Frequently asked questions
About the planner, your saved list and the cruise packing questions we hear most.
Is the cruise packing planner free?
Yes. The planner is completely free, with no sign-up, no account and no email address required.
Where is my packing list saved?
Your answers and ticked items are saved in your browser’s local storage on the device you used. Nothing is sent to us. If you clear your browser data, use a private window or switch devices, the list won’t be there – print it if you want a paper copy.
How is the list personalised?
Your answers change what is included. A Norwegian Fjords cruise adds waterproofs and warm layers, a summer Mediterranean cruise adds sun protection and clothes for visiting churches, formal nights add evening wear, flying adds hand-luggage and battery reminders, and travelling with children adds a children’s section and extra embarkation-day essentials.
Is this site connected to a cruise line?
No. Cruise Packing List UK is independent and is not affiliated with, or endorsed by, any cruise line. Where we mention cruise-line rules, we link to the line’s official page so you can check the current version.
When will my luggage arrive in my cruise cabin?
It varies by ship and sailing. Checked luggage may take several hours to reach your cabin after embarkation, and some lines say it can arrive after the ship has sailed. Keep medication, travel documents, swimwear, sun cream and anything children may need immediately in a small carry-on bag. The planner builds a personalised embarkation day bag list for you.
What should I keep out of my suitcase on the last night of a cruise?
Many cruise lines collect checked luggage from outside your cabin on the final evening, so keep out clothes and underwear for the next morning, basic toiletries, medication, travel documents, chargers, valuables and anything children need overnight. Procedures vary, so follow your own cruise line’s disembarkation instructions.
Can I take an extension lead or power strip on a cruise?
It depends on the cruise line. Some, such as Royal Caribbean, prohibit extension cords, power strips and multi-plug outlets; others, such as Carnival and Princess, allow some power strips without surge protection. Surge protectors are commonly banned. Check your own line’s prohibited-items policy before buying a charging accessory – see what not to pack for a cruise.
What items are banned on cruise ships?
It depends on the cruise line, but items commonly banned include clothes irons and steamers, kettles and other heating appliances, surge protectors (and, on some lines, any extension lead or power strip), candles, weapons and self-defence sprays. See our guide to what not to pack for a cruise, and always check your own line’s current list.
How many outfits do I need for a 7-night cruise?
Plan on one daytime outfit per day, re-wearing bottoms where you can, and four or five evening outfits that mix and match. Add formal wear only if your line has formal nights. For cruises of two weeks or more, pack for about 10–12 days and use the ship’s laundry.
Do I need a GHIC for a cruise?
If you’re eligible, a UK GHIC or EHIC is worth taking on EU itineraries because it can help with state healthcare in a hospital ashore. It is not a replacement for travel insurance, and it does not cover treatment in the ship’s medical centre, so you still need travel insurance that covers cruising.
Does the planner tell me which visa or travel authorisation I need?
No. Entry requirements depend on each traveller’s passport and nationality, residence status, the ports visited and any countries flown through, and the planner deliberately doesn’t ask for those details. Instead it adds reminders based on your destination and travel method – for example, to check ESTA or US visa requirements when US ports are likely – and links to official sources. Always check GOV.UK foreign travel advice for every country on your itinerary.
Do I need to pack everything on my list?
No. Your list is a personalised pool of suggestions. Essential items are labelled and listed first in each section; optional extras are grouped at the end, so you can skip what doesn’t suit you.
Can I use the planner offline?
Once the planner page has loaded, your list works without a connection. Printing it is the most reliable way to keep a copy you can use anywhere.
Does the planner give medical advice?
No. The health section contains general packing reminders, such as taking your prescriptions in your hand luggage. For advice about medicines, vaccinations or travel health, speak to your GP or pharmacist.
I found something wrong or out of date. How do I tell you?
Please email business@molthur.com. Cruise-line rules change often, and corrections are always welcome.