Cruise traveling is all about being comfortable. If you want to be embraced by relaxation, totally forgetting about all the work and stress, there is nothing like being in the sea. You don’t have to worry about stopovers just so you can go to the restroom, walk around to get your blood circulating to your legs, or to stretch your back because it was hurting. Everything is available to do, and the ship will continue sailing on.

But what people can’t get right is which clothes to pack for the trip. It’s understandable since we can’t even pack properly for a two-day retreat or even an overnight at your friend’s house. So before you start looking for your cruise destination, booking a ticket, and securing a cruise travel insurance, here is a guide on what you should be packing for your trip.

Basic necessities

For every travel, you will need toiletries. So do not forget your hair and dental hygiene products on your trip. But since you are going to be at sea for most of the time, you need to pay close attention to skin protection, as well. This is more than just bringing a hat or a large scarf to cover your skin, you will need to bring UV protection. The recommended SPF is at least 30, which gives 97% percent protection from UV rays. Additionally, you need to bring sunglasses of course!

Carry-on bag

If you don’t know yet, your checked-in luggage will arrive directly in your storeroom. So if you’re looking to change to your swimsuit as soon as your board, you should have it packed in your carry-on bag. Apart from your swimming attire, you should also have the following:

• Travel documents
• Extra change of clothes
• Medication (if needed)
• Toiletries (only your dental products and sunscreen will do)

You can just pack a small bag for this since your luggage will probably be in your storeroom after your swim.

Clothes for different activities

On a cruise, while clothing is not too strict, there are attires for different venues.

• Bring casual and laid-back clothes. These are perfect for exploring the ship, taking a stroll on the deck, and for when you need to disembark and exploring a new destination. Note that you can only wear your swimming attire at the pool deck and bring a cover-up for getting to and from the pool. Slippers may be used for breakfast and lunch. If your kids are coming along, you may want to check out some fun children clothes to bring with you for the trip.
• Smart Casual and formal attire. For dinner, your attire would have to be either smart casual or formal, depending on if the dinner for the day requires a black-tie look. If you don’t need to wear evening dresses or suits, you can opt for just collared shirts, blazers, simple dresses, skirts, or pantsuits.

For footwear, you will not be allowed to walk around barefoot. So other than your usual casual and formal footwear, you must bring flip-flops. Additionally, bring the proper workout clothes if you are planning to use the fitness centre.

Off-board travel

Once you get off the ship, you might need to bring a couple of things with you so that you can maximise your trip.

• Camera – for capturing local life and culture
• Travel guides – to get suggestions on where to go and eat
• Mobile phone – other than Instagram and Snapchat, load up your mobile with apps such as currency converters, translation guides, and itinerary organiser

Oh, and don’t forget your hat, sunscreen, and a light jacket.

Make sure you have all that you’ll need for your cruise travel, and don’t forget to join in on onboard activities and explore to your heart’s desire once the anchors go down.