Prepare and pack all the necessary cruise documents. Fill out and complete any required boarding paperwork and attach the provided tags to all of your luggage. Bring your passport and any necessary visa, as well as credit and debit cards and cash.
Pack essential items in your carry-on bag. Passengers check in to a cruise ship in huge crowds and because of this, your luggage may not arrive in your cabin until hours after you've boarded. Pack essential items in your carry-on to get through dinnertime. Essential items may include cameras, bathing suits, medications, sunscreen, toiletries and change of clothes and shoes.
Read your cruise line's dress code. Cruise lines implement specified dress codes for formal evenings and casual day wear. The dress code may change daily so check with your cruise airline and pack accordingly.
Consider the activities you want to do while on the trip such as snorkeling, golf or tennis. Inquire about the ship's rental availability and rates and then decide if you want to bring your own gear or rent.
Make a packing list and categorize them as clothes, accessories, toiletries, medical kit, shoes, beach and swimming gear, sports equipment and tools or electronic gadgets. This way you can organize your items and find them easier.
Pack in all the items neatly. Use plastic bags to put shoes in to keep your clothes clean. Pack socks inside shoes to save space. Roll up underwear and other small pieces and then squeeze them in small spaces. Consider the weather and pack items just in case it gets too warm or cold. Place items that may leak in Ziploc bags.
