The Ultimate Cruise Ship Packing List for Crew (2026 Edition)

Introduction

You are about to move into a cabin the size of a walk-in closet, potentially sharing it with a stranger for six months. Overpacking is the rookie’s biggest mistake.

New crew members often make the error of packing for a "vacation" rather than a "contract." The reality is that you will be wearing a uniform 10 to 12 hours a day, and you will have very limited storage space—usually just one small locker and a few drawers.

The Golden Rule of packing for a cruise ship job is simple: If you can’t lift your suitcase over your head, it’s too heavy. Remember, you will likely have to carry your own luggage up a steep, narrow gangway when you board the ship.

In this guide, we break down exactly what you need for your first contract in 2025, and more importantly, what will get confiscated by security if you try to bring it on board.

1. The "Golden Pouch" (Documents)

Before you pack a single T-shirt, you must organize your paperwork. Without these physical documents, you will not be allowed to board the ship. Do not pack these in your checked luggage; keep them in a carry-on folder or "Golden Pouch" that stays with you at all times.

• Passport: Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your contract end date.
• C1/D Visa: The original foil in your passport (or the physical card).
• Letter of Employment (LOE): You may need to show this to immigration officers.
• Medical Certificate (PEME): The original "Fit for Duty" form signed by the doctor.
• Yellow Fever Card: Mandatory for many Latin American crew members.
• Police Clearance Certificate: The original copy.

Pro Tip: Take clear photos of every single document and email them to yourself or save them to Google Drive before you leave the airport. If you lose your physical folder, having high-quality digital copies can save your job. (Read more about the costs of these documents in our Cruise Ship Salaries & Costs 2025 Guide).

2. Clothing (The 7-Day Rule)

You do not need 10 pairs of jeans. Since you are in uniform most of the time, you only need enough "civilian" clothes for your time off in port.

• Uniform Basics: Bring at least 10 pairs of black socks. The ones issued by the ship are often cheap and uncomfortable.
• Shoes: Most roles require black, polishable, non-slip shoes. Buy a high-quality pair (like Skechers or Clarks) before you leave. You will be standing for 10+ hours a day, and cheap shoes will ruin your back.
• Port Clothes: Pack for 7 days of rotation: 3-4 T-shirts, 2 pairs of shorts/jeans, and maybe one nice outfit for dinner ashore.
• Smart Casual: Bring one "nice" outfit (collared shirt or dress) for crew parties or events in the crew bar.
• The "Cold" Gear: Bring 1 hoodie or light jacket. Even if you are sailing in the Caribbean, the air conditioning inside the ship is often freezing.

3. Toiletries (Bring vs. Buy)

Do not pack six months' worth of shampoo. It takes up too much weight.

The Strategy: Pack enough toiletries to last you the first 2-3 weeks. Once you get your first shore leave, you can go to a Walmart or local supermarket in port and stock up on full-sized bottles for cheap.

• Must-Haves: Deodorant (ship stores often run out or have limited selection), a good razor, and a toothbrush.
• For Ladies: Bring a robust supply of feminine hygiene products. The selection on board is often expensive and limited to one or two brands.

4. Electronics (The "Surge Protector" Trap)

This is the #1 reason crew luggage gets held at security. If you pack the wrong power strip, it will be confiscated, and you won’t get it back until the end of your contract.

The Golden Rule: Never bring a standard power strip from home. Cruise ship electrical systems are different from residential houses (they use a "floating neutral" system). Standard home surge protectors try to "correct" the ship's electricity, which causes them to overheat and catch fire.

What to Buy Instead:

• Non-Surge Protected Power Strip: You must specifically look for a strip that says "Non-Surge" on the packaging.
• No Extension Cords: Most lines (especially Royal Caribbean and Carnival) now ban extension cords of any kind. You need a "Wall Tap" or "Multi-Plug" that sits flush against the wall outlet without a long cable.
• USB Hubs are Best: Since most of your gear is likely USB (phone, Kindle, headphones), a simple 5-port USB desktop charger is the safest option. It rarely gets confiscated and saves you from fighting with roommates over the one European outlet in the cabin.

5. Medicine Chest

The ship has a medical center, but it is not a pharmacy. For minor issues, you want your own supply so you don't have to wait in line.

• Sea Sickness Pills: Buy "Non-Drowsy" Dramamine or Bonine. The shot the doctor gives you will put you to sleep, and you can't work while sleeping.
• Painkillers: Ibuprofen or Paracetamol for long shifts.
• Cold/Flu: DayQuil or similar cold medicine (that does not make you drowsy).
• Vitamins: Fresh fruit can sometimes be limited in the crew mess; a daily multivitamin helps keep your immune system strong.

6. What NOT To Bring (The Banned List)

Security scanners will spot these items immediately. Leave them at home:

• Irons or Steamers: Strict fire hazard. There are crew laundry rooms with irons you can use.
• Candles or Incense: Anything with an open flame is forbidden.
• Knives or Weapons: Even a small pocket knife can cause issues.
• Alcohol: You generally cannot bring your own alcohol on board. You can buy it at the crew bar for very cheap (often $1-$2 per drink).
• Camouflage Clothing: If you are sailing to the Caribbean (Barbados, Jamaica, St. Lucia), camouflage clothing is illegal for civilians to wear. Leave the camo shorts at home.

Conclusion

Packing for your first contract is about efficiency. Every kilogram counts. Focus on comfortable shoes, the right documents, and "non-surge" electronics. Remember, you can buy almost anything else you need in port.

Safe travels, and we will see you on board!