Everything you need to thrive at sea for several months—without overpacking.
Embarking on a world cruise is an exhilarating adventure, promising new experiences and breathtaking destinations across continents—without the hassle of constant packing and unpacking. But what exactly should you bring on a 3–6 month cruise around the globe without packing your entire closet?
In this guide, you’ll find a curated packing list broken down into must-haves, optional extras, and items best left at home. Smart packing means smoother sailing—and more space for souvenirs!
Clothing: Build a Versatile Capsule Wardrobe
You’ll need outfits for warm weather and tropical climates (The Caribbean, Africa, Central America), cool or unpredictable weather (Alaska, Patagonia, Europe), casual days and elegant evenings onboard, and shore excursions ranging from jungle hikes to museum tours.
The Essentials:
- 6–8 mix-and-match tops (blouses, polos, tees)
- 3–4 bottoms (pants, shorts, skirts)
- 1–2 light sweaters or cardigans
- 1–2 warm layers (fleece, jacket, pull-overs)
- 2–3 dresses or evening outfits
- 1–2 swimsuits + cover-up
- Undergarments and sleepwear
- Comfortable walking shoes such as tennis shoes or hiking shoes
- Sandals/flip-flops
- One pair of dress shoes
- Lightweight rain jacket or poncho
- A hat to shield you from the sun or weather
- Scarf or pashmina (great for layering or dressing up)
- Sunglasses
- A few versatile pieces of inexpensive jewelry
- A purse, satchel, cross-body bag, or small backpack
Don’t Pack:
- Tops or bottoms with prints that would be hard to mix-and-match
- High heels or uncomfortable shoes
- Too many purses (pick 1 or 2 that are versatile)
- Expensive jewelry you would hate to have lost or damaged
- Multiple formal outfits (most cruisers repeat or re-accessorize)
- Heavy or bulky clothing items such as large coats (layer instead)
World cruise ships offer laundry services while onboard, so don’t overpack clothes. And remember that you can shop at port for seasonal or specialty items as needed- including souvenir apparel to fill any void you may have overlooked.
Also consider packing items you wouldn’t care to leave behind if you need to make room for new purchases.
Toiletries & Personal Care
Cruise ships provide some basics, but bringing your favorites can make a big difference.
Pack These Items:
- Toothbrush + paste, floss
- Hairbrush, styling tools (consider dual-voltage)
- Skincare products + sunscreen (reef-safe is a bonus!)
- Razor, tweezers, nail clippers
- Deodorant
- Medications + small first aid kit
- Stain remover
- Wet wipes, hand sanitizer
- Bug Spray
Don’t Pack:
- Soap, shampoo, conditioner (unless you have a favorite brand you can’t live without)
- Too many products (pick a few of your favorites and leave the rest behind)
- Hair dryers or irons (most ships provide these)
- Towels
Important Documents
- Passport(s) + photocopies
- Insurance documents
- Cruise tickets + Travel itinerary (digital and printed)
- Vaccination records
- Credit cards (2+), currency (for key ports)
- Luggage tags from the cruise line
Tech & Entertainment
- Smartphone + charger
- Power adapter (universal plug)
- Tablet or laptop (for reading, emails, blogging)
- Headphones or earbuds
- eReader with downloaded books
- Extra charging cables + power bank
- Camera or GoPro (optional but fun)
- Journal or sketchbook
- Portable games like crosswords, Sudoku, or a deck of cards
- RFID-blocking wallet (for security)
Leave behind bulky books and magazines and opt for an e-reader instead. Also keep in mind that these world cruise ships usually come complete with a decent-sized library.
Laundry & Organization
While the following are all optional, they may make life on board a little easier and more organized- if you have the extra space in your luggage.
- Packing cubes or compression bags (great for making space in your suitcase!)
- Reusable laundry bag
- Magnetic hooks (for hanging bags or accessories in your cabin)
- Over-the-door organizer for toiletries or accessories
Check to see if you will have access to an iron or steamer on your ship. If not, consider a wrinkle-release spray or small steamer.
Health & Comfort Extras
Be sure to pack any items or medications prescribed by your physician. These should be packed in your carry-on or personal bag for easy access- in their original packaging, and with their prescriptions. Besides that, consider:
- Motion sickness prevention
- Vitamins and supplements
- Eye mask, earplugs, neck pillow
- Compression socks for long flights
- Reusable water bottle
- Daypack or small tote for excursions
You can leave your own blankets and pillows at home. Every cabin will come fully stocked. If you feel like you need additional bedding, don’t hesitate to ask your cabin attendant for it.
Final Tips for Smart Packing & Smooth Sailing
What you do need:
The last piece of advice I have is to ensure you invest in a strong and sturdy luggage set that will hold up to the trials of travel, keeping all your belongings safe and undamaged. The recommended is one luggage, one carry-on, and one personal item such as a purse or laptop bag- beyond that, you may be over-packing. And while most world cruise ships don’t have a maximum luggage limit, airlines do.
What you don’t need:
Some suggest working with your knowledgeable travel planner and looking at every destination on the itinerary to ensure you have something suitable for each situation. I believe that if you stick to this expertly curated packing list, you will already have everything you need. However, if this would make you feel more comfortable, the advice is always included in my services.
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Need help preparing for a world cruise, picking the right one, or curating your packing list even further?
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