Newhaven to Dieppe Ferry: Complete Packing Checklist

What should you pack for your Newhaven to Dieppe ferry crossing? This comprehensive checklist covers everything you need: essential documents, recommended items for the 4-hour journey, seasonal considerations, what NOT to bring, and specific checklists for families, overnight travellers, and pet owners.

For a smooth ferry crossing, pack: valid passports, booking confirmation, phone charger, snacks, entertainment (book/tablet), jacket/layers, any medications, and €20-50 cash. Everything else onboard can be purchased, but bringing your own food and entertainment saves money and adds comfort.

Last updated: December 2025

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📋 Quick Packing Summary

4 hours

Crossing
Duration

Light

Pack Light
Not Long Journey

Onboard

Food, Wi-Fi
Toilets

Essentials

Passport
Booking, Layers

✅ Documents ESSENTIAL – passport, booking confirmation
✅ Light packing recommended – 4-hour crossing, not overnight
✅ Entertainment advised – Wi-Fi slow, download content
✅ Layers crucial – temperature varies onboard/outside
✅ Food optional – available onboard but bring own to save money

Essential Items (MUST Bring)

These items are absolutely essential for your ferry crossing. Without them, you may be refused boarding or have a very uncomfortable journey.

🚨 CRITICAL ITEMS – Do Not Forget!

1. VALID PASSPORT (for every passenger)

Must be passport BOOK (not card)
Valid for entire trip duration
Babies and children need their own
Check expiry date 8 weeks before travel

2. BOOKING CONFIRMATION

Booking reference number
Can be on phone OR printed
Screenshot recommended as backup
Contains passenger names, vehicle details, sailing time

3. VEHICLE DOCUMENTS (if travelling with vehicle)

V5C registration document (logbook)
Insurance documents
Hire car papers if rental
MOT certificate (advisable)

4. PET DOCUMENTS (if travelling with pet)

Pet passport or Animal Health Certificate
Microchip documentation
Rabies vaccination certificate
Tapeworm treatment certificate (dogs, 1-5 days before)

5. PHONE & CHARGER

Mobile phone for booking confirmation
UK 3-pin charger (power sockets onboard)
Portable battery pack (optional backup)

6. MONEY

Credit/debit cards (widely accepted)
€20-50 cash (euros for France)
£10-20 cash (UK pounds for emergencies)

⚠️ Critical Reminder: Without valid passports and booking confirmation, you WILL be refused boarding with no refund. Double-check these items the night before travel. Put all essential documents in one easily accessible place (not buried in suitcase). See our complete check-in guide for document requirements.

Highly Recommended Items

These items significantly improve your comfort and convenience during the 4-hour crossing.

🧥 Clothing & Comfort

Jacket or hoodie – Ships can be cold, especially outdoor deck
Comfortable shoes – Walking around ship, stairs
Sunglasses – Bright reflections on water (summer)
Hat/cap – If going on outdoor deck
Travel pillow – Neck support for resting (overnight ferry)

📱 Entertainment & Tech

Book or e-reader – Wi-Fi won’t support streaming
Tablet with downloaded content – Movies, shows, podcasts
Headphones – Essential for videos/music
Portable charger – Backup battery pack
Laptop – For work (power sockets available)

🍎 Food & Drink

Water bottle – Must be under 100ml through security, fill after
Snacks – Crisps, chocolate, fruit, sandwiches
Thermos of hot drink – Coffee/tea (save money)
Packed lunch – Cheaper than onboard restaurant
Baby formula/milk – If travelling with infant

💊 Health & Personal

Medications – Any prescriptions in original packaging
Seasickness tablets – Take 30 mins before boarding
Hand sanitizer – Small bottle (under 100ml)
Tissues – Always useful
Glasses/contact lenses – Don’t forget!

💡 Money-Saving Tip: Bringing your own food and entertainment can save £15-25 per person. Restaurant meals cost £10-16, drinks £2-5, snacks £2-4. A packed lunch, water bottle, and downloaded Netflix shows cost nothing extra and work just as well. Wi-Fi is free but too slow for streaming.

Seasonal Packing Guide

What you need varies significantly by season and time of day.

☀️ Summer Essentials

PACK:

✓ Light jacket – Air conditioning cold indoors, wind on deck
✓ Sunglasses – Bright sun reflecting off sea
✓ Sun cream – If spending time on outdoor deck
✓ Hat – Sun protection on Deck 8
✓ Sunglasses case – Don’t lose them!
✓ Light clothing layers – T-shirt + hoodie combo

EXPECT:

Indoor temperature: 20-22°C (comfortable)
Outdoor deck: Can be 18-25°C but windy
English Channel wind: Always cooler than land
Sunshine makes outdoor deck popular

TIP: Even on warmest summer day, bring a jacket. The wind on the English Channel makes it feel 5-10°C cooler, especially at sea speed. Indoor areas are air-conditioned and can feel cold after an hour.

❄️ Winter Essentials

PACK:

✓ Warm coat – Essential for outdoor deck
✓ Scarf & gloves – If you want to go outside
✓ Warm layers – Fleece or jumper
✓ Closed shoes – Boots or trainers (not sandals)
✓ Thermal base layer – Overnight ferry especially
✓ Blanket/shawl – Extra warmth for resting

EXPECT:

Indoor temperature: 22-24°C (heated, comfortable)
Outdoor deck: 2-10°C with significant wind chill
Rain possible – outdoor deck wet and unpleasant
Most passengers stay inside in winter

TIP: Winter crossings are cozy indoors but brutal outside. The heating works well inside, so dress in layers you can remove. Outdoor deck is only pleasant in calm, dry weather. Bring entertainment as you’ll likely stay inside entire crossing.

🌙 Overnight Crossing Essentials

HIGHLY RECOMMEND BOOKING CABIN (£20-50)
See our prices page for cabin costs.

IF BOOKING CABIN, PACK:

✓ Toothbrush & toothpaste – Small travel size
✓ Face wash/wipes – Freshen up
✓ Change of clothes – Feel fresh on arrival
✓ Eye mask – Block out light
✓ Earplugs – Cabin walls thin
✓ Phone alarm – Wake up before arrival
✓ Slippers/socks – Cabin comfort

IF SLEEPING IN LOUNGE SEAT:

✓ Travel blanket or large scarf – Extra warmth
✓ Travel pillow – Neck support essential
✓ Eye mask & earplugs – Light and noise
✓ Comfortable clothes – Tracksuit or joggers
✓ Valuables in secure bag – Keep close

TIP: Overnight ferry WITHOUT cabin is manageable but uncomfortable. Reclining seats are okay but you won’t sleep deeply. If budget allows, book a cabin – the £20-50 cost is worth it for actual sleep and security. See our ships guide for cabin details.

What NOT to Bring

Avoid packing these items – they’re prohibited, unnecessary, or will be confiscated.

🚫 Prohibited Items

SECURITY WILL CONFISCATE:

✗ Large bottles of liquid – Over 100ml must be checked or discarded
✗ Sharp objects – Scissors, knives, razors (loose)
✗ Weapons – Anything that could be weapon-like
✗ Pepper spray – Not permitted even in checked luggage
✗ Fireworks or explosives – Obviously forbidden
✗ Flammable liquids – Petrol, lighter fluid (over 100ml)

WILL BE CONFISCATED AT SECURITY: If you bring these, you’ll have to throw them away at security checkpoint. Save hassle and leave at home.

⚠️ Unnecessary Items (Don’t Waste Space)

LEAVE AT HOME:

✗ Excessive luggage – 4-hour crossing, not a week away
✗ Heavy books – Carry weight, use e-reader
✗ Large toiletries – Not needed for 4 hours
✗ Towels – Provided in cabins if booked
✗ Food that smells – Inconsiderate to other passengers
✗ Valuable jewelry – Risk of loss/theft
✗ Formal clothing – Ferry is casual environment
✗ Hotel confirmation – Not checked at ferry

💡 Packing Philosophy: For a 4-hour ferry crossing, think “afternoon trip” not “expedition.” You need: documents, phone, layers, entertainment, maybe snacks. That’s it. Many first-time ferry passengers over-pack dramatically. Keep it simple!

Special Checklists by Passenger Type

Customize your packing list based on who’s travelling.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family Packing List

ADDITIONAL ITEMS FOR CHILDREN:

✓ Snacks & drinks – Kids get hungry, ferry food expensive
✓ Entertainment – iPad with downloaded shows, coloring books, toys
✓ Spare clothes – For inevitable spills
✓ Baby wipes – Multiple uses
✓ Nappies & changing mat – Baby changing facilities onboard
✓ Baby formula/milk – Pre-made bottles
✓ Blanket – For napping
✓ Dummy/comfort item – Anything they need
✓ Plastic bags – For rubbish/dirty items
✓ Small first aid kit – Plasters, paracetamol

ONBOARD FOR FAMILIES:

Children’s play area on Deck 6 (soft play, games)
Children’s menu in restaurant (£5-7)
Baby changing facilities (all decks)
Family seating areas
Microwaves available (heat baby food)

TIP: Book 4-berth cabin (£35-50) if overnight ferry – kids love bunk beds and it makes journey much easier. Give children responsibility for their own small backpack with toys/snacks.

👣 Foot Passenger Considerations

KEY DIFFERENCE: You carry EVERYTHING with you. Pack light!

LUGGAGE LIMITS:

No official weight limit
But you must carry it yourself
Large suitcases stored on vehicle deck (retrieve at arrival)
Hand luggage stays with you

RECOMMENDED:

✓ Wheeled luggage – Essential for ease
✓ Comfortable backpack – For essentials during crossing
✓ Crossbody bag – Keep valuables close
✓ Good shoes – Walking to/from stations

WHAT TO KEEP IN HAND LUGGAGE:

Phone, charger, wallet
Entertainment (book/tablet)
Snacks and water
Jacket/layers
Medications
Anything you need during 4-hour crossing

See our complete foot passenger guide for full details on luggage handling.

🐕 Pet Travel Packing List

ESSENTIAL PET DOCUMENTS:

✓ Pet passport (or Animal Health Certificate)
✓ Microchip documentation
✓ Rabies vaccination certificate
✓ Tapeworm treatment certificate (dogs, 1-5 days before)

PET COMFORT ITEMS:

✓ Lead & collar (must be on lead at all times)
✓ Water bowl & bottle of water
✓ Pet food & treats (for after crossing)
✓ Blanket or pet bed (if using kennel)
✓ Waste bags – For toilet breaks
✓ Favorite toy – Comfort item
✓ Pet carrier – For small pets

ONBOARD OPTIONS:

Option 1: Free kennels on vehicle deck (supervised)
Option 2: Pet-friendly cabin (£40-60)
< strong>Option 3: Pets can stay in vehicle (if vehicle passenger)

For complete pet travel requirements, see our dedicated pet travel guide.

Quick Reference Packing Checklist

Print or screenshot this checklist for easy reference.

✅ Ultimate Ferry Packing Checklist

DOCUMENTS (CRITICAL)

Valid passport (every passenger)
Booking confirmation
Vehicle documents (V5C, insurance)
Pet documents (if applicable)

MONEY & TECH

Phone & charger
Debit/credit cards
€20-50 cash (euros)
Portable battery pack

CLOTHING

Jacket or warm layer
Comfortable shoes
Sunglasses (summer)
Hat (winter)

ENTERTAINMENT

Book or e-reader
Downloaded content (tablet)
Headphones
Magazine/crossword

FOOD & DRINK

Water bottle (empty through security)
Snacks (crisps, chocolate, fruit)
Packed lunch (optional)
Thermos (optional)

HEALTH

Medications (in packaging)
Seasickness tablets
Hand sanitizer (under 100ml)
Tissues

📥 Save This Checklist: Screenshot or print this page for easy reference when packing!

Final Packing Tips

✓ Pack the Night Before

Don’t leave packing until morning of travel. Pack night before, check all documents, charge devices. Morning of travel, just add fresh food and check weather for clothing adjustments.

✓ Check Weather Forecast

Check weather for Newhaven AND Dieppe day before. The English Channel can be windy even when land is calm. Adjust clothing layers accordingly. When in doubt, bring extra layers.

✓ Download Entertainment Before

Ferry Wi-Fi won’t support Netflix/YouTube streaming. Download 2-3 movies, podcasts, or audiobooks night before. Or bring physical books. Don’t rely on internet entertainment.

✓ Use Clear Plastic Bags

Airport-style liquid restrictions apply. Put toiletries/liquids in clear plastic bag (100ml max per item). Keep easily accessible for security. Or better – avoid liquids entirely for 4-hour journey.

✓ Charge All Devices

Charge phone, tablet, laptop, portable battery night before. Power sockets available onboard but limited. Arrive with fully charged devices. Bring charging cables as backup.

✓ Separate Day Bag & Main Luggage

Use small backpack or bag for items needed during crossing (phone, snacks, book). Put everything else in main luggage. Makes settling into seat easier, less clutter around you.

✓ Consider Seasickness Prevention

If prone to motion sickness, take tablets 30 minutes BEFORE boarding. Once seasick, tablets less effective. Most crossings are calm but English Channel can be choppy, especially winter.

✓ Label Luggage

Put name tag on suitcases. If foot passenger with luggage stored on vehicle deck, labeling helps retrieve it at arrival. Include phone number in case of separation.

Frequently Asked Questions: What to Bring

What documents do I need to bring for Newhaven to Dieppe ferry?

Essential documents: (1) Valid passport for every passenger including children (passport book only, not cards), (2) Booking confirmation (printed or on phone), (3) Vehicle registration document (V5C) if travelling with car/van. Additional if applicable: pet passport and health certificates for pets, student/senior ID for discounts, parental consent if child travelling with one parent only.

Can I bring food and drinks on the ferry?

Yes, you can bring your own food and drinks onboard. Many passengers do this to save money. Facilities available: microwaves (free to use), hot water dispenser, eating areas throughout. Note: Water bottles over 100ml must be empty through security, then fill from taps/water fountains. Alcohol can only be consumed if purchased from ferry bar (licensing laws). Bringing own food saves £10-20 per person.

Should I bring entertainment for the 4-hour crossing?

Yes, highly recommended. Free Wi-Fi is available but too slow for video streaming (Netflix, YouTube won’t work). Download movies, TV shows, podcasts, or audiobooks BEFORE travel. Or bring books, magazines, crosswords. Power sockets available throughout ship for charging devices. A 4-hour crossing is long enough that entertainment significantly improves the experience.

Do I need to pack for overnight on the ferry?

Depends on crossing time. Daytime ferries (09:30, 17:00): No overnight items needed, it’s just a 4-hour journey. Overnight ferry (23:00, arrives 04:00): Highly recommend booking cabin (£20-50). If booking cabin, bring: toothbrush, change of clothes, eye mask, earplugs. If sleeping in lounge seat: travel pillow, blanket, eye mask essential. Overnight ferry without cabin is uncomfortable but manageable.

What clothing should I bring for the ferry?

Always bring layers. Indoor temperature is comfortable (20-24°C) but outdoor deck is significantly colder with wind chill. Summer: Light jacket or hoodie, sunglasses. Winter: Warm coat, scarf, gloves if going outside. The English Channel is always windier than land, making it feel 5-10°C cooler than air temperature. Most important: bring jacket even if warm day – you’ll need it on outdoor deck or if indoor air conditioning feels cold.

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