Cruise Trip Packing: Clothing, Shoes, Toiletries

For those preparing for an upcoming cruise, one of the single most common questions – especially for first-timers – involves what to pack. While certain items you’ll need to bring on this sort of trip are somewhat obvious, there are other areas where cruisers often wonder whether they need to pack their own items or whether the cruise ship will be providing them.

At Cruise Lady: Latter-day Adventures, we’re proud to not only offer a variety of cruises and land tours, from Mediterranean cruises to the Panama Canal and numerous other areas of the world, but also expertise for those who are taking their first cruise or are unsure about what to pack. This two-part blog series will go over all the important packing areas to be keeping in mind for any cruise, from the more obvious items to some you may not have thought of.

Clothing and Shoes

The key for proper packing when it comes to clothing, shoes and similar items that will make up the bulk of your main baggage: Consider the cruise’s itinerary and planned activities. Look for whether there will be formal activities, for one – you’ll need to pack properly if this is the case.

For another, look into what sorts of shore excursions are planned and what you think you’ll need here. If you’re going to any beach or water location, pack proper bathing suit and related attire. If you know you’re going somewhere where it can get cold at night, pack at least one set of long sleeves. Finally, be sure you have proper shoe options for any location, including close-toed shoes for locations where they’re necessary.

Toiletries

Some cruise lines offer complementary shampoo and conditioner products, and possibly even a few others, but we generally recommend packing your own toiletries. This is for two reasons: Firstly you’ll be sure you have the proper items for you, and secondly you’ll never worry about the cruise line not stocking certain products you need.

Carrying Bag

While your primary bags will be left on the cruise ship during shore excursions, you should have at least one tote bag, backpack or similar carrying bag to bring with you. This is perfect for holding various items, from your passport to sunscreen, a towel and more.

Sunscreen and Lotions

Speaking of sunscreen, it’s important to pack for the trip along with any other lotions or moisturizers you use. Cruise trips tend to come with quite a bit of time in the sun, and keeping the skin protected here is not only good for your health – it will also keep you protected from painful and annoying sunburns that could ruin a day or two of the trip.

For more on how to pack for an upcoming cruise trip, or to learn about any of our cruises or land tours, speak to the staff at Cruise Lady: Latter-day Adventures today.