high by 24 inches wide (length not specified). Each bag should not exceed 50 pounds (23 kg).
In addition, Carnival recommends not locking the luggage before turning it over to the porters in order to avoid any inconvenience or delay in delivering them to your stateroom
Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL)
Up to 2 pieces per person for checked luggage, each not exceeding 50 pounds (22kg). Norwegian strongly recommends bringing a small bag with essentials such as documents and medications.
Know What You Can and Can’t Bring
Many lines allow you to bring a small amount of alcohol during embarkation, provided you’re of drinking age. Typically, that means one unopened 750-ml bottle of wine or champagne in your carry-on.
Disney Cruise Line is more generous. You can bring up two sealed bottles (wine or champagne) or six 12-ounce beers.
Some lines, like MSC and Costa Cruises, don’t allow any outside alcohol at all. To be sure, check your cruise line’s alcohol policy in advance.
And don’t even think about sneaking anything prohibited onboard. Cruise security does checks, and it’s not worth the risk of having your stuff confiscated, or worse, being denied boarding.
Items you should never bring include: weapons or ammunition, anything flammable (candles, incense, thinners, etc.) or heating devices (hair dryers, kettles, irons, steamers).
When in doubt, review your cruise line’s banned items and remember to check the 10 new things that are banned on cruise ships (2025).
Pack for Your Destination
It’s easy to get caught up in planning what to wear on the ship, but don’t forget, you’re also getting off that ship.
So, tailor your wardrobe to your itinerary. A 7-day Caribbean cruise is a very different packing situation than a 7-day trip to Alaska or the Mediterranean.
Flip-flops are great for the beach, but if your excursions involve walking tours or hikes, you’ll definitely want comfortable walking shoes.
Also, be mindful of dress codes when visiting religious or cultural sites. You’ll be expected to wear something modest, with your shoulders and knees covered. For that, a lightweight scarf or shawl is the perfect accessory to keep on hand.
And keep in mind, weather can be pretty unpredictable, even in the tropics. Toss in a compact rain jacket and a few layers, just in case.
For more in-depth details, check the best Alaska cruise outfits and packing tips, and the best Caribbean cruise outfit ideas and packing tips.
Plan for Formal Nights
Most mainstream cruises include at least one “elegant” night, a fun excuse to dress up a little.
Gala nights on Cunard, Silversea, or other ultra-luxury lines are more formal, with evening gowns and full suits being the standard.
But for the most popular cruise lines like Carnival and Royal Caribbean, you can go with something more low-key if dressing up isn’t really your thing. For example, a simple evening dress for women and a nice shirt for men will do just fine.
If you enjoy them, you can also take part in the themed nights. You’ll find the updated list in the articles below:
Tag Your Bags Properly
After online check-in, cruise lines provide printable luggage tags with your cabin and deck number. The problem is, these paper tags can tear easily.
To avoid that, secure them in plastic tag holders. You can easily find them on Amazon, I’ll leave the button below.
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Leave the Towels and Hair Dryer at Home
Cruise lines already provide towels (in staterooms and pool decks), as well as a hair dryer and some basic toiletries. So why waste luggage space packing extras?
Towels, particularly, are in endless supply, and you can always swap your used ones for fresh ones anytime. Just ask your cabin steward, and remember that there are 10 things that your cabin steward can bring for free on a cruise.
You can also borrow towels for beach days; just remember to check them back in afterward to avoid unexpected charges.
Use Packing Cubes
If you haven’t tried packing cubes yet, you’re seriously missing out. They keep your suitcase neat, organized, and best of all, efficient.
You can sort your stuff by category (like toiletries, tops, or underwear) or by daily outfit, whatever works for you.
Unpacking is also simpler. Just take the cubes from your suitcase and pop them straight into drawers or shelves.
I always recommended the Bagsmart ones. I bought them a few years ago and they are still perfect after many trips. They have mesh tops so you can see what’s inside without opening them all.
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Double-Check Everything
Even the most experienced cruisers occasionally forget something (guilty!). The most commonly forgotten items? Sunglasses, medications, and phone chargers, things you really don’t want to be without.
Onboard, they can be ridiculously overpriced, if you can even find them. So, make a checklist before you pack, and run through it one last time before zipping up your bag.
To avoid any mistakes, have a look at the list of 20 cruise essentials you should always bring on a cruise and the 43 things everyone forgets to pack for a cruise.
CRUISE ESSENTIALS 2025
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OUR PICK
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