Stop Overpacking! Things You Can Skip Bringing on Your Cruise

Your Guide to Saving Space, Reducing Stress & Packing Smarter for Smooth Sailing

Packing for a cruise can feel a little like preparing for a vacation and a fashion show at the same time. Between swimsuits, outfits, gadgets, and “just in case” items, it’s easy to end up packing half the house.

But here’s the truth: most new cruisers bring way more than they ever use.After years of helping travelers get cruise-ready—and reading countless funny stories from our Cool Panda community—I’ve learned exactly what doesn’t need to go in your suitcase.

If you’re ready to save space, skip the stress, and avoid packing your ex (yes… someone really said that), here are 11 things you can confidently leave at home.

1. Irons & Clothing Steamers

Irons and steamers are a hard “no” on cruise ships due to fire safety rules. They won't be in your cabin either, so don’t try sneaking one aboard.

Better solutions:

• Roll your clothes when packing

• Use packing cubes

• Bring a travel-sized wrinkle-release spray

• Hang clothes in the bathroom while you shower—the steam helps!

Your outfits will survive just fine without the appliance.

2. Beach Towels

No need to stuff giant towels into your suitcase. Every cruise line provides beach and pool towels, and you can even take them ashore for excursions.

Just remember: return them.Most cruise lines charge if a towel goes missing, so keep track of yours after a beach day.

3. A Full Closet of Outfits

Here’s one of the biggest packing shockers: you won’t wear half of what you bring.

On warm-weather sailings, most of your day is spent in swimsuits or comfy clothes. Evenings are casual on most lines—think sundresses, polos, and lightweight pants.

Formal night? It’s usually not as fancy as people expect. A simple cocktail dress or a nice button-down works perfectly.

Pack this way instead:

• Choose mix-and-match outfits

• Repeat pieces (no one cares!)

• Add accessories to switch things up

Your suitcase—and your back—will thank you.

4. Extra Hangers

Your cabin comes with hangers, and if you need more, your room steward will happily bring extras. No need to haul a bundle from home unless you’re planning a floating fashion boutique.

5. Hair Straighteners & Curling Tools

Good news: these ARE allowed on board.

What can be tricky is cabin outlets. Many rooms have only one or two plugs, and not always near the mirror.

Bring a non-surge protected power strip or cube so you’re not wrestling over outlets while trying to get ready for dinner.

6. Full Toiletry Bottles

Cruise bathrooms come stocked with basic toiletries—usually soap and a shampoo/conditioner combo.

If you’re picky about products (curly-hair travelers, I see you!), bring your favorites in travel sizes.

Suites often have upgraded toiletries, but it’s still best to pack anything that's part of your must-have daily routine.

7. Your Pillow From Home

If you’ve ever regretted a hotel pillow, you might think about packing your own—but cruise ship pillows are surprisingly comfortable.

If the bed feels too firm, ask your steward for a mattress topper. They often have foam or egg-crate toppers available.

And yes… that pillow will take up half your suitcase. Leave it at home.

8. Hairdryers

Every cabin has a hairdryer, usually tucked in a vanity drawer. They aren’t salon-grade, but they work!

If you rely on a high-powered dryer, feel free to bring your own compact version.

Just remember: outlets are limited, so pair it with a non-surge power cube.

9. Snacks for the Kids

Unless your kids only eat three specific crackers shaped like dinosaurs, skip packing snack bags.

Cruise ships have:

• Pizza

• Ice cream

• Fruit

• Pastries

• Sandwiches

• Chicken tenders

And that’s just before noon.

A clever parent tip: bring a few zip-top bags. Let your kids snag cereal, cheese cubes, or cookies from the buffet for later.

10. Yoga Mats & Fitness Equipment

If you’re planning to hit the gym (and truly mean it—many don’t!), there’s no reason to bring a yoga mat or gear.

Cruise ship gyms are excellent and usually include:

• Mats

• Weights

• Treadmills

• Fitness classes

• Stretching areas

Just pack comfy workout clothes and enjoy those ocean-view treadmills!

Morning workouts are less crowded if you want peace and quiet.

11. Expensive Jewelry

You can bring valuable jewelry… but think twice.

Cruises are safe, but things happen: a missing earring, a necklace left by the pool, a ring forgotten in the bathroom.

Most cruisers choose costume jewelry for the trip—fun, stylish, and zero stress.

If you do bring nice pieces:

• Keep them in your carry-on

• Store them in your cabin safe

• Avoid wearing flashy items in crowded ports

Bonus: Hilarious Items Cruisers Say They Shouldn’t Have Packed

When we asked seasoned cruisers what they regretted packing, the answers were priceless:

• “Ten pairs of shoes.”

• “My in-laws.”

• “Half my closet.”

• “The kids.”

• “My ex.” (No comment.)

Sometimes the best packing tip is simple: only bring what makes your vacation better!

Things You Absolutely Cannot Bring Onboard

Cruise lines will confiscate these at embarkation:

• Irons, steamers, and surge-protected power strips

• Any weapon (even pepper spray)

• Candles or anything with open flames

• Most drones

• Hard liquor (restrictions vary by cruise line)

• 
  

Always check your cruise line’s official prohibited list before packing.

Final Thoughts: Pack Smart, Sail Happy

Cruising is all about fun, relaxation, and creating memories—not dragging around an overstuffed suitcase.

Leave the unnecessary things at home, keep your packing simple, and enjoy a smoother, lighter start to your vacation.

Have you ever packed something for a cruise and never touched it? Drop your funny stories—I’d love to hear them!