Over-packing is easy to do, but forgetting a crucial item can be a real headache. Don't worry, I've got you covered. After countless cruises, I’ve refined my packing list down to a science. This is the ultimate, no-nonsense checklist to ensure you have everything you need for a fantastic vacation, without hauling three suitcases for a 7-night cruise.
The Must-Haves: Your Essential Carry-On Bag
Let's start with the most important rule: never pack critical items in your checked luggage. Your checked bags can sometimes take a few hours to arrive at your stateroom after you board. Everything you need for the first afternoon should be with you in a backpack or carry-on bag.
Passports & Government ID: An absolute must. Keep them in a safe, easily accessible spot.
Cruise Documents: Your printed SetSail Pass and luggage tags.
Medications: Any prescription or essential over-the-counter medications.
Wallet: Credit cards and some cash for tips or small purchases in port.
Phone & Portable Charger: You’ll want to take pictures as soon as you board!
Swimsuit: If you want to hit the pool right away without waiting for your bags, pack this in your carry-on.
A Change of Clothes: A simple t-shirt and shorts, just in case.
Your Cruise Wardrobe: Clothing Essentials
Daywear & Casual Attire
This is what you'll live in for most of the cruise. Think comfortable and versatile.
T-shirts & Tank Tops: Several of your favorites.
Shorts or Skirts: At least 2-3 pairs.
Sundresses or Casual Dresses: Perfect for looking put-together for lunch at the Windjammer buffet.
Lightweight Sweater or Cardigan: This is a surprisingly crucial item! The air conditioning in the ship’s interior (theaters, dining rooms) can be quite chilly. Don't skip this.
Activewear: For the gym, the rock-climbing wall, or just a comfortable sea day.
Evening & Dinner Attire
Royal Caribbean's evening dress code is generally relaxed. For most nights in the Main Dining Room, "smart casual" is the way to go.
For Men: Nice jeans or khakis with a collared polo shirt or button-down shirt.
For Women: A nice top with pants or a skirt, or a casual dress.
Formal Night Explained
Don't let the words "Formal Night" stress you out. It’s your chance to dress up and get some great photos, but it's not a black-tie gala unless you want it to be. On a typical 7-night cruise, there will be two formal or "Dress Your Best" nights.
What most people wear: Men often wear a suit or a sports coat with slacks. Women wear cocktail dresses or elegant evening gowns.
Can you skip it? Absolutely. If dressing up isn't your thing, you can always have a more casual dinner at the Windjammer buffet on formal nights.
For the Pool and Ports
Multiple Swimsuits: At least two, so one can be drying while you wear the other.
Swimsuit Cover-Up: Essential for walking from your cabin to the pool decks.
Flip-Flops or Sandals: For the pool area.
Comfortable Walking Shoes: Crucial for exploring the often-cobbled streets in ports of call.
Sun Hat & Sunglasses: The Caribbean sun is no joke.
Waterproof Phone Pouch: A cheap and brilliant way to protect your phone during beach excursions.
Small Daypack: To carry your essentials when you get off the ship.
Helpful Cabin & Bathroom Extras
The staterooms are small but efficient. These few items make a huge difference.
Magnetic Hooks: The walls and ceiling of your cabin are metal! Bringing a few heavy-duty magnetic hooks is a game-changing hack for hanging wet swimsuits, hats, and bags to keep your room organized.
Over-the-Door Shoe Organizer: Great for storing toiletries, sunscreen, and other small items to free up counter space.
Poo-Pourri or Air Freshener: A small cabin bathroom has very little ventilation. Trust me on this one.
Your Preferred Toiletries: While the ship provides basic soap and a 2-in-1 shampoo/conditioner, you'll be more comfortable with your own.
What NOT to Pack (Prohibited Items)
Royal Caribbean has a strict list of items that are not allowed on board for safety reasons. Leave these at home.
Clothing Irons or Steamers: These are a fire hazard. There are laundry services onboard if needed.
Hard Liquor or Beer: You can bring up to two 750ml bottles of wine or champagne per stateroom, but no other alcohol.
Power Strips: Standard power strips are not allowed. You can, however, bring a multi-port USB hub (that is not a surge protector) to charge multiple devices.
Drones, Candles, or anything with an open flame.
My Final Tip
Lay everything you think you need out on your bed. Now, put half of it back in the closet. Okay, maybe not half, but we almost always pack more than we need! Stick to this list, and you’ll have a perfectly packed suitcase with everything you need for a stress-free and amazing Royal Caribbean vacation.
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