31 Cruise First Aid Kit Essentials You Need to Have

April 10, 2025

31 Cruise First Aid Kit Essentials You Need to Have

3–5 minutes

As you’re checking off items on your cruise packing list, don’t forget one of the most important things you’ll bring: your cruise first aid kit.

No one wants to deal with cuts, sunburns, headaches, or unexpected stomach issues on vacation but they happen. Having your own mini medical kit means you can handle minor issues quickly and stress free, without relying on the ship’s limited (and expensive) convenience store.

💡 Pro Tip: I keep a ready-to-go cruise first aid kit at home. Before each trip, I do a quick inventory and restock anything that’s running low as it makes prep so much easier!

Why You Should Bring Your Own Cruise First Aid Kit

While your cruise ship does have a medical center onboard, it’s designed for more serious issues and it’s not open 24/7. Convenience shops onboard have a limited selection of basic meds and first-aid supplies, and prices can be steep.

Save yourself the hassle (and a headache) by bringing your own compact, customized kit. Here’s what I recommend packing:

🩹 Minor Wound Care Essentials

Band-Aids – Assorted shapes and sizes, including waterproof and blister-specific types.
Blister Bandages – A must if you’re breaking in new sandals or walking more than usual.
Antibiotic Ointment – Great for cuts and scrapes; speeds up healing and prevents infection.
Hydrocortisone Cream – Soothes bug bites, rashes, or minor skin irritation.
Gauze & Alcohol Wipes – For cleaning and covering minor wounds.

💊 Over-the-Counter Medications

Pain Relievers – Bring what works for you (Advil, Tylenol, etc.).
Cold & Sinus Relief – Non-drowsy meds are best so you can still enjoy your vacation.
Cough Drops or Syrup – Sea air can be dry, and colds happen.
Prescription Meds – Pack enough for your trip + at least 14 days extra, just in case.
Cold Sore Medicine – If you’re prone to fever blisters, don’t forget your go-to treatment.
Eye Drops – A lifesaver for irritated or dry eyes caused by sun, wind, or saltwater.
Ear Drops – Especially if you’re prone to swimmer’s ear.
Thermometer – Helpful for keeping an eye on health if anyone starts feeling off.

🧰 First Aid Tools

Tweezers – Handy for splinters, ticks, or removing debris.
Travel Flashlight – For peace of mind in case of a power outage or emergency.

🤒 Stomach & Digestive Care

Antacids – For heartburn, indigestion, or a queasy stomach.
Imodium – Just in case of traveler’s tummy or unexpected digestive upset.
Rehydration Tablets – Great after a long day in the sun or if you’re feeling run-down.
Laxatives – A change in routine or diet can easily lead to bloating or constipation.

🌞 Sun & Skin Protection

Sunscreen – Go for a reef safe SPF, especially for Caribbean cruises.
Aloe Vera Gel – A soothing after-sun essential if you overdo it on Day 1.
Lip Balm with SPF – Protect those lips from drying or burning!

🦟 Bug Bite Relief

Mosquito Repellent – Especially important for jungle or rainforest excursions.
Calamine Lotion – Helps reduce itching and swelling.
After Bite – Compact and effective for minor bites or stings.

🤧 Allergies & Reactions

Benadryl – For allergy relief or unexpected reactions to food, products, or the environment.

🌊 Seasickness Solutions

Motion Sickness Patches – Applied behind the ear, these are a top choice for many cruisers.
SeaBands – A natural, drug-free option loved by adults and kids alike.
Bonine or Dramamine – Reliable, over-the-counter relief (we’re big Bonine fans!).
Ginger Candies – Natural and gentle; perfect for light queasiness.

🧼 Sanitation & Everyday Safety

Hand Sanitizer – Always have one in your bag especially useful on excursions.
✅ Pro Tip: Keep a few mini first-aid kits in Ziplock bags.
These are perfect for port days, your beach bag, or even the plane. Toss in a few band-aids, ointment, antacids, and pain relievers for quick access on the go.

Be Prepared, Not Stressed

Having a well-stocked first aid kit is one of the smartest things you can pack for your cruise. From bug bites to blisters to motion sickness, you’ll be ready for whatever the vacation throws your way and won’t have to waste time or money searching for what you need onboard.

Have I missed anything? Let me know in the comments what you keep in your cruise first aid kit or if you’ve ever needed something you forgot to bring!