First Time Cruise Essentials to Pack

Packing for a cruise can be overwhelming, but with the right essentials, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable vacation. In this blog post, I will break down the must-have travel cruise essentials for your upcoming cruise.

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15 Cruise Essentials for First Time Cruisers

Bathroom Organizer

Hanging Toiletry Bag

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A hanging toiletry organizer with compartments for toiletries, medications, and other essentials is a lifesaver in small cruise bathrooms. Cruise cabin bathrooms are small, so having all of your toiletry essentials off the counter can really help to keep your bathroom organize and helps to keep your packing organized as well.

Motion Sickness Medicine

Motion sickness patches and Dramamine for those prone to seasickness. I cruise a lot and still find myself needing to wear my motion sickness patch at times. I have noticed on some of the larger ships, like ICON you can barely feel the movement at all, but it's better to have them than to not.

First Aid Kit

A basic first aid kit with Band-Aids and Neosporin can come in handy for minor injuries. You can buy a travel first aid kit, or you can do a diy first aid kit and put some essentials in a Ziplock baggie. You don't want to find that you need a band aid and have to spend those high prices in the gift shop.

Sunscreen

Sunscreen is a must to protect your skin whether you are cruising to the Caribbean or Alaska you will need some sunscreen. I even found that I needed sunscreen when cruising to Greenland. It was chilly but the sun was definitely out.

Electronics and Organization

USB charger block: A versatile charger with multiple outlets and USB ports is essential for keeping your devices powered. Be sure not to pack a surge protector, this is band on cruises. While some cruise lines will allow power strips with a cord other cruise lines are banning them, so it is best to bring a charger block.

Magnet Hooks

Magnet hooks: This can really maximize space in your cabin by hanging items on magnetic hooks. I like to use my magnetic hooks to hang up my bags, robe, and hats. I even use them on my cabin door to hang up decorations.

Towel Clips

Towel clips: Use these to secure your towel to your lounge chair or creatively close your curtains. Yes, you read that right. I mostly use my towel clips now to clip my cabin curtains closed. Ever been in a cruise cabin and your curtains don't close all the way?

Selfie Stick

Selfie stick: Capture memorable moments with a portable selfie stick those doubles as a tripod. This can be really helpful walking around on the deck or even taking group photos out at the port. But is this really an essential? You tell me.

Portable Fan

Portable fan: I have to have my portable fan to stay cool and comfortable at night. It has a USB port and most newer cruise ships have USB outlets next to the bed. If you have an older cruise ship without a USB port, then bring a battery pack with a USB to set next to your bed.

Packing Cubes

Packing cubes are a great way to stay organized while you are packing your suitcase and to stay organized in the cabin. You can pack your packing cubes by like items or by the day, and when you are done with the items in your packing cube, just put your dirty clothes back in your packing cube to avoid having to buy a popup hamper.

Set of Packing Cubes

Extra Large, Large, Medium, Small

Compression Packing Cubes

4/6 Set of Packing Cubes

Chargers

Don't forget to pack chargers for your phones, laptops, and other electronics. This may seem obvious, but I forgot my laptop charger once while my husband forgot his phone charger, and did you know Uber can deliver your stuff to you. Well, if you have someone at your home to give your items to the Uber driver.

Beach Bag

Mesh bag: A versatile mesh bag can hold various items, from beach essentials to toiletries. I like having a small mesh bag to take to the pool with me instead of carrying all of my pool items to relax by the pool for the day.

Travel Pillow

Travel pillow: Enjoy added comfort during flights and on the ship with a travel pillow. Oh, my goodness, I love this travel pillow that doubles as a blanket. It really makes flying so much more comfortable.

Luggage Tags

Luggage tags: Ensure your luggage arrives safely with durable luggage tags. You can print your cruise luggage tags and place them in these luggage tag holders. These are really durable as I have flown with them with no issue.

Carry-On Bags

Carry-on bag: Pack a convenient carry-on bag for essentials during embarkation and port days. You will need a carry-on bag for embarkation day especially if you check your bag with the porter. Make sure you have essentials such as, medication, IDs and boarding passes in your bag.

Additional Tips

• Consider using wristbands instead of lanyards for your cruise card. Check with you cruise line to see if they offer wristbands.

• Reuse packing cubes as a laundry hamper.

• Bring a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated.

• Pack light and prioritize essential items.

By incorporating these packing essentials into your travel routine, you'll be well-prepared for your next cruise adventure. Remember to customize your packing list based on your specific needs and preferences.

Bye for Now-