Free travel checklist generator

Cruise Packing List

Cruises mix relaxed days, one or two dressier nights, and short excursions, which is why packing tends to feel harder than it should.

Updated April 2026

Start with this cruise checklist

Quick answer

For a 6-day cruise, pack daywear and swimwear you can rotate, one smart outfit for formal nights, comfortable walking shoes for port days, a compact day-bag for excursions, motion-sickness remedies, sunscreen, and a magnetic hook or two for the metal cabin walls.

Sample checklist preview

6 days · 2 adults

What the generator starts with for this trip type — you can edit everything in the next step.

  • Swimsuits×1
  • Hats×1
  • Dress Shirts×1
  • Dresses×1
  • T-shirts×2
  • Pants×1
  • Shorts×2
  • Socks×3
  • Underwear×3
  • Sleepwear×1
  • Casual Sandals×1
  • SunscreenShared (1)

The full generator adjusts these for weather, laundry, travelers, and destination.

Customize this list →

What actually matters on a cruise

  • •Most cruises have one or two formal or "elegant" nights — one smarter outfit per person usually covers it.
  • •Port excursions often involve walking, heat, or water, so comfortable shoes and a dry-bag help more than extra outfits.
  • •Cabin walls are magnetic on most ships, so magnetic hooks add storage without damage.
  • •Motion-sickness remedies (patches, wristbands, or tablets) are worth packing even if you rarely get seasick.
  • •Onboard shop prices for sunscreen, charging cables, and basics are usually higher than at home.

Common cruise packing mistakes

  • •Overpacking evening wear — most nights are casual, not formal.
  • •Underestimating the amount of walking during port excursions and bringing only sandals.
  • •Forgetting a power strip (non-surge) where cabin outlets are limited, though some cruise lines have specific rules.

FAQ

Do cruises really have dress codes?

Most lines have a mix of casual, smart-casual, and one or two formal or "elegant" nights. One dressier outfit per person typically covers the formal evenings.

Can I bring my own drinks?

Rules vary by cruise line. Many allow a limited amount of wine per cabin; most restrict hard liquor and large amounts of soda. Worth checking your specific line.

What about plug adapters on board?

Many cruise ships have US-style outlets, but international or European ships may use different plugs. A small universal adapter is a safe default.

Related lists

Start with smart defaults, then edit fast

The generator opens pre-filled for this trip type. Tweak duration, weather, traveler mix, and packing style in seconds.

Start with this cruise checklist