What I Actually Pack for a Cruise: Favorite Products and Smart Packing Tips
These aren’t just pretty props—this flat lay features the exact cruise gear I’ve used and loved on real sailings. If it made my towel, it’s worth the suitcase space.
Why I’m Sharing My Real Cruise Packing Favorites
I’m what you might call a well-rounded wanderer. Cruising isn’t my only travel style—I’ve road-tripped through the U.S., camped by the coast and in the desert, explored cities across Europe, and soaked up the slow pace of island resorts. But cruising has definitely earned a recurring spot in my vacation lineup. So far, I’ve spent 37 days at sea, all with Carnival Cruise Lines—which makes me a smart-packing intermediate, not a newbie, and not yet a cruise line expert (working on it!).
When I started cruising, I had a friend guide me through all the little things I didn’t know—like why you need a lanyard for your cruise card and how magnetic hooks can save your sanity in a small cabin. That real advice made a huge difference, and it’s part of why I started The Sea Seeker in the first place.
This post is all about the items I actually use, the brands that earned their spot, and how I decide what’s worth packing. Whether you’re new to cruising or just tired of overpacking things you never touch, I hope this list helps you cruise smarter and stress less.
Heads-up: I’m applying for the Amazon Associates program soon, so I’m not including product links just yet. Most items here can be found easily on Amazon by name—and once I’m approved, I’ll come back and update this post with direct shopping links. Thanks in advance for checking back and supporting The Sea Seeker!
My Go-To Cruise Brands (That Always Make the Cut)
No stock images here—this is my real cruise gear laid out before our last sailing. Here’s what I pack, love, and use again and again.
ECOHUB Travel Backpack (17”)
Favorite item: ECOHUB 17” Travel Backpack – personal item size, water-resistant, flight-approved
I’ve tested my fair share of carry-ons, but this ECOHUB backpack has become my personal item of choice for both flying and cruising. It’s lightweight, fits easily under an airplane seat, and somehow manages to hold everything I need without feeling bulky or overstuffed.
With 13 organized pockets, a built-in USB port, water-resistant fabric, and a luggage sleeve that slides right over a rolling suitcase handle, it transitions seamlessly from airport to cruise terminal. I actually packed for an entire 5-day beach vacation using just this one bag—no checked luggage required.
Even when I do check a bag, this is the backpack I keep close. It’s perfect for holding your embarkation day essentials—like medication, documents, sunscreen, a swimsuit, and anything you’ll want before your luggage shows up outside your cabin later that afternoon.
You can find the ECOHUB 17” Travel Backpack on Amazon—just search the name to check current colors and availability.
HEETA Dry Bag Waterproof
Favorite item: HEETA Roll-Top Dry Bag Backpack – waterproof, lightweight, available in multiple sizes
When it comes to shore excursions, especially ocean or beach days, a regular purse or tote just doesn’t cut it. That’s why I always reach for my HEETA Dry Bag. It’s waterproof, lightweight, and comes in a range of sizes—from 5L to 40L—so you can pick the one that fits your day plan.
We’ve taken these on snorkel trips, catamaran cruises, and beach days, and they’ve held up beautifully. The roll-top closure keeps everything inside bone dry—even when the outside is splashed or sitting on wet sand. Plus, it comes with a bonus waterproof phone case, which is a lifesaver for getting photos without the panic.
You can wear it like a backpack or carry it by the side handle, depending on what’s more comfortable for the day. It’s roomy enough for a towel, sunscreen, water bottle, and change of clothes—but still compact enough to carry around port all afternoon.
You can find the HEETA Dry Bag on Amazon in lots of colors and sizes—just search by name to find your fit.
Simple Fun Summer Dresses
Favorite item: SimpleFun T-Shirt Casual Pockets Boho Tank Dress – lightweight, soft, beach-to-dinner ready
When I pack cruise clothes, I go for breathable fabrics, comfortable fits, and easy style—and that’s exactly what I’ve found in the Simple Fun line on Amazon. Their Summer Dresses are lightweight, soft, and available in tons of cute prints that make outfit planning effortless.
My personal favorite is the T-Shirt Casual Boho Tank Dress with pockets. It’s become one of my go-to cruise outfits because it transitions seamlessly from the beach to the buffet to an afternoon of port shopping. I’ve thrown it on over a swimsuit, dressed it up with sandals for dinner, and even packed a second one in a different print just because they’re that easy to wear.
If you’re looking for simple, cruise-ready style that doesn’t wrinkle easily and feels great in warm weather, this dress is a winner. You can find it by searching “Simple Fun Summer Dress” on Amazon—just be warned, it’s hard to choose just one print!
Reef-Safe & Skin-Friendly Sun Protection
Favorite items: Coral Isles Reef Safe SPF 50 & Hawaiian Tropic Sheer Touch SPF 70
Sun protection is a cruise essential, and not all sunscreens are created equal—especially when you’re spending long days in tropical destinations or booking excursions that require reef-safe formulas. I keep two different sunscreens in my cruise bag, and they both earn their spot for different reasons.
Coral Isles Reef Safe Sunscreen – SPF 50
This is the one I pack for eco-sensitive ports, like Cozumel or Roatán, where reef-safe sunscreen is either strongly encouraged or required. The Coral Isles SPF 50 is Oxybenzone and Octinoxate free, and it holds up surprisingly well in the heat and humidity without that chalky residue some reef-safe options leave behind.
If you’re snorkeling, visiting marine reserves, or just want to play it safe, this one’s a smart addition to your beach bag. Look for it on Amazon or in specialty travel shops by searching “Coral Isles Reef Safe Sunscreen.”
Hawaiian Tropic Sheer Touch Lotion Sunscreen – SPF 70
For sea days and casual strolls in port, I prefer something that feels lightweight—and this one has been my go-to for years. The Sheer Touch SPF 70 from Hawaiian Tropic is Oxybenzone free, absorbs quickly, and doesn’t leave my skin feeling greasy or clogged. I can apply it mid-day and still feel like my skin can breathe (especially on my face and shoulders).
It also smells like vacation, which is never a bad thing when you’re sailing the Caribbean.
You can find both sunscreens on Amazon or at most big-box stores—just be sure to double-check the SPF and “reef safe” labeling if you’re headed to protected marine zones.
Cruise gear that made the cut. I’ve tested a lot, and these are the items that actually make it into my suitcase every time.
Cruise-Worthy Footwear I Always Pack
Favorite items: Teva Hurricane XLT 2, Teva Voya Flip-Flops, and Hey Dude Deck Shoes
Comfortable shoes are non-negotiable on a cruise—especially when you’re moving from ship to shore, climbing stairs, or spending full days exploring port cities. I always pack a few go-to pairs that I know can handle wet decks, sandy beaches, casual dinners, and long walking excursions—without giving me blisters or making me feel underdressed.
Teva Women’s Hurricane XLT 2 Sandals
These are my excursion-day powerhouses. I’ve worn them hiking, swimming, shopping, and even straight to dinner without missing a beat. They’re lightweight, easy to rinse off, and surprisingly cute for an adventure sandal. Best of all? My feet feel supported even after hours of walking on cobblestones or sandy trails.
Teva Women’s Voya Flip-Flops
When it’s a sea day or poolside kind of vibe, I switch to these. They’re ultra-comfy with a soft footbed and have just enough grip to handle wet decks without that slip-and-slide feeling. I always keep these by the cabin door or tucked in my beach bag just in case.
Hey Dude Shoes (Yes, I’m That Girl)
Yep—I pack my Hey Dudes too. They’re my go-to deck shoes and are perfect for sea days, casual meals, or strolling through port towns. With so many fun seasonal styles and colors, I can easily dress them up or down. They’re light, easy to slip on and off, and pack down flat in my luggage.
My husband wears the “Water Dudes”, which are made to handle splash zones and beach landings—we’ll be sharing a full review of those soon on our YouTube channel, so stay tuned if you’re shopping for couple-friendly cruise footwear!
Cruise Tip: Break in any new sandals or deck shoes before your trip. The only thing worse than sunburned shoulders is blistered feet on Day 2.
Small But Mighty: My Go-To Camera for Cruise Adventures
Favorite item: DJI Action 5 Pro with the Diving Package
When it comes to documenting cruise memories—especially those magical underwater moments—I rely on gear that’s compact, durable, and delivers high-quality footage without a lot of fuss. My top pick? The DJI Action 5 Pro, paired with the diving package.
This camera is small but mighty. It captures crisp, stabilized video in just about any environment—from snorkeling in Cozumel to capturing dolphin sightings from the ship’s deck. With the diving case, it’s fully waterproof and built to handle real ocean adventures—not just splashes by the pool.
It’s also incredibly easy to toss into a shore excursion bag or clip onto your backpack. I’ve used it to record sail-away time lapses, underwater reef footage, and even casual moments walking through port towns.
Cruise Tip: If you’re planning on snorkeling or booking water-based excursions, a hands-free mount or floating grip for your action cam is well worth it—especially when you’re balancing beach bags and boarding passes.
You can find the DJI Action 5 Pro on Amazon—just search by name and be sure to grab the diving package for cruise-level versatility.
Cruise Cabin Essentials I Never Sail Without
Cruise cabins are cozy, efficient—and let’s be honest—a little tight on space. Over the years, I’ve discovered a handful of small, smart items that make my stateroom feel more like a well-organized retreat and less like a cluttered closet. These aren’t just “nice-to-haves.” These are the essentials that make every cruise smoother from the moment I unlock the door.
Tight on cabin space? These small-but-mighty cruise essentials—from towel hooks to USB outlets—are real cruise-saver upgrades for adults who like to stay organized at sea.
Here’s what earns a permanent spot in my cruise cabin kit:
Magnetic Hooks & Clips
Most cruise cabin walls are metal, which means magnetic hooks are a game-changer for hanging hats, swimsuits, lanyards, and wet towels. I bring a mix of heavy-duty hooks and lightweight clips and stick them up as soon as I unpack.
Pro Tip: Use them by the bathroom to hang toiletry bags or by the door to create a grab-and-go station for your cruise card, sunglasses, or excursion passes.
Collapsible Laundry Bag
After a few sea days, dirty clothes start piling up fast. A simple pop-up mesh laundry bag keeps things contained and off the floor—without taking up precious space. I usually tuck it in the closet or under the desk.
Packing Cubes That Stay in the Drawer
Packing cubes aren’t just for suitcases—I keep them zipped and slide them right into the drawers. This makes unpacking a breeze and helps me stay organized all week. I’ll often label one for swimwear, one for casual clothes, and one for dinner outfits.
Bonus: Repacking at the end of the cruise takes five minutes flat.
USB Hub or Cruise-Approved Power Strip
Cruise cabins are notoriously short on outlets. I always bring a USB charging hub or a non-surge protected power strip that’s cruise line approved. Between phones, smartwatches, tablets, and cameras, this little tool keeps everything powered without playing musical chargers.
Night Light or Motion Sensor Light
Cabins can get pitch black at night, especially interior rooms. I pack a small, soft-glow night light or motion sensor tap light to avoid toe stubs and bathroom stumbles. It’s one of those things you don’t think to pack—until you forget it once.
Wrinkle-Release Spray & Pillow Mist
There’s no iron in your cabin, and wrinkle-prone clothes happen. A travel-sized wrinkle-release spray is the easiest way to refresh outfits for formal night. I also bring a small lavender pillow mist—it helps make the cabin feel more like home and turns down the volume on hallway noise.
Over-the-Door Organizer (Optional, but Loved)
On longer cruises, I sometimes bring a foldable hanging organizer for toiletries, accessories, or meds. It hangs over the bathroom or closet door and keeps the tiny vanity area from getting overwhelmed with clutter.
Printed Cruise Itinerary & Port Info Sheet
Call me old school, but I like to have a printed copy of my cruise itinerary with port times, shore excursion notes, and dinner reservations. It’s easy to reference without having to dig through apps or emails—especially helpful if your phone goes into roaming or airplane mode.
My Favorite Gear for Sea Days & Shore Days
Every cruise day has its own vibe. Some are for lounging with a good book and a frozen drink. Others are for climbing pyramids, snorkeling in turquoise water, or strolling through open-air markets. Over time, I’ve built a go-to list of gear that makes each type of day more enjoyable, less stressful, and (let’s be real) way more comfortable.
Shore-day ready! These are my go-to items for beachy port days—reef-safe sunscreen, a dry bag that floats, and the comfiest sandals that won’t slip on wet docks.
Here’s a breakdown of what I pack—and what I actually use—for three common cruise day styles:
Sea Day Staples: For Relaxing Onboard
Whether I’m stretched out on the sun deck, sipping a mimosa at brunch, or heading to a spa appointment, I want my sea day gear to be effortless, light, and comfy.
My essentials:
Sun hat & polarized sunglasses
Reusable tumbler for cold drinks that don’t sweat or spill
E-reader or Kindle with my cruise reads pre-loaded
Portable neck fan or cooling towel (great for warm-weather sailings)
Cruise Tip: I pack a separate sea day tote just for onboard lounging. It keeps my cabin clutter-free and makes it easy to grab everything I need before heading up to the pool deck.
What I actually pack for a cruise—real gear, real outfits, and 37 days of cruise-tested advice for grown-up travelers.
Adventure Day Must-Haves: For Excursions & Active Ports
These are the days that call for gear you can count on—from beach landings to jungle hikes to zipline adventures. I like to keep things light but reliable, especially when water and sand are involved.
My essentials:
Teva Hurricane XLT 2 sandals (comfortable, rinseable, and dependable)
HEETA dry bag (waterproof & hands-free for beach and boat days)
Reef-safe sunscreen (like Coral Isles SPF 50 for protected waters)
Swimsuit + quick-dry activewear or cover-up
ZEEPORTE Mask Fin Snorkel Set – This full snorkel set has traveled with me on multiple cruises. The fins are lightweight, the mask seals well, and the snorkel lets me explore without renting gear that’s been used a hundred times before.
TwoYek Microfiber Beach Towel – This towel is a cruiser’s dream: compact, sand-resistant, and dries fast. It rolls up small enough to tuck in my dry bag, but it’s large enough to actually stretch out on at the beach.
Waterproof phone case or action cam (I use the DJI Action 5 Pro
Cruise Tip: If you’re doing any snorkeling, I highly recommend bringing your own gear like the ZEEPORTE set. Not only does it fit better, but you also know it’s clean, packed right, and ready when you are.
City Day Essentials: For Shopping, Walking & Local Eats
These are my favorite slow-paced days—exploring shops, eating fresh local food, and soaking up the culture on foot. I keep things lightweight and practical but still stylish enough to feel like I fit in.
My essentials:
Hey Dude shoes (they look casual-chic and don’t scream “tourist”)
Crossbody bag or smaller daypack
Sunglasses & SPF face mist for easy reapplication
Printed port map or digital screenshot of walking routes
Portable phone charger
Small cash stash for tips, markets, or taxis (in local currency if possible)
Cruise Tip: Pack one “wild card” item you’d never think to bring—like a foldable sun umbrella or mini fan. The first time you use it, you’ll feel like a genius.
Cruise-Friendly Beauty & Self-Care Favorites
Cruise beauty is a different ballgame. You’re dealing with salt air, humidity, strong sun, and the occasional over-air-conditioned dining room—all in a compact stateroom with limited counter space. Over time, I’ve learned what works, what melts off, and what just takes up space. These are my tried-and-true beauty and self-care favorites for keeping it simple but pulled together at sea.
My minimalist cruise beauty lineup—eco-friendly, cruise-approved, and kind to both your skin and the sea.
Face & Body Sunscreen That Doesn’t Feel Like Cement
I already mentioned these in my sun protection section, but it’s worth repeating here because they double as daily skincare on a cruise:
Coral Isles Reef Safe SPF 50 – Great for port days with marine protection rules.
Hawaiian Tropic Sheer Touch SPF 70 – Lightweight and oxybenzone-free. Doesn’t clog my pores or leave me greasy.
Travel-Friendly Skincare That Beats the Heat
My skin tends to freak out in humid, sunny environments—so I pare down my skincare routine and focus on hydration and barrier protection.
Favorites include:
Gel moisturizer or hydrating serum that layers easily
Face mist with SPF for mid-day reapplication on excursions
Cleansing balm or micellar wipes (easy to use in tight bathroom spaces)
Mini facial roller or cooling globes for de-puffing after long travel days
Cruise Tip: I decant my skincare into labeled travel pods before each trip. Saves space and avoids TSA-size drama on flight days.
Haircare That Survives Salt & Sun
Cruise hair has a mind of its own. Between humidity and pool dips, I pack products that fight frizz and help me get away with not styling every day.
My go-to lineup:
Leave-in conditioner or detangler spray
Wide-tooth comb or Wet Brush
Dry shampoo (crucial for sea days or early excursions)
Mini hairspray or styling cream to tame the flyaways
Optional add-in: I bring a sun hat or headwrap to double as sun protection and a style save on bad hair days.
Nails, Scents & Little Luxuries
I don’t go full glam on cruises, but I do bring a few self-care touches that help me feel fresh and put-together.
Small-but-mighty extras I pack:
Nail file, clippers, and clear polish
Perfume roller or body mist (compact & non-breakable)
Lip balm with SPF
Lavender pillow spray for better cabin sleep
Cooling aloe gel in case I overdo the sun
Cruise Tip: Cruise cabin bathrooms are small, but I keep all of this in one zip-up toiletry bag that hangs on a hook. Easy to grab, easy to stash.
How I Choose My Cruise Gear (So You Don’t Waste Money on Stuff You Won’t Use)
I didn’t build this list overnight. In fact, one of the biggest lessons I’ve learned after 37 cruise days (and plenty of land-based travel) is that not everything labeled “cruise essential” actually earns its spot in your bag.
Where the cruise magic begins—at the kitchen table with a list, a map, and a whole lot of wanderlust.
Before anything makes it into my cruise rotation, it has to pass a few real-world tests. Here’s how I decide what’s worth bringing back—and what gets left behind:
It has to serve more than one purpose
A cute bag is great—but if it can’t handle sand, sunscreen, and saltwater without falling apart, it’s not cruise-worthy. I look for multi-functional items that can transition from beach to brunch or plane to port.
It needs to travel well
Cruise cabins are small, and airline baggage limits are even smaller. I only pack things that are lightweight, packable, and durable. If it takes up space and only gets used once, it’s not coming.
I actually test it before I cruise
If I’m trying something new—like sandals, gadgets, or sun care—I test it during a weekend trip, day outing, or at the pool before packing it for sea. No one wants to deal with blisters, dying batteries, or tech issues halfway through a vacation.
It works for my cruise style
Some folks cruise to dress up. Some to relax. Some to hit every excursion. I cruise for a mix of all three—so my gear has to keep up. I skip anything that’s high-maintenance or can’t keep up with heat, salt, or motion.
If I wouldn’t recommend it to a friend, I don’t recommend it here
Simple as that. Every item in this post is something I’ve personally used and genuinely enjoyed. No fluff. No filler. Just real gear from real trips.
Cruise Tip: Create your own “return-worthy list” after every sailing. I jot down what I loved, what I didn’t use, and what I wish I had packed. After a couple cruises, you’ll start seeing patterns—and packing like a pro.
Official logo for The Sea Seeker Society, a community created by The Sea Seeker cruise blog for adults who love ocean travel. The heart-shaped wave design represents connection, community, and a passion for cruising, all central to The Sea Seeker brand identity.
Stay Connected
Want more cruise tips delivered straight to your inbox? Subscribe here and grab your free Ultimate Cruise Packing List.
Join our private Facebook community, The Sea Seeker Society, where travelers 40+ share cruise advice, recommendations, and real stories from the sea.
Follow The Sea Seeker on Instagram, Pinterest, and Facebook for daily cruise inspiration and smart travel ideas.
Let’s make your next cruise your best one yet.
