The best towel to take on a cruise is a high-quality microfiber or Turkish (peshtemal) towel, rather than a standard cotton terry cloth one. While cruise lines provide bulky pool towels, they are often heavy, slow to dry, and take up too much space in a shore excursion bag. A microfiber towel is the "practical" choice for 2026 travelers because it can absorb up to seven times its weight in water while remaining incredibly thin and lightweight. However, many cruisers prefer the Turkish towel for its aesthetic and versatility; it is made of long-fiber cotton that becomes softer with every wash, dries much faster than regular towels, and can double as a sarong, a shawl for chilly dining rooms, or even a makeshift picnic blanket during a beach day in the Caribbean or Mediterranean. Because cabin space is limited, having a towel that folds down to the size of a small book allows you to pack more essentials. Additionally, these towels don't trap sand like traditional loop-pile towels, making them the perfect companion for island hopping and sandy excursions.