10 Clothing Items you need on a cruise Updated

Feb 1, 2016 I published my original what you need to pack post, wow over 10 years ago. Truth be told apparently I modified it slightly in 2020 but today in 2026 I thought we should look at our suitcase with fresh eyes. Let’s see how my cruise style has changed over time.  One thing for sure, the footwear is totally different.

 

I feel like I should put a disclaimer on the post and truly tell you my list is developed for those who love clothes and embrace the opportunity to dress up. My cruise packing list is not intended to be literally interpreted to mean “one”  when I list an item, i.e. when I say Bathing Suit/Swimwear, you understand I don’t mean just one right? I am not sure I have ever gone on a cruise and taken just one of something. Even my hats are in multiples. 10 Clothing Items you need on a cruise in “multiples.

 

 

This list is meant strictly to provide guidance to you if you want to embrace the experience

 

1) Swim wear/bathing suits – still the most obvious choice to pack. One piece of advise, pack based on your adventures and your mental comfort level. But remember, anything goes, really if you want to wear a two piece, embrace it. I do. Cruise Ships are made for swimsuits

2) Cover-up(s) the rule of the day is a cover up is great for anything,  for sea days its prudent to have a cover up so that you can head into the buffet or restaurant without having to head back to the room. Cover Ups are also perfect for in shore activities. You can leave the Cruise ship with only your cover-up on and it is perfectly acceptable.

3) If you plan any excursions then you may need a casual day outfit, sundress, shorts and a tee. And I say may need because many people wear a swimsuit and coverup for many excursions. For day looks honestly don’t pack an outfit for everyday usually one piece will work for several day.

4) Long dress/Cocktail dress for Cruise Elegant night ( check ahead many cruises actually have two elegant nights so you may want to pack an extra. and don’t forget theme night like White Party or Scarlet Party for Tropical Night)

Cruise Wear Continued

 

5) Attire for the other few nights, for me this entails still cocktail dresses but many people do go for a more casual “Day Dressy” look.  For this item my recommendation is, if you plan on eating at the sit down restaurant ( which I highly recommend) it is a great occasion to still dress up ( and again check the theme night schedule, makes packing a dream)

6) Footwear- flip-flops/sandals, a dressy shoe and a sneaker/loafer/tennis shoe ( now if you have planned hiking excursions adjust accordingly but I am on a leisure vacation so just a comfortable walking shoe. For me I stick with sandals and glitter sneakers, no heels left in me.

7) Hat (s)– depending on your style a baseball cap/ cowboy hat, floppy brim hat or if you are like me a straw fedora, quick tip, Carnival sells the most awesome straw Fedoras on board the ship for 10.00.

Trust me on this one, I own so many, but honestly you don’t need more than one.

 

9) rain poncho ( dollar store variety that you can just take anywhere.  You never know when a rain shower may hit and why let a little wet dampen the mood, its not like its cold. Plus the poncho can be used to keep your belongings dry.

10) Handbag/crossover bag/tote– remember no-one wants to have to worry about their purse on the beach but a nice beach tote plus a smart wristlet is perfect. The wristlet can pull double duty, holder of key and phone at the beach as well as around the ship.

 

That’s it 10 essential pieces that I guarantee you will find useful, now if you are like me, try to narrow down which seven swimsuits and cover ups you want to take because really two suitcases is the max and honestly one will do.