First Cruise Checklist

Everything You Need to Know (and Pack) Before You Sail

If this is your first cruise, welcome — you’ve already made the smartest move by landing here. Cruises are brilliantly easy once you know how they work, but that first one comes with a lot of questions.

This first cruise checklist walks you through what to do, what to pack, and what actually matters before embarkation day — without the overwhelm.

Whether you’re sailing from North America, the UK, or elsewhere, this guide will help you board calm, prepared, and ready to enjoy sail-away (not panic-buy toothpaste in the onboard shop).

Carry-On Essentials (Do Not Skip This)
Your checked suitcase might not reach your cabin for several hours. This bag is your lifeline.

Pack these in your carry-on:

• Passport + cruise documents

• Boarding pass / app confirmation

• Medications (all of them — never check these)

• Phone, charger, power bank

• Wallet with cards + a little cash

• Swimwear & flip-flops

• Sunglasses & sunscreen

• Any valuables or electronics

Pro Tip 💡 Pack your carry-on like your suitcase is going on a solo vacation without you.

👉 Read next: Carry-On Cruise Checklist 

Cruise Documents & Must-Dos

A few quick admin tasks now will save a lot of stress on embarkation day.

Before you leave home, make sure we’ve:

• Checked passport validity (many cruises require at least 6 months)

• Completed online check-in with the cruise line

• Uploaded any required documents

• Downloaded the cruise line’s app

• Printed luggage tags (or saved them digitally)

• Checked visa requirements for the itinerary

Pro Tip 💡 Screenshot your booking confirmation and boarding details. Port Wi-Fi is not the place to discover the app won’t load.

Cruise Packing Basics (What We Actually Need)

Overpacking is almost a rite of passage for first-time cruisers. We can skip that.

Clothing essentials

• Daytime outfits (mix-and-match works best)

• Evening outfits (check if your cruise has formal nights)

• Light jacket or layer

• Comfortable walking shoes

• Poolwear & cover-ups

• Sleepwear

Toiletries & health

• Travel-size toiletries

• Sunscreen & after-sun

• Motion sickness remedies (even if we “never get sick”)

• Pain relief & basic meds

• Glasses / contacts + spares

Pro Tip 💡 Laundry exists on most cruises. Packing for 5–7 days is usually enough, even on longer sailings.

👉 Full guide: Cruise Packing 

Tech, Power & Staying Charged

Cruise cabins are efficient… but not generous with sockets.

Bring:

• Multi-USB charger (non-surge protected)

• Power bank

• Phone cables

• Camera, tablet or e-reader

• International adapter if required

Pro Tip 💡 Most cruise lines ban surge-protected power strips. A simple USB hub is your best friend.

👉 Read next: Cruise Power & Adapters 

Money, Payments & Onboard Spending

Cruises are mostly cashless, but a little prep helps.

Things to know:

• Your onboard account is linked to a card

• Gratuities may be automatic or optional, depending on the cruise line

• Cash is useful for ports, taxis and tipping guides

• Currency depends on itinerary and cruise line

Pro Tip 💡 Set a rough daily spend limit in your head. Cruise charges add up quietly… like a polite but determined ninja.

Embarkation Day: Simple Timeline

Here’s what a smooth embarkation day usually looks like.

The night before

• Check documents one last time

• Attach luggage tags

• Pack carry-on last

Arrival at the port

• Arrive within your assigned check-in window

• Have documents ready

• Relax — the holiday has started

Once onboard

• Complete the muster drill early

• Grab lunch before crowds peak

• Explore the ship

• Book shows or dining if needed

Pro Tip 💡 Your cabin may not be ready immediately, but food and public areas absolutely are.

👉 Read next: Embarkation Day Guide

First Sea Day: What to Expect

Sea days are where cruising really shines — especially the first one.

Great ways to enjoy your first sea day:

• Sleep in and enjoy a slow morning

• Explore the ship properly (it’s quieter than embarkation day)

• Read the daily schedule and circle a few must-dos

• Try a class, trivia, or a show

• Find your favourite quiet spot

Pro Tip 💡 The first sea day sets the tone for the rest of the cruise. Don’t overschedule — let the ship work its magic.