10 Cruise Packing Mistakes to Avoid

Packing for a cruise can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re heading to destinations such as the Caribbean or Alaska. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned traveler, making packing mistakes can lead to unnecessary stress, extra costs, and even ruined experiences.

I cruise a lot and believe me I have made all of these mistakes. So, to help you on your next cruise, I have put together a list of 10 common cruise packing mistakes and how you should avoid them.

Be sure to download my free cruise packing checklist as well. I put this together as I kept overpacking and forgetting things on my cruises. You will find a lot of helpful tips and information here in this 30-page Ultimate Cruise Packing Checklist.

Plus, when you click the link and sign up to receive your free downloads, you will be sent to another page with more helpful tips and information for planning your cruise. Now, let's dive into the common packing mistakes you should avoid!

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1. Overpacking

Mistake: Bringing too much luggage can lead to cramped cabin space and hefty baggage fees.

Solution: Stick to a wardrobe with versatile pieces that can be mixed and matched. Use packing cubes to maximize space and keep items organized.

Tip: I like to use my packing cubes to hold my dirty laundry instead of bringing a pop-up hamper. This will help you not overpack to many cruise travel hacking essentials.

2. Forgetting Travel Documents

Mistake: Leaving your passport, boarding passes, or vaccination records at home can derail your trip before it even starts.

Solution: Create a travel document checklist and keep all essentials in a secure, easily accessible folder or pouch.

Tip: You will want to make sure you have your travel documents in your cruise carry-on bag. When checking your bags at the port they usually ask to make sure you have your documents, but just in case make sure you always have your documents on your and don't check them in your luggage.

3. Ignoring Destination-Specific Needs

Mistake: Packing the same items for every cruise, regardless of the destination.

Solution: Research your destination’s climate and activities. For the Caribbean, you will want to pack lightweight clothing, sunscreen, and swimwear. For Alaska, bring layers, waterproof gear, and sturdy shoes.

Tip: Many people don't mention these two things to bring: For the Caribbean, pack a lightweight sweater or jacket for walking around the ship at night or if it's rainy weather. For Alaska, pack bug repellent - especially during peak season, you will thank me later.

4. Skipping Formal Wear

Mistake: Assuming casual attire is acceptable for all cruise events, including formal nights.

Solution: Check your cruise line’s dress code and pack at least one formal outfit. A cocktail dress or suit doesn’t take up much space but ensures you’re prepared for elegant dinners.

Tip: 7-day cruises typically have two formal nights. You don't have to participate by dressing up, but if you want to head to the main dining room or specialty dining, you might have a dress code that night.

5. Overlooking Medication and First Aid

Mistake: Forgetting prescription medications or basic first-aid supplies can lead to discomfort or emergencies. You don't want to have to purchase headache medication or even a Band-Aid on the ship because believe me the cost is a lot higher than in your local drug store.

Solution: Pack a small first-aid kit with bandages, pain relievers, and motion sickness remedies. Bring extra prescription medications in their original containers.

Tip: Always have motion sickness meds with you. You never know if your cruise will run into some heavy weather causing a little bit of nausea. Plus, in your cruise carry-on bag, you should always have any important medication packed to keep with you.

6. Not Packing for Sea Days

Mistake: Focusing solely on port days and forgetting about activities for sea days.

Solution: Bring books, games, or a tablet loaded with movies for relaxation. Don’t forget workout clothes if you plan to use the gym or participate in fitness classes.

Tip: Many cruise lines offer extra activities and shows on sea days. Check your cruise line's app to see what activities they will be offering and be sure to book in advance if your cruise line offers that. For instance, if cruising on Royal Caribbean, you will want to book your shows and activities in advance.

7. Overloading on Toiletries

Mistake: Bringing full-sized toiletries that take up valuable space. While you most likely will not be doing this if you are flying in. If you are driving to your cruise port you can bring full-sized toiletries as the cruise ship does not regulate the size of your toiletries. However, the bathrooms in your cabin are small and it can take up a lot of room.

Solution: Use travel-sized containers or purchase toiletries onboard (purchasing toiletries onboard is an option but remember it will cost more). Most cruise ships provide shampoo, conditioner, and body wash for your convenience as well.

Tip: I like to pack all of my toiletry essentials in my travel toiletry hanging bag. This bag helps me to not overpack on toiletries, plus hanging it up on the back of the door helps to keep everything organized and out of the way.

8. Forgetting Power Adapters and Extenders

Mistake: Assuming your cabin will have enough outlets for all your devices. If you are cruising on an older cruise ship, most likely you will only have one outlet for your cabin. A lot of newer cruise ships offer a couple of extra outlets and USB ports as well.

Solution: Bring a power strip (without surge protection, as these are often prohibited) and a USB hub to charge multiple devices. Check if you need an adapter for international cruises.

Tip: Some cruise lines such as Royal Caribbean have banned power strips but will allow multi-USB port outlets. Check with your cruise line's list of banned items before cruising.

I always like to bring a couple of portable battery chargers. They are great for walking around at the port and you can use them as extra charging outlets in your room.

9. Neglecting Weather Changes

Mistake: Packing only for sunny weather and ignoring the possibility of rain or cooler temperatures.
Solution: Pack a lightweight rain jacket or poncho for the Caribbean and a warm, waterproof coat for Alaska. Always include a compact umbrella.

Tip: Be sure to pack waterproof walking shoes for Alaska and water shoes for the beach in the Caribbean.

10. Skipping Reusable Items

Mistake: Relying on single-use items like plastic water bottles or disposable bags.

Solution: Bring a reusable water bottle, and a tote bag for the port or beach day. Many cruise ships have refill stations, and reusable items help reduce waste.

Tip: Some cruise lines will allow you to use your water bottle for specialty drinks like soda or juices (provided you purchased the drink package for those specialty drinks).

Bring a collapsable water bottle to save room.

Bonus Tip: Pack a Day Bag

Mistake: Waiting until your luggage is delivered to your cabin to access essentials.

Solution: Pack a small day bag or a cruise carry-on bag with important documents, swimwear, sunscreen, medications, and a change of clothes. This ensures you’re ready to enjoy the ship or explore your first port immediately.

Tip: Most cruise lines passengers will not be able to access their cruise cabin till around 1:00 or 2:00. Carrying a day bag with essentials will help you get straight to the fun. Plus, you can use your day bag at cruise ports as well.

Conclusion: Pack Smart, Cruise Happy

Avoiding these common packing mistakes can make your cruise experience smoother, more enjoyable, and stress-free. Whether you’re cruising to the Caribbean or Alaska thoughtful preparation ensures you’ll have everything you need—and nothing you don’t.

Ready to set sail? Don't forget to download my free cruise packing checklist to ensure you are ready!