Skip to content
CruiseDayGuide

What to Pack for PortMiami

The complete cruise packing checklist. Every essential item with explanations — so you don't forget anything for your cruise from PortMiami.

18 packing items · researched from public reviews and official sources

Packing for a cruise from PortMiami

Cruise terminals are not shops. Whatever you forget has to be bought before you reach the curb, so pack the checklist below and use these PortMiami notes to plan the last stop on the way in.

There's a small convenience area inside the terminal for last-minute items. For better selection, stop at a CVS or Walgreens on your way — the closest is on Biscayne Blvd, about 5 minutes before reaching the port.

There's a small convenience area inside the terminal for last-minute items. For better selection, stop at a CVS or Walgreens on your way — the closest is on Biscayne Blvd, about 5 minutes before reaching the port.

There's a small shop in the terminal for basics. The Royal Caribbean building nearby has cafeterias if you need a snack. For drugstore items, stop at CVS on Biscayne Blvd before reaching the port.

Limited options inside the terminal. Seaman's Center across from Terminal E has some supplies. Better to stop at CVS or Walgreens on Biscayne Blvd before entering the port.

No shops of note inside the terminal. Stop at a CVS or Walgreens on Biscayne Blvd on your way in — about 5 minutes before reaching the port.

Seaman's Center is directly across from Terminal E with basic travel supplies. There's also a cafe in the port administration building. For better selection, stop at a drugstore before entering the port.

Seaman's Center is directly across from Terminal E — the closest option for snacks and basic supplies. The port administration building also has a small cafe.

Limited options at the terminal itself. Seaman's Center near Terminal E has basics. Best to stop at CVS or Walgreens on Biscayne Blvd before reaching the port for any last-minute needs.

Very limited options at this terminal. The southside location means you're farther from the Seaman's Center. Definitely stop at a drugstore before heading to the port — Walgreens on Biscayne Blvd is your last good option.

Terminal V has some amenities that match Virgin's boutique approach, but selection is limited. Stop at a drugstore before arriving — CVS on Biscayne Blvd is convenient on your way to the port.

Forgot something? Stops near PortMiami

Publix — Downtown MiamiGroceries, snacks, water, sunscreen — closest grocery to PortMiami

311 SW 7th St, Miami, FL 33130

CVS Pharmacy — BrickellPharmacy, Dramamine, phone chargers, toiletries

1201 Brickell Ave, Miami, FL 33131

Target — Midtown MiamiEverything last-minute — clothes, toiletries, snacks, electronics

3401 N Miami Ave Ste 100, Miami, FL 33127

USPS — Downtown MiamiPost office — drop mail before you sail

150 SE 2nd Ave Ste 103, Miami, FL 33131

The complete cruise packing checklist

Packing for a specific itinerary or wondering what each cruise line actually lets you bring aboard? Read the full cruise packing guide, or jump to the Alaska and Caribbean lists.

Affiliate links. If you buy through Amazon we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you — it helps keep CruiseDayGuide free, and it never changes what we suggest packing.

Carry-On Day Bag

Pack these in a bag you keep with you at boarding — your checked luggage won't arrive until 3-4pm

Swimsuit and flip-flopsHead straight to the pool after boarding
Phone charger and portable batteryYou'll drain your battery exploring and taking photos on Day 1Amazon
MedicationsBoth prescription and OTC — don't risk them being in delayed luggage
Sunscreen (reef-safe)The pool deck sun is intense — apply before you even get on the shipAmazon
Government-issued photo IDRequired for boarding — keep it accessible, not buried in a suitcase
Snacks and water bottlesKids get hungry in the boarding line. Sealed snacks are allowed through security
Change of clothes for each kidPool splashes, spilled drinks, cruise ship excitement — be ready

Cruise Essentials

Things that make the whole trip better

Magnetic hooks (for cabin walls)Cabin walls are metal — these give you hanging space for hats, lanyards, wet swimsuitsAmazon
USB multi-port charger (no power strip)Cabins have 1-2 outlets, but most cruise lines now ban power strips and surge protectors outright — a USB-only charger is not confiscated at security
Packing cubesCabin drawers are small — cubes keep things organized in tight spacesAmazon
Insulated tumblerFill it at the buffet drink station — stays cold by the pool all afternoonAmazon
Lanyard for cruise cardYour cruise card is your room key, ID, and payment method — keep it around your neckAmazon
Night lightCabins are pitch black. A small night light prevents midnight stubbed toesAmazon

Easy to Forget

The things people buy overpriced at the port gift shop

Motion sickness remedyEven experienced cruisers can get queasy on rough sea daysAmazon
Wrinkle release sprayIrons aren't allowed on cruise ships — this saves your formal night outfitAmazon
Highlighter or penFor marking up the daily activity schedule — old school but effective
Waterproof phone pouchPool photos, water slides, port excursions — protect your phoneAmazon
Small whiteboard for cabin doorLeave messages for teens: 'We're at the pool deck' — most cabins don't have cell serviceAmazon

Want the complete PortMiami cruise guide?

Restaurants, activities, hotels, terminal tips, parking, packing lists, and boarding advice — all in one page.

View Full Guide