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6 Things You Don’t Need to Pack When Taking a Disney Cruise

Planning for a Disney Cruise is an exciting part of the vacation process, but knowing what to leave behind is just as important. Unlike traditional vacations, there are several items you won’t need onboard, saving you space and hassle.

Whether you’re cruising on Disney Magic, Disney Wonder, Disney Dream, Disney Fantasy, or Disney Wish, here’s a helpful list of things you can safely leave at home.


1. Hairdryer

There’s no need to bring a hairdryer along on your Disney Cruise. Each stateroom provides one in the vanity area, offering similar convenience to a Disney Resort hotel room.

However, if you need straighteners or curling irons, be sure to pack those, as they aren’t provided or available for borrowing onboard.


2. Toiletries

Each stateroom comes stocked with premium shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and lotion. These products, previously provided by H2O+, are known for their quality. Additionally, you’ll find facial and hand soap replenished during your stay.

While these complimentary products should meet most guests’ needs, you may want to bring your personal toothbrush, toothpaste, or other specialty toiletries. Though available at onboard shops, these items can be pricey, so it’s better to bring your own from home.

Three pump bottles on a bathroom shelf evoke visions of a Disney Cruise. From left to right, they are labeled: "Sea Marine Conditioner," "Sea Marine Revitalizing Shampoo," and "Sea Salt Body Wash." Each bottle is part of the H2O+ beauty line, perfect for adding to your packing list.
Credit: Notes from Neverland

3. Pool Towels

Skip packing bulky towels—pool and beach towels are provided free of charge on Disney ships. You’ll find towels available at several stations around the pool deck. When you’re done, simply return used towels to collection points or leave them in your stateroom for evening pickup by your stateroom host.

If your cruise includes a stop at Castaway Cay, Disney’s private island, towels will be provided for your use there as well. However, if you’re planning excursions that require towels, it’s a good idea to grab a few from the ship before heading off.


4. Iron and Laundry Services

Don’t pack an iron—Disney Cruise Line prohibits them due to fire hazards. Instead, free irons are available in the laundry facilities onboard. Each deck with guest rooms typically has a laundry room equipped with washers, dryers, ironing boards, and irons.

While ironing is complimentary, a small fee applies to use the washers and dryers. If you prefer to avoid doing laundry yourself, you can also take advantage of Disney Cruise Line’s laundry services for an additional fee.


5. Candles and Other Flammable Items

Leave candles and lighters at home, as these are prohibited onboard for safety reasons. While bringing home candles from your Disney vacation is common, you won’t be able to bring them onto the cruise.

If you purchased candles at Walt Disney World, you can leave them with port security before boarding. Security will tag the items and provide you with a receipt. When you return from your cruise, simply present your ticket to retrieve your belongings.

A cruise ship's deck with a pool in the foreground featuring a large image of Mickey Mouse. Numerous blue lounge chairs surround the pool. A large screen shows a movie, and a yellow water slide curves into view on the right. The sky is partly cloudy, adding charm to this Disney Cruise Line experience.
Credit: Flickr

6. Balloons

If you’ve picked up a souvenir balloon from Magic Kingdom or another Disney Park, you’ll need to either deflate it or leave it behind. Disney Cruise Line does not permit inflated balloons on board, as they pose logistical challenges and safety concerns.

Not ready to part with your balloon? Consider gifting it to a fellow guest at the parks before heading to the port. It’s a small act of kindness that can spread a bit of Disney magic.


Bonus Tip: 

One of the biggest advantages of a Disney Cruise is that you can pack light while still having everything you need. With complimentary toiletries, towels, and other amenities provided onboard, you won’t have to carry as much as you would on other vacations. This allows more space in your luggage for souvenirs and personal essentials.

Additionally, using Disney’s laundry services or packing a smaller number of clothes and washing them onboard can help you travel even lighter.


Make the Most of Your Disney Cruise

Disney Cruise Line is designed to offer convenience, luxury, and magic without the need for excessive packing. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned Disney traveler, knowing what to leave behind ensures a smoother vacation experience.

Mickey Minnie Disney Cruise Line
Credit: Disney

With fewer items to carry, you’ll have more room for the things that truly matter—like Disney souvenirs and memories. Take the time to explore the ship, enjoy exceptional dining, and make the most of your magical cruise adventure.

Now that you know what to leave off your packing list, it’s time to set sail on your dream Disney Cruise vacation. Happy cruising!

Victoria Mills

Victoria is a Disney-loving, tea-drinking, Math teacher from Liverpool, England. Her motto is 'work hard, Disney harder'! Having taken part in the Disney College Program back in 2010, Victoria's love and appreciation for Walt Disney World only grew, and it's the place where she feels most herself - it's home!

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