Caribbean Cruise Packing List

So you’ve booked your Caribbean cruise and are now wondering what to pack.

It can be a daunting task but I have helped by compiling the perfect Caribbean cruise packing list!

When preparing for a Caribbean cruise, it’s essential to pack for a variety of experiences, from beach days to formal nights.

Besides clothing, you’ll want to consider sun protection, camera gear, and more.

The Caribbean boasts warm temperatures year-round, with average highs ranging from 75°F to 85°F (24°C to 29°C), and even higher in the summer months.

While the days are sunny and tropical, evenings on the ship or in air-conditioned spaces can feel a bit cooler, so it’s wise to pack for both comfort and style.

Whether you’re spending your days lounging on the beach, exploring port towns, or attending formal dinners, this packing list for a Royal Caribbean cruise (or any cruise line) will ensure you’re prepared for every occasion.

I love cruising and have plenty of packing tips, so keep reading!

Caribbean Cruise Packing List

Top Clothing For Your Caribbean Cruise Packing List

Tops

On a packing list for a Caribbean cruise, you’ll need tops that can easily mix and match with shorts, skirts, or lightweight pants.

Cotton or linen tank tops and blouses are breathable and perfect for the hot, humid climate.

Consider packing a few button-up shirts for a more put-together look, or a sleeveless tunic to pair with your favorite pair of shorts for a chic, beachy outfit.

A lightweight long-sleeve blouse can also work for cooler evenings or a cover-up for sun protection while in port.

Bottoms

For a Caribbean cruise, lightweight bottoms are essential!

A pair of breathable shorts (think cotton, linen, or moisture-wicking material) will keep you comfortable during sightseeing or casual days at sea.

A flowy skirt is also a good choice for dinner or port excursions, offering both comfort and a bit of elegance.

If you plan on hiking or taking part in active excursions, lightweight, quick-dry pants or capris are a great option for the warmer days when you want coverage but still need something breathable.

Casual Dresses

A couple of versatile dresses are great for beach-to-dinner transitions or sightseeing in port towns.

A casual sundress is ideal for warm days spent exploring or lounging around the ship.

Alternatively, a flowy midi dress in a lightweight fabric offers comfort and a little more coverage, making it suitable for both daytime excursions and more relaxed dinners.

A wrap dress or A-line dress in a colorful print can easily be dressed up with accessories or worn casually depending on your day’s plans.

Swimsuits

Opt for a variety of styles so you can mix it up each day.

\Pick from a classic bikini for sunbathing, a supportive one-piece for water activities, or perhaps a tankini if you want a bit more coverage.

Having more than one ensures you always have a dry option available, plus you can change depending on your mood and the activity.

Whether you’re lounging by the pool, snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, or enjoying the beach at a port of call, having a good selection of swimsuits is key for comfort and fun.

Cover-ups

A lightweight, breathable cover-up is perfect for days when you want to go from the beach or pool to lunch or a walk on the deck without fully getting dressed.

Choose a cover-up made from cotton, chiffon, or a similar breathable fabric. A sarong is a classic option for quick changes.

This item is a must on your packing list for the Caribbean.

Activewear

A moisture-wicking tank top and leggings or shorts will ensure you stay comfortable during any physical activity.

Even if you don’t have active excursions planned, it’s always nice to have options for a light workout on board.

This 3-piece workout set includes a matching sports bra, shorts, and leggings. You’ll be prepared for anything with this interchanging outfit.

Light Sweater or Cardigan

Despite the Caribbean heat, it can get a bit chilly in air-conditioned areas on the ship or on cooler evenings at port.

A lightweight cardigan or sweater is what to bring for a cruise to keep you warm without making you overheat.

Choose a neutral color that pairs with most of your outfits, so you can easily layer it over your sundress, shirt, or pants.

This is especially useful for when you’re dining in the evenings or enjoying the ship’s entertainment.

Formal Wear

Most cruises feature formal nights, so it’s important to pack at least one dressy outfit for these special occasions.

A cocktail dress can be the perfect Caribbean cruise outfit for a formal dinner or shipboard event.

Want something more casual? An elegant jumpsuit like this off-the-shoulder option can easily be dressed up.

If you prefer something with a little more drama, a long maxi dress with a flowy silhouette is ideal.

Next, read my tips for surviving long international flights!

Top Shoes For Your Caribbean Cruise

Comfortable Walking Shoes

If you’re planning on exploring any ports of call or walking around the ship, comfortable walking shoes are an absolute must.

Choose a pair of supportive sneakers or slip-on flats that offer ample support for long walks.

Be sure to pack lightweight and breathable shoes to prevent your feet from getting too hot, especially if you’re touring outdoor markets or hiking up to a scenic viewpoint.

Sandals or Flip-Flops

For beach days, lounging by the pool, or quick trips to the deck, you’ll want a pair of sandals or flip-flops.

Waterproof options are best, as they’ll dry quickly after getting wet.

Flip-flops or slides are easy to slip on and off, especially if you’re transitioning between the pool and the beach.

You can also wear them for a casual dinner or walk around the ship without any fuss.

Dressy Sandals or Heels

On formal nights or for upscale dinners, a pair of dressy sandals or heels is essential.

Opt for something that’s not too high. Wedges or block heels are both fashionable and easier to walk in.

A metallic or neutral color, like gold or silver, pairs well with almost any formal outfit.

These strappy, wedge sandals can be worn for formal dinners or evening performances.

Extras to Pack For Your Caribbean Cruise

Sunglasses

Protecting your eyes from the strong Caribbean sun is a must!

Pack a pair of high-quality sunglasses with polarized lenses to reduce glare and protect against UV rays.

Sunglasses are perfect for beach days, outdoor excursions, or exploring port cities.

Choose a stylish pair that complements your face shape and outfits.

Larger frames can also help shield your eyes from the sun’s intensity while adding to your Caribbean cruise outfits.

Try out these oversized, black frames!

Sunglasses are one of the most important things to pack on a cruise!

You can pack a couple of pairs to change up your style each day or in case one pair breaks.

Hats

A wide-brimmed hat or a visor is a great addition to your Caribbean cruise packing list. It provides extra sun protection for your face and neck, especially on beach days or while walking around the ports.

A wide-brimmed straw hat adds a touch of glamour to your swimsuit or casual outfit, while a sporty visor is ideal for more active days.

Choose a hat that’s both stylish and functional to protect you from the sun’s harsh rays.

Scarf

Don’t forget to bring a stylish scarf or shawl to wear with your formal outfits or as an accessory for breezy evenings.

On sunny days, a lightweight scarf can protect your neck and shoulders from the sun.

A simple cotton or silk scarf packs up small and is one of the easiest things to bring on a cruise ship as a fashion accessory.

Sun Protection

The best time to go on a Caribbean cruise is whenever you can enjoy plenty of sunshine, but that means you need to protect your skin.

Pack a high-SPF sunscreen to prevent sunburn, and don’t forget lip balm with SPF to protect your lips.

If you plan on swimming in the ocean, I recommend this reef-safe sunscreen.

After a long day in the sun, soothing after-sun lotion with aloe vera will help restore your skin.

Medication & First-Aid

Don’t forget to pack any personal items you may need throughout the trip.

Bring along any prescription medications, over-the-counter remedies like motion sickness tablets, and basic hygiene items.

If motion sickness is something you are worried about, these anti-nausea wristbands are worth a try.

These non-drowsy motion sickness patches are an option too.

It’s also a good idea to carry a small first aid kit with essentials like band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers in case of any minor mishaps while exploring.

Reusable Water Bottle

A reusable water bottle is essential as you need to stay hydrated in the sunny Caribbean!

I love my Bobble water bottle. The 18.5-ounce size is the perfect fit for staying hydrated while exploring the Caribbean.

The replaceable carbon filters keep the water fresh and clean, no matter where you go.

If you’re flying to your Caribbean embarkation port, you might want to check out this collapsible water bottle. It’s super lightweight and easy to pack.

Insulated double-walled stainless steel flasks are another great option.

They come in so many colors, keeping your drinks cool while you enjoy the tropical sun.

Luggage and Bags for Your Caribbean Cruise

Luggage

When it comes to what to bring for a Caribbean cruise, deciding on luggage size and type is a personal choice.

For a tropical getaway, you’ll want to balance packing light for convenience while ensuring you have everything you need.

Whether you opt for a carry-on or checked luggage depends on how much you plan to bring, but for most cruises, a carry-on should suffice.

I have learned a few tricks on packing for extended trips using only a carry-on bag.

You can read my tips and tricks on how to pack lightly in just a carry-on.

For those traveling light, I recommend using packing cubes. These compact organizers keep your clothing neat and maximize your luggage space.

I use these Bagail packing cubes, which are a game-changer for keeping everything from sundresses to swimwear neatly packed.

If you prefer hard-shell luggage for durability, this hard-shell luggage set is lightweight, has TSA-approved locks, and comes in a variety of sizes and colors.

For a more flexible option, this spinner softshell luggage set is a great choice, offering easy maneuverability and plenty of space for all your vacation essentials.

For a cruise, you will also need some cute luggage tags!

Backpack/Daypack

While packing for your Caribbean cruise, you’ll need a daypack for your shore excursions.

Whether you’re hiking, shopping in port towns, or exploring local attractions, a lightweight backpack is perfect for holding your essentials.

If you’re flying to your cruise departure port, space can be limited in your luggage, so I recommend a packable, water-resistant backpack.

This one folds up into a tiny pouch, making it super easy to stash in your suitcase when not in use.

A Columbia’s daypack is a durable option for those looking for something a little sturdier.

Beach Bag or Tote

A large, lightweight beach bag is a must for carrying all your essentials to the pool or beach. Look for a waterproof option that can hold sunscreen, a towel, snacks, and a water bottle.

It should be spacious enough to hold all the necessary items but compact enough to easily carry from one activity to the next.

Best Camera Gear for a Caribbean Vacation

The Caribbean offers some of the most stunning scenery and vibrant culture in the world!

Whether you’re snapping photos of turquoise waters or exploring charming port towns, you’ll want to be prepared with the right camera gear.

Camera

A camera is one of the top things to bring for a cruise!

If you plan to capture the beauty of the islands, having a waterproof, shockproof camera is essential.

This camera is durable enough to handle any beachside mishaps and gives great shots of your cruise adventure both on land and underwater.

If you are really into photography, you can also pack a bigger DSLR, but I don’t suggest buying a new, expensive camera just for a cruise.

For families with kids, the Kodak kids digital camera with a lanyard is perfect for letting the little ones capture memories without worrying about damage.

GoPro

For underwater adventures or action-packed excursions like snorkeling or zip-lining, consider packing a GoPro Hero 12.

It’s waterproof, compact, and delivers stunning video quality, ensuring you don’t miss out on those unforgettable moments.

Selfie Stick and Tripod

Sometimes, it’s just easier to take a picture yourself! The FugeTek selfie-stick tripod is lightweight, portable, and comes with a built-in Bluetooth shutter.

It’s perfect for family photos or solo shots on the beach, especially if you’re traveling without a photographer.

Extra SD Cards

For all the photos and videos you’ll be creating, make sure you bring extra SD cards.

Depending on the camera you use, you can opt for a SanDisk 32GB micro SD card or a SanDisk 128GB Extreme PRO memory card.

Waterproof Phone Case

The Caribbean’s unpredictable weather can sometimes catch you off guard, and you’ll want to protect your phone from sudden downpours or the spray from water excursions.

This two-pack universal waterproof case is affordable, fits most phone models, and will keep your phone dry during beach outings or water sports.

With this Caribbean cruise packing list for women, you’ll be prepared for a variety of activities, from days spent lounging on the beach to evenings spent dining and dancing on the ship.

As long as you are prepared and know what to wear on a Caribbean cruise, you are sure to have a fantastic time full of memories