How To Pack for a Cruise

There’s never a bad time to go on a cruise, especially when you consider that it’s basically an all-inclusive way to see the world and luxuriate at the same time. One day you’re sunning on the deck; the next day, you’re wandering the streets of a new town, then back to your room in the evening after a delicious meal. There’s even excellent live entertainment onboard. What could be bad?

The only trouble, or challenge, is figuring out what you’re going to wear. After all, every place you visit has a bit of a different climate, not to mention the weather onboard the ship itself. Plus, once you’re on board, you’re stuck with the wardrobe you picked out. Sure, you can pick up a few items—a jacket or sandals, let’s say—when the ship is in harbor, but you can’t revamp your whole wardrobe. This is why it’s important to choose wisely. If you’re planning on heading out on a cruise sometime soon, you’ll need the following tips to make sure you’ve picked the best outfits for your adventure. Read on to learn everything you need to know.

Knowledge is power

This adage is always true, especially when it comes to making big decisions like the ones you’ll be making about what you wear on your vacation. Sure, you can’t know what the weather will exactly be like at each destination, but you can get a general idea. For example, is it the rainy season or the sunny season where you’re going? What was the average temperature in the region like last year at this time? These little tidbits of information can make the whole process a lot simpler.

Don’t underestimate wardrobe staples.

Some things are just basic wardrobe staples that you know you’ll need. For example, you can’t go wrong with a few comfortable maxi dresses in various vibrant colors and prints. White dresses are especially summery, and a long black dress can easily be dressed up with some well-placed accessories, jewelry, and maybe some strappy sandals for a special occasion. Plus, a long dress usually packs well, and the silhouette of a maxi will be flattering to all body types—curves or none.

Use discounts and coupons to buy an array of outfits

Of course, you’ve just spent plenty of money on the cruise itself, so you don’t want to be emptying your bank account to buy new dresses and new shoes. That said, a vacation is a perfect excuse for some shopping, and if you use coupons or discounts, you can do it right. Check out which wardrobe items are on sale, but don’t dilly-dally since many sales are for a limited time. Prioritize comfort over glamour (you’re going on a cruise, not to a red carpet event) and buy some rompers or wrap dresses in your favorite colors instead of sequined gowns. One or two outfits for special occasions should do the trick—everything else should be fun and casual.

Don’t forget footwear and accessories!

No shoes, no shirt, no service, right? As you pick out the clothes you’ll be taking, don’t forget that you need something fr your feet as well—and that should be comfortable as well. Read online about the best boat shoes and sandals. Footwear that has a perfect fit will allow you to wander the streets of Venice or Rome longer than ill-fitting fancy boat shoes or sandals would. Bring some moccasins as well, or slippers, as well as flip-flops that you can wear around the ship. Paired with the right accessories and jewelry, you’ll look like a million bucks, and you’ll be comfortable at the same time!