Planning for a cruise can be a daunting experience. Knowing that there are limited opportunities for you to stock up on any essentials or emergency supplies during your time at seas. When packing, one of the primary concerns for many people includes consumable goods and essentials such as toiletries. So do cruise ships provide shampoo and other toiletries to passengers?
With increased exposure to the sun, sea air, and saltwater, you want to make sure that your hair stays relatively clean and healthy. You’ll be happy to know that most cruise ships offer shampoo to their passengers. It is also common for cruise liners to provide passengers with conditioner and shower gel. It may not be the quality you use at home, but it will get the job done. Keep reading for more details on what you should (and should not) expect.
What Toiletries Do Cruise Ships Provide Their Guests?
Similar to most hotels and BnB’s cruise ships provide basic toiletries in the bathrooms and cabins of their passengers. The three most common toiletries that cruise ships offer their guests are shampoo, conditioner, and some form of body soap (be it a bar of soap or shower gel.)
However, the quantity of the toiletry provided and how it is offered to the guest varies depending on the cruise liner policies, which manage the day-to-day running of the cruise ship and the type of cabin booked by the passenger.
Generally speaking, the more expensive/exclusive cabins will feature more toiletries, usually of a higher quality and in unique containers/sizes that are replaced by housekeeping regularly (such as miniature hand lotions or toothpaste.)
While usually including basic toiletries such as shampoo and soap, more affordable cabins may opt for cheaper products that don’t need to be refilled by housekeeping regularly (such as shower gel dispensers installed in the shower.)
You should also be aware that some toiletries may be streamlined to save the cruise ship money, such as a combination of shampoo and conditioner in one container/solution.
Therefore, when packing, you must always contact your travel agent or cruise liner in advance to know which toiletries they stock in the cabins. Make sure to find out how much toiletries they provide daily and the quality of the products. High-quality toiletries are of particular concern to people with allergies or sensitivities, such as products that contain harmful chemicals like fluoride, perfume, and alcohol.
What Toiletries And Accessories Should I Take On A Cruise?
Now that we have an idea of which toiletries you are likely to find in your cruise ship’s different cabins and how to find information on the products they stock, let’s look at which toiletries and bathroom accessories you should take on a cruise ship:
- Personal hygiene items
- Makeup
- Skincare
- Medication
- Bathroom accessories
Just remember to pack all the listed items in a waterproof toiletry bag.
Personal Hygiene Items
Although most cruise ships will provide you with basic hygiene toiletries such as shampoo, conditioner, and soap. You should pack the following personal hygiene toiletries:
- Deodorant
- Toothpaste
- Dental floss
- Hair gel
- Aftershave
- Shaving cream
- Feminine hygiene products
Makeup
While optional, those who wear makeup are advised to bring their products as not only is it improbable that a cruise ship will provide makeup to their guests (even in the most expensive cabins), but the purchasing of makeup on board or offshore may be subject to hefty prices and taxes.
Skincare
Although sunscreen, lip balm, and moisturizer may be provided by a cruise ship’s doctor or lifeguard hut, you must pack your skincare products, as keeping skin moisturized and protected is vital for a cruise ship’s overall skin health and reducing the risk of sunburn.
Just make sure that your skincare products are waterproof.
Medication
While there is usually trained medical staff on board cruise ships, as well as shops that sell over the counter medication, having essential and emergency medication in advance is extremely important:
- Vitamins and minerals,
- Seasickness tablets,
- Emergency over-the-counter medication,
- Prescription medication (with a doctor’s note),
- After-sun care
- Birth control
- A basic travel first aid kit
Note: although particular medication and toiletries contain CBD or THC extracts which may be legal in your state, you must not take these products on a cruise ship, as the movement from port to port with these products in tow could result in you having an illegal product, depending on the jurisdiction you travel to.
Bathroom Accessories
Although most cruise ship cabins will provide you with basic bathroom accessories such as hairdryers, towels, and linen (as well as a laundry service for fabric accessories), there are some bathroom accessories you should bring on a cruise ship:
- Hairbrush and/or comb
- Hair clips
- Hair straighter
- Curling iron
- Nail clippers
- Razor bladed
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you have more questions about what other personal products the cruise ship has onboard? Have a look at the answers below.
What Should I Do If I Run Out Of Toiletries On A Cruise?
If you run out of toiletries, you will usually be able to purchase basic toiletries from an onboard convenience store or pharmacy. Alternatively, you can wait till you dock and purchase toiletries from a convenience store or pharmacy at your destination (just make sure to have the correct currency or credit card access.)
What Happens If I Become Sick On A Cruise Ship?
You must consult with the ship’s doctor so that they can provide treatment and advice. The onboard shop will also have stock of basic medications, like headache pills. If you need stronger medications, remember to pack those in as well.
What Happens If I Lose Or Run Out Of My Prescription Medicine On A Cruise?
A ship’s medical facilities will often be stocked with a limited amount of commonly used prescription medications. However, they may not have your specific medication at any given time if they stock it all. It is better to avoid this situation and pack a backup supply of your necessary medications.
Conclusion
While cruise ships provide basic toiletries and have stores onboard to replenish your stock if you run out, it is a good idea to pack enough toiletries in advance to save you money and make your trip as relaxing as possible!
