Cruise Packing

Get Packing for Your Cruise!

So you have your tickets for the cruise of your dreams and it is time to start packing for your journey. You may be struggling trying to decide what you really will need to have in your bags. It is always frustrating trying to ensure you have everything you will need while you are away without bringing a bunch of things that will never leave your suitcases. Read on for some tips to help you pack efficiently for your cruise vacation.

Day Wear:

For a week-long journey, bring about four bottoms that will go with several different tops. Keep them comfortable and neutral so they can be worn in several ways. Try not to pack too many T-shirts, as you will most likely buy some as souvenirs onboard the ship and at various ports of call. Sneakers are excellent for port excursions; however, comfortable walking shoes that look more formal are more versatile and will help save space in your luggage. Don’t forget to pack pajamas and underwear. A light jacket or sweater is a good idea even in warmer climates in case the ship’s air conditioning is cooler than what you prefer.

Shore Excursions:
The clothing you wear into ports of call should err on the conservative side. You do not want to offend local customs, nor do you want to draw attention to yourself as a tourist. Leave short-shorts and mini-skirts onboard the ship and instead wear modest casual clothing that will be comfortable for walking around. Layers are always a good idea, in case the temperature drops or rises during your stay. Make sure your shoes are well-broken in, as you may be doing a lot of walking. In tropical climates, you’ll want a large sunhat to help ward off the heat; a hat, windbreaker, and gloves are a must for cold weather cruises at any time of the year. A compact folding umbrella is always a good idea. And you’ll want to bring a filled water bottle along with you each time you come ashore.

Dining:

Many weeklong cruises will include at least two formal evenings. For these occasions, women should pack an evening gown or cocktail dress, men a dark suit or tuxedo. Dinner will be semi-formal most other evenings, requiring a jacket and tie for men and a nice dress or pantsuit for women. The first and last night’s dinners will generally be informal (not casual). Informal generally pertains to nice street clothing. Jeans, shorts, tennis shoes, and sandals are still not appropriate.

The main thing to remember when packing your suitcase is to only pack things you really love and that work well together. You can get away with packing much less if you have things that can be worn more than once in more than one way.