Packing for a trip can seem like a daunting task for many, and I can admit that I struggle often with this myself.
So, now that I have been on a Disney Cruise in the Bahamas, I wanted to share my packing list as well as what you should leave at home to save space in your luggage in order to travel lighter or for *ehem* Disney souvenirs!
Hopefully, you find this packing list helpful and it makes the task of packing seem a little less awful! Keep in mind that I traveled with adults that didn’t have any kids, so my packing list does not include items for kids, only the kids at heart! :)
Since my voyage started in Miami, had a day out at Sea, and had Port of Calls in The Bahamas, I packed for a tropical destination.
Use my packing list as a base for what to pack for a cruise, and then tweak it a bit depending on the season and weather of your specific cruise.
Itinerary Locations:
Day 1: Miami,FL
Day 2: Nassau, Bahamas
Day 3: Castaway Cay (Island in Bahamas)
Day 4: Day at Sea
Travel Dates: January 25th – January 31st
Season: Winter (not your typical winter; it’s a still a Bahamian winter)
Weather: Mid 60s F to high 70s F
Essentials
Disclaimer: I am not part of an affiliate program, these are just items that I really like!
Important Documents
A valid Passport or other documentation required for your specific cruise itinerary such as a visa or government-issued photo ID. This is the most important thing you have to pack for your cruise!
Sun protection
Sunglasses- A good pair of sunglasses will help reduce UV rays, so I always make sure to pack my Ray-Bans.
Hats/Visors– To help protect you from UV rays and they are also very stylish! A floppy wide-brimmed hat will not only protect the face but will also look very cute!
Sunscreen– Sunscreen is super important for any tropical vacation, so be sure to pack this if you plan to be by the pool and outdoors! If you run out, there is sunscreen available for purchase on the ship, but it will be expensive.
TOILETRIES
Disney cruises provide you with shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and body lotion in the staterooms so you don’t need to pack these items for the cruise, but you can bring your own if you want to.
You will need to bring your own toothpaste, toothbrush, shaving cream, razors, makeup remover, face wash, moisturizer, deodorant, makeup, and any special hair products you use.
MEDICINE
Bring your prescription medicine, vitamins, and any other medication you may need during your cruise, including motion sickness medication to ease sea sickness.
Water Bottle
Staying hydrated is always important, so pack a refillable water bottle or tumbler to fill up at the water-filling stations on the ship. This way, you won’t have to make as many trips to the pool deck to get cups of water.
Outfits
I brought lightweight clothes for the tropical weather and layers for the cool evenings.
Tops
T-shirts/Tank Tops/Blouses – Comfy and breathable tops for the heat and if you plan on working out.
Layers – Bring a sweater for the evenings because it can get chilly in the dinning rooms and in the theaters.
Bottoms
Shorts – Denim shorts are easy to pair with the t-shirts you are bringing and will also keep you cool. Linen shorts are also a good option for tropical weather.
Leggings – Bring leggings if you plan to stay active by taking advantage of the fitness center aboard the ship or have outdoor excursions planned during your voyage.
Jeans/Pants – I opted to embark wearing a pair of jeans because I prefer to travel in jeans. You can also choose to bring a dressier pant or trouser to wear with a cute blouse for a fancy evening.
Dresses
Maxi/Midi/Sundresses – Dresses are easy to pack and are an easy outfit. Choose lightweight and flowy dresses to help you stay cool.
Shoes
Flip Flips – Necessary item for hanging around the pool deck and for the beach days.
Sandals – Comfortable and cute sandals to match your dinner outfits. I personally, would leave the high heels at home.
Sneakers – If you’re planning on getting a workout in or planning outdoor excursions like running a 5K on Disney’s private island, a pair of sneakers is a must!
Swimwear
Swimsuits – I’m sure you already know that this is an essential to pack for any cruise if you plan to swim in the pool or the beach. Pack multiple swimsuits, so you can hang the damp ones up to dry in the stateroom.
Swimsuit Coverups – Although most restaurants are casual, you cannot dine with swimwear, so bring swimsuit coverups.
Bags
Beach Bag – A necessity to keep all your belongings while relaxing by the pool and when you get off the ship to explore.
Clear Travel Bags – I like to use clear bags to keep things organized and to find them easily. I put my mickey ears in the large size bag. :)
Toiletry Bag – Make sure your clear toiletry bag is TSA approved and that all your toiletries follow the TSA requirements.
Items You Can Leave at Home
- Disney provides you with towels for the pool and beach days, so leave them at home.
- You also don’t need to bring shampoo, conditioner, body wash or body lotion, unless you want to bring your own products.
- Clothing irons aren’t allowed on cruise ships.
Extras for Disney Cruises
These items are not necessary for your Disney Cruise, but are fun to have!
- Pirate costume and accessories for the Pirate Night event
- Mickey/Minnie Ears
- Disney-themed Jewelry
- Lanyard for your Key to the World card. Your Key to the World card serves as your room key, ID, and as payment method, so you’ll use it everywhere. It’ll make life easier if you keep it in a lanyard!
- Magnet door decorations (no glue or tape is allowed)
- Disney gift cards – you can load them to your account before boarding or at guest services on the ship
- There is a gift exchange onboard, so bring some gift items if you want to participate, but it’s completely optional
- Cash in small bills for tips
- Laundry bag or hamper to keep the dirty clothes separate. There is also a laundry room open 24/7 on the ship, so bring a bag or hamper if you plan on washing some items.
Leave a Reply