Luggage for a Cruise Holiday: UK Traveller's Guide 2026

What luggage should you take on a cruise from the UK? Think about your cruise operator's baggage rules, how you are getting to the port and where you will store the case in your cabin. There is no single cruise-wide allowance that applies to every line or itinerary.

Check the journey before choosing a case

Check your booking and your cruise operator's latest baggage rules before packing. For P&O cruise-only holidays, the luggage limit is 23kg per item. Other operators may have different limits, so check the rules for your sailing. If you fly to or from the port, check the baggage allowance on each flight too, including the permitted number of bags, their full dimensions and packed weight.

Choosing a main case

A medium or large case may suit a longer trip, but consider how much you can lift and the storage available in your particular cabin. Two manageable cases may work better than one very heavy case for some couples; others may prefer one. Compare the case's full external dimensions, including wheels and handles, and its packed weight with each relevant allowance. Browse our luggage sets for current choices, not a guaranteed fit for a ship or airline.

Hardshell or softshell?

A hardshell case offers a structured exterior that can be easy to wipe down. A softshell case may offer outside pockets and different packing flexibility. Neither type is automatically lighter, more secure or better at protecting formal wear and delicate items. Compare the individual case's empty weight, closure, interior and dimensions. Protect fragile or moisture-sensitive items separately. See our hardshell and softshell selections.

Features worth considering

• Wheels: Four-wheel spinners can be handy on smooth floors; rough pavements, steps and gangways may need more careful handling. Check the particular case.
• Locks: A recognised travel lock may be convenient if your journey involves US airport screening, but it cannot guarantee a damage-free inspection or prevent theft. Check what lock the case actually includes.
• Expansion: Extra capacity may be useful on the return journey, but a case expanded beyond the allowed dimensions may not be accepted by your airline.
• Organisation: Straps and dividers can help separate clothes in a compact cabin. Features vary by model.

A bag for time ashore

A small backpack or crossbody bag may be useful for carrying what you need in port, but you do not necessarily need to buy a separate one. Check any ship or excursion rules about permitted bags and valuables. Browse our bags selection for current options.

Should you buy a set?

A set can be worth considering if you will use several sizes on this trip and future journeys. It is not automatically better value than buying only the cases you need, and a case labelled “cabin” is not automatic airline approval. Compare the current set price, each piece's external measurements and your bookings before ordering.

Before you travel

Check the latest cruise and airline rules, weigh each packed bag, plan how you will carry it through terminals and keep essentials accessible in a permitted bag. Read the current product listing for price, dimensions, features and availability. Travel Smarter with Neil's Luggage Store.