Packing for your first cruise? You’re probably busy making lists, checking the weather, and wondering if you need to bring everything from beachwear to backup shoes.
But here’s the deal—while it’s tempting to overpack (speaking as a recovering overpacker myself), knowing what not to bring is just as important as what to throw in your suitcase.
After seeing this question come up countless times, I turned to my cruise-loving Facebook community to find out what real cruisers regret packing. Their answers? A perfect mix of smart tips and hilarious confessions.
So if you’re ready to save space (and avoid bringing your ex—yes, someone actually said that), here’s what seasoned cruisers say you can leave at home.
Q&A: What Not to Pack for Your Cruise
1. Can You Bring an Iron?
This one’s a big no. Irons and clothes steamers are banned on cruise ships because they’re a fire hazard. You won’t find one in your cabin either, and trying to sneak one onboard is a quick way to get flagged.
So how do you deal with wrinkles after unpacking? Roll your clothes instead of folding, and invest in some sturdy packing cubes.
And don’t skip the travel-sized bottle of Downy Wrinkle Release—it’s a cruiser’s secret weapon and works surprisingly well.
Bonus tip: Hang your clothes in the bathroom while you shower—the steam can help soften light wrinkles too.
2. Should You Bring Beach Towels?
Let’s bust a common myth right away—you do not need to pack beach towels for your cruise. Your cruise line provides them, not just for poolside lounging but even for shore excursions. Yep, you can take them off the ship!
The catch? Don’t lose them. Most cruise lines will charge you if the towel doesn’t make it back onboard, so double-check before heading to dinner with it still wrapped around your shoulders.
Cruise tip: Some people bring a bright beach clip to keep their towel from flying off a windy pool chair—but skip packing the whole towel.
3. How Many Outfits Do You Really Need?
Here’s the truth every experienced cruiser learns the hard way: you’ll probably wear only half of what you pack.
Think about your itinerary. On a Caribbean cruise, you’ll be in swimsuits and cover-ups most of the day. Evening wear? Casual sundresses or a nice shirt with linen pants will do just fine for most dinners.
Now about formal night—it still exists on many cruise lines, but it’s not as fancy as it used to be. A cocktail dress or collared shirt will do the trick. Check your cruise line’s dress code just in case.
Packing tip: You don’t need a different outfit for every day and every night. Mix and match pieces, and use accessories to switch things up.
4. Do You Need to Pack Hangers?
Unless you’re planning to open your own floating boutique, leave the hangers at home. Your cabin will come with a few, and if you need more (you probably will), just ask your room steward. They’re usually happy to bring a bunch of extras.
I always ask for 15–20 on the first day. Hanging up clothes not only keeps them organized, but it also helps them de-wrinkle naturally. Win-win.
5. Can You Bring a Hair Straightener or Curling Wand?
Good news—yes, you can bring your hair straightener, curling wand, or curling iron on a cruise. These beauty essentials are allowed onboard, and for many of us, they’re non-negotiable when getting ready for formal night or dinner in the main dining room.
Just remember: cruise cabins often have very few electrical outlets, and some don’t have any near the bathroom mirror.
To avoid a frustrating styling session, pack a non-surge protected power bar. It’ll help you plug in all your gear without tripping the cabin’s power limitations.
Cruise beauty tip: Bring a compact travel case for your styling tools to keep cords organized—especially handy in small cabin spaces.
6. What Toiletries Are Provided?
Wondering if you need to haul shampoo, conditioner, and shower gel in your luggage? The good news is: basic toiletries are included in most cruise cabins.
You’ll usually find soap or a 2-in-1 shampoo/conditioner combo in your bathroom. That said, if you’re picky about hair products (I have curly hair—so yes, I’m picky), bring your own.
My husband and kids are totally fine with the onboard options, but I’m loyal to my leave-in conditioner.
Cruise tip: If you’re staying in a suite, the toiletries are often fancier. Still, bring anything you can’t live without for your hair or skin routine.
7. Should You Bring Your Own Pillow?
If you’ve ever stayed at a bad hotel, you might be tempted to pack your trusty pillow from home. But on a cruise? Totally unnecessary.
Cruise ship bedding—pillows included—is surprisingly comfy. If you do find the mattress too firm or the pullout bed not ideal, just ask your steward for a foam topper. They often have egg crate-style toppers on hand for extra comfort.
Space saver: That pillow could take up half your carry-on. Trust the cruise bed—you’ll thank yourself later.
8. Are Hairdryers in the Cabin?
Yes! Cruise cabins come with hairdryers, usually stored in a drawer near the vanity. They’re not super powerful, but they get the job done.
If you need serious styling tools (hello, volume), bring your own compact hairdryer. I personally pack my BaByliss travel dryer and a curling wand—it fits in my toiletry bag and saves me from the frizz struggle.
Pro tip: Cabins often have only one outlet, so bring a non-surge power strip to plug everything in at once.
9. Should You Pack Snacks for the Kids?
Unless your kids are super picky eaters, you can probably skip packing extra snacks. Cruise ships offer more food than most of us know what to do with—including kid-friendly options like pizza, chicken tenders, fruit, and free soft-serve ice cream on demand.
That said, one smart mom tip comes from Melissa over at Family on Time Out. She packed ziplock baggies and had her kids grab a few buffet favorites—like Cheerios, cheese cubes, or cookies—for later.
It was a handy way to keep everyone happy between meals without needing to pack a snack bin from home.
Cruise hack: Those breakfast muffins or fruit cups double as great cabin snacks for post-swim hunger or early risers.
10. Do You Need to Bring a Yoga Mat or Gym Gear?
We all start with good intentions—“This is the cruise where I’ll finally hit the gym every day!” And if that’s you, awesome. But here’s what you don’t need: your own yoga mat or bulky exercise equipment.
Cruise ship gyms are impressively equipped. From treadmills and weights to yoga mats and fitness classes, they’ve got you covered. In fact, cruise ship gyms are often better than land-based hotel gyms.
Some classes are included in your fare, while others—like spin or Pilates—might have a small fee. Still, it’s way easier to just bring workout clothes and use what’s onboard.
Pro tip: Mornings are less crowded, so hit the gym early for a peaceful session with ocean views.
11. Is It Safe to Bring Expensive Jewelry?
This one’s tricky. Technically, yes—you can bring expensive jewelry. But should you? That depends.
Many cruisers leave the bling at home, worried about loss or theft. Others, like me, bring a few of their favorite pieces for formal night or just to feel a bit dressed up. After all, when else do I get to wear my pearl bracelet or cocktail ring?
If you decide to pack valuable jewelry, follow these safety tips:
- Use the cabin safe for your valuables when not in use.
- Keep them in your handbag (not checked luggage) when boarding.
- Avoid wearing them ashore, especially in busy ports or beach stops.
Alternative: Costume jewelry is a fun and stress-free option. A sparkly CZ ring or statement necklace can glam up any outfit—no worries attached.
Bonus: Funny (and Totally Real) Items NOT to Pack
When I asked cruisers on Facebook what they brought and didn’t need, the answers were gold. Yes, there were practical responses—but also some that had us laughing out loud.
Here are a few standouts:
- “Too many shoes” (guilty)
- “My in-laws” (no comment)
- “The kids” (harsh but fair?)
- “Half my closet—wore the same sundress every night”
- “My ex” (say no more)
Sometimes, it’s not about what you bring—it’s who you bring. 😉
A Few More Items You Actually Can’t Bring on a Cruise
In addition to things you don’t need, some items are strictly prohibited. Don’t try to sneak these onboard—they’ll be confiscated at embarkation:
- Weapons (guns, knives, pepper spray)
- Liquor (most lines allow a bottle or two of wine only—check the rules)
- Irons, steamers, or surge-protected power strips
- Candles or anything with an open flame
- Drones (on some cruise lines)
Always check your cruise line’s official list of banned items before packing.
Final Thoughts: What NOT to Pack for Your Cruise
There you have it—10 things you don’t need to pack (and a few you absolutely can’t). Whether it’s skipping the beach towels or leaving the 12 pairs of shoes at home, your suitcase—and your sanity—will thank you.
Cruises are all about relaxing and enjoying the moment. Packing smart helps you do just that.
Have you packed something on a past cruise that ended up being totally unnecessary? I’d love to hear your stories in the comments below!
Happy Cruising!
