How to pack for a cruise

Typically, there are two types of people when it comes to packing for a cruise; those who have a detailed list and ensure their suitcase is ready weeks before they travel and those who leave packing until the day before. Whichever one you are, we hope this guide on how to pack for a cruise will help.

We’ve all experienced the exasperating panic of searching through luggage for something before realising that it’s been left at home. We think it’s better to have something and not need it than need something and not have it, which is something Monica from The Travel Hack echoes, “My top tip when packing for a cruise would be to not worry about space and pack everything you think you’ll need. One of the joys of cruising is that you have a lovely cabin where you can unpack your bags and make yourself at home for the duration of your voyage. You don’t need to worry about lugging your suitcase about and packing and unpacking your luggage as you move to each new destination. A cruise is one of the very rare travel opportunities where you can take as much as you like without worrying about it all weighing you down.”

That said, if you’re conscious of overpacking, heed the advice John from In The Loop Travel offers, “Travellers always want to get the optimal use out of their often limited packing space. So, the key to smart packing - for any environment - is to always think about versatility. You want to pack items of clothing that can be used more than once on your trip. You can mix and match to create different outfits and keep your packing lighter. Look for light, breathable materials that can be layered, so you can add or subtract layers as weather conditions dictate.”

The fact is, a cruise isn’t like a regular holiday, which is why it’s important to know what to pack. Let’s take a look at what you should take to some of the most desirable cruise destinations in the world:

There are few sights on earth that compare to the incredible white horizon of Antarctica. With unbelievable landscapes, a cruise to Antarctica is unlike any other.

When choosing what camera to pack, why not do as the professionals do and go for a DSLR? Their delivery of excellent image quality will help you to perfectly capture the alien landscapes. Along with your camera, you’ll need lenses. Try a telephoto lens for wildlife and for longer shots, bring a wide-angle zoom lens for its versatility. Ensure that you have packed plenty of batteries or chargers for your camera, as well as some memory sticks or even a hard drive to store your shots. Antarctica isn’t just a great land of snow and ice. There’s plenty of wildlife to be seen on your cruise - so make sure to pack some binoculars with you too!

“Pack suncream on an Antarctica cruise,” Megan from Mapping Megan recommends. “Sounds weird, doesn’t it? But I highly recommend you pack sunblock before you go. As winter in Antarctica is severe and inhospitable, trips are only available during the summer months (between November and March). And even though summer temperatures might dip below zero, the sun can shine out in full force. Summer is a great time to experience Antarctica because you benefit from extended hours of sunlight - it’s almost never dark! However, don’t let the chilly conditions fool you - the hole in the ozone layer and the light's reflection off the water and ice means high levels of UV exposure. And, although it’s not a tropical location, you can still easily get sunburnt.”

Antarctica is quite a dry place. That said, you should still pack waterproof clothing with you, as you may get wet on trips on smaller boats closer to shore. “For Antarctica, you know you will need all sorts of warming gear (hats, gloves, boots, parka) and waterproof gear,” John suggests. “If possible, you might seriously consider whether it would be better for you to rent these items and save the hassle of an enormous amount of packing. Most expedition lines travelling to this region offer rental options to cruisers.”

Bali is widely heralded as the jewel in Indonesia’s crown. The island has been enticing travellers for centuries, from surfers to writers and artists. And now, you! Ahead of your cruise, make sure to pack these items:

Bali is an unspoilt paradise and you really don’t want anything ruining that, particularly not a stomach bug or a small ailment. A first aid kit is something that no one really wants to think about but is very handy to have. Walk-in pharmacies offer just about everything you may need but if you have specific needs or requirements then ensure that you bring plenty of your own. Included in it should be plasters, bug spray, Imodium, hand sanitiser and ibuprofen.

Being well-equipped before any cruise is important but particularly so when heading to Bali. Insect repellant is an absolute necessity when visiting the area. If you’re around any bodies of water, particularly in the evening, be sure to be well covered in repellent. “Be ready to battle the bugs in Bali,” John says. “Pack a good suncream with bug repellent as well as breathable, comfortable walking shoes. Also, women may want to pack flowing scarves that serve as a proper cover when visiting holy sites and as protection against insects and the blazing sun.”

Indonesia is a tropical destination and one that sparks the thoughts of swimming costumes and shorts. But you’ll find that the locals dress rather conservatively. Bali is a Hindu island and as such, you should respect local customs and ensure that you’re wearing clothes that cover your knees and shoulders, particularly if you plan to visit temples and religious sites. Of course, you won’t get cold on the island, so try light, flowing cotton clothing. Thanks to the temperature, your packing list will include lighter items.

A Caribbean cruise is the ultimate in luxury travel. There are few more desirable destinations thanks to the sun, crystal clear waters and beautiful beaches. But what do you pack to really make the most of your time?

You’re really going to want to make the most of the sunshine. Fortunately, there are plenty of outdoor pursuits for you to enjoy in the Caribbean and aboard your ship. So be sure to pack a pair of sports trainers for walking and some flip-flops for the beach. It is also advised to pack a pair or two of dress shoes that you can wear to dinner.

“The Caribbean is pretty toasty year-round, so it’s helpful to pack lighter clothing,” says Jason from Popular Cruising. With glorious sunshine and hot climates, you’ll want to pack light and non-restricting clothes that will keep you cool when you’re enjoying the entertainment on board or exploring the islands ashore.

Swimsuits, shorts, flip-flops and suncream are a must on a Caribbean cruise. Ensure that you’re packing at least two of everything because after all, you’re heading to a tropical paradise of turquoise waters and white sand beaches so the likelihood is that you will enjoy some water sports or swimming. That said, you should still pack a couple of sweatshirts, pashminas or jumpers for the cooler evenings underneath the cruise ship’s air con.

The northern lights are possibly the most spellbinding natural phenomena on the planet. The dancing colours have inspired people for thousands of years, with the event steeped in legend. There’s nothing quite like experiencing the spectacle in person, and the best way to do it is on a cruise to Norway.

“For seeing the northern lights on a cruise to Norway, make sure you have the right type of camera, with the proper lens capabilities,” John explains. “You don’t want to travel all that distance to see this phenomenon and not get your best shots.” You should invest in a full-frame or 35mm camera, as these will provide a much superior image quality. Add to this a wide angled lens. Having such a lens means that you can capture the stunning landscapes of your surroundings, which will no doubt make for a much better photo.

“If you’re heading out on a northern lights cruise, then it is essential you have the correct clothing for it,” Daniella from Cruise Miss told us. “Thermals (including thermal socks) are an absolute must but also be sure to have a warm and waterproof coat, waterproof trousers, snow boots and a hat and earmuffs. It can be very cold, especially if you’re out all night chasing the lights. Gloves are also an absolute must but be sure to take 2 pairs with you at all times. If you’re out and you get wet, you still have warm and dry hand coverings.”

With so many layers, you’re bound to have a number of pockets at your disposal. But nothing competes with a good backpack. Inside, we recommend packing a water bottle, some snacks and your camera equipment. It’s also a safe and secure place for you to keep hold of any important items.