Disney Cruise Carry-On Essentials

I’m currently in FULL PLANNING MODE for my first Disney Cruise so I have been doing ALLLL the research and chatting with Disney cruise experts galore. I have compiled all their best tips here.

One of the most consistent things I am hearing is to make sure to pack a carry on because your luggage won’t be delivered to your room until later in the evening. Similar to most airlines, Disney Cruise Line allows you the bring on one carry-on and one personal item. Your carry-on bag can be as large as 22 inches high, 14 inches wide, and 9 inches deep, but another thing to keep in mind is that your room won’t be ready until around 3pm. So if you have an early embarkation time, you won’t be able to go to your room right away and whatever you choose to bring on board with you will remain with you for the first few hours. For this reason I would suggest packing a backpack or a duffle bag over a traditional rolling carry-on. My favorite travel bag is this LOVEVOOK BACKPACK. I always take it with me anytime I’m boarding a plane and I plan to have it with me when I board the Disney Treasure later this year. You also won’t want your bag to be too heavy so keep these bare necessities in mind when packing.

Matt Stroshane, Disney

BOARDING DOCUMENTS

Make sure you have any cruise line documents and your proof of citizenship like your passport with you. You won’t be able to board without these items. Double check exactly what you will need on the DISNEY CRUISE LINE WEBSITE.

MEDICATION

Probably the most important thing to think about is any prescription medication you may need as you don’t want to find yourself missing a dose if your luggage is delayed for any reason. It would probably also be a good idea to have basic medications like pain relievers or anything you may want to use for motion sickness.

POOLSIDE ITEMS

Embarkation day is a great time to hit up the pool as most people are busy getting through check-in and settling. If you are lucky enough to have an early boarding time, you might want to have a swimsuit, cover up, sunscreen, and anything else you may want for lounging by the pool.

A LANYARD AND/OR DISNEYBAND+

When you board you should receive your Key to the World card which will allow you to scan onto the ship, unlock your stateroom, make onboard purchases, and more. Disney will provide you with a lanyard, but I’ve heard they can be pretty flimsy so having your own is probably a good idea. If you are planning to purchase a DISNEYBAND+, it will be able to do everything your Key to the World card can do, plus has Haptic vibrations, light effects during shows, and exclusive onboard games on select newer ships.

YOUR PHONE & PORTABLE CHARGER

You’ll probably want to be using your phone to capture photos, video, check your Disney Cruise Line app, and keep in touch with your cruise companions. All that activity can drain your battery so make sure you have a portable charger (or two) so you don’t have to worry about finding a place to plug in to charge. My favorite one is this MAGSAFE POWER BANK.

A REFILLABLE WATER BOTTLE

Hydration is going to be very important while at sea and at your ports! Since you’re going to want a refillable water bottle anyway, might as well have it with you for your first few hours on the ship to get a head start on that water intake! My favorite bottles are made by HYDROFLASK. I love cold water and this keeps ice in my water for a full 24 hours. They come in several sizes and colors to match your style.