What to Pack for a Disney Cruise: The Basics and a Few Extras to Know About

Rather than serving as a strict checklist, this guide focuses on what to pack for a Disney cruise, combining the cruise items we already rely on with a few Disney-specific additions and reminders that tend to come up when packing for a Disney cruise. Use it as a starting point, apply your own judgment, and tailor it to your ship, itinerary, and travel style.

Pre-Cruise and Embarkation Day Essentials

Passport or required identification

This is the one item you can’t improvise. For U.S. citizens, the required documentation depends on your itinerary.

• On closed-loop cruises (departing from and returning to the same U.S. port), you can sail with a valid U.S. passport, or a government-issued photo ID, PLUS an original state-issued birth certificate. Both are required if you’re not using a passport.
• For international or non-closed-loop itineraries, a valid U.S. passport is required.

Disney recommends traveling with a passport, even on closed-loop sailings. Whatever documents you use, keep them with you on embarkation day — never in checked luggage. For the most up-to-date requirements, see Disney’s official guidance.

Printed boarding documents / Port Arrival Form

After completing online check-in, Disney provides a Port Arrival Form with your arrival time and boarding details. You’ll need this to enter the terminal and begin check-in. Having it easily accessible, either printed, saved to your phone, or added to Apple Wallet, helps keep embarkation moving smoothly. A printed backup can still be helpful if there are phone issues or spotty service at the port.

Disney Cruise Line Navigator app

Download the Disney Cruise Line Navigator app before you leave home. It’s used for check-in details, daily schedules, dining information, onboard messaging, and activity reservations once you’re on the ship. It’s also where you’ll start seeing onboard activities and events populate before embarkation, which adds to the anticipation as your cruise gets closer.

Lanyard for Key to the World card (or a DisneyBand+ if you plan to use one)

Your Key to the World card serves as both your room key and your onboard charge card. A lanyard keeps it accessible, especially on embarkation day.

DisneyBand+ is an optional, extra-cost purchase. You can buy one in advance through your Disney Cruise Line account before sailing or purchase one onboard in select shops. If you plan to use a DisneyBand+, you may not need a lanyard, as the band replaces the card for most onboard uses.

Some cruisers also choose to carry their Key to the World card in a phone wallet, slim card holder, or small pouch instead of a lanyard. Choose whatever feels easiest and most comfortable for you.

Medications (pack in carry-on)

Any daily or as-needed medications should remain with you until your luggage arrives, in case there’s a delay in getting your bags to your stateroom.

Small bills (porters, room service)

Cash isn’t really used on board, but having small bills is helpful for tipping porters, occasional room service, port days, and any extra tipping throughout the cruise. Carry-on or embarkation day bag

Carry-on or embarkation day bag

Your checked luggage may not arrive until later in the day, so bring a embarkation day bag with essentials you’ll need right away. This is the place for items such as medications, travel documents, small bills, a pen, and anything you may need before your stateroom is ready. Many cruisers also include a swimsuit and sunscreen so they can enjoy the ship’s pool shortly after boarding without waiting for their luggage.

Cabin Organization and Storage

Packing cubes

Cabin storage is efficient but compact, and unpacking makes the space feel calmer fast. Packing cubes keep outfits, swimwear, and smaller items organized, so you spend less time rummaging and unpacking, and more time enjoying your cruise.

Magnetic hooks

Disney stateroom walls and doors are metal, which makes magnetic hooks surprisingly useful. They’re perfect for hats, lanyards, lightweight bags, and even damp swimsuits that need to dry after a pool or island day.

Over-the-door organizer or hanging toiletry organizer

Cabins don’t have a lot of flat surfaces, and small items add up quickly. An over-the-door organizer or a hanging toiletry organizer helps keep shoes, sunscreen, toiletries, and odds and ends easy to grab, rather than scattered everywhere.

Collapsible laundry hamper or laundry bag

Cruise days blur together fast, and dirty clothes pile up quicker than expected. A collapsible hamper or laundry bag keeps everything contained without taking up space when it’s empty. It also makes it easier to carry laundry to the self-service laundry rooms on board, which Disney ships offer for washing clothes during your cruise.

Zip-top Waterproof bags

These always end up getting used. Zip-top or resealable plastic bags are handy for wet swimsuits, leaky sunscreen, snacks, or corralling small items you don’t want loose in your bag.

Travel nightlight

Staterooms can get very dark at night. A small nightlight makes it easier to move around without turning on overhead lights and waking everyone. Some cruisers prefer a motion-sensor version, but a basic plug-in works just as well.

Clothespins

Disney stateroom bathrooms have a retractable clothesline in the shower area. Clothespins are useful for securing swimsuits or lightweight items so they dry more quickly between pool or beach days, especially when hanging multiple items. They’re also handy if you want to air-dry a few things in your cabin and skip a trip to the laundry room altogether.

Magnetic dry-erase board (optional)

Some cruisers like using a small magnetic whiteboard for practical and fun reasons, especially when traveling in groups or with family. It can be helpful for jotting down daily plans or show times from the Navigator app, leaving notes for others in your stateroom, or keeping track of reminders throughout the day. It’s completely optional, but a simple way to keep everyone on the same page without constantly checking phones.

Drinks and Drinkware

Refillable water bottle

Bottled water on Disney cruise ships is an extra cost unless you carry your own onboard. Disney provides water stations throughout their cruise ships, and fountain soda is included with your cruise fare. Having a refillable water bottle makes it easy to stay hydrated throughout the day, from the pool deck and shows to port days off the ship.

Insulated tumbler or coffee mug

If you like your coffee hot or your drinks cold, an insulated tumbler or mug is worth packing. It’s convenient for refilling the included coffee at the beverage stations or when you order room service, and easy to carry around the ship throughout the day.

Wine, beer, or bottled water (carry-on only, within Disney Cruise Line limits)

Disney Cruise Line allows guests 21+ to bring a limited amount of wine or beer onboard, and guests of any age may also bring bottled water. All beverages must be packed in your carry-on bag, not checked luggage. This can be a convenient option if you prefer to have drinks available in your stateroom without purchasing them on board.

Note: If you bring your own wine, you can enjoy it in your stateroom or on your verandah at a additional charge. If you choose to have a personal bottle opened and served in a main dining room or specialty restaurant, Disney Cruise Line charges a corkage fee per bottle.

Wine bottle opener (if bringing wine)

If you plan to bring wine, pack a bottle opener. Standard staterooms do not include one, and it’s easier to have your own than to track one down later.

Toiletries & Personal Items

(This list focuses on cruise-specific reminders rather than everyday basics like toothpaste or deodorant. Disney provides basic shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and lotion.)

Reef-safe sunscreen

Sunny days around the ship and in port will require reef-safe sunscreen, and I’m a big proponent of bringing your own. The options sold on board tend to be pricey and, in my experience, don’t perform as well. Pack it in advance or pick it up before you board the ship. 

SPF lip balm

Lips are easy to forget, but they’re just as exposed to the sun as everything else. An SPF lip balm is a small thing that makes a big difference after long days outside, especially on sea days and island stops.

After-sun or moisturizer

After long days in the sun, a good moisturizer or aloe vera gel helps soothe skin and keeps you comfortable for the rest of the cruise. We love this brand, Maui Vera.

Motion sickness remedies

Even if you don’t usually get motion sickness, it’s worth having something on hand just in case. Sea conditions can change, and it’s easier to be prepared. Include it in your first aid kit.

First aid kit and over-the-counter meds

A small first-aid kit is always worth carrying. Nothing fancy, just band-aids, blister care, and a few over-the-counter medications you normally use, like pain relievers, anti-diarrhea, and allergy meds. Between walking the ship, port days, and sandals that suddenly turn on you, little things happen.

Disney ships do have a medical center, but it’s much easier to handle minor issues yourself than to track something down onboard or pay ship prices for basics.

Wrinkle release spray

Wrinkle-release spray is a travel must because irons and steamers aren’t allowed on board cruise ships. You can visit the laundry room to press clothes if needed, but for those moments you don’t want to make the trip, a quick spritz before hanging can help clothes look a bit more presentable.

Laundry detergent

I always pack laundry detergent on every cruise. This can be a small amount for hand-washing items in the sink, or a few Tide Pods from home or laundry detergent sheets if you plan to use the self-service laundry rooms onboard. Disney ships do sell single-use detergent and fabric softener in the laundry rooms, but bringing your own can save a few dollars and provide a backup option in case.

Tide pen or stain remover

Never travel without one. A Tide pen has saved more outfits than I can count from small spills or splashes that would otherwise be done for. It takes up almost no space and comes in handy more often than you’d expect.

Tech and Electronics

Charging cables

Charging cables are easy to overlook until you’re suddenly short one. Between phones, cameras, e-readers, earbuds, or anything else you plan to use onboard, make sure you pack the right cables so everything stays charged without rationing battery by dinnertime.

USB charging station or power outlet extender

Stateroom outlets can be limited, though newer ships may have additional power outlets and USB ports. It’s always a good idea to do a bit of research on your specific ship before you cruise. That said, we always travel with a USB charging station at a minimum. On some trips, we pack a USB charging station and an additional power outlet. It makes charging multiple devices easier without worrying about outlet availability.

Portable charger or power bank

Don’t travel without packing a portable charger. Phone batteries only last so long when you’re happily taking vacation photos, videos, and checking the Navigator app throughout the day. Having one fully charged and easy to grab saves you from hunting for an outlet or returning to the cabin just to recharge.

Camera gear

What you bring in terms of camera gear really depends on you. For some people, a phone is sufficient. Others prefer having an extra camera in hand. At a minimum, I always bring a waterproof camera, like a GoPro, for port days, especially for beach stops or water excursions. If you’re bringing extra gear, don’t forget the basics that go with it, such as memory cards, batteries, chargers, and any mounts or accessories you plan to use.

Headphones or earbuds

These aren’t essential, but I’m always glad to have them. If you’re an introvert like me, they make it easier to enjoy being around the ship without needing constant noise. They’re great for sitting on deck, people-watching, or relaxing by the pool with your own music or an audiobook. They’re also just good cruise etiquette. Playing music or videos out loud on speakers isn’t great form on board, even if you’re sitting alone on your verandah.

Optional: e-readers or tablets are a matter of personal preference and how much you plan to disconnect once you’re onboard.

Port Days and Island Stops

Packable beach bag, backpack, or waterproof bag

You’ll want a bag for port days to carry the essentials off the ship. This can be a beach bag, a packable backpack, or a waterproof bag if you’re heading somewhere wet. What works best depends on the port and your tasks for the day.

Sunglasses

Sunglasses are easy to forget. Toss them into your travel stuff. You won’t regret it later, and you won’t find yourself buying overpriced, low-quality ones on the ship.

A Hat or Visor

A hat provides an additional layer of sun protection during port days and island stops. It’s especially helpful during excursions or long walks where shade isn’t always guaranteed.

Water shoes (port-dependent)

It’s nice to have water shoes available for rocky beaches, water-based excursions, or ports where you’ll be in and out of the water. Depending on your itinerary during your Disney Cruise, they may be worth packing.

Waterproof phone pouch

The waterproof phone pouch is an easy and cheap way to keep your phone safe and attached to you during water-related excursions or at the beach. While the GoPro may be my go-to, the phone is the next best camera to have with you. While many phones are water-resistant, it is not foolproof.

Small dry bag (optional)

A small dry bag is great if you plan to snorkel or spend time in the water and don’t want to leave important items behind. You can stuff it with your phone, room key, or a bit of cash, those small valuables you don’t want to leave on a beach. It also keeps items dry during water-based excursions.

Optional Disney Extras

(Fun additions, not must-haves.)

Theme nights to dress for

Pirate Night (the most common Disney theme night)
If you want to lean into the fun, pack a pirate-themed outfit or a few accessories. This can be as simple as a shirt, earrings, or bandana, or as elaborate as a full costume. Disney does provide pirate bandanas onboard, so you don’t need to pack anything elaborate unless you really want to.

Formal and semi-formal nights (on most 7-night sailings)
Disney typically includes both a formal night and a semi-formal night on longer itineraries. These are optional and very relaxed by cruise standards. Some guests dress up for photos, others stick with cruise casual. You’ll see everything from sundresses and button-downs to more polished outfits. There’s no pressure to go fancy unless you want to.

Disney merch (optional)

If you already own Disney merch, mouse ears, themed accessories, or t-shirts from past park trips, feel free to pack them. It’s a fun way to embrace the Disney spirit on board, especially for photos or themed nights. This isn’t about going all out or buying anything new. It’s just about making a little effort to join in if that’s your thing.

If you don’t already have Disney items, there are plenty of affordable options you can grab outside the parks, like simple ears or themed accessories, without spending a ton. And of course, Disney Cruise Line also sells exclusive merchandise onboard for each ship and sailing, so you may end up finding something you love once you’re there anyway.

Disney pins

Pin trading is a small but fun part of the Disney cruise experience. Cast members wear lanyards with pins, and guests can trade with them around the ship. If this sounds fun to you, bring a few pins along to trade. It’s easy to skip if it’s not your thing, but it can be a simple way to join in, especially on sea days. Bring pins you already own, or pick some up before your cruise, rather than buying them on board.

Door magnets or decorations

Decorating stateroom doors isn’t exclusive to Disney cruises, but it’s especially popular among Disney cruisers. You’ll see a lot of decorated doors as you walk the halls, which makes it feel like more of a “thing” on Disney sailings.

Cabin doors are magnetic, so magnets are easy to use and remove. Some people go all out, others keep it simple with one or two designs. It’s optional, but it makes your door easier to spot in long hallways and adds a bit of extra fun.

Fish Extender (if participating)

Fish Extenders are an optional gift exchange that requires advance participation, usually arranged through online groups for your specific sailing. Guests who join hang a fabric organizer outside their stateroom door and exchange small gifts with others in their assigned group. If you’ve already signed up, make sure you pack your Fish Extender along with any small gifts so nothing gets forgotten. If you haven’t joined, this is easy to skip and completely optional.

Autograph book

If character meet-and-greets are on your list, an autograph book is worth packing. Both Disney adults and children can participate, and characters do sign autographs onboard. Having a book ready makes those moments easier, especially if you plan to stop for photos.

This is completely optional and easy to skip if character interactions aren’t a priority for you. If you already have an autograph book from a past Disney trip, it works just fine. There’s no need to buy anything special unless you want to.