Disney cruises are SO much fun. It’s a great way to see multiple places but still have the magic of Disney as you go. the service is impeccable, ships are clean and beautiful, and the entertainment is top notch. There are some things you should know about packing for a DCL cruise, even if you have cruised on other cruise lines in the past. I will give a general packing list followed by a Disney Cruise specific one. Let’s take a look!
Cruise Packing List:
- Important Documents: Bring your passports, cruise documents, travel insurance, and any necessary IDs. Plus we always bring cash for tips and to use in port!
- Medications: Pack a small first aid kit with motion sickness meds, pain relievers, vitamins, and any prescriptions.
- Toiletries: Although most cruises provides some basics, bring your preferred brands of shampoo, conditioner, lotion, and body wash. Don’t forget straightener, hairspray, gel, detangler, hairbrush, tooth paste, brush, and floss. Nail clippers, tweezers, small scissors, deodorant, makeup.
- Swimwear: Multiple swimsuits for pool and beach days, and don’t forget cover-ups, flip-flops, water shoes, and goggles for kids.
- Sun Protection: Sunscreen, sunglasses, hats, and after-sun gels are essentials. Don’t forget insect repellant if doing excursions in the woods/jungle etc.
- Comfortable Footwear: Pack sandals for pool days and comfortable walking shoes for excursions, plus nicer sandals for dinner.
- Formal Attire: Depending on your cruise itinerary, pack formal wear for themed dinners or special events, and sundresses/slacks as well, and any jewelry or accessories.
- Laundry Supplies: Consider packing travel-sized detergent and a pop-up laundry hamper if you plan to do laundry on board. I also bring wrinkle release spray.
- Day Bag: A lightweight backpack or tote for excursions and poolside essentials, plus a reusable water bottle for everyone in the family.
- Power Strip: Bring a non-surge-protected power strip or USB hub to charge multiple devices. Check with your specific cruise lines prohibited items list to make sure you bring the right kind!
- Lounge around clothing: Casual clothes, socks and shoes, undergarments to wear around the ship or off. I also always bring a light jacket even in summer! Don’t forget those PJ’s!
- Ipad/laptop/headphones/cords: Things you need for all of your electronics! Plus NO ONE wants to hear your kid watch cocomelon on full blast. Ever. headphones are cheap.
- Metal hooks or hanging toiletry bags: There is not a ton of space, so the more you can hang up the better!
- Travel Umbrella or poncho: Just in case!
Disney Specific Packing Additions:
- Costumes and Disney Apparel: Pack Disney-themed outfits for character meet-and-greets, including princess dresses, superhero costumes, or favorite character T-shirts.
- Autograph Book: Bring an autograph book and pens for your kids to collect signatures from characters. Another fun option is a white photo mat and colored sharpies.
- Pirate Night Gear: Many Disney cruises have a Pirate Night, so pack pirate costumes, hats, and accessories for the themed event. You will get a bandana in your room that day.
- Fish Extender Gifts: If you’re participating in a Fish Extender exchange, don’t forget small gifts to share with other cruisers.
- Disney-themed Lanyards: For your room key and onboard spending card, bring a lanyard to keep them handy. If you are a repeat cruiser of DCL you will get one at check in.
- Door Decorations: Bring magnetic decorations to personalize your stateroom door; many Disney cruisers do this to add a festive touch.
- Disney Pins: If your family is into pin trading, pack your pin collection to trade with crew members and other guests.
- Port Arrival Form: You can print this out when you check in for your cruise online.
- Palo attire: If dining at the adults only restaurant, reminder that there is a dress code!
- Disney Magic Band+: Regular magic bands do NOT work on DCl ships but if you have the +band, you can bring it along to open your stateroom door etc. on certain ships.
- Certain Alcohol: Cruisers 21 years and older can bring up to 2 unopened bottles of wine or champagne or 6 beers on board. MUST be in your carry-on bags, NOT in your checked luggage.
- Extra Card: You need a card to keep the lights on in your room, so bring an old room key or membership card to keep in the slot.
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Related: 7 Disney Cruise Line Myths
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