best carry on bag for a cruise

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Eco-Travel in Retirement – Nature and Sustainable Luxury Travel

25 Essential Things to Pack in Your Cruise Carry-On Bag (2024)

It’s embarkation day! You’re off on that most relaxing of vacations, a cruise! But when you arrive at the cruise terminal your luggage (with well-marked luggage tags) is whisked away from you with the promise that it’ll be in your cruise cabin later that day. If you know what to pack in your carry on for a cruise, this is great. But if you haven’t packed right, you may find yourself waiting a long time onboard a beautiful cruise ship with nothing to do for the rest of the day.

Table of Contents

Prepare your carry-on for embarkation day

Your cruise vacation can start immediately if you’ve packed well. Once you’ve checked your large luggage with the porters, you can board the ship unencumbered. No need to drag a heavy bag up the gang plank and through the narrow ship corridors. You can head right to lunch or, if your room key is ready, change into your pool wear and relax in the hot tub.

Your checked luggage will have a more arduous day. The porters load all passenger’s luggage onto the ship, where the ship’s crew sort the luggage, and then deliver it to each cabin. On a large ship, this may take a very long time.

The solution? A well-packed cruise carry-on bag. Choose a lightweight backpack, tote bag, or beach bag that you can easily carry to board the ship and carry for a few hours if you have to wait until your cabin is ready. Bonus points if this bag will be right for your shore excursions too.

Before leaving home, make a packing list for your cruise vacation. Indicate on the list what you will put in your cruise carry-on. I use a packing list app which makes this easy.

If you are flying to the cruise port, you may have already packed items for your airline personal item. Some of these (e.g. pillow, eye mask) will not be needed on the ship. Note on your packing list the items to move from one bag to the other before getting to the cruise terminal.

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Choosing the best bags for your cruise vacation.

One of the advantages of cruise vacations is enjoying a trip without having to pack and unpack. Therefore, travelers have a wider choice on what luggage they carry on the trip. Wheeled luggage that might be ungainly on cobblestone streets will arrive at your cruise cabin without you lifting a finger. So feel free to choose any bag for your larger suitcase.

However, the carry-on we suggest you bring onto the ship should be lightweight and easily managed. A small roller bag is fine if that’s what you have, but we go lighter with what passes for a personal item on a flight . A backpack, small duffel bag, or tote is ideal and will come in use again on any beach or excursions you take.

What to pack in your carry-on for a cruise

Wallet with photo ID, credit cards, etc.

Essential travel documents – passport, cruise documents, itinerary, vaccinations cards, and proof of travel insurance. (If you think you’ll be heading to the pool area with this bag, consider having these documents in a waterproof envelope )

Cell phone and charger.

All electronic devices you are traveling with: laptop, tablet, headphones, etc. (You won’t be using all of these on embarkation day, but it’s best to keep them secure.)

Prescription medications , OTC medications, and motion sickness meds.

Hand sanitizer , wipes, and face mask (just in case…)

Reading glasses

Sunglasses and sun hat

Bathing suit and cover-up

Sunscreen (see these good options for reef safe sunscreen )

Camera and lenses (if you’re a photographer). You’ll want to get some pictures of the sail away!

Change of clothes for the first night’s dinner. The first night’s supper is usually quite casual, but you’ll probably want to change out of your traveling clothes. (After my brother’s luggage was lost for days on a European cruise, I’ve added a simple merino dress which can double as sleepwear.)

Sandals (flip flops are fine, but I choose sandals that works for pool side as well as dinner )

Children’s essentials – comfort objects, swim floaties, small toys and entertainments , etc. If your child is old enough, encourage them to carry their own bag. Let them choose what items they might want while waiting for their main bags to arrive.

Refillable water bottle – Most cruise ships offer water bottle stations where you can easily refill your own bottle. Saves money and waste. Every little thing we can do to be a responsible traveler helps!

Any items of value . If you plan on heading right to the pool, you might want to have a portable safe that’ll secure to your pool chair. Note : don’t bring anything on a trip you’d be heartbroken to lose! Cruises are the perfect time to pack sparkly costume jewelry!

Basic toiletries – lip balm, lipstick, hair brush and elastics, hand sanitizer, lotion, etc.

Optional things to pack in your carry on

• Some cruise lines allow you to bring a bottle of wine on board the ship on the first day. Before purchasing, check if there’s an extra corkage fee. This additional cost may cancel out the savings you expect from buying bottles of wine at the cruise port. Check with your cruise line to see if you can bring an unopened package of your favorite soda or sparkling water on board.
• Formal night clothing in garment bags. Some passengers like to carry-on the clothing they’ve brought for formal nights.
• Workout wear . If you’re arriving after a long flight, it might feel great to get some exercise.
• Waterproof camera or waterproof phone case (these are cruise essentials if you’re planning on water activities)
• Towel clips (though you can likely do without them the first day and can pack these in your main luggage)
• Cruise lanyard if you want to stash your cruise ID right away.
• Lightweight packable bag . If you’re able to get into your cruise cabin right away to stow your bags you can use this as a pool bag.
• Portable charger . (Always useful to have on any trip!)

Readers’ FAQ

Can’t I choose to board the ship with my roller bag?  Yes, in most cases you can tell the porters that you’ll carry-on your larger suitcase. But be aware that your cruise cabin may not be available for several hours and you’ll need to bring your luggage to lunch, to the common areas, and to the pool deck. I tried this and, after wrestling with my spinner through the buffet line, I resolved never to do it again. It’s much easier to have a smaller tote bag with your essentials.

Happy cruising!

Amy Tull and Team

• Amy Tull and Team https://travelingtulls.com/author/gramma2chance/ Nature and Birding in Costa Rica: a World of Strange & Wonderful Beauty
• Amy Tull and Team https://travelingtulls.com/author/gramma2chance/ How to Survive a Long Flight: be comfortable even in Economy Seats (2024)
• Amy Tull and Team https://travelingtulls.com/author/gramma2chance/ Best Time to Travel to Machu Picchu, Peru: a traveler’s guide (2024)
• Amy Tull and Team https://travelingtulls.com/author/gramma2chance/ Undercover Birding: how to enjoy birdwatching while traveling with friends

Amy, a writer on responsible bucket list travel, is your reliable source for insightful travel advice. With a career background in libraries, and a degree in biology and mathematics, Amy's approach to travel is rooted in meticulous research and planning, and her commitment to eco-conscious adventures.

Amy’s dedication to sustainable travel practices, including efficient packing techniques, ensures that every adventure leaves a positive impact on both the environment and the traveler's well-being. Trust Amy to guide you towards meaningful and eco-friendly travel, making the most of your retirement years.

A lifelong New England resident, Amy is also the source for insider tips on travel in the Northeastern U.S.

• Amy Tull https://travelingtulls.com/author/amy-travelingtulls/ 25 Tips to Conquer Travel Anxiety: How to Make Travel Easier (and almost stress-free!)
• Amy Tull https://travelingtulls.com/author/amy-travelingtulls/ Easy Elegance: 3 Capsule Wardrobe Templates for Travel Planning
• Amy Tull https://travelingtulls.com/author/amy-travelingtulls/ Navigating the Amazon and Caribbean with Viking: An Honest Review (2024)
• Amy Tull https://travelingtulls.com/author/amy-travelingtulls/ Elegance at Sea: An Authentic Viking Ocean Cruises Review

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Perfect timing. We leave on a Mediterranean cruise today!

Oh that’s wonderful! Have a fabulous time.

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Best Carry-On Bags For Cruise Vacations

This article may contain affiliate links .

Ever wondered what the best carry-on bag for cruise adventures is? You’re not alone. Picking just the right one isn’t all about looking chic on deck; it’s the game-changer for a smooth sailing trip.

Once you’ve settled on the ideal carry-on for your cruise vacation, be sure to check out our guide on the best bag for a cruise excursion to ensure you’re well-prepared for every off-ship adventure.

Best Carry-on Bags For A Cruise Reviewed

Rockland rolling duffel bag.

Ever felt that packing pang where you wish your bag was just a tad more cruise-friendly? Well, here’s a gem I stumbled upon: The Rockland Rolling Duffel Bag . And spoiler alert: it’s kinda perfect for those cruise trips. Let me break down the deets:

1. Material and Build : It’s 100% polyester, which pretty much means it’s gonna resist those surprise splashes on the deck. Plus, the 600 denier heavy-duty polyester? That’s a fancy way of saying it’s built like a tank but looks sleek and stylish.

2. The Fun Factor : Alright, it’s black, but this isn’t any ordinary black duffel. It’s got fun prints which basically scream “I’m here to have a good time!” (Okay, maybe not scream. More like a classy whisper.)

3. Let’s Roll : Extra-large wheels = less lugging and more strolling. Trust me, you’ll be gliding through those cruise corridors.

4. Access Made Easy : That U-top opening? It’s like the Red Sea parting every time you need something from inside. And speaking of the inside, zipping and unzipping feels like a dream with that heavy-duty zipper.

5. Pocket Mania : Four pockets upfront for all your quick grabs, and two zipper-secured ones to keep your stuff from doing the cha-cha inside.

6. Flexibility : Whether you’re a hand-carrier with those velcro straps, a shoulder-slinger with the detachable strap, or you let it roll beside you, this bag’s got you.

7. Stats & Ranks : Just to sprinkle in some numbers, this duffel measures a neat 22″ L x 12″ W x 11″ H. Oh, and did I mention it’s ranked #9 in Travel Duffel Bags and is a solid 4.2 out of 5 stars from a whopping 16,980 ratings? Yep, it’s kind of a big deal.

8. Reliable Roots : Made by Fox Luggage and freshly available since August 11, 2023. These folks know their luggage game.

Wrap Up : So, if you’re gearing up for some sea breeze and deck dances, consider making this Rockland Rolling Duffel Bag your plus one. Cruising just got a whole lot cooler!

Travelers Club Chicago Hardside Expandable Spinner Luggage

If you’ve been sailing the high seas of the internet searching for the ideal cruise carry-on, your ship has just come in. Let’s talk about the Travelers Club Chicago Hardside Expandable Spinner Luggage . And let me tell ya, this ain’t just any luggage; it’s THE luggage. Here’s the lowdown:

1. That Interior, Though : Fully lined with an accessory pocket, because even your sunnies need a posh spot to chill when you’re not wearing them.

2. Space Magic : Going on a shopping spree on your cruise? No worries. This bad boy expands . So, bring on the souvenirs!

3. Push It Real Good : A push-button recessed locking handle system? Yass! Feel like the captain of your luggage every time you stroll through the ship.

4. Wheel Talk : The double spinner wheels are kinda like that friend who’s up for anything. Full 360º spins mean this luggage dances beside you, not behind.

5. Paint Me Like One of Your French Luggages : That teal? Oh la la! But if teal isn’t your jam, there are other modern colors to tickle your fancy.

6. Just the Facts, Ma’am : Dimensions are 13 x 11 x 20 inches with a feather-light weight of 5.6 pounds. Oh, and that capacity? 47 liters of pure packing pleasure.

7. Street Cred : Rocking a cool 4.3 out of 5 stars from a whopping 22,988 ratings. And it’s chilling at #2 in Carry-On Luggage. Not too shabby!

8. Made by Pros : Travelers Club Luggage knows their stuff. With them, you know you’re in good hands… or wheels?

Wrap-Up : So, my cruise-loving amigos, next time you’re ready to hit the high seas, let this teal dream of a carry-on be your sidekick. With the Travelers Club Chicago Hardside Expandable Spinner Luggage , you’re not just traveling; you’re cruising in style .

SwissGear Sion Softside Carry-On

Before you set sail on your next voyage, you might want to hear about this nifty little carry-on that I’ve dubbed “The Cruise MVP.” Meet the SwissGear Sion Softside Expandable Roller Luggage . Here’s the 411:

1. Glide Through : Airport lines, crowded boarding zones, narrow ship corridors…nothing stands in the way of this beauty with its 360-degree multi-directional spinner wheels. Seriously, this bag’s got moves!

2. Space for Days : Fully expandable and measuring a perfect 22.75 x 14.25 x 10.25 inches (including those all-important wheels and handles), you’ve got ample room to stow away all those outfits…and maybe a sneaky duty-free purchase or two. 😉

3. Tough Cookie : Made with scuff-resistant polyester, this carry-on laughs in the face of rough handlers and turbulent trips. Oh, and the inside? It’s like a well-fitted tuxedo – fully lined and ready for the party.

4. Tidy Travels : Adjustable tie-down straps keep your stuff snug, and for the accident-prone among us (guilty! 🙋), there’s even a removable zippered wet bag. No more shampoo explosions ruining your vacay vibes!

5. Pockets Galore : From the front panel pockets with a neat built-in ID tag (no more “is this my bag?” moments) to the inside compartments, your organizational game just leveled up.

6. Lifting Game Strong : With padded top, side, and bottom handles, even when you’ve packed that little extra, lifting and carrying is a cinch.

7. A+ Ratings : With a whopping 4.5 out of 5 stars from 14,583 travelers (that’s a whole lotta love ❤️) and sitting pretty at #1 in Suitcases, you know this isn’t just another bag; it’s a crowd pleaser.

8. Swiss Precision : SwissGear ain’t new to this game. They’re all about making sure you travel smoothly, safely, and in style. And let’s be real, who knows precision better than the Swiss?

In Conclusion : Whether you’re about the fam trips, business sails, or solo sea escapades, the SwissGear Sion Softside Carry-On is the real MVP. So, next time you’re prepping to embark on a sea adventure, remember: style, space, and Swiss precision make for one heck of a cruise companion. Bon voyage, folks!

U.S. Traveler Rio Carry-On Luggage Set

If you’ve been scrolling through the abyss of luggage options for your next trip and feeling overwhelmed, let me introduce you to the U.S. Traveler Rio set . Here’s why it’s legit perfect for cruising:

1. Elegance on a Budget: This set gives luxury vibes without making your wallet cry. High-quality polyester construction? Classy look? Both checked!

2. Airport Runway or Fashion Runway? With its sleek deluxe retractable push-button handle, you’ll feel like you’re strutting a catwalk rather than rushing to your gate.

3. Two’s Company: The piggy-bag-strap feature is genius! Your tote bag and rolling bag become besties, meaning less hassle for you.

4. Keep It Together: The elegant fully lined interior’s got you. From tie-down straps to that big meshed zipper pocket, you’ve got all the space you need to play Tetris with your belongings.

5. Flexibility Is Key: Cruises are all about that little extra – whether it’s food, activities, or, in this case, space! Thanks to the expandable feature, there’s room for those “just in case” items.

6. Tote-ally Stylish: That tote isn’t just pretty to look at. With its adjustable and detachable non-slip padded shoulder strap, it’s comfy and versatile too.

7. Perfect Fit: Just think of the tote as your everyday sidekick (14″W x 10″H x 6″D) and the rolling bag as your trusty getaway buddy (21″H x 13.5″W x 8.5″D). These sizes are just right for cruise cabins.

8. Rave Reviews: With 25,433 peeps giving it a cool 4.3 stars, you know it’s not just me hyping this up. It’s a crowd-pleaser.

Bottom Line: This set isn’t just luggage; it’s an experience – a stylish, functional, cruise-perfect experience. The U.S. Traveler Rio set is like that one friend who always has your back – reliable and chic. So, are you ready to set sail with the ultimate cruise companion?

Rockland Duffel Bag

You know that feeling when you’ve got a bit too much to pack, but you don’t want to look like you’re moving aboard the ship for good? Enter: Rockland Duffel Bag . Let me break down why it’s the bomb.com for your sea escapades:

1. The Look: First off, hello fashionista! This isn’t just a bag, it’s a statement. That polyester sheen is bound to have fellow cruisers asking, “Hey, where’d you get that?” 💁‍♀️

2. All About Access: Ever fumbled around trying to grab your sunscreen while the sun’s blazing? That U-top zippered opening is a game changer! Dive in and grab what you need, no hassle.

3. Pockets, Pockets, Pockets: Not one, not two, but FOUR zip-secured compartments. It’s like this bag knew we’d need a place for sunnies, a place for our passport, and, let’s be real, a stash spot for snacks.

4. Straps ‘n More: You’ve got options here. Sling it over your shoulder with that ergonomic strap, or hold it by its sturdy top handles. Plus, that velcro strap for the handles? Pure genius.

5. Size Matters: At 19”x11”x9”, it’s the Goldilocks of bags – not too big, not too small. It’s just right for those 3-5 day cruises where you need variety but not your entire wardrobe.

6. Built Tough: With heavy duty 600 denier polyester, this duffel isn’t just about looks. It’s ready to face the rough and tumble of ship life and still come out shining.

7. The Crowd Has Spoken: A whopping 13,906 peeps have chimed in, and the consensus? A stellar 4.7 stars. That’s a lot of love!

In Short: If you’re hitting the high seas soon and need a trusty bag to vibe with your cruising style, the Rockland Duffel is calling your name. It’s less “I’m here for the cruise” and more “I’m here to CRUISE in style!” Get ready to set sail with flair, mates!

Travelpro Platinum Elite Carry-On

So you’re planning your next cruise and wondering which suitcase will make you the envy of all onboard. Let’s chat about the Travelpro Platinum Elite Softside 22-inch . Spoiler alert: It’s pretty rad.

1. No More Tippy-Toes: So, you’ve packed, but your bag’s acting like it had one too many margaritas and wants to tip over? With this tapered design, your suitcase stays as steady as a captain in a storm. 🌪️

2. Gadget Guru: External USB port? Check! Dedicated pocket for your power bank? Double check! ( Remember though, bring your own power bank, this one’s BYOPB! )

3. Smooth Moves: Those sealed ball bearing wheels aren’t just for show, they ensure your suitcase glides smoother than your moves at the cruise dance night.

4. Tall or Small, It Fits All: Whether you’re basketball-player tall or just average-Joe height, that patented PowerScope handle’s got your back… and your height.

5. Tougher Than It Looks: With high-density nylon and DuraGuard coating, this baby is like the James Bond of suitcases: suave on the outside, but ready for any mission.

6. Luxe Vibes: Who can resist leather accents? They’re like the cherry on top of your ice cream sundae. And those chrome zippers? Chef’s kiss!

7. Inside Matters: Tie-down system? Pockets for essentials? TSA-friendly removable wet pocket? This bag’s inside game is stronger than a weightlifter on protein shakes.

8. Promise of Forever: Register this beauty, and you’ve got a mate for life. Damaged by the airline? No worries, they’ve got you covered.

To Wrap It Up: If your carry-on was a cruise ship, this would be the luxurious yacht of the lot. It’s not just about packing; it’s about packing in style, efficiency, and durability. So, next time you’re aboard, sipping that piña colada, and someone asks about your bag, you’ll know you made the right choice with the Travelpro Platinum Elite . Bon voyage and keep cruising in style!

DALIX 21″ Blank Sports Duffle Bag

Ever been in that last-minute packing frenzy and wished for a bag that’s both stylish and spacious? Enter the DALIX 21″ Blank Sports Duffle Bag . And here’s why it’s the ultimate cruise buddy:

1. Room for Days: Whether it’s those extra flip-flops, sunscreen, or even your snorkeling gear, the main compartment is your BFF. Towels, shoes? Come on in!

2. Accessible AF: Two side flap pockets mean grabbing those sunglasses or earphones on-the-go without diving elbow-deep into your bag. And isn’t fast and easy what we all want on a vacay?

3. Pocket Mania: Keys? Check. Phone? Check. Mouthguard? (Hey, I don’t judge!). It all goes into that zippered front pocket. Also, those side zippers are just begging to secure your valuables and water bottles.

4. Color Me Impressed: Orange? Black? Maroon? With this rainbow of colors, there’s one to match your cruise OOTD or even your mood.

5. Carry It Your Way: That padded handle is the real MVP for when you’re running late to the dinner deck. But if you’re feeling more chill, sling it over with the adjustable (and detachable!) shoulder strap.

6. Built Tough: Made from sturdy polyester, this bag can take a splash at the pool deck or the rush to the next shore excursion. Plus, with metal zippers engraved with DALIX branding, you’re cruising in style!

7. Light as a Feather: At just 1.25 pounds, it won’t be the bag weighing you down when you’re trying to catch that sunset on the deck.

Last Word: This isn’t just a gym bag, peeps! It’s the unsung hero of cruise trips. Imagine dancing under the stars, with this duffle by your side, holding your change of shoes or that light jacket. Simple, stylish, and oh-so-practical – the DALIX duffle bag is the unsung hero of carry-ons. Grab yours and let the cruise adventures begin!

Why Having a Carry-On is Crucial for Cruising

If you’ve ever been on a cruise, you know it’s not just about those sunsets over the horizon or the all-you-can-eat buffet (though, let’s be real, those are pretty epic). It’s also about making the journey as breezy as possible. Here’s the lowdown:

Streamlined Boarding and Disembarkation

Picture this – you’re strolling onto the ship, no fuss, no stress, and certainly no juggling of too many bags. The right carry-on means easy-peasy boarding and getting off, without the dreaded luggage drama.

Keeping Essentials Close and Secure

Whether it’s your passport, that snazzy camera, or your favorite book, a great carry-on ensures everything you NEED is right at your fingertips. Plus, knowing they’re safe and sound? Priceless.

Limitations and Restrictions on Cruise Ship Luggage

Cruise ships ain’t the place for the “pack everything but the kitchen sink” approach. They’ve got rules, and a smartly-packed carry-on helps you play by the book, making sure you don’t overstep those luggage boundaries.

So, before you set sail on your next maritime adventure, remember: the right carry-on isn’t just a bag; it’s your trusty sidekick for the high seas!

Factors to Consider When Buying a Carry-On Bag

If you’re set on finding that magical carry-on to make your cruise experience smooth sailing, there’s a checklist we’ve got to run through. Let’s dive deep:

Size and Dimension

First things first, size does matter here. You don’t want a bag that’s giving you the evil eye from the airline overhead bin or getting the side-eye from cruise staff. Make sure your bag fits snugly within cruise and flight guidelines.

Think of your carry-on as a superhero. It needs to stand strong against the unpredictable tides of travel. Go for something robust that laughs in the face of rough handling and salt spray.

Compartments and Organization

It’s not just about shoving stuff inside. Imagine pockets for your sunglasses, a slot for your passport, and a nook for that instant-read beach novel. Ah, organization bliss!

Security Features

The world’s an adventure, but let’s be real – it’s also a bit sneaky. Get a bag with solid locks, crafty anti-theft designs, and those secret pockets where you can stash your super-secret stuff.

Comfort and Mobility

Whether you’re racing through terminals or casually strolling the deck, your bag should be by your side, not dragging you down. Look for wheels that glide, straps that adjust, and designs that feel like they’re giving your back a gentle hug.

Aesthetic and Style

You’re not just any traveler; you’re a *stylish* traveler! Your bag should scream (or, you know, subtly whisper) fashion and function in equal measure.

Goldilocks had it right – you want something not too pricey, but not too cheap. Aim for the sweet spot where cost meets quality.

In the quest for the ultimate carry-on, remember these golden rules, and you’ll be cruising in style!

Wrapping It Up

Choosing the best bag to take as carry on for cruise vacations isn’t just some passing whim; it’s the difference between smooth sailing and choppy waters. Remember, this isn’t just about packing—it’s about picking your travel buddy, the one that holds your essentials, keeps them safe, and is always by your side.

If there’s one piece of advice to take from this voyage through the land of carry-ons, it’s this: invest in a bag that’s both tough-as-nails and sleek-as-a-seal. A little splurge now on a top-notch carry-on can mean countless hassle-free adventures ahead.

So, as you prepare to feel the sea breeze and hear the call of distant shores, make sure your choice on the best carry on bag for cruise is up for the journey.

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Cruise Packing Tips

• >> What to Pack in Cruise Carry On Bag

What to Pack in Cruise Carry On Bag

Wondering what to pack in your cruise carry on? We’ve put together a guide on what to carry on a cruise in your bag on embarkation day. We’ve outlined the essential things to carry on a cruise when you arrive at port and embark on your journey. We’ve also got some tips on choosing the right cruise carry on bag for your needs.

When you’re cruising, your luggage gets checked in at the port and you board the ship with your carry on only. Your luggage will be delivered to your stateroom once boarding is complete so you won’t see your suitcase until much later in the afternoon. For this reason you should pack you carry on for embarkation day wisely to ensure you have everything you need for your first few hours on board the ship.

During your first few hours on board you’ll want to hit the buffet for lunch, explore the ship and relax on deck, at the bar or in the pool. You’ll have your cruise carry on bag with you this whole time but won’t have access to your checked baggage so bear this in mind when packing your cruise carry on bag.

Our list of what to pack in cruise carry on bags will help you get organized and start your trip out smoothly. You’ll find a printable version of our cruise carry on list at the bottom of this post.

This list covers what to pack in your carry on bag for embarkation day if you’re checking a bag. If you’re wondering how to pack for a cruise in a carry on without checking a bag head over and read our guide.

• 1 What to Pack in Cruise Carry On Bag for Embarkation Day
• 2 Which Cruise Carry On Bag to Choose
• 3 Cruise Carry On Checklist Printable
• 4 Questions on What to Carry on a Cruise for Embarkation Day

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What to Pack in Cruise Carry On Bag for Embarkation Day

• Cruise documents – Printed copies of all your cruise documents are essential. It’s a good idea to put them in a plastic folder like this or folded in a travel document organizer like this .
• Pen – For filling out documents on the day
• Wallet – Make sure you get some cash out before your cruise for tipping and whilst in ports
• Valuables – All your valuables (iPad, jewelry, extra cash) should be in your carry on bag as sometimes luggage does go missing between the port and the ship
• Medications – Pack your medications in your carry on bag for safety reasons
• Lanyard – For your ship card once you board
• Book / eReader – For reading in the queues, while you travel or once you get on board. A Kindle Paperwhite is best for bright sunlight.
• Phone charger
• Powerbank – Useful if you’ve had a long travel day to charge your phone/camera so you don’t miss getting pictures on the first day!
• Waterproof Phone Case – This is one of our top ten best items for cruising!
• Swimsuit & Coverup – A bathing suit coverup like this is great for cruising.
• Sunscreen – This one is the best!
• Soda Cans – Most cruise lines allow you to bring on soda in cans. This must go in your carry on luggage though so you’re stuck with it until you can access your stateroom. For this reason, we suggest using a wheeled suitcase for your cruise carry.
• Hand sanitizer
• Clorox Wipes – To wipe down your stateroom upon entry
• Water bottle – Bring a refillable water bottle so you can stay hydrated in embarkation queues and once you’re on board.
• Sweets or snacks – Something to sustain you while you’re in the queues for embarkation or to bribe kids to behave!
• Change of clothes – In case your luggage is lost or your spill something on your outfit. If you’re traveling with kids you’ll definitely want a change of clothes for them also.

Which Cruise Carry On Bag to Choose

Here are a few tips on which carry on luggage for cruise will work best for you:

• Backpack – A lightweight backpack works great for embarkation day. It keeps your hands free to wheel your checked luggage through the airport & port. Backpacks are also useful for more active excursion days once you’re cruising. We like lightweight backpacks like this that actually fold up up when not in use to save room in your cabin or when you’re traveling home and no longer need it.
• Tote Bag – Tote bags are ideal easy cruise carry on bags for embarkation day. It’s easy to whip your documents in and out when checking in. They’re also ideal for swim gear and can be used on excursion days as well. You can get  cute cruise-themed totes like this or go for a more sturdy tote bag like this .
• Suitcase – If you’re carrying soda cans or have limited ability to carry a bag on your shoulder or back for a long period then go for a small wheeled suitcase like this .

Cruise Carry On Checklist Printable

You can download and print our cruise carry on checklist here .

If you would like to use the spreadsheet version you can view it here. (Just save a copy for your own use.)

Questions on What to Carry on a Cruise for Embarkation Day

We hope this has helped you work out what to pack in a carry on bag for a cruise. When we took our Carnival cruise carry on items like this were essential to having a smooth embarkation process and a good first day on board. If you have any questions about what to carry on a cruise then do let us know in the comments below or by joining our Facebook group .

Still need help? Take our FREE email course!

If you still need help deciding what to pack for your upcoming cruise, sign up to take our short email course. You'll learn what to wear on a cruise, what little cruise essentials can really help, how to pack your bag, what the best suitcase to take is and what to leave behind. Sign up now. It's totally FREE!

We created Cruise Packing Tips to share our extensive knowledge on how to pack for a cruise. As seasoned cruisers who loves to pack just the right amount for each trip, we will help you get your cruise packing list down to a fine art.

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Cruise Packing List (2023): Carry On and Checked Bag Must Haves

Cruise Essentials Packing List

Repeat this mantra, “Cabin space is small.” Repeat it 10 times. Take it in and accept the fact that you have limited room space on a cruise ship .

Proceed to our cruise packing list below but don’t forget our mantra!

We start with the most important bag during your first day on board: The Carry On Bag.

On average, it takes about six hours before you can have access to your checked-in bags, so make sure that you have these items in your carry on with you:

Cruise Carry On Bag Packing List

Travel Documentation

✓  Passport - Make sure that your passport is up to date.

✓ Visa - If you need a visa for your cruise, make sure that you apply for it 3 to 6 months before your cruise.

✓ Identification Card - Bring at least two official ID card with you at all times.

✓ Driver's License - In case you plan on driving in certain destinations, you may want to get yourself an international driver’s license.

✓ Auto Insurance Card - In case you want to rent a car on days when the ship is docked at the port.

✓  Cash - Always bring cash, especially for the little towns who don't exactly take credit card.

✓ Clear Packing Cubes - This travel hack will keep your luggage organized and categorized. Also, these cubes from EzPacking are clear!  

Pro Tip: For safety, always keep a physical (print out) and virtual copy (screenshots on your phone) of your travel documents and identification. You can download any of these apps to scan your documents. You can also send them to yourself as an email attachment.

Important Documents

✓ Tickets - The night before your cruise, make sure that you have your tickets secured inside your carry-on bag.

✓ Travel Insurance - If you're unsure whether you should get travel insurance, check out why you absolutely should .

✓  Medical Insurance - It's important to note that your travel insurance and medical insurance are quite different. Before your cruise, check with your provider what your policy covers.

✓  Medical History - If you have any special or chronic conditions, make sure to let the cruise manager / director know about it prior to your trip. Also, prepare a detailed copy of your medical history, including instructions (e.g. where your medication is located, what medication you take, allergies, etc.) should an emergency occur.

✓  Emergency Contacts - Include phone numbers, emails, and mobile messenger profiles.

Pro Tip:  Store all your documents including your cards, itinerary and pocket money in an organizer. You can also make individual travel document kits - especially if you're traveling in a big group - using ziplock bags. Label each one before storing them inside your tote or backpack.

Tech Gadgets

✓  Mobile Phone - Put your mobile phone on airplane mode to avoid racking up international roaming charges. You can also check out this post on how to prep your smartphone for travel .

✓  Kindle - All those books you promised you would read? You can download them and finally finish them while traveling.  You don’t even need the latest version, this older generation Kindle works just as well for the fraction of a price. Load it up with some books you’ve been meaning to read before your cruise trip!

✓  Tablet - Before the cruise, download some movies / series from Netflix for offline viewing. Don’t forget to download while still on WiFi!

✓  Chargers - Use velcro cable ties or twist ties to keep your cables organized. You can also label each for quick access.

✓  Universal Adapter - More info for options on travel adapters here.

✓  Headphones - Bring a headphone splitter so you can share one device.

Pro Tip: Keep all your tech devices in one small packing cube for easy access. To avoid your devices from getting scratched, keep all your tech accessories and chargers in a separate extra small packing cube.

✓ Wallet - Keep some pocket money in your wallet for you to use in case of an emergency (meaning if you get hungry and need some snacks, or for a real emergency).

✓  Prescription Medication - Keep them in their original containers. Less questions will be asked when going through security.

✓  First Aid Kit - This is especially helpful when traveling with kids. Check out our post on what to pack.

✓  Toiletries - In an extra small packing cube , pack travel size (and TSA Approved) toiletries like toothbrush, toothpaste, moisturizer, contact lens solution, etc. You might also need sunblock, aloe gel, lip balm and hand sanitizer.

✓  Change of Clothes - You don't have to bring an entire outfit. In a small packing cube , pack clothes made from lighter, wrinkle-free fabrics like jersey or linen. Maybe even throw in a bathing suit and flip flops, if you want to hit the pool before your luggage arrives (or arrives late).

✓   Outerwear - Depending on the season you're traveling, you might want to bring a light cardigan or jacket with you. You can tie bulkier items like outerwear around your waist (or wear on the plane when it gets cold), so it doesn't take up space in you carry-on.

✓  Kids Entertainment Kit - If you're going to be stuck at the airport for a period of time or have nothing on your schedule yet after boarding, pack a small packing cube with books, art materials, puzzles and their favorite toys to keep them entertained.

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Pro Tip: If your kids are big enough, give them each a packing cube and let them pack their own traveling kit. It's a win win situation because they can decide what to take with them on the cruise, with your guidance of course!

Now let’s move on to your checked bag . Remember, you won’t see this bag until later during embarkation day. Pack other items that you won’t need as much (during your first day) here.

Cruise Checked Bag Packing List

✓  Underwear - Have at least 1 to 2 pairs of underwear for each day of your cruise.

✓  Socks - Pack 1 pair of socks for each day of your cruise and maybe one extra. Depending on the time of year, you may only be wearing sandals around the ship. But when it’s time to explore the little towns when docked, you’ll need walking shoes.

✓  Shirts / Casual Tops - If you want to make it easy to coordinate your outfits, choose solid neutral colors like white, beige or gray. To add a bit of playfulness, mix in a few classic striped shirts or shirts with subtle prints. Pack at least 1 shirt per day.

✓  Dress Shirts / Blouses - For men, bring 1 to 2 short sleeves or long sleeves dress shirts. For the ladies, bring a few dressier tops like a wrap shirt or ruffled blouse which you can wear during dinners.

✓  Shorts / Leggings - Khaki or twill shorts are good options for the men - easy to dress up or down and takes up less space in your suitcase. For the ladies, opt for shorts in darker colors like navy blue, olive green or khaki to get more wear out of them. Pack 2 to 3 pairs of leggings, which can be worn casually during the day or used for workout gear.

✓  Jeans / Trousers - Pack 2 to 3 pairs of pants, jeans or trousers. One pair of blue jeans, one pair of black jeans, and one other. Switch off using these throughout the trip.

✓   Formal Attire - Most cruises hold a special formal night for adults. Men can bring their own blazer and slacks. Pair them with a dress shirt and you’re done. A stylish wrap dress in a wrinkle free fabric works great for the ladies!

✓  Workout / Activewear (Optional) - Pack a few outfits if you have planned active excursions or if you want to hit the gym while on the cruise. Don’t forget to bring sports bras and extra socks too!

✓  Swimwear - Bring 1 to 2 swimsuits, depending on how much you plan on swimming.

✓  Rash Guard - A must have if you plan on doing activities on the water like surfing or water skiing. Find one that blocks UV rays so you're protected.

✓  Sarong - A very versatile piece of clothing...use it as swimsuit cover up, beach blanket, shawl or to keep warm during a flight.

✓  Cardigan / Sweater - The nights can be chilly on deck, so always keep a light cardigan or sweater with you.

Pro Tip: Organize and categorize items into different size packing cubes.

Organize a week’s worth of underwear and socks in a small packing cube . Shirts, shorts and leggings can go in a medium packing cube . Keep dress shirts looking sharp and wrinkle free by using our folding boards before packing them in a large packing cube .

✓  Walking Shoes - Always bring a good pair of walking shoes that have ample arch support.

✓  Flip Flops / Sandals / Water Shoes - For walking around the deck or for the pool, bring 1 pair of sandals.

✓  Formal Shoes - To pair with your dressy outfit for formal night! Men can’t go wrong with a classic oxford shoe. Two good options for the ladies: nude heels or brown wedges.

Pro Tip: Always pack your shoes in separate shoe bags to avoid marks and scratches.

Accessories

✓  Belt - Pack 1 belt you can wear with most outfits.

✓  Floppy Hat - A wide-brimmed, floppy, straw hat (like Samantha wears in Sex and the City) is the perfect cruise statement piece. Also, it gives you an extra layer of protection from the sun.

✓  Sunglasses - Choose sunglasses that block UVB ( can cause damage to the eyes from prolonged exposure).

✓  Day Bag - Depending on your style, your day bag can be cute, sporty or eco-friendly. Or how about a Kate Spade  fanny pack ? Yes. Fanny packs are back. Choose one that works best for you! Items to pack in your day bag can include: water, sunscreen, wipes, a change of clothes, phone charger, wallet, tissues, chapstick and other valuables.

Pro Tip: Use an extra small cube to keep items inside your day bag organized. Color code similar items by cube so you can easily find what you need during days off the boat.

Pro Tip: Use our extra small cube to keep your travel size toiletries organized. This toiletry bag is clear on three sides and is quart size. It’s TSA compliant so you can store all your carry on liquids here and just dump it in the security bin during inspection.

✓  Shampoo / Conditioner - Cruise ships usually provide this but you can bring travel size versions of your fave brands if you can’t leave home without them.

✓  Soap / Body Wash - These are also provided for but you can always bring your own if you have sensitive skin!

✓  Toothbrush / Toothpaste - Some cruise ships don’t provide these items. Bring travel size toothbrush, toothpaste and mouthwash.

✓  Deodorant - Try this natural deodorant - works well to keep your armpits dry and smelling fresh!

✓  Facial Wash / Wipes - Bring your fave facial wash & facial wipes for removing makeup after a long day.

✓  Moisturizer / Cream - Pack a moisturizing cream can be used for the face or the body.

✓  Sunscreen - These travel size ones are perfect for short cruise trips. Bring larger ones if you’re going to a tropical destination.

✓  Razor - Disposable razors are allowed in your carry on bag, electric ones should be packed in your checked bag.

✓  Cotton Swabs - Ever heard of swimmer’s ear? Pack some cotton swabs to keep your ears dry after swimming!

✓  Aloe Vera - An all around remedy for dry skin, itchy scalp and even sunburned skin. 

✓  UV Lip Balm - Your lips also need some TLC when it comes sun protection. 

✓  Feminine Hygiene - Pack some pads and tampons in case your monthly visitor arrives unexpectedly. You can buy some onboard too but they’re twice or three times the price!

✓   Clear Makeup Essentials Bag - Keep all your cosmetics in a clear makeup bag . Pack the essentials like foundation, powder, eyebrow pencil, mascara, blush and your lipsticks.

✓  Hair Comb / Brush - Opt for a small detangler brush.

✓   Hair Tools - When you want to look extra glam for special nights (we get you). Cruise cabins usually have hair dryers on board. But you can bring mini versions of a  hair straightener or curling iron . Go for ceramic ones if you don’t want the humidity messing up your hair do!

✓  Hair Ties - It’s windy on deck so to avoid hair getting on your face, bring some hair ties. 

✓   Nail Clippers - Bring 1 pair in your toiletry bag (you are allowed to bring this on the plane).

✓   Wipes - These are great for your day bag (for sanitizing dirty hands or refreshing after a long day of sightseeing).

✓  Contact Lens + Solution - Bring a few extra pairs if you have disposable or daily lenses.

✓  Baby Powder - Bring a small travel size one, good for freshening up or removing sand from the feet or body.

First Aid Kit

✓  Motion Sickness Meds - Must have even if you’re not prone to motion sickness. This travel size non-drowsy dramamine is recommended! Remember to drink a capsule an hour before your cruise trip. You can also bring some ginger chews to resolve motion sickness.

✓   Ibuprofen - Great for headaches, backaches, muscle pain or cramps.

✓   Imodium - For resolving stomach upsets that can ruin a good cruise vacation.

✓   Benadryl - Keep allergies at bay with some benadryl on hand!

✓  Prescription Meds - Don’t forget to pack prescription meds as well and keep them in their original packaging.

✓  Fiber Supplement - Can help ease stomach problems (especially when you’ve eaten or drank too much).

✓   Antibiotic Ointment - To prevent wounds from being contaminated by germs.

✓  Bandaids - Bring different size ones so you can cover all sorts of wounds (hopefully there’s no need).

✓  Bug Repellent - Must have if you’re going to forests or insect-laden areas. These insect repellent wipes are convenient and works as well as aerosol based ones.

Pro Tip: Pack all your first aid essentials in an extra small cube . Keep it in your carry on bag or day bag in case an emergency happens!

Electronics

✓  Camera + Charger - A waterproof camera if you can budget for it is recommended! Don’t forget to pack extra batteries and memory cards.

✓  Smartphone / Tablet - Load your smartphone or tablet with offline maps of your excursions so you don’t have any excuse for not exploring!

✓   Portable Charger - So you can keep charging your devices offboard!

✓  Power Strip - Make sure you bring a power strip without a surge protector, this one fits the bill and even has USB outlets for electronics. Some cruise lines don’t allow power strips though. An alternative is a USB charger (also lessens the adaptors you need to bring on your trip).

✓  Waterproof Watch - Opt for a cheap, waterproof watch and remember to set it on your ship’s time.

Safety / Survival

✓   Small Flashlight - Handy when going in the bathroom during the dark or during evening shore excursions.

✓  Whistle - This brightly colored whistle is a must have, it’s loud and comes with its own lanyard so you can easily hang it on your neck.

Cabin Comfort

✓  Night Light - S o you don’t have to worry about stumbling in the dark cabin!

✓  Magnetic Hooks - Extra hanging spaces for clothes, towels and hats. You can easily attach them on your cabin’s metal walls or doors.

✓  Disinfecting Spray - Keep your cabin extra clean with the help of a disinfectant spray. As soon as you reach your cabin, spray  on surfaces and items like remote control or AC control.

✓  Door Decor - Cabin doors look alike and decorating yours is an easy way to find your room. Instead of adhesive decors, use magnetic ones to avoid damaging the door. 

✓  Clip Magnets - Use them for attaching your itinerary, daily activity letter and other notes so you can keep track of them easily.

✓  Air Freshener - Cabins can sometimes smell musty and feel stuffy after a few days. A solid air freshener can help mask any odors and help keep your room fresh!

✓   Clips / Clothespins - Useful for when you’re hanging towels on the windy pool deck or for when you’re drying clothes on your balcony!

✓  Clear Packing Cubes - Staying organized in your cabin can sometimes be a struggle. Use clear packing cubes to separate and organize your items. Color coding is also a great option to organize a family! The Starter Set includes one of each size and is perfect for a carry on suitcase.  When arriving to your cabin, use the cubes as traveling drawers. There’s no need to unpack your clothes during your cruise because of our cubes’ see-through design!

✓  Lanyard - You’ll need your ship card for all onboard amenities. Use a lanyard to keep your ship card close to you all the time.

✓  Waterproof Smartphone Case - If you have planned water activities, keep your smartphone protected with a waterproof case.

✓   Mini Binoculars - Must have for stunning cruise destinations like Alaska or Hawaii.

✓  Float Strap - Just attach this strap to any of your gadgets and it will magically float on water.  

✓  Laundry Bag - Keep your clean clothes separated from the dirty! This turquoise drawstring one is perfect for small cruise ship cabins.

✓  Water Bottle - This collapsible water bottle is perfect because it folds into a compact size when not in use. Note: Fill a disposable cup with water or juice before transferring it to your water bottle.

✓   Highlighter Pens - Bring 2 different color highlighters so you can mark those activities that you like and those that you don’t in the cruise daily newsletter.  

✓   Wrinkle Releaser Spray - This works wonders for reducing wrinkles in clothes!

✓  Stain Remover Wipes - For removing food, drink or makeup stains on the go, these Shout Wipe and Go Wipes are valuable!

✓  Extra Eyeglasses + Strap - Bring an extra pair of eyeglasses in case your current one gets broken! An eyeglass strap is also nice to secure your eyeglasses around your neck when swimming or sightseeing.

✓  Snacks - Bring some fruit, trail mix and granola bars. Very handy during midnight hunger pangs or when you don’t want to eat out during excursions!

✓   Jewelry Roll - Keep your jewelry items and accessories safe with this   travel jewelry roll . Also helps keep necklaces from getting tangled!

✓   Wet Bag / Plastic Bag - Something to keep your wet clothes like swimsuits or towels in.

Now you know what to pack for your cruise! Let’s move on to what type of bags are best for your cruise vacation.

The Best Bags for Cruise Trips

You’ll need 3 bags for your cruising adventure: a carry on bag, checked bag and day bag. Optional bags you can bring are a fanny pack and an evening purse (for the ladies). Here’s what we recommend:

Ideal Carry On Bags for a Cruise

✓   Osprey Farpoint 55 Travel Backpack - We recommend a backpack as a carry on bag for a cruise trip. Why? Because you’ll be exploring the ship during your first day / embarkation. And lots of other guests will be doing the same as you! You can bypass the long elevator lines with a backpack. The Osprey Farpoint 55 is a good one, it’s within carry on standards and even has a detachable day pack you can use for shore excursions.

✓   Samsonite Hardside Spinner 21 - If you want to avoid carrying bags on your back,  a spinner suitcase is a good alternative. The Samsonite Hardside Spinner 21 fits within airline carry on luggage restrictions. It is lightweight and compact but has lots of room inside for your cruise essentials!

Ideal Checked Bags for a Cruise

✓   Samsonite Advena Checked Luggage - If you have the tendency to overpack, pick this softside 29 inch luggage by Samsonite. Since the material is soft, it expands when you fill it with excess stuff! If you’re cruising with your husband, this suitcase fits the EzPacking Packing Cubes Complete Bundle  set perfectly when stacked vertically.

✓   Amazon Basics Hardside Spinner Luggage (28 Inch) - Pick a hardside luggage that’s roomy but durable. The Amazon Basics Hardside Spinner is a good deal for the price! Choose the premium version so you can lock your luggage for safely.

Ideal Day Bags for a Cruise

✓  Backpacks - We love backpacks because they keep you hands free! Here’s an affordable and waterproof but sturdy unisex backpack that’s great for hiking, beach or even sightseeing shore excursions. The Kipling City Pack is perfect for short city excursions.

✓  Tote Bags - Bring a lightweight tote bag you can pack with your essentials for a day off the boat.

You probably got EVERYTHING covered for your cruise trip by now. But keep reading for more important information about cruising.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Do you need a passport to go on a cruise? The State Department recommends bringing your passport or passport book regardless of the type of cruise you’re going on. Although if you’re taking a closed loop cruise , you’re not required to bring your passport. Any government issued proof of citizenship like driver’s license and birth certificate will do. However, in case of an emergency (like an illness or accident), you will be required to present your passport when you need to fly back home.

Do you need a visa for a cruise? Specific port of entries might require guests to present a visa. Some visas can be obtained online or onboard. Check out this website and input the necessary information to find out whether you’ll need a visa for your cruise.

Is it better to book a cruise early or late? There are pros and cons to either. Booking early means you can plan your itinerary well and choose your preferred cabin. However, if you have any last minute changes, you might be charged. Booking late means you can find bargains for cabins for lower rates. The downside is you can’t be choosy with the cabin you get and if you live far from the port of entry, booking a last minute flight can be expensive!

Do travel agents help you save money on a cruise? The rates offered by a travel agent are typically the same with booking a cruise directly from the cruise line / website. Agents sometimes have access to group pricing though (bulk buying for cabins). Plus, agents can offer extras or perks like prepaid gratuities, free onboard spending money and complimentary wine or dinner.

When is the best time to go on a cruise? The answer depends on the type of cruise you want to go on. For example, if you’re cruising to Alaska, the best months are June and July especially for wildlife spotting. This is also the peak tourist season (considering the short sailing period from May to September only). Cruising to the Caribbean? It’s a year round destination but it’s best to avoid sailing during hurricane season. Also take into consideration your goals for cruising! If you want to avoid tourists and high rates, go for the off season.

Do cruise ships avoid storms? Cruise ships are equipped with advanced weather monitoring systems. Cruise captains monitor weather changes intensely and can predict the path or intensity of a hurricane. Additionally, cruise ships move faster than hurricanes, staying out of its way and avoiding trouble. If ever a certain port of call is considered a danger area (because of a storm), the cruise ship can reroute and find an alternative port to dock.

What is the average cost of a cruise? A typical 7-day cruise costs around $700 to $1,400 (including taxes and gratuities). This rate doesn’t include extra tips, special meals, shore excursions and airfare.

Is food free on a cruise? Your cruise fare includes breakfast, lunch and dinner. These meals are available on the main dining room and buffet deck area. Other casual dining areas like pizzeria, burger and barbecue areas are also included in the cruise rate. However, you have to pay to eat at specialty dining areas (themed restaurants) as they’re not included in the cruise rate.

What drinks are free on a cruise? Water, flavored water, juices, regular tea or coffee are free on cruises. Sodas aren’t usually free (except on a Disney cruise). The same goes for specialty drinks, beer, wine and cocktails.  

Do you have to tip on cruises? Most cruise lines have prepaid gratuities. If you opt not to pay for it before your cruise trip, you may  be charged on a per day basis. If you don’t withdraw or reimburse gratuities, then tipping extra isn’t required (though appreciated).

Is alcohol allowed on a cruise? Most cruise lines (except Costa Cruises and MSC Cruises) allow 1 to 2 bottles of champagne or wine onboard. Only a few cruise lines aren’t as strict with alcoholic beverages (including Seabourn Cruises and Silversea Cruises). Note that only those who are of legal drinking age are allowed to bring these beverages onboard.

What items are not allowed on a cruise? Different cruise lines have varying rules on which items are allowed and not allowed on the ship. It’s best to check your cruise line’s website to learn more about their restrictions. Below is a general list of items typically not allowed on a cruise ship:

✘ Firearms, ammunitions and weapons (including realistic replicas)

✘ Sharp objects like knives and scissors with blades more than 4 inches

✘ Any illegal drugs and substances

✘ All explosives and flammable liquids including fireworks and torch lighter

✘ Potentially dangerous sporting equipments (baseball bats, hockey sticks, etc.)

✘ Items that generate heat or produce flame (like coffee maker, clothes iron, electric kettle, etc.), hair straighteners and curling irons are allowed in most cruise lines

✘ Hoverboards, scooters, roller skates, etc.

✘ Extension cords with surge protector

✘ Self defense items including pepper spray

✘ Remote controlled helicopters or drones (some cruise lines allow these but you can only use them off board)

✘ HAM radios, walkie talkies (some cruise lines allow this), satellite phones, etc.

Different cruise lines and their types

There are many different cruise lines around the world with various ships. The most common type is the mainstream cruise ship. This cruise type appeals to the masses because of the numerous activities and amenities onboard. A luxury cruise is more spacious and has upscale cabins or suites. It also has more sophisticated amenities and dining options.

River cruise ships sail on smaller waterways and canals. These types of cruise appeal to couples, not so much families. And finally, there’s the expedition cruise ships which sail to more remote regions of the world. These ships are smaller than the mainstream or luxury cruise ships. This last type of cruise is perfect for explorers and nature lovers.

Here’s a list of the most popular cruise lines around the world:

We hope this guide answered all your questions about cruising!

Stay tuned because we have a lot more cruise blog posts in store for you!

Happy Cruising!

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26 cruise packing hacks you need to know before you sail

Packing for a cruise is an art form, and everyone has their favorite cruise packing hacks. I've scoured the Internet, talked to fellow cruisers and even been known to sneak peeks inside cabins with open doors, always looking for newer or better ways to pack and manage all the stuff we need to take with us on a cruise.

The result is a list of cruise packing hacks that includes some tried-and-true advice (like taking magnets because cruise ship cabin walls are metal), as well as a few things you might not have heard before.

For cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Here's hoping you find some useful and creative tips in this list of the top 26 cruise packing hacks.

Hacks for getting started on your cruise packing

Make a list before you put anything in a suitcase

I created a cruise packing list in the reminder app on my phone. I use the same list for every cruise but add to or subtract from it based on the destination. I start tweaking my list weeks before the cruise so I know exactly what I need when it's time to pack.

Note which items you need to buy before your trip, whether it's additional travel-sized toiletries, a new swimsuit or an outfit for pirate night, white night or an '80s-themed party.

Prep your luggage before you pack for your cruise

No matter what kind of luggage you take, checked and carry-on bags should have personal tags with your name, email address and phone number. It should also be easily distinguished from other bags from a distance. You can use brightly colored handle wraps, zip ties, ribbons, straps or stretchy covers over the whole bag.

Why should you personalize your suitcase? Recently, I got off a small commuter jet in Phoenix that had required all passengers to gate-check our roll-aboard bags. As I ran to my connecting gate 10 minutes later, I heard an announcement alerting passengers from my earlier flight to check they had the correct carry-on bag. Someone had mistakenly grabbed the wrong bag on the jet bridge. Had it been me, I would have missed my connection.

Also, remove all old cruise and airline tags and stickers from your luggage to avoid confusion.

Related: How to cruise with just a carry-on

Consider a digital tracking device

It happens. I've met people with missing luggage on every ship I've sailed this year, but a digital tracking device can save the day when the airline loses your bag, or you're fretting that your suitcase didn't make it onto the cruise ship. TPG staffers swear by Apple AirTags and similar tracking devices that allow you to see in real time where your bags are.

A friend's bag was recently lost in Athens, and he might not have retrieved it in time for his cruise had he not placed a tracker inside that clearly showed the airline personnel that his bag was in the airport. A woman on a recent Celebrity cruise told me Delta refused to help her because their tracking showed her bag was delivered to the carousel. Had she used a digital tracking device, she could have proven them wrong and possibly gotten her bag back. Related: What it's really like to use Apple's AirTags to track your luggage

Buy a cruise tag sleeve

Mainstream cruise lines supply bag tags with your name and cabin number that you print at home. This leads to a conundrum: Do you affix the flimsy paper tags at home before you fly (and risk them getting ripped off), or do you wait until you arrive and hope you can locate a stapler?

My cruise packing hack is to buy clear plastic sleeves made specifically for this purpose. Put the printed tags in the sleeves, keep them in your carry-on bag, then attach them to all your luggage before you head to the pier. Yes, you'll want to affix the cruise line tags to your carry-ons in case you accidentally walk away from them during the boarding process or once on board.

Download a sleep app

You could pack a portable fan or bulky white noise machine to block out ship sounds at night ... or you could save space in your luggage and download a white noise or other sleep sounds app instead. Test out a few to find your perfect soothing sounds.

While you're at it, download your cruise line, airline and pre-cruise hotel's app, as well as the Mobile Passport Control app to speed up the customs process.

Print your cruise boarding documents

As much as I recommend using the cruise line's app, more than once, I have found myself standing in a cruise terminal with terrible phone and Wi-Fi service, making it impossible to show my boarding documents in the app. Always have a printed copy as your backup plan. You'll get on board much more quickly.

Choose the best credit cards for the trip (and take more than one)

Check your card offers before you leave home. Before my last cruise, I noticed I could register for 5 points per dollar on restaurant charges on my airline-branded credit card. It came in handy for airport food and pre-cruise dining. Extra points or miles for ride-hailing services, taxis and car rentals are also common. However, you won't know if you don't check beforehand.

Don't just take one card. Traveling makes you a target for thieves and scammers. You don't want to be stranded in a foreign country with your only credit card deactivated because a scammer forced you to shut it down.

Related: Use these credit cards to maximize your next cruise vacation

Cruise clothing packing hacks

Pack separately for hotel nights

Packing everything you need for a hotel night in your carry-on helps you in two ways: You won't need to dig through your large suitcase for clothes or toiletries for one or two nights. Also, you will have at least some necessities should the airline lose your main suitcase.

If you can't fit clothes in your carry-on, at least pack your pre-cruise necessities in a separate packing cube placed at the top of your suitcase, so you can pull it out and not tear apart your carefully packed bag.

Pack like you have a pre-cruise stay — even if you don't

Even if you're flying straight from home to the cruise port, pack like you're spending a night in a hotel. Pack a complete change of clothes and necessary toiletries in your carry-on bag.

Why? Delays and lost luggage. If something goes wrong with your flight, you're prepared with everything you need to get by during an unexpected overnight layover or a day without your checked bags.

Related: Items you should always pack in your cruise carry-on bag

Do the same when traveling home from your cruise. You'll be prepared for travel delays and can take advantage of airline offers for gift cards or travel vouchers if you volunteer for a different flight due to overbooking. I once made $1,200 taking an overnight bump in Frankfurt while returning from a cruise. If I hadn't packed an extra outfit in my carry-on bag, I might not have been tempted to take the deal.

Do the math: Cruise ship laundry costs vs. airline baggage fees

Everyone has their preferences when it comes to doing laundry on vacation. Some people pack a different outfit for each day, while others pack light and plan to wash clothing on board. Personally, I pack a little less and either do a load of laundry in the self-serve laundry facilities (if available) or pay for a few pieces to be washed and folded.

Before you decide, do the math. It might be cheaper or more convenient to pay for someone else to do your washing mid-cruise if it means you can avoid checking a bag.

Related: Everything you need to know about cruise ship laundry services

Use packing cubes for faster unpacking

The best part about organizing your cruise luggage with packing cubes is that unpacking is super quick.

When your bags arrive, pull out each cube, unzip, fold the top underneath the filled bottom portion of the cube and place the entire thing in a drawer without unpacking it. Use as many as you need to organize each person's things the way you would want them organized in the cruise cabin's drawers. The unpacking process will take mere minutes, and then it's back to the pool deck.

Shoes belong in shoe bags

Packing cubes often include a shoe bag or two. You'll need several. Shoe bags prevent sand or dirt from getting on your clothes and other belongings. I don't know about you, but my flip-flops and water shoes do not belong next to my snorkel or my water bottle.

Reduce the number of shoes you need by packing fancy sneakers

My mom has the right idea about footwear on cruise ships. She wears sparkly sneakers — even on dress-up nights. I recently ditched my heels for comfortable black sneakers I pair with skirts, slacks and dresses. If your cute sneaks can stand up to touring by day but look good with your evening wear, you've just saved a ton of space in your suitcase.

Men often have it even easier, getting by with a single pair of dress sneakers for an entire cruise.

Related: Cruisewear for men: What guys should pack for a cruise

Stuff your bras inside your straw hat

If you're packing a straw hat, you'll need to protect it inside your luggage. Bras are ideal for this. Or, purchase a cylindrical zippered bra laundry bag. Put it in the crown of your hat. If there's extra space, wrap the bra bag with a pair of tights or yoga pants. You can also coil belts inside a hat.

Similarly, stuff sneakers or dress shoes with socks or rolled-up ties to protect the shoe's shape and use all available space for packing.

Choose a color palette

If everything you pack coordinates with everything else, you can mix and match endlessly. I go with black pants, shorts and skirts because you can add almost any color top. I add a few black tops, including one with sequins, that I can jazz up with scarves, which weigh less and take up less room than most evening wear. Plan to re-wear bottoms at least twice during your trip.

Related: What to wear on a cruise: Cruise attire and cruise line dress codes

Prioritize layers

You can never entirely predict the weather where you are cruising. Even on a Caribbean cruise, you could encounter an afternoon rain storm or chilly dining rooms and theaters on board. Prioritize clothing you can layer, such as sweaters, lightweight vests and zip-up hoodies.

Consider travel pants with zip-off legs that convert them to shorts. Also, you can wear a lightweight UPF shirt over a tank top if the sun's rays are harsher than expected. Packing with layers in mind can provide more space than packing individual outfits for every possible weather scenario.

Packing hacks for your cruise cabin

Use magnets to organize your vacation

Cruise ship walls are typically magnetic, so you can use magnets to make your cabin more usable. Keep your daily newsletters, invitations and excursion tickets in order with magnetic clips affixed above the desk.

Magnetic hooks corral caps, visors, belts, backpacks, jackets and charging cords. Magnetic whiteboards allow you to leave messages for cabinmates. You can also use magnets to decorate your cabin door.

Upgrade your shower

Cruise ship showers are notoriously cramped and often lack functional amenities. Pack items that will upgrade the experience.

Shower shelves and small baskets that attach to the shower walls or glass door via a suction cup will provide additional toiletry space, while suction-on hooks are handy for drip-drying swimsuits. Binder clips or magnetic shower weights can help clingy curtains stay in place. Also, bring a pack of aromatic shower steamers for a cheaper version of the aromatherapy showers found in the ship's spa.

Pack night lights — even if you're not traveling with kids

Cruise ship cabins can be extra dark at night, especially if you've pulled the blackout curtains closed or have booked a windowless inside cabin. Night lights can help you find your way to the bathroom in the middle of the night without waking your cabinmates.

As electrical outlets are in short supply in most cruise cabins, you'll need a battery-powered light, preferably motion-activated, if you don't want it on all night.

Laugh all you want, but I carry one that's designed to light up the toilet at night because it has a flexible arm that I can hook somewhere or position where I want it. A magnetic, battery-powered, motion-activated night light might be the perfect cruise ship device.

Related: 26 cruise secrets from a cruising expert that will blow your mind

Take along a hanging shoe-storage bag, but not for shoes

If you're packing enough shoes to warrant a 24-pocket shoe organizer, you're probably over-packing, even for a world cruise. Instead, use the shoe organizer to pack and store your toiletries and other small items easily lost in your cabin clutter.

Cruise lines don't want you scraping their doors with those metal over-the-door hangers, so affix the organizer with magnetic hooks instead.

Six 22-pound magnets across the top of the organizer keep it firmly in place with almost anything I want inside the pockets. If the shoe organizer is too big, cut it in half or into thirds and use flat magnets to attach the pieces without grommets. Again, make sure you buy extra-strong magnets so the full organizer does not slide down the wall or door.

Hang the toiletry bag outside the bathroom — it makes sharing the already-cramped bathroom easier.

Extend your power

Rare is the cruise cabin with enough electrical outlets in the spaces where you want them most. Solve that problem by packing a couple of outlet extenders. If they aren't surge-protected, most cruise ships allow these splitters.

Another option is an adapter that plugs into a European outlet, adapting it to a 110-volt U.S. standard outlet. That allows you to use both the European and U.S. outlets in your cabin.

Take a laundry bag

Don't let dirty laundry accumulate on the floor of your cabin's closet or around your room. Pack a lightweight bag you can fill as you go, then pack it with its contents intact at the end of the trip. If you're extra organized, sort laundry by travel companion or separate colors from whites. Top the bags off with dryer sheets when they are full to reduce odors. The goal is to make both end-of-cruise packing and laundry day back home easier.

Alternatively, open up one suitcase under the bed and throw all your dirty clothes in there as you go.

Miscellaneous cruise packing hacks

Take lots of zippered plastic bags in various sizes

Need a place to stash that extra cookie you brought back from the buffet? Swimsuit didn't dry quickly enough to pack it on your last night? Worried about your camera getting wet in the rain? Want to organize your stuff rather than tossing it loose into your backpack? Plastic bags will help you in all of these situations and more. I always pack several sizes to have on hand when I cruise.

Pack duct tape

I learned this cruise packing hack from TPG's Ashley Kosciolek , but I learned it the hard way. I initially ignored her advice and found myself roaming the streets of Bonaire in search of duct tape to repair a scuba fin broken by baggage handlers. In the end, I had to buy a new set of fins. I've also faced cracked luggage and even sunglasses that could have been salvaged if only I'd had some duct tape. Now I pack it for every sailing.

Related: 20 must-have cruise items — including a roll of duct tape

Think inside little boxes

Tiny containers like pill organizers and contact lens cases are handy for packing small things like earrings, necklaces, small dabs of cosmetics or medications. Before you buy special travel organizers for jewelry or cosmetics, consider repurposing items you have at home.

Don't forget to take a first aid kit

Yes, the cruise ship's medical facility will have basics. However, it's easier and cheaper to pack your own first-aid kit.

Here's a starter list:

• Over-the-counter pain relief
• Allergy medicine
• Motion-sickness tablets
• Skin-relief lotion like aloe
• Medicated ointment for minor cuts
• Anti-itch cream for bites
• Eye and swimmer's ear drops

Packing these items can save you from a visit to the onboard clinic or overpriced cruise ship sundries shop.

Bottom line

Packing for a cruise doesn't have to be hard, but it does take some foresight — and a little ingenuity.

Your cruise cabin will not be as spacious as the average hotel room, but a little creativity can help overcome cruise cabin shortfalls.

When it comes to fitting everything into your suitcase, the best advice is to pack less than you think you need and find cruise packing hacks that let clothing items do double duty.

Ultimately, the best cruise packing hacks take some of the stress out of preparing for your cruise vacation, so getting ready for your trip can be enjoyable, too.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• Top ways cruisers waste money
• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

Your Essential Cruise Carry-On Bag: Ideas for Smart Items to Pack (With Checklist)

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When you arrive at your cruise ship, certain important items should be kept with you until you reach your cabin. If you are flying to your port and going directly to the ship, this bag will also be your flight carry-on bag.

Here’s how to decide what should be in your cruise carry-on bag.

What Is A Cruise Carry-On Bag

Also known as an embarkation day bag, this is a bag or tote that you carry with you from the port to your cabin, not allowing it out of sight. It contains the most crucial items you need for your cruise.

Why lug around a carry-on bag on the first day of your cruise?

When you arrive at the port to go on your cruise, your luggage is whisked away to be X-rayed for dangerous or prohibited items before being delivered to your cabin. Delays can happen, and you might be onboard for hours before your luggage is delivered to you.

So you’ll have everything you might need during those first few hours onboard (as well as when you’re flying to the port), you should keep certain items with you at all times until you can secure them in your cabin.

► NOTE : Whether it’s just a tote bag or a small roller bag, it’s important that your cruise carry-on stays with you until your cabin is ready and you can safeguard your valuables.

After going on many cruises in the last few years, I’ve come up with a list of must-haves that I pack in my cruise carry-on for all our voyages. I’ve expanded the list to try to cover any eventualities I could think of, so feel free to pick and choose among the items listed here for what works best for you.

Ultimate Cruise Planner

Need a little assistance organizing and planning your cruise? Our Ultimate Cruise Planner can help!

How To Decide What To Pack In Your Cruise Carry-On Bag

There are a few criteria to think about as you’re packing for your cruise , decisions that determine whether an item will go into your luggage or into a bag that you’ll keep with you at all times until you arrive at your cabin. These are:

• Will the loss of the item mean that I can’t continue on my trip, or will losing it ruin my trip?
• Is the item valuable? Would someone be tempted to steal it?
• Is the item difficult or prohibitively expensive to replace during my trip?
• Will I need this item sometime during the first day, before my luggage is delivered?

If the answer to any of these questions is yes , then the item should be in your cruise carry-on bag. I hope this list can help you remember what might be essential for you to take and will act as a starting point and memory jogger.

I’m a big fan of having my belongings organized on a trip, which helps with packing, unpacking, and keeping track of small belongings while you’re traveling. I’ve included some suggestions that you might want to consider for your next trip if you want to be more organized too.

Cruise Carry-On Checklist

Would you like to have a FREE Cruise Carry-On Checklist to help you with packing for your next cruise?

Items You Might Want To Pack In Your Cruise Carry-On Bag

There are many items that you might want to consider packing in your cruise carry-on bag. You won’t want to carry all these items around with you all afternoon on day one of your cruise, but some of them are incredibly important to safeguard that way. Others, like snacks, may not be important to you at all, unless you have special dietary needs.

Important Paperwork

Without the proper documents, you probably won’t get far, so these are the most important things to pack first. It’s also a good idea to be prepared for travel delays, accidents, and misadventures…just in case. Better to have these things and not need them, than to need them and not have them, right?

Passport Holder

Want to be super-organized with your documents? Check out passport holders like this one, which is the one we use every time we travel. It keeps your passport safe from damage and has an extra slot for your vaccination card.

Identification for travel : Driver’s license, passport, visa, and green card (if you’re a resident alien).

Travel documents : Airline boarding passes, hotel reservation confirmations, cruise documents, excursion reservation confirmations, vaccination cards, and airline lounge cards.

Insurance information : Cards, coverage information, and contact information for your health insurance, travel insurance, travel interruption insurance, and car insurance (if you’re renting a car during the trip).

Carrier information : Contact info for cruise line and airline customer service, and for any hotels you may have booked.

Your emergency contact info : Names, phone numbers, and email addresses of those you’d like to be notified on your behalf in case of emergency.

Your legal documents : Although I hope you never need them, it’s a good idea to have a copy of your signed health care power of attorney and living will with you when you travel, especially if you have health issues.

Keep Your Passwords Handy

It’s so frustrating to be away from home and unable to log into a website you desperately need access to. Having your passwords with you gives you peace of mind. I use a book just like this one for my personal login info, then one in another color for my business logins.

Authorization for travel with a minor: If you’re bringing a child on the cruise who isn’t yours, say a grandchild, you need a notarized permission from the parents for the child to travel with you.

Health information : A list of the medications you’re taking, as well as a brief medical history (a list of surgeries, hospitalizations, etc.).

Copies : In case they’re lost or stolen, keep a copy of your passport and any credit cards you’re bringing on your trip (both front and back).

Just in case : Pen and a small notepad.

Ziploc bag : In the event you’re forced to stand outside in the rain while waiting to board your ship, you want your important documents to stay protected. A large Ziploc bag is perfect for this. It’s also good to take along with you in a backpack or tote bag on excursions.

Wallet : Safeguard your wallet and keep it with you.

Cash : It’s a good idea to have some cash with you, not only for emergencies or gambling but also for some small bills for any gratuities (such as for the baggage porters, or bus drivers on excursions).

Credit cards : I’d suggest only taking two or three credit cards with you and leaving the rest at home. It’s smart to not take a credit card that you use for automatic bill pay. That way if that card is lost or stolen, you have other options with you, and you don’t have to redo all your automatic bill payments when you get home. The card you used for your cruise and airfare should be among those you take with you, as well as a credit card that gives you perks you may be using on this trip (such as coverage for airline incidentals or airline lounge access).

House and car keys : Losing these could cause major worries during your trip, as well as difficulties afterward, so they should stay with you until you can leave them in your cabin’s safe.

Jewelry : Cash and credit cards can either stay in your wallet or in a travel organizer as I mentioned above. But for jewelry, it’s nice to have a specialized organizer to protect your jewelry and keep your necklaces tangle-free, while still being small enough to fit in a cabin safe. This organizer is attractive and compact, and protects necklaces, rings, watches, etc.

In this connected world, we like to have our devices with us, so here are a few things to consider.

Cell phone : You’ll need your phone, of course, and bonus points if it has a good enough camera that you don’t feel the need to bring your DSLR.

Something To Read

You may end up with time on your hands while you’re traveling, so I love to have something to read. My preference is a Kindle, since I can bring more than enough books to keep me entertained during the trip without taking up valuable real estate in my suitcase. Be sure to have it charged and preloaded with your genre of choice before your trip!

iPad or other tablet : I like to bring my iPad along on trips, not only to have games to entertain myself with on the plane, but also to have a larger device to transfer my travel photos to for viewing and editing while on the trip. And if I want to write a blog post or two, it’s easier to do on the iPad than on my phone.

Chargers and cables for all devices : Your tech devices will be nothing but paperweights if you can’t recharge them on your trip, so be sure to bring everything you need to keep them juiced up.

Organize Your Cables

This cable wallet is a great way to keep those charging cables organized while you’re on the go. Since an ill-fated trip where I had to pay $70 for a new charger for my iPhone, now I always keep my cables and chargers in my carry-on.

Universal adapters : If you’re traveling on a ship that doesn’t have American electrical outlets, or will be staying in a hotel outside the US during your trip, it’s a good idea to bring along a travel converter.

Portable charger : Have you ever been on an excursion and had your phone die on you? Yep, it’s happened to me. Now I always carry along a portable charger like this one so I can be sure I’ll stay connected and get all the photos I want.

Earbuds or Headphones : If you want to listen to music while you travel or are on vacation, or if you want to watch a movie on board your plane, it’s a good idea to have your own earbuds or headphones. Your needs and budget will determine whether you take along wired earbuds , wireless earbuds , or wireless headphones , but these are a few great choices.

Charge All Of Your Devices

Since many cruise cabins have limited electrical outlets and few or no USB chargers, it’s a good idea to carry your own. I always travel with this non-surge adapter, especially on older ships.

Health & Beauty

Medications : Be sure to take all prescription medications with you that you’ll need to take during your trip, plus a few days extra, just in case. The best practice is to bring prescription medication in its pharmacy bottle, but you do you. Also include any over-the-counter medications you may need, such as your solution of choice for seasickness, diarrhea, pain relief, or heartburn.

Antibacterial wipes and hand gel : Although I haven’t done it in the past, I’m bringing travel packs of disinfecting wipes and antibacterial gel with me on my next trip. Wiping down your airplane tray table and armrest is just smart these days, and the gel is perfect for your hands before you start popping airline pretzels or peanuts. The wipes will also come in handy when you arrive at your cruise cabin.

Vision needs : Glasses and/or contact case and fluid. Eye drops, because airplane air is extremely dry. Sunglasses, because you may spend time waiting in bright sunlight before boarding your ship, or because you want to hit the pool as soon as you get onboard. Eyeglasses, and maybe an extra pair if you depend on them and they break or lose a screw while you’re onboard.

Mini First Aid Kit

I like to put together a mini first aid kit for my carry-on, nothing more than a small Ziploc bag with pain relievers like ibuprofen, cough drops, a few Band-Aids, and the like. In my suitcase, I’ll pack a larger kit like this one with more options such as gauze, ointments, etc. If you ever have to get a Band-Aid or cough medicine from a cruise ship medical clinic or sundries shop, you know how expensive those can be.

Lip balm and hand lotion : Once again, because airplane air is so dry, it’s a good idea to have a lip balm with you, as well as a small tube of hand lotion.

Toothbrush and toothpaste : After a long day of travel, you might want to freshen up in your cabin before going exploring.

Deodorant : See above. LOL

Hairbrush : A lot of us are picky about our brushes and might feel lost without our special one, so toss yours in your carry-on.

Feminine products : If you use pads, tampons, or panty liners, be sure to bring a supply with you for the plane and your first few hours onboard the ship.

Rest In Quiet Bliss

If your headphones or earbuds aren’t noise canceling, or you simply want to be sure you’re not disturbed by noisy neighbors on the plane, in your cruise cabin, or in your hotel room, you should consider inexpensive earplugs. I’ve used the Mack’s brand of silicone putty earplugs for years and love them. Now I never travel without them.

Sunscreen and lip balm : A must, even in colder climates. Keep that skin protected!

Tissues : I always keep a travel packet or two of Kleenex or Puffs tissues in my bag on vacation. The sniffles can sneak up on you at any time.

Manicure items: You never realize how important a nail file and nail clippers are until you break or tear a nail away from home and don’t have a way to repair it.

Makeup : Want to always look your best? Be sure to pack whatever beauty products you need for a quick touch-up.

Extra outfit : What if your suitcase is lost or delayed, or someone spills a drink in your lap while you’re traveling? You won’t be miserable if you have another outfit handy. Bring along a top, a pair of pants, and extra underwear.

Pool attire: If you want to hit the pool as soon as you board the ship, you’ll want to have your bathing suit, coverup, and flip-flops in your carry-on. Your suitcase might take hours to arrive in your room, but you won’t care. You’ll be chilling by the pool with an umbrella drink in hand!

Be Ready For Downpours

An unlined lightweight rain jacket with a hood can be folded up small enough it won’t take much room in your carry-on. I’ve had to wait for my suitcase on the tarmac in a driving rain before when I took a regional jet to Seattle, and it wasn’t fun. Be prepared!

Scarf : Sometimes planes are extra cold, even in the summer, so a pashmina or other large scarf can cover the back of your neck or act as a small blanket. Either way, having something on hand to keep you warm is nice.

Cardigan or light jacket : If your plane is cold or you need to wait in line outside before boarding your ship, you’ll be glad you brought one of these along.

Food & Beverage

Snacks : A few granola bars, bags of nuts, or cookies can be a lifesaver on a flight, especially if you’ve skipped breakfast to make your flight, and the flight is too short for meals to be served. Don’t be hangry; grab a bar from your bag to tide you over until you can check out the ship’s restaurants for lunch.

Refillable Water bottle

I like to have water available in my bag on a plane, just in case I get a scratchy throat or need to take a pill. Double-wall insulated water bottles like these are great. On the ship, I refill mine from a pitcher of ice water I order each day from room service, and keep it by my bed. If you want a smaller, lighter version, look for a collapsible water bottle.

Gum and/or breath mints : The reason for these is obvious, right? If nothing else, they can be used to break the ice with an attractive seatmate if you’re single.

Kids’ Needs

If you’re traveling with children, you’ll probably need a carry-on just for their needs. Here are a few ideas:

Diapers and wipes : Bring enough in a carry-on for the entire first day.

Bottles or sippy cups : Be sure to also bring baby formula in TSA-approved containers.

Kid-friendly snacks : You know which snacks will keep your kids occupied and avoid the hangries. Bring some in plastic baggies.

Entertainment kit : Several small items to keep your child entertained on the plane.

Miscellaneous

Lanyards : If you don’t want to carry a purse onboard, a lanyard for your cruise card is a great option. We’ve tried these and found them to be good. I like to carry a small wallet with a shoulder strap while onboard, something just large enough for my phone, some eye drops and lip balm, and my cruise card.

Protect Your Luggage Tags

Print out the paper luggage tags provided by your cruise line and slip them into these durable luggage tag holders. Don’t put them on your luggage until you’re off your plane, though, so you don’t confuse the airline’s baggage handlers.

We use these for every cruise and have found them to be sturdy and durable, plus they protect your paper tags from the elements, which is a bonus in rainy Florida.

Bags To Consider For Your Cruise Carry-On Bag

Looking for a carry-on bag that can work as your personal item on a plane? Even though you won’t be needing ALL the items mentioned above, a regular tote bag might be too small for all your carry-on essentials, so something slightly larger would be great. If you pack an extra outfit per person plus your grooming kit bag, like we do, you might just use a regular airline carry-on. It’s a pain to drag around, but you don’t have to carry it and you have peace of mind.

How about something like one of these?

A Theft-Resistant Shoulder Bag

If you simply want a roomy shoulder bag that’s comfortable to carry, this theft-resistant bag from Travelon is what I carry…and I love it! It’s the size of a tote but is flexible, allowing you to easily bend it to fit under the plane seat in front of you.

Plus, it carries a lot! The outside zippers are lockable, and it has a detachable shoulder strap. Even without the extra strap, it fits comfortably over your shoulder and tucks safely under your arm.

A Cute Weekend Bag

If you like a shoulder bag, this striped weekender is the ticket. The bottom section unzips to reveal a separate shoe compartment, and the main compartment has pockets for all your goodies. It also has a pocket on the back that allows you to slide the shoulder bag securely onto your roller-bag handle.

A Small Roller Carry-On

If you’re looking for a roller bag small enough to fit under the airline seat in front of you, check this one out. It’s small, lightweight, and has several zipper compartments inside to organize your things. If you don’t want to actually carry your carry-on, this one is a good choice.

A Standard Roller Carry-On

If you’re looking for an airline carry-on, this is the one I use, and I love it. It’s lightweight and on spinner wheels, which makes it a breeze to navigate. It has plenty of room for an extra outfit for both of us, plus all of our valuables and other important items. This is what I carry with us when I bring my laptop and photography equipment on cruises.

Final Thoughts On Ideas For Your Cruise Carry-On Bag

If you’re not sure what you shouldn’t pack, check out our post on prohibited items on cruise ships . And if you’d like a handy checklist to help you pack your cruise carry-on, we have one for you!

On the last day of your cruise, keep this bag with you if you leave your cabin for any reason before leaving the ship. A travel companion of mine recently was robbed of jewelry and other items when they left their cruise carry-on in their cabin while going to breakfast before debarking the ship. You never know!

Hope this list helps you pack your carry-on for your next trip. And don’t forget to download our Cruise Carry-On Checklist .

Happy cruising!

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Planning to book a cruise? We have some tips for you .

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Pam and her husband, Myron, travel almost three months of the year, enjoying all the benefits of premium cruising. She's learned a thing or two and has a checklist for nearly everything related to cruising, and enjoys sharing those tips and lists with you.

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How To Choose The Best Cruise Luggage For Really Easy Family Travel

By: Author Elaine Warren

Posted on Last updated: October 14, 2023

Categories CRUISE TIPS , Packing , PREPARE , Travel Gear

Cruising with your family can be a lot of fun, but it’s important to make sure you have the right luggage for the trip. Luggage can be expensive, and you don’t want to waste your money on pieces that won’t hold up, that are too heavy to carry, or that are too large to fit in your stateroom comfortably. 

Here are some tips on choosing the best cruise luggage for your family. By following our guide, we’ll help you find pieces that are durable, lightweight, and work well for cruise ship travel. (We also provide some specific recommendations in the last section!)

Best Cruise Luggage: Factors To Consider When Choosing

When it comes to packing for a family cruise, the options can seem endless. But when it comes to choosing the best luggage for a cruise, there are a few key factors to keep in mind. Durability, weight, size, and internal storage space are all important considerations, but so is price. You don’t want to break the bank on luggage, but you also want pieces that will last and hold up well during your trip. 

Beyond that, think about your specific itinerary and what type of luggage will be most convenient for you. If you’re traveling to a tropical destination, for example, you’ll likely want something lightweight and beach-friendly that can hold all of your swimwear and sandals. If you’re going on an Alaskan cruise, you might need something to protect your sweaters and rain jackets and that’s large enough to handle bulky clothes. You’ll also want to consider what you will be wearing in the evening on your cruise .

Ask yourself what you’ll be bringing to get a sense of how much space you’ll need, and reference the cabin size before making your purchase so you don’t end up with luggage that’s too big for your stateroom.

An important consideration when choosing luggage for a cruise is durability . If your travel involves multiple legs, it will be handled by a wide range of people on many occasions and circumstances. At airports, cabs, hotels, and cruise terminals.

If possible, try to choose pieces that will withstand being dropped or knocked around by baggage handlers. Also, something that will still look decent after your trip is done. Rather than stained, dented, and scratched.

Consider the weight of your luggage. The lighter your luggage, the easier it will be to carry.

Heavier bags will cause your shoulders and neck to fatigue more quickly, which can be especially problematic if you’re doing a lot of walking during your trip.

Also, if you’re flying as part of your travels, the heavier the bag, the fewer items you will be able to pack without incurring additional charges on your checked bags .

Storage space

When deciding how much storage space to get in luggage that you plan to take on a cruise, consider the length of your trip, how much you plan to pack, and the climate of your destination. Another factor is the size of your items. Bulky items will take up more space than small items. If you have a lot of bulky items, you’ll need a bigger bag with more storage space.  Eg., beach packing vs Alaska packing .

If you’re going on a short trip, you can get away with a smaller bag. But if you’re going away for an extended period of time or traveling to a colder climate, you’ll need to pack a larger volume of clothing and accessories.

Ultimately, it’s important to choose a bag that’s big enough to fit everything you need but not too big or heavy that it becomes cumbersome to transport. Check out our guide on what to pack for a cruise .

Most cruises last a week or more, which means you will need to pack enough clothing and toiletries for the duration of your trip. You’ll also want to consider what activities or excursions you plan on doing while on your cruise.

You might think that you won’t need as many clothes on your cruise because it is mostly spent at sea, but the reality could be quite different. You will likely be changing more than once a day (for at least some if not all of your cruise days). Even if most days are lazy hours by the beach or pool, you’ll still find yourself donning fresh threads each evening, either for dinner or some other fun nightlife activity.

Maneuverability

For ease of use, consider purchasing luggage that has wheels or bags that can be carried using an adjustable shoulder strap. This will make it easier to navigate airports and cruise ships when you’re juggling other items like passports, carry-on baggage, travel documents, and kids.

Interior organization

To make unpacking easier, choose pieces of luggage that have mesh dividers in their compartments. This allows you to keep your items separated and easier to find.

Affordability

Another factor to consider is how much it costs.

Often times low-cost suitcases don’t have many of the features that high-end ones do, like self-repairing zippers or sturdy wheels that can handle bumpy roads or cobblestone streets. However, there are some inexpensive options out there that will get the job done without damaging your wallet too badly. Shop around until you find one that fits your needs. And check out our specific recommendations below.

What Kind of Luggage Is Best For a Cruise?

For our family cruises, we have found the following types of luggage to be the most useful: suitcases, duffel bags, garment bags, carry-on bags, and something specifically designated for port travel. Let’s take a closer look at each of these.

Suitcases are typically the centerpiece of your luggage choices. Broadly, there are two key distinguishing factors among suitcases: (1) wheels vs no wheels; and (2) hardside vs. softside.

Wheels vs No Wheels

It’s strongly recommended that you get suitcases with wheels. This feature will make it significantly easier to manage your luggage through airports, hotels, and cruise ship terminals.

There are a few reasons why the best suitcases for cruises have wheels. It’s much easier to navigate through airports and onboard the ship with a roller bag than it is to carry a suitcase. Likewise, it’s much more comfortable to walk long distances with a roller bag than it is to carry a heavy suitcase.

That said, rolling luggage is typically more expensive than luggage without wheels. And, sadly, sometimes wheels break off during travel, which then makes them very awkward to drag around.

Types of Wheels

When it comes to rolling luggage, you have two options – regular wheels and spinner wheels.

The main difference between wheeled luggage and spinner luggage is that spinner luggage can rotate 360 degrees, whereas regular wheeled luggage cannot. This is a major advantage because it means that you can easily move spinner luggage in any direction, even when it’s full. And this makes it much easier to navigate around corners and obstacles. 

Also, wheeled luggage is great for smooth surfaces like airport walkways and hotel hallways but can be a bit difficult to maneuver on uneven surfaces or cobblestones.  

Hardside vs Softside

Hardside luggage : This type of luggage is durable and scratch-resistant, making it ideal for cruises. It typically comes with a TSA lock, which keeps your belongings safe and secure.

There are pros and cons to using hardside luggage for cruise travel. On the pro side, hardside luggage is generally more durable and can better protect your belongings than softside luggage. It can withstand more wear and tear. It’s also less likely to get damaged during transit, either by being thrown around or by having items stacked on top of it. 

Hardside suitcases also provide a bit more stability than soft sides, so your belongings are less likely to move around inside the suitcase during transport. Additionally, hardside luggage tends to be easier to keep clean than softside luggage.

On the con side, some people find that hardside luggage is more difficult to pack into tight spaces than softside luggage. It typically does not have outside pockets for storing small travel items. It also typically weighs more out of the box which can be an issue if you’re concerned about overall luggage weight limits.

Softside luggage is able to conform to the odd shapes of cruise ship cabins, maximizing storage space. But a soft-sided bag won’t offer as much protection against knocks and bumps as a hard one will. The fabric on some softer bags can be damaged more easily than that on harder cases. And it can get ripped or stained.

Duffel Bags

A rolling duffel bag is a great piece of cruise luggage.

We always take a rolling duffel bag on a cruise along with suitcase(s). We have found that having at least one piece of luggage be a wheeled duffel helps make better use of the space under the bed. Because the duffel is typically much narrower, it can easily fit alongside another regular suitcase. Or, in the instances where the cabin attendant has stored stuff under the bed, it can easily share space with that as well.

Duffel bags are roomy and flexible so that you can fit more stuff in there than a regular suitcase. Plus, they offer plenty of organizational options via side sections and exterior pockets.

Key factors to look for in a rolling duffel?

Size: It should be big enough to hold lots of stuff but not so big as to trigger oversize luggage charges. Structure: You want one with some built-in organization with easy-to-access compartments. 

Over the years, our favorite duffels have been the drop bottom duffels with a U-shaped opening and several exterior storage compartments.

A drop-bottom duffel is a great option for cruise packing. The top compartment can be opened up like a traditional duffel, while the bottom suitcase-like opening has its own flexible divider that separates it from what’s inside your other luggage.

Duffel bags are versatile and can be used for both checked and carry-on baggage. They are typically lightweight and affordable. 

Garment Bags

If you plan to participate in formal nights or otherwise dress up for dinner at times, then a rolling garment bag will be a great selection for your cruise luggage. 

A rolling garment bag is designed specifically for hanging clothes, so they won’t get wrinkled during travel like they would be folded up in a suitcase. And if you need to pack extra items, such as shoes or accessories, larger garment bags come with extra compartments for ample storage.

If you get a large one, you should be able to pack all of your family’s dressy clothes in the same bag. The one we use can hold clothes for two formal nights, including accessories.

Carry-on Bags

You’ll want to pack a “carry-on” bag even if you’re not traveling by plane.

Ideally, you will pack a carry-on bag that can do double duty as a cruise bag for embarkation day . That’s a small day bag with some key items that will tide you over as you’re waiting for your luggage to arrive at your cabin. That’s also where you would store valuables and medications. (Check out our other useful embarkation tips! ). 

Look for a bag with several compartments or pockets that will make it easier for you to stay organized. The exterior should feature some type of scratch-resistant material, such as nylon, which keeps marks from appearing when rubbed against other pieces of luggage in transit. Many carry-ons feature wheels for easy transport between the airport and ship docks.

Luggage for Port (A Day Bag)

Assuming you plan to leave the ship and engage in some activities in port, you will need a day bag. If you are traveling with kids, it’s a good idea to have a family day bag. Although different family members may have personal items that they cart around themselves, one primary can house all of your family essentials for your day in port . For instance, items like towels, sunscreen, water, snacks, etc.

 It doesn’t necessarily mean one person carries it around all day; it can be a shared responsibility. But the benefit of having one primary consolidated bag is that it makes it easier to make sure that you have all the key items that you need for the day in one place.

The type of bag doesn’t really matter. It just needs to be big enough to hold everything that you need. If you are going to the beach, a big beach-style tote works nicely. If you have a city day plan, a backpack-style bag may be easier and more efficient. And there are also hybrids between the two styles.

What Size Luggage Should You Bring?

You probably know that cruise cabins have limited space. Whatever luggage you bring with you will need to be capable of being stored in your cabin. So keep the size of your cabin in mind when it comes to choosing the perfect suitcase for cruising.

Ideally, you will be able to nest some pieces of luggage inside others, for instance, if one is smaller in size than another or can be squished into a larger piece because it’s flexible/soft. You can buy luggage sets that have been specifically designed to nest. 

In terms of actually storing your luggage in your cabin, the best luggage for cruise ships are pieces that can be stored in a location where they are not taking up valuable floor space or closet space. So, ideally, it will fit under the bed.

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Recommendations for the Best Cruise Luggage

Hardside suitcases, samsonite centric 2 hardside expandable luggage.

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Samsonite Centric Hardside Expandable Luggage is our top pick for the best suitcases for a cruise. We think that either the Centric or the Centric 2 would make a good choice because the differences between them are extremely minor. (The most significant difference is that the carry-on in the Centric 2 line has a built-in power outlet.)

These suitcases feature a scratch-resistant polycarbonate shell, four multi-directional spinner wheels, and a full-zip interior divider and cross straps to help you stay organized.

Not to mention, it also has generous expansion capability for when you need more space for purchases, souvenirs, or other clothes. And this suitcase comes with cleverly designed side-mounted TSA locks to help deter theft.

These suitcases come in a range of distinctive colors. We chose Caribbean Blue for our personal collection.

Notably, Samsonite Centric hardside luggage sets have been well-reviewed by cruise passengers . Based on our recent personal experience, we agree with the consensus view of our fellow cruise travelers:

• Very lightweight – all of our suitcases were filled without ever triggering airline overcharges.
• Wheels roll exceptionally well, even on the carpet. These suitcases don’t require any significant force to push. My youngest child was able to maneuver it with ease. And I was able to roll two large suitcases with one hand (held back to back) – for an extended trek through the airport.
• These pieces nest together inside the largest suitcase, which fits easily under the cabin bed.

2023 Note : We have now had this particular set for about two years and have used it for both cruise and non-cruise vacations. These pieces have been quite durable. All the wheels and handles still work perfectly, and the outsides have remained free of scratches and dings!

Samsonite Omni PC Hardside Expandable Luggage

This luggage set is quite similar to the Centric and Centric 2 luggage, except that it has a strikingly different visual design and is usually a little cheaper. Like the Centric cases discussed above, the Samsonite Omni is constructed from scratch-resistant polycarbonate material, has four multi-directional spinner wheels, a mesh divider and cross straps, and the same TSA side-mounted locks.

All of the suitcases in this set are also expandable and come with push-button telescopic handles.

This luggage set is also very popular with cruise travelers. It receives dozens of rave reviews from veteran cruisers .

Of particular note, the Omni 2 suitcases receive high marks for being lightweight, their ease of maneuverability, interior organization, and those nifty TSA locks.

Amazon Basics 3-Piece Set Hardside Spinner

The price of the AmazonBasics 3-Piece Set Hardside Luggage may initially give one pause. The cost of the entire set is less than the price for a single suitcase in many luggage lines. But this luggage definitely gets the job done at a value price.

The extra-thick ABS hardshell and scratch-resistant black finish keep your items safe, while the four double spinner wheels provide 360° of smooth-rolling movement in any direction, making it easy to navigate through crowded airports or busy streets.

The sturdy telescoping handle ensures comfortable maneuvering, while the securely mounted short handle provides an easy grab-and-go option when you’re in a hurry. And when you need a little more packing space, the luggage expands by up to 15%.

This economical purchase has simple and limited organization. The most significant drawback is the side with the straps.  Basically, the gaps between the straps are too wide and the straps themselves are too flexible. If you open the suitcase from the wrong side – which is inevitable because there is no easy way to tell which side is up – many of the items will fall out.  Since we always use packing cubes, this hasn’t been a true disaster, but it can get annoying.

We have found that our AmazonBasics luggage has held up very well over time, and it offers great value. This is also a set that’s highly rated by cruise passengers .

The highlights of this luggage set:

• The set nests well. Each piece fits inside of the other.
• The wheel roll smoothly and you can easily transition back and forth between using two and four wheels.

Recommended Rolling Garment Bag

Make packing for your next trip a breeze with this rolling garment bag from Samsonite. This garment bag is perfect for those who want to avoid creases in their clothes, as the hangers can face left and right to double hanging capacity.

The hanger bracket makes it easy to move your clothes straight from the closet to the garment bag and back again.

Shoe pockets and a bottom panel that folds out make efficient use of space.

Plus, the corner mesh pockets maximize packing volume and provide extra storage, and the zippered compartment is perfect for storing damp clothing or items like shoes.

Pockets on the exterior provide extra storage and organization.

Recommended Rolling Duffel Bags

This High Sierra 3-Piece Duffel Set is perfect for your next trip. The in-line style skate wheel makes it easy to maneuver, and the recessed, telescoping lightweight handle system makes it easy to store. With three different sizes to choose from, you can find the perfect bag for your needs. The U-shaped openings make packing and unpacking a breeze, and the inner side compartment keeps your clothes and accessories organized.

The set features a lightweight and durable construction, making it easy to take everything you need with you wherever you go. With multiple grab handles for easy carrying, this set is perfect for cruise travel.

Amazon Basics Ripstop  

The AmazonBasics Ripstop Wheeled Duffel is perfect for anyone who wants to travel in style and comfort. The duffel is made of durable black polyester with grey accents, and the top, sides, and base are made of ripstop fabric for extra strength. It has multiple zippered front and main compartments for easy organizing, and it comes with an upright telescopic handle and in-line wheels for easy mobility.

Cruise travelers love this duffel and give it rave review s. Travelers particularly love the amount of storage space provided and that you can fit two of these bags under a cruise ship bed. Plus, it receives high marks for the superior organization with many convenient compartments. This duffel presents a great choice at a great price.

Frequently Asked Questions

What size luggage is best for a cruise.

The best place to store your luggage in your cruise cabin is under the bed, so you want luggage pieces that will fit there. Typically, if your suitcase is less than 13 inches in height, it should fit. This will accommodate your average large suitcase (28″-30″).

Do cruise ships XRAY your luggage?

Yes. All luggage that comes aboard a cruise ship – whether carry-on or checked – will be scanned. Your carry-on items will be scanned through an x-ray machine similar to what you find at the airport.

Do Cruise Lines search your luggage?

It depends. All luggage will be scanned. If something draws attention, then those individual pieces may be searched by security personnel. Any contraband items discovered will be confiscated (e.g., alcohol, firearms). Depending on the individual cruise line’s policy, some confiscated items may be held by security and returned to you at the conclusion of your cruise.

Closing Thoughts

The best cruise luggage will be lightweight, large enough to hold all of your belongings, and durable enough to sustain being handled by numerous people. Ideally, you should be able to nest the pieces inside one another and fit everything neatly under the bed. Once you have decided on what’s the best cruise luggage for your family, go check out our cruise packing tips !

(This post originally appeared in February 2022, and it has been updated.)

Elaine Warren

Founder & Crew Chief

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Last update on 2024-04-10 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

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Luggage and Baggage Rules for Taking a Cruise (How Much Can I Bring?)

How much luggage can I bring on a cruise? Can I bring shampoo? Can I bring drinks or alcohol? What about food? Will my bags be searched?

If you’re a first-time cruiser, you might have a number of questions about what you can — and can’t — pack for a cruise. The good news? The rules surrounding cruise luggage are far simpler and more straightforward than what you’ll find on a flight .

In fact, you can think of the rules surrounding your luggage as more similar to traveling to a hotel versus traveling on a flight.

Still, if you’re taking a cruise, chances are you’re going to pack a little more than a toothbrush. So you no doubt have a few questions about luggage and baggage on the ship.

We’ve rounded up answers to some of the most common questions…

In This Article...

How much luggage can I bring on a cruise?

The best news about packing is that there is no (reasonable) limit on how much you can bring on a cruise . Most cruise lines “encourage” or “suggest” each passenger to limit luggage to two suitcases, each one less than 50 pounds. In addition, you can also bring carry-on luggage (more on that in a moment).

While there are no strict restrictions on your checked baggage, you should keep a few common sense items in mind.

First, know that you have to get all your luggage to and from the cruise ship. If you are flying, that may mean extra fees for extra bags. And even if you are driving to the cruise terminal, you still have to carry (or arrange for someone else to carry) all that luggage.

We encourage people to pack reasonably. There is no harm in wearing the same thing twice during a cruise — many others will be doing just that. As well, every ship has laundry service if you need it.

If you are taking more than one piece of luggage and one carry-on to take a week-long cruise, then you are likely overpacking.

(Read:  12 Luggage Pieces Perfect For Your Next Cruise )

Are there baggage fees on cruises?

Unlike airlines, there are no baggage fees for the luggage you bring on a cruise. Bring what you want, as there is no extra charge.

That’s good news, but if you are flying to the port, remember that you could be charged by the airline for bags you bring on the plane. That’s another reason it’s smart to pack light if you can.

Are there restrictions on what I can bring?

Of course. You can’t bring weapons such as guns or long knives on board. If it’s even questionable (such as pepper spray), it’s best to just leave it at home. Scissors are also restricted.

More importantly, except for lighters, you can’t bring anything dealing with fire. Fire is the biggest risk on board a ship. For that reason, irons are restricted, as are candles and incense. Flammable liquids are also prohibited. If you think it could start a fire, it’s best to leave it at home.

Cruise lines also have restrictions on alcohol that you can bring on board. Most will let you bring some sort of wine or champagne, but only in small quantities. Beer or hard liquor are almost never allowed. Click here to read more about bringing alcohol on a cruise .

Prohibited items on cruise ships:

• Drugs (including marijuana and CBD, even if legal in the state you are sailing from)
• Explosives or fireworks
• Flammable items
• Beer/liquor
• Heat-producing appliances (curling irons/hair dryers are ok)
• Blades longer than 4″
• Hoverboards

What happens if I bring something that I’m not supposed to?

Accidentally pack something that’s against the rules? Expect it to be removed from your bag when found — that includes alcohol, weapons, or other items.

Depending on the cruise line policy and what you item is, it may be held and returned to you at the end of the cruise or it may just be confiscated. For that reason, we suggest being very careful about what you pack to avoid running afoul of the luggage rules.

If it’s an illegal substance that’s found, you may be getting a visit from law enforcement.

Can I bring a curling iron, hair straightener or a hair dryer?

In the humidity of a cruise, some people’s hair goes wild. We understand.

The good news is that while clothes irons aren’t allowed, you can bring things like a straightener, hair dryer or curling iron. You should definitely be careful, and not forget to unplug them when not in use (in fact, room stewards may do so if they see it left unattended when servicing your room).

As for hair dryers, you can bring one from home, but cruise cabins have these built in, similar to a hotel. They are small, but can get the job done for a few days of vacation. There is no real reason to take up the luggage space, unless you just can’t live without your specific hair dryer.

Can I bring food on a cruise?

If you have special dietary restrictions and want to bring special foods, then it’s best to contact the cruise line to get all the ins and outs of how to bring your food. One nice thing is that cruise lines can meet almost any dietary restriction you might have.

If you’re simply wanting to brings some snacks, then you are welcome to do so . One thing to keep in mind, however, is that a cruise will go to several different countries. That means customs officials worry about things like foreign pests and disease.

For that reason, any food you bring on board needs to be pre-processed, packaged, and unopened . You can’t bring homemade items. You also want to avoid fresh fruit and vegetables.

Does the “3-1-1” liquids rule apply to cruises?

The “3-1-1” rule is ubiquitous in airports. It’s the rule that you can only bring liquids three ounces or less in a one quart plastic bag, with one bag per passenger. The rule is a thorn in the side of many travelers.

For everyone’s sanity, this rule does not apply to cruise ships.  Bring shampoo from home or a bottle of hairspray or a full-sized tube of toothpaste. Just keep in mind that if you have to fly to the port, then you’ll still have to meet the guidelines on liquids for air travel.

Can I bring alcohol in my bags when boarding?

If you want to bring beer or liquor on your cruise, then the bad news is that these aren’t allowed to be brought on ships. If they are found, they will be removed and discarded. (You can buy alcohol in ports of call and bring it home, but it’s held for you until the end of the cruise.)

The good news? Most cruise lines do allow you to bring a bottle or two of wine or champagne .

The amount varies among cruise lines, but it’s usually one bottle (750 mL) per adult in a cabin. When you bring this on, just keep it in your carry-on luggage. You don’t want to put it in checked luggage where it can possibly be broken.

Can I bring non-alcoholic drinks on a cruise?

Yes, but only on some cruise lines. Major lines Carnival and Royal Caribbean have more relaxed rules that allow you to bring small quantities (usually 12 or fewer) drinks on board with you. Norwegian does not allow you to bring aboard drinks.

So if you want to have a Coca-Cola or juice and don’t want to buy it on the ship, then you can bring it with you as you board.

Note that not every cruise line allows this, so you’ll want to see if the specific rules for your line. We have a list of cruise line policies around non-alcoholic drinks here .

What about rules for carry-on luggage for my cruise?

When you arrive at the port, you will check your large luggage (unless you want to carry it all on). This luggage will be carted off, X-rayed, put aboard the ship, and then delivered to your room later that day. That entire process will take several hours.

For that reason, passengers are encouraged to bring some sort of carry-on that has anything you might need for the first few hours on the cruise ship — travel documents, passports, medications, allowed alcohol, toothbrush, your swimsuit, and maybe even a change of clothes for dinner.

This carry-on bag will stay with you and be run through an X-ray machine in the terminal, similar to an airport. You will then keep it with you as you board the ship.

Do I have to check bags over a certain size?

No. There is no rule that you have to check luggage. However, keep in mind that you will have to lug your carry-on items around the ship until your room is ready. If you check in early, that could be a couple of hours. Even a small bag can be a nuisance after that long.

There are some “official” restrictions on carry-on sizes, but we’ve found them to be less strict than with an airline and rarely enforced. As long as you can safely and easily move your bag, it should be ok to board with.

Will my bags be searched on a cruise ship?

All baggage brought on board the ship will be X-rayed. When you go through security you will set your carry-on bags on the x-ray machine like you’d find at an airport. Checked luggage is also X-rayed behind the scenes. Usually further inspection isn’t required unless the security staff finds something dangerous or prohibited.

When will I get my bags after checking them?

When you check your bags at the cruise terminal, they are taken, X-rayed, and then loaded onto the ship.

From there, the cruise line staff delivers your luggage directly to your stateroom the evening of your first night. Usually this will take a few hours.

It’s important that you bring anything you might need for your first night in your carry-on, including what you plan to wear to dinner. While most people will have their bags within a few hours of boarding, it may be until later that you get yours.

Can I bring CBD or marijuana in my luggage?

CBD is now seemingly everywhere, and rules around marijuana have relaxed (including full legalization in a number of states).

That said, these items are not allowed on cruise ships . Cruise lines follow federal law instead of state laws. As well, the items are prohibited in a number of countries, so the cruise line restricts you from bringing CBD or marijuana to comply with rules in any port you might visit.

It’s not a good idea to try and sneak them on either as we’ve seen stories of local law enforcement in some countries detaining passengers for these items.

Where do I put my suitcase in the cabin after I unpack?

There’s no arguing that cruise cabins are small and you might be wondering where to put an empty suitcase so that you aren’t constantly tripping over it. Fortunately cruise cabins do a great job of maximizing space.

There are closets in every cabin that can hold a suitcase or two. You can also store them under the bed so that you don’t have to worry about it taking up valuable space.

Now that you know about the luggage and baggage rules, see our list of 39 useful things to pack for your cruise .

Have a question about packing or luggage for a cruise that we didn’t answer here? Let us know in the comments below…

Popular: 39 Useful Things to Pack (17 You Wouldn't Think Of)

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hello, my wife and I are going on our first cruise after 15 years, can we bring alcohol on the cruise and if so how much? and should we put it in our back pack or secured well in our suit cases. we are going Carnival. thank you

Carnival allows one regular sized bottle of wine or champagne per person.

Check out this article for more details: https://www.cruzely.com/cruise-line-alcohol-policies/

Does norweigian accept wheelchairs

Can you bring a miniature blender on board?

I don’t know where it would be against the rules, but it might get some funny looks.

Is locking your suitcase a bad idea?

I’d suggest not locking it just to keep things simple. If there is something valuable, just bring it as a carry on.

If I wanted to keep my luggage with me and not check it can I do that? I just want my items when I get to my room. Also can I roll it off at the end of the cruise so I do not have to wait for my luggage?

I will be on a Carnival cruise

Absolutely. In fact, that’s what a large portion of people do as they are the first to debark.

Can I bring a skateboard to use when on shore trips?

Do they have free water bottles on the cruise , Will I need to bring them or order them before I get on ship? I will be going on a carnival ship. Size of luggage to bring

Not free, but you can order them. It’s $10 for a 12 pack of water.

Can my carry on be a rolling bag? If my memory serves me right, Carnival didn’t allow rolling bags as carry ons. (It’s been a few years.)

Yes, I do it every cruise!

Hello: can I travel with 2 guitars, a suitcase and a carry on for a transatlantic cruise?

That shouldn’t be a problem.

Are cruise allowed to break security seals on my shampoo etc?

I’m still unsure about the allowed dimensions of the carry on bag. We would each like to carry the traditional size case allowed on flights as cabin luggage which fits in the overhead lockers. Is this ok

Absolutely. There is no real limit on carry-on. You can bring on a full-sized suitcase. Most people just check large bags because it’s much easier than having to carry them onto the ship.

can we check in 2 pieces of luggage and a garment bag? Also, can we bring a handheld steamer for clothes?

Yes, you can bring the luggage and garment bags. Steamers are typically prohibited. There is laundry service on the ship if needed.

I need to take two largish boxed items with me to Florida on Sky Princess from Southampton on 29 Oct 2022. As normal we also have two suitcases. The boxed items weigh 15pounds and 36 pounds respectively. I have phoned Princess and was reassured the bit of boxed extra luggage would be ok. Please reassure me it is!!

If the cruise line says Ok, then that should be plenty of assurance. I see no reason to worry.

What are the limitations on a one way cruise/relocating to a new home? Can you just bring whatever will fit in your room? Musical instruments? Snorkeling equipment? Martial arts gear?

Well there are some reasonable bag limits. If it looks like you’re packing up for a move, then expect the cruise to ask about all the bags.

Is rubbing alcohol allowed on carnival cruise ship

We’d think that if it were sealed and unopened (and a small amount) it should be fine.

Am I allowed t take paracetamol caskets in my cases along with voltrrol and rubbing creams ,I have Rhumatoid Athritis and need extra over the counter meds to add to my prescription meds

Not sure what those are, but OTC medications are fine.

My husband and I both use CPAP machines. We will be driving to embarkation port, doing a cruisetour (land portion after ship) and then flying home. Can we bring the gallon of distilled water on with us? I would not need to take it back on the plane. Thanks!

Yes, that should be fine. Cruise lines make exceptions for the distilled water for this and for baby formula.

Thank you. I will be sure to take it along then.

I have a large framed shirt that someone is taking on a cruise ship toAuckland for me is this allowed ? Thanks Cushla

Should be fine. After all, cruise ships have art sales on the ship.

Can and much water can we bring on the cruise ship???

Depends on the cruise line. Carnival and Royal Caribbean allow 12 bottles. See more here: https://cruzely.com/bringing-water-or-soda-on-the-ship-carnival-royal-caribbean-princess-and-norwegian/

Can we bring pop on a cruise? Sone say yes some say no…. some say carry on some say luggage. We’re travelling on holland cruises

Holland America is a little confusing because we found nowhere that it says you can or can’t bring on soda. Anecdotes on the Internet make it sound like bringing a reasonable amount on board with you is ok.

When it’s time to leave the ship at the end of the cruise what do you do with your larger checked bags? Do you just carry them out with your other belongings?

If you want, you can place them outside the cabin the night before you ship gets home. The crew will take them and they will be brought to the terminal for you. Many people, however, choose to carry them off themselves because passengers carrying all their belongings (and not waiting on luggage) are allowed to debark first.

Hi, any idea if we would be allowed to bring a gallon of soymilk (for our dairy allergic kid to eat with cereal as the ones they stock on ships are always sweetened already) on the boat? Thanks!

Typically you aren’t allowed to bring items that large. However, since it’s for dietary needs, then they will likely say it’s fine. I would call the cruise line and explain the situation. They will point you in the right direction.

where can you place your wine bottles

We suggest bringing those in your carry-on to avoid any breaking and leaking.

I read that on Princess you are allowed 1 750ml bottle of wine per person. What about those small, single-serve 187ml bottles? 750ml is about the volume of a regular bottle. Is the limit for “number” of bottles or the “amount” per person? 750ml is about 4 of those small ones. So, can I bring 4 small ones per person?? Thank you.

That’s a good question. It’s not something we’ve tried before. It will likely depend on the security staff at that particular port. We’ve found many are fairly relaxed on rules; they just want to make sure you aren’t bringing anything dangerous.

This is an odd question, but being an introverted crafter I would like to bring supplies to help me decompress during down times. I was wondering if pliers are acceptable – I make chains similar to rosary chains (no cutting, just bending and twisting; no waste). Is there a length limitation or just not allowed.

Pliers are fine. In fact, knives up to 4 inches are allowed (but we’d suggest leaving those at home).

Pliers that were in his carryon bag were taken away from my husband when we boarded Norwegian Breakaway February 2020 in New Orleans.

Hello I was wondering if it would be acceptable to use a water bottle as a container? My hair conditioner comes in a very large jug so I was thinking about pouring it into a water bottle. But, it seems there could be a few misunderstandings in doing this. Would it be alright?

There’s no rule against the type of container, but as you mention, it would likely be questioned. What about travel bottles? Those that hold a few ounces are perfect for a cruise.

I was wondering if carry on luggage is checked? Like do they just put it through the x-ray machine or just be like “oh it’s carry on, you’re good to go.” Do they x-ray it just like they do with the other checked luggage?

Yes, everything is x-rayed just like at the airport.

Can you take CBS oil tablets on ship

We assume you mean CBD oil? We’d leave it at home. There are a quite a few complications about the legality and it’s not worth the risk.

This will be my first cruise, and I was wondering if you can check a duffle bag as luggage, or am I going to have to treat it as a carry on?

You’re going to have a blast. On a cruise, you don’t have to “check” any luggage. You can if you want so that you don’t have to carry it, but you can also just carry it on yourself. It’s not like a plane where there is only a certain amount of room.

Will items be pulled out of carry on such as vapes and e liquid?

Vaping and e-cigarettes are allowed on ships, but like regular smoking, it’s limited only to certain areas. So there’s no real reason for the security team to pull out the items. That said, they do have the right to inspect anything you’re bringing on the ship.

Are contact solutions allowed

Yes, they are.

Where should I pack the water bottles I’m allowed to bring? They will be unopened and still sealed in their plastic. Also- should I put my cigarettes in my carry on or luggage? I am driving down so I won’t go through airport.

It’s usually best to carry these items on with you if you can. That way they don’t have the potential to bust and soak other people’s bags.

Is the carry-on allowed along with a purse? In other words, they don’t count a woman’s purse to be the carry on?

Carry-on is simply what you bring on with you. You can bring every bag with you if you want to carry it. There are no real limits like there are on airlines. For instance, we always “carry on” a full-size suitcase and backpack.

Can I have my splash, perfumes, lotion and accessories on my carry in bag??

Absolutely.

Am I able to bring a hair dryer, straightener and curling iron

Yes, although hair dryers are already provided in cabins.

What if your luggage is over 50 pounds what will happen to it

On a cruise? Nothing. The baggage rules are pretty lax. However, keep in mind that you will still need to carry it around on your way to the ship, so the lighter, the better!

Are people allowed to bring their scale on a cruise?

Like a bathroom scale? Sure, but keep in mind it might make you sad. There will also likely be scales in the gym if you don’t want to bring one.

Thank you very much!

Hello, was wondering where the best place to store my vape pen when going through cruise security would be. Can I put it through my checked luggage? Travelling with older relative that would disapprove and would rather not have to pull out my vape pen in front of her when going through security. Can i leave it in my bag without taking it out? Flew with an epi-pen and had to take it out of my bag and put it on the tray seperatly. Will that occur? Side note- old enough to smoke, young enough to be publicly chastised by elder. Thank you for you’re help! -Grace

Yep, you can put it in your checked luggage. Smoking is allowed only on certain parts of the ship… but it is allowed. Surprised you had to take it out at all — even in a carry-on. Edit: I see you had to take it out when you flew. Cruise security is more accommodating. If you don’t want to risk it, however, just toss it in the checked baggage.

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How to Pack Carry-on Only for a Cruise: 13 Tips, Hacks & How-tos

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If you’re going on a cruise want to pack carry-on only, you’re not alone. After all, cruising with just a carry-on size luggage has it’s benefits.

If you’re flying to the cruise embarkation port, you may want to avoid airline luggage fees or the worry that the airline will lose your luggage! Plus, simplifying your packing process does reduce the stress of unpacking on boarding day and packing up at the end of your cruise.

I’m not usually a minimalist packer. In fact, I usually overpack! However, I decided to challenge myself to packing carry-on only on a recent 5 day cruise.

I admit, there were some advantages to packing light on a cruise. I may even try packing carry-on only for a 7 day cruise next time.

In this post I share 10 cruise packing tips , tricks & hacks will help you to pack for a cruise with only a carry on bag!

This post contains affiliate links which means if you click and buy that I may make a commission, at no cost to you. Please see my disclosure policy for details.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Tips for Packing Carry-On Only for a Cruise

1. Choose the right carry-on luggage

Pack carry on luggage that is easy to manoeuvre on flights , through the airport and cruise terminal and even public transportation. Be sure it’s durable, the wheels function well and the interior space of the carry on luggage is optimized.

Hard Side Luggage Recommended

I’m a big proponent of hard side luggage for one big reason. A few years ago we cruised with soft sided luggage, and unfortunately it was a rainy embarkation day.

Our luggage must have been left in the rain outside the cruise terminal building. Therefore, when our luggage was delivered to out cabin, it was visibly wet. Not just the outside – some of our clothing was wet and I ruined a pair of my favorite leather sandals.

Since then, we travel with hard side luggage and I’ve never looked back.

Recommended: Level 8 Carry-on Luggage (check price & 1800+ Amazon reviews here)

2. Pack Only Must-Have Items

Packing light for a cruise requires packing only must-have items, and not “just in case” items.

If you’re going on a cruise with checked luggage, you might have the luxury of some just in case items. However. when cruising carry-on only, be intentional about every outfit and travel essential you bring.

3. Plan Your Outfits

Most people pack too much clothes and shoes for a cruise. So, planning your cruise outfits is key to packing carry-on only.

Cruise Line Dress Codes

Consider the duration of the cruise, how many sea days and port days, and evening wear expectations. Most 7 day cruises will have 5 casual or smart casual nights and 2 formal or “dress-up” nights.

Check the Weather

Adapt your clothing packing list to your itinerary and the weather in your destination visits. Don’t forget to check the weather forecast before you go, in case the temperature is unseasonably warmer or cooler than you might expect.

Bring Versatile Pieces

It’s a good idea to bring versatile clothing pieces that can serve multiple purposes, such as sundresses that transition seamlessly from day to night.

Multi-Purpose Items

Opt for items that serve multiple functions. A sarong can double as a beach cover-up or a scarf, while a lightweight jacket can be worn casually during the day and dressed up for the evening.

This way, you get more utility out of each item and still look fabulous on your cruise.

4. Limit Your Shoes

Minimizing the number of shoes you bring is a space-saving strategy. While it can be tempting to pack shoes to match every outfit, it’s best to pare down to three to four pairs that can work with your. Some people may even get away with less.

Your shoe must-haves include comfortable walking or running shoes, a nice casual or dress shoe for evenings, and flip-flops or sandals for the pool, beach or spa.

When it comes to planning which shoes to pack for your vacation , opt for neutral colors that can match multiple outfits.

5. Use Packing Cubes

Using packing cubes when you’re packing carry-on only for a cruise will hep you pack efficiently! Packing or compression cubes allow you to categorize clothing and essentials for easy access during your trip.

In the limited space of carry-on luggage, packing cubes maximize efficiency by compressing items, ensuring you can fit everything you need for the cruise. Additionally, the packing cubes’ compression feature minimizes wrinkles in your tops and dresses.

Plus, when unpacking in your cruise cabin, your packing cubes can be transferred from your suitcase to the drawers. This makes unpacking quick and easy!

Tip: If you’re traveling with your partner or children, consider getting a different color set of packing cubes for all.

Recommended: Packing cubes set (check price & different colors on Amazon here)

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6. Packing Liquids and Toiletries

Toiletries can take up a lot of room in your luggage, but there are a few tips that can help.

Firstly, if you’re flying, you’ll need to follow the 3-1-1 rule.

The 3-1-1 Rule for Air Travel

The 3-1-1 rule refers to the Transportation Security Administration’s (TSA) guidelines for carrying liquids, gels, and aerosols in your carry-on luggage when flying. According to this rule, each passenger is allowed to bring:

• 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less: Each liquid, gel, or aerosol must be in a container of 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or smaller.
• 1 quart-sized, clear, resealable plastic bag: All your liquids must fit into a single quart-sized plastic bag, and the bag should be transparent and resealable.
• 1 bag per passenger: Each traveler is limited to one quart-sized bag of liquids.

However, if you’re driving to the port, taking the train or any other means of transportation, you’ll have more flexibility as this rule only applies to flying.

Related: 17 Cruise Embarkation Day Carry-on and Luggage Guidelines

Travel Sized Toiletries

Avoid packing full sized toiletries, if you’re cruising with just a carry on bag. Instead, bring your favorite shampoo, conditioner, soap, lotions and other items decanted into leak-proof travel sized containers (sold on amazon) .

Alternatively, a good travel hack is buying travel-sized items at the dollar store . You can even pick up travel sized sunscreen and lip balm.

Solid Toiletries

Solid shampoo bars, toothpaste tablets, and multi-use skincare products are convenient alternatives to traditional toiletries that take up more space.

7. Carry-on Luggage Packing Tips

Packing in a carry-on bag, whether using packing cubes or not, requires a strategic approach to maximize space and keep your belongings organized.

Here’s a step-by-step guide for packing your carry on luggage both with and without packing cubes.

Without Packing Cubes:

• Roll or Fold Clothes: Choose a method that works best for you—rolling clothes saves space and can minimizes wrinkles in clothing, while folding is good for items that need to maintain a flatter look (ie. pants and nice shorts).
• Layering Technique: Place heavier and bulkier items at the bottom of the suitcase. This provides a stable base and prevents wrinkles in more delicate clothing.
• Use Empty Spaces: Fill any gaps or hollow areas in your luggage with smaller items like socks, underwear, or accessories. I like to put socks and other small items in shoes and inside evening bags. Utilize the corners and edges efficiently.
• Toiletries Bag: Pack your toiletries in a clear, resealable bag. Make sure to comply with airport regulations (3-1-1 rule). Ensure that any liquids are stored in leak-proof containers.
• Shoes at the Bottom: Place bulkier shoes at the bottom of the bag, near the wheels. Stuff them with socks or small items to optimize space and keep their shape.
• Foldable Items on Top: If you have foldable items like jackets or sweaters, place them on top to prevent creases in more delicate clothing.
• Essentials in a Separate Bag: Keep essential items like medications, travel documents, and electronics in a small, easily accessible bag. These items are best kept in your personal bag.

With Packing Cubes

• Categorize Items: Sort your clothes by category. This could be tops, bottoms, swimsuits underwear and socks, etc. Alternatively, you could pack daywear in one packing cube, and evening wear in another.
• Roll or Fold in Cubes: Use packing cubes for each category. Roll or fold your clothes within the cubes to keep them organized.
• Compression Cubes for Bulky Items: If you have bulkier items, consider using compression packing cubes or vacuum bags to save space.
• Toiletries in a Cube: Place your toiletries in a separate cube or a clear toiletries bag to contain any spills.
• Utilize Different Cube Sizes: Choose cubes of different sizes for various items. Smaller cubes work well for socks and swimsuits, while medium and larger ones are best for clothing.
• Easy Access: Keep frequently used items in cubes that are easily accessible. If you are staying in a hotel overnight before your cruise, consider packing a cube with your clothing and essentials for your pre-cruise stay.
• Utilize Empty Spaces: Fill any gaps in the suitcase with smaller cubes or loose items. This includes placing small items in shoes and handbags.

Tip: Make sure to pack a carry-on bag for embarkation day .

8. Packing Cruise Essentials

Just because you’re packing light, doesn’t mean that you should leave your cruise cabin essentials and travel accessories at home. However, it is important to evaluate what you really need.

Here are a few recommendations (all from Amazon):

• Over the counter seasickness medication (ie. Bonine )
• Non-surge protected power cube (with USB-C & USB-A)
• Magnet hooks
• Magnet clips
• Hanging toiletry bag
• Towel bands (less bulky than towel clips)
• Reef friendly sunscreen – travel size
• First aid kit with basics like Band-Aids, pain relievers, and any personal medications
• Passport wallet
• Pop-up Hamper
• Mesh beach bag
• Refillable water bottle

9. Wear Your Bulkiest Items on the Plane

Wear your bulkiest items, such as jackets or heavy shoes, on the flight. This tip really helps if you’re packing for an Alaskan cruise , where you’ll probably be packing bulky outerwear.

This frees up space in your carry-on. Plus, you can roll up your jacket or sweater and use it as a pillow on your flight.

Related: 37 Long Flight Essentials to Pack in Your Carry-on

10. Personal Bag Essentials

In addition to your carry on luggage, pack a personal bag with important items including your passport, wallet, sunglasses, medication , and earbuds, electronics, gum and snacks.

It’s a good idea to bring a crossbody or belt bag, that you can also use while on your cruise.

11. Plan for Laundry

If you’re trying to pack light for a longer cruise , plan to use the cruise ship laundry services or facilities. This way, you can do a small load midway through your trip. Many cruise lines also have laundry bag specials that you can take advantage of.

This allows you to pack fewer cruise outfits and ensures you have clean clothes throughout your cruise vacation.

12. Space Saving Packing Hacks

These items are space-saving travel essentials !

Magnetic Hat Clip

This magnetic hat clip is genius! Rather than packing your sunhat in your suitcase and risk squishing it, use a hat clip to hang it on your personal bag or carry on!

Hanging Toiletry Bag

Make the most of limited bathroom space on a cruise by using a hanging toiletry bag . It not only keeps your essentials organized but also saves counter space. The convenience of having your toiletries easily accessible makes your daily routine smoother.

Ziploc Bags

Resealable bags serve multiple purposes and can be a valuable addition to your travel essentials. Plus, they are so cheap and versatile, and you can bring them from home .

During a cruise, you may end up with wet swimwear or dirty clothes. Having Ziploc bags allows you to separate these items from the rest of your luggage, which prevents any unpleasant odors from affecting your clean clothes.

Ziploc bags are also handy for storing snacks you might pick up at the lido buffet. In a pinch, Ziploc bags can be even be used for compressing clothes.

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• 40 Interesting Cruise Ship Facts that Will Surprise You

Final Thoughts on Packing Carry-on Only for a Cruise

It can be hard to pack light for a cruise. As cruise passengers, we’re planning our cruise outfits and more! However, with a few packing organization hacks and tips and strategies, packing carry on only can be done!

Have you cruised with only carry-on luggage or do you want to? Please share your tips and questions in the comments below.

Happy Cruising!

If you found this article helpful, please pass it along. Please feel free to share on Facebook or PIN to your favorite Pinterest board (share buttons at the top). Thanks so much!

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Last updated on December 30th, 2023 at 08:31 am

The Best Luggage for a Cruise: 10 Finest Bags for Vacation in 2022

When embarking on a cruise, the type of luggage you bring can make or break your trip. With all the different activities and ports of call, you’ll want to be sure that your belongings are easy to transport and won’t take up too much space.

You don’t want to be carrying a lot of heavy suitcases around the ship, especially if you’re going to be doing a lot of walking. Here is a guide to the best luggage for a cruise.

Table of Contents

Quick Recommendations: The Best Luggage for a Cruise

Samsonite Solyte DLX Softside – Overall Best Luggage for a Cruise

Travelpro Crew Versapack Softside – Best Carry-On Luggage for Cruise Travel

DELSEY Paris Helium Aero – Best Hardside Luggage for a Cruise Trip

SwissGear Sion – Best Softside Luggage for Tour

Amazon Basics Hardside – Best Spinner Suitcase for a Cruise

Coolife Expandable Suitcase – Best Lightweight Luggage for Tour

Wrangler El Dorado – Best Luggage Set for a Cruise

Travel Select Amsterdam – Best Expandable Luggage for Travel

Rockland Softside – Best Fashion Luggage Set for Tour

TPRC Smart Bag – Best Under-Seat Luggage for a Cruise

10 Best Luggage for a Cruise

Cruises are a great way to see the world, and with the right luggage, they can be easy and fun as well. Here are 10 of the best pieces of luggage for cruises, based on our research and customer feedback.

Samsonite Solyte DLX Softside (Overall Best Luggage for a Cruise)

Size: 25.25 x 18 x 9.5 inches

Weight: 8.9 pounds

Key Features: Expandable up to 75-inch; smart sleeve system; roomy external pockets

Take your travel experience to the next level with Samsonite’s Solyte DLX Softside luggage. Made of tough polyester weave, this bag is designed for the modern traveler . The SmartSleeve system of this bag allows you to attach it to another piece of luggage for hands-free convenience. And when you’re not on the go, the sleek design will make you stand out from the rest.

This 75-inch expandable softside luggage is extra-spacious, with plenty of exterior pockets for easy access to your belongings. The built-in organization keeps everything neatly arranged, with a mesh pocket and WetPak pocket to store wet items or clothes.

The luggage comes with a compression system that helps you pack more clothes into your bag. While the smart fix buckles keep your luggage securely closed and the privacy ID tag keeps your personal information safe.

Featuring multi-directional double spinner wheels, Samsonite’s Solyte DLX can be easily maneuvered in tight spaces. The push-button handle makes it easy to drag, and the 10-year limited warranty ensures that your bag will last for many trips to come. This bag is available in three colors and is ideal for extended trips.

Travelpro Crew Versapack Softside (Best Carry-On Luggage for Cruise Travel)

Size: 21 x 14.75 x 10 inches

Weight: 8 pounds

Key Features: Expandable up to 2 inches; many organizer pockets; laptop sleeve

The Travelpro Crew Versapack is a piece of wonderful luggage for a hassle-free cruise trip. It is made of high-density nylon with a coating that makes it water and abrasion-resistant. The precision glide system ensures smooth rolling, while the self-aligning magnetic wheels make it easy to maneuver. The contoured grip and handle provide a comfortable hold, even when the luggage is fully loaded.

The Travelpro bag is built with corner armor and skid guards to protect your belongings and comes with a padded laptop pocket for extra security. With an expandable depth of up to 2 inches, the Travelpro Crew Versapack can accommodate last-minute packing.

This versatile piece of luggage can be used as a carry-on or checked bag and comes with a built-in USB port to power your electronic devices. The power bank pocket can hold an external battery to keep your devices charged the whole trip. The Zip-in garment organizer keeps your clothes wrinkle-free .

The Travelpro Crew is a soft-sided suitcase that comes with packing cubes, a toiletries bag, and supra zipper heads for security. The luggage is available in six colors and has a stylish look that will make you stand out on the cruise.

DELSEY Paris Helium Aero (Best Hardside Luggage for a Cruise Trip)

Size: 19.5 x 12.5 x 29 inches

Weight: 12.5 pounds

Key Features: Expandable up to 2 inches; two large sections; multiple pockets

The DELSEY Paris Helium Aero is another great piece of luggage for your next cruise trip. It’s made of durable polycarbonate and is lightweight, making it easy to carry. The anti-crack shell ensures your belongings are safe and sound while you’re on vacation. With its spinner wheels, the DELSEY Paris Helium Aero is easy to maneuver, even in tight spaces.

This large suitcase features two spacious sections and web straps to keep your items in place. The luggage expands up to 2 inches, giving you extra space when you need it. You’ll love the multiple pockets, which make it easy to organize your belongings.

The luggage also comes with a TSA-approved combination lock and offers top and side carry options. With its stylish design and multiple color options, it will be easy to find the perfect piece to match your personality.

 The DELSEY Paris Helium Aero comes with a 10-year limited warranty, so you can rest assured that your luggage is protected against any damage.

SwissGear Sion (Best Softside Luggage for Tour)

Size: 24.5 x 15.25 x 11 inches

Weight: 9.5 pounds

Key Features: Spacious space; top and side carry option; different pockets

The SwissGear Sion is one of the best luggage options for a cruise. It features a stylish design and is made of scuff-resistant fabric, ensuring that it will look great for years to come. This sofside bag is also functional having a spacious capacity that will accommodate all of your baggage.

With a fully-lined roomy interior, multiple external pockets, and adjustable straps , you’ll have plenty of packing space for all your needs. The luggage features a zippered wet bag that is perfect for storing clothes or other items that need to be kept dry. It also has a mesh lid pocket that is great for holding small items.

The SwissGear Sion suitcase comes with a retractable handle and spinner wheels that allow you to maneuver without any difficulty. The top and side carry handles make it easy to grab and go, while the seven colors option will ensure you find the ideal one for you.

Amazon Basics Hardside (Best Spinner Suitcase for a Cruise)

Size: 16.73 x 10.63 x 23.62 inches

Weight: 8.08 pounds

Key Features: Internal divider and organizer; practical pockets; expandable space

The AmazonBasics Hardside is just the right luggage for your next cruise or any other travel occasion. The suitcase has been built with a scratch-resistant hard shell that defies wear and tear and prevents your belongings from shifting in transit. It comes with smooth-rolling spinner wheels for hassle-free maneuverability.

This durable and classy luggage features an interior divider and an organizer to help you stay tidy, and offers an expandable space of up to 15 percent that gives you a little extra room when you need it.

You’ll love the three zippered pockets for all of your belongings. The sturdy telescoping handle will make it easy for you to get around. When you’re not using it, the short handle will make it convenient to store. It’s available in four colors, so you can choose the one according to your liking.

Amazon Basics Hardside luggage has huge global ratings with more than 90 percent of customers giving it positive feedback.

Coolife Expandable Suitcase (Best Lightweight Luggage for Tour)

Size: 15.4 x 8.7x 22.4 inches

Weight: 6.7 pounds

Key Features: Fully-lined interior; different handy pockets; top and side carry

The Coolife Expandable Suitcase is flawless luggage for a cruise or any other type of extended travel. Made of a sturdy plastic shell, it is lightweight and durable as well.

The luggage features a fully-lined interior that helps keep your belongings protected, while the multiple organizational pockets make it easy to keep track of everything. It has an expandable main section that provides extra room when needed, while the stylish look ensures you’ll arrive in style.

The Coolife luggage comes with a TSA lock facility to keep your baggage protected. The spinner wheels make it easy to maneuver through any crowded area and the suitcase’s telescoping handle is adjustable to different heights.

This reliable and affordable luggage is complete with top and side carry handles for easy transport and is available in five fun colors. Coolife offers a unique warranty program that covers you for 2 years.

Wrangler El Dorado (Best Luggage Set for a Cruise)

Size: 20 x 13. 5 x 11 inches

Weight: 6.3 pounds

Key Features: Expandable capacity; accessory pockets; USB port

If you’re looking for the best luggage set for your next cruise, look no further than the Wrangler El Dorado. This set comes with a suitcase and a 14-inch polyester tote with a slide-on strap, making it the perfect choice for any traveler. The suitcase is built with durability in mind, with a tough ABS hard-shell construction that will protect your belongings from damage. And, the sleek design is sure to turn heads wherever you go.

This piece of luggage is designed to provide you with ample storage space and a variety of organizational features. The fully-lined interior ensures your items remain protected, while the expandable capacity allows you to bring along everything you need for your trip. The suitcase comes with accessory pockets that make it easy to keep track of smaller items.

The luggage features a USB port, allowing you to charge your devices with ease, and a dedicated holder that provides a well-suited place to keep your phone. The Wrangler El Dorado also includes a built-in cup holder, making it easy to stay hydrated while traveling.

The luggage has double spinner wheels that provide effortless mobility and keep you moving in the right direction. Plus, it comes in three colors that offer you plenty of style options.

Travel Select Amsterdam (Best Expandable Luggage for Travel)

Size: 21 x 13 x 7.5 inches

Weight: 6.29 pounds

Key Features: Expandable storage; top and side carry; lots of pockets

The Travel Select Amsterdam is one of the best expandable luggage for a cruise. It is made of superior, two-tone polyester and features an expandable design that increases the packing capacity by up to 25 percent. The suitcase’s interior elastic tie straps keep your clothing and other items neatly packed, while the four skate wheels provide easy movement.

This lightweight and durable luggage is designed with a multitude of exterior pockets, including two shoe pockets, to help you organize and pack your shoes. The spacious zippered lid pocket provides added storage and easy access to your essentials.

It comes with a retractable handle system that makes it convenient to pull your luggage and offers top and side carry handles, making it easy to grab and go. The bag clutch feature provides you with an option to attach it to another luggage and the ID window on the back panel keeps your identification safe and accessible.

The Travel Select Amsterdam suitcase is available in five colors and has a stylish look.

Rockland Softside (Best Fashion Luggage Set for Tour)

Size: 20 x 13 x 7.5 inches

Weight: 6.64 pounds

Key Features: Expandable space; top and side carry; many organizational pockets

Looking for a luggage set that will make your cruise travel a breeze? Consider the trendy Rockland’s softside luggage collection. Made of heavy-duty polyester, these pieces are designed to withstand the rigors of travel. Plus, they’re expandable, so you can pack everything you need for your trip.

The suitcase features a roomy main compartment that can be expanded to an extra 10-inch of depth, allowing for more packing space. It has three organizational pouches and back zippered pockets for storage. The front pockets are great for holding small items like sunglasses, a passport, and tickets.

The softside suitcase is designed with top and side carry handles for easy transport, as well as a retractable handle and skate wheels for effortless maneuverability.

The Rockland luggage set includes a tote bag with an adjustable shoulder strap that makes it easy to carry. It features a spacious main section that can hold plenty of clothes and other belongings. And because it’s soft-sided, it can be easily packed in tight spaces. Plus, the fun, stylish print will make you stand out from the crowd.

TPRC Smart Bag (Best Under-Seat Luggage for a Cruise)

Size: 14 x 8.5 x 15 inches

Weight: 5 pounds

Key Features: Fully-lined interior; many pockets; USB port

The TPRC Smart Bag is the perfect piece of luggage to take on a cruise. This convenient bag fits comfortably under your seat and is fully lined to protect your belongings. Made of durable 1680D polyester, the Smart Bag is built to last.

The luggage features an open side pocket for trouble-free access to your bathing suit or other essentials, as well as two accessory pockets for storing smaller items. The USB port allows you to charge your devices up and about.

The Smart Bag is made for easy travel, with smooth-rolling skate wheels, a telescopic trolley handle, and an add-a-bag rear strap. The bag is also lightweight and comes in three fun colors. Pack everything you need for your trip in this handy piece of luggage.

Comparison Table

Also Read: Best Luggage for Flight Attendants

When going on a ship, it’s important to bring a good luggage set. Not only will you need something to store all your things, but you’ll also want something that will be easy to carry around. After doing extensive research, we believe that the Samsonite Solyte DLX Softside is the best luggage for a cruise.

With its spacious interior, sturdy construction, and an array of pockets and compartments, this luggage is sure to make your cruise trip a breeze.

What Type of Luggage do You Need For a Cruise?

When packing for a cruise, it’s important to bring the right type of luggage. You don’t want to end up having to check your luggage in at the port, as this can add significant time and stress to your vacation. Here are four types of luggage that are perfect for cruises.

Rolling Luggage:

Rolling luggage is the best type of luggage to bring on a cruise. It’s easy to maneuver, and you can easily roll it through the port and onto the ship.

Duffel Bags:

Duffel bags are also a good option for cruising. They’re versatile and can be used for both packing and storing your belongings on the ship.

Backpacks are great for carrying around your essentials while you’re onshore. Just make sure you have a decent-sized one that can fit everything you need.

If you want to bring a suitcase, make sure it’s a soft-sided one that can be easily packed in your cabin’s closet or under the bed.

What Are the Benefits of Using the Right Luggage For a Cruise?

You’ll Have More Room to Store Things

One of the biggest benefits of using the right luggage for a cruise is that you’ll have more room to store things. When you’re on a cruise, there are a lot of things that you’ll want to bring with you, such as sunscreen, swimsuits, hats, and sunglasses. But if you have enough room to store these things in your luggage, you won’t have to worry about packing them in your carry-on bag or taking up space in your hotel room.

Your Luggage Will Be More Durable

Another benefit of using the right luggage for a cruise is that your luggage will be more durable. When you’re on a cruise, there are a lot of activities that can damage your luggage, such as getting wet, being in the sun, and being dragged across the deck. But if you have luggage that is specifically designed for cruises, it will be able to withstand these types of activities much better.

You Won’t Lose Your Luggage

Finally, another benefit of using the right luggage for a cruise is that you won’t lose your luggage. When you’re on a cruise, there are a lot of people and a lot of places to lose your luggage. But if you have a good piece of luggage, you’ll be able to keep track of it better and you’ll be less likely to lose it.

Best Luggage for a Cruise: FAQs

What is the best size luggage for a cruise.

When planning a cruise, one of the most important things to consider is what size luggage to bring. You want to make sure you have enough space for all of your essentials, but you also don’t want to bring too much and have to pay extra fees. The best size luggage for a cruise is typically a medium-sized suitcase. However, it’s always a good idea to check with your cruise line before you book to see what their luggage guidelines are.

Do they check your luggage on a cruise?

Yes, they do check your luggage on a cruise. In fact, they check it quite thoroughly. They will go through every item in your bag and make sure that it is safe and compliant with the cruise line’s rules and regulations. They may even open up your suitcase and rummage through your clothes if they suspect that you are hiding something.

Can you carry your own luggage on a cruise ship?

Many cruise lines allow passengers to carry their own luggage on board the ship. However, there are some restrictions that you should be aware of before you pack your bags. First, make sure that your luggage is not too big or too heavy. Most cruise lines have size and weight restrictions for luggage, so be sure to check the requirements of your particular cruise line before you pack. Second, keep in mind that you will need to be able to lift and carry your own luggage. If you are traveling with young children or have mobility concerns, you may want to consider having someone else carry your luggage for you. Lastly, keep in mind that you will need to carry your luggage up and down stairs. If you are traveling with a lot of luggage, you may want to consider using a luggage cart.

Can I lock my luggage for a cruise?

Most major cruise lines allow you to lock your luggage, but there are a few things you should keep in mind before you do. First, be sure to use a TSA-approved lock , as this will allow security to open your luggage if they need to. Secondly, keep in mind that while your luggage will be safe from prying eyes, it will still be subject to the elements. So if you’re planning on taking any valuables with you on your cruise, it’s best to keep them in your carry-on bag.

What should you not pack on a cruise?

There are a few things you should avoid packing on a cruise. First, anything that is illegal in the country you are visiting. This includes drugs, weapons, and certain types of food. Second, anything that is perishable or could easily spoil. This includes food, beverages, and cigarettes. Finally, anything that is flammable or could be dangerous if it caught fire. This includes, such as cleaning supplies, matches, and lighters.

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• Luggage + Bags

A Professional Packer Shares the 11 Best Carry-on Bags That Actually Fit a Week's Worth of Clothes — From $30

Never check a bag again.

We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more .

Travel + Leisure / Tyler Roeland

There are some travelers who are completely at ease with bringing just two or three outfits on a trip to skip checking a bag . I am not one of them. I like to pack as many options as my carry-on luggage will allow. While this may initially seem to contradict my title as a professional packer — I’m the founder of the Just Packed travel site and corresponding newsletter — the two aren’t necessarily mutually exclusive. Instead, I define an expertly packed carry-on bag as one that contains everything that you may need on your trip (and still has the ability to close).

Before the actual packing process can begin, though, it’s critical to have luggage pieces that offer ample room to ensure its spot in the overhead bin or under the airplane seat in front of you. But, not every travel bag is up for the task. Over my years of research, both on the ground and in the air, these are the 11 roomiest carry-on bags that I've found. They include classic suitcases as well as travel totes, backpacks, and duffels that help you pack a week's worth (and even more) of clothes so you'll have everything that you need for your next trip.

Away Bigger Carry-on

In my line of work, I’m constantly testing different suitcase brands and styles. My 22-inch Away Bigger Carry-on has yet to be topped when it comes to how much it can hold. From the outside, it looks like a basic, albeit sleek , suitcase; there are no bells and whistles. That simplicity, however, is the key to its success. Every inch of the suitcase serves to get the job done (a.k.a. hold as much as possible). By using the interior compression system, I can fit about one week’s worth of clothes without trying too hard — but if I use a few of my tried-and-true packing hacks , I can make it work for a two-week trip.

It's also made with a polycarbonate hardshell, a sturdy material that I always look for when suitcase shopping because of its durability. Trust me, you'll appreciate it when your carry-on gets tossed around during takeoff and landing.

July Carry-on Pro

I might be loyal to my Away suitcase, but the 21-inch July Carry-on Pro recently caught my eye. It has a similar design, but it comes with a few more functional features. The front pocket can fit a 15-inch laptop and an iPad (although I tend to use compartments like this to hold a few items of clothing), and the Y-strap compression system helps keep the contents of the suitcase neatly packed down. I haven’t gotten a test to take mine out for a spin yet, but the luggage brand notes that it can hold six to eight outfits, or between five to seven days’ worth of clothing. 

Amazon Basics 20-inch Hardside Spinner

If you’re looking for a more affordable carry-on suitcase, the highly-rated Amazon Basics 20-inch Hardside Spinner might do the trick. Coming in at under $65 thanks to a limited-time deal, this best-selling carry-on is the perfect choice for anyone who wants a capacious bag but doesn’t travel enough to warrant one with a higher price tag. Several reviewers noted that it’s great for week-long trips with its expansion feature that adds 15 percent more packing space, the interior organizer, and the three smaller zippered pockets. 

MZ Wallace Deluxe Large Metro Tote

Overpackers who are actively trying to avoid bringing checked bags on their travels need the MZ Wallace Deluxe Large Metro Tote in their luggage repertoire. Not only is it, hands down, the most spacious tote that I’ve ever used, but it’s also pliable and filled with different pockets and compartments to keep everything organized in a designated spot. I think of it like a Mary Poppins-style bag. On a recent weekend trip, it served as my only piece of luggage, and I had no issue zipping it up while it held my pajamas, two outfits, a pair of sneakers, my laptop, a small toiletry bag, and a collection of other miscellaneous items (chargers, snacks, a hairbrush, etc). But when you're flying, use this as your personal bag along with your carry-on suitcase so you can get away with bringing more clothes on board. 

When buying a new travel tote to use as a carry-on, I always recommend paying close attention to how the bag is designed (and how it will keep your belongings secure). Does it zip, tie, or latch everything inside? The exact closure method, and how it’s implemented, can significantly affect how much can be carried inside. This one has a zip-top design, so I know that it will keep everything safe from spilling out if I put it in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of me.

L.L. Bean Medium Boat and Tote Zip-Top

The classic L.L. Bean Boat and Tote comes in a variety of sizes and colors, and there’s even the option to choose one with or without a zip-top closure. The extra-large tote is technically the largest, but I personally use the medium-sized zip-top version. Inside, I’ll fit my toiletry bag (which tends to take up too much space in my suitcase), laptop, chargers, a water bottle, and a smaller crossbody bag. I’ve also never had any issues fitting it under the seat in front of me on a plane, and it’s sturdy enough to stay upright during take-off or turbulence. 

Oeihuivt Weekender Bag

The Oeihuivt Weekender Bag is the more affordable twin of the steeper-priced duffel bag that I usually use. According to the brand, the bag can hold between two and four days' worth of essentials inside its six pockets, main compartment, and roomy shoe pouch. If I’m traveling with just a pair of shoes on my feet, I’ll often use the shoe pouch as a hack to store more clothes; it makes the perfect spot for my socks, Dopp kit, a sweatshirt, and a pair of jeans. 

Paravel Foldable Travel Duffel Bag

I always think of my Foldable Travel Duffel Bag from Oprah-loved brand Paravel as my “in case of packing emergencies” bag. On a trip to Jackson Hole last year, I knew that there was a possibility that I’d be leaving with a few more items than I’d arrived with — so I tucked this duffel into my suitcase to use on the journey home. It’s one of those bags that’s deceptively roomy, and it held the hiking boots, sneakers, puffer vest, and several sweaters that had been displaced from my suitcase by my new Wyoming purchases. In addition to being an M.V.P. for bringing back souvenirs, it can also be used as a tote when you're at your destination, and even a beach bag if needed. 

Bjlfs Weekender Carry-on

Some trips require a do-it-all kind of bag, one that can handle whatever you need it to hold. Enter the Bjlfs Weekender Carry-on. Its exact dimensions have it measuring in at around 10.7 inches by 22 inches by 7 inches, which means that it has more than enough room for a three-day weekend trip's wardrobe — and you’ll have no trouble fitting it in most overhead bins or under the seat in front of you should you use it as a personal bag. Interested in seeing how it would perform on a longer trip? According to one reviewer , they paired it with a small carry-on suitcase for an 11-day trip, and it was perfect.

Cuyana Classic Easy Zipper Tote

My vast collection of travel bags waxes and wanes on a regular basis, but there are a few extra-roomy styles that maintain their starting positions on my roster. One of those is my Cuyana Classic Easy Zipper Tote. The leather bag is a staple for work travel, and it holds more than you’d think upon initial glance. If you pair it with a carry-on for your next flight, you'll definitely be able to fit everything that you need for your trip. 

A foolproof way to wisely choose a spacious carry-on bag is to identify its purpose. As one of my allowed carry-on bags, this roomy tote is always reserved for my laptop, which means that it has to be strong and wide enough to hold my heavy, 16-inch MacBook Pro and my other essentials. I’ve gone on several trips where it’s managed to perfectly carry my laptop, a couple of books, an extra layer, a water bottle, and even a Dopp kit or crossbody bag.

Roam Continental Backpack

When I say that the Roam Continental Backpack holds just as much as a duffel bag, I mean it. It first accompanied me on a trip to Venice, and I was immediately blown away by the capacity of each compartment. There’s an exterior laptop compartment, which holds all of my chargers, a front pocket (and is great for snacks and smaller toiletries), and a large main compartment. The latter fit a pair of shoes, the rest of my toiletries, a light jacket, and a small purse. There are also two water bottle holders on the backpack’s sides; I used one for my Yeti and the other for a couple pairs of socks. 

Lo & Sons Large Rowledge Backpack

Lo & Sons

I’ve found that the Lo & Sons Large Rowledge Backpack is slightly less bulky than the above Roam style, but somehow, it’s almost just as spacious. If I’m using it as a secondary carry-on bag, the backpack always has extra room; if I’m bringing it on a short weekend trip, I typically don’t need to bring another bag. By using the rolling folding method, I can fit three to four outfits in the larger compartment, and the front compartment is perfect for a travel-sized toiletry bag and other essential accessories. 

Bagsmart Hanging Toiletry Bag

This isn't a piece of luggage, but it's an essential item for making everything fit in a carry-on. There are a few things that I’ll sacrifice when packing — like extra pairs of shoes or an additional coat — but my beauty routine is not one of them. I’m a stickler for using my specific skin and hair care products, even while traveling, so I require a toiletry bag that can hold everything. The large Bagsmart Hanging Toiletry Bag can carry all of my skincare, shampoo and conditioner, makeup, and other hygiene products. If it’s packed in my carry-on, I just have to make sure to use my TSA-sized products or transfer my liquids to my trusty Cadence capsules .

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• People Tested

The Best Carry-On Luggage of 2024 for Your Next Trip

Travel light with picks you'll use for years

Cai Cramer is a shopping writer at PEOPLE.com with 2 years’ experience in journalism and digital media. She regularly tests the best and buzziest products in the beauty and lifestyle spaces and has researched and written about moisturizers, blow dryers, clothing, and luggage, among many other popular products.

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Why Trust PEOPLE?

What is people tested.

People / Jhett Thompson

What's one staple every traveler needs? A good piece of carry-on luggage. Whether you're going away on a short trip or don't want to deal with the hassle of checking a bag, a piece of quality carry-on luggage is indispensable. Any seasoned traveler will tell you that easy-gliding wheels are crucial for an efficient travel day, and many of the newest suitcase models come with handy details like combination locks and USB-enabled charging capabilities.

With so many different types of luggage (and each touting its own special features), it can be hard to know what to pick — that's why we turned to travel specialist Rebecca Mazzaro for her expert opinion. "I do like a hardside carry-on to protect my items," Mazzaro tells PEOPLE. "But a soft carry-on can be molded a bit more to the space."

To find the best options, we tested 18 pieces of carry-on luggage to see which ones earned top marks on things like organization, size and weight, maneuverability on different surfaces, and durability. (It was a fun day in the PEOPLE Tested lab for the testers who got to push suitcases off a six-foot ladder and swing a baseball bat at them!)

Read on to discover our picks for the best carry-on luggage that PEOPLE tested.

Best Overall

Samsonite freeform carry-on spinner.

The full-rotational, 360-degree spinning wheels glide smoothly over every surface.

The lightweight, sturdy hard-shell design was easy for us to lift to the height of an overhead bin.

This suitcase comes with only a few internal organization pockets.

When you're rushing through the airport to make a flight, you need a bag that's dependable, easy to maneuver , and tough enough to handle every knock and bump, and the Samsonite Freeform Hardside Expandable Carry-On is exactly that. Equipped with four full-rotational, 360-degree spinning wheels, this luggage aced our tests. We were blown away with this bag's easy glide, whether using all four wheels or tilting on two.

This bag is made from a lightweight yet sturdy hard shell and comes in a variety of unique colors that will help your suitcase stand out from the rest on the checked luggage conveyor belt. Because this bag is compliant with most carry-on size restrictions, you can skip the frantic rush and stressful wait at baggage claim altogether. This luggage has a built-in TSA-compatible combination lock to ensure that you arrive at your destination with all of your belongings intact.

Some good news for all the over-packers out there: This expandable bag is notably spacious, with a simple but roomy interior that includes two interior sections, a cross ribbon divider, and a small zip-up pocket that could easily fit delicates. We would prefer the bag to include an extra pocket to stash your shoes, but despite that small qualm, we would still recommend this bag to family and friends.

Dimensions : 21.25 x 15.25 x 10.0 inches | Weight: 6.5 lbs. | Charging-Enabled: No

People / Tamara Staples

Best Overall, Runner Up

Travelpro platinum elite carry-on spinner.

The sleek hard shell was tough enough to power through our drop tests and easy to wipe down.

This suitcase comes with a TSA-approved combination lock to keep items safe.

Two zippered clamshell pockets help us feel confident that our items won't slide around inside.

It has charging capabilities but doesn't come with a power bank.

This carry-on luggage from Travelpro lives up to the brand's name: It can make even the novice traveler feel like an expert. The sleek and stylish hard-shell exterior is resilient and easy to clean, made from flexible 100 percent polycarbonate to resist dents and cracks. An external USB charging port means no more scrambling through the airport with a dead device, and a TSA-approved combination lock helps protect your belongings.

This suitcase is thoughtfully designed with a practical layout, which features two zippable clamshell sections and multiple pockets for various travel accessories, plus a handy water-resistant pocket to store your toiletries or damp items.

This luggage is made with a zippered expansion to increase its depth by two inches. A comfortable contour grip handle easily pulls the bag on both two or four of the bag's PrecisionGlide spinning wheels. Though we love the USB charging option, we wish that the necessary power bank was included in the moderate purchase price. Even if you don't use the charging capabilities, we think this carry-on luggage is a great buy.

Dimensions : 23 x 14.5 x 9.5 inches | Weight: 8.1 lbs. | Charging-Enabled: Yes, but battery not included

Delsey Paris Cruise 3.0 Carry-on Spinner

Delsey Paris

The dual-density spinner wheels maneuver easily on two or four wheels.

This small bag has a surprisingly spacious interior with a mesh-zip pocket and elastic crisscrossing straps.

Three handle options make this lightweight bag easier to lift into the overhead bin.

The telescoping handle feels a bit shaky when extended to its tallest height.

The USB-compatible case doesn't come with a charging battery.

The Cruise 3.0 Carry-On exceeded expectations across all of our tests. The wheels glided smoothly over every surface on two wheels and four. It tackled any curve or spin like a pro and felt lightweight in hand through each maneuver. We were worried that the shell might be flimsy because of how lightweight it was, but we were swiftly proved wrong: The luggage looked nearly spotless after a brutal meeting with our baseball bat. 

Another reason to love this easy-rolling suitcase is the spacious interior. One side of the clamshell-style suitcase can be zipped up with a mesh divider to keep your items safely in place. The other side is crisscrossed by elastic straps, and the entire lining is removable and washable. The exterior of the bag has a classic telescoping handle, a loop strap on the top, and one on the side to make it easier for you to lift into the overhead bin. 

The Cruise 3.0 rolls smoothly, has a spacious layout , and fits easily into standard overhead bins. We struggled to find anything that we didn’t like about this bag but did notice that the handle felt slightly wobbly when extended to its fullest height. We were also a little annoyed that though the case has a slot for a portable charger and a USB port on the outside, it doesn’t come with a battery. But, other than a few small qualms, the Cruise 3.0 is worth its reasonable price.  

Dimensions : 15 x 10 x 22.75 inches | Weight: 7.4 lbs. | Charging-Enabled: Yes

Best Investment

Tumi alpha international dual access carry-on.

This smartly designed suitcase offers plenty of organization pockets, including a removable hanging garment sleeve.

The smooth-rolling, 360-degree wheels roll easily over every surface we’ve tried, including dirt and gravel.

The soft case is sturdy and durable and comes with a 5-year warranty.

This is one of the most expensive carry-on suitcases we tested.

For frequent fliers who value an organized suitcase, the International Dual Access 4-Wheeled Carry-On from Tumi is the best splurge pick we’ve tried. Every detail of this soft-sided case has been carefully planned to create a smooth, user-friendly travel experience. The case has pockets aplenty — a front U-zip pocket,  a gusseted straight pocket, and even a hanging mesh zipper pocket with a removable garment sleeve to hang up your finery. 

We love that this suitcase has two convenient entry options and a dual-access section that’s the perfect place to keep a jacket for easy access mid-flight. It also has smooth, 360-degree rotating wheels that made it a breeze to roll around the airport. The band glided over dirt and rocks without a hitch, and the outer soft shell looked as good as new after all of our testing. Plus, it has a USB port , three handles, and a TSA-approved combination lock . 

Through all of our tests, the Tumi International bag proved to be top of its class. But the smartly designed bag does come with an eyebrow-raising price tag. So, the question stands — do we think the bag is worth the price? For frequent travelers who want a long-lasting, organized piece of luggage, we think the International Dual Access bag is worth its high price if you can swing it, especially since it comes with a five-year warranty. 

Dimensions : 22 x 14 x 9 inches | Weight: 10.7 lbs. | Charging-Enabled: Yes

Best Soft-Sided

Travelpro platinum elite carry-on.

This soft-sided suitcase can be squeezed into tighter spaces than its hard-shell counterparts.

It has 360-spinning wheels, which glided and pivoted easily in our tests.

The interior doesn't offer as many organizational options as some of the other suitcases we’ve tested.

The zippers are difficult to distinguish and didn't work as intended in our tests.

This bag compares well to similar, much more expensive bags. It performed amazingly in our durability tests, sustaining no noticeable scuffing or damage with the ladder or baseball bat. It also performed well on different surfaces, and the 360-degree spinner wheels pivoted nicely. The handle can be adjusted to five different heights , and the exterior handles are well-placed for lifting the bag.

There are a few downsides — for one, the interior doesn't come equipped with much in the way of organization, so you may want to spring for your own packing cubes . When packing, we also found it difficult to distinguish between the zipper that expands the interior and the zipper that closes the bag. Lastly, the bag we tested came with one of the two external zippers broken.

All that said, this bag looks and mostly performs just as well as its pricier counterparts. Based on its sleek look and the fact that there were no major issues during testing, it's easy to recommend this bag. It's not perfect, but it's more than good enough.

Dimensions : 21.75 x 13.75 x 9.75 inches | Weight: 6.9 lbs. | Charging-Enabled: No

Best Hard-Shell

Away the bigger carry-on flex.

This bag comes with smart technology, with three charging ports, including one "fast" port.

The sleek exterior suffered no damage during our ladder drop test.

It comes with handy organizational features like a shoe bag and interior pouch compression pad.

We found the exterior zipper to be slightly sticky.

The included cleaning sponge didn't remove all the scuffs caused by our drop-testing.

We loved how easily this bag rolled indoors, and it also fared well on cobblestones during testing. The hardside exterior pays off in durability. There was no damage after our ladder test! And there was no denting when we took a baseball bat to it.

As far as "smart" bags go, this one is a great choice. It comes with three charging ports , one of which is a "fast" charger that we found worked very well. If you're traveling with lots of devices, this is a really nice feature.

The luggage itself comes with a shoe bag, interior pouch compression pad, and enclosed compartment, which are all nice to have, but the interior space does suffer a little because the telescopic handle retracts inside. Still, this bag is Away's larger-size carry-on model, so you should have a decent amount of room. At 8 pounds , it was pretty easy to lift and store overhead.

The bag comes with a sponge to clean the exterior, but in practice, we found the sponge pretty useless, and it didn't do much to help with scuffing. The exterior zipper can also get a little sticky occasionally. Other than these minor complaints, it's a solid bag.

Dimensions : 22.75 x 15.25 x 9.5 inches | Weight: 8 lbs. | Charging-Enabled: Yes, two USB ports and an additional port

Best Features

Tumi continental dual access carry-on.

It has two entry points, which makes packing and unpacking more convenient.

The built-in garment bag and hanging rod allowed us to easily pack dress clothes without worrying about wrinkles.

This is one of the most expensive bags that we've tested.

If you're looking to shell out cash for a high-quality, thoughtfully designed suitcase, look no further than the Tumi Continental Dual Access 4-Wheeled Carry-On. This soft-sided bag is an organized traveler's dream, complete with a large mesh zip pocket, three smaller zip pockets, and a removable garment sleeve with a fiberglass rod to hang up your clothes once you arrive at your destination. To keep your belongings safe, this bag features a TSA-approved combination lock and comes with a complimentary Tumi Tracer code to track your suitcase if it's lost or stolen.

One of the features that set this carry-on luggage apart from the rest is the dual-access sections , which allow you to enter the bag through a front lid or traditional split-case section, both of which are closed with security zippers. This feature is especially handy when you need to access something in your bag at the airport.

Though we love the gambit of nifty features included with this luggage, including a built-in USB port , retractable top, side grab handles, and a complimentary monogram option,  this bag also comes with some sticker shock. But, for all of its handy, luxurious features, the price may just be worth it.

Dimensions : 22 x 16 x 9 inches | Weight: 11.1 lbs. | Charging-Enabled: Yes, but battery not included

Best Lightweight

Calpak luka carry-on.

The interior of this suitcase has one large compartment that keeps things simple and clean.

The front of the bag is covered in a puffer jacket padding that looks stylish and helps protect the external laptop sleeve.

Because this bag has a very simple design with few extra features, we think it’s priced a little higher than it should be.

If you’re looking for a basic, sturdy bag without all of the extra bells and whistles, we recommend this stylish choice from Calpak. It has one main compartment without a barrage of pockets and slots, so you can organize it however you like. The small, zip-flap carry-on is a great size for a long weekend trip. It’s also super lightweight , at just under seven pounds.

One organizational feature that this bag does offer is a padded laptop pocket that can fit a computer up to 17 inches in size. In fact, the whole front of the bag is padded with a puffer jacket-like casing that not only looks trendy and unique but also helps protect the suitcase from impact.

Overall, this suitcase isn’t the most expensive we’ve tried, but it costs a little more than we’d expect it to, considering the bare-bones design. But if you’re willing to pay for style, then this simple suitcase is a solid choice. 

Dimensions : 21 x 13.75 x 9 inches | Weight: 6.6 lbs. | Charging-Enabled: No

People / Joy Kim

People / Alexander Huang

Best Longevity

L.l.bean medium carryall pullman.

This softside carry-on was one of the sturdiest bags we tested, thanks to a thick, durable twill outer fabric and a sturdy inner frame.

It offers great organization options, with plenty of external pockets and two large internal zippered sections.

This bag didn’t roll as smoothly on carpeted floors as it did on linoleum and concrete.

Who says a softside bag can’t be sturdy? The L.L.Bean Carryall Spinner proves any nay-sayer wrong with durable rubber edges and sturdy wheels . The carry-on suitcase is made with an abrasion-resistant twill that looked as good as new after our vigorous drop-testing. Though it’s a soft suitcase, it’s made with a rigid base frame that makes it feel sturdier than other soft-shell carry-ons we’ve tested. 

Another reason to love the L.L.Bean Carryall is its impressive organization . The bag has more external pockets than any other bag we’ve tested, including two outer side pockets that were the perfect size for us to slip in a pair of shoes so we could separate them from the rest of our clothes. The outside of the bag also has two front pockets that can hold a laptop, chargers, tablets, books, or anything else that you want to have easily accessible during your travels. 

The only point-subtractions this bag garnered from us came from its performance in the roll test. This bag didn’t roll as easily on carpeted floors as we would've liked, but it did maneuver smoothly on hard surfaces. Overall, this bag’s sturdy construction and multiple organization options make it well worth its price. 

Dimensions : 22 x 14 x 9 inches | Weight: 7.9 lbs. | Charging-Enabled: No

Things to Consider Before Buying Carry-On Luggage

Loyal to one airline? Check their guidelines on bag dimensions before purchasing — some luggage labeled "carry-on" may be too big for their overhead bins, especially if you tend to travel on smaller regional airplanes. Here is a guide you can reference that details the requirements of most major U.S. carriers. In addition to making sure the size is compliant, consider if you want an expandable bag, as well. If you are prone to picking up souvenirs, it's a good idea to have an expandable bag for the journey home.

Weight and Maneuverability

Can you easily lift the bag to store it overhead? Bags we tested ranged from 5.1 to 10.8 pounds, but make sure you can lift your bag while it's both empty and full if you're traveling solo. In addition to lifting and storing your bag, you'll want to make sure it's easy to roll around. Do the wheels catch, or do they roll pretty smoothly? Does the bag easily handle sharp airport turns and weaving in and out of crowds? Can the bag roll on smooth surfaces like airport terminals as well as bumpy sidewalks? You'll definitely want to consider this. If your new carry-on bag arrives and it can't pass your own maneuverability tests, most luggage companies have flexible return policies.

Smart Capabilities

If you travel with a lot of devices, it can be really handy to have a bag that doubles as a charger. Some luggage comes with USB and USB-C charging capabilities, but keep in mind that you might need to purchase the power bank yourself if it’s not included.

Carry-ons go through a lot, especially if you end up in one of those "the bins are full, and we need you to check your bag" situations. A bag that can stand up to a battering is key. That's why we put our carry-on bags through numerous durability tests to see which ones showed wear and tear. Our best overall pick, the Samsonite Freeform Hardside Expandable Carry-On , is both lightweight and durable. That's the best-case scenario for a carry-on bag.

How We Tested Carry-On Luggage

We tested 18 pieces of carry-on luggage in our PEOPLE Tested lab (and 45 pieces of luggage total, including checked luggage, backpacks, and duffels). We assessed the suitcases on the following qualities: 

• Organization: We weighed and measured each bag, devoid of contents. Then, we packed for a weekend getaway, using the same amount of items for each bag. We took note of how many pockets the suitcases had, both internally and externally, and filled the pockets with items from our packing list to see how practically designed they were. 
• Maneuverability: Once the bag was packed, we closed it up and wheeled it around on multiple surfaces, including a smooth indoor floor, an outdoor sidewalk, and cobblestones. We also tested whether it rolled on two or four wheels. We used the bag’s external handles and straps to attempt to lift the bags overhead into our model standard-sized airline bins. 
• Durability: We put the packed bag on top of a six-foot ladder and pushed it off three times, checking after each fall to see if the contents of the bag had shifted. Finally, we took a baseball bat to the bag and hit it up and down the exterior. Once that was finished, we checked for dents and recorded our findings.

The pieces of luggage that passed our tests with flying colors made this PEOPLE-Tested list of the best carry-on luggage.

Technically, any piece of luggage could function as a carry-on as long as it does not exceed the airline's size and weight limits. Generally speaking, this means if it can fit in the overhead compartment, it can be carried onboard.

As mentioned above, the size limits of carry-on luggage vary from airline to airline. The standard carry-on size, however, is 22 x 14 x 9 inches, with a maximum size between 45 and 51 linear inches. To find the maximum size, add the height, length, and depth of the bag together.

Again, this is at the discretion of each airline, and many of them do not restrict the weight of carry-on luggage for domestic flights. Weight limits can go as low as 15 pounds on budget airlines and up to 35 pounds on others. Consult your company's policies before you arrive at the airport.

That depends on the dimensions of your bag. If it does not exceed 18 x 14 x 8 inches, it will fit. Most commonly, personal items should be able to fit under the seat, and your carry-on should be able to easily fit in the overhead compartment.

Cai Cramer is a commerce writer at PEOPLE, covering the best and buzziest products across the beauty, fashion, health, and lifestyle spaces. To inform this story, Cai spoke with travel specialist Rebecca Mazzaro about what to look for in a carry-on suitcase, which helped inform the winning categories. Cai did extensive research and consulted the testing insights from the PEOPLE Tested Labs, where we rolled, carried, and packed 45 different suitcases to choose the winning carry-ons featured on this list.

Rebecca Mazzaro is a travel specialist at ATJ where she designs unique, custom travel experiences to Asia. She has also been named one of Travel & Leisure ’s A-List Travel Advisors seven times.

We created the PEOPLE Tested seal of approval to help you find the very best products for your life. We use our unique methodology to test products in three labs across the country and with our network of home testers to determine their effectiveness, durability, ease of use, and so much more. Based on the results, we rate and recommend products so you can find the right one for your needs.

But we don't stop there: We also regularly re-review the categories in which we've awarded the PEOPLE Tested seal of approval — because the best product of today might not be the best of tomorrow. And by the way, companies can never buy our recommendation: Their products must earn it, fair and square.

In short, PEOPLE Tested provides recommendations you can trust — every day, every purchase.

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The Best Crossbody Bags For Travel, Built With Storage And Style

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Roomy enough to carry everyday essentials, the best crossbody bags for travel give you the freedom to explore without having to lug your suitcase around. We researched the best crossbody bags for travel that offer both storage and style and selected the MZ Wallace Small Sutton Deluxe as our top pick. We also found other great options for different travel styles, like a spacious crescent bag for beach trips and a sleek sling bag for organization.

The best crossbody bags for travel give you the freedom to explore without having to lug your ... [+] suitcase around.

A solid crossbody bag is versatile and provides convenient hands-free storage for every situation. This 4-in-1 leather bag from Lo & Sons stylishly transitions from day to night, while Lululemon’s popular Everywhere Belt Bag can be worn on the hip or across the body. Meanwhile, active travelers will get great use out of the Nomatic Navigator Sling , which features a water bottle holder and a stabilizer strap. Below, the best crossbody bags for travel in a variety of price points, styles and materials.

• Best Crossbody Bag For Travel Overall: MZ Wallace Small Sutton Deluxe
• Best Affordable Crossbody Bag For Travel: Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Mini Shoulder Bag
• Best Crossbody Bag For Organization: Aer Day Sling 3
• Best Crossbody Bag For Parents: Hobo Sheila Large Satchel
• Best Crossbody Bag For Beach Trips: Baggu Large Nylon Crescent Bag
• Best Crossbody Bag For Active Trips: Nomatic Navigator Sling 6L
• Most Versatile Crossbody Bag For Travel: Lo & Sons Waverley 2 in Nappa Leather
• Best Belt Bag For Travel: Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag 1 L
• Best Crossbody Bag For Men: Cotopaxi Coso 2L Hip Pack
• Best Leather Crossbody Bag For Travel: Quince Italian Leather Triple Compartment Crossbody

Best Crossbody Bag For Travel Overall

Lightweight, stylish storage, mz wallace small sutton deluxe.

Dimensions: 9.8 × 5.5 × 10.20 inches | Weight: 1.08 pounds | Materials: Recycled oxford (polyester, nylon), leather

With a handy key ring strap and five interior pockets, this versatile bag is perfect for staying organized during travel. It can be worn as a crossbody or top handle tote and its water-resistant oxford fabric won’t weigh you down on your journey. There’s an easy-to-adjust nylon strap for a customized fit and the detachable interior pouch is big enough to hold a pair of shoes, plus the ample pockets provide plenty of space for your phone, keys, tickets and more. It weighs only a pound but can fit a surprising amount of items, plus its plush fabric folds down for packing.

Best Affordable Crossbody Bag For Travel

Security features plus many pockets, travelon anti-theft classic mini shoulder bag.

Dimensions: 8.5 x 8.5 x 2.25 inches | Weight: 0.7 pounds | Materials: Polyester, nylon

Travelon’s Anti-Theft Classic Mini Shoulder Bag packs an impressive punch for being so small. Its six pockets keep everything where you need it—including an RFID-blocking passport and card interior organizer—while a tethered key caddy with an LED light eliminates that dreaded “can’t-find-it-in-my-bag” feeling. The 5-Point Anti-Theft security system protects against theft threats with slash-resistant fabric, lockable straps and secure zipper pulls. Not only will you feel safe wearing this bag, but thanks to its 13 colors and prints, you’ll also look stylish anywhere your trip may take you.

Best Crossbody Bag For Organization

A compact sling bag with room to spare, aer day sling 3.

Dimensions: 11.5 x 6 x 3 inches | Weight: 0.8 pounds | Materials: Cordura nylon

With a ballistic nylon exterior and a unique design that zips open for easy access, Aer’s Day Sling 3 is one of the more durable crossbody options out there. It has a 3L capacity that fits a surprising amount of items and its 8 pockets ensure everything stays in its place. There are multiple loops for strapping onto your luggage or storage and a handy front pocket with a key leash and cool security features like a secret back pocket. There’s also a sneaky Fidlock clasp that makes it harder for a pickpocket to snatch your bag.

Best Crossbody Bag For Parents

Extra space and storage for the whole family, hobo sheila large satchel.

Dimensions: 13.5 x 14 x 5.5 inches | Weight: 1.6 pounds | Materials: Raffia, leather

For parents or travelers who need to tote a lot of stuff on the go, a larger bag might be in order. Hobo’s Sheila Large Satchel offers nice organizational features and high style points. It’s made of a lightweight woven raffia with leather trim for added durability, plus its six interior pockets, key lanyard and accessible side exterior pocket are perfect for storing smaller items you may need throughout the day. Its main compartment is quite roomy, easily fitting a laptop, kid’s tablet, diaper wipes, snacks, toys, a backup outfit and more. The flexibility of its 3-in-1 styling really stands out—the adjustable strap can be worn as a crossbody, shortened for a shoulder bag or simply removed to transform into a classy top handle bag for a night out after the kiddos go to sleep.

Best Crossbody Bag For Beach Trips

Large and easy to wear for sandy days in the sun.

Urban Outfitters

Baggu Large Nylon Crescent Bag

Dimensions: 10.5 × 19.5 × 5.25 inches | Weight: N/A (not listed) | Materials: 100% recycled nylon

A beach bag calls for some pretty specific features: it needs to be durable and water-resistant, it should be big enough to hold bulky towels and ideally, it has a simple shape so sand won’t get lodged in the nooks and crannies. After much research, the Baggu Crescent Bag fits the bill. Its adjustable strap can be worn across the chest or as a tighter-fitting shoulder bag, the large size is roomy enough for a couple towels and a change of clothes and the zippered interior pocket keeps your wallet and keys secure. The quick-drying ripstop nylon is not only recycled, it’s also durable enough to withstand the windiest—and wettest—of beach days. Consider adding a few of Baggu’s fun printed flat pouches for additional organization.

Best Crossbody Bag For Active Trips

A durable sling with no detail spared, nomatic navigator sling 6l.

Dimensions: 13.5 x 9 x 4 inches | Weight: 1.3 pounds | Materials: 80% nylon, 20% polyester

Whether you’re hiking, biking or riding the metro, the Navigator Sling from Nomatic offers durability, storage and some impressive features. There’s a water bottle holder that zips away when not in use, a molded EVA back panel for wearable comfort and breathability, a tamper-resistant zipper and tech features like built-in tablet storage, an RFID-blocking pocket for your cards and a cord-pass through for charging your devices in different pockets. If you’re running or moving around a lot, there’s also a stabilizer strap that clips on to keep the sling even more secure to your body. Unlike some sling styles, this bag has multiple zippered storage compartments, the main one opening extra wide for easier access.

Most Versatile Crossbody Bag For Travel

Four ways to wear it.

Lo & Sons

Lo & Sons Waverley 2 in Nappa Leather

Dimensions: 5.6 x 8 x 2 inches | Weight: 0.6 pounds | Materials: Nappa, Saffiano or cactus leather

When you’re on the go, sometimes the last thing you want is to ruin the flow of the day by making a pit stop at the hotel to change out a bag before dinner. We like the Lo & Sons Waverley for its inventive versatility that adapts to your needs. The minimal leather design has an adjustable strap that can be worn 4 ways: as a hands-free belt bag, a longer crossbody, a casual shoulder bag or an elevated clutch with (or without) a wristlet. The main compartment is large enough for the essentials and the zippered inner pocket keeps smaller items secure no matter where your day—or night—takes you.

Best Belt Bag For Travel

Hands-free storage in a slim profile, lululemon everywhere belt bag 1 l.

Dimensions: 7.5 x 2 x 5 inches | Weight: N/A (not listed) | Materials: Nylon, recycled polyester

Over 22,500 reviewers agree: the Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag is sleek, lightweight and versatile enough to be worn just about anywhere your travels take you. It has a water-repellant nylon exterior and one main compartment, three mesh interior pockets for added organization and a back zipper for your phone or cards. Its adjustable strap can tighten for comfortable wearing around your waist or it can be extended as a crossbody sling. With a 1L capacity, this bag is definitely on the smaller side, so you might want to consider their larger 2L size if you need more space.

Best Crossbody Bag For Men

Rugged looks for when you're on the go, cotopaxi coso 2l hip pack.

Dimensions: 11 x 7 x 3 inches | Weight: 10 ounces | Materials: Recycled nylon, recycled polyester

This easy-wearing hip pack from Cotopaxi combines an urban rugged look with smart storage solutions. The recycled nylon exterior is durable with a matte TPU coating, making it water-resistant and easy to clean, while a fleece interior pocket stores your phone or other small devices without any scratch risk. There’s multiple grab handles for easy carrying, secure pockets for smaller items and in addition to the main zippered compartment, the exterior front flap pocket can store a rolled-up lightweight jacket when you get warm on the go. G-hooks on both sides can be adjusted for customized storage and it can be comfortably worn as a crossbody on the front or back, or around the waist as a belt bag.

Best Leather Crossbody Bag For Travel

Three storage sections in a minimal package, quince italian leather triple compartment crossbody.

Dimensions: 7.8 x 9.5 x 3 inches | Weight: 1.54 pounds | Materials: Leather

Quince’s smooth Italian leather crossbody might look simple from the outside, but there’s actually a lot of unexpected storage inside. The bag has three main compartments—two zippered sections flanking one open area that closes with snaps—plus three internal zippered pockets to take your organization a step further. It also comes with two detachable straps that allow for crossbody or wristlet wear. Quince is known for its fair prices and ethical manufacturing process, and if that’s not impressive enough, the brand also offers a generous 365-day return policy.

9 Of The Best Dress Pants For Men That Consistently Earn Top Reviews

The most comfortable sandals for women, according to a podiatrist, why trust forbes vetted.

Our team at Forbes Vetted is comprised of seasoned editors, writers and researchers who not only love travel, but love to shop. We approach all of our travel product roundups with a discerning eye, focusing on quality, value and more, taking the time to assess products so you don’t have to. From the best luggage locks to the best carry-on backpacks , we spend countless hours researching, vetting and testing travel products to bring you the best of what’s on the market so you can make smart and informed shopping decisions for that next big trip or cruise . This story was written by contributor Becky Eaton , who regularly writes fashion, accessory and travel product guides for Forbes Vetted.

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The Best Aluminum Suitcases for Every Trip

What we’ve tested, researched, and recommend to suit various budgets and travel needs.

By Evan Malachosky , Justin Fenner , and Ben Bowers

Every product is carefully selected by our editors. If you buy from a link, we may earn a commission.  Learn more

Aluminum suitcases are a travel conundrum. In some ways, they offer what every hard-sided suitcase buyer cares about – i.e., the ultimate amount of protection for their personal items. Many are also very repairable, allowing them to last for decades. 

But these unique bags are also tremendously impractical and expensive compared to  other luggage options . The truth is, most aluminum suitcases ding easily, aren’t expandable, and weigh a hefty 9 to 12 pounds.

Still, denying their  aesthetic appeal  and sense of substance in a world increasingly drowning in plastics is difficult. 

If you’re interested in traveling with an aluminum suitcase on your next adventure, here are the carry-on options we’ve tested, researched, and recommend to suit various budgets and use cases.

Aluminum Suitcases We Recommend

Best Overall

The Most Iconic Aluminum Suitcase

Best Affordable Option with an Aluminum Look

A Truly All-Aluminum Option

Best for Charging Modern Devices

Affordable Option Made from Aluminum

Most Distinctive

A More Durable Option

How We Tested Our Aluminum Suitcase Recommendations

Our tester took several suitcases all over the continental US — from Austin, Texas to New York City. They assessed how easy the suitcases were to pack, but also roll through security, lift into the overhead bin, lock, load back into the car and unload, too. They also surveyed how the suitcases faired after a fall down a luggage carousel or after being pushed into the rear of a luggage hold.

To learn more about our testing methodology and how we evaluate products, head here .

The Best Overall Aluminum Suitcase

Away The Carry-On: Aluminum Edition

• Excellent value and price, plus free shipping and returns
• Has hidden pockets and comes with a laundry bag
• Simple and stylish design
• Divider easily becomes misshapen through use
• Wheels aren’t as solid as other options on this list
• $645 at Away

If you’re a serial over-packer, turn to the roomy interior of Away’s The Carry-On: Aluminum Edition , a heavy-duty option that’ll earn its fair share of dents and dings. Because Away sells directly to consumers, they can drop costs by cutting out the middlemen. That makes Away an excellent value.

Our tester found the hidden pockets and included laundry bag helpful, and the bag comes case comes with a complimentary leather name tag, too. Plus, these wheels are some of the best of the bunch, but not quite as sturdy as Sterling Pacific’s.

As for packing it, it’s easy to do, but it’d be easier if both sides were identical, our tester says. The mesh, tube-formed divider eventually becomes misshapen, especially if you overpack it a few times. The other side, on the other hand, stays true to form, and helps keep the contents packed tightly down.

For a deeper look at the larger version, read our full review of the Away Large Carry-On .

Rimowa Classic Cabin Carry-On

• Built to last, thanks to its grooved aluminum body and ball-bearing mounted wheels
• Interior dividers help compress excess cargo
• Network includes warranty service from in-hotel concierges
• Spacious and roomy for packing however you’d like
• Telescopic handle doesn't feel on par with the rest of the suitcase
• Despite its price, it’s still prone to dings and scratches
• $1,430 at Rimowa

This is the status suitcase. Recognizable by its ridged aluminum exterior, Rimowa’s Original Cabin Carry-On is a go-to for first-class, full-time and famous travelers. (You’ve probably seen plenty of touring musicians with theirs covered in stickers. It’s the cool thing to do.) The German brand dates back the late 19th century and production still takes place in Cologne, where the company is headquartered. It is now, however, owned by luxury conglomerate LVMH.

What does that mean? Well, the quality hasn’t changed, but the conversations around the suitcases have. LVMH elevated the brand, making it as much a cultural touchpoint as it is a celebrated titan of consumer product design. You’ll appreciate its all-aluminum exterior, but the handles, which are hard plastic, feel lackluster in comparison.

But Rimowa’s aluminum suitcases are well-regarded for good reason. The shiny silver cases can take a beating, but they show their bruises boldly. This look’s not for everyone, especially if they bought the $1,400 suitcase for how it looks mint , fresh out of the box upon delivery.

The dents and dings, though, are a good thing, a constant reminder your case is actually working. These dents could’ve been cracks if you were rolling a polycarbonate option. As such, think of aluminum, despite its connotations, as the ultimate choice: a material meant to be put to the test, because it’ll pass with flying colors.

Read our full review of the Rimowa Original Cabin Carry-On .

An Affordable Option with Aluminum-Aesthetics

Monos Hybrid Carry-On

• Boasts plenty of scuff protection and corner bumpers
• Solid styling and available in multiple colors
• Telescopic handle has four height settings, including one appropriate for children
• Easily acquires scuffs
• Not actually made from Aluminum
• $325.00 at Monos

(Shhhhh… this bag is actually polycarbonate. How else could it be this affordable?) OK, the secret’s out. This option isn’t aluminum and as such, we debated whether it should be even included in this list. However, it has an aluminum frame. The front and back plates are cut from aerospace-grade polycarbonate, which Monos says proves just as indestructible. Everything’s tonal here, too, meaning all aluminum-colored everything.

Our tester says it’s nearly indistinguishable, though, and despite only taking it on a few trips so far, they haven’t run into any issues, even when they were forced to check it at the gate. It arrived with fewer literal dents, but it did show signs of damage nonetheless: a few dark-colored scuffs.

A Truly All-Aluminum Suitcase

Sterling Pacific 35L Cabin Travel Case

• Made from 100% Aluminum
• Minimal two-wheel design reduces the number of possible failure points
• Rectangular design makes it easy to pack
• Attractive, eye-catching design and leather handles
• Quickly attracts scuffs
• Very expensive
• Two-wheel design can be more of a hassle to roll vs. four-wheel options
• $1,950 at sterlingpacific.com
• $1,950 at Amazon

Unlike many options on this list which liberally integrate plastic into their designs, Sterling Pacific’s 35L Cabin Travel Case is made from 100 percent aluminum: an aerospace-grade aluminum body, reinforced aluminum corners, aluminum wheel housings and an aluminum trolley. It also stands out for its two wheel design and unusual shape: a slender lid offsets a deep trunk, where you can stow quite a lot. But its deviations from the norm, if you will, aren’t without reason. The two-wheel design reduces the number of possible failure points, and the rectangular shape makes it easier to pack.

Sure, it’s a little wonky-looking, but it was easy to adjust to after a few rolls, our tester says, plus the suitcase is less likely to snag on a cracked sidewalk or tile floor, like four-wheeled designs do.

The $1,950 suitcase is extremely expensive and may not come with the luxury recognition of a brand like Rimowa , for example, but that’s also part of its appeal. Sterling Pacific is carving its own lane, catering to elite travelers with high standards — and staying with them through the life of their suitcase, offering a lifetime warranty and endless complimentary repairs.

Read our full review of the Sterling Pacific 35L Cabin Travel Case .

A Great Aluminum Suitcase for Charging Modern Devices

Arlo Skye The Frame Carry-On Max: Aluminum Edition

• The shell, wraparound frame, corner caps and hinges are all made from aluminum alloys
• Full grain leather handles
• Very smooth, quiet wheels
• Antimicrobial odor-fighting lining
• Has built-in USB-C and USB-A charging ports
• Thinner aluminum shell
• Battery must be removed before each flight
• $695.00 at arloskye.com

Founded by former execs from luggage specialists Tumi and Louis Vuitton, Arlo Skye brings luxurious touches to its approach-ably priced bags. Its aluminum carry-on features an antimicrobial lining, sports a built-in USB-C and -A charging port and some of the quietest wheels of all the bags on the market, reviewers say. It also boasts the largest capacity of any bag on this list, is available in champagne and all-black aluminum color ways too, and features more parts made from aluminum as well as premium-feeling full grain leather handles. One of our testers wished the aluminum shell was slightly thicker, though, which would help deter dents. They were upset that the suitcase returned from its first journey with a sizable wound, even though that’s a part of the art of aluminum suitcases.

An Affordable Option Actually Made from Aluminum

Level8 Gibralter Aluminum Carry-On

• Mesh interior pocket divider
• Handles made of metal alloy, not plastic
• Noiseless handles with slow release to prevent pinching
• Line-free exterior that looks different
• Some users say internal straps broke after a few uses
• Several users say its frame and depth is not large enough
• $430 at level8cases.com
• $429 at Amazon

Aerospace-grade aluminum magnesium alloy is a material known for its lightweight and its ability to resist corrosion and other damage. As such, it makes for an ideal frame for any suitcase. Level8 applies it to its zipper-less lock closure suitcase, which has super-quiet wheels and an alloy handle, too.

The interior dividers were identical, too, which made packing easy, but they can be removed as well if you prefer to pack without them. Our tester found despite the slight frame of this suitcase, it still packed quite a bit. This bag is also the most affordable option on our list that’s actually made from an aluminum magnesium alloy, instead of using plastic to merely mimic aluminum’s metallic look. To some degree, you’ll get what you pay for quality-wise, but we appreciate that Level8 includes a 4-piece packing cube set and suitcase cover protector with the purchase price.

The Most Distinctive Aluminum Suitcase

Tumi 19 Degree Continental Carry-On

• Smooth, 360-degree wheels
• Unique style makes it stand out from others on this list
• Option for Monogramming
• Can be too small for longer trips
• Heavy for its size
• $1,295 at Tumi
• $1,295 at Nordstrom

There’s a kinetic beauty to the fluid lines of Tumi’s aluminum luggage — it looks like it’s moving even when it’s standing still. With a 35L capacity, it can comfortably hold everything you need for a few days away, but not much longer, and that’s the primary complaint from reviewers. That and this suitcase’s weight.

It’s fairly heavy for a small-sized suitcase, but that helps it roll smoother, a perk plenty praised online. If you want the lightest suitcase, this isn’t it. This suitcase does also technically have the shortest listed warranty of the options on this list (along with Zero Haliburton), but then again, it’s hard to know how some of the newer luggage brands will follow through on their promises, and Tumi has been in business since 1975. The bottom line is if you want something different from a brand that’s made luggage longer than any other company on this list save Rimowa, Tumi’s the right fit for you.

A More Durable Aluminum Suitcase Option

Zero Haliburton Pursuit Aluminum International Carry-On

• Solid, heavy-duty construction
• Comes with plenty of internal dividers and pockets
• Heftier dividers would better support packing
• Distracting blue-hued handles
• $1,045 at Zero Haliburton
• $1,045 at Amazon

Zero Halliburton is one of a handful of American-made brands whose wares have been to space. Its latest edition features the same hard-sided protection as the bags it started making in 1938 and carries a 5-year warranty.

Reviewers like that the suitcase has handles on all sides, making lifting it into an overhead bin or up off of a luggage carousel easy. But some cited the coated handles as, well, a little too distracting from the silver suitcase. Many say it’d fare better if the handles were leather or even silver plastic, not the distracting, shiny blue hue. As for packing it, heftier, more helpful dividers would’ve been nice, they say, to keep everything in its correct place.

One Bag to Be Wary Of

Anyone researching aluminum luggage will likely come across the  MVST. Select Trek Aluminum Suitcase . The luggage looks quite similar to the iconic Rimowa Classic Cabin carry-on included in this guide but costs a mere $395, making it immediately appealing to many. 

While we have yet to test the bag directly, there is  enough online chatter from previous customers  to indicate the bag may be too good to be true. 

Previous buyers complain of not being notified about long shipping delays and more concerning quality control issues such as broken wheels and hinges after only a few trips. 

The Main Benefits of Traveling with Aluminum Suitcases

• Aluminum suitcases tend to protect packed contents better and won’t crack like polycarbonate suitcases or tear like soft-sided options.
• Aluminum suitcases are repairable, meaning they can have a much longer usable lifespan if they are maintained well. Many polycarbonate suitcases aren’t repairable at all and will wind up in the trash sooner.
• Aluminum suitcases will patina overtime as you take on adventures, creating a unique look that’s all your own.

The Main Downsides of Using Aluminum Suitcases

• Aluminum suitcases are usually more expensive than similarly-sized hard-sided plastic luggage.
• Aluminum suitcases will show dings and dents over time.
• Aluminum suitcases are often heavier than plastic hard-sided suitcases.
• Aluminum suitcases cannot be overpacked, even more so than other hard-sided bags made of plastic.
• Aluminum suitcases tend to be more flashy and may draw unwanted attention to your belongings while traveling.

A Quick Word on What Aluminum Luggage Warranties Actually Cover

Many luggage companies proudly tout lifetime warranties, but in most cases, these lifetime warranties apply only to defects that may result in critical components breaking.

They do not cover the dings, dents, and scratches a piece of aluminum luggage will invariably pick up over time, which may look alarming but are just cosmetic issues.

A Handy List of Approved Carry-On Sizes for Major U.S. Domestic Airlines

Approved Carry-on sizing reference table last updated 4/9/2024

To learn more about how big (or heavy) your carry-on can be, refer to our broader guide to the best carry-on suitcases for every trip .

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Who knew we would worry so much about  airline baggage  size and extra fees? Do you know what size carry-on will be allowed for your next flight?

Experienced travelers understand you can only rely on one rule for some airlines. Most domestic airlines have a size limit close to 22″ x 14″ x 9″, counting handles and wheels. However, International Airlines often have a size restriction of 21.5 x 15.5 x 9 inches and often have a weight limit.

Airline Carry-on Luggage Size Guide

You can learn the specific luggage rules to make your trip smooth and avoid any issues with your luggage.

Key Takeaways

• Most domestic airlines have a similar carry-on size limit : about 22″ x 14″ x 9″.
• International Airlines often have a size restriction of 21.5 x 15.5 x 9 inches and a weight limit.
• There is no one weight limit for carry-ons on major domestic airlines, but it varies on regional and international flights.
• To avoid extra fees or gate-checking, use a carry-on suitcase no bigger than 21” for broad acceptance.
• Personal items must be smaller than carry-on bags and fit under the seat in front of you.
• Using space-saving accessories is an intelligent way to increase carry-on capacity.

Understanding Airline Carry-On Luggage Policies

Frequent travelers know how crucial it is to follow airline carry-on luggage rules. This cabin luggage size for most airlines makes travel easy and trouble-free. Airlines have strict carry-on luggage dimensions for safety and to best use cabin space.

Make sure to always check your specific carry on luggage size limits , as they can change and they may be tougher than you expected. This is especially true for budget airlines, who might have strict rules to make extra money from baggage fees. I’ve seen this firsthand and it can cost you an extra $100 at the gate just to board your flight.

Most airlines let you also bring another small bag, like a handbag or laptop bag. It just has to fit under the seat in front of you. As before, always check your specific airlines policies and your cabin category. Because what once was allowed in the past, is rapidly changing as airlines create new fee structures.

One thing to also note, is if your bag doesn’t fit or your flight is full, you may have to gate check your carry-on for no fee. I often hear this offered when traveling. The gate agent will offer passengers the opportunity to gate check their luggage before boarding time.

Airlines have different rules for carry-on bag size international standards. It’s wise to check with your airline before you pack. Before an international trip , you should learn about these carry-on luggage rules. Knowing them can make your travel smooth and save you from unexpected fees or having to repack at the airport.

International Flight Dimension Requirements: Avoiding Extra Fees

Being careful with your packing is crucial for international flights . The carry-on size for these trips is often smaller. A safe bet for international carry-on size is about 21.5″ x 15.5″ x 9″ . Always check your airline’s size rules to avoid extra charges.

Size Discrepancies and How to Navigate Them

Slight differences in carry-on rules can be tricky. For example, one airline might have stricter limits and charges for heavy bags than another. To plan better, you should know the carry-on sizes and restrictions for international flights.

Here’s a table showing carry-on dimensions and weight limits for major airlines:

Knowing the carry-on size rules is critical for a smooth trip. Always check your airline’s most current rules before you go to the airport.

The Risks of Overpacking: A Cautionary Tale

Have you ever had to check your carry-on at the last minute ? This can lead to extra fees. Or worse, you might miss a connecting flight while your bag is sorted. Pack only the essentials to avoid this while keeping within the carry-on  dimensions airlines set.

How Airlines Enforce Carry-On Size Restrictions

Airlines closely monitor carry-on sizes for everyone’s safety and convenience. You’ll see luggage sizers at check-in and gates. Your bag must fit in these to meet the airline carry-on size limits . Budget airlines may be stricter, charging more for bags that don’t comply.

Before you fly, ensure your luggage fits your airline’s carry-on dimensions . This avoids extra charges and speeds up boarding for everyone.

Maximizing Packing Space Within Carry Luggage Dimensions

Meeting carry-on baggage size dimensions can still mean efficient packing. Use innovative solutions to see fit within the carry-on the maximum size as a chance for clever travel. The right-best size carry-on  bag has features to help use space well. It keeps things neat, organized, and easy to get to.

Packing cubes changes the game for saving space. These compact, light holders make your carry-on neat, dividing clothes or gear into sections. Compression bags shrink the size of big items like coats. By squeezing out air, you make extra space without breaking carry-on  maximum size rules.

Here are some tips and tools for making the most of your carry-on:

• Wear clothes you can mix, match, or pile up for different looks.
• Rolling clothes saves more space and keeps them from wrinkling, compared to folding.
• Go digital with books , papers, and fun stuff on digital gadgets instead of carrying them.

Stores like Amazon have many travel aids that fit within standard carry-on baggage size dimensions . Look at this table for some good picks:

The best size carry-on bag is one you can easily handle which fits airline rules. Planning is vital for using your carry-on space well without going past limits.

Smart packing reduces stress, making trips smoother. Whether it’s for work or fun, getting the most from your carry-on means you’re ready for anything. And you won’t need to check in extra bags.

Personal Items vs. Carry-On Luggage: Understanding the Difference

Travel-wise, people understand something critical for flying. They grasp the difference between personal items and carry-on luggage. Individual items include purses, laptop bags, or little backpacks. These must fit under the seat in front of you. Carry-on luggage , on the other hand, is a more significant item. They must fit in the overhead bins and stick to size rules.

The size limit for carry-on bags is usually 22 x 14 x 9 inches. Staying within these limits ensures everyone has room and keeps things safe. However, airlines might have different rules. Some are stricter, while others are more flexible. So, always check your airline’s carry-on size rules before you go to the airport.

• Size Matters: Always verify the carry-on luggage allowance with your airline’s guidelines.
• Personal vs. Carry-On: Understand which items must be accessible during the flight.
• Frequent Flyer Tip: Use a soft-sided personal item to exploit the under-seat space efficiently.

Following carry-on size rules is crucial. It helps make boarding quick and easy. Sticking to these limits makes your trip and others’ smoother. So, always measure your carry-on before leaving. Remember, a smooth trip starts with being prepared.

Selecting the Right Carry-On Luggage for Your Travel Needs

Selecting the right carry-on luggage is critical to a smooth trip. Whether you like the strength of hardshell carry-on luggage or the adaptability of softshell carry-on luggage , knowing the advantages and disadvantages of each helps you choose wisely.

Hardshell vs. Softshell: Pros and Cons

When considering how big carry-on luggage is, the best size for carry-on  luggage usually depends on your travel habits. It also depends on the airline’s approved luggage size . Hardshell luggage protects well against impacts and is perfect for sensitive items. Yet, its rigid shape can be challenging to fit in with carry-on case size limits when complete. Softshell luggage, however, has expandable sections for extra items and is lighter.

Rolling Suitcases vs. Travel Backpacks: Convenience in Mobility

Rolling suitcases and carry-on options make moving through busy airports easy. They match backpack hand-carry size rules well and fit in overhead bins. Travel backpacks give you freedom, fit under the seat, and keep your hands free for tickets and passports.

Brands and Budget: Finding the Best Value

Choosing affordable carry on luggage that’s still high quality means looking at different brands. Some are for luxury travelers who want durability and style. Others provide good, cost-effective choices within airline approved luggage size . Consider the price , how long it lasts, and the warranty services when judging value.

Carry-On Prohibited Items and Security Measures

Knowing security rules for carry-on luggage is as important as knowing size limits. To move smoothly through airport security, you need to understand the TSA’s liquid limits and international carry-on rules that may affect your trip.

TSA Guidelines and the 3-1-1 Liquids Rule

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) made rules for carry-on liquids to keep us safe and speed up screenings. The 3-1-1 rule lets you take travel-size liquids, gels, and aerosols, each under 3.4 ounces.

To be clear , here is the exact rule as written by the TSA: Liquids, gels and aerosols packed in carry-on must follow the 3-1-1 liquids rule:  3.4 ounces or less per container . 1 quart size, clear, plastic, zip top bag (all liquids must fit in bag) 1 bag per passenger.

To avoid problems, I try to ONLY pack any items like this in my checked luggage. I have seen many people have to throw items away or go through very detailed checks overseas where (what was allowed in the US) was not allowed in an international airport’s security check-point. Remember, you often have to go through other TSA like check-points at connecting airports overseas.

International Regulations for Carry-On Luggage

Traveling abroad means following different rules for carry-on luggage. Countries have their size limits and sometimes extra security steps. They often check not just your bag’s size and weight but also what’s in it, like electronics and batteries. It’s wise to look up these rules before you travel to avoid trouble at customs or security.

Here’s a quick list of carry-on sizes and liquid rules around the world:

Following TSA and international rules keeps everyone safe and comfy when flying. Always check your airline’s rules for carry-ons before you pack. This makes sure you meet their specific size and content rules.

Final Thoughts

Knowing the right carry-on size for savvy travelers is key to a smooth trip. The common size is around 22″ x 14″ x 9″. But this isn’t the same for all airlines. It’s important to check your airline’s size rules to avoid any issues.

Being smart about packing can make your trip much more accessible. Please ensure your bags fit the overhead bin, as it helps prevent surprises at the gate. Knowing security rules for both U.S. and international flights also helps. This way, you can go through checkpoints quickly.

Airline Carry-on Luggage Size and Weight FAQ

What are the weight limits for carry-on luggage on domestic airlines?

Weight limits for carry-on luggage vary by airline but typically range from 15 to 25 pounds. Please check with your airline before traveling to ensure you meet their requirements.

Can I bring a carry-on and a personal item on a flight?

Most airlines allow passengers to bring one carry-on bag and one personal item, such as a purse or laptop bag. Could you check each item’s specific size and weight restrictions with your airline?

What are the carry-on luggage size restrictions for American Airlines?

American Airlines typically allows carry-on luggage that measures up to 22 x 14 x 9 inches, including handles and wheels. Could you check their website for the most up-to-date information before your flight?

How can I measure my carry-on luggage to ensure it meets size requirements?

To measure your carry-on luggage, use a measuring tape to check the bag’s dimensions, including handles and wheels. Ensure it is within the size limits set by the airline you are flying with.

Are there weight limits for carry-on bags on United Airlines?

United Airlines typically allows carry-on bags that weigh up to 25 pounds for economy class passengers. Check their website for the most accurate and up-to-date information on weight restrictions.

What items are allowed in a carry-on bag?

Most airlines allow passengers to bring essential items such as laptops, medications, and toiletries in their carry-on bags. However, there are restrictions on items like liquids and sharp objects, so check your airline’s guidelines before you pack.

Can I bring a duffel bag as my carry-on luggage?

Yes, you can typically bring a duffel bag as your carry-on luggage if it meets the airline’s size and weight restrictions. Could you check with the airline beforehand to avoid any issues at the airport?

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6 Best Luggage Items To Take On A Cruise

I f you think luggage is just luggage, no matter where you’re going or what kind of trip you’re taking, it might be time to think again. Especially when it comes to cruising, there are some things to think about regarding your luggage that you don’t need to consider when flying, driving, or taking the train.

The main issue is the space inside most cabins. Anyone who’s been on a cruise knows cabins can be a little on the snug side and you might not have much space to store your luggage. Then there’s the fact that you’ll be spending many of your days on land excursions and you’ll need a suitable bag for the whole day. I’ve taken a look at the best luggage items to take on a cruise, from backpacks for a land excursion to check-in suitcases, and everything in between.

Briggs & Riley Sympatico Medium Expandable Spinner

Perfect for a 7- or 10-day cruise, the Medium Expandable Spinner has some brilliant organizational features. There’s a large zip-around pocket inside, plus two smaller mesh pockets, that make packing much easier. I love how lightweight this case is. It’s nice and spacious and a good size for a cruise, but it’s really easy to maneuver and doesn’t feel cumbersome at all. It glides around on its double-spinner wheels and I found it easy to travel with, even to wheel around an airport and get from taxi to port. It also looks really smart and has a leather personalized patch where you can have your initials monogrammed, so you always know it’s your case.

Favorite Features

• TSA-friendly combination lock
• Adjustable garment compression panels to keep clothing flat
• Expansion and compression system that can increase space by 17 percent
• Strong and durable shell

Craghopper 22-Inch Wheelie 40L

A combination between a carry-on case and a durable bag, the Craghopper Wheelie is perfect for anyone who travels light and for day excursions on land. It’s spacious inside and has two front-zipped compartments that are perfect for a laptop and a tablet. This carry-on is especially great for a cruise as the soft material and shell mean it can be easily stored in your cabin. You can store it with other items on top of it as the fabric and shell provide space for stacking. I love how it looks like a backpack but behaves like a small suitcase.

• Water-repellent
• Padding throughout to protect your items
• Internal organizer pockets
• Cut-resistant safety pocket with RFID protection

Away Flex Suitcase

As it suggests in the name, the Away Flex Suitcase is very flexible. When you unzip the flex feature, it creates an extra 2.25 inches of space, so it’s perfect for leaving room for bringing home souvenirs. Without the flex, it’s a carry-on, and with the flex, it’s a checked case. If you take a larger flex case and the carry-on, you can nest one inside the other in your cabin to save space. What I really love about this case is the little details they’ve added. There’s a handle on the bottom of the case, between the wheels. It might seem like a strange place for a handle, but when you’re at the baggage carousel and you need to pick up your case quickly, it comes in very handy.

• TSA-approved combination lock
• Hidden laundry bag to keep dirty clothes separate
• Durable hardshell
• Black leather luggage tag

Nomatic Travel Pack

The Nomatic Travel Pack is a backpack that packs like a suitcase. If you like to travel light and your cruise is fairly short, you can pack all your items in this pack and carry it like any backpack. It’s a slim and sleek bag, but it’s deceptively spacious inside and expands when you need to fit more in. It has water-bottle holders on each side, like a backpack, but inside it has zip-up sections for packing clothes and a large pocket for shoes or a laptop. If you can pack this light, it’s ideal for a cruise as it doubles as a lightweight backpack for land excursions.

• Water-resistant
• Sunglasses case
• Magnetic water-bottle pockets
• Side handle to carry like a briefcase

Monos Metro Duffel Bag

If you have checked-in luggage, which you probably do for a cruise, this Metro Duffle Bag is a spacious and versatile carry-on bag that works perfectly as a day bag for land excursions. You can travel with it if you’re flying to your port destination and it fits a whole world of items inside it. You can easily get a laptop in the bag and it has lots of great zip compartments and pockets for your passport, water bottle, and even your umbrella if you think you’ll need it. What I really love is the switch system. The bag comes with a metro kit, where you can fit lots of small items, and this attaches and detaches for when you want to take it with you and when you don’t.

• Trolley sleeve that fits around your suitcase handle and keeps all your luggage together
• Vegan leather
• Adjustable, removable shoulder strap

Globe Trotter Safari Trunk

Take it right back to the golden age of glamor travel with this classic-looking trunk . It is definitely the most-spacious luggage on the list and also the most beautiful in design. It’s inspired by the original steamer trunks that were made for the cabins on steamer ships, but unlike classic trunks, this one has four wheels and is easy to move around. It is large, yes, but that means you can pack a lot into it. If you’re lucky enough to have booked a suite on a cruise, you won’t have any trouble storing this trunk. Otherwise, it doubles nicely as a little stand or table.

• Leather corners and straps to protect the trunk
• 100-liter capacity
• Carbon-steel locks
• Each individual case has its own unique serial number.

To continue shopping for your cruise, check out:

• 7 Flattering Swimsuits For Women Over 50
• 5 Reef-Safe Sunscreens To Take On Your Next Beach Vacation
• 21 Essential Pieces You Need For The Perfect Beach Vacation Capsule Wardrobe

This article originally appeared on TravelAwaits