I’m a cruise expert and these are the five items I would NEVER bring on board

When packing for a cruise, it’s important to always leave certain items at home.

Some are fire hazards, some are illegal, and some pose an allergy risk. And yes, they scan your bags to check.

Will Sarson, Product Director at Riviera Travel, shares his perspective on the matter and reveals the five items you should never take on a cruise vacation.

Will says, “When packing for a cruise vacation, it’s important to do your research to understand the list of prohibited items.

‘This can help you plan your packing better and avoid disappointment when items are confiscated.’

Alcohol

Yes, you can drink alcohol on most cruises (provided you are of legal age), but it is not advisable to bring many bottles.

Will notes: ‘While alcohol is not strictly prohibited on cruise ships, most companies have some restrictions in place to prevent travelers from bringing large quantities on board.

Often, travelers are only allowed to bring one bottle of wine or champagne, and if they drink alcohol in public places, they have to pay a corkage fee.

‘Given the large amount of alcohol on board, we recommend that you leave the bottles at home to avoid further costs. Instead, you can make use of the drinks that are available throughout the ship and in various ports around the world.’

An iron or steam iron

Will says: ‘Like extension cords, irons and steam irons are not allowed on board many cruise ships as they pose a fire hazard’

This is seen as a major safety risk at sea, but is often forgotten by holidaymakers.

Will says: ‘Like extension cords, irons and steam cleaners are not allowed on board many cruise ships because they pose a fire hazard.

‘This is an item that continues to surprise people, as travellers are forced to take their iron or steamer with them.

‘To avoid disappointment, it is best to leave these items at home. Many ocean and river cruises have irons or steamers on board that guests can borrow during their stay.’

Candles and incense

Will notes: ‘All flammable items, such as candles and incense, are rightly prohibited on cruises because of the fire risk they pose’

For reasons similar to the ban on irons and steam appliances, the open flame and the ash from incense and candles are considered dangerous.

Will notes: ‘All flammable items, such as candles, are rightly banned on cruises due to the fire risk they pose. While candles can provide a relaxing scent and are great for setting the mood, they are also incredibly dangerous – which is why cruise staff are quick to confiscate these popular items.

‘Similarly, incense products fall into the same category. Like the rest of the items on this list, skip the candles and incense!’

CBD oil

“CBD oil is not allowed on cruises due to different legal regulations around the world,” says Will

“CBD oil is a popular wellness product that provides relief from physical pain and mental health issues,” the cruise expert says. “But it’s not allowed on cruises due to varying legality around the world.

‘While the product is legal for sale and retail throughout the UK, this is not the case in certain cruise ship destinations. As a result, the substance is not permitted on board the ship.’

According to the WHO, CBD is legal in the United Kingdom, the United States, Mexico, Spain, Italy and many more countries around the world. ImpeccableCBDHowever, each country has different rules about whether you need a prescription and what the permitted THC content is.

Pets

Will notes: ‘Pets are not allowed on cruises due to allergy risk and the general health and safety concerns associated with allowing cats or dogs on board’

Will says: ‘While this should go without saying, you’d be surprised how many people try to board their cruise with pets. Pets are not allowed on cruises due to the allergy risk and general health and safety concerns associated with allowing cats or dogs on board.

‘However, animals such as guide dogs are allowed access because of the medical care they provide. If you are a pet owner with a cruise holiday booking, it is best to make arrangements for your animals as they are not allowed on board with you.’

What can you take on board?

The expert lists four essential things to remember: ‘While the items listed above are prohibited, it is also important to remember the essentials, including travel documents, swimwear, toiletries and a guidebook or map of future destinations.’

Will adds: ‘In general, when packing for a cruise holiday, it is vital to research the list of prohibited items. Many cruise ships vary in strictness and restrictions can vary depending on the type of cruise – emphasising the importance of research.’