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Back to Packaging & Luggage

How should I pack for the cruise?

Pack to make embarkation screening easier, keep essential items with you, and avoid bringing prohibited items that could delay or prevent boarding.

Packing tips for smoother screening

  • Avoid garment bags with hanger hooks protruding from the top

  • Consider placing items in clear plastic bags inside your luggage to minimize handling by airport security screeners

  • Pack shoes on top of other contents in your luggage to expedite screening

  • Label the inside of your carry-on and checked luggage with your name and contact information

Screening and prohibited items

The screening process at embarkation is similar to an airport, and weapons and dangerous devices are prohibited and may result in denied boarding. For the most up-to-date travel information, refer to the Transportation Security Administration website.

Please Note: Firearms, explosives, fireworks and illegal drugs of any kind are prohibited without exception. For safety reasons hoverboards, drones, or similar devices/toys are not allowed on board our ship. Due to safety and onboard security reasons personal Satellite dish/receivers, routers and other internet related equipment are not allowed on board. For a list of prohibited items, click here.

What to keep with you (not in checked luggage)

Do not pack these items in checked luggage, since checked luggage might not be accessible at all times. Keep them close at hand in a purse or jacket pocket.

  • Passport

  • Medications

  • Cruise documents

  • Airline tickets

Holland America Line also strongly suggests keeping the following with you (not in checked luggage):

  • Perishables

  • Cash, credit cards, or debit cards

  • Jewelry, gold, silver, and other high value items

  • Securities, financial instruments, records, and other valuable or business documents

  • Laptop computers, cellular telephones, cameras, and other video or electronic equipment

  • Hearing aids

  • Electric wheelchairs and scooters

  • Binoculars

  • Film, videotape, computer disks, audio disks, tapes, or CDs

Holland America Line assumes no responsibility for the items listed above.

Baggage liability and coverage

If Holland America Line is liable for loss of, damage to, or delay of your property for any cause, liability will not exceed US$250 per bag, per guest, up to:

  • A maximum of two bags per guest for sailings 14 days or less, or

  • A maximum of three bags per guest for sailings 15 days or longer

The baggage policy is further detailed in the baggage section of your Cruise Contract. Additional coverage is available with the purchase of a Holland America Line Standard or Platinum Cancellation Protection Plan.


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