⚡Quick Summary
Packing for a Disney Cruise is exciting but can be overwhelming. This comprehensive checklist covers everything from must-have essentials to insider items that experienced cruisers swear by. Whether you're sailing to the Caribbean or Alaska, we've got you covered.
Documents & Essentials
- Passport (valid 6+ months beyond travel dates)
- Cruise documents and luggage tags
- Vaccination cards if required
- Credit/debit card for onboard account
- Travel insurance documentation
- Driver's license or ID
- Prescription medications in original bottles
Embarkation Day Bag (Carry-On)
Your checked luggage may not arrive until 3-4pm. Pack these items in a bag you carry onto the ship:
- Swimsuits for the whole family
- Sunscreen SPF 30+
- Phone, charger, and power bank
- Medications needed before evening
- Sunglasses and hats
- Light change of clothes
- Refillable water bottles
- Snacks for picky eaters
- Wine or beer (2 bottles/6 beers per adult)
Clothing - Caribbean/Bahamas Cruises
- Lightweight shorts and t-shirts (pack 1-2 per day)
- Swimsuits (2-3 per person)
- Cover-ups for dining after pool time
- Breathable sundresses or casual evening wear
- Pirate Night costume or red/black clothes
- Dress-up Night outfit (cocktail dress, khakis + button-down)
- Light jacket or cardigan (ships are cold!)
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Water shoes for Castaway Cay
- Flip flops for pool areas
Clothing - Alaska Cruises
- Layering pieces (base layers, fleece, outer shell)
- Waterproof rain jacket with hood
- Warm pants and jeans
- Waterproof hiking boots
- Gloves and warm hat
- Binoculars for wildlife viewing
- Formal wear for dress-up nights
- Warm pajamas (it gets cold at night!)
Cruise Essentials You Didn't Know You Needed
- Non-surge power strip (surge protectors prohibited)
- Magnetic hooks for stateroom walls (saves space!)
- Lanyard for Key to the World card
- Over-door shoe organizer for bathroom storage
- Poo-Pourri or bathroom spray
- Wrinkle release spray (no irons in rooms)
- Nightlight for bathroom trips
- Highlighters for marking Personal Navigator
- Gallon Ziploc bags for wet swimsuits
- Small day backpack for port adventures
For Kids
- Autograph book and thick markers
- Glow sticks and bracelets for deck parties
- Princess/pirate costumes if desired
- Favorite stuffed animal or comfort item
- Baby monitor (works in staterooms)
- Pre-printed coloring pages of Disney characters
- Stroller (ships have limited onboard strollers)
- Sound machine for nap time
Beach/Pool Bag
- Reef-safe sunscreen
- Waterproof phone pouch
- Beach towel clips
- Snorkel gear (Castaway Cay rentals available too)
- GoPro or waterproof camera
- Dry bag for electronics
Health & Toiletries
- Sea-Bands or motion sickness meds (free at Medical Center too)
- Pain relievers and first aid basics
- Hand sanitizer (also everywhere on ship)
- Preferred shampoo/conditioner (ship provides basics)
- Contact lens supplies
- Sunburn relief aloe gel
- Lip balm with SPF
What NOT to Pack
- Surge protectors (fire hazard, will be confiscated)
- Irons or steamers (prohibited)
- Hard liquor (wine/beer only)
- Weapons or sharp objects
- Drones (not allowed on ship or Castaway Cay)
- Extension cords (power strips OK)
- Candles or incense
Pro tip: Disney Cruise ships provide shampoo, conditioner, and body wash in all staterooms. Laundry facilities are available if you need to pack light. And remember - you can always buy forgotten items at the onboard shops!