Talk to Your Cruise Agent
Always ask your cruise agent about any specific clothing needs for your particular ship. Some ships have special requirements that may affect your packing plan. Although you can purchase many items on ship or in cruise ports, you will often pay a heavy
premium, and may not find exactly what you need. For example, film for your camera will cost
significantly more once you leave home and you may not find the size or speed you require.
Planning for Souvenirs
If you're planning to buy t-shirts, hats, etc. on the ship or ports of call, why not wear them on your
cruise? You'll cut down on the amount of clothing you'll bring, and you wont need to plan for extra
space on your trip home. If you under-packed (unlikely), you can purchase additional clothing during
the cruise.
Packing Your Carry On
Plan your carry-on load carefully. A larger carry-on bag (within airline carry-on requirements) is
useful so that you can comfortably carry a change of clothing. Keep your carry-on bag safe when
you're in the airport; never leave it unattended.
Divide and Conquer
If traveling with a companion or spouse, divide
your checked items into two (or more) suitcases. That way, if one is lost, you
will both have some clothing to wear! It would be terrible for your spouse to
have all of his clothes and you to have nothing but your carry-on. Also, be sure
to carry-on anything that you cannot live without for a couple of days (or
more), just in case your luggage is lost or delayed.
Traveling with Jewelry
If you choose to travel with expensive jewelry (not recommended), use the purser's safe when you're not wearing it.
Although room safes are available on many ships, only valuables locked up in the purser's safe are
covered under the ship's insurance (check you cruise contract, usually supplied with your cruise
documents).
Formal nights are not necessarily extremely formal.Some passengers, who enjoy dressing up, will
go all out with tuxedo's, long gowns, etc. On most seven-night cruises, this is not necessary. The
majority of men wear a suit or blazer with white shirt and conservative tie on formal nights. Many
women wear cocktail dresses, fancy dresses, or suits. Its like getting dressed for a nice wedding.
Young boys can wear nice slacks with a shirt and a tie. The more expensive the ship, the more likely
that formal wear will be worn.
Use the Ship's Laundry Facilities
Many ships have self-serve laundry and ironing facilities in addition to the available washing and/or
dry cleaning. Sometimes it makes sense to do a load or two during the cruise rather than pack
enough of everything for your entire trip.
