Must-have cruise essentials: Everything you shouldn’t forget to pack

Cruise holidays are an exciting but often overwhelming thing to plan and pack for. If someone is spending many weeks at sea, it can be hard to imagine everything that will be needed in this time away from home. And while the essentials may seem obvious, this comprehensive list of all cruise essentials will ensure all the basics are covered. In can be used as a packing checklist, making sure nothing is forgotten. 

Clothing for the cruise holiday 

First things first on the agenda of packing for your cruise holiday is clothing! No matter how long you will be onboard, it is important you have the right clothing to suit the destinations and ports you will be visiting. Some basic essentials may include:

• T Shirts – Short-sleeves for summer destinations and thicker long-sleeves for colder locations. 
• Thermals – ideal for if you are visiting cold and icy destinations. 
• Swimwear – Almost every modern-day cruise ship has swimming facilities, as well as spa facilities, so even if you are not visiting summer destinations, you will likely still want to pack your swimwear.
• A selection of trousers and jeans – To ensure you’ve covered all eventualities, cruise lines often suggest bringing a selection of trousers, jeans and shorts. From casual denim to linen trousers, you’ll be perfectly prepared for any situation onboard and at shore. 
• Plenty of underwear – There’s no denying that underwear is an essential item in your packing process. And while you should be sure to have enough to cover the period at which you will be onboard, it’s important to note that most cruise lines will offer some type of laundry service. Whether this is a typical wash and press service or a self-service laundry.

Toiletries and medications 

Personal hygiene essentials will of course include the basics such as toothpaste, toothbrushes, deodorant, shaving cream, feminine hygiene products and more. While some cruise lines will offer shower and bathing products, you may also wish to bring your own, particularly if you have a specific skin need that requires specialist products, such as eczema-friendly shower gels or dandruff shampoo. Other essentials include:

• Urgent medication – If you have any prescription medication or regularly require the access of certain OTC medicines, be sure to bring some with you. If you do however, have a medical emergency or concern onboard, cruise ships will have medical experts onboard to support you. 
• Sunscreen and SPF products – Spending a lot of time at sea and on deck means you will be exposed to high levels of UV. To ensure your skin is protected from the sun and you do not burn, be sure to pack a good amount of sunscreen and SPF. This could include moisturisers containing SPF as well as SPF lip balms. 
• Seasickness support – If you are prone to seasickness, it may be advisable to pack anti-nausea medication or motion sickness support bands to help ease your symptoms. 
• Perfume/Body spray – For the evenings, and when you want to get dressed up, a perfume or a body spray of your choice is recommended. Helping you feel your best at your evening dinners. 

Gadgets 

While gadgets weren’t always top of list for a cruise holiday, they have become an essential item for those who want to capture these once in a lifetime moments. 

• Cameras
• Phones/tablets 
• Charging cables 
• Adaptors 

All of these and more will keep you connected with the wider world (with access to onboard Wi-Fi) and allow you to savour the memories you make with beautiful photographs. 

Cash and Cards 

While you may have booked an all-inclusive cruise and will be able to book extras onboard through your onboard account, there will be moments throughout your trip when you will need a means of payment. From paying for souvenirs to getting a local treat at your destination port – be sure to carry some cash and some cards. 

Entertainment for the kids while at sea 

If you’re travelling as a family and with young children, there are some essential items your kids won’t want to be without – ensuring they are happy, and you can remain stress-free. For keeping your kids entertained, especially if your cruise itinerary includes several days at sea, be sure to tick off the following items on your packing checklist:

• Their favourite cuddly toy or comforter, perfect for keeping them calm at bedtime or helping them feel safe in a new environment. 
• Activities such as a colouring book or story book, small and easy to pack, but can keep kids entertained for hours.
• A child-friendly gadget such as a tablet to download their favourite movies or cartoons for downtime in the cabin. Perfect for when you need some peace and quiet.

While there are a wide variety of onboard facilities for children and babies, having these essntials in your suitcase will ensure they feel comfortable and entertained no matter where you are or what time it is. 

The editorial unit