I’m Taking My First Solo Cruise, and These Are the 15 Essentials I’m Packing to Be Ready for Anything

When I first started thinking about creating a cruise packing list for my first solo voyage at sea, I have to admit, I was a little overwhelmed. I want to be prepared for everything the trip throws at me — whether it’s a day of shore excursions, lounging by the pool, or enjoying a fancy dinner on board; my packing list should ultimately enhance my adventure and help me relax. 

Now that I’ve done the research and know what I need to pack (and what I can leave behind), I want to share my top picks for ensuring a smooth sailing experience, so you can spend less time stressing over what to wear and more time enjoying the adventure. I’ve rounded up the 15 travel essentials on my list for solo cruising, including organizational packing hacks, versatile apparel, and comfortable yet stylish shoes — all available at Amazon. 

Etronik Weekend Bag

I recently learned I wouldn’t be able to access my luggage for a few hours when we board the ship on day one, so I needed to pack the essentials in a small bag to keep with me, like a swimsuit, toiletries, sun protection, and a book. This duffel bag is just what I need. It’s spacious yet still light enough to carry around all day. I love the separate compartment for shoes, and the built-in charging port means I can keep my devices charged, too. One reviewer says, “I went on a 7-day cruise and this bag served its purpose fully — from airplane carry-on to pool tote to excursion tote! The separate shoe and wet clothes storage were awesome and extremely useful. Not to mention the color, durability, extra storage, and waterproof exterior were perfect!”

Hotor Hanging Travel Toiletry Bag

My room on board will probably be smaller than Harry Potter’s cupboard, so I know the floor and counter space will be tight. This hanging toiletry bag will be “life-changing” as one reviewer says, noting that it’s particularly ideal for the small confines of a cruise ship room. “Unpacking toiletries is instant and preserves valuable bathroom counter space,” they add. It’ll keep my bathroom essentials organized with its multiple pockets, and the hanging design makes everything accessible without taking up precious space.

OlarHike 10 Set Packing Cubes

If packing light is a struggle for you, I highly recommend using packing cubes. This set of cubes helps keep all your clothes and essentials organized while maximizing space in your suitcase. I like to pack by categories for a cruise, with bags dedicated to evening wear, pool apparel, etc. One reviewer who used them for a cruise says that they fit enough items to change three times a day. “There was still room in my luggage to store more items,” they added.

Teva Unisex Hurricane Drift Sandal

Limiting the number of shoes I pack will be crucial for saving space and simplifying my wardrobe on my cruise — which is a lot easier when you opt for versatile footwear. For poolside days or shore excursions, these Teva waterproof sandals are the perfect choice. Comfortable, durable, and lightweight, they check all the boxes for an active cruise. One reviewer says, “They were perfect for daily walking, excursions, and the beach. They were comfortable, easy to dry off and clean, and they matched well with outfits.”

Travelon Anti-theft Classic Mini Shoulder Bag

Safety and convenience are top priorities when you’re traveling solo, and this Travelon anti-theft bag delivers on both. Designed specifically for travelers, it features lockable zippers, durable straps, and RFID-blocking compartments to keep your valuables safe. Its classic design is versatile and stylish, and its roomy compartments allow you to carry everything you need. One reviewer adds, even with cards, makeup, an Epipen, mints, and medications inside the bag, “it wasn’t bulky at all.”

Dokotoo Casual Short Sleeve Swimsuit Coverup

Can’t wait to spend some time by the pool? Don’t forget to pack a coverup. The best ones are those that can pull double duty, transitioning from day to night with ease. This maxi-length button-down coverup from Dokotoo is a favorite of mine because it serves as a perfect coverup and is easily transformed with a simple belt. Several reviewers say they wore this as both a coverup and a dress for dinners or time in port for their cruise travels.

Prettygarden Maxi Sleeveless V-neck Dress

Chances are your cruise will have some sort of formal evening on board. I struggle with the idea of occupying valuable luggage space for just one night, but this maxi dress could easily be worn for both a formal evening and a day in port. Many reviewers rave about the quality of the fabric and how comfortable the dress is. The best part? It has pockets, making it perfect for stashing your cruise keycard and eliminating an extra clutch or bag for your formal wear onboard. 

Prettygarden 2-piece Set 

A two-piece set is another great way to add some versatility to your cruise wardrobe. The light, gauzy material of this all-occasion Pretty Garden set ensures you stay cool and chic while exploring tropical destinations. You can adjust the tie top for a more cropped or flowy look, while the wide-leg pants add extra comfort. Since wrinkles won’t be a problem with gauzy material, you can easily toss this set in your suitcase without worrying about it looking messy. Pair the bottoms with a cute bodysuit or match the top with skirts or shorts, and you’re left with multiple outfits in one.

Hiearcool Waterproof Phone Pouch

At first, I wondered how likely I’d be to take my phone out on excursions, but then I read about waterproof phone pouches. This pouch keeps your phone safe and dry while still allowing you to use it through the clear, touch-sensitive material. It’s perfect for taking underwater photos, checking your itinerary while on excursions, or just keeping your phone protected when lounging around the pool. Plus, with a secure seal and adjustable lanyard, you can wear it around your neck for easy access throughout your day. With over 78,000 happy five-star customers, I’m confident these pouches will be a game-changer for keeping my phone handy and safe. Better yet, you can snag two pouches for just 10 bucks!

Anrabess Summer Mini Romper Dress

I grabbed one of these rompers last summer, and it quickly became a go-to in my closet — and for good reason. As one reviewer notes, it’s the perfect outfit for a light workout, yet cute enough for a day out. If you’re looking for ways to add some variety to the look, you could layer a tank or T-shirt underneath, or pair the top with wide-leg pants or a skirt. Grab it in a couple of colors (I’m eyeing that vibrant orange or teal myself!) for a few different options.

Under Armour Women’s Charged Assert 9 Running Shoe

I’m not a gym girl, but I want to get some exercise during my cruise — whether it’s walking around the deck or taking an active shore excursion. The Under Armour Women’s Charged Assert 8 Running Shoes are perfect for that. I’ve been an Under Armour footwear fan for years, and this pair’s breathable mesh and foam padding provide plenty of comfort. One reviewer says they put 30 miles on these shoes during a recent cruise and had “no issues.”

Vicki Vicki Women’s Platform Sandals 

I wanted to find sandals that matched my evening outfits and were comfortable enough to be in all night long. Admittedly, I don’t wear heels often, but a good pair of wedges offers the perfect balance by elevating any look without any discomfort. These sandals have a supportive ankle strap and cushioned footbed, making them comfortable for hours of wear while still adding that dressy touch to my evening looks. One reviewer mentioned they’d give these shoes “10 stars” for comfort after wearing them to an event where, at 59 years old, they danced all night. I’m partial to the khaki color with a single-foot strap, but I love that these come in a variety of colors and styles. 

Beautail Collapsible Water Bottle

The last thing I want to worry about is staying hydrated when I’m at port or on excursions, so having a water bottle I can bring along is key. This one holds 18 ounces, and when it’s empty, I can easily collapse it down and stow it away without taking up space in my bag. Plus, it has a leak-proof design. Spending $10 for a water bottle I can fill up on board and bring along for outings (and skip buying overpriced disposable bottles at ports), and store with ease seems like a win to me.

Lillusory Lightweight Sweater 

I’m sure nights on deck can be chilly, even somewhere warm and tropical, so I’m packing a versatile lightweight cardigan for an easy top layer. This cardigan comes in several colors, including plenty of neutral options that will go with just about anything. I’m always partial to an oversized fit, but I also love the functional buttons that allow for different styling options.

Sunlily Roll-n-go Sun Hat

In addition to my favorite sunscreen, I’m always looking for more ways to protect my skin from the sun. A sun hat seems like a must for a cruise, but I know they can also be bulky to pack. The SunLily Roll-n-go Sun Hat offers UPF protection and a wide brim for full coverage. It’s functional, lightweight, and packable, making it perfect for cruising.

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