Planning what to bring on your Celebrity Cruise vacation? This Celebrity Cruise packing list highlights what’s actually worth remembering for their modern ships. After sailing with Celebrity multiple times, we’ve learned a few things that set them apart—like better in-cabin amenities, thoughtful touches, and a more polished onboard experience. Some cruise essentials remain the same, but others can stay home thanks to what Celebrity already includes.
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Cruising with Celebrity feels a bit more elevated, and that can change what’s worth packing. Along with a few must-haves from our cruise essentials list, this Celebrity Cruise packing list highlights the items that make the most sense for a Celebrity sailing, based on what we’ve found helpful over multiple cruises.
What is on your Celebrity Cruise packing list? Let us know in the comments.
Before You Sail Essentials
1. Download the Celebrity Cruises App
The Celebrity Cruises app makes check-in simple. You can upload your photo, complete all the pre-cruise steps, and have your boarding pass ready before you even arrive at the terminal. I still like to print out my check-in papers, but having the app ready to go on embarkation day makes things quick.
Once on board, you’ll use it to see daily activities, make dining reservations, and manage your onboard account. On the newer Edge-series ships, like the Celebrity Beyond, you can even adjust your stateroom lights and temperature right from your phone.
2. Passport or Government ID
Celebrity Cruises sails to many international destinations, so a valid passport is always the best option. For round-trip cruises that begin and end in the same U.S. port, U.S. citizens can board with a government-issued photo ID and an original or certified copy of their birth certificate. Still, I always travel with my passport because it’s easier if plans change or you need to fly home from a foreign port. Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your sailing date.
Keep your passport, ID, boarding pass, and the credit card linked to your onboard account with you at the terminal in your cruise embarkation bag so they’re easy to reach when it’s time to check in. You’ll need all of it when you meet with the Celebrity staff. Non-U.S. citizens should verify entry and visa requirements for their itinerary before sailing.
3. Printed Luggage Tags
Celebrity requires you to print your luggage tags at home after completing online check-in. Slip them into plastic luggage tag holders if you have them, or staple them securely to your suitcase handle before heading to the port. As a backup, I always place a sheet with our name, email, and cruise details inside each bag in case the outer tag comes off.
4. AirTags or Luggage Trackers
We travel with AirTags on every cruise, and Celebrity is no exception. If your luggage gets delayed or separated at the port, being able to see exactly where it is brings instant peace of mind. I usually check them a few times that first day until everything’s safely in the cabin.
Our Favorite Luggage for Flights and Cruises
We’ve been using the AWAY Bigger Carry-On for about two years now, and it’s traveled with us on 20+ flights and multiple cruises without a single issue. It’s easily the most reliable luggage we’ve owned — durable, smooth wheels, and it somehow fits everything we need for a week away. The lifetime warranty doesn’t hurt either.
[→Shop the AWAY Bigger Carry-On]
Cabin Organization and Tech Essentials
5. Lanyard/Card Holder
Your SeaPass card is used to open your stateroom door, make purchases, and scan on and off the ship. A lanyard with a plastic sleeve keeps it handy without risking damage, since cruise lines don’t allow you to punch a hole in the card anymore. If you’d rather not wear it, a card holder that attaches to the back of your phone is another easy option and keeps your card close without adding bulk.
6. USB Charging Station
If you’re sailing on one of Celebrity’s older ships, you’ll find limited outlets in the cabin, so a USB charging hub can come in handy. On the Edge-series ships, there are plenty of built-in USB and USB-C ports, so you may be able to skip the need for additional charging or bring something smaller. Either way, make sure any power adapter you pack is USB-only and not a surge protector, since surge devices aren’t allowed on board.
Tip: Before your trip, look up your specific ship and cabin on YouTube or in reviews. It’s an easy way to see how many outlets are in the room before you pack.
7. Extra Outlet or Adapter
If you’re sailing on one of Celebrity’s older ships, outlets can be limited, and you may find one European-style socket in addition to the standard U.S. plugs. I like to pack a small non-surge outlet extender or universal adapter so we can charge an extra device or two without juggling cords. The Edge-series ships have plenty of outlets and USB ports, so you might not need it there, but it’s still nice to have just in case.
8. Magnetic Hooks
Celebrity cabin walls are metal, which makes magnetic hooks a small but super handy addition. I use them to hang hats, wet swimsuits, tote bags, or lanyards. They help keep things off the limited counter and floor space, and make the cabin feel more organized.
9. Over-the-Door Toiletry Organizer
Bathroom counter space fills up fast, especially if you’re sharing the cabin. An over-the-door toiletry organizer keeps everything within reach without cluttering the sink area. I hang ours on the bathroom door, and it stays neat for the entire cruise.
10. Travel Nightlight
Celebrity cabins get dark once the lights are off, and if you wake up in the middle of the night, finding the bathroom switch can be tricky. A small travel nightlight or a few battery tea lights give just enough light to move around safely without disturbing anyone else.
11. Packing Cubes
Unpacking on a Celebrity cruise is quick when you use packing cubes. The drawers and shelves are nicely designed but not overly spacious, so keeping your clothes sorted in cubes makes it easy to slide them right in and stay organized for the week.
12. Laundry Bag
Celebrity doesn’t have self-serve laundry rooms, so a foldable laundry bag helps keep dirty clothes separate until you send them out for washing or repack at the end of your cruise. Celebrity offers wash-and-fold laundry specials mid-cruise, which are worth taking advantage of. Whatever I don’t get to send out in the wash and fold stays in the laundry bag and gets packed back into our suitcase at the end of the trip.
13. Portable Fan
Celebrity cabins usually have great air conditioning, but some cruisers like to bring a small portable fan for extra airflow or white noise at night. A compact, USB-powered fan works best since outlets can be limited in certain cabins.
14. Travel Vanity Mirror
Celebrity’s staterooms have good lighting and large mirrors, especially on the newer ships, but depending on the size of your cabin and how many people are sharing it, things can get tight when everyone’s getting ready. A small travel mirror with lights can be helpful if you want to do your hair or makeup outside the bathroom. It’s optional, but nice to have if you like your own setup space.
15. Portable Charger
It’s easy to run down your phone battery on a Celebrity cruise, especially when you’re using the app, taking photos, or checking in on Wi-Fi. A portable charger saves you from hunting for an outlet in the middle of the day or heading back to the cabin just to plug in. Keep it charged overnight so it’s ready when you head out for the day.
Drinks and Onboard Beverage Tips
16. Coffee Tumbler or Reusable Cup
Celebrity provides to-go cups with lids in the buffet for the included drip coffee in the mornings, so bringing your own tumbler isn’t necessary. If you have a drink package that includes specialty coffee, you can grab your latte or cappuccino at Café al Bacio, where they’ll serve it in a real mug or a to-go cup upon request. A personal tumbler is completely optional.
17. Reusable Water Bottle
Celebrity doesn’t include bottled water unless you have a Classic or Premium Beverage Package. Still, you can always fill a reusable water bottle with filtered water or ice at the buffet or in the gym before heading out for the day. It’s the easiest way to stay hydrated around the ship or on excursions without buying bottles from the bar or café.
18. You Can Bring Wine or Champagne
Celebrity allows each adult guest to bring one 750 ml bottle of wine or Champagne in their carry-on bag when boarding. You can enjoy it in your stateroom with no corkage fee, or bring it to dinner for a $25 corkage fee per bottle. Beer, liquor, and bottled water aren’t allowed. If you’re staying in a standard stateroom, pack a small corkscrew or wine key. Guests in AquaClass or The Retreat usually have a wine setup in their room, but butlers in The Retreat can open and serve the wine for you.
Toiletries and Personal Care
19. Sunscreen
Sunscreen is a must, even on overcast sea days. Buying it on board can be pricey, so it’s better to bring your own. I pack enough for both sea and port days and make sure it’s reef-safe if we’re sailing the Caribbean or visiting destinations that require it.
Note: Some Celebrity ships occasionally have large bottles of sunscreen and aloe by the pool, but it’s not guaranteed. Don’t rely on it—bring your own so you’re covered.
20. Bug Spray or Wipes
Depending on your itinerary, bug spray or insect-repellent wipes can come in handy—especially in the Caribbean or Central America, where mosquitoes can be a problem in specific ports. I like the travel-size wipes since they’re easy to pack and don’t take up much room. Even if you never need them, you’ll be glad to have them just in case.
21. Sea-Bands or Motion Sickness Options
Even though we’ve only had smooth sailings on Celebrity, it’s still smart to pack motion sickness remedies just in case. Sea-Bands, Bonine, or Dramamine are easy to keep in your bag, and ginger chews or pills are a great natural backup. I’ve found that even experienced cruisers appreciate having something on hand when the ship hits a choppy stretch.
Tip: Green apples can also help with mild motion sickness. I learned that during an Alaska cruise on another line, and it worked surprisingly well.
22. Mini First Aid Kit & Medications
A small first aid kit saves you from hunting down basic meds at the onboard shop, where prices can add up quickly. I always include pain relievers, allergy tablets, motion sickness pills, bandages, and electrolyte packets so we’re covered for minor issues. Keep prescription medications in their original bottles and pack them in your carry-on bag, not your checked luggage, so they’re easy to access on embarkation day.
23. Aloe Vera or After-Sun Gel
Even with sunscreen, a long day in the sun can still sneak up on you. Aloe vera or a cooling after-sun gel helps soothe skin and speed up recovery if you do get a little too much sun. I am a fan of Maui Vera, but any gentle aloe product will do.
24. SPF Lip Balm
It’s easy to forget about lip protection until it’s too late. Pack at least one lip balm with SPF to keep your lips from drying or burning in the sun. I usually keep one in my day bag and another in the cabin, so I never have to go searching for it.
25. Anti-Chafe Balm
Long days exploring the ship or walking around port can lead to uncomfortable chafing, especially in warm or humid climates. A quick swipe of anti-chafe balm before heading out makes a big difference if you’re wearing shorts, dresses, or swimsuits. It’s one of those small items that doesn’t take up space but can save the day.
26. Hand Sanitizer & Wipes
Celebrity has hand sanitizer stations around the ship, especially outside dining venues, but it’s still smart to carry your own small bottle of sanitizer or travel wipes. They’re convenient for moments when a station isn’t nearby or when you’re exploring ashore. It’s a simple way to stay healthy throughout your cruise.
Port Day and Excursion Essentials
27. Snorkel Set
If your Celebrity cruise includes Perfect Day at CocoCay or ports known for clear water and coral reefs, bringing your own snorkel gear can make the experience easier and cleaner than using rentals. The visibility at CocoCay is incredible, and it’s nice to have a mask that fits comfortably and a mouthpiece you trust. If you don’t snorkel often, even a basic set from home can come in handy for beach days.
Tip: You can rent snorkel gear at Perfect Day at CocoCay and other ports, but it usually costs more than bringing your own—and rentals can run out on busy days.
28. Water Shoes
Water shoes are worth packing if your cruise includes Perfect Day at CocoCay, beach stops with rocky areas, or any excursions that involve getting in and out of boats. They make it easier to walk on wet decks or uneven surfaces and protect your feet from shells or hot sand. Even though many of Celebrity’s beach destinations have soft sand, I still like having a pair just in case.
29. Sun Hat
A lightweight sun hat always comes in handy on a cruise. It’s great for lounging by the pool or exploring sunny Caribbean and Mediterranean ports, as it gives you extra shade and helps protect your face from the sun. I like ones that are foldable so they pack easily in a tote or carry-on.
30. Waterproof Phone Pouch
A waterproof phone pouch is one of those small things that can save your phone on beach or water-based excursions. It’s great for kayaking, snorkeling tours, or even lounging by the pool when you don’t want to worry about splashes. I like clear ones so I can still take photos without taking my phone out.
31. Towel Bands & Clips
Towel clips or bands keep your pool towel from blowing away on windy sea days. They’re simple but surprisingly helpful when you’re relaxing on the pool deck or your balcony. I’ve used both styles. The bands take up less space in your bag, but clips work great if you prefer something sturdier.
32. Beach Bag or Packable Backpack
A lightweight beach bag is great for carrying sunscreen, towels, and other essentials to the pool or off the ship. I prefer one that folds flat in my suitcase and has room for a few extras picked up in port. Celebrity often provides a branded tote bag in Concierge Class, AquaClass, and The Retreat, but it’s still nice to bring your own if you want something larger or sturdier. Celebrity provides beach towels for you to take ashore, so there’s no need to pack your own
Extras That Come in Handy on Celebrity
33. Downy Wrinkle Release Spray
Irons and steamers aren’t allowed on cruise ships, so Downy Wrinkle Releaser or a similar spray is the easiest way to freshen up your clothes once you unpack. A quick spritz works surprisingly well for getting wrinkles out after your clothes have been folded in a suitcase for days. I usually hang outfits in the bathroom while I shower to let the steam help, too.
34. Ziplock Bags
Ziplock bags always end up being useful on a cruise. I use them for wet swimsuits, leftover snacks, and keeping small items like jewelry or chargers organized. They also come in handy on port days if you want to protect your phone or documents from sand and water. A few gallon and sandwich sizes are all you need.
35. Laundry Detergent Packets
Since Celebrity doesn’t have self-serve laundry rooms, travel-size detergent packets or sheets are useful for handwashing smaller items in the sink. I usually rinse swimsuits or a few lightweight pieces mid-cruise and hang them to dry. It’s a simple way to stretch your clean clothes without paying for laundry service.
36. Travel Clothesline
Some Celebrity ships have a clothesline in the shower, but not all of them do. I actually wish I had brought one on our last Celebrity cruise because our cabin didn’t have one, making it a bit of a challenge to dry swimsuits. You can attach it to your magnetic hooks inside the bathroom if there isn’t a built-in line. Before your cruise, check recent cabin reviews or YouTube tours to see if your ship has one.
37. Tide-To-Go Pen
Accidents happen, especially at dinner when you’re trying new dishes or sipping wine. A Tide To Go pen is great for quick cleanups and saves you from having to change clothes right before evening events. It’s small enough to keep in your day bag or clutch for easy access.
38. a Pen
A pen always comes in handy on a cruise. You’ll need it to fill out room service breakfast forms, the laundry list, customs forms, or even to jot down excursion notes. We usually expect to find one in the stateroom, but that’s not always the case, so it’s worth tossing one in your bag just in case.
39. Evening Chic Outfit (Optional)
Celebrity doesn’t have theme nights, but they do host Evening Chic evenings—usually two per 7-day cruise. It’s not formal night, but many guests dress up a bit more for dinner or photos. Pack at least one outfit that feels slightly elevated from your usual evening wear if you’d like to join in.
Note: Celebrity provides robes in most cabins and slippers in Concierge, AquaClass and The Retreat.
BEFORE YOU SET SAIL, HERE ARE SOME RELATED ARTICLES YOU DON’T WANT TO MISS:
Meet Kathy Ava, a food, travel, and cruise writer based in Los Angeles/Pasadena, and the owner and main writer of Tasty Itinerary. With over 20 years of experience planning trips and logistics at her full-time job and for herself, she’s become a pro at crafting unforgettable tasty itineraries. She’s always on the hunt for delicious, fun travel destinations and cruise itineraries. She firmly believes that life is short and we must make the most of it, so always say yes to dessert.
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