Essential Products Every Cruiser Needs for the Perfect Port Day
Port days are some of the most exciting highlights of any cruise vacation—whether you’re exploring charming coastal towns, lounging on pristine beaches, or embarking on adventurous excursions. But to make the most of your time ashore, it’s essential to have the right gear on hand. From keeping you comfortable and organized to ensuring you’re ready for anything, the right products can elevate your port day experience. In this guide, I’ll share the must-have items that every cruise traveler should pack for a smooth and stress-free day exploring new destinations.
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This portable safe is a must-have for keeping your valuables secure! It’s perfect for protecting your phone, passport, cash, and credit cards while you’re exploring ports or relaxing by the pool. The four-digit combination lock and sturdy cable make it easy to secure to a fixed object, and the water-resistant design adds an extra layer of protection. Compact and convenient, it even has a port for charging your devices while locked—talk about peace of mind on the go!
This waterproof phone pouch is an absolute favorite. It’s IPX8 rated, so it’ll protect your phone from water, sand, and dust—even up to 100 feet deep! With an extra pocket for small essentials like keys or credit cards, and a clear, touch-friendly design that won’t block your camera, it’s perfect for capturing moments by the pool or underwater.
#3
Wet-Dry Bag
this waterproof wet bag is a total lifesaver for port days and excursions! It’s lightweight, reusable, and perfect for stashing wet swimsuits, gym clothes, or even beach essentials like sunscreen and snacks. With a handy snap handle, you can easily attach it to your tote or hang it in your cabin. Bonus: the cute, unique designs add a little fun to your travel gear while keeping everything organized and mess-free!
Packed with durable flex fabric bandages, single-use ointments, and hand sanitizers, this travel essential handles minor mishaps on the ship or at port. Each bandage is individually wrapped for quick and easy use, and the reusable, stackable tin keeps everything tidy and organized. A MUST-HAVE that leaves you always prepared for their next adventure!
This compact, waterproof, and airtight case keeps your rings safe and secure, whether you’re relaxing by the pool or exploring new ports. It even floats and has padded dividers to protect multiple rings without a scratch. Thoughtfully designed for convenience and peace of mind, it’s the ultimate jewelry accessory for any cruise adventure!
Neutrogena Invisible Daily Defense Sunscreen Spray is my FAVORITE sunscreen! With SPF 60+ and broad spectrum protection, it shields your skin from harmful UVA/UVB rays and environmental damage like pollution. The best part? It sprays on clear—no white streaks—and dries quickly, so you can get back to soaking up the sun. Water-resistant for up to 80 minutes, this is perfect for pool days or shore excursions.
You need these towel bands in your bag! Forget bulky clips—these natural latex bands keep your towel in place without taking up precious luggage space. They’re lightweight, won’t rust or break, and are perfect for windy days by the pool or at the beach. Trust me, they’ll be your towel’s new best friend while you’re relaxing at your next port-of-call!
You never know where your day might take you, or what amenities will (or will NOT) be available to you, so I recommend ALWAYS being prepared! Individually wrapped for convenience, they’re hypoallergenic, fragrance-free, and perfect for refreshing on the go. These wipes are larger, softer, and more durable than most, making them a must-have for long days exploring. Plus, they’re flushable and septic-safe, so you can feel confident using them anywhere—your port day bag isn’t complete without them!
This portable charger is my FAVORITE travel companion. With built-in micro USB, Type-C, and other data cables, it’s got everything you need to keep your devices powered up. The best part? It has an integrated AC wall plug, so you can charge it straight from the wall—no extra cables needed! Compact and lightweight, it fits right in your bag without taking up space, and it can charge your devices multiple times on a single charge. Perfect for those long days exploring new ports!
#10
Water Shoes
These quick-dry water shoes are a game-changer for excursions and port days! The breathable, elastic fabric keeps your feet comfy, while the anti-slip sole protects against sharp rocks, hot sand, and slippery surfaces. Lightweight and foldable, they’re easy to pack and perfect for everything from snorkeling to beach walks. With stylish designs and sizes for everyone, these water shoes are a must-have for any adventure on land or sea!
Weather can be unpredictable, but don’t let it make or break your port day! This UV-blocking umbrella is a must-have for your travel essentials! With a UPF rating of 50+, it effectively reflects and absorbs harmful UV rays, keeping you protected while you explore. Its compact design folds down to just 7 inches, making it easy to stash in your purse or bag, and the reinforced fiberglass ribs ensure it can withstand a breeze without flipping. Plus, it comes with a lifetime replacement guarantee, so you can adventure worry-free!
You’ll want this Aloe Vera lotion in your bag—trust me! After a long day in the sun, this soothing "Cool Down" lotion is a lifesaver for sunburn relief. It’s packed with Vitamin E and Cocoa Butter to calm and heal your skin, and the non-greasy formula locks in your tan. Pro tip: keep it refrigerated for extra cooling relief after a sunny day at port!
Staying hydrated on your port day is a MUST! It’s made from food-grade, BPA-free silicone, so it's safe even for kids. The leak-proof and dust-proof design means no spills in your bag, and it’s super lightweight and easy to carry. It folds down small, making it perfect for passing through airport security. Plus, it’s eco-friendly—reusable, sturdy, and helps cut down on single-use plastics. It’s the ultimate travel companion for staying hydrated while exploring the world!
If you’re skipping the beach and checking out the local sights on your port day, this anti-theft travel bag is a must-have travel companion! It’s spacious enough for all your essentials, and the secure zippers give you peace of mind while exploring. Made from premium, waterproof Oxford textile, it’s durable and perfect for any weather. The slim, comfortable design fits perfectly against your body, making it stylish and easy to wear. Plus, with a one-year warranty and excellent customer service, you'll feel confident bringing this bag on every adventure!
BUT if the beach is calling you - you NEED the VIRAL Bogg Bag for your next beach-bound port day! Lightweight, waterproof, and tip-proof, this spacious tote is perfect for packing all your essentials—snacks, sunscreen, books, and more. Made from durable EVA material with non-slip treads and comfy straps, it’s built for adventures on land and sea. Bonus: it’s washable and customizable with Bogg Bits, making it both practical and stylish for every cruise getaway!
OR if you’re looking for something a little more budget friendly - Made from durable, anti-tear nylon, this beach bag can hold over 30 lbs and has passed rigorous stress tests, so it’s built to last. With plenty of space for towels, water bottles, sunscreen, and more, plus handy pockets for easy access to your essentials, staying organized on your trip is a breeze. Its bright, colorful design makes it easy to spot, and since it's machine washable and dries quickly, it’s a no-brainer for port days or poolside lounging.
This wearable bladeless neck fan will be your new best friend on port days! Its powerful airflow cools you down in seconds, while the 4000mAh battery lasts up to 16 hours—perfect for long days exploring in the sun. Lightweight and ultra-quiet, it’s designed like headphones for hands-free comfort and safety, even for kids or seniors. With an HD LED display and adjustable speeds, staying cool has never been this effortless or stylish!
And finally - After a long excursion or busy port day, treat your feet to Dr. Scholl’s Self-Heating Foot Masks—your ultimate cruise recovery essential! These self-heating booties are infused with Epsom salt, menthol, and essential oils like lavender and peppermint, soothing tired, achy feet while leaving them soft and refreshed. Mess-free and easy to use, they’re perfect for relaxing in your cabin after a day of exploring. Trust me, your feet will thank you!
With the right essentials in your bag, your port day adventures can go from great to unforgettable. From staying cool and comfortable to keeping your belongings safe and organized, these must-have products are designed to make your cruise excursions stress-free and enjoyable. Whether you're exploring new destinations or relaxing by the water, being prepared ensures you can fully embrace the experience. Pack smart, travel light, and make every moment ashore as seamless and fun as the cruise itself!
