When planning a cruise with Royal Caribbean International, one of the most common questions travelers ask is about baggage allowance. Understanding what you can bring on board, how much it weighs, and what restrictions apply is crucial for a smooth embarkation experience. This comprehensive guide provides detailed, reliable information on Royal Caribbean’s baggage policies, tips for packing smartly, and answers to frequently asked questions, all backed by authoritative sources and real-world insights.

Introduction to Royal Caribbean International’s Baggage Policy 

Royal Caribbean International does not operate flights directly but partners with airlines for cruise packages. Therefore, baggage allowance policies depend primarily on the airline used to reach the port. Once aboard, there is no formal weight restriction for luggage, but practical limitations exist due to cabin storage space.

Key Points:

• Cruise lines focus on safety, space, and accessibility, rather than weight.

• Standard advice: bring manageable luggage for ease of boarding and storage.

• Checked bags are typically handled by porters or crew, with tipping customary.

According to Royal Caribbean’s official website, passengers should pack responsibly and adhere to airline baggage rules before embarkation. Royal Caribbean Official Guidelines

Carry-On vs Checked Luggage 

Carry-On Luggage

Passengers are encouraged to bring essential items in a carry-on, including:

• Travel documents (passport, boarding pass, ID)

• Medications and prescriptions

• Electronics (phone, camera, tablet)

• Valuables (jewelry, wallets)

• A change of clothes for the first day

Tip: Carry-on luggage should be easily stored in the cabin or under the bed, typically a small suitcase or duffel bag.

Checked Luggage

Royal Caribbean cruise passengers usually check their bags at the pier, where porters handle them to the stateroom.

Recommendations:

• Tag all luggage with your name, stateroom number, and contact information.

• Avoid overpacking; cruise cabins have limited closet and drawer space.

• Consider collapsible bags for souvenirs or shopping during the cruise.

Weight and Size Limits

Unlike airlines, Royal Caribbean does not strictly enforce weight limits. However, practical considerations include:

Luggage Type	Recommended Weight	Max Dimensions	Notes
Carry-On	7–10 kg (15–22 lbs)	22 x 14 x 9 in	Fits overhead or under bed
Checked Bag	18–23 kg (40–50 lbs)	62 in linear (L+W+H)	Avoid overstuffing to ease port handling
Duffel / Tote	5–7 kg (10–15 lbs)	Flexible	Ideal for excursions or pool gear

Expert Tip: Overly heavy luggage can be difficult to maneuver at embarkation, particularly if using stairs or shuttle buses.

Prohibited Items on Royal Caribbean Cruises

Royal Caribbean strictly prohibits certain items for safety and compliance reasons. These include:

• Explosives, firearms, and weapons

• Flammable liquids or materials

• Drones or hoverboards (battery-related safety risks)

• Alcohol or illegal drugs brought onboard outside authorized limits

CDC & WHO Guidelines: Certain items, such as medical oxygen tanks or CPAP machines, require pre-approval for safe storage and use onboard.

Practical Tip: Check CDC Cruise Travel Health Guidelines before packing for medical devices or restricted items.

Packing Tips and Recommendations 

1. Roll, Don’t Fold: Rolling clothes saves space and reduces wrinkles.

2. Use Packing Cubes: Organize by category: casual, formal, swimwear, and accessories.

3. Layer Your Clothing: Weather in ports can vary; bring light layers for warmth and rain protection.

4. Limit Shoes: One pair of sneakers, sandals, and formal shoes is usually sufficient.

5. Bring Reusable Bags: Handy for laundry, souvenirs, or excursions.

6. Medical Essentials: Carry prescription medications in original packaging; consider a small first-aid kit.

7. Electronics: Power banks, adapters, and waterproof phone pouches can enhance the experience.

Special Considerations: Families, Accessibility, and Pets 

Families

• Children may require extra luggage for diapers, formula, or strollers.

• Label all kids’ luggage clearly to avoid confusion at embarkation.

Accessibility Needs

• Travelers with mobility aids or wheelchairs should notify Royal Caribbean in advance.

• Certain devices must meet safety standards and may require port handling assistance.

Pets

• Royal Caribbean does not permit pets on most cruises, except for service animals, which require pre-approval and documentation.

Handling Excess or Overweight Luggage 

If your luggage exceeds practical limits:

1. Repack: Remove non-essential items or split into multiple bags.

2. Ship Separately: Consider using a baggage shipping service to send items directly to your home or port hotel.

3. Check Airline Policies: Airlines typically charge overweight fees, not the cruise line.

Expert Insight: According to Consumer Reports, light, organized luggage reduces stress at embarkation and disembarkation, enhancing overall cruise satisfaction.

Comparison Table: Airline vs Cruise Baggage Policies 

Feature	Airline	Royal Caribbean
Weight Limit	23–32 kg per bag (varies)	No strict limit; practical 20–23 kg recommended
Size Limit	62 linear inches (158 cm)	No strict limit; fits cabin storage
Fees for Excess	$50–$200+ per bag	Based on airline; cruise does not charge
Carry-On Limit	1–2 items	1 small bag recommended
Security Screening	Required	Checked at pier, scanned in port security

 Guide to Preparing Your Luggage 

Step 1: Review airline baggage limits to avoid fees.

Step 2: Make a packing list for essentials, excursions, and formal nights.

Step 3: Use tags with your name, cabin number, and contact details.Step

 Step4: Pack a carry-on with first-day necessities, including swimwear and medication.

Step 5: Check prohibited items via Royal Caribbean and CDC guidelines.

Step 6: Weigh and measure luggage to ensure manageability.

Step 7: Arrive early at embarkation to allow porters to handle checked bags smoothly.

FAQs About Royal Caribbean Baggage Allowance 

1. How many bags can I bring on a Royal Caribbean cruise?

Passengers can bring multiple bags, but space in cabins is limited. Practical advice: 1–2 checked bags and 1 carry-on per person.

2. Does Royal Caribbean charge for luggage?

No. Cruise lines do not charge for baggage. Fees come from airlines or port shipping services.

3. Can I bring a backpack as a carry-on?

Yes, a backpack is ideal for carrying essentials, documents, electronics, and a change of clothes.

4. Are there weight limits for cruise luggage?

No formal limit, but 40–50 lbs per bag is recommended for ease of transport.

5. What items are prohibited onboard?

Explosives, weapons, drones, alcohol (outside limits), and illegal drugs. Certain medical devices require pre-approval.

6. Can I bring a stroller or car seat?

Yes, but notify the cruise line in advance for cabin storage considerations.

7. Are suitcases tagged at embarkation?

Yes, port staff tag checked luggage with stateroom numbers to ensure delivery to cabins.

8. What if my luggage is overweight?

Airlines may charge fees; cruise staff will still handle your bags, but consider repacking or shipping items separately.

9. Can I bring valuables onboard?

Carry valuable items in your carry-on. Cabin safes are available but limited in size.

10. How should I pack for excursions?

Use a small daypack for shore activities with essentials: water, sunscreen, camera, and personal items.

11. Can I bring my pet?

Service animals are allowed with pre-approval. Regular pets are not permitted.

12. Do I need to weigh my luggage at the port?

No, but weighing bags beforehand ensures easier handling and compliance with airline limits.

Conclusion 

Understanding Royal Caribbean International’s baggage allowance is about preparation and practicality. While there are no strict weight restrictions onboard, planning, packing smartly, and adhering to airline and safety guidelines ensures a smooth embarkation experience. Use these tips, follow official guidelines, and you’ll enjoy a hassle-free cruise vacation.