Cruise Checklist

Everything to pack and prepare before you set sail — documents, formal night, sea-day gear, and shore excursion basics.

25 Essentials · Travel · Free NellyList template

Free — save your own editable copy, customize it, set reminders, and share it with others.

  • Passport or accepted IDCheck your cruise line's requirements for your itinerary
  • Cruise documents and boarding passesComplete online check-in before you leave
  • Printed luggage tags from the cruise line
  • Travel insurance details
  • Credit card for onboard account
  • Small bills for tips and ports
  • Carry-on day bagChecked bags can take hours to reach your cabin — pack swimsuit and meds here
  • Swimsuits (two, so one is always dry)
  • Sunscreen and after-sun lotion
  • Formal night outfitMost ships have 1–2 dressy evenings per week
  • Casual dinner outfits
  • Comfortable walking shoes for ports
  • Sandals or flip-flops for the pool deck
  • Light sweater or jacketDining rooms and theaters run cold
  • Sunglasses and hat
  • Motion sickness remediesBands, tablets, or patches — even if you don't usually need them
  • Medications in carry-on
  • Magnetic hooksCabin walls are metal — instant extra storage
  • Non-surge power strip or USB hubCabins are short on outlets; surge protectors aren't allowed
  • Lanyard for your cruise card
  • Waterproof phone pouch
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Day pack for shore excursions
  • Downloaded shows, books, and playlistsShip Wi-Fi is slow and pricey
  • Laundry bag

Free — save your own editable copy, customize it, set reminders, and share it with others.

Why NellyList?

NellyList turns this checklist into a living list you can actually use.

  • Save your own copy
  • Customize every item
  • Set reminders
  • Share lists
  • Free on iPhone

Related lists

Browse categories