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Packing for a cruise is one of the most exciting yet sometimes stressful parts of travel. Unlike airlines, which often have strict baggage restrictions, cruise lines such as MSC Cruises generally offer more generous baggage allowances. Still, there are rules every traveler must follow regarding the number of bags, weight limits, prohibited items, and special luggage needs.
Whether you are heading on a short three-night getaway or a world cruise lasting several months, understanding MSC Cruises’s baggage allowance will help you pack efficiently, avoid issues at embarkation, and ensure a smooth start to your vacation. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about MSC Cruises baggage policies, including hand luggage, checked luggage, restrictions, and packing tips.
MSC Cruises has relatively flexible baggage rules compared to airlines. However, the allowance depends on the itinerary and duration of your trip.
European cruises (Mediterranean, Northern Europe)Guests are generally allowed two pieces of luggage per person, with each piece weighing up to 23 kg (50 lbs).
Caribbean, South America, and other international cruisesSimilar guidelines apply, usually two bags per person at 23 kg (50 lbs) each.
World cruises or extended voyagesGuests are allowed more generous allowances, typically up to 100 kg (220 lbs) per cabin, divided into multiple pieces of luggage.
These allowances are usually more than enough for most travelers, particularly since cruise cabins have limited storage space.
Just like airlines, MSC Cruises allows guests to bring a piece of hand luggage or carry-on bag onboard.
Size guideline: About 55 x 35 x 25 cm (similar to airline carry-on dimensions).
Weight limit: Typically up to 8–10 kg (17–22 lbs).
Purpose: Your hand luggage should include essentials such as travel documents, passports, boarding passes, medications, valuables, electronics, and a change of clothes.
Since checked luggage may take time to be delivered to your cabin, it’s smart to pack necessary items in your carry-on.
Many passengers confuse airline rules with cruise rules. While MSC Cruises allows generous luggage, your airline ticket may have much stricter limits if you are flying to the port. Always check both sets of rules:
Airlines: Often allow 1 or 2 checked bags (23–32 kg each) depending on class and route.
MSC Cruises: More flexible onboard, but you must first comply with airline restrictions to get your bags to the port.
If you’re flying economy with a 23 kg bag limit, you must stick to that even if MSC allows more.
Even though MSC allows multiple bags, keep in mind that cabins have limited storage space. Standard staterooms typically have wardrobes, under-bed space, and a few drawers. Bringing too many large suitcases can make your cabin feel cramped.
Best practice: Bring one large suitcase and one carry-on per person.
For longer cruises: Consider soft-sided luggage that can be folded flat and stored under the bed.
Like all cruise lines, MSC Cruises has a strict list of prohibited items that cannot be packed in either carry-on or checked luggage. These include:
Alcohol and beverages: Guests are not allowed to bring their own alcohol onboard. Bottles will be confiscated at embarkation.
Sharp objects and weapons: Knives, scissors, and firearms are banned.
Explosives or flammable items: Candles, fireworks, and fuel-based appliances.
Heating devices: Irons, kettles, hot plates, and coffee makers.
Drones: Restricted on many itineraries for safety and privacy reasons.
Violating these rules can lead to confiscation and, in extreme cases, denial of boarding.
Passengers who require medical equipment such as CPAP machines, oxygen concentrators, or wheelchairs are allowed to bring them onboard without issue. Always notify MSC Cruises in advance so the crew can prepare assistance if needed.
Families traveling with young children can bring strollers, baby formula, and diapers onboard. Bottle sterilizers are allowed if they meet safety guidelines.
Items such as scuba gear, snorkeling equipment, and golf clubs may be allowed but must often be stored securely when not in use. Always check with MSC before bringing large sporting gear.
On embarkation day, the process works differently from airlines:
At the terminal, porters collect your checked luggage and deliver it to your stateroom later in the day.
You should keep valuables, medication, and essentials in your carry-on bag.
Luggage may not arrive in your cabin until several hours after boarding.
On the last night of your cruise, you’ll be asked to place your checked luggage outside your cabin. Staff will collect and transport it ashore for pickup in the terminal.
Keep a carry-on bag with overnight essentials, clothes for the morning, and important documents.
Follow the baggage tags provided by MSC for smooth collection.
To make the most of your baggage allowance, here are some practical tips:
Pack light: Bring versatile clothing that can be mixed and matched.
Check dress codes: MSC has formal nights, so pack evening attire.
Bring a carry-on with essentials: Medications, documents, electronics, swimwear, and a change of clothes.
Use packing cubes: Helps maximize space and stay organized.
Consider laundry services: MSC ships have laundry options, which means you don’t need to overpack.
Label your bags: Use MSC luggage tags and personal identifiers to avoid mix-ups.
Q1. How many bags can I bring on MSC Cruises?
Typically, two checked bags per person weighing up to 23 kg (50 lbs) each, plus one carry-on.
Q2. Are there extra charges for luggage on MSC Cruises?
No, there are no extra charges for bringing luggage onboard, unlike many airlines.
Q3. Can I bring food or drinks in my luggage?
No, outside beverages and perishable foods are not permitted, except for baby food and medical items.
Q4. What if my luggage is overweight?
MSC staff generally do not weigh bags, but excessive baggage may be restricted due to cabin space and safety limits.
Q5. Can I bring a suitcase larger than airline size?
Yes, oversized luggage is usually accepted, but storage in your cabin may be limited.
Imagine you and your partner are sailing on a 7-night Mediterranean cruise with MSC:
You each bring one checked suitcase weighing 22 kg and one carry-on with essentials.
At embarkation, your large bags are collected at the terminal and delivered to your cabin by the evening.
On the final night, you leave your suitcases outside your cabin for collection.
The next morning, you disembark with just your carry-on bag.
This smooth process highlights how MSC makes baggage handling easier compared to airlines.
MSC Cruises offers passengers a generous baggage allowance compared to airlines, making packing for your vacation far less stressful. With two checked bags per person, plus carry-on luggage, you should have plenty of space to bring everything you need for your trip. However, it’s important to remember restrictions on alcohol, prohibited items, and airline limits if you are flying to your departure port.
By packing wisely, keeping essentials in your hand luggage, and avoiding prohibited items, you’ll ensure a smooth embarkation and disembarkation experience. Whether you’re sailing on a short Caribbean escape or a world voyage, understanding MSC Cruises’s baggage rules will help you travel with confidence and start your journey stress-free.
Your ultimate guide to cruise adventures. Discover amazing destinations, find the perfect cruise, and create unforgettable memories on the high seas.
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