What Should You Pack for Your First Family Cruise with Carnival? Kailey's Travel Treasures Has You Covered!

Kailey McEwen
Feb 2
5 min read

Updated: Feb 5

Taking your family on a cruise can be one of the most exciting adventures you've ever experienced together. With stunning ocean views, delicious food, and countless activities, a cruise offers a fantastic opportunity to bond and create lasting memories. But knowing what to pack can be challenging, especially with so many details to manage. Whether it's your first voyage with Carnival or you're a seasoned traveler, this guide covers the essentials you'll need for a smooth and enjoyable family cruise.

Essentials for Every Family Member

Before diving into specifics, start with a list of basic necessities that each family member will need. This list includes not just clothing, but also items to keep everyone entertained and comfortable throughout the trip.

Don't forget personal items like toiletries, medications, and comfort items such as favorite stuffed animals for younger kids. Aim for a balance between practicality and fun!

Clothing for Both Indoor and Outdoor Fun

When cruising, you will experience various activities, from lounging by the pool to dining at elegant restaurants. Here’s a packing guide for clothing:

Swimwear: Pack at least two swimsuits per family member. This allows for continuous fun at the pool, with options for water slides available on many Carnival ships.
Layered Clothing: The cruise environment can shift from warm afternoons to cooler evenings. Bring layers such as light sweaters and a light jacket. For example, Miami’s temperatures may hover around 80°F during the day but drop to 65°F at night.
Dinner Attire: Many cruises feature themed nights and upscale dining. For these occasions, packing one or two dressy outfits per person—like a fancy dress or a collared shirt—adds a special touch to dinner.
Casual Wear: Comfortable clothing is key for daily activities. Pack shorts, t-shirts, and comfortable shoes for family excursions. The Caribbean sun can be intense, so breathable fabrics are essential.

Having a mix of outfits will help accommodate the different moods and weather conditions you may encounter during the trip.

Footwear for All Activities

Selecting the right footwear is crucial for maximizing your cruise experience. You will want shoes that are suitable for a variety of planned activities:

Comfortable Walking Shoes: Essential for family excursions on land. Opt for supportive sneakers that can endure extensive walking. For example, during a port visit to Cozumel, you may walk several miles exploring the area.
Flip-Flops: Ideal for the pool or deck, flip-flops are lightweight and easy to pack. They are perfect for quick trips to grab snacks or walk along the promenade.
Dress Shoes: Bring along a pair of nice shoes for formal dining nights or special onboard events. A pair of closed-toe shoes can be suitable for both dinner and excursions.

Having a well-rounded selection of footwear will enhance your enjoyment whether you are lounging about or exploring new ports.

Health and Hygiene Products

Keeping your family healthy and hygienic while traveling is essential. Here are must-have items to pack:

Sunscreen: Shield everyone’s skin from harmful UV rays, especially if you plan to spend time outdoors. A broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher is recommended.
Mosquito Repellent: If your cruise includes warmer climates or stops in tropical locations, a reliable mosquito repellent can prevent unwanted bites.
Basic Medications: It's crucial to have prescription medications packed, along with over-the-counter items such as pain relievers and motion sickness tablets. Up to 30% of cruise-goers report experiencing seasickness at some point during their trip.
Toiletries: Pack essential items like toothbrushes, toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, and any other personal care items. Consider travel-sized products for space-saving.

By staying prepared with health and hygiene essentials, you can handle any situation that might arise during your cruise.

Fun and Entertainment Options

Although cruises provide plenty of onboard activities, you may want to fill downtime with some extra entertainment for the family. Consider these:

Travel Games: Compact board games or card games can make for fun family time during sea days or relaxing evenings in your cabin. Popular choices include Uno and Travel Scrabble.
Kids’ Activities: Coloring books, puzzles, or travel-friendly toys can keep younger children engaged when they need a break from formal activities.
Books or E-readers: For some quiet time, reading can be a great way to relax. Whether it's a thrilling mystery or a family favorite, bring a selection that everyone will enjoy.
Tablet or Smartphone: Pre-download movies or games for family entertainment. Just ensure your cruise line offers Wi-Fi for social media sharing or streaming.

Keeping your family entertained enhances the cruise experience and makes it enjoyable for all ages!

Important Documents and Tech Gadgets

Packing essential documents and gadgets is crucial for ensuring a smooth travel experience:

Passports and IDs: Verify that each family member has proper identification and required travel documents. Some destinations may require specific visas, so be prepared.
Cruise Documents: Bring printed copies of your booking confirmation, excursion tickets, and any other documents required for easy boarding.
Chargers: Don’t forget chargers for phones, tablets, and cameras to capture unforgettable memories. Consider bringing a portable charger for days spent off the ship.
Travel Insurance Information: Investing in travel insurance is a wise choice. Keep a printed copy handy in case of emergencies, with policies covering common issues such as trip cancellations.

Being organized with your documentation ensures you avoid last-minute surprises during your cruise.

Eye-level view of colorful swimwear hanging on a rack — Colorful swimwear for a summer cruise

Snacks and Drinks

While onboard food options abound, packing a few snacks can be a lifesaver, especially for young kids or picky eaters:

Non-perishable Snacks: Energy bars, nuts, or dried fruits are perfect for excursions or late-night cravings. A survey revealed that families often enjoy a snack stash to avoid excessive costs onboard.
Reusable Water Bottles: Staying hydrated is essential. Pack a few reusable bottles to fill up throughout the day. Many ships offer water stations, so it's easy to refill.

Before packing any food items, check with your cruise line for policies regarding what can be taken onboard to avoid any surprises.

Setting Sail for Adventure

Packing for your family’s first cruise might seem daunting at first glance, but with a comprehensive plan and a thoughtful list, you're sure to have an amazing time. Carnival cruises are packed with fun and adventure, from delicious dining options to thrilling activities. Just be sure you’re ready with everything needed to enjoy the magic of the ocean together.

With this guide from Kailey's Travel Treasures, you are well-equipped to begin your unforgettable journey. Bon voyage!