Going on a cruise for the first time is an exciting experience. What you pack for your cruise depends on things like where you will be visiting, the shore excursion you have booked, and whether you will be having formal or casual dinners. There is also the added component of the Covid-19 pandemic to consider when packing. So, before you zip up that suitcase for your first cruise, check this list to be sure you haven’t missed any essentials.
Your Documentation
Even seasoned cruisers should take a look at this list while packing. Like many other things, the documentation needed to board your ship has changed a bit.
- Vaccination Card. Most cruises require cruisers to be vaccinated to sail.
- Negative Covid-19 test. This test is an addition to your vaccination card.
- Medical exemption documentation. Note, not all cruise lines are allowing this. You’ll need to confirm before your sail date.
- Passport. Although some cruises will accept a birth certificate and Government ID, Passports are always the best option.
- Cruise Contract/documents. These documents are needed to check-in.
- Lanyard for easy storage of sailing card and other essential documents.
Skincare Products
If you’re headed to any part of the Caribbean, you have to consider the effects of the sun. Destinations in the Caribbean have a higher UV index due to their proximity to the equator. So while you’re working on that beautiful sun kissed skin, be sure to pack the essentials for protection and recovery.
- Daily Cleanser
- Moisturizer and Hyaluronic Acid because the Caribbean sun can strip away that moisture.
- Sun Screen. Black girl sunscreen and supergoop are great for avoiding a white cast
- Lip Balm with SPF. Yes, those lips need protection too.
- Aloe Vera Gel, just in case. It is nature’s miracle cure.
Electronics & Gadgets
You are going on this cruise is to create memories. Memories need to be captured well and stored where you can easily retrieve them. You should, therefore, have a few essentials that allow you to create, store and access those memories.
- Underwater action camera. Go Pro and Dragon Touch have great options.
- Underwater phone case. If a new camera isn’t in the budget, you can still keep your phone protected while capturing some great footage.
- No surge power protector strip. Give yourself an extra place to plug in with these cruise-approved gadgets.
Your Carry-on Bag
There may be a good amount of time between checking in for your cruise and seeing your suitcases again. It’s a good idea to pack a few essentials in a carry-on bag, so you’ll always have access to them.
- A change of clothes
- Cash/Cards for island visits
- Medications. Pack your prescription and over the counter medications
- Motion sickness medications
- Documentation
- Toiletries
- Wine. Oh yes, you can bring wine on your cruise.
- Electronics and other valuables.
- Glasses
- Hand sanitizer
- Extra masks
- Disinfecting wipes
- Makeup
Wardrobe Checklist
And now for the fun part. What should your cruise wardrobe consist of? Just keep in mind that there will be all types of experiences on your journey. You may experience water activities, shows, formal dinners, beach time, and even some adventure on any given cruise. Your vacation wardrobe should reflect some of these possibilities.
- 2-3 Maxi dresses for comfortability
- 1-2 cocktail dresses for evening/clubwear
- 2-4 swimsuits, more if you love the water.
- Cover-ups
- Flip flops
- Casual shoes
- 1-2 fancy dresses for Captain’s night. Maybe not a gown, but most people like to show out at these dinners.
- Pumps or strappy sandals.
- 2-3 pairs of shorts
- 2-3 pairs of light pants. It may be too warm for jeans.
- Wedges for those who love to wear heels but need the comfortability.
- Underwear and socks
- Sweaters, lots of sweaters if you tend to get cold. The ship does not skimp on the AC
- Sun hat for the protection, and also because they make you look fabulous.
- PJs, or whatever you sleep in
- 4-6 Tank tops or short sleeve shirts
- Beach Bag
Your first cruise will be an unforgettable experience. Don’t let this list overwhelm you; you’ll soon see that packing is half the fun. And if by chance you forget something, there will be plenty of shopping opportunities on your voyage!
