Cruise smarter with these 10 dos and don’ts to avoid overpacking

Do… figure out why you’re overpacking

It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the idea of being unprepared, particularly if you’re new to cruise. Think about what’s driving the urge to pack everything you own. Are you worried about formal dinners? Travelling with kids under five? Seasickness?

If it’s just a case of not knowing what you should bring, don’t worry – we’ve got you covered. Here’s a cruise packing list to see what you do need before delving into what you don’t.

Don’t… pack with a “just-in-case” mentality

When packing for a cruise, it is easy to spiral into a loop of “what ifs”. The result? Overloaded luggage and a cluttered cabin.

Instead, embrace that cruises are about leaving your stress behind. Make tough choices now instead of deferring your decision-making, and you’ll be free to truly unwind once aboard.

Do… check your cruise ship’s amenities before packing

If you’re a first-time cruiser asking yourself, what amenities can I expect on a cruise ship, you are not alone. A report by our sister publication Cruise Trade News found that 56 per cent of new-to-cruisers were unsure about the amenities in staterooms, which frequently come with basics like hairdryers and robes.

Even if you’re a seasoned cruiser, it’s worth checking specific amenities on your chosen vessel – they might surprise you. Many ships have impressive facilities, from state-of-the-art gyms and sports equipment to cinemas, water parks, ice rinks, or even skydiving simulators.

For example, the carefully curated libraries aboard Viking Cruises may mean you leave that 500-page tome at home.

Don’t… overdo it on tech

You don’t need to pack your entire tech arsenal. Sure, a smartphone is practically an essential, and an e-reader or tablet might be handy, but do you really need a laptop and sound machine? Not only do these bulk up your luggage, but they also distract from the experience.

If you’re a first-time cruiser, you might worry you’ll be bored. Honestly, chances are you won’t have a moment to spare. Cruises are designed with entertainment in mind – think live shows, spas, cooking demonstrations and even the chance to glimpse wildlife. 

And that’s just onboard. On port days, there are guided excursions, local food tours, water sports and cultural experiences. With all that going on, you’ll hardly have time to scroll through social media, let alone set up a mini cinema in your cabin.

Our advice? Pack light, whether that means an onboard digital detox, as recommended by one of our experts, or finding a tech balance that works for you.

Do… embrace being an outfit repeater

Pack with purpose and own the art of repeating outfits. The secret to looking effortlessly put together, even after days or weeks at sea, is versatility.

Think classic, neutral pieces that mix and match easily when crafting your cruise-ready capsule wardrobe. Light trousers, airy skirts and breathable tops work best.

Pack more tops than bottoms, as they are more forgiving when it comes to repeat wears. Layers are another cruise essential, particularly when you’re travelling through different microclimates. Footwear should be functional and adaptable, like sturdy sandals that can handle city strolls and beach days alike.

Once you have those packed, throw in one or two statement pieces to liven things up – a bold scarf, eye-catching earrings or sunglasses can work wonders.

Remember that most cruise ships offer laundry services – which are handy for refreshing your favourites. While you usually have to pay extra for them, they’re often fairly affordable. For example, Carnival Cruise Line offers self-service laundromats priced from £3 per load.

Don’t… bring a travel iron

Leave the travel iron at home – they’re typically banned on cruise ships because they can be fire hazards. Plus, they take up valuable space in your luggage better reserved for cruise essentials.

Instead, pack wrinkle-resistant fabrics like merino wool, polyester blends and elastane, which hold their shape without creasing.

Linen might look lovely, but it is notoriously prone to wrinkles, so it’s best to consider alternatives to avoid looking crumbled. For any must-haves, anti-wrinkle spray is a lifesaver – just spritz, smooth and dry.

Do… be savvy about toiletries

While you’ll find body wash, shampoo and conditioner on board, that can’t typically be said of toiletries like sunscreen, moisturiser, toothpaste and perfume or cologne.

If you’re headed to sea (or river) with a travel companion, be it your parents, partner, or pal, save space by going halves on cruise essentials.

If you’re sailing solo, why not make up the difference by choosing solids over liquids, since they’re easier to pack? For example, solid perfumes are all the rage with cruisers in the know.

If you're cruising for seven days or less, bring travel-sized toiletries, even if you haven’t got a flight-imposed limit.

Don’t… fill your luggage with banned items

Something that saves a considerable amount of suitcase space? The 'banned items' lists instituted by cruise lines for the safety and comfort of their passengers. Each cruise line is different, so check what your one prohibits to avoid being caught out.

Generally, it is safe to assume that if it’s illegal on land, it’s banned on water, but there may be a few surprising additions to that. For example, many cruise ships ban all CBD products, even if they are legal in countries like the UK. The same goes for radio-controlled flying toys or drones.

Anything that could be a fire safety risk is also not allowed. As we've mentioned, that includes travel irons, as well as products like incense. 

Do… use compression packing cubes or tubes

These nifty things allow you to pack bulky items like jumpers, jackets or beach towels by squeezing out the excess air, drastically reducing their size (by roughly 20-30 per cent). They come in a variety of shapes and sizes, including this eight-piece set from Amazon. 

Simply roll or fold your items, place them in the tube or cube, seal it, and then compress by either rolling or vacuuming out the air, depending on the type. 

Not only do they make it easier to fit more in your luggage, but they also keep your belongings compartmentalised, which is excellent when you’re living out of a compact cabin for days or weeks. 

Don’t… pack your suitcase to capacity

As tempting as it is to fill every inch of your suitcase, resist the urge. Instead, save space for the souvenirs you pick up at the ports you visit. After all, one of the best things about cruising is that you get to experience multiple destinations, and chances are you'll want unique keepsakes from each. 

Just remember to check your ship’s guidelines when shopping for mementoes onshore, particularly if they are edible or drinkable.

Consider the local treasures you collect your reward for mastering minimalist packing. Whether you purchase pottery from Mexico or espadrilles from Spain, you’ll be thanking yourself when you’re not forced to sit on your suitcase to get it zipped up on the way home.