Get packing for your next Caribbean cruise!

Table of contents

General packing tips
Clothing and accessories
Toiletries and personal care
Health and medications
Electronic devices and accessories
Travel documents
What not to pack

A trip to the Caribbean aboard a Princess® cruise; what could be more relaxing? But before you set sail, there’s the little issue of what to bring — and what to leave behind.

The good news is that packing doesn't have to be a stressful experience.  If you have a plan, packing will only take a short amount of time. And all that planning will seem worthwhile once the Caribbean Sea breeze is blowing through your hair and the tropical sun is caressing your skin.

Of course, when you think of how to pack for a cruise, thoughts of swimsuits, sunscreen and cameras come to mind. Want to know what to pack for a Caribbean cruise? Let's take a look.

Key takeaways

• Packing for a Caribbean cruise is all about versatility — lightweight clothes, a couple of swimsuits, comfy shoes and a dash of formal flair set you up for both beach days and elegant evenings
  
  
• Make space for the essentials: reef-safe sunscreen, personal medications, travel documents and chargers will keep you comfortable and worry-free on board and ashore
  
  
• Save room for the souvenirs you’ll find along the way by packing efficiently (think packing cubes, rolling clothes and bringing a foldable duffel)
  
  
• Bring what you’ll need for shore days (sun hat, backpack, water bottle) and be sure to review what kinds of items are best left at home
  
  
• With a bit of planning, you can breeze through packing and step into your Caribbean cruise ready for adventure, relaxation and plenty of memorable moments

General packing tips

Packing for a Caribbean cruise is a bit like prepping for an all-inclusive vacation — that also happens to be on the water. You’ll need everything from beachwear to dinner attire, all packed up and ready to go. The key is to pack efficiently, smartly and with a little wiggle room for the unexpected.

Whether you're planning a short escape, a full 7-day Caribbean cruise or even something longer, packing thoughtfully means you’re ready for whatever your adventure throws your way — snorkeling with sea turtles, dancing at theme nights, sipping mocktails on a lounger or dressing up for formal night under the stars.

So how do you fit all that adventure into one suitcase? Start by thinking about how long you’ll be sailing and what kind of experiences you’re most excited for.

Trip length considerations

Not every cruise is created equal — and neither are your packing needs. A 3-day jaunt to the Bahamas requires a very different suitcase strategy than a month-long voyage through Puerto Rico and the Panama Canal. The golden rule? Pack for the exact number of days you’re cruising plus one or two extra outfits. Because a surprise dinner invite or an unexpected spill happens more often than you’d think.

Here’s a quick breakdown:

• 3 to 5-day cruises
  Keep it light — one dressier outfit, 2-3 casual day looks, swimwear and sandals will usually do the trick. You probably won’t need more than one pair of evening shoes.
• 7-day Caribbean cruise packing list
  You’ll want more variety. Pack 2 outfits for formal nights, 4-5 daytime casual outfits and maybe 2 swimsuits. Toss in a sweater or light jacket for breezy nights or cooler indoor areas.
• 10+ days
  Aim for 6-7 casual outfits, 3 formal or semi-formal ensembles, a few swimsuits and maybe an extra pair of shoes. This is where layering pieces and mix-and-match sets really shine.

If you're someone who loves options (and really, who doesn’t?), prioritize lightweight fabrics and versatile pieces you can wear more than once.

Maximize packing space

It’s not just about what you pack — it’s how you pack it. Start by rolling your clothes instead of folding them. This simple swap saves space and helps cut down on wrinkles. Then, invest in packing cubes — they’re the secret weapon of seasoned cruisers. You can organize outfits by day or by type (casual, formal, swimwear, etc.) and compress your items to squeeze in a few extras.

Tuck smaller items inside shoes (hello, flip-flops stuffed with socks) and consider bringing a small laundry bag or compression bag for dirty clothes. Bonus tip? A few dryer sheets tucked into your suitcase can keep everything smelling fresh from departure day to disembarkation.

Clothing

When it comes to what to wear on a Caribbean cruise, think light, breezy and ready for anything. Your cruise wardrobe should cover every vibe — morning strolls on the lido deck, zip-lining through tropical canopies, enjoying lobster bisque at a white-tablecloth dinner or any other activities that strike your fancy.

What does that mean for your dress code? Mostly casual, occasionally classy. Here’s how to strike that perfect balance.

Casual wear

Most days onboard and ashore lean towards relaxed — think beach-chic meets comfort mode. You’ll want to pack:

• Shorts and tank tops for days spent exploring or lounging
• Lightweight sundresses you can throw on over a swimsuit or wear to lunch
• Breathable tops in cotton or linen — easy to dress up or down
• A couple pairs of comfortable pants or flowy skirts for cooler evenings or more conservative destinations

Choose pieces that play double duty — that tank top can go from breakfast to an afternoon excursion with just a change of shoes or accessories.

Formal wear

Ah, formal night — the unofficial fashion show at sea. It’s optional on most cruises, but why miss the chance to channel your inner movie star?

For women:

• A cocktail dress or elegant jumpsuit works beautifully
• Consider accessories like statement earrings or a shawl for a touch of flair

For men:

• A sport coat or suit jacket paired with slacks and a collared shirt will check every box
• Tie or no tie? That’s your call — most guests lean toward ‘relaxed refinement’

In any case, mix-and-match separates are your best friend here. A single jacket or black dress can be re-styled for multiple nights if you change up the details.

Swimwear

Here’s a packing rule to live by: One swimsuit is never enough. Pack at least two so you’ve always got a dry option. Swimsuits get a lot of wear in the Caribbean — beach days, pool time, hot tubs, snorkeling excursions — so you’ll be glad to have a rotation.

Don’t forget:

• Cover-ups or sarongs for walking around the ship or grabbing a bite
• A rash guard if you’re planning to snorkel or need extra sun protection

And if you’re eyeing that Instagram-worthy beach pic? Now’s the time to bring that statement suit.

Footwear and accessories

Footwear is where things can get heavy — literally — so choose wisely. You’ll want:

• A pair of comfortable sandals for onboard and beach time
• Walking shoes or sneakers for excursions or active days
• Optional: a pair of dress shoes for formal night — might be a nice touch, but keep them practical

As for accessories, go for useful:

• Sun hat or wide-brimmed cap
• Sunglasses (polarized if possible)
• A lightweight tote or crossbody bag for shore days

Skip the full jewelry box — it’s a cruise, not a red carpet. Stick to a few favorites that travel well and won't cause panic if they get misplaced.

Toiletries and personal care

Your Caribbean cruise packing list isn’t complete without the personal items that help you feel human after a long travel day or a sandy beach outing. Between saltwater, sun and the occasional seaspray, your routine might need a few extras — but that doesn’t mean you need to haul your entire bathroom cabinet aboard.

Let’s break it down by what you’ll use daily, what you might need in a pinch and the little convenience items that can make a big difference.

Personal hygiene

We’re not trying to insult you here — you obviously plan to bring your toothbrush. But you'd be surprised how often the everyday stuff gets overlooked in the excitement of cruise prep. So, make sure to double check that you’ve packed:

• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Deodorant
• Hair-care products
• Hairbrush or comb
• Razor and shaving cream

Now, for the cruise-specific additions:

• Reef-safe sunscreen (a must-have if you're swimming or snorkeling)
• After-sun lotion or aloe vera gel
• A lip balm with SPF, because sunburned lips are never a good time

Cruise ships provide basics (shampoo, conditioner and soap) in your stateroom, but if you’re picky about brands, you can always bring your own.

Travel first-aid kit

Accidents happen, so it’s never a bad idea to carry a compact first-aid kit with some basics. And while onboard medical services are available, having essentials at your fingertips is super handy — especially when you're off the ship exploring.

Include:

• Band-aids
• Antiseptic cream
• Aloe vera for minor burns
• Anti-itch cream for bug bites
• Pain relievers (like ibuprofen or acetaminophen)
• Cold or allergy medicine — tropical climates may stir up sensitivities in certain visitors, so be prepared

A small zippered pouch or travel case should be able to hold everything you need without taking up much space.

Convenience items

These little extras can make your cruise life even smoother:

• Wet wipes for quick cleanups on excursions
• Hand sanitizer (a must when you’re moving straight from beach to buffet)
• Nail clippers and tweezers
• Q-tips, cotton rounds or makeup wipes

Even a compact sewing kit or a few safety pins can save the day when something goes rogue with a hem or strap.

Health and medications

Wherever the cruise takes you, your body is along for the ride — so treat it well. A little pre-cruise planning when it comes to health needs can go a long way.

Personal medications

If you take prescription medications, pack them in their original, labeled containers. Not only does this help with airport or cruise terminal security, but it also ensures you’ve got the dosing instructions handy if needed. Practice smart med packing by:

• Bringing enough for your entire cruise — and then a few days extra (just in case)
• Storing meds in your carry-on bag so you’ll have access even before luggage delivery
• Packing a copy of your prescriptions (printed or digital) in case you need a refill in port while traveling
• Using a daily pill organizer to simplify your routine onboard

If you use EpiPens, insulin or other injectables, make sure to let the cruise line know in advance — there may be onboard storage options like mini-fridges in your stateroom.

Ship travel aids

Even if you’re not prone to motion sickness, packing something ‘just in case’ can save your cruise. While modern ships like those from Princess have top-tier stabilization, you might still feel the motion on rougher days or in open waters.

Consider packing:

• Anti-nausia wristbands
• Motion sickness tablets
• Ginger candies or chews — a tasty, natural option that many cruisers swear by

Also handy to have on board:

• Cold medicine or lozenges
• Antacids for post-buffet recovery
• Anti-diarrheal meds — not glamorous, but better than needing them and not having them

A small comfort kit like this can keep minor ailments from slowing you down.

Essentials

Don’t forget your wellness routine just because you’re in vacation mode. Pack any daily vitamins, supplements or specialty health items you use regularly. Staying healthy means you’ll have the energy to enjoy every excursion and every sunset cocktail.

Depending on your destination and current health recommendations, it might also make sense to pack:

• Travel insurance documents, especially if your coverage includes medical expenses
• Vaccination records (sometimes needed at specific ports) 

Having your health bases covered lets you focus on the fun — rather than the pharmaceuticals.

Electronic devices and accessories

Caribbean cruises are a great excuse to unplug — but let’s be honest, there are a few devices you won’t want to leave behind. From snapping underwater selfies to tuning out the sound of the plane engine pre-cruise, a bit of portable tech can seriously elevate your trip.

Devices

Here’s your device must-pack list:

• Smartphone for maps, communication, quick pics and checking daily cruise schedules
• E-reader or tablet (because dragging paperbacks poolside gets bulky fast)
• Noise-canceling headphones

If you plan to do a little work while at sea, a compact laptop might be worth bringing. Otherwise, keep it simple — less screen time, more sea time.

Charging

Cruise cabins may have limited outlets, so prep accordingly:

• Cruise-approved power strip
• Portable chargers
• Universal travel adapter if your cruise starts or ends internationally

Also smart: bring an extra charging cable (or two). One for the room, one for your backpack.

Photography

Capturing that golden-hour glow? Or maybe snorkeling with stingrays in crystal-clear water? You’ll want to be camera-ready. For that, consider packing:

• A smartphone with a waterproof case
• A waterproof action camera (like a GoPro) for high-energy activities
• Digital camera for higher-res photography or better zoom capabilities
• Extra memory cards and batteries (after all, paradise deserves more than one shot)

Don’t forget to back up your photos if you’re snapping tons of memories. A tiny flash drive or cloud storage access via Wi-Fi can help keep your favorite moments safe.

Travel documents

You’ve got your swimwear, your sandals, your favorite sundress… but none of it matters if you forget the paperwork. Before you even think about boarding, make sure you’ve got the right travel documents in the right place.

At minimum, you’ll need:

• Your valid passport
• Government-issued ID (like a driver’s license)
• Printed or digital cruise tickets
• Any applicable travel insurance info

It’s a good idea to make copies of these documents — both physical and digital — and store them separately from the originals. A slim travel wallet or a waterproof document pouch can make it easy to keep everything organized and handy.

Shore essentials

Caribbean excursions are among the most memorable experiences you’ll have on your voyage — and they deserve a little extra preparation. 

Here’s what you’ll want in as part of your day bag:

• A lightweight backpack or water-resistant tote that’s easy to carry
• Sun protection gear, including a hat, sunglasses and travel-size sunscreen
• A reusable water bottle (many ports don’t allow single-use plastics)
• A packable wet bag or dry bag for storing damp swimsuits, towels or gear
• Comfortable walking shoes or sandals with good grip
• A small amount of local currency or a credit card that works internationally, depending on where you're headed

Onboard essentials

When you’re not exploring new destinations, you’ll be spending plenty of time soaking up the sun, catching shows and enjoying the onboard amenities. A few thoughtful extras can really enhance your life at sea.

Consider tossing in:

• A reusable tumbler or insulated cup — great for iced tea by the pool or a late-night lemonade run
• A few favorite books or download a reading app for sea days when you want to kick back and relax
• A lanyard to keep your cruise card or Medallion handy for drinks, purchases and (perhaps most importantly) room access
• Comfortable, casual clothing for lounging and attending onboard events
• Themed outfit pieces for any special theme nights or parties; if you want to participate, check ahead and pack accordingly
• Magnetic hooks to hang wet swimsuits — they should attach to the metal walls of your cabin quite nicely!

Save some space

There’s one thing every seasoned cruiser learns: always save room for surprises. The Caribbean is packed with things you’ll want to bring home — and not just in your camera roll.

Here’s how to carve out some room for the good stuff:

• Leave a little breathing room in your suitcase — even just one half-empty packing cube can be a game-changer
• Bring a foldable duffel bag in your checked luggage, then use it as your souvenir hauler for the trip back
• Pack lightweight, compact clothing that can compress down (linen, jersey, wrinkle-free synthetics are great choices)
• Wear your bulkier items (like sneakers or jackets) during travel days to free up space in your bag

You don’t want to be that guest trying to cram three conch shells and a bottle of spiced rum into an overstuffed backpack at the airport. Trust us on this one.

What not to pack

Before you zip up your suitcase and pat yourself on the back, double-check that you haven’t packed anything that’s going to get flagged during embarkation. Cruise lines — including Princess — have very clear policies about what’s allowed on board.

Leave behind:

• Household appliances like irons, coffee makers or hot plates
• Alcohol (with the exception of permitted wine per Princess policy)
• Anything flammable, including candles and incense
• Weapons or sharp objects like knives or multi-tools
• Large coolers
• Over-the-top sports gear (they’ll have what you need on your excursions; leave the scuba tank at home)

And while it may be tempting to bring your entire haircare routine, stick to travel sizes or essentials. Ship cabins have limited space — and you’ll want to spend your time relaxing, not organizing serums on the bathroom counter.

For a full list of prohibited items, check out Princess Cruises’ FAQ so you’re not caught off guard at the terminal.

Pack your bags for a Caribbean paradise

So, what should be on your Caribbean cruise packing list? A little bit of everything — swimsuits, smart layers, everyday comforts and a sense of adventure. Regardless of cruise duration, packing with intention means you’ll be ready for whatever waits on the horizon.

Your cruise is more than a vacation — it’s an experience. And with the right items in your suitcase, you’ll be able to make the most of every moment.

Ready to get started? Learn more about Princess Caribbean cruises.