What to Pack for a Cruise (and What to Leave Home)

In your carry-on for embarkation day

• Your passport or other travel documents, and photo ID
• Your boarding documents and luggage tags
• A credit card for onboard charges
• Medications, a copy of your prescriptions, and anything you need for the first day

Medications

Bring enough for possible delays. The State Department notes that some medications legal in the U.S. are banned in other countries, so check the rules for your ports.

Commonly prohibited items

Every line has its own list. Two examples:

• Royal Caribbean prohibits clothing irons and garment steamers, and restricts extension cords, power strips and multi-plug outlets.
• Norwegian prohibits items with heating elements such as clothing irons, plus candles and incense burners.

Firearms, ammunition and pepper spray that are legal at home can be illegal in foreign ports. Check your cruise line's prohibited items list before you pack.