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Don't set sail without these 17 cruise essentials
By Christopher Murray
Published October 17, 2025
These cruise essentials will help you be prepared and relaxed for your whole trip. (iStock)
Whether you're heading to the Caribbean or taking an Alaskan cruise, packing the right necessities means thinking beyond just swimsuits and sunscreen. Our list has all the travel essentials you'll need on your cruise trip, as well as some fun extras that can help you relax even more.
Luggage
Packing for your cruise vacation starts with the right luggage. Here are different luggage options for every traveler.
Solgaard check-in closet original: $395
Organize your belongings in this closet-like suitcase. (Solgaard)
Solgaard makes a large, expandable suitcase that can easily fit all your belongings. It's a hardshell suitcase with a built-in shelving system that helps you separate your items. The 360-degree wheels and TSA-approved lock make it easy to maneuver your suitcase while keeping it secure.
Samsonite hardside expandable luggage: $149.99 (21% off)
Original price: $189.99
This durable, hardshell suitcase is scratch-resistant. (Amazon)
Samsonite's hardshell luggage expands to fit more items. Made from a scratch-resistant material, this luggage will last for years, even if you're a frequent traveler. The side-mounted TSA locks stop theft and ensure your belongings stay safe while you travel.
5-piece suitcase set: $119.99 (29% off)
Original price: $169.99
This set comes with five pieces of luggage, including a carry-on and a toiletry bag. (Amazon)
This five-piece set on Amazon includes a large 28-inch suitcase, a 24-inch suitcase, a 20-inch carry-on, a duffle bag and a toiletry bag. The duffle and toiletry bag are made from water-resistant fabric, perfect for a cruise. Each bag has a TSA-approved lock for added security.
Clothing
Cruises include lounging time as well as classy dinners where it's recommended that you dress nice. Here are some key clothing items you should bring with you on your next cruise.
CUPSHE women's ruffled one-piece swimsuit: $39.99 (20% off)
Original price: $49.99
This is sure to be your new favorite swimsuit. (Amazon)
The Cupshe women’s swimsuit comes in so many colors and patterns that every woman can find an option that works for her style. Plus, certain colors are currently on sale. Fair Harbor also has plenty of unique bathing suit options for men.
Old Navy flip-flops: $4.99
These low-cost sandals come in all different colors. (Old Navy)
When you’re on deck, a pair of flip-flops will be the perfect footwear you can slip on as you go from activity to activity. Old Navy has a variety of colors and offers one of the most affordable sandal choices.
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Women's 2-piece sweatsuit: $41.99 (25% off)
Original price: $55.99
Stay comfortable your entire trip with this sweatpants-and-sweatshirt combo. (Amazon)
When you’re on a cruise, you want to be as comfy as possible. A sweatshirt and sweatpants combo is the perfect attire. These Automet two-piece sweatsuits come in a variety of fun colors. For men's sweatsuit options, check out this affordable set from Walmart.
Toiletries
Just like traveling anywhere, you need the right toiletries with you. Not all cruise lines have complementary toiletries on board, so make sure you're prepared.
Neutrogena sunscreen lotion SPF 45: $16.98
Keep yourself from getting sunburned with SPF 45. (Amazon)
Sunscreen is a must when traveling anywhere, but particularly on a cruise where you are out in the sun for hours. This Neutrogena two-pack includes easily packable bottles of SPF 45 sunscreen.
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9-piece toiletries kit: $12.49 (8% off)
Original price: $13.60
Get all your toiletries in one kit. (Amazon)
Some cruise lines provide toiletries, but not all of them. Be sure to pack your own toiletries just in case. This nine-piece toiletry kit has everything you’ll need, from a toothbrush and toothpaste to deodorant, shampoo and conditioner.
Mini first aid kit: $8.91 (5% off)
Make sure you're prepared with a mini first aid kit. (Amazon)
Doctors are likely on board the boat, but having a mini-first aid kit can help you deal with minor emergencies. The General Medi mini first aid kit has more than 100 pieces and is easily packable. Find fun mini first aid kits like the Happy Wanderer kit at Walmart.
Electronics
When you're out at sea, make sure you have all the comforts of home by bringing these electronics.
Airplane phone holder: $12.49
Get caught up on your favorite shows with this phone holder for the airplane. (Amazon)
Long plane rides can be tough to deal with. An airplane phone holder can help you watch TikToks, TV shows or even work (if you must) while remaining hands-free.
4-in-1 watch and phone charger cable: $16.75
Charge all your electronics at once. (Amazon)
You can use this four-in-one phone charger for all your devices at once, without having to pack a dozen cords. Charge your phone, Apple Watch and get an extra USB for other tech.
Noise-canceling headphones: $249.95 (29% off)
Original price: $349.99
Block out all noise with these headphones. (Amazon)
Headphones help you tune out the surrounding noise from all the people on the cruise. Beats wireless Bluetooth headphones are a favorite for anyone looking for a true noise-canceling experience. These Movssou headphones are affordable and come in a variety of colors. Raycon also offers luxurious noise-canceling headphones.
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Rest and relaxation
The whole point of a cruise is to relax and get some much-needed rest. These items can help you do that.
Cotton oversized beach towel: $29.98
A giant beach towel is the perfect thing to relax on by the pool or on the beach. (Amazon)
Whether you’re going to the pool or taking a dip in the ocean, the perfect beach towel will help you stay comfortable. These oversized beach towels are made from cotton for added comfort. Looking for a more stylish beach towel? Slowtide has many unique designs.
Nintendo Switch: $322.99 (5% off)
Original price: $339.99
Bring your gaming system with you. (Amazon)
A Nintendo Switch is like a portable gaming system that provides hours of fun when you’re trying to relax. It's small enough to pack in your suitcase and gives you access to hundreds of games all in one device.
Portable handheld fan: $12.99 (24% off)
Original price: $16.99
Stay cool with a handheld fan. (Amazon)
If your cruise is somewhere hot, you’ll be grateful for a portable handheld fan. The fan is rechargeable and lasts four to 18 hours, depending on the speed you set it to. Walmart also has travel-size handheld fans you can pack in your purse or fit in your pocket.
Excursions
Every cruise has days of excursions, so be prepared to head out on the town with these items.
Walking shoes: $84.98 (29% off)
Original price: $119
Keep your feet comfortable with these shoes. (Amazon)
Even though you’re on a cruise, there will be times when you get off the boat and visit the cities you’re docked in. You’ll want to make sure you’re equipped with a good pair of walking shoes — these Skechers slip-ins are the perfect comfortable, simple shoe you’ll love. Plus, you can just slip them on whether you're heading off the boat or heading to the buffet.
A good pair of New Balances are also back in style. They’re comfy and have always been the perfect walking shoe.
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Beach bag: $14.99 (6% off)
Original price: $15.99
Carry everything you need on your outings with a giant beach bag. (Amazon)
When you leave the boat, you need a bag to carry all your belongings and goodies you buy when you're shopping. A beach bag can fit any extra clothes, a beach towel and all your valuables in one stylish bag.
This Becokan beach bag can hold up to six beach towels, and comes with side pockets for even more additional storage. A Bogg bag is another popular option, thanks to the dozens of fun, bright colors and the sheer storage space the bag offers.
If you’re an Amazon Prime member, you can get these items to your door ASAP. You can join or start a 30-day free trial to start your shopping today.
https://www.foxnews.com/deals/travel-essentials-for-first-cruise