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Disney Cruise Packing List: What to Actually Bring

What to pack for a Disney Cruise, including the things people forget: door magnets, a lanyard, motion-sickness bands, and real layers for Alaska sailings.

Looking for Disney cruise packing list? The complete Disney Cruise packing list with essentials, pro tips, and items you didn't know you needed. Includes Caribbean w hot-weather and Alaska cold-weather guides.

Packing for a Disney Cruise is exciting but can be overwhelming. This comprehensive checklist covers everything from must-have essentials to insider items that experienced cruisers swear by. Whether you're sailing to the Caribbean or Alaska, we've got you covered.

Documents & Essentials

  • Passport (valid 6+ months beyond travel dates)
  • Cruise documents and luggage tags
  • Vaccination cards if required
  • Credit/debit card for onboard account
  • Travel insurance documentation
  • Driver's license or ID
  • Prescription medications in original bottles

Embarkation Day Bag (Carry-On)

Your checked luggage may not arrive until 3-4pm. Pack these items in a bag you carry onto the ship:

  • Swimsuits for the whole family
  • Sunscreen SPF 30+
  • Phone, charger, and power bank
  • Medications needed before evening
  • Sunglasses and hats
  • Light change of clothes
  • Refillable water bottles
  • Snacks for picky eaters
  • Wine or beer (2 bottles/6 beers per adult)

Clothing - Caribbean/Bahamas Cruises

  • Lightweight shorts and t-shirts (pack 1-2 per day)
  • Swimsuits (2-3 per person)
  • Cover-ups for dining after pool time
  • Breathable sundresses or casual evening wear
  • Pirate Night costume or red/black clothes
  • Dress-up Night outfit (cocktail dress, khakis + button-down)
  • Light jacket or cardigan (ships are cold!)
  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • Water shoes for Castaway Cay
  • Flip flops for pool areas

Clothing - Alaska Cruises

  • Layering pieces (base layers, fleece, outer shell)
  • Waterproof rain jacket with hood
  • Warm pants and jeans
  • Waterproof hiking boots
  • Gloves and warm hat
  • Binoculars for wildlife viewing
  • Formal wear for dress-up nights
  • Warm pajamas (it gets cold at night!)

Cruise Essentials You Didn't Know You Needed

  • Multi-port USB wall charger (all power strips are prohibited)
  • Magnetic hooks for stateroom walls (saves space!)
  • Lanyard for Key to the World card
  • Over-door shoe organizer for bathroom storage
  • Poo-Pourri or bathroom spray
  • Wrinkle release spray (no irons in rooms)
  • Nightlight for bathroom trips
  • Highlighters for marking Personal Navigator
  • Gallon Ziploc bags for wet swimsuits
  • Small day backpack for port adventures

For Kids

  • Autograph book and thick markers
  • Glow sticks and bracelets for deck parties
  • Princess/pirate costumes if desired
  • Favorite stuffed animal or comfort item
  • Baby monitor (works in staterooms)
  • Pre-printed coloring pages of Disney characters
  • Stroller (ships have limited onboard strollers)
  • Sound machine for nap time

Beach/Pool Bag

  • Reef-safe sunscreen
  • Waterproof phone pouch
  • Beach towel clips
  • Snorkel gear (Castaway Cay rentals available too)
  • GoPro or waterproof camera
  • Dry bag for electronics

Health & Toiletries

  • Sea-Bands or motion sickness meds (free at Medical Center too)
  • Pain relievers and first aid basics
  • Hand sanitizer (also everywhere on ship)
  • Preferred shampoo/conditioner (ship provides basics)
  • Contact lens supplies
  • Sunburn relief aloe gel
  • Lip balm with SPF

What NOT to Pack

  • Surge protectors (fire hazard, will be confiscated)
  • Irons or steamers (prohibited)
  • Hard liquor (wine/beer only)
  • Weapons or sharp objects
  • Drones (not allowed on ship or Castaway Cay)
  • Extension cords, power strips and multi-plugs (all prohibited)
  • Candles or incense

Pro tip: Disney Cruise ships provide shampoo, conditioner, and body wash in all staterooms. Laundry facilities are available if you need to pack light. And remember - you can always buy forgotten items at the onboard shops!