The Ultimate Disney Cruise Packing Guide (What to Bring, What to Skip, and Pro Tips)

Packing for a Disney Cruise is a little different than packing for any other vacation. Between themed nights, onboard activities, port days, and Disney’s specific rules, it helps to be prepared so you can start your vacation stress-free the moment you step onboard.

This complete Disney Cruise packing guide covers what to pack, what’s prohibited, embarkation day must-haves, and insider tips so nothing catches you by surprise.

For a printable copy of my packing list, click here!

Essentials to Pack for a Disney Cruise

These are the non-negotiables you’ll want in your suitcase or carry-on.

Travel Documents

• Passport or birth certificate (depending on itinerary)

• Government-issued photo ID

• Disney Cruise Line booking confirmation

• Port arrival form (printed or digital)

• Travel insurance documents (highly recommended)

Pro tip: Always pack documents in your carry-on, never checked luggage.

Clothing Basics

• Daytime outfits (think casual, breathable, and comfortable)

• Swimsuits (bring at least two so one can dry)

• Cover-ups for pool decks

• Lightweight jacket or sweater (the ship can feel chilly)

• Sleepwear

• Undergarments and socks

• Comfortable walking shoes

• Flip flops or sandals

Special Disney Cruise Clothing to Plan For

Themed Nights

Depending on your sailing, you may have:

• Pirate Night (costumes encouraged!)

• Marvel Day at Sea

• Star Wars Day at Sea

• Formal or Semi-Formal Night

You do not need to go all out, but a themed shirt or simple costume makes it fun.

Adult-Only Dining

If you plan to dine at Palo or Enchanté:

• Pack dressy attire

• Men: dress pants and collared shirt or jacket

• Women: cocktail dress, dressy jumpsuit, or elegant outfit

What to Pack for Kids

• Multiple swimsuits

• Rash guards (great for sun protection)

• Character costumes (optional but fun)

• Autograph book and pen

• Nightlight (staterooms can be very dark)

• Favorite snacks (sealed and non-perishable)

• Small backpack for kids’ clubs or port days

Embarkation Day Bag: What to Carry On

Your checked luggage may not arrive at your stateroom until later in the afternoon, so this bag is key.

Pack:

• Travel documents and wallet

• Phone and charger

• Medications

• Swimsuits and cover-ups

• Sunglasses and sunscreen

• Change of clothes for kids

• Refillable water bottle

• Lanyard for Key to the World card

• Motion sickness remedies

• Diapers, wipes, or pull-ups if needed

Pro tip: Pack swimsuits in your carry-on so you can head straight to the pool while everyone else waits for their bags.

Toiletries & Health Items

Disney provides basic shampoo and body wash, but you may want:

• Toothbrush and toothpaste

• Hair products

• Sunscreen (reef-safe preferred)

• After-sun lotion

• Motion sickness bands or medication

• Pain relievers

• Hand sanitizer

• Small first-aid kit

Electronics & Useful Extras

• Phone chargers

• Portable battery pack

• Nightlight

• Magnetic hooks (great for organizing small staterooms)

• Over-the-door shoe organizer

• Laundry bag

• Refillable water bottle

• Snorkel gear (if you prefer your own)

Prohibited Items on Disney Cruise Line

Disney Cruise Line is very specific about what is not allowed onboard. Do not pack:

• Power strips or extension cords

• Surge-protected outlets

• Irons or steamers

• Candles or incense

• Weapons or sharp objects

• Illegal drugs or substances

• Drones

• Swim diapers in pools (only allowed in splash zones)

Alcohol Rules

• Guests 21+ may bring:

  • Up to two bottles of wine or champagne

  • OR six beers (12 oz each)

• Alcohol must be carried on, not packed in checked luggage

What You Don’t Need to Pack

Save space and skip:

• Towels (provided onboard and at Castaway Cay)

• Hair dryers (available in staterooms)

• Shampoo and body wash (provided)

• Excess cash (most onboard purchases are charged to your room)

Packing Tips from a Disney Cruise Pro

• Pack outfits by day in packing cubes

• Bring a small crossbody or backpack for port days

• Label luggage clearly

• Download the Disney Cruise Line Navigator app before sailing

• Leave room in your suitcase for souvenirs

• Take photos of important documents just in case

Final Thoughts

Packing smart for a Disney Cruise can make your vacation smoother, more relaxing, and way more magical. When you plan ahead and know Disney’s rules, you’ll spend less time stressing and more time enjoying fireworks at sea, character meet-and-greets, and unlimited soft serve.

If you want a printable Disney Cruise packing checklist or help planning your sailing, I’m always happy to help make your cruise practically perfect.

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