Wondering what to pack and what to wear on a cruise? On my first cruise, I packed way too much stuff that I did not need and clothes I didn’t wear! After several cruises later, I learned to pack smarter and only bring what I truly needed. Here are some tips to help you plan what to wear and pack for your next cruise.
CRUISE ATTIRE
Formal Dress Nights: There are 2 formal dress nights on a 7-day cruise, so you will need to pack 2 formal outfits. I have seen everything from ball gowns to more casual black dresses for formal night. Dress up however much you want! How often do you get to do that? So, have fun with it.
Mix and Match Clothing: Bring clothing that you can mix and match with each other so that you pack less! For instance, bring 2-3 pair of shorts and/or skirts that you alternate with different tank tops instead of 7 pairs of shorts for each day!
Days At Port: You will have 3 – 4 days at port on a 7-day cruise. Think about what you might want to wear at port and consider what type of excursions you will partake in so that you are prepared. Good walking shoes are always important so bring comfortable shoes or sandals.
Remember, your mix and match items should include the clothing that you wear during days at port.
Days At Sea Attire / Lounging Clothes – During your days at sea keep it simple and relaxed. Imagine lounging by the pool with a cocktail in hand! People are very casual throughout the day so shorts, light summer dresses or even beachwear is appropriate.
LIST OF ITEMS TO PACK
Beach Bag – Beach bags make it easy to carry things like a towel, reading material, a camera and sunscreen to the pool or beach.
Hat and Sunglasses! – You will need these in the hot sun!
Shoes -Nothing makes luggage heavier than shoes! Try bringing only 1-2 comfortable pairs of shoes/ sandals for walking and lounging. Also, bring only 1- 2 pair of nice heels for dinner that will match all your outfits.
Sunscreen – This is vital. My favorite sunscreen is by Thinksport which is free of chemicals, waterproof and reef safe. It blends into the skin well without the yucky white film of many sunscreens. By far, the best natural sunscreen I have used thus far.
Snorkel Gear – Have you ever rented bad snorkel gear or used the cheap ones from tour companies? Are they even sanitized? Yuck! Bringing your own gear will give you a better underwater experience and also allow you the freedom of snorkeling from a beach without requiring a tour. A great way to save money on a cruise too!
I love the full face masks by Tribord and I never go to a tropical getaway without it. You can find some recommended snorkel gear below.
Related Content: Full Face Tribord Snorkel Gear Review
Waterproof Pouches – Waterproof pouches can allow you to take pictures with your phone at the pool, beach or even underwater. I can even store money and my ID in the pouches when I get in the water so that I don’t have to leave them unattended in my beach bag.
Waterproof Cameras or Underwater Cameras – Underwater cameras have become fairly affordable lately with many budget options. While I love gopro, some of the budget cameras work very well too. Here are a few to consider.
I hope you have a great time on your cruise, you are in for a great adventure! Have questions? Leave them below in the comment section.
RELATED VIDEOS:
In the video below “What To Wear On A Cruise” I will show you what I pack on a cruise and what to wear. Enjoy!
Click here to watch video.
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