What to Pack for a 3-Night Cruise (Glam Grandma Edition) | Utopia of the Seas Packing List
- Paige Evatt
- May 2, 2025
- 4 min read
Utopia Cruise Packing
Let’s be honest: short cruises hit different. You’ve only got a few days to soak up the sun, sip something fruity, and make memories that’ll live longer than your tan lines. So the last thing you want to do is overpack (or under-pack) and end up feeling unprepared. Especially if you’re traveling with kids and your mom—like I am!
My mom has never cruised before—but after hearing about all the fun we had last time and getting thoroughly convinced by her grandsons, she finally said yes. So now we’re headed out on a three-generation adventure together: my boys, my mom, and me. Honestly, I don’t know who’s more excited.
This packing list was made with one person in mind: my fabulous, sunhat-wearing, BRAND NEW TO CRUISING mom. Whether you're a Glam Grandma, a seasoned Royal Caribbean traveler, or just along for the ride (much like my mom is for this cruise!), this is the perfect go-to packing list for a 3-night sailing on Utopia of the Seas.
Utopia of the Seas Packing List
👗 CLOTHING
The first question is always - what should we wear?! And this is what takes up the most room in your suitcase, so having some guidance on what to wear is one of the first things my clients ask when planning for their cruise. While each itinerary comes into play, this is the absolute best packing list for the 3-night Bahamas & Perfect Day Cruise OR a 3-night Perfect Day Getaway Cruise.
Travel day outfit (wear something comfortable, especially if you're flying or driving in!)
Embarkation outfit with swimsuit underneath OR packed in your carry-on, plus a dry change of clothes
Casual daytime outfits for:
Day one exploring the ship
Nassau port day
Perfect Day at CocoCay
Travel day home
1–2 swimsuits (or more if you're a water baby!)
Pool cover-ups (bring several—these double as casual outfits on the ship)
Sun hat (with chin strap + SPF protection if possible)
Sunglasses
Flip flops or pool sandals (non-slip bottoms are a must!)
3 dinner outfits (cruise chic, not cruise formal)
Evening shoes or wedges
Cardigans or wraps (bring more than you think—evenings get breezy)
Port day outfit (lightweight + comfy)
Walking shoes or sandals
One of my favorite companies for cruise clothes is Halara for their moisture-wicking, shorts-included, still-look-cute gear—perfect for cruising.
🛄 TOILETRIES
If you're flying to your cruise port, you'll want to stick to TSA-approved sizes for your liquids and gels. But even if you're driving in, space is still tight once you're on board. Cruise cabin bathrooms aren't exactly spa-sized, and getting ready spaces can get crowded—especially if you're sharing with family. Bring only what you actually need, and skip anything that's just taking up room.
Toothbrush + toothpaste
Shampoo + conditioner (Royal only supplies a shampoo/body wash combo)
Razor
Hairbrush or comb
Makeup
Makeup remover wipes
Moisturizer
SUNSCREEN! (Lots of it. You’ll thank me later.)
Lip balm
Deodorant (don’t forget it!)
Medications
Pain relievers
Motion sickness aid
📱 CRUISE ESSENTIALS
These are the things you absolutely can’t cruise without. From documentation to tech to small comforts, this list covers the essentials you’ll need from the moment you check in to the last pina colada by the pool.
Pro tip: anything that helps you stay organized (and charged) will earn its keep quickly!
Passport
Printed SetSail pass + printed luggage tags
Phone + long charging cord (trust me on this)
Portable charger
Royal Caribbean app (downloaded and logged in before boarding)
Lanyard or wristband for SeaPass card
Reading glasses / sunglasses
💅 NICE-TO-HAVES
This is the fun stuff—the little extras that make a big difference. These aren’t mandatory, but they are the items you’ll end up being glad you brought. From convenience to comfort to a little added glam, these things help make your cruise feel a bit more like home (but with better views and unlimited pizza).
Refillable cup or tumbler (unless you’re doing the soda package—they give you one!)
The Cutie Capootie Cup Carrier (Go to reason 6 in my blog about 10 ways to make cruising easier for the direct link)
Crossbody bag, belt bag, or small purse
Book or Kindle
Ziplock bags (wet swimsuits, leftovers, you name it)
Magnetic hooks (the walls are metal!)
Lightweight robe or lounge set (something cute enough for the breakfast buffet)
Small toiletry bag for beach/pool days
Jewelry organizer (because you will accessorize)
❌ SKIP THESE
Some things are better left at home. Whether it’s because they’re already provided on board or they’re just not necessary for a short cruise like this one, these items take up precious space and won’t do you any favors. Save your suitcase for the things that matter—like travel snacks, swimsuits, and sunscreen.
Beach towels (Royal Caribbean has you covered)
Hair dryer (already in the stateroom)
Iron or steamer (not allowed onboard)
Too many shoes (3 pairs MAX)
Extra formalwear (Utopia is fun, not fussy)
Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned seafarer, packing smart means more time to relax. And if you’re sailing with your daughter and grandkids like my mom is, you deserve to feel prepared, pampered, and perfectly dressed for poolside pina coladas.
Packing doesn’t have to be overwhelming—especially when you’ve got a guide like this to help you focus on what matters. Whether you’re a carry-on queen or a checked-bag veteran, you’ll feel confident knowing you’ve got the cruise essentials covered.
Bon voyage, babe. Utopia awaits!
Want more cruise tips? Check out some of my other favorite reads:
These blog posts are full of real-talk travel tips, honest advice, and that signature Mrs. Pie sweetness—just like this one.
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