Jess at Sea

So, you’re about to set sail on a life-changing adventure—working on a cruise ship! First off: congratulations! Whether you’re joining your first contract or you’re a seasoned seafarer heading back for round two (or ten!), one thing’s for sure—packing for months at sea can feel overwhelming.

As someone who’s completed over ten cruise contracts, I’ve learned exactly what to bring (and what to leave behind). This guide will walk you through everything you need to pack for a cruise ship job, including documents, clothing, toiletries, electronics, and those often-forgotten little extras that make all the difference.

Essential Documents for Cruise Ship Crew

Before you even look at your suitcase, let’s start with the most important part of cruise contract prep: paperwork. You literally can’t get on board without these:

• Passport (valid for at least 6 months beyond your contract end date). Snap a photo of the ID page and print a copy—your cruise line may keep the original while you’re onboard.
• Seaman’s Visa (e.g., C1/D for U.S. entry—check with your cruise line for specifics). Again, copy and print it!
• Medical Certificates (you’ll need a recent medical exam completed before embarkation).
• Contract and Employment Paperwork (print everything your cruise line sends you).
• Safety Certificates (if you’ve worked at sea before, bring them).

💡 Pro tip: Keep all documents in a waterproof pouch in your carry-on for easy access during travel and embarkation.

What Kind of Luggage to Bring on a Cruise Contract?

Crew cabins are notoriously tiny, so space-saving luggage is key.

• Use packing cubes to organize and compress your clothing—this is a game-changer when you’re living out of tight quarters.
• Soft-sided duffel bags work best. They’re easier to store under the bed or in small lockers.
• Hard shell suitcases are okay if you only bring one, but they can be more difficult to store if you are working on a smaller/older ship.

Cruise Ship Crew Clothing Checklist

Your cruise line will provide your uniforms, but you’ll still need a few essentials for off-duty hours and comfort.

Work & Uniform Essentials

• Shoes: Cruise work = long hours on your feet. Bring comfortable, supportive, non-slip shoes (your cruise line will provide guidelines).
• Name Tag: First-timers will be issued one onboard. Returning crew? Bring it back!
• Undergarments & Socks: Enough for 2–3 weeks. Laundry is available, but having extras is a plus (and doing laundry less when you work 70+ hours a week is always a plus)

Casual & Off-Duty Clothes

• 4–5 casual day outfits
• 1–2 sweaters (the A/C is serious onboard)
• Casual shoes (sneakers or sandals)
• Seasonal gear based on itinerary (e.g., swimsuit, raincoat, coat & beanie for colder destinations)
• “Disney Look” appropriate attire (for DCL crew—the recruiter team will send you a guide that will explain it all)

Nice/Occasion Wear

• 1–2 dressier outfits for special dinners, Guest area visits, or holidays like Christmas or NYE.

Gym Gear

• There will be a crew gym onboard – so pack your activewear!

Toiletries & Personal Items for Life at Sea

While you can purchase basics onboard at Crew Shop or order to the ship, having your favorite products from day one is super helpful.

• Shampoo & Conditioner
• Body wash or soap
• Toothbrush & toothpaste
• Deodorant
• Skincare products (SPF + moisturizer are musts!)
• Medication (daily prescriptions and over-the-counter essentials like ibuprofen or seasickness meds)
• Hair tools (must be safety-checked by onboard electricians)
• Razor
• Earplugs (incase of snoring roommates or noisy neighbours – you’ll thank me later!)

Snacks & Comfort Items to Make Your Cabin Feel Like Home

The crew mess will keep you well-fed, but sometimes you need that little snack from home.

• Reusable water bottle (hydration is everything—there are refilling stations onboard)
• Favorite snacks (think granola bars, Tim Tams, candy, instant noodles)
• Tea, coffee, or comfort foods you can’t live without (hello, Vegemite!)

Must-Have Electronics for Cruise Ship Crew Life

You won’t be glued to your devices 24/7, but you’ll want entertainment for your downtime.

• Phone + charger
• USB extension cord (especially useful for top bunks)
• Travel adapter (ships often have US & UK outlets)
• Laptop or tablet (download shows before you board!)
• Kindle (no space for paperbacks!)
• Headphones (for podcasts, video calls, and peace & quiet)

Optional Extras That Make a BIG Difference

These aren’t essential, but they’ve helped me survive (and thrive!) on contract after contract:

• Notebook & Pen: Handy for notes, journaling, or quick reminders
• Small backpack or tote for shore leave
• Mini first-aid kit with your personal go-to items
• USB-powered fan (if you and your roommate disagree on ideal cabin temp)
• Photos & fairy lights to personalize your space
• Magnetic hooks & magnets (many cabin walls are magnetic!)
• Small hobby items like knitting supplies, a journal, or your camera

Check out my post about what it’s like living in a crew cabin here!

Don’t Forget: Your Sense of Adventure

Okay, this one’s not technically packable – but it’s essential. Life at sea is unpredictable, exciting, and unlike anything else. Bring a positive attitude, an open mind, and a readiness to meet people from all over the world.

Cruise Ship Packing Doesn’t Have to Be Stressful

Packing for your first cruise ship contract can feel like prepping for the unknown—but I promise you’ll be just fine. Focus on the essentials, bring a few comfort items from home, and don’t overpack. You’ll be in uniform most of the time anyway!

Need more tips? Want to know what it’s really like to work on a cruise ship? Check out this post about life at sea here.

Bon voyage and best of luck – you’re about to have the adventure of a lifetime! ⚓

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