Cruise Luggage Rules: What You Need to Know Before You Board
Packing for a cruise is an exciting part of the journey, but before you start stuffing your suitcases, it’s important to understand the cruise luggage rules and best practices for embarkation day. From suitcase limits to choosing between checked or carry-on bags, this guide will help ensure a smooth boarding experience.
How Many Bags Can You Bring on a Cruise According to Cruise Baggage Policy
Unlike airlines, cruise lines don’t typically enforce strict baggage limits, but they do recommend that passengers bring no more than two suitcases per person. General guidelines include:
- Suitcase Size & Weight – While there are no set weight restrictions, luggage should be a reasonable size (similar to airline checked baggage) for easy handling by porters and cabin storage.
- Avoid Overpacking – While there’s no weight enforcement, remember that you’ll need to fit your suitcases inside your cabin, so don’t go overboard.
Checking Your Luggage with Porters
If you don’t want to carry heavy bags around, check your luggage at the port when you arrive. Here’s how it works:
- Tag Your Bags – Cruise lines provide luggage tags that must be attached before arrival according to the cruise luggage rules.
- Drop Off with Porters – When you arrive at the terminal, porters will take your luggage for delivery to your stateroom later in the day.
- Tipping Porters – It’s customary to tip $1–$2 per bag to ensure smooth handling.
- Wait for Delivery – Checked bags typically arrive outside your cabin door in the afternoon or early evening.
Choosing to Carry Your Luggage Onboard
If you prefer to carry your own luggage, you can according to the cruise luggage rules, but you’ll need to keep it with you until staterooms open (usually mid-afternoon). This means you’ll have to lug it around as you explore the ship, eat lunch, or relax by the pool.
What to Pack in Your Carry-On Bag
Since checked luggage may not arrive until later, make sure you pack these essentials in your carry-on to maximize your first day:
- Travel Documents – Passport, boarding pass, cruise itinerary
- Medications – Any daily prescriptions you need
- Swimsuit & Flip-Flops – So you can hit the pool immediately
- Sunscreen – If heading to outdoor areas right away
- Phone Charger & Electronics – Keep devices powered throughout the day
- Change of Clothes – If you want to freshen up after boarding
- Cash or Credit Card – For drinks, snacks, or early purchases
Cruise Line Details
Before you start packing for your cruise, it’s essential to check your specific cruise baggage policy to avoid any surprises at embarkation. Each cruise line has its own rules regarding the number of suitcases allowed, weight limits, carry-on restrictions, and prohibited items. Some also offer guidelines on checked luggage handling, porter services, and tips for making embarkation smoother. To ensure you’re fully prepared, you can visit the official luggage policies for Royal Caribbean, Carnival Cruise Line, and other cruise lines using the links below.
- Royal Caribbean
- Carnival Cruise
- MSC Cruises
Final Thoughts About Cruise Baggage Policy
Understanding cruise luggage rules and planning ahead can make embarkation stress-free. Whether you check your bags with porters or carry them on yourself, knowing what to pack and how to handle embarkation logistics will help you start your cruise on the right foot!
Would you rather check your luggage or carry it onboard?
Want to learn about required travel documents to cruise? If yes, check out my blog post: Cruise Travel Documents Checklist: What You Need Before You Sail.
