Caribbean cruise packing list for families
Small cabins, big pool decks, and a beach at every stop. Here's what to pack for a Caribbean cruise with kids, including the cabin hacks that make it easier.
Photo by Josiah Weiss on Unsplash
Kristina's notes on Caribbean cruise
- Even on closed-loop cruises, I recommend passports. They make any travel hiccup far easier.
- Cabins are small. Magnetic hooks and an over-the-door organizer change everything.
- Bring a lanyard for each kid's room card.
Caribbean cruise
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Carry-on8
Clothing5
Shoes2
Beach & pool8
Little ones4
Health & toiletries4
Documents & tech6
Nautical
White, navy, signal red, sand
For the grown-ups
- Stripes and white denim
- An outfit for formal night
- A warm layer for windy decks
For the kids
- Swimsuits for every day
- Something dressy for formal night
- A hoodie for the evenings
For photos
- Navy and white with a red accent
- Sail-away on deck
Caribbean cruise weather and what's happening
Typical daytime highs and what each month feels like with kids.
| Month | Typical high | What it's like | Don't miss |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 83°F 28°C | Dry and sunny. Peak cruise season. | |
| February | 83°F 28°C | Dry and sunny. Peak cruise season. | |
| March | 84°F 29°C | Dry and sunny. Peak cruise season. | Spring break sailings are busy and full of families. |
| April | 85°F 29°C | Dry and sunny. Peak cruise season. | Spring break sailings are busy and full of families. |
| May | 87°F 31°C | Hot and sunny with warm water. | |
| June | 88°F 31°C | Hot and sunny with warm water. | Hurricane season. Expect possible itinerary changes, and get travel insurance. |
| July | 89°F 32°C | Hot and humid. Itineraries can change for storms in hurricane season. | Hurricane season. Expect possible itinerary changes, and get travel insurance. |
| August | 89°F 32°C | Hot and humid. Itineraries can change for storms in hurricane season. | Hurricane season. Expect possible itinerary changes, and get travel insurance. |
| September | 89°F 32°C | Hot and humid. Itineraries can change for storms in hurricane season. | Hurricane season. Expect possible itinerary changes, and get travel insurance. |
| October | 88°F 31°C | Hot and humid. Itineraries can change for storms in hurricane season. | Hurricane season. Expect possible itinerary changes, and get travel insurance. |
| November | 86°F 30°C | Hot and humid. Itineraries can change for storms in hurricane season. | Hurricane season. Expect possible itinerary changes, and get travel insurance. |
| December | 84°F 29°C | Dry and sunny. Peak cruise season. | Holiday sailings are festive, with decorations and special events onboard. |
Caribbean cruise with kids, answered
When is the best time to visit Caribbean cruise with kids?
The best time is Dec–Apr. Dry and sunny. Peak cruise season.
What's the weather like in Caribbean cruise?
Typical daytime highs range from about 83°F (28°C) in January to about 89°F (32°C) in July. See the month-by-month table on this page.
Do I need a passport for Caribbean cruise?
Yes. Bring a passport for everyone, including babies, and make sure each one is valid for at least six months past your trip. Check visa and entry rules before you go.
What kind of plug adapter do I need for Caribbean cruise?
None. Caribbean cruise uses the same plugs as the US.
What's your top tip for Caribbean cruise with kids?
Even on closed-loop cruises, I recommend passports. They make any travel hiccup far easier.
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I'm Kristina, and planning family trips is what I do.
As a luxury travel advisor with KM Luxe Travel, I plan the hotels, the flow of the days, and the little details, often with perks like breakfast and upgrades when available.