packing list for a Caribbean cruise

We just returned this past weekend from a 7-night cruise to the Caribbean (stopping in Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic, San Juan, Puerto Rico, and the Bahamas). I scoured the internet before we left for any must-haves or must-dos and this was ultimately the most helpful list!

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Essential Documents

Passports / Boarding Passes (or Tickets)

Photo IDs

Health insurance card (just in case)

Credit card (just in case)

Cash (just in case)

Printed Luggage Tags (included in PDF of tickets from checking into cruise online)

Phone/Charger

Medications

Any prescription meds

Advil/Tylenol

Allergy Meds

Antacids

Dramamine (for motion sickness) or Sea Bands / Motion Sickness patches, etc

LOTS of Sunscreen (more than you think you need!)

SPF Lip Balm

Bug Spray

Aloe Vera

Toiletries

Shampoo/Conditioner/Body Wash/Lotion/Face Wash/Moisturizer 

Makeup

Hair Products/Hairbrush / Hair ties or clips

Blowdryer/Curling Iron

Glasses/Contacts/Solution/Case

Toothbrush/Paste/Floss

Deodorant

Nail Clippers/Tweezers

Razor

Travel Items

Towel clips or bands to keep your beach towel on your chair (DO NOT pack beach towels -- too bulky! There are plenty on boat)
Travel Backpack (or something lightweight to carry on excursions)

Sunglasses

Travel Sound Machine (optional)

Reading Materials / Kindle

Laundry Bag

Ziplocs for keeping liquids from spilling in luggage, etc

Magnetic Hooks (optional - can help hanging up wet swimsuits, etc, but there'll be a clothes line in your shower)

Headphones (if you plan on listening to anything)

Portable phone charger (optional)

Lanyards (for your cruise cards)

Waterproof phone pouch 

Clothing

Underwear (more than you think you need!)

Socks

Sneakers (for gym visits, the ropes course, or excursions that require them)

Water Shoes (optional)

Pool/Beach Sandals

Nice Sandals or Shoes for Dinners (comfy - lots of walking)

Gym Attire (if you plan to work out)

Casual Attire

Nicer Attire for Dining Room Meals

Optional - Outfits for Theme Nights

Swimsuits

Goggles (optional)

Coverups

Sweater/Sweatshirt for cool nights

PJs

Hat/Baseball Cap for keeping sun out of your eyes

Inexpensive Jewelry