You are going to live on board for months, in a cabin you will probably share, with limited storage. Packing well makes your first weeks much easier. Use this list as a starting point and always follow the joining instructions from your employer.
1. Documents – in your hand luggage
- Passport, with enough validity for the whole contract.
- Visas, including the C1/D if your ship calls in the USA – see our C1/D visa guide.
- STCW certificates, seafarer’s medical certificate and seaman’s book.
- Your contract or letter of employment and joining instructions.
- Paper copies of everything, plus scans saved online and on your phone.
Never put these documents in checked luggage. Without them you cannot join the ship.
2. Work items
- Uniforms are usually provided, but many jobs require your own black, closed, non-slip work shoes – check your instructions.
- Dark socks, a plain belt and simple grooming items for a neat appearance.
- Tools of your trade if requested, for example knives for cooks or kits for spa and salon staff.
3. Clothes for your free time
- Comfortable clothes for the crew areas and shore leave.
- A warm jacket – ships are air-conditioned and some itineraries are cold.
- Comfortable walking shoes and flip-flops for the shower.
- Something smarter for crew events.
4. Health and personal care
- Enough of your regular medicines for the whole contract, in their original packaging, with the prescription.
- A small first-aid kit, painkillers and anything for seasickness your doctor recommends.
- Spare glasses or contact lenses.
- Toiletries for the first weeks – you can buy more on board or ashore.
5. Money and phone
- Some cash in US dollars or euros for the first days, and a bank card that works abroad.
- An unlocked phone, charger and power bank. Ask which socket types the ship uses and bring an adapter.
- Headphones – you will share a cabin.
6. Small comforts
Photos of family, your prayer mat or other faith items, a favourite spice or snack, a book. These small things help a lot on long days far from home. Our guide to life on board has more advice.
What not to bring
- Anything illegal, weapons of any kind and drugs. Ships test and search, and the consequences are serious.
- Irons, kettles, candles, incense and other heat sources – many ships ban them in cabins for fire safety.
- Large hard suitcases – soft bags store more easily in small cabins.
- Valuables you would hate to lose.
Still preparing your documents? Start with our documents checklist, then create your free profile.
