What to Pack in Your Cruise Embarkation Day Bag

What to Pack in Your Embarkation Day Bag

You’ve been counting down the days, double-checked your passport, and your cruise is finally here—yay! 🎉 But before you toss your suitcase to the curb and head off to explore your ship, there’s one important tip seasoned cruisers swear by: pack a dedicated embarkation day bag.

Why? Because your main luggage won’t be delivered to your stateroom right away (sometimes not until dinner). So having the right essentials in a carry-on can make your first few hours on board smoother, comfier, and way more fun.

As a travel advisor and cruise lover, here’s what I always recommend packing in your embarkation day bag—plus a few pro tips to help you start your cruise on the right foot.

1. Cruise Documents & Identification

Keep all your boarding essentials handy.

• Passport (or ID and birth certificate, if applicable)

• Cruise line boarding pass

• Health questionnaires or test results (if required)

• Any travel insurance info

Pro tip: Use a document organizer or zipped pouch so you're not fumbling in line.

2. Medications & Medical Essentials

You never want to be separated from your meds.

• Daily medications

• Motion sickness remedies (just in case)

• Inhalers, EpiPens, or medical equipment

Pro tip: Cruise medical centers have limited supplies. Bring what you need, and then some.

3. Swimsuit & Flip Flops

Want to hit the pool or hot tub right away? You'll need your swimsuit.

• Swimsuit (already under your clothes works too!)

• Flip flops or water shoes

• Travel towel or quick-dry wrap (some ships provide them, but just in case...)

Pro tip: The pools are blissfully quiet before the crowds get their luggage!

4. Travel-Size Toiletries

Freshen up after a long day of travel.

• Toothbrush & toothpaste

• Face wipes

• Deodorant

• Hairbrush or comb

• Lip balm & hand sanitizer

Pro tip: Airports and embarkation terminals are dry and chaotic—moisturizer and wipes are lifesavers.

5. Change of Clothes or Layers

Weather can be unpredictable, and indoor areas might be chilly.

• Lightweight jacket or sweater

• Change of clothes for dinner or just in case

Pro tip: If your luggage is delayed, you’ll thank yourself for a backup outfit.

6. Snacks or Reusable Water Bottle

While most ships offer food right away, delays happen.

• Granola bar, crackers, or snacks (especially for kids)

• Refillable water bottle (empty through security, then fill onboard)

Pro tip: Hydrate early! Traveling, excitement, and salty sea air = dehydration.

7. Electronics & Chargers

Don’t bury your tech in your checked bag.

• Phone + charger

• Portable power bank

• Earbuds or headphones

• E-reader or tablet

Pro tip: Download cruise line apps, shore excursion info, and entertainment schedules ahead of time.

8. Must-Have Comforts

These small items can make a big difference.

• Sunglasses & sunscreen

• Book or magazine

• Small pouch with cash or credit card

• Cruise lanyard (for your keycard!)

Pro tip: Having your essentials organized = less stress and more time to explore the ship.

Bonus: For Families or Special Needs Travelers

• Snacks, activities, and fidgets for kids

• Noise-canceling headphones or sensory tools

• Comfort items like a travel blanket, lovey, or stuffed animal

• Medical documentation or ID card for accessibility support

Start Your Cruise the Right Way

Embarkation day can feel like organized chaos, but a little prep goes a long way. With a well-packed day bag, you’ll glide through the first few hours feeling relaxed, ready, and fully in cruise mode.

Need help choosing the right cruise, accessibility options, or what to expect for your first embarkation? I’m here to help make the whole journey smooth sailing.

Let’s get you packed, prepped, and ready to sail!