Disney Cruise Line - What to Pack

Most people are well aware of the basics you need to pack. You need plenty of clothes for swim, sight seeing, recreation, and dinner. Besides all your basic things here are some tips on what to pack for your cruise.

Day Bag: If you are planning to get off the ship in port you might want to bring a backpack or day bag to carry your personal things with you. Make sure you have some way to securely carry your documents and money. You may also want to carry a snack or bottled water depending on the port, weather, and activity. You may be able to use one of your carry on bags but think ahead when you are packing to be sure you have something that will be the right size and easy to carry.

Large Beach Bag: This is highly recommended if you are traveling with a family. I brought our large beach bag by putting it empty on the bottom of my suitcase. It didn't take up that much room but it was great to have on the trip. On board you may need it up at the pool area to carry sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, cover ups,  etc. Towels are provided but you may have to carry around your other gear. I also used my Large Beach Bag at Castaway Cay. It is a decent walk or a tram ride to the beach. In fact there is a lot of beach and areas to go. They provide towels but they are right when you get off the ship. We had to carry everything to the beach. I was glad I had the big beach bag to put everything in.

Snorkel Equipment: If you have a snorkel set you should bring it with you. You can use it at Castaway Cay and there are lots of beautiful fish. We have a set and it saved us some money.

Something to Autograph: Like I explain in DCL Travel Tips you can drop something off at Guest Services to have signed. Pillow cases, sheets, t-shirts, tote bags, hats, postcards, frame matting, in addition to traditional autograph books can be left.


Walkies Talkies: I know that sounds old fashion but when you are out at sea you cannot use your cell phones. Either they won't work or you will incur huge roaming fees. If you have older children or a bunch of adults and you want to be able to communicate on board consider bringing these. That way you can check in on your kids, find out whose still at the pool, or anything else.

Matching Outfits: The cruise line has many talented photographers on board. They don't charge any sitting fees and have a variety of backgrounds to choose from. We took a family picture with an all white background. It came out great. Its not often we are all together and can get a professional family portrait. You are not required to purchase the pictures but you can. We purchased just a single 8x10 and it was $25. That's not bad. They have a lot of other options of sizes and packages if you want more. The key is to plan ahead and be sure to bring coordinating outfits for your family. It will be worth the effort.

Something Warm:  You may be in the Caribbean or some place warm but don't underestimate the power of air conditioning, especially in the dining rooms. They are kept quite cool so that you can enjoy a hot meal but you may feel cold in your sundress. Make sure you bring a sweater for yourself and especially the kids since they may be more sensitive to being cold .

I'd love to hear from you experience DCL travelers. What items do make sure you pack on every cruise? Thanks for sharing your advice.

Don't forget I am a travel agent and I specialize in Disney vacations. You can request a free quote on my travel agent website Magical Memory Planners.  You'll get lots of great tips, personalized planning services and all for FREE. You'll get the same price if you went online and booked it yourself except I will do all the work for you!