Packing for a Royal Caribbean cruise? Understanding the luggage rules can save you from last-minute stress at the port. From how much you can bring to what’s strictly prohibited, here’s a quick and essential guide to Royal Caribbean’s luggage policies.
How Much Luggage Can You Bring?
Unlike airlines, Royal Caribbean doesn’t set a strict limit on how much luggage you can bring. However, they recommend packing a reasonable amount and limiting the number of bags for convenience. The goal is to travel light and make embarkation smoother.
Carry-On Essentials
Your carry-on should include all items you may need immediately upon boarding. Royal Caribbean recommends carrying:
- Important travel documents (passports, visas, boarding passes, and any required legal paperwork).
- Medications in their original containers, along with at least three extra days’ supply in case of unexpected delays.
- A change of clothes and a swimsuit—it may take hours for checked bags to arrive at your stateroom.
TSA-Approved Locks Only
If you plan to lock your suitcase, make sure to use a TSA-approved lock. Other types of locks may be cut off during security screening.
Luggage Tags & Boarding Process
Before you cruise, download and print your luggage tags from Royal Caribbean’s website. These tags are specific to your ship, sailing date, and stateroom. If you forget to attach them, porters at the pier can provide generic luggage tags. However, printing them in advance speeds up the check-in process.
Once at the port, you have two options:
- Self-Carry: You can bring your luggage on board, but you may not have access to your stateroom for several hours.
- Check Bags with Porters: This is the recommended option. Your luggage will be delivered to your stateroom later in the day.
When Will You Get Your Luggage?
Expect some wait time. Luggage delivery varies based on the ship and sailing, and it’s common for bags to arrive after the ship has set sail. Be patient and keep must-have items in your carry-on.
Packing Tips & Must-Have Items
Royal Caribbean suggests packing:
- More than one swimsuit (so you always have a dry one).
- Comfortable walking shoes for excursions.
- Weather-appropriate clothing—hats for warm climates, jackets and sweaters for colder destinations.
Can You Bring Your Own Food and Drinks?
- Food: You can bring non-perishable, prepackaged snacks in limited quantities.
- Alcohol: Guests of legal drinking age can bring one 750ml bottle of wine or champagne per person (no beer or hard liquor).
- Non-Alcoholic Drinks: Each stateroom can bring up to 12 sealed 17-ounce cans, bottles, or cartons of non-alcoholic beverages.
Prohibited Items
Certain items are strictly forbidden, including:
- Firearms, weapons, and replicas
- Sharp objects (except safety scissors with blades under 4 inches)
- Illegal drugs, CBD products, and marijuana
- Open-flame items (candles, incense, coffee makers, irons, steamers)
- Hoverboards, drones, and extension cords
- Homemade or perishable food items
Curling irons, hair straighteners, lighters, and matches are allowed.
Lost or Damaged Luggage?
If your luggage is damaged or goes missing, you can file a claim with Royal Caribbean’s Guest Relations. The process typically involves submitting a claim via email (check your cruise documents for the latest contact details).
Extra Packing Tips for Excursions
If you’re heading to Perfect Day at CocoCay or other adventure-packed destinations, consider bringing:
- UPF clothing and sunscreen for sun protection.
- Bug repellent (especially for tropical ports).
- Closed-toe shoes for ziplining or active shore excursions.
Final Thoughts
Packing smart for your Royal Caribbean cruise ensures a smoother start to your vacation. Follow these guidelines, and you’ll be ready to set sail stress-free. Also not sure what is in the Royal Caribbean? Here is the inner workings of this cruise ship.
Are you cruising soon? Let us know your top packing tips in the comments!
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