The Ultimate Cruise Ship Packing List for Crew (2026 Edition)

Introduction

You are about to move into a cabin the size of a walk-in closet, potentially sharing it with a stranger for six months. Overpacking is the rookie’s biggest mistake. Based on feedback from hundreds of seasoned crew members, these are the top items that will make your life onboard significantly better.

1. The "Golden Pouch" (Documents)

Before you pack a single T-shirt, you must organize your paperwork. Without these physical documents, you will not be allowed to board the ship. Do not pack these in your checked luggage; keep them in a carry-on folder or "Golden Pouch" that stays with you at all times.

• Passport: Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your contract end date.
• C1/D Visa: The original foil in your passport (or the physical card).
• Letter of Employment (LOE): You may need to show this to immigration officers.
• Medical Certificate (PEME): The original "Fit for Duty" form signed by the doctor.
• Police Clearance Certificate: The original copy.

Pro Tip: Take clear photos of every single document and email them to yourself or save them to Google Drive before you leave the airport. If you lose your physical folder, having high-quality digital copies can save your job. (Read more about the costs of these documents in our Cruise Ship Salaries & Costs Guide).

2. Clothing (The 7-Day Rule)

You do not need 10 pairs of jeans. Since you are in uniform most of the time, you only need enough "civilian" clothes for your time off in port.

• Uniform Basics: Bring at least 10 pairs of black socks. The ones issued by the ship are often cheap and uncomfortable.
• Shoes: Most roles require black, polishable, non-slip shoes. Buy a high-quality pair before you leave. You will be standing for 10+ hours a day, and cheap shoes will ruin your back.
• Port Clothes: Pack for 7 days of rotation: 3-4 T-shirts, 2 pairs of shorts/jeans, and maybe one nice outfit for dinner ashore.
• The "Cold" Gear: Bring 1 hoodie or light jacket. Even if you are sailing in the Caribbean, the air conditioning inside the ship is often freezing.

3. Electronics (The "Surge Protector" Trap)

This is the #1 reason crew luggage gets held at security. If you pack the wrong power strip, it will be confiscated, and you won’t get it back until the end of your contract.

The Golden Rule: Never bring a standard power strip from home. You must specifically look for a strip that says "Non-Surge" on the packaging or a simple multi-plug wall tap.

4. What NOT To Bring (The Banned List)

Security scanners will spot these items immediately. Leave them at home:

• Irons or Steamers: Strict fire hazard. There are crew laundry rooms with irons you can use.
• Candles or Incense: Anything with an open flame is forbidden.
• Knives or Weapons: Even a small pocket knife can cause issues.
• Alcohol: You generally cannot bring your own alcohol on board.

Conclusion

Packing for your first contract is about efficiency. Every kilogram counts. Focus on comfortable shoes, the right documents, and "non-surge" electronics. Remember, you can buy almost anything else you need in port.

Safe travels, and we will see you on board!