Cruise Wear for Women What to Pack for Your Next Vacation

Are you getting ready for a cruise vacation and wondering what clothes to pack? As a woman, it can be overwhelming trying to decide what to wear on a cruise. You want to look stylish, yet comfortable, and also make sure you have the right outfits for all the activities onboard and off the ship. Well, fret not! In this article, we will guide you through the must-have items for your cruise wardrobe, so you can relax and enjoy your vacation in style.

1. Daytime Cruise Wear: From Poolside to Excursions

What to pack

• Swimsuits (at least two)
• Cover-ups (sarongs, sundresses)
• Shorts and tank tops
• Sunhat
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Sunglasses
• Lightweight jacket or cardigan
• Active wear (for excursions)

Whether you plan to lounge by the pool or explore the ports of call, daytime activities on a cruise require comfortable and versatile clothing. Start with swimsuits, as they are essential for pool time and water activities. It is recommended to bring at least two so you can alternate between them while one is drying. A cover-up is also a must-have, whether you prefer a sarong or a sundress. These will come in handy when strolling around the ship or heading to the dining area for lunch.

For daytime outings and excursions, pack a few pairs of shorts and tank tops. These can easily be mixed and matched to create different looks. A sunhat is also a great accessory to protect yourself from the sun’s rays. Don’t forget to bring comfortable walking shoes, especially if you plan on exploring the ports of call. And of course, sunglasses are a must for both style and eye protection.

As the evenings can get chilly on a cruise, it’s always a good idea to pack a lightweight jacket or cardigan to throw on when needed. And if you have any active excursions planned, make sure to bring appropriate clothing and footwear for those as well.

What not to pack

• High heels
• Formal wear (unless specified by the cruise line)
• Bulky jackets

Cruise vacations are all about relaxation and comfort, so leave your high heels at home. They are not practical for walking around the ship and can take up valuable space in your luggage. Similarly, unless your cruise line has stated a specific dress code for formal nights, there is no need to bring formal wear on your trip. And lastly, bulky jackets are unnecessary as most cruise ships have central heating to keep you warm.

2. Evening Cruise Wear: Dress to Impress

What to pack

• Cocktail dresses
• Maxi dresses
• Jumpsuits
• Dressy sandals
• Accessories (jewelry, clutch)

Evening activities on a cruise are a great opportunity to dress up and look your best. This is the time to bring out your cocktail dresses, maxi dresses, and jumpsuits. These versatile pieces can easily be dressed up with some statement jewelry and dressy sandals. Pack a few options so you can switch up your look throughout the trip.

What not to pack

• Too many formal outfits
• Uncomfortable shoes

As mentioned earlier, unless specified by the cruise line, there is no need to pack multiple formal outfits for your trip. It’s always better to have a couple of dressy options that can be mixed and matched rather than bringing a different outfit for each evening. Also, make sure to pack comfortable shoes that you can walk in, as you may need to navigate through the ship or dance the night away.

3. Casual Cruise Wear: Relax and Unwind

What to pack

• Maxi dresses
• Sundresses
• Shorts and t-shirts
• Casual sandals
• Swimsuit cover-ups (for the pool or spa)
• Comfortable loungewear

For days when you just want to relax and unwind, pack some casual pieces that are comfortable yet stylish. Maxi dresses and sundresses are perfect for this, as they are easy to throw on and can be dressed up or down. Shorts and t-shirts are also great for lounging around the ship, and a pair of casual sandals will complete the look.

If you plan to spend time at the pool or spa, make sure to pack swimsuit cover-ups that can easily transition from poolside to lunch. And for those cozy nights in your cabin, pack some comfortable loungewear to relax in after a long day of activities.

What not to pack

• Formal wear
• Uncomfortable clothing

When it comes to casual cruise wear, avoid packing any formal outfits. This is a time to relax, so there is no need to dress up. Also, make sure to avoid any uncomfortable clothing, such as tight jeans or restrictive tops. Comfort should always come first on a cruise vacation.

4. Cruise Wear Tips: How to Make the Most of Your Luggage Space

Pack Versatile Pieces

The key to packing for a cruise is choosing versatile pieces that can be mixed and matched to create different looks. This will save you space in your luggage and give you more options to work with during your trip.

Organize by Outfit

To make getting ready easier while on vacation, try organizing your outfits by day and occasion. This way, you won’t have to spend time deciding what to wear each day and can focus on enjoying your vacation.

Choose Wrinkle-Free Fabrics

Avoid packing clothes that wrinkle easily, as ironing facilities may not always be available. Opt for wrinkle-free fabrics like polyester, rayon, and nylon, which will save you time and hassle.

5. Must-Have Accessories: Complete Your Cruise Look

Hats

Apart from a sunhat, pack a few other hat options such as a baseball cap or a fedora to add some variety to your outfits.

Jewelry

Accessories can make or break an outfit, so don’t forget to pack some statement jewelry pieces to elevate your looks.

Scarves

A lightweight scarf can be a great addition to any outfit, whether worn as a cover-up or as a stylish accessory.

Reusable Water Bottle

Stay hydrated while on the go by bringing a reusable water bottle with you. Most cruise ships have refill stations, making it easy to stay hydrated throughout the day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I wear jeans on a cruise?

Jeans are generally acceptable attire on a cruise, but it’s always best to check with your cruise line for their specific dress code. Avoid wearing jeans to formal dinners or events.

Do I need to pack different outfits for each day?

No, it’s not necessary to pack a different outfit for each day. As mentioned earlier, choose versatile pieces that can be mixed and matched to create different looks throughout your trip.

Is there a dress code for dinner on a cruise?

Most cruise lines have a dress code for formal nights, which may require guests to dress up. However, for casual dinners, there is usually no specific dress code, and most guests opt for resort casual attire.

Should I bring my own towels for the pool?

Most cruise lines provide towels for guests to use at the pool, so there is no need to bring your own. However, some may charge a fee if the towels are lost or not returned.

What type of shoes should I pack for a cruise?

Pack comfortable walking shoes and sandals that can easily be dressed up or down. Avoid high heels, as they are not practical for walking around the ship.

Conclusion: Pack Smart for Your Cruise Vacation

Now that you know what to pack for your next cruise vacation, it’s time to start planning your outfits! Remember to choose versatile pieces, organize by outfit, and pack comfortable and wrinkle-free clothing. Don’t forget to accessorize, and most importantly, have fun and enjoy your well-deserved vacation!