Loading Page...

Can I bring liquids on a cruise?

You are allowed to bring a quart-size, zip-lock bag of liquids, aerosols, gels, creams and pastes though the checkpoint in carryon luggage.



Unlike the strict 100ml (3.4 oz) rule enforced by the TSA at airports, cruise lines are generally much more lenient regarding toiletries and non-alcoholic liquids. In 2026, you can typically pack full-sized bottles of shampoo, sunscreen, and lotion in both your carry-on and checked luggage for a cruise. However, most cruise lines have strict limits on beverages. For example, many allow each guest of legal drinking age to bring one 750ml bottle of wine or champagne at embarkation, but prohibit hard liquor and beer. Non-alcoholic drinks like soda or water are often restricted to a "12-pack per stateroom" and must be carried on in cans or cartons rather than plastic bottles to prevent smuggling of clear spirits. Always check your specific cruise line’s policy (e.g., Royal Caribbean vs. Carnival), as some have banned plastic water bottles entirely to reduce waste. It’s also important to remember that if you are flying to your cruise port, you must still follow the airport's liquid rules for your flight before you reach the ship terminal.

People Also Ask

While airlines have restrictions on what size of toiletries you can bring on a flight, at least in your carry on or personal bag, cruise lines do not. If you're not concerned about packing space, you can bring full size toiletry items including shampoo and conditioner bottles, shaving cream and other hygiene products.

MORE DETAILS

The cruise line also specifically says that drinks in bottles are not allowed. Princess policy: Passengers can bring up to 12 cans/cartons of non-alcoholic beverages. Drinks packaged in bottles aren't allowed.

MORE DETAILS

guests agree not to bring alcoholic beverages of any kind on board for consumption, except one bottle of wine or champagne per adult of drinking age (no larger than 750 ml) per voyage, which will not be subject to a corkage fee if consumed in the stateroom.

MORE DETAILS

Can you bring snacks, like candy, on a cruise? Shelf-stable snacks like chips, pretzels, protein bars or any other items packaged in sealed wrappers are permitted on every major cruise line.

MORE DETAILS

Can I pack wine in my suitcase for a cruise? You cannot pack wine in checked luggage for a cruise.

MORE DETAILS

If you're flying to your port of embarkation, just remember that, per Transportation Security Administration (TSA) regulations, carry-on liquids must be in containers of no more than three oz (100 ml) each, and all must fit in a clear quart-sized bag for inspection when you go through security.

MORE DETAILS

A small quantity is considered a maximum of 12 sealed, unopened cans/cartons of 12 ounces each or less, per person.” Given that most people sail with two people to a room, that means you can bring 24 cans/cartons of anything you want as long as it's non-alcoholic. Just be sure that it is not in a bottle.

MORE DETAILS

Bringing Liquor and Beverages On Board - Embarkation Guests are prohibited from bringing water, sodas and other non-alcoholic beverages that are packaged in glass or plastic bottles.

MORE DETAILS

Shampoo, conditioner, face wash, deodorant, razors and shaving cream, body wash, a toothbrush and toothpaste, and hair brush should all be in your suitcase before you zip it up! If you wear contacts, make sure that you have contact solution, too.

MORE DETAILS

Your Toiletries Should Go in Your Carry-On As Well Much like having an extra set of clothes readily available, it's also a good idea to stash a few essential toiletries, such as a toothbrush, toothpaste and deodorant, in your hand luggage so you can freshen up before your checked bags arrive.

MORE DETAILS

When you arrive at the Port Authority Security in the cruise terminal, you will pass a security checkpoint where all carry-on luggage goes through X-rays and other baggage is checked in. All checked bags on cruise ships are scanned.

MORE DETAILS

Fine or surcharge: On many cruise lines, you may be subject to a fine or a surcharge if they catch you sneaking alcohol onto the ship. Confiscation of alcohol: No matter what other disciplinary action the cruise line takes, you can expect them to confiscate your alcohol as soon as they find it.

MORE DETAILS

Passengers must pass through an airport-style detector and they will have a digital photo taken. Most cruise lines employ former police or military personnel to process boarding checks, and scent dogs may be present to check for drugs, which are among many items prohibited on board.

MORE DETAILS

Final word. On most cruises, you're welcome to wander the ship with a drink in your hand, at least in most areas. It's just like one large resort, so grab your favourite tipple and then find your perfect spot to enjoy it. Just make sure you ask for plastic glasses if you want to head over to a pool or hot tub.

MORE DETAILS

The bathroom is a great place to dry your clothes. You can also hang them in other places around your stateroom. Another option is to bring a clothesline with you on your trip to set up in your cabin and have a dedicated spot to dry your clothes.

MORE DETAILS

Shampoo and conditioner — as well as and roll-on, aerosol, and gel deodorant — must be travel-sized and fit into one quart-sized, zip-top bag to meet standard carry-on bag requirements. If any of the containers are larger than 3.4 ounces, you will need to pack them in your checked luggage.

MORE DETAILS

Yes, they do. On your cruise, you'll have access to all the bath towels, washcloths, hand towels, and beach towels you need. You can even bring a beach towel with you on your beach day shore excursion!

MORE DETAILS

Please Note: All guests must comply with TSA guidelines for transporting liquids. On embarkation day, each guest of drinking age may bring one (1) sealed 750 ml bottle of wine or champagne. Boxed wine and other containers are prohibited.

MORE DETAILS

Red Tape for Reds and Whites A standard wine bottle holds 750 milliliters (mL)—just under the allowance. “Beyond the duty-free limit,” says Bulmash, “you can bring in wine—you just have to pay taxes on it.” That means declaring the bottles on your entry form at the airport and standing in an extra line.

MORE DETAILS

Alcoholic beverages with more than 24% but not more than 70% alcohol are limited in checked bags to 5 liters (1.3 gallons) per passenger and must be in unopened retail packaging. Alcoholic beverages with 24% alcohol or less are not subject to limitations in checked bags.

MORE DETAILS