Packing Tips for Your First Carnival Cruise Adventure

If you’re setting sail on your first Carnival cruise (and trust me, you won’t regret it!), you might be feeling a tad overwhelmed. I’m here to guide you through packing tips for your next epic ocean escape on a cruise ship. Buckle up, because we’re about to dive into essential tips and must-have items for your first Carnival cruise.

First things first: Packing for a cruise isn’t as hard as you may think. Just remember versatility, comfort, and a healthy dose of fun. 

Here’s my essentials for a cruise (by category):

Sun Seekers & Pool Partiers:

• Swimsuits galore: Pack at least two, because there’s always time for going to the beach, sitting by the pool, or jumping in the hot tub. Don’t forget cover-ups and those amazing sunglasses as well.
• Beach Essentials: Sunscreen (it can be expensive on the island or boat!), hat, and sandals. Pro tip: Pack a quick-drying towel, thank me later.
• Poolside Reads: A book or that travel guide you haven’t cracked open yet. Bonus points for waterproof editions!

Dining Decor:

• Dressy duds: Pack at least one elegant or classy outfit for formal nights. Think cocktail dresses, smart trousers, and dapper suits. Think “Titanic,” minus the sinking ship, of course.
• Casual Chic: Think sundresses, lightweight pants, and breezy shirts for daytime and warmer weather exploring. Comfort is key, but you still want to look nicer.
• Shoes for All Occasions: Pack comfy sandals for deck side strolling, heels for those fancy dinners, and sneakers for shore excursions. Remember, your feet will thank you.

Adventure Awaits:

• Shore Excursion Essentials: Bring comfortable shoes for exploring, a packable backpack for day trips, and a hat that shields you from the sun. Don’t forget a camera or go pro for those more adventurous times.
• Deck Games & Gear: Pack a deck of cards, a travel chess set, or that beach frisbee you never use. Trust me, deck games keep you busy and entertained during the downtime on the ship.
• The Unforgettables: Pack your travel documents (a passport and/or ID!), medications, chargers, and specific toiletries you love. Oh, and a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated!

Random (Not So Obvious) Essentials:

• Magnetic Marvels: Stick a dry erase board to your cabin door and jot down reminders, messages for your cabin mates, or even draw a treasure map to the best piña coladas onboard. Also, hooks? Stick these bad boys around your cabin for hanging bathing suits, towels, jewelry, and hats!
• Stay Comfy & Cozy: Pack slippers! These are so nice to put on after walking all day at ports and such – plus then you’re not walking on cabin carpets that might not be as clean as they should be. Also, think about a robe!
• Extra Storage: Buy a cheaper plastic door-hanging, multi-pocket shoe organizer. You can use the pockets to hold sunscreen, medication, sunglasses, and all the little items that can clutter the limited shelf space in a cabin. Bonus it folds flat for easy packing.
• Plugs Galore: A (NOT SURGE PROTECTING) power strip. You can buy these anywhere and they usually come with a couple foot cable and multiple outlets or even USB plugs. There is not many outlets and sometimes they can be far apart.

Bonus Tip: Pack less than you think you’ll need. Laundry services are available onboard, and trust me, nobody needs two full suitcases for a seven-day cruise.

Take a look at some of my favorites I brought on my Carnival Celebration cruise HERE! 

Embarking on your first Carnival Cruise is an exciting opportunity to create lifelong memories. By following these packing tips, you’ll ensure that you have everything you need for a smooth and enjoyable voyage. Remember to do your research, stay organized, and pack according to the dress code and activities you plan to engage in. Bon voyage and enjoy every moment of your Carnival Cruise adventure!