When you arrive at the cruise terminal, you’ll see porters ready to take your larger suitcases. Most guests hand those over to be delivered later to their staterooms. But here’s the mistake first-time cruisers often make: checking everything.

You’ll want to keep a personal bag with you, just like a carry-on at the airport. Why? Because your checked luggage may not show up at your room until later in the afternoon. That means anything you need before then should stay with you.

👉If you’d rather watch than read, here’s a quick TikTok where I break this down step by step ⬇️

@charityky

🧳 Don’t check these 3 things when you cruise- always keep them in the personal bag you carry on for Embarkation Day! Don’t give them to the porters. #cruiseessentials #packingforacruise #royalcaribbean #embarkationday #whattopackforacruise

♬ original sound – Charity🌺Family.Travel.Points.

Here are 3 things you should never check on embarkation day:

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1. Passports and Travel Documents

This one might sound obvious, but it’s surprising how many people forget. You’ll need your passport, boarding pass, and any required health documents before you even step on the ship. If they’re in your checked bag, you won’t make it past security. Keep them in a safe pocket of your personal bag where you can easily access them.

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2. Medications and Valuables

Any prescription medications, jewelry, or valuables should stay with you. Bags can take hours to be delivered, and sometimes they’re set outside stateroom doors before you return. Keeping these items close ensures peace of mind and avoids unnecessary stress.

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3. Phone, Charger, and Power Bank

You’ll use your phone for everything from taking photos to using the cruise line’s app for reservations and schedules. The last thing you want is to run out of battery on day one. Pack your charger and a power bank in your personal bag so you can stay connected while you wait for your stateroom to be ready.

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Bonus Tip

Some cruisers also like to pack a swimsuit so they can hit the pool right away. It’s not essential for everyone, but if pool time is part of your day-one plan, keep it in your bag too.

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Final Thoughts

Think of your cruise carry-on as your “day one survival kit.” Passports, meds, valuables, and your phone charger are non-negotiables. Everything else can safely go with the porters.

Want a ready-to-go packing guide? I’ve put together a full Embarkation Day Checklist & Planner so you never forget an essential.

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FAQs

Do I have to give my bags to the porters?
No, you can roll your luggage onboard yourself if you prefer. Just keep in mind you’ll need to manage it through security and keep it with you until staterooms are ready.

When will my checked luggage arrive?
Most luggage is delivered between 1–4 pm, but sometimes it takes longer. Pack anything you need before then in your personal bag.

Can I bring snacks or drinks in my carry-on?
Yes, but only within Royal Caribbean’s rules. Small prepackaged snacks are allowed, as well as limited nonalcoholic drinks and two bottles of wine or champagne per stateroom. Always bring these items in your personal bag, not in your checked luggage.

What’s the difference between ‘carry-on’ and ‘checked’ for a cruise?
“Checked” bags are the ones you hand to the porters at the terminal to be delivered to your stateroom later. “Carry-on” (or personal bags) are the items you keep with you as you go through security and board the ship.