Cruising with kids can be a wonderful family vacation. They are a great option because they are all-inclusive and usually quite affordable, but they require planning and preparation to ensure everyone has the best time possible. One of the most important aspects of preparing for a family cruise is deciding what to pack. Here are some cruise essentials you need to bring with kids, and what we think you can leave at home.
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What to Pack for a Family Cruise: Clothes Edition
When choosing what to pack for a family cruise, there are several questions you should ask yourself to ensure you have everything you need while also keeping your luggage light and manageable. Here are some questions to consider:
- What activities do we have planned?
Consider the activities you have planned for your family, such as swimming, hiking, or sightseeing, and pack appropriate clothing and gear. - What is the climate like?
Check the weather forecast for your destination and pack accordingly. Be sure to bring layers and rain gear in case of unexpected weather changes. - How many formal events will we attend?
If your cruise includes formal events, such as a Captain’s dinner or a gala night, make sure to pack formal attire for the whole family. - What is the dress code on the ship?
Check the dress code for your cruise line and pack accordingly. Some cruise lines have specific dress codes for certain areas of the ship, such as the dining room. - How long is our trip?
Consider the length of your cruise when packing. It’s a good idea to pack enough clothing for each family member for about a week and plan to do laundry if necessary (typically for longer cruises). - What is the baggage allowance?
Check the baggage allowance for your airline and cruise line and pack accordingly. It’s a good idea to weigh your luggage before leaving home to avoid excess baggage fees. - What are our entertainment options?
Consider what entertainment options are available on your ship. For example pools, spas, gyms, shows, activities, etc. You want to be prepared with the right options to take advantage of all the ship has to offer.
By asking yourself these questions, you can ensure that you have everything you need while also keeping your luggage light and manageable.
Other Items You Should Pack
- Travel Documents: Make sure to pack all necessary travel documents, such as passports, visas, and cruise boarding passes. It’s a good idea to keep these documents in a secure and easily accessible location.
- Toiletries: Pack all necessary toiletries, including sunscreen, insect repellent, and any medications your family members may need. Keep in mind that the cruise ship will most likely have shampoo, conditioner, and body wash so if you are aiming to save space you can leave those at home. I personally like to bring a small first aid kit in case of minor injuries but the boat will also have an infirmary for bigger needs.
- Entertainment: Pack games, books, and a toy or two to keep your kids entertained during downtime in the room. If you are bringing electronic devices consider downloading movies and shows in advance to avoid relying on the ship’s internet connection.
Specialty Items You Should Consider Packing:
- Insulated Water Bottles: There are many places to fill your water bottles all over the ship, these are great for use on the ship, but they are even more useful for keeping the family hydrated during the off boat excursions.
- Travel White Noise Machine: As a family with 6 kids that have different bedtimes, a white noise machine can definitely come in handy to help drown out older siblings and outside cruise ship noises.
- Magnet Hooks: These are small, don’t take up a lot of room when packing, and are super useful for hanging wet towels, bathing suits, and bags. Getting things off the floor and surfaces helps keep small spaces less cluttered. Plus, your items dry faster.
- Towel Clips: These are great for keeping the towels attached to the chairs on windy decks.
- Lanyard for Room Key: These are great for older kids with little independence to wander the ship and have their own key cards. Purchasing these on the boat is expensive.
- Crocs or Sandals: Basically bringing a pair of shoes that can get wet comes in really handy when you are on a ship.
- Drinks: If you aren’t planning on purchasing a drink package, check the cruise line policies for what you are allowed to bring on board with you. Some cruises allow you to bring wine and other beverages which is a great option if you are wanting to save a little money or if you have a favorite beverage that the cruise doesn’t have available.
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What to Leave at Home
- Valuables: It’s best to leave valuable items, such as jewelry and expensive electronics, at home. While cruise ships are generally safe, it’s always better to err on the side of caution.
- Too Many Clothes: Don’t overpack clothing items, as many cruise ships offer laundry facilities or laundry services for a fee. This can help you save space in your luggage and avoid the hassle of lugging around too much clothing.
- Large Strollers: While strollers are allowed on most cruise ships, it’s a good idea to avoid bringing large and bulky models. These can be difficult to maneuver in tight spaces, and may not fit in elevators or other areas of the ship.
- Too Much Cash: While it’s a good idea to bring some cash for tips and other expenses, it’s best to rely on credit or debit cards for most purchases. This can help you avoid the risk of losing cash or having it stolen.
As a mom of 6, I know firsthand that packing for a family cruise can be a challenge, but by bringing just the essentials and leaving unnecessary items at home, you will keep your room less cluttered, which will keep everyone much more comfortable and happy. I hope that by following these tips, you’ll feel well-prepared for packing for your next family cruise.
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