It’s finally almost here! Your upcoming first Disney Cruise is just around the corner. But before you can properly set sail, you need to make sure you have everything packed away that you’ll need. After all, when it comes to a magical vacation, forgetting something is the last thing you must worry about. Don’t have a list? No problem! Here is an extensive Disney Cruise packing list that you’ll want to check out!
Important Documents
Besides your driver’s license, ensure that you also bring your passports and any other important documents you may need for your trip.
A Lanyard
You’ll have a much easier time keeping all of your important documents safe and secure with you when you have a lanyard around your neck. You may want to think about going with one that’s waterproof. When you become a repeat Disney cruiser they will actually provide on for you.
Don’t Go Overboard with Clothes
Keep in mind that you don’t necessarily have to pack enough clothing to last for the entire cruise. Disney provides laundry facilities on all their ships that only require a minimal fee. But you can always pack extra travel-size laundry detergent pods and dryer sheets if you’d like. Some of the clothing essentials you’ll need to include:
- Sunglasses
- Hat
- T-shirts
- Tank tops
- Shorts
- Sun dresses
- A light jacket
- Sweater
- Socks and underwear
- Pajamas
- Formal clothing for Formal Night (Dress pants and collared shirts for men, while women have the option of wearing a skirt, dress, or pants with a blouse)
- Pirate Night attire
Bring More than One Bathing Suit
Putting on a wet swimsuit is never a fun experience no matter how old you are. With that said, remember to bring an extra bathing suit for each family member so everyone can stay comfortable and dry when walking around on the ship. And for all of you ladies, a bathing suit coverup would also be a great item to bring with you.
Pack Your Child’s Favorite Disney Character Costume
Make your Disney cruise an even more magical experience for your children by surprising them with a costume of their favorite Disney character. And don’t forget, your little princess will absolutely adore her whimsical makeover when you make an appointment with the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique.
Bring 3 Different Pairs of Shoes
When it comes to shoes for your cruise, it’s best that you don’t try to stuff your luggage with every last pair you own. I’d recommend that you bring a pair of flip-flops, a pair of sneakers, and a nice pair of dress shoes. Nothing more, nothing less.
A Day Bag
Whether you’re visiting a port or just relaxing on a beach somewhere, you’ll be glad to have packed a day bag that you can bring along all your little necessities.
Don’t Forget about Motion Sickness Medicine
There’s always a slight chance that you may not feel well on your first day aboard any one of Disney’s cruises. Motion sickness isn’t something I’d wish on anybody, so don’t let that happen to you. Dramamine and Sea Bands may be your closest friends for the next few days, or at least while you’re out on the ocean.
Sunscreen
You don’t want the sun to be the culprit for ruining a perfectly good vacation. You’ll be spending a lot of time out in the sun so don’t leave home without packing plenty of sunscreen.
Personal Toiletries
Disney already conveniently provides a number of personal toiletries that your family will need, such as shampoo and conditioner, lotion, and aloe vera. But don’t forget to bring a toothbrush and toothpaste, deodorant, razor, body wash/soap, feminine hygiene products, hairspray/hair gel, hair brushes or combs, baby powder, makeup, and makeup remover wipes.
And also don’t forget to bring along any prescriptions or over-the-counter medications you may need while on vacation.
Entertainment
Disney cruises offer a plethora of entertainment options for its passengers but it’s always nice to have some backup activities just in case there’s a little downtime. Pack a few books or magazines for mom and dad along with some coloring books or small toys for your children. And if you have a tablet, laptop, or e-reader, make sure to bring that along as well.
Multiport Charger
There are just a few outlets available in your room, and if you have several devices to charge every evening, you’ll be glad to bring along a multiport charger to handle the job.
Magnetic Door Decor
When I heard of this I thought it was silly. But all of the cabin doors look the same. Having personalized door art will help your children easily identify your cabin. You can order Disney magnets, or make your own. There are printable magnet sheets available to easily create your own.
Before you set out on your cruise, be sure to have downloaded the Disney Cruise Line Navigator App onto your phone. This will help you keep track of all the activities and events happening on board, as well as giving the ability to make dinner reservations, view menus, and check wait times at various restaurants. It’s completely free and definitely worth downloading before your voyage sets sail. This is a MUST for a Disney Cruise packing list, “technology-wise.”
Alcohol is Permitted
As long as you are 21 years old, Disney allows you to bring alcohol onboard. You’re permitted up to 2 bottles of wine and 6 bottles of beer that you’ll personally need to carry. Alcohol is not allowed tucked away in checked luggage. You can then restock as you go at each port of call that you visit. You are also allowed to enjoy one of your bottles of wine at dinner but there is a corking fee so remember to bring your own corkscrew.
Insider Tip: We also brought a case of water on board and were very happy to have that cooling in the fridge rather than getting water from the soda machines.
Snorkeling Gear
For those of you that plan on snorkeling at Castaway Cay, you can save yourselves a bunch of money by bringing your own snorkels and goggles. It’s an experience you and your family won’t want to miss. There are over 22 acres of underwater adventure just waiting for you to explore!
Camera gear
Rest assured that you’re going to be making tons of memories no matter which Disney cruise you end up on. So don’t forget to bring a camera or your GoPro along with all of the right gear to capture some of those amazing moments. You’ll also want to pack charging cords and battery chargers as well.
Luggage
Look up your ship. But most have space under the beds to store luggage. So, I wouldn’t worry too much about over packing.
More Disney Cruise Tips:
- Disney Cruise Pirate Night Guide: What to Know Before You Go
- Why Our Family Will Take Another Disney Cruise
- Ultimate Guide to Disney Cruises
And there you have everything you need to pack for an amazing Disney cruise! I can personally promise you that it will be the trip of a lifetime and one that your family will never forget. What do you plan on including in your Disney Cruise packing list?
