One of the easiest ways to blow your cruise budget is by forgetting essentials that cost triple once you’re at sea. While cruise ships offer convenience, that convenience often comes at a premium—whether it’s a forgotten sunscreen bottle or a replacement for your dead phone charger. Smart packing ensures you’re not forced to overspend on items you could have easily brought from home.

Here’s how to pack efficiently and save money while enjoying your cruise to the fullest.

Don’t Skip These Day-One Essentials

You may not receive your checked luggage until hours after boarding, so pack a small carry-on bag with:

• A swimsuit and cover-up
  
• Travel-sized sunscreen
  
• Medications and seasickness remedies
  
• ID and cruise documents
  

Purchasing sunscreen, motion sickness bands, or swimwear from the ship’s boutique will cost significantly more than bringing your own.

Bring a Refillable Water Bottle

While cruise ships offer water and drinks at meal times, bottled water is often not included unless you’ve purchased a beverage package. A reusable water bottle is perfect for staying hydrated on board and during shore excursions. Many cruisers also bring electrolyte packets to add flavor and aid hydration.

Pack Power Strips (Without Surge Protectors)

Cabins often have limited outlets, and bringing a non-surge-protected power strip can help you charge all your devices. Surge protectors are usually prohibited by cruise lines, so check your cruise line’s policy in advance Carnival and Royal Caribbean both list banned items.

Avoid Onboard Pharmacy Prices

Cruise ships stock a basic selection of over-the-counter medications, but the markup is steep. Be sure to pack:

• Pain relievers
  
• Cold or allergy meds
  
• Antacids
  
• Band-aids and antiseptic wipes
  
• Bug spray (especially for tropical ports)
  

If you’re shopping for these items beforehand, consider stacking deals by purchasing through cashback platforms like Rakuten or Ibotta. These apps often reward purchases from stores like Walgreens, Target, and Walmart.

Bring Your Own Snorkel or Beach Gear

If your itinerary includes beach-heavy destinations, bringing snorkel sets, water shoes, and towels can save you from rental fees in port or overpriced ship gear. You can find affordable, packable options on Amazon or Decathlon.

Don’t Forget Cruise-Specific Items

• Magnetic hooks: Cruise cabin walls are metal, so these are useful for hanging hats, towels, or lanyards.
  
• Lanyard with ID holder: Useful for keeping your keycard accessible at all times.
  
• Light jacket or sweater: Even in warm climates, ships can be chilly at night or in theaters.
  

Skip the Gift Shop Temptations

Many onboard purchases—like jewelry, souvenirs, or toiletries—are impulse-driven. Pre-packing ensures you only spend on what you truly want. If you do plan to buy a few gifts or branded cruise merchandise, check if your cruise line offers gift cards with cashback through apps like Fluz. Buying a Carnival gift card with cashback or earning rewards with a Royal Caribbean gift card through Fluz is a smart way to offset onboard expenses. 

The Bottom Line

Packing smart for your cruise isn’t just about convenience—it’s a proven way to protect your budget. A little preparation goes a long way when it means avoiding inflated prices on common items. Stock up before you sail, and look for ways to maximize your purchases through cashback platforms to make your vacation both smooth and affordable.