Your cruise is finally here. You have checked your larger suitcase, made it through the terminal and stepped onto the ship—but your luggage may not arrive at your cabin for several hours.

That is why packing a cruise carry-on bag is so important.

Your carry-on should contain everything you need from the moment you arrive at the terminal until your checked luggage is delivered. Packing it correctly can make embarkation day much easier, especially if you are taking your first cruise.

As I get ready to board MSC Seascape for my first MSC cruise, here is what I recommend keeping with you on embarkation day.

Your passport or identification

Never place your passport, birth certificate, driver’s license or other required travel documents inside your checked luggage.

You will need these documents to enter the cruise terminal and complete the boarding process. Keep them somewhere secure but easy to reach.

Before leaving home, confirm which documents your cruise line requires for your particular sailing. Requirements can vary based on your itinerary, citizenship and whether your cruise begins and ends at the same United States port.

Cruise documents and boarding information

Most cruise lines now allow you to access your boarding pass through their mobile app, but I still recommend having a backup.

Save screenshots of your boarding pass and other important information before arriving at the port. Cell service can be unreliable inside a busy cruise terminal, and you do not want to be searching for a signal while standing in the boarding line.

You may also want to carry a printed copy of your boarding documents.

Prescription medications

All prescription medications should remain in your carry-on bag.

Bring enough medication for the entire trip, plus a little extra in case your return is delayed. You should also keep any medications you may need during the day readily available.

Do not place essential medications in luggage that will be taken by a porter. Even though most checked bags arrive without a problem, you should never risk being separated from something medically necessary.

A swimsuit and sunscreen

Your cruise vacation begins as soon as you board the ship. Pools, waterslides and other outdoor attractions may be open before your cabin is ready.

Pack a swimsuit in your carry-on if you want to start enjoying the pool immediately. You can wear it under your clothes or change in a public restroom.

Do not forget sunscreen, sunglasses and a cover-up. You may spend more time outside than expected while exploring the ship or watching sailaway.

A change of clothes

Checked luggage is usually delivered later in the afternoon or early evening, but delivery times can vary.

Include a lightweight change of clothes in your carry-on. This is especially helpful if you are flying to the cruise port on embarkation day, although I strongly recommend arriving at least one day before your cruise whenever possible.

A fresh shirt, clean undergarments and basic toiletries can make a big difference if your luggage takes longer than expected to reach your cabin.

Your phone charger or portable battery

Embarkation day can drain your phone battery quickly.

You may use your phone to access your boarding pass, complete safety requirements, view the ship’s schedule, make dining reservations, take pictures and communicate with your travel companions.

Keep a charging cable and portable battery with you so you are not searching the ship for an available outlet.

Valuable items

Jewelry, cash, credit cards, cameras, tablets and other valuables should remain with you.

Do not place expensive or irreplaceable items inside luggage that will be left with a porter. Your carry-on should stay with you until you can place these belongings securely inside your cabin.

Cruise-approved beverages

Some cruise lines allow guests to bring a limited amount of bottled water, soda or wine onboard. Other cruise lines have different restrictions.

Check your cruise line’s current beverage policy before packing anything. Pay attention to the permitted quantity, container type and whether beverages must be carried onboard rather than placed in checked luggage.

Policies can change, so do not assume the rules from your last cruise still apply.

Items needed for children

If you are cruising with children, pack anything they may need during the first several hours onboard.

This might include diapers, wipes, formula, snacks, a change of clothes, comfort items, headphones or a small activity.

Embarkation day can involve lines, waiting and unfamiliar surroundings. Having a few familiar items available can make the experience easier for everyone.

Anything you need for your first evening

Think about what you have planned before your checked luggage may arrive.

If you have an early specialty dining reservation, bring the clothing you plan to wear. If you want to exercise, pack your workout clothes. If you plan to film content, keep your camera equipment and accessories with you.

Your first evening should not depend on your suitcase arriving at a particular time.

What not to put in your carry-on

Your carry-on should contain essentials, but it should still be manageable.

You may have to carry it through the terminal, take it to lunch and keep it with you while exploring the ship. Cabins are not always available immediately after boarding.

Choose a comfortable backpack, tote or small rolling bag. Avoid packing so much that carrying it becomes the most memorable part of embarkation day.

A simple cruise carry-on checklist

Before leaving for the terminal, make sure your carry-on contains:

Passport or required identification
Boarding documents
Prescription medications
Wallet and credit cards
Phone and charger
Portable battery
Swimsuit and cover-up
Sunscreen and sunglasses
A change of clothes
Essential toiletries
Valuable electronics
Items needed for children
Anything required for your first evening

A well-packed carry-on allows you to begin enjoying your cruise without worrying about when your suitcase will arrive.

Once you board, you can grab lunch, explore the ship, take pictures and settle into vacation mode knowing your most important belongings are right beside you.

Planning your first cruise or trying to decide which ship is right for you? Sea Life with Stacy can help you compare your options and plan a cruise that fits your family, travel style and budget.

What to Pack in Your Cruise Carry-On Bag