You’ve triple-checked your cruise packing list, right? Swimsuits packed, flip-flops ready, passport in hand? Well… even the most organized cruisers tend to forget a few key items — and it’s usually the little things that come back to haunt them.
From power strips to pants (yes, really), here are 35 surprisingly common cruise essentials people leave behind — and totally regret not having.
1. Passport or Government ID (And Why You Should Never Pack It in Your Checked Bag)
This might sound like a no-brainer, but it happens more than you’d think. Some cruisers accidentally tuck their passport into their checked luggage — and don’t realize it until they’re at the cruise terminal, unable to board.
Why it’s important:
You need valid ID to board the ship, and cruise lines won’t make exceptions. Forget it — or pack it in the wrong bag — and you could literally miss your entire cruise.
Pro tip: Keep your passport, ID, and cruise documents in a secure travel wallet or neck pouch that stays on you at all times.
2. Printed Cruise Documents (Even if You Use the App)
Yes, many cruise lines now offer digital boarding passes — but don’t assume your phone will always be accessible or the WiFi will cooperate.
Why it’s important:
Security staff may ask for your printed boarding information. If your phone dies or the app glitches, a physical copy saves time and stress at check-in.
Benefit: You’ll also have your port address and boarding time handy if you’re catching a ride or walking to the terminal.
3. A Proper Carry-On Bag for Embarkation Day
Your checked bags won’t arrive at your cabin until later in the afternoon — sometimes hours after boarding.
Why it’s important:
A carry-on bag lets you keep your essentials close. This should include medications, documents, a swimsuit, phone charger, and a change of clothes.
Added bonus: You can jump straight into pool mode or hit the buffet while everyone else is waiting on their luggage.
4. Luggage Tags (and the Right Holders for Your Cruise Line)
After online check-in, you’ll be prompted to print your cruise luggage tags. But just stapling paper to your suitcase isn’t enough — those tags often rip or fall off in transit.
Why it’s important:
If your luggage tag comes off, your bag could be delayed or even lost.
What to pack:
Invest in plastic luggage tag holders made for your specific cruise line (Carnival, Royal Caribbean, NCL, etc.). They’re waterproof, reusable, and make embarkation smoother.
5. Shore Excursion Confirmations
If you’ve booked excursions with the cruise line, great — it’ll be linked to your account. But if you used a local tour operator, don’t assume you’ll have data to pull up a confirmation email at the port.
Why it’s important:
Without proof of booking or contact info, you risk missing out — and potentially losing your payment.
Pro tip: Save a screenshot to your phone and print a backup copy with any meeting point instructions.
6. Lip Balm with SPF
Chapped lips are one of the most overlooked (and annoying) cruise complaints. Between wind, sun, and saltwater, your lips take a beating.
Why it’s important:
A good lip balm protects against painful dryness and sunburn, which can sneak up quickly on sea days.
Benefit: Comfortable, hydrated lips all cruise long. Bonus points if you pack an extra — they’re easy to lose!
7. Sunscreen (Especially Reef-Safe for Tropical Ports)
A lot of cruisers assume they’ll just pick some up onboard — but onboard shops won’t open until you sail away. And once they do, sunscreen can cost double or triple the usual price.
Why it’s important:
Sunburns happen fast at sea, especially with the ocean breeze masking the heat. Plus, many Caribbean ports require reef-safe sunscreen to protect marine life.
Benefit: You avoid burning on Day 1 and help preserve the coral reefs for future travelers.
8. Aloe Vera or After-Sun Lotion
Even if you’re religious about sunscreen, it’s easy to get a bit too much sun — especially near the equator.
Why it’s important:
Aloe vera soothes sunburns, cools irritated skin, and helps your skin heal faster. It’s a must-have after long beach days or pool lounging.
Benefit: Keeps you from spending your vacation red, sore, and hiding in the shade. A small bottle goes a long way!
9. Over-the-Counter Medication
Don’t rely on the ship’s store for everyday meds — they carry a limited (and pricey) selection.
Must-pack items:
- Pain relievers
- Cold & flu meds
- Antacids
- Motion sickness pills
- Digestive aids (Tums, Imodium)
Benefit: You’ll save money, avoid trips to the medical center, and have peace of mind knowing you’re covered if something hits.
10. Children’s Medication
Cruising with kids? Don’t forget to bring age-appropriate cold, fever, and allergy meds.
Why it’s important:
Children’s medicine can be very hard to find onboard, and visiting the ship’s infirmary often comes with a steep fee.
Benefit: You’ll avoid panic during those late-night “uh-oh” moments if your child suddenly spikes a fever or gets sick.
11. Blister Bandaids or First Aid Supplies
Even if you bring regular band-aids, many forget blister-specific ones — and end up with sore feet after long days exploring ports or walking the ship.
Why it’s important:
Blisters hurt — and can turn into infections if left untreated.
Benefit: Having the right type of bandage keeps you active and comfortable throughout the cruise. A few extras weigh almost nothing but can save your vacation.
12. Dress Code Clothing (Don’t Forget Pants!)
Many first-timers forget cruise dining rooms often have dress codes. Even casual nights may ban shorts in the main dining room.
👖 Real-life regret: One cruiser forgot to pack pants — and couldn’t dine in the MDR on most nights.
Why it’s important:
Even if you skip formal night, you’ll likely need a pair of nice pants or a simple dress for specialty restaurants or evening dining.
Benefit: You’ll avoid dress code issues and feel prepared for any surprise dinner invites or upscale venues onboard.
13. Socks (You’ll Need More Than You Think!)
Headed on a tropical cruise? You may assume flip-flops will be your go-to — but forget to pack socks, and you’ll regret it the moment you slip into sneakers.
Why it’s important:
Many ship activities, gym sessions, or shore excursions require proper footwear — and socks are a must. Even casual dress shoes can rub without them.
Benefit: Keeps your feet blister-free, prevents odor, and ensures you’re ready for any activity or dress code.
14. The Right Shoes for Activities Onboard
From ropes courses and rock climbing to zip lines and gym workouts — many ship activities require closed-toe shoes.
Why it’s important:
You (or your kids) may not be allowed to participate without proper footwear.
What to bring:
- Sneakers or athletic shoes
- Sandals or water shoes
- Dress shoes (for evening)
Benefit: You’ll stay safe, meet all activity requirements, and be able to explore ports comfortably.
15. Mini Laundry Detergent Packs
You may not plan to do laundry, but small spills, sweaty outfits, or wet swimsuits can pile up — fast.
Why it’s important:
Cruise ship laundry services can be shockingly expensive (think $45+ for a small batch). Doing a quick rinse in the sink or using a laundromat saves money and hassle.
Benefit: You can freshen up your clothes mid-cruise, pack lighter, and avoid overpaying for laundry.
16. Downy Wrinkle Release Spray
Cruise lines don’t allow irons or steamers in cabins — they’re fire hazards. So if your dinner outfit looks like it was wadded up in a suitcase… you’re out of luck.
Why it’s important:
You’ll likely want to look crisp for dinner or formal nights. Wrinkled clothing just doesn’t cut it — and paying for pressing service adds up fast.
Benefit: A travel-sized bottle of wrinkle release spray lets you quickly de-wrinkle outfits without leaving your cabin.
17. Laundry Stain Stick (Tide-to-Go or Similar)
Dinner on cruises = lots of buffets, rich sauces, and white tablecloths. It’s a recipe for spills.
Why it’s important:
Cruise dining is fabulous — but messy. If you stain your only nice outfit and don’t have a stain stick, you may have to shell out for cleaning or avoid wearing it again.
Benefit: A compact stain remover saves your favorite dress or shirt from being ruined on day one.
18. Power Bar with USB Outlets (Cruise-Approved Only!)
Most cruise cabins only have 1–2 power outlets. If you’re trying to charge phones, tablets, cameras, and maybe use a fan or hair tool — that’s not going to cut it.
Why it’s important:
A cruise-approved (non-surge protected) power bar gives you the flexibility to charge multiple devices at once.
Benefit: Keeps your cabin organized and your devices charged without fighting over outlets. Just make sure it’s non-surge protected — otherwise it will be confiscated.
19. Universal Travel Adapter
This one is easy to forget — especially if you’re just cruising, not going abroad. But many cruisers stay in a hotel pre- or post-cruise, often in a country with different plugs.
Why it’s important:
Some cruise ships also have European-style outlets alongside North American ones. A universal adapter can help you use all available sockets.
Benefit: Lets you use every available outlet, and ensures your devices work no matter where you’re traveling from or staying.
20. Towel Clips or Towel Bands
Ever tried to keep a towel on a lounge chair on a windy deck? It doesn’t work — unless you bring towel clips or bands.
Why it’s important:
Towel clips keep your towels from blowing away while you’re sunbathing or swimming. Bands are a slimmer, packable alternative.
Benefit: You stay dry and relaxed, and never chase a towel across the lido deck again.
21. Seasickness Medication
You may not get seasick… until you do. Even calm sailings can hit rough patches — and you don’t want to be caught off guard.
Top remedies:
- Bonine (non-drowsy)
- Dramamine
- Ginger chews or capsules
- Sea-Bands
Benefit: You’ll avoid nausea, headaches, and downtime — even if the ship hits a swell or you’re sensitive to motion.
22. Credit Card & Small Bills
Even if you plan to use a travel card or cruise account, bring a credit card for emergencies and small bills for tipping.
Why it’s important:
Local shops, taxis, and port staff often don’t accept cards — and some countries prefer U.S. dollars in small denominations.
Benefit: Keeps you prepared for tips, small purchases, or unexpected expenses in ports or during travel days.
23. Refillable Water Bottle
Hydration matters — especially in the sun or when exploring hot cruise ports. But bottled water onboard can get pricey, and bringing your own is often restricted.
Why it’s important:
A refillable water bottle can be filled at buffets, cafes, or with room service ice water.
Benefit: Saves money, keeps you hydrated, and is eco-friendly. Opt for an insulated version to keep your drinks cold on port days.
24. Ziplock Baggies & Small Containers
These are the ultimate cruise organizers. From storing snacks to keeping small items together, they do way more than you’d expect.
Why it’s important:
They keep your items dry, separate, and accessible — whether it’s medications, jewelry, sunscreen, or electronics.
Ways to use them:
- Protect electronics from water on excursions
- Pack snacks for kids (check port food rules)
- Organize small first aid items or hair accessories
Benefit: Inexpensive, lightweight, and endlessly useful — they’ll save you from clutter and spills.
25. Extra Phone Charger Wire
Who hasn’t forgotten or lost a charger on vacation? And let’s face it — cruise ships and airport gift shops charge a premium for replacements.
Why it’s important:
Phones are your camera, planner, alarm clock, and contact with home — and losing charging ability is a huge hassle.
Benefit: An extra charger means peace of mind (and zero panic when someone “borrows” your only cord).
💡 Bonus tip: Pack an extra-long cord for charging at night — many cabin outlets are in awkward places.
26. Reading Glasses & Sunglasses
Two of the easiest things to forget… and two of the most annoying to live without.
Why it’s important:
You’ll need your readers for menus, shore excursion forms, and daily cruise planners. Sunglasses are critical for sunny days on deck or port visits.
Benefit: Better visibility, fewer headaches, and no squinting in group selfies. Bring backups if you can — they break or vanish easily.
27. A Bathing Suit (and Cover-Up!)
Yes, people forget this. Either they leave it at home or pack it in their checked bag, meaning it’s unavailable when they want to hit the pool on Day 1.
Why it’s important:
The pools and hot tubs are open right after boarding, and a dry suit can take a full day to air out.
Benefit: Bring at least two bathing suits so you’re never stuck waiting for one to dry. Don’t forget a light cover-up for walking around the ship or port.
28. Magnetic Hooks
Most cruise cabin walls are metal, which means… magnetic hooks can instantly create extra hanging space!
Why it’s important:
Cruise cabins are tight. These hooks are lifesavers for lanyards, wet swimsuits, hats, and excursion bags.
Benefit: Keeps your cabin organized and your stuff off the floor — without damaging any surfaces.
29. Nightlight (Especially for Inside Cabins)
Cruise cabins — particularly interior ones — get completely dark at night. No windows. No glow. Just pitch black.
Why it’s important:
Navigating to the bathroom without bumping your shin or waking your partner is no fun in total darkness.
Benefit: A small plug-in or battery-powered nightlight makes late-night trips safer and more convenient. Ideal for families, too!
💡 Bonus tip: Many USB nightlights work great if you’re also using a power cube with USB slots.
30. Portable Fan or Clip-On Fan
Some cabins — especially inside ones — can feel a bit warm or stuffy, depending on ship ventilation and temperature control.
Why it’s important:
A compact fan helps circulate air and keeps things cool while you sleep. It also acts as white noise to drown out hallway or neighbor sounds.
Benefit: Better sleep, better mood. Light sleepers especially swear by bringing a small personal fan on every cruise.
31. Packable Sun Hat
The sun at sea is stronger than you think, and your face, ears, and neck can burn quickly.
Why it’s important:
A wide-brimmed or packable hat offers shade during long beach days or hot port tours.
Benefit: Prevents sunburn and heat exhaustion, especially during Caribbean or Mediterranean sailings. And it’s way cheaper than buying one at the ship’s gift shop.
🧢 Look for one that’s crush-proof or rolls up easily in your luggage.
32. Hand Sanitizer and Disinfectant Wipes
Yes, ships have sanitizing stations — but they’re not everywhere. From plane rides to public transport in port, you’ll run into plenty of shared surfaces.
Why it’s important:
Cruise ships are closed environments where colds, stomach bugs, and germs can spread fast — especially at buffets, elevators, and railings.
Benefit: Keeping a small bottle of sanitizer and a travel pack of wipes helps you stay healthy and avoid downtime. Use them before eating, after touching menus, or when you can’t wash your hands right away.
33. Highlighters & Post-It Notes
These old-school items are surprisingly handy onboard.
Why it’s important:
Use highlighters to mark can’t-miss events in your daily cruise planner, and sticky notes to leave messages for family (especially if you’re not using Wi-Fi).
Benefit: Keeps everyone organized and in sync — especially useful when cruising with kids or in groups.
💡 Cruise hack: Use sticky notes to label who owns what in shared drawers or cabin closets.
34. Portable Battery Packs for On-the-Go Charging
Your phone is your camera, map, translator, and boarding pass — and if the battery dies mid-excursion, you’re stuck.
Why it’s important:
Most cruise ports don’t have easily accessible charging stations, and you’ll use your phone a lot while sightseeing, taking photos, or navigating.
Benefit: A portable battery pack keeps your phone charged all day. Look for a lightweight, pocket-sized model that holds at least 2 full charges. Bonus if it has dual ports for charging multiple devices at once!
35. Snack Bars or Small Non-Perishable Snacks
Cruise ships are known for unlimited food… but on port days or early excursions, hunger can sneak up fast.
Why it’s important:
You can’t always count on a restaurant stop, especially on early morning tours. And it’s illegal to take most fresh foods (like fruit or meat) off the ship.
Benefit: Individually wrapped protein bars, granola bars, or trail mix are perfect for shore days or long excursions. They’ll hold you over until your next big cruise meal — and they’re especially helpful for kids and diabetics.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Let a Missing Item Sink Your Vacation
Even veteran cruisers forget things. But with this list, you’ll avoid the classic “oh no!” moments and enjoy smooth sailing from the moment you step onboard.
🎯 Want to be fully prepared?
- ✅ Print this list
- ✅ Save it to your phone
- ✅ Use it to double-check before you zip that suitcase shut
Have you ever forgotten something important on a cruise? Share it in the comments — your story might help someone else avoid the same mistake!
