What Not to Pack for a Cruise?

The single biggest packing mistake on a cruise is bringing items that security will simply take away. Anything that could start a fire or interfere with the ship’s electrical system is banned, and that list catches a lot of travelers off guard. Leave the iron, the candles, the drone, and the surge-protector power strip at home, and don’t try to smuggle in extra alcohol.

Banned items that get confiscated

These show up in luggage scans at embarkation and are held until the end of the cruise, if you get them back at all:

• Irons and clothing steamers. Both are fire hazards. Cabins have no irons, but ships provide laundry or pressing services.
• Candles, incense, and anything with an open flame.
• Power strips or extension cords with surge protection. The surge component can trip the ship’s grounded system. A non-surge strip or USB hub is usually fine.
• Drones, on most lines, or at least restricted to checked storage.
• Excess alcohol. Lines allow a bottle or two of wine per cabin at most; beyond that it’s held at security.

Things that just waste suitcase space

Plenty of items aren’t banned, they’re simply pointless. A hair dryer is in nearly every cabin. Beach towels are provided, so don’t pack your own. You rarely need more than one or two dressy outfits, and most people overpack shoes. Bulky toiletries can be bought in travel sizes or borrowed from the cabin amenities.

Watch what you wear, too

Dress codes are casual by day but stricter at dinner. Skip swimwear, tank tops, and flip-flops in the main dining room, and don’t count on wearing gym shorts to a sit-down meal. Pack one outfit for formal or elegant night so you’re not turned away at the door.

A good rule: if it plugs in and heats up, has a flame, or is alcohol you’re trying to hide, it stays home. Everything else is about packing lighter, not packing more.

Related guides

Part of our Cruise Packing hub.