The right luggage for every trip
The appeal of cruises
Everything you need to know about cruises: Going on a cruise can be an exciting and unforgettable experience. But before you set sail, there are a few important things to bear in mind to ensure you’re fully prepared. From choosing the right luggage to safety precautions on board, here are some tips to help you get the most out of your cruise.
1. Choosing the right luggage
When choosing your luggage for a cruise, it’s important to think practically whilst also taking your needs during the trip into account. Here are some key points to bear in mind:
Size and type of luggage: First, check your cruise line’s luggage guidelines to ensure your luggage complies with the specified dimensions and weight restrictions. A wheeled suitcase is often a good choice as it is easy to transport. A small day rucksack or a bag for shore excursions can also be useful.
Weather conditions: Take the climate at your destination into account and pack appropriate clothing. Remember that the weather at sea can be unpredictable, so it is advisable to pack some weatherproof clothing as well.
Formal evenings: Many cruises include formal evenings where smart attire is required. Don’t forget to pack suitable outfits, such as evening dresses or suits.
Onboard activities: If you plan to take part in onboard activities such as sports or wellness, pack the appropriate equipment, such as swimwear or trainers.
2. Safety measures and guidelines on board
Safety is of the utmost importance on a cruise. Before you board, it is important to understand the cruise line’s safety precautions and guidelines. Here are some key points:
Emergency drills: Take part in the compulsory emergency drills held at the start of your cruise. These drills will show you how to behave in the event of an emergency and where the emergency equipment is located.
Luggage checks: Your luggage will be checked for prohibited items before boarding. Avoid packing dangerous or prohibited items to prevent delays or problems when boarding.
Safety precautions in the cabin: Familiarise yourself with the safety precautions in the cabin, such as the location of life jackets and emergency exits.
How much luggage is allowed with each cruise line?
MSC Cruises
- A maximum of two pieces of luggage per person, not exceeding 90x75x43 cm in size and weighing no more than 23 kg each
- Hand luggage should also consist of a maximum of two items per person, no larger than 56x45x25 cm and weighing no more than 23 kg
On all MSC Grand Voyages (positioning cruises), these guidelines represent the maximum allowance per person. The total luggage carried by all passengers in a cabin must not exceed 100 kg and/or 8 items. Otherwise, the luggage may not be accepted at Check.IN.
When travelling to and from the port by coach, luggage is limited to 25 kg and a maximum of two items per person.
All luggage must be stored in the cabin, and must not block any exits. No additional storage space is provided on board. Please also note the list of prohibited items.
Source: Information on luggage for your cruise | MSC Cruises
TUI Cruises
Weight of your suitcase – There are no luggage restrictions on your cruise ship. However, if you are travelling to and from the port by plane, you should take your airline’s regulations into account. If your suitcase exceeds the permitted weight, you may incur additional charges.
Source: tui_cruises_checkliste_koffer.pdf (meinschiff.com)
Royal Caribbean cruise ship
Every guest is permitted to bring a reasonable amount of personal belongings (including luggage) on board the ship. To ensure greater comfort and a smooth process, we recommend that you limit the number of items you bring to the bare essentials. All guests have the option of bringing their luggage on board themselves or checking it in before embarkation. Luggage may include suitcases, travel bags, rucksacks, bags, clothes hangers, toiletries bags and similar items. Here are some recommendations to help you pack only the things you really need on a cruise.
Source: What should I pack for my cruise holiday? | Royal Caribbean Germany
Carnival Cruise Line
Checked baggage service is only available until 2 hours before the ship’s published sailing time (printed in the cruise documents). Guests arriving after this time will be responsible for taking their bags on board.
Each checked suitcase and carry-on suitcase should not weigh more than 50 pounds, and when laid flat, bags must not exceed 16 inches high by 24 inches wide (the length of the bag is not a factor). For security screening purposes, all luggage should be unlocked. Oversized luggage and locked luggage may cause delivery delays.
Source: carnival.com/help?topicid=1373
Norwegian Cruise Line
Similar to airlines, each guest may check in two pieces of luggage, each weighing a maximum of 50 pounds. Your luggage should be clearly labelled with your name and contact details.
Bring an additional small bag with you: after boarding, it may take several hours for your luggage to be delivered to your cabin. Your suitcases will also be collected on the last night of your cruise. To avoid any complications, be sure to bring a small bag, such as a rucksack, in which you can keep all necessary medication, valuables, important documents and items you may need.
Source: What should I pack? What’s included? (ncl.com)
nicko Cruises
Please remember to attach a luggage tag bearing your name to each of your items of luggage. Please only send standard travel bags and suitcases. As a guideline, the maximum weight is 23 kg and the dimensions are 90 × 60 × 30 cm per item of luggage. We are also happy to transport larger and bulky items (wheelchairs, sea chests, golf bags, etc.) following individual consultation.
Source: nickocruises-fluss-d-amstbaselpragbusparislyon-230316.pdf (nicko-cruises.de)
P&O Cruises
How much luggage can I take with me?
You can take as much luggage as will fit in your cabin. However, please bear in mind your airline’s luggage restrictions.
Source: FAQ | P&O Cruises (pocruises.de)
Viking Cruises
Are there any luggage restrictions during the trip? Which personal items are allowed on board and which are prohibited?
Each airline has its own luggage policy regarding fees and other restrictions; please contact your airline directly for the most up-to-date information.
On board, luggage must be stored in the guest’s cabin. Further information will be provided well in advance to allow you to plan for your voyage. A full list of permitted and prohibited items on board is available below. You may also download our Prohibited Items List (PDF)
Source: https://www.vikingcruises.com
3. Tips for an enjoyable cruise
Apart from choosing your luggage and taking safety precautions, there are a few more tips that will help you enjoy your cruise:
Planning shore excursions: Find out in advance about the various shore excursions on offer during your cruise and plan ahead which ones you’d like to join.
Food and drink: Enjoy the variety of food and drink on board. Many cruise ships offer a wide range of culinary experiences, from buffets to gourmet restaurants.
Relaxation and recreation: Make the most of your time on board to relax and unwind. Many cruise ships have wellness areas, pools and entertainment facilities to help you leave the stresses of everyday life behind.
Explore the world whilst enjoying a luxury holiday
Cruises offer you a unique opportunity to explore the world whilst enjoying the comfort and amenities of a luxury holiday. Here are a few reasons why cruises are so appealing:
1. Variety of destinations: On a cruise, you can visit several destinations in a single trip without having to constantly pack your bags and check out of hotels. From exotic islands to historic cities and breathtaking coastal landscapes, there is a wide variety of destinations for you to discover.
2. Onboard amenities: Modern cruise ships are equipped with a wide range of amenities to ensure your journey is as comfortable as possible. From luxurious cabins and first-class restaurants to entertainment options such as theatres, casinos and spa areas, there is something for everyone to enjoy on board.
3. All-inclusive experience: Many cruises offer an all-inclusive experience, where meals, drinks and entertainment are included in the price of the trip. This means you don’t have to worry about a thing during your journey and can simply sit back and relax.
4. Community and social interaction: A cruise offers you a unique opportunity to meet new people and make friends. With a wide range of activities and events on board, there are always opportunities to connect with other passengers and share experiences together.
5. Unforgettable experiences: From spectacular sunsets and exciting shore excursions to entertaining evenings on board – cruises offer countless unforgettable experiences that you will cherish for a lifetime.
Overall, cruises offer a unique combination of travel, luxury and adventure, making them a fascinating travel experience. Whether you want to explore the world or simply escape the daily grind, a cruise promises unforgettable moments and endless opportunities for relaxation and entertainment.
