Last updated: 22 October 2026

Packing for a cargo ship is different from packing for a cruise. There are no shops at sea, no formal nights and no laundry service you can rely on every day, but there are steel decks, steep stairs, wind and weeks of quiet time. Use this freighter packing list to bring exactly what you need.

The essentials

• Passport, visas and printed copies of your booking, insurance certificate and medical certificate
• Medication for the whole voyage plus at least a week extra, with prescriptions
• Cash in US dollars or euros for the ship’s shop and port days
• Phone, chargers and a universal adaptor: sockets vary by ship and may be European, UK or US style
• A small first-aid kit with plasters, painkillers and seasickness tablets

Clothes for life at sea

Freighters sail through several climates in one voyage, and decks are windy. Pack layers rather than lots of outfits:

• A windproof, waterproof jacket
• A warm fleece or jumper, even for summer voyages
• Comfortable trousers and T-shirts for daily life on board
• A hat, sunglasses and high-factor sunscreen: reflection off the water is strong
• Swimwear, in case the ship has a pool
• One smarter outfit for an invitation to dinner with the captain or a port evening

Shoes: the most important item

Decks are steel, stairs are steep and surfaces can be wet. Bring flat shoes with good grip that cover your toes, such as trainers or deck shoes. Leave heels and flip-flops for your cabin or port days.

Seasickness and health

• Seasickness tablets or patches, even if you have never been seasick
• Ginger sweets or acupressure bands as a backup
• A reusable water bottle
• Earplugs and an eye mask, as ships are never fully silent or dark

Entertainment for long days at sea

Internet may be limited or unavailable, so prepare to be offline:

• E-reader loaded with books, plus a couple of paperbacks to swap
• Downloaded films, series, podcasts and music
• Offline maps and language apps for each port
• Binoculars for whales, dolphins and passing ships
• A camera with spare batteries and memory cards
• A journal, cards or a travel game for evenings

Practical extras

• Small torch or headlamp
• Laundry soap and a travel washing line
• Zip-lock bags for documents and electronics
• A day bag for port visits
• Snacks you love that you cannot easily buy on board

What not to pack

• Formal or evening wear beyond one smart outfit
• Drones, unless the captain gives written permission
• Anything flammable, such as camping gas
• Heavy hardback books and too many shoes

Luggage tips

Most freighter lines are generous with luggage, but you may have to carry your bags up the gangway and several flights of stairs. A medium suitcase plus a backpack is ideal. Label everything with your name and the ship’s name.

Frequently asked questions