I am thrilled to partner with Princess Cruises for this “What to Pack for a Caribbean Cruise Vacation” post. All photos and opinions remain, unless otherwise specified, my own.
The first time I went on a cruise I had no idea what to pack, so I threw a bit of everything into my suitcase to cover every possibility. Lugging that heavy bag through the house, to the car, and across the airport taught me a valuable lesson: overpacking makes travel harder. After several cruises, I’ve refined what’s truly necessary for a Caribbean cruise vacation and what you can comfortably leave at home.
There are very few items you won’t be able to find on the ship or in port if you forget them, so don’t stress—except over essential medications. At the end of this post you’ll find a printable packing list to simplify preparations.
What clothing and shoes should I pack for a Caribbean Cruise Vacation?
Pack versatile pieces you can layer. For a seven-day cruise I typically bring a couple of t-shirt dresses and two pairs of leggings. Leggings are great for the gym and can be layered under dresses for cooler evenings. T-shirt dresses work well in dining rooms and most casual ship venues.
I also pack a pair of jeans, hiking pants for excursions, and a casual skirt to pair with tops for evenings. Nicer t-shirts, tanks, or tunics are useful and a light sweatshirt or sweater is essential for cooler nights or indoor air-conditioning.
Shoes should prioritize comfort and stability. Avoid very high heels on a ship—opt for sandals like Tevas or Birkenstocks for walking and beach excursions, sneakers for on-foot tours and the gym, and flats or low wedges for dressier nights. For formal evenings, bring an outfit you’d wear to a nice restaurant; you can reuse the same one for both formal nights if you prefer. I usually pack a couple of cute dresses or dress slacks with a nice top.
Don’t forget pajamas, socks, and undergarments—socks are especially handy for hiking or cooler days. Bring at least two swimsuits so you can wear one while the other dries. I reserve my nicest suit for the adults-only relaxation areas.
Princess ships offer laundry facilities, so you don’t need a unique outfit for every day. If you forget something, most items are available in the onboard shops or at port.
What toiletries should I pack for a 7 Day Caribbean Cruise?
Shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and lotion are provided in staterooms, so you can leave bulky bottles at home if you want to travel light. If you prefer specific brands, pack small travel bottles. Feminine hygiene products are available on board but can be pricey—bring a small supply if you prefer to have your own.
If you use specific skincare products, pack them or indulge in a facial at the onboard spa, which carries a full Elemis line and other treatments. Manicures, pedicures, and men’s grooming services are also available, so you don’t need to bring nail polish or other salon supplies unless you prefer them.
Should I bring books on a 7 Day Caribbean Cruise?
Yes. While ships usually have a library, the selection can be limited. A fully loaded e-reader is ideal—stock it with several books before you board, since ship internet can be spotty. E-readers let you carry dozens of titles without extra weight and there are plenty of quiet nooks on board for uninterrupted reading time.
What kind of suitcases do I need for a Caribbean Cruise?
Choose luggage that fits in your stateroom storage and moves easily. A quality carry-on and a slightly larger checked or suitcase that nests under the bed are convenient and space-efficient. If you plan to return with souvenirs, either bring a larger bag or pack a lightweight foldable duffel to bring home purchases.
Should I pack anything else for a Caribbean Cruise?
Here are a few helpful extras I recommend:
- Walkie-talkies can be useful with kids if they don’t have smartphones; otherwise the ship’s messaging system handles onboard communication.
- Dry laundry strips or small travel detergent packets are handy for hand-washing delicates or quick loads in the ship’s launderette.
- Sunscreen with good SPF and waterproof protection is worth packing from home. Also bring basic medications like ibuprofen, acetaminophen, and bismuth chewables or liquid for stomach upset.
- Strong magnets and magnetic hooks help organize small staterooms—use them to hang schedules, hats, or accessories on the walls.
It’s unnecessary to pack snacks—meals and snacks are abundant on board, from casual options and a salad bar to sit-down dinners and room service. You’ll find something to enjoy at almost any hour.
The stateroom beds and linens on Princess Cruises are high quality, so there’s no need to bring pillows unless you have a very specific preference. Overall, you can pack light and still take full advantage of the ship’s amenities—from the gym and spa to pools, dining, and entertainment.
Here’s a What to Pack for a Caribbean Cruise Vacation Printable Packing List!
Use the printable list to check off essentials before you leave—medications, basic clothing, swimwear, comfortable shoes, chargers, sunscreen, and a book or e-reader will keep you prepared and relaxed for your Caribbean cruise vacation.