Must-have items to pack in your carry-on bag for a cruise

After more than 20 cruises, I’ve learned to pack my carry-on for an overnight stay, even when my suitcase should be arriving at my stateroom door just a few hours after I do. On one vacation, my luggage was delivered to the wrong stateroom and brought inside by fellow passengers and I didn’t get it back until the next morning.

Now, these are the items I keep with me in a small weekender bag on embarkation day. It may be cumbersome to tote around while I wait for my stateroom to be ready, but I’d rather have what I need than spend the first night wishing I’d packed differently.

Toiletries and medications

Cruise lines remind passengers to keep important travel documents and prescription medications with them for a reason. My misplaced suitcase drove that advice home and made me realize how important certain essentials are for a comfortable first night. I also bring a small toiletry bag with a toothbrush, toothpaste, and face wash so I can get ready for bed without waiting for luggage delivery or making an expensive trip to the gift shop.

Swimsuit

I’ve found the pool deck is often quieter during those first few hours, while other passengers head for the buffet, explore the ship, and make any last-minute dining reservations. Packing a swimsuit in my carry-on means I can start enjoying the ship before my suitcase arrives. The pool bar makes a good first stop, too.

Set of clothes

I usually pack a lightweight dress that takes up little space and works for dinner in the dining room. Having a fresh outfit makes the evening more comfortable after a day of traveling. I also pack shoes I can wear through dinner, just in case.

Phone charger

Travel and boarding drain my phone battery, and I’ll want to take photos on the first day. Keeping a charger handy saves me from rationing my battery while waiting for my bags, something no one wants to worry about when they’re trying to make memories, see the activity schedule or even just find their way around the ship.

Wine

If you drink alcohol, it’s a smart idea to check whether your cruise line allows wine in carry-on bags, along with any bottle limits and corkage fees, before choosing a special bottle to enjoy on your sailing.