what to pack for 9 day mediterranean cruise

Mediterranean cruise packing list: What to pack when cruising Europe

Packing for a cruise in the Mediterranean has unique challenges. As an American, you'll definitely be flying rather than driving to your cruise port, so over-packing isn't a good option (unless you want to pay extra fees). Plus, the Mediterranean region is large and cruise ships regularly call at over a dozen different countries. The weather in the northern Mediterranean city of Venice can differ greatly from that of the cruise ports in the southern Greek islands like Santorini and Crete. Your packing list will have to adjust — especially if you're on a long cruise that covers lots of ground.

After five Mediterranean cruises , I've learned some tips and tricks to pack everything I need for cruising in Europe without needing a second suitcase or paying overweight baggage fees. Here, I share my packing secrets and a handy Mediterranean cruise packing list to streamline your vacation preparation.

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What to pack for a Mediterranean cruise

The dress code of your cruise line and how you expect to spend your time play a big role in what goes into your suitcase. On most cruise lines sailing the Mediterranean, you'll be fine with casual attire. Toss in a few items that allow you to dress up a notch in the evenings, and you'll have your onboard wardrobe all set.

How you expect to spend your time on vacation is also key. Your Mediterranean cruise shore excursions might include anything from hiking volcanoes and ancient ruins to attending cooking classes or wine tastings. You may be touring museums, cathedrals or mosques on some days and taking boat rides, lounging on the beach or doing water sports on others.

I find it useful to organize my packing around the activities I have planned, but throw in a few items that allow for spontaneity. For example, I always pack a swimsuit, even if I don't have any water activities planned. You never know when the hot tub will start calling your name.

Daytime clothing

Shorts, lightweight shirts, capris and sundresses all work well for most daytime activities on and off the ship throughout the Mediterranean during the warmer summer months. Plan on adding long pants and layers for spring and fall cruises. Hats, caps, visors and sunglasses are a good addition for excursions any time of year, as is a long-sleeve sun protective shirt. If your onshore adventures will take you to a church or mosque, plan to bring clothing that covers the knees and shoulders.

And remember that not all Mediterranean ports of call are touristy. In some cases, you will be walking city streets alongside businesspeople. Couple that with the fact that Europeans tend to dress a bit more conservatively than Americans, and you will find that what would fit in on a port day in Rome is a bit dressier than what you'd wear in The Bahamas.

Evening wear

Mainstream cruise lines in the Mediterranean like Royal Caribbean, Celebrity, Norwegian Cruise Line and MSC Cruises have casual buffet dining options if you prefer not to dress up for dinner, as does Viking. For most main dining rooms and specialty dining venues, eveningwear consists of slacks or skirts with nice shirts. If there is a dedicated formal night, jazz things up with accessories or a sparkly top, or go all-out with a suit or cocktail dress. Jackets and ties for men would be optional except on formal nights, where they would fit in nicely on most ships.

Related: Best Mediterranean cruises for every type of traveler

This is the clothing category that can bust your plan to pack lighter, but it's important to have the right footwear in Europe. With so many places to explore on foot, the most important shoes to pack for a Mediterranean cruise are comfortable walking shoes.

Beyond that, you'll need flip-flops or water shoes if there's a beach in your cruise plan, and a dressy pair of shoes for the evening. You could get by with a nice pair of deck-style shoes like Sperry's or hiking sandals like Tevas or Keens for almost everything if you can color coordinate with your outfits. I recently managed a nine-day cruise in the Mediterranean with a pair of slip-on hiking shoes, a pair of black Teva sandals and one pair of black heels, which I could have done without (and been more comfortable).

The number one piece of gear for a Mediterranean cruise is a day bag or backpack. I use a fold-up lightweight nylon backpack that allows me to carry snacks, bottled water, sunscreen and even a beach towel — anything I think I might need on a day in port — but still has plenty of room to stash my souvenirs. It's designed to zip up into its own built-in pouch the size of a large wallet, so it takes up little packing space or weight.

If you are a snorkeler, pack your own mask and snorkel so you can take advantage of surprise opportunities to see what's beneath those brilliant blue Mediterranean waves at the beaches of Sardinia, Santorini or even in Croatia. If you're a hiker, consider collapsible hiking poles — which can come in handy on walks to hilltop ruins. Photographers will want their camera gear if their cellphone camera won't cut it for vacation photos.

Packing tips for a Mediterranean cruise

It's easy to overpack for a Mediterranean cruise. To avoid that, choose a neutral base color like black, navy or tan and plan your outfits to mix and match that color scheme. Pick clothing items you can dress up or down as the event requires. Neutral colors will make you feel more at home throughout most of the Mediterranean, where daytime fashion is rarely flashy.

Keep your materials lightweight for hot summer afternoons, but plan for a possible added layer on board the ship, where air conditioning can be chilly. Lightweight layers also come in handy on cruises in March, April, October and November when daytime temperatures can be in the 50s and 60s.

I can get through a weeklong cruise with a base of two pairs of black shorts, a pair of black capris, a pair of casual black slacks and a black tank dress. I mix those up with lightweight shirts or tanks each day, dressier tops at night, some scarves and a black sheer blouse. Keeping clothes to a minimum leaves me more room for important things like snorkeling and scuba gear.

Related: Best Mediterranean cruise tips to enhance your European vacation

Many travelers check their bags on long flights to Europe. To hedge your bets should your luggage go missing, divide your necessary items among multiple suitcases, including your carry-on bags. That way you'll have a few clothing changes if one bag is lost.

Also, since Mediterranean cruises often begin with a preboarding hotel night, pack what you need for that first night in a packing cube in your carry-on to make it readily accessible, even in your jet-lagged daze. If your airline supplied an amenity kit, be sure to toss that in your carry-on for the first night so you aren't rummaging through your suitcase for a toothbrush. I have been known to make up my own little amenity kit if I'm flying cheap and know I won't get one from the airline.

Related: Carry-on vs. checked bags: Which is the better choice?

Mediterranean cruise packing list

Here's a handy packing list for your Mediterranean cruise.

• A casual, lightweight shirt for each day of the cruise.
• A few pairs of shorts, capris (perfect for days when you need more coverage either due to cooler temperatures or visits to religious sites), leggings or skorts and maybe a casual dress to wear during the day during summer. For spring and fall cruises, swap the shorts for slacks or jeans.
• Jacket, fleece vest or sweater for early- and late-season sailings.
• Unless you're a water fiend, one swimsuit is usually enough for the Mediterranean. There are simply too many amazing land-based things to occupy your time. Don't forget clothespins to make it easier to hang it in the bathroom to dry.
• A cover-up for the beach or onboard pool.
• Athletic wear and shoes if you plan to walk, jog, hike, cycle, work out in the ship's gym or attend any fitness classes.
• Jeans, slacks, collared shirts or nice T-shirts, capris, skirts or dresses for evenings on board. Take half of what you think you need, then re-wear evening clothes at least once. Plan to mix and match tops and bottoms to make this work even better.
• Jewelry, belts and accessories, along with a large scarf or shawl that doubles for warmth and as an appropriate cover-up for bare shoulders.
• Optional: True eveningwear if you plan to dress for an onboard formal night or just feel like putting on the glitz. This would include suits for men and cocktail-style dresses or pants and tops for women.
• Pajamas, underwear and socks. Mainstream lines supply robes (but rarely slippers) in suites and for repeat guests at certain loyalty levels. Premium and luxury lines usually have both robes and slippers in the room.
• A light rain jacket or poncho — with a hood — that fits into your backpack in case it rains.
• Sweater, dressy jacket, over-shirt or shawl for cold dining rooms and theaters onboard.
• Waterproof shoes or sandals if you plan on visiting the beach.
• Walking shoes, sneakers or hiking sandals.
• Dress shoes for the evening (unless you can coordinate your day shoes or sandals).
• Hats, caps or visors, plus magnetic hooks to hang them up in your cabin.
• Prescription medication and a first aid kit with common over-the-counter medicines.
• Sunscreen and after-sun lotion or gel.
• Cosmetics, toiletries and hair accessories.
• Ultra-lightweight tote bag and/or backpack.
• Re-useable water bottle and a reusable straw to do your part in keeping single-use plastics out of the ocean (and so you aren't stuck sipping your frozen Bellinis through the paper straws many cruise lines now use).
• Phone, camera, tablet and the associated chargers and spare batteries. Consider a multi-outlet adapter to expand the available USB and electric outlets in your cruise cabin.
• Sports gear you prefer like snorkeling equipment, hiking poles or your own bicycle helmet.

Bottom line

Packing for a cruise in the Mediterranean isn't that different from packing for any other cruise. Check the weather and the shoreside activities for each port, make sure you have a good pair of walking shoes, then double check your cruise line's recommendations for eveningwear and you'll be all set.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• 15 ways cruisers waste money
• 12 best cruises for people who never want to grow up
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise

Ultimate Mediterranean Cruise Packing List (+Printable Checklist)

Flannels or FlipFlops Travel Blog contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. See my disclaimer for more information.

Wondering what to pack on a Mediterranean Cruise? You’re in the right place! 

As a travel advisor and cruise specialist, one of the most frequent things my clients ask is “What should we pack for our cruise?” 

Embarking on a Mediterranean cruise is an exciting adventure, filled with picturesque ports, ancient ruins, and captivating experiences. To ensure a smooth and enjoyable voyage, proper packing is essential. 

It’s tempting to pack EVERYTHING you “might” need but keep in mind you’ll likely be flying to your embarkation city, so you will need to think about baggage fees, weight limits, and your ability to carry your luggage.  

You also need to consider the fact that you’ll have to be transported from the airport to your hotel and then to the port, having too much luggage can make it really hard to get up and down narrow streets, hallways, and staircases. 

​The golden rule of cruise packing is to lay out everything you think you need, and then put half of that away! 

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll provide you with the ultimate Mediterranean cruise packing list, covering everything from clothing and accessories to travel essentials. 

So, let’s set sail and get ready to explore the stunning Mediterranean region!

​Don’t feel up to reading the whole article? No worries, download a  FREE Mediterranean Cruise Packing List ⤵️

What to pack for a mediterranean cruise .

​Cruise Ship Essentials

​When packing for a Mediterranean cruise, it’s important to consider the unique features and activities offered onboard. Don’t forget to include these must-have items:

• Passport : Be sure it’s valid, doesn’t expire for at least 6 months after your cruise, has at least 2 empty pages and the name matches your cruise documents EXACTLY.
• Visa:  This is not always necessary, but check with the countries you will be visiting to be sure, some, like Russia, have very specific requirements for visitors.
• Boarding Pass  for Cruise and Airline:  Most of the time you can use the apps, but I like to have a hard copy with me just in case.
• Travel Insurance Policy Paperwork : I strongly recommend travel insurance that covers medical care in foreign countries.  It is not very expensive and is good peace of mind.  Keep in mind the insurance you purchase through the cruise line is usually just for your cruise fare, and is not comprehensive enough.  I like to use  Travel Insurance Master  to get free quotes on Travel Insurance, they make it easy to compare a few policies side by side. 

➡️ Check Prices on Travel Insurance by Clicking Here

• Excursion documents:  It’s a good idea to bring hard copies of any tickets, instructions, or other information that your excursion company has sent you. 
• Printed Luggage Tags:  After you have checked in, your cruise line will have luggage tags available for you to print out.  These will show your cabin number.  The exception to this is Disney Cruise Line.  They will not let you print them out but will mail you your luggage tags instead.  Don’t attach your cruise luggage tags until after you’ve gotten off your last flight and are ready to board the ship. 
• Credit Card:  Be sure and tell your bank that you are traveling so they don’t decline your transactions.

➡️ I like to use these plastic luggage tag holders to keep my tag secure and safe from tearing off

Supplemental items to bring on a Mediterranean Cruise

• Cruise Ship Lanyard : Keep your keycard handy and accessible at all times. Most cruise lines provide you with a keycard that unlocks your cabin door, allows you to make on-board purchases, and identifies you as you exit and return to the ship.  I like to bring an  inexpensive lanyard  to help me keep track of my keycard.  
• Day Bag : A lightweight and versatile bag to carry your essentials during shore excursions. You likely will not have access to your cabin when you board your ship, so having a carry-on bag is a great idea.  Pack it with a swimsuit, sunscreen, a book, and any medication you might need to get you by until your luggage is delivered in the evening. 
• Theft Proof Wallet or Purse : In busy areas, trains, and markets, you can be susceptible to pickpockets and theft.  I love to wear a cross-body purse (fanny pack or money belt) to keep my essentials close to my body.  This is a good one! ⤵️

• Toiletry Bag:  Pack travel-sized toiletries, including sunscreen ( reef safe ) , shampoo, conditioner, toothpaste, and any personal medications. There will be body soap, shampoo, and conditioner on board, but if you are picky like me, bring your own in small bottles. Don’t forget  lotion   and chapstick for after a day in the wind and sun!
• First Aid Kit : Include band-aids, pain relievers, motion sickness medication, and any other necessary medical supplies. While you can purchase most things on board, they will be super expensive.  I spend $12 on a bottle of eye drops last year! 
• Guide Books:  ​I like to carry a guidebook with me when I travel to look up things as I go. 
• Packing cubes : These may seem silly, I get it. For years I refused to buy them because I thought they were dumb.  Can I tell you how obsessed with them I am now? I freaking LOVE these things! They make my bags stay so organized, and keep me from overpacking too! These are my favorites ⤵️

Clothing and Accessories for a Mediterranean Cruise

​Choosing the right clothing and accessories will ensure you’re comfortable and well-prepared throughout your Mediterranean cruise. Consider these items:

• Formal Nights : Most cruises have formal dinners, so bring elegant evening wear, such as a cocktail dress or a suit and tie. Normally, on a 7-night cruise, there are 2 formal nights, you can check with your travel advisor to be sure. 
• Casual Attire : Pack lightweight and comfortable clothing suitable for daytime activities onboard and during shore excursions. Think shorts, t-shirts, sundresses, and lightweight pants. If you are  cruising the Mediterranean in the fall,  be sure and bring layers for cool evenings. 
• Socks and underwear:  Even if you are planning on wearing flip-flops most of the time, be sure and bring a few pair of socks.  Bring underwear for every day, and a few extras in case you want to shower and feel fresh mid-day after being in the humidity. 
• Swimwear : Don’t forget to pack your favorite bathing suit for relaxing by the pool or enjoying beach days at the various ports. I like to bring 2 so that I can always have a dry swimsuit to put on.  You can hang them to dry on the clothesline in your shower. Don’t forget a bathing suit cover-up to wear as you go to and from the pool to your cabin. 
• Comfortable Walking Shoes : Opt for sturdy and comfortable walking shoes for exploring ports of call and enjoying onshore excursions.
• Flip Flops : Perfect for lounging by the pool or strolling on the ship’s deck.  I also like Chacos  for hikes near water and rocky beaches.
• Lightweight Jacket or Sweater : Even during the summer months, evenings at sea can get breezy, so pack a lightweight jacket or sweater.
• Accessories : Remember to bring sunglasses, a hat, and a reusable water bottle.

⚓︎ Be sure and read about these Mediterranean Cruise Ports too!  ✅ Livorno Cruise Port ✅ Venice Cruise Port ✅ Barcelona Cruise Port ✅ Dubrovnik Cruise Port ✅ Cartagena Cruise Port

Destination-Specific Items to Pack on a Mediterranean Cruise

The Mediterranean region is rich in history, culture, and diverse landscapes. Consider these destination-specific items based on your ports of call:

• Ancient Ruins : If your itinerary includes ancient ruins like Rome’s Colosseum or Greece’s Acropolis, comfortable shoes are essential for exploring these historical sites.
• Religious Sites : When visiting religious sites such as cathedrals or mosques, modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees is respectful. Packing a lightweight scarf is a good idea if you are visiting the Blue Mosque in Istanbul. 
• Beach Days : If you plan to enjoy the beautiful Mediterranean beaches, pack a beach towel, water shoes, and a beach bag. While you can borrow a beach towel from your ship, they are often bulky and heavy, I prefer to bring my own  quick dry, lightweight towel . 
• Local Currency : Carry some local currency for small purchases or in case credit cards are not accepted everywhere. You can stop at an ATM at the airport to exchange currency. 

Cruise Line and Theme-Specific Items

Different cruise lines and themes may have unique requirements or activities. Consider these additional items:

• Formal Attire : Check your cruise line’s dress code for formal nights and pack accordingly. A dark suit or evening gown may be required.
• Theme Nights : Some cruises may have theme nights, so pack costumes or accessories to join in the fun.
• Cruise Line-Specific Items : Check your cruise line’s website for any specific recommendations or restrictions.

Electronics to pack for a Mediterranean Cruise

• ​Phone/charger
• Portable Charging Bank
• Go Pro/ Charger/ Memory Card
• Curling iron/flat iron
• A power strip (not surge protector) 

Toiletries to pack 

• Toothbrush/paste/floss
• Daily Medications
• Hand Sanitizer
• Shampoo and Conditioner
• Hairbrush/ Hair ties
• Deodorant ( I love Lume for all-over body deodorant )
• Shaving Cream/ Razors
• Feminine Hygiene Products
• Makeup remover
• Nail Clippers/File
• Seasick bands or meds (I like Bonine, but ginger also works)
• Poopurri (Cabins are small, and you will thank me later!)

Conclusion: 

With this comprehensive Mediterranean cruise packing list, you’ll be well-prepared for a memorable and stress-free voyage.

Remember to adapt the list to your specific needs, destinations, and cruise line requirements. By packing smartly and including the essentials, you’ll be ready to explore ancient cities, soak up the sun on stunning beaches

Chantelle Kincy

Chantelle is a nationally syndicated travel writer, and travel advisor. An avid cruiser, Chantelle has explored many parts of the world through her travels. She is also a dedicated National Parks enthusiast and loves to hike in these beautiful locations. To further her expertise in the industry, Chantelle has taken numerous courses to become a specialist in various destinations, including the Bahamas, Caribbean, Mexico, and Alaska. Through her blog and advising business, Chantelle shares her love for travel and helps others plan their dream vacations.

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Mediterranean Cruise Packing List: What to Pack When Cruising Europe

Mediterranean cruise packing list and pro packing tips for your Mediterranean adventure!

We’re setting sail for the sparkling Mediterranean soon (yay!). That means my Mediterranean Cruise Packing List made its way onto my desk this week! I was admittedly nervous. What will the weather be like? Will my shoes be comfortable enough? Should I pack more dresses or more shorts and jeans?

It’s been a few years since I’ve cruised to this region, so I dusted off the packing list, did a little research, *and did some serious SHOPPING ! Now, I can’t wait to share my Mediterranean Cruise Packing List with you! You can shop our Amazon Cruise Store ANYTIME to see our favorite cruise essentials for ANY cruise destination. We updated it weekly!

DISCLOSURE: *This article contains affiliate links, and we’ll earn a small commission when you shop our links.

So you’ve booked your dream European cruise to the Mediterranean, congrats! But before you get swept away in visions of turquoise waters, ancient ruins and charming piazzas, there’s that one crucial step: packing! You need a sensible Mediterranean cruise packing list. Don’t worry, I’ve been there, and I’m here to help you navigate the struggle to this unique destination. To help you conquer your packing list, I’m sharing all my essentials and some bonus tips for a smooth European cruise experience.

What’s so different about packing for the Mediterranean?

Packing for a cruise to Europe is unique in a few ways. First, you’ll likely be doing a LOT of walking to visit those historic sites (think cobblestones, lots of steps, and uneven streets). Next, you’ll likely be taking a LONG flight to get to Europe to begin your cruise. You’ll need some flight essentials you may not normally pack, to make your flight more comfortable.

Lastly, the summer months in Europe are HOT, and we mean…sweat dripping, don’t-get-dehydrated levels of HOT! You’ll want to focus on comfort, ease, and layers to make the most of your suitcase space! Of course, if you’re traveling during a milder season, please feel free to modify the packing list (more pants vs shorts, long sleeves vs short, etc).

We’ve outlined a complete Mediterranean Cruise Packing List below, starting with Flight & Travel Essentials, then Stateroom and Hotel Items to Pack, and finally, CLOTHING! Read to the end for luggage recommendations and bonus tips! Beneath each section, you’ll find shoppable resources for each category (clothing, toiletries, etc).

In this Mediterranean Cruise Packing List, we’ll cover:

• Pre-Cruise Essentials for Flight and Travel
• Stateroom and Hotel Essentials
• Clothing, Shoes and Accessories
• Luggage and Personal Items
• LOTS of “Hot Tips” throughout!

First things first, the essentials for your flight and travel:

• Security first:  Start with a crossbody bag (anti-theft optional), a small wallet, and a backup credit card (just in case!). Don’t forget your Euros and all your travel documents, including your passport, cruise boarding documents, and a handy folder to keep everything organized.
• Comfort is key:  Pack a scarf or pashmina for warmth on the plane and to cover your shoulders when visiting religious sites. A travel pillow, portable chargers, earbuds, and your favorite downloaded entertainment are lifesavers on long journeys.
• Stay prepared:  Sanitizing wipes, a sleep mask, snacks, a change of clothes, and a currency conversion app are all travel must-haves. Don’t forget to download a translation app – it can be a lifesaver when navigating foreign languages!

Here’s a quick sample checklist for your flight and pre-cruise travel:

• Crossbody bag:  Pick one with anti-theft features (such as locks and RFID protection) for peace of mind. Here’s an assortment of both crossbody and anti-theft options. I’m also packing a small purse to wear around the ship.
• Luggage & packing cubes: We’ll cover luggage fully at the end of this article. Be sure to grab some packing cubes to keep your suitcase organized!
• Airplane tray table cover: This handy cover will keep your items organized and clean on a long international flight!
• Universal phone holder: These amazing inventions can be affixed to the seat in front of you, OR used as a stand on your tray table. Great for use on the ship as well! I love using mine when I binge-watch Netflix shows on long flights!
• Small wallet:  Keep the essentials close and avoid bulky bags.
• Backup credit card:  Always good to have a plan B! HOT TIP : Pack a Visa or Mastercard, as American Express and other cards are not widely accepted abroad.
• Euros:  Get some cash exchanged beforehand for convenience. Another alternative- grab cash from an ATM at the airport, or ask your hotel concierge for a good ATM location nearby.
• Travel documents:  Keep passports and paperwork secure in a designated folder.
• Cruise documents:  Don’t forget these for smooth boarding!
• Scarf or pashmina:  Multi-functional for warmth, style, and covering up at religious sites. Also wonderful if your flight is chilly!
• Cozy socks: A nice pair of fluffy socks, and/or travel size (foldable) slippers are a life saver for long flights! These slippers go on sale often, and are very lightweight and small for packing.
• Travel pillow:  Essential for those long flights. Typically, I pack a travel pillow for any flight exceeding 6 hours.
• Portable chargers & cables:  Stay connected throughout your trip. Here are some of our favorite chargers for a variety of situations. Some even have built-in cables.
• Earbuds:  Block out the noise and enjoy your entertainment.
• Kindle or entertainment device:  Download movies, shows, or books for offline enjoyment.
• Sanitizing wipes:  Keep them handy for cleaning on the go. I have two faves – these pre-packaged wipes for meals and shore excursions, and a big pack for flights and stateroom use. Both are alcohol-based and FAR superior to others I’ve tried!
• Sleep mask:  Block out light for a restful sleep on the plane .
• Snacks:  Pack some healthy and filling options for your journey.
• Change of clothes:  Be prepared for any unexpected spills or delays.
• Translation app:  A lifesaver for navigating language barriers.
• Currency conversion app : Especially handy if you’re visiting multiple countries that don’t use Euros!
• Airline & Cruiseline App: Be sure to download your airline and cruise line apps before you leave for your trip!
• Cruise luggage tag holders:   Label your bags after your flight for easy identification. You don’t want them falling off mid-flight.

RESOURCES : Shop flight essentials . Shop anti-theft bags . For a deeper look at exactly what I pack in my flight carry-on (sleep mask, pill carriers, etc), this list will help.

Stateroom & Hotel Essentials Packing List

Once you’re onboard (or in your pre-cruise hotel), these stateroom essentials will come in handy:

• Travel adapter:  Make sure it’s compatible with the countries you’re visiting. HOT TIP: When in doubt, you can buy a universal adapter that works in many countries.
• Charging Solutions: You can choose from a variety of charging solutions for your stateroom and for days ashore. We suggest a USB hub for your stateroom, and 1-2 other chargers for your flight and excursion days.
• Hamper:  Keep your cabin tidy and organized with a travel-size hamper.
• Magnetic clips and hooks:  Maximize space and hang up clothes or towels (the walls of your stateroom MAY be metal) with these handy clips and hooks .
• Reusable water bottle:  Stay hydrated and eco-friendly! A travel water bottle will come in handy on the flight, on excursions, and on the ship!
• Wall mount itinerary: We have a free, customizable downloadable itinerary you can mount on your stateroom wall, or just carry with you. I slide mine into a sheet protector.

RESOURCES: Shop Stateroom Essentials .

Clothing & Accessories Packing List:

Now, let’s talk about the fun stuff: Clothes and Accessories!

Below, we’ll loosely list quantities and items you may want to add to your Mediterranean Cruise Packing List. Be sure to lay out your outfits before your cruise, to ensure they match. Better yet, try anything on that you haven’t worn for 6 months to ensure it still fits. Nothing is worse than grabbing a dress or suit out of your closet, only to find it just doesn’t make you feel good. Our bodies change over time, and through the seasons, so this tip is critical.

• Swimwear essentials:  Pack one swimsuit or cover-up, and if you’re cruising during the summer months or simply love those beach days, you might want to bring more.
• Shirts: 5-10 comfortable shirts (one per day of your cruise, and 1 per travel day).  Pack a mix of comfortable, breathable shirts (including sleeveless, short-sleeved, and long-sleeved options), shorts, and capri-style pants for different weather conditions. HOT TIP: Don’t forget a shawl or pashmina for extra warmth and to cover up for religious sites.
• Be prepared for breezy weather:  Pack 1 hoodie or light sweater, and a light jacket if you’re traveling outside the summer months. One sweater should be enough for a 7-night cruise if you’re traveling during the summer months.
• Daytime Casual Wear – Mix and Match:  Choose 3-4 pairs of shorts, jeans, or light pants to create various outfit combinations with the tops you’ve chosen.
• Don’t forget the basics:  Pack pajamas, undergarments, and socks. Rule of thumb on undies: pack 2 per day of your cruise. You’ll likely shower and change after long days of sightseeing, before dinner.
• Dress to impress:  For a 7-night cruise, pack 5 casual dresses (or suits/dress shirts & slacks with ties) for nighttime wear, and 2 elegant or formal dresses or suits for me for special occasions. If your cruise line has formal or “elegant” evenings, Here are some formal wear looks (dresses, shoes, and accessories) to get you started!
• Accessorize:  Pack your favorite sunglasses, hat, and jewelry to complete your look.
• Toiletries and first aid:  Pack all your essentials, and don’t forget bandaids – trust me, your feet will thank you! You can find a full list of toiletries in this Packing List Article . In general, you’ll want to pack cosmetics, toiletries , travel-size quantities of skin and hair care products, essential medications, and any other day-to-day essentials you may need. HOT TIP: If you tend to get motion sickness, consider packing motion sickness remedies .
• Shoes for every occasion:  Most people can cruise the Mediterranean comfortably with 3-4 pairs of shoes. Here’s how this breaks down. Pack comfortable walking shoes or sneakers, flip flops or sandals for the pool, wedges or sandals for casual dinners, and formal shoes for elegant nights. HOT TIP: if there is just ONE piece of advice you take away from this Mediterranean Cruise Packing List – it is to pack worn-in shoes ONLY. Packing new shoes is a recipe for blisters and discomfort, and that is no way to spend your cruise! Wear your shoes around the house, or town for a few weeks before your cruise. You’ll thank me later!
• Bonus tip:  Pack a lightweight tote bag for beach days, pool visits, and longer excursions.

RESOURCES: Shop Cruise Fashion for Men & Women, Shop Plus Size Fashion for Women, Shop Cozy Shoes for a Cruise. Motion sickness remedies are also a great help! Grab a lightweight tote for pool, beach and shore-ex convenience.

• Leave space for souvenirs!  You’ll want to remember your trip with some special mementos. Pack a suitcase (or personal item) that will allow a bit of extra space for those treasures!
• Download the weather forecast:  Pack accordingly for your destinations a few weeks before your trip.

Choosing Luggage and Travel Bags

• This  carry-on suitcase  is expandable and is sold by one of our favorite brands, Level 8!
• This  curated list  of carry-on luggage, luggage sets, and personal items will get you started!
• The right personal item bag makes ALL the difference. For the perfect “slides over your carry-on” bag for men and women, try this  weekender bag .
• We love  this personal item  too, as it slides nicely under the seat in front of you on the flight. It’s also hard side (vs fabric), so it doesn’t get as dirty as the fabric alternatives.
• Here’s a selection of  our favorite packing cubes   to get you more organized!
• If you’re in search of a  camera backpack , here’s one we bought for my husband’s gear.
• Don’t forget packing cubes ! Not familiar with them? Here are 5 reasons we love ’em, and how to use them !

And that’s it, cruise fam! With this handy Mediterranean Cruise Packing List and bonus tips, you’re all set to conquer the Mediterranean in style and comfort. Now, go forth and explore! With these tips and my handy Mediterranean Cruise Packing List, you’re all set for an unforgettable Mediterranean adventure! Bon voyage and HAPPY PLANNING!

Read more CruiseTipsTV articles here .

Suitcases are kind of a personal thing, IMO. Mine are “tried and true,” but they are old and scratched up, and I gravitate toward them for good reason! They work! With that said, here are some of my favorite brands and styles of suitcases, weekenders, personal item bags and full-size rolling luggage for your Mediterranean Cruise Packing List:

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Your Perfect Packing List for a 12-Day Mediterranean Cruise

For those seeking relaxation, stunning beaches, delectable food, and historically beautiful cities, a Mediterranean cruise is calling your name! If you’re thinking about booking your trip anytime soon, here’s what you need to know; from when to go to what to bring.

Travel on: A Mediterranean cruise

Why the Mediterranean?

Mediterranean Europe is undeniably one of the most beautiful, culturally rich, and exciting destinations in the world. From the ancient stone villages of Portugal to the quiet flare of Turkey, there’s an endless itinerary of beaches, culture, food, and history. Whether you’re looking for shorelines to relax on or ancient ruins to explore, there is truly something for every type of traveller . It’s that unique diversity that makes a Mediterranean cruise a perfect trip.

See Also: You Asked, We Answer: Are River Cruises Boring?

Why a cruise?

For many travellers , finding the ideal combination of relaxation and adventure can be tricky. It begins to feel like you have two options: booking a vacation or taking off on a backpacking journey – two things that are undeniably different. That’s why a cruise, specifically a Mediterranean cruise, is the perfect solution. You’ll be treated to all of the luxuries that come with a cruise, like lavish dinners, beautiful beaches, days by the pool, and a flawless tan. On the other hand, you’ll have time to explore ancient cities, hike unique landscapes, get to know the locals and indulge in history. There’s a difference between travel and vacation, and a cruise is one of the only ways to get that elusive combination of the two.

When to go?

The Mediterranean has unique seasons, each one different, offering various perks and experiences. Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide which season fits you best.

See Also: Adventurous Holidays for Couples

Summer (July/August)

Summer is the high season for travel in the Mediterranean. This is when the region is typically at it’s busiest, bursting with travellers looking to soak up the sun. The weather is hot, the water is warm, and the coastlines are filled with tourists. While it might be the most popular season, it’s that abundance in tourism that has lots of travellers opting for the shoulder seasons.

Spring (May/June) and Fall (September/October)

Spring and Fall are shoulder seasons and are widely considered the best time to visit. The crowds are much fewer, while the temperatures are comfortably warm and the sun is just as bright. In the Spring, the flowers are in bloom and the landscapes are lush and green. The fall brings mild days with beautifully crisp and clear skies. The water is a bit colder but definitely still swimmable, especially for those who love a refreshing dip.

Winter is the offseason in the Mediterranean, meaning there are very few tourists. You’ll get to experience the peaceful atmosphere of iconic destinations, without the crowds or cost increases. That being said, for a cruise, it might not be desirable. In fact, many cruise operators don’t ofter winter departures. The water is cold and rough, the days are chilly, and many excursions are closed or cancelled . The solitude is lovely, but in terms of cruising, the conditions aren’t as ideal.

See Also: The Most Affordable Places to Travel in Europe in 2019

What to pack?

Assuming you’re boarding your cruise during the warmer seasons, here’s everything you should pack to get the most out of your 12-day Mediterranean cruise.

• Walking Shoes: When you’re off the ship exploring, you’re going to want comfortable shoes. Sandals are great for while on board or at the beach, but running shoes are ideal for exploring when you dock.
• Flip flops: Opposite to your exploring shoes, a great pair of flip-flops or sandals are a must for while you’re at the beach or lounging on the deck.
• Bathing Suits: You’re going to spend a lot of time in the water, whether it’s in the hot tub or in the sea itself. Bring multiple bathing suits so you can continue enjoying the water even while the other bathing suit is drying.
• Sundresses: A sundress is perfect for lounging by the pool or wandering around the beach. Plus with the warm temperatures, it’s almost essential.
• Light shirts and pants: The weather is going to be hot, so come prepared with light t-shirts, tank tops, shorts, and breathable pants.
• Sunhat and sunglasses: To avoid sunburns or heat stroke, a sunhat and sunglasses can be a real lifesaver. It will make your adventures at port a lot easier to enjoy.
• A sweater or shawl: On occasion, the temperatures will dip a bit colder than comfortable. Having a sweater, shawl, or jacket can save the day.
• A dressy outfi t: Of course, you’re going to want to dress up a night or two and enjoy a fine dining experience. That’s why bringing at least one dressy outfit along with you is a must.
• Portable charger: If you want to stay connected, be sure to remember your portable charger. It’s easy to forget to charge your devices when you’re having a good time.
• Laptop or tablet: For the times that you’re on the ship and have some downtime, having a tablet or laptop helps keep you connected and gives you the chance to share photos and memories online.
• Camera or go-pro: Don’t forget a camera or go-pro to document your travels. The photo opportunities will be endless, so you don’t want to travel without one.

Miscellaneous

• Seasickness medication: It’s impossible to know how your body will react to a cruise. Better to be safe than sorry and pack some seasickness medication.
• Sunscreen: Nothing ruins a cruise like a sunburn, so make sure you’ve got a bottle of sunscreen with you everywhere you go.
• Photocopies of passport and travel documents: It’s always a good idea to travel with a photocopied version of your passport or other travel documents. Keep it with you at all times!
• Binoculars: There’s some really cool wildlife in the Mediterranean. If you want to catch a better view of the birdlife, seals, turtles, sharks, or rays, binoculars will make it a lot easier.
• Beach blanket: A nice big beach blanket will make your time on the beach much more enjoyable. Try to find something compact that’s easy to roll back up again.

From relaxing on board to hitting the pavement and getting to know the history, art, food, and culture the Mediterranean is known for, you’re sure to have an incredible time on your cruise. The best part? You’ll only have to unpack your perfectly-packed suitcase once, since you’ll be exploring destinations from the comfort of your cabin!

Have you been on a Mediterranean cruise? Where did you go?

Jesse Warner

Jesse is a blogger and content creator who loves travel, the outdoors, and her dog, Molly. When she isn't planning her next trip, she can be found watching Netflix documentaries, enjoying time by the water, or eating soft-serve ice cream. Follow her on Instagram , Facebook , or check out her blog .

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What to Pack for a Mediterranean Cruise – The Ultimate Guide

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Are you going on a Mediterranean cruise and wondering what to pack? Even for experienced cruisers, packing for a Mediterranean cruise can be a challenge.

If you’ve been on a Caribbean cruise , your Mediterranean cruise packing list will have some similarities. You’ll need cruise outfits for days and evenings, including formal nights on the cruise ship.

However, you’ll want to dress for the culture in the cruise ports, as well as the weather depending on when you travel.

What to Bring on a Mediterranean Cruise

When planning what to wear on a Mediterranean cruise , you’ll need to plan for the days and evening on your cruise ship, as well as days in port when shore excursions may be planned.

You’ll also need your travel essentials for any pre and post stays in your embarkation or disembarkation port, as well as your cruise essentials for your cabin.

In this post we go over:

• What to wear on a Mediterranean cruise (cruise ship & ports)
• What to wear on a Mediterranean cruise (Summer, Spring, Fall & Winter)
• What items to pack for a Mediterranean cruise (cruise & travel essentials)

This post contains affiliate links which means if you click and buy that I may make a commission, at no cost to you. Please see my disclosure policy for details.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

What to Wear on a Mediterranean Cruise

Whether you’re taking a 7 day or a 12 day Mediterranean cruise, you’ll need cruise outfits for sea days on the cruise ship, as well as days in port visiting. You’ll also need to plan for evening wear on your cruise ship.

If you want to pack light for your cruise , and avoid bringing too much luggage, you can definitely wear items more than once and pack a capsule wardrobe.

It’s a good idea to check your cruise line dress code, however in most cases a Mediterranean cruise will include 2 Formal, Elegant or  Chic Evenings . On most cruise lines this can mean anything from a suit or dress pants and shirt for men and cocktail dress to a Little Black Dress for ladies.

The other evenings will be have a casual or smart casual dress code.

These days, cruise line dress codes are more relaxed than just a few years ago. However, during the evenings on European cruises, many people do still dress up for dinner in the main dining room or specialty restaurants.

What to Wear in Mediterranean Cruise Ports

When planning what to wear in some of the cruise port cities in Italy, Greece, France or Spain, consider your shore excursions so you can plan accordingly.

You’ll want to be comfortable, but if you want to blend in just a little, you’ll want to be a bit stylish as well.

Casual clothing is just fine. However most Europeans don’t wear workout wear or yoga pants as streetwear, so you may want to save this type of clothing for the gym or for hanging out on the cruise ship.

While you can dress as you like, many people pack “nicer outfits” than you might for a Bahamas cruise , for example.

Sightseeing

In historic cities like Venice, Rome, Florence, Athens, you’ll likely spend time sightseeing, along with a lot of walking on uneven cobblestone streets. It’s very important to bring comfortable walking shoes . Save your high heels for dinners, shows and the casino on the cruise ship.

Always pack a lightweight scarf or shawl, pashmina or cardigan for when visiting religious buildings during summer months (to cover your shoulders). I also like to have a light sweater or shawl for the evening on the cruise ship, when the air conditioning can be cool.

You’ll also want to pack a money belt or neck wallet, and/or an anti-theft backpack or cross-body bag.

Unfortunately, pick-pocketing is not uncommon in many of the big cities including Rome and Barcelona. You’ll want to protect your passport, travel documents and other valuables at your embarkation ports as well as when visiting the ports of call .

Greek Isles

If you are going to Santorini, Mykonos or another Greek island, consider packing a white dress or white buttoned shirt and shorts. It looks striking against the backdrop of the azure blue sea and stunning landscape.

If you’re doing a Western or Eastern Mediterranean cruise during the summer months and planning a beach day in Barcelona or Mykonos, you can wear a sundress or shorts and a t-shirt over a bathing suit.

Beach wear isn’t welcome on the streets. It’s a good idea to have a cover up to wear at the beach and pack a beach bag or large tote .

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What to Pack for a Mediterranean Cruise in Summer

The most popular and busiest time time to go on a Mediterranean cruise is during the summer months. You’ll want to pack for hot, sunny days if you cruise in June, July, August and even early September.

If you’re going on a summer cruise, during the day you can dress quite casually. Shorts and a t-shirt or a sundress, or a bathing suit and cover up when hanging out on the Lido deck, are perfect!

Related: What I Wore on My Mediterranean Cruise

What to Pack for a Mediterranean Cruise In Fall & Spring

Early Spring and Fall months are consider shoulder season for Mediterranean cruises. Without the summer heat, April and May, and late September, October are are great times to visit ancient cities comfortably.

You’ll still have warmer days, but packing a light jacket is a must. A pashmina or scarf is a good idea as well. Since the weather can vary, wear layers and make sure to pack long sleeve tops and jeans or pants.

What to Pack for a Mediterranean Cruise in Winter

The winter months are a less popular and common time to cruise to the Mediterranean, however some cruise lines, like MSC Cruises, do offer sailings through the coolest months of the year.

If you’re going on a Mediterranean cruise in December or January, pack a jacket and scarf, as well as pants and sweaters to be comfortable when sightseeing.

Mediterranean Cruise Packing List

Here’s a list of the most  important things to pack for your cruise . I’ve included both cruise essentials that will be useful for any cruise, as well as things to bring that are specific for your Mediterranean Cruise. 

Passport & Government ID

The most important things to pack for your Mediterranean cruise is your passport and government ID. Make sure to have this on you, and  do not pack it in your checked luggage .

It’s a good idea to have a passport holder , to keep your passports and other important documents safe and secure. Don’t forget to make copies of your passport!

Recommended: Passport holder (RFID blocking)

Neck Wallet

An easy to conceal neck wallet is a very useful item to bring with you on a Mediterranean cruise. When traveling in crowded European cities, it’s really important to protect your money, passports and credit cards from pickpockets and petty theft.

Recommended: Neck wallet (RFID blocking – see Amazon reviews here)

Cruise & Travel Documents

Check with the cruise line to see what travel documents you will need. You may need a proof of vaccine or have to provide test results. This can vary by cruise line and itinerary, and is ever evolving, so make sure to check back regularly.

Carry-on Bag

Pack a carry on bag for your flight as well as for your cruise embarkation day. You cruise carry on bag should have the essentials you’ll need for the day you board your cruise , including medication, valuables, phone chargers and even a change of clothes.

A  small carry-on suitcase , weekender bag or backpack all make great carry-on bags.

Recommended: Carry-on bag (check price & reviews on Amazon)

Make sure to pack your prescription and over the counter medication and keep it in your carry-on bag, just in case your luggage gets lost!

It’s a good idea to bring at least 2 additional weeks of medication with you, and have a print out of your prescriptions as a precaution when traveling.

Packing Cubes

One of the best ways to stay organized and pack for your Mediterranean cruise is with packing cubes . A set of packing cubes in a different color for each person traveling is a good start.

Recommended: Packing cubes set (check price & over 15000 5* reviews)

International Power Adapter

An international power adapter is essential for any European cruise. You’ll need to charge your items at the hotel before or after your cruise, even if your cruise ship has a US electric plug in the cruise cabin.

Recommended: International power adapter (check price & Amazon reviews here)

Bathing Suit

Whether your cruise is in June or July, or September or October, you’ll want to pack at least 1 bathing suit for casual cruise sea days or for beach or sailing excursions.

Recommended: Bathing suit (most flattering!)

Swimsuit Cover Up

A swimsuit cover up is a must bring item for any cruise packing list. If you’re on a longer Mediterranean cruise, consider packing 2-3 cover ups .

Recommended: Swimsuit cover up (check price & color options on Amazon here)

A sunhat is a must when in the Mediterranean cruise ports. I was shocked at how hot it got, and how there was so little shade, when we visited Ephesus on a Med cruise a few years ago.

The one packing mistake I made, and regretted, was not packing a sunhat and having to by sunhats on site.

Recommended: Sunhat (foldable – see 4.5* Amazon reviews here)

Travel Umbrella

If you’re cruising in the Fall or winter months, you have a fair chance of having some rainy days. Rain is less common in the summer, but a windproof travel umbrella is smart to bring just in case.

It’s can even be a good idea to pack a light rain jacket if your cruising to the Mediterranean in late September, October and November.

Recommended: Windproof compact travel umbrella (check price & 11000+ Amazon reviews)

Light Jacket or Sweater

If you’re cruising during the shoulder seasons, you can expect some cooler weather in the evening and even during the day on shore excursions. Make sure to pack a light jacket for rain or cooler weather that fits easily in your day bag or back pack.

Recommended: Lightweight jacket (waterproof)

Comfortable Walking Shoes

You’ll probably want to pack a few pairs of shoes for your cruise , including flip flops or sandals, casual shoes and dress shoes for formal nights .

However, the one pair of shoes that is non-negotiable is comfortable walking shoes.

These Reebok classic shoes are comfortable, supportive and cute. I have these shoes and they are my favorites!

Recommended: Reebok walking shoes (check price & see 6000+ Amazon reviews)

Anti-theft Cross-body bag

Some European cities are unfortunately notorious for pickpocketing. A great practical handbag to avoid any hassles, is a slash-proof anti-theft cross body bag .

Recommended: Travelon anti-theft crossbody bag (see ratings & color options)

A useful item to bring along, is a backpack for excursions, which can double duty use as a personal bag on your flight. This travel backpack has over 65000 5* reviews on Amazon!

Recommended: Backpack (anti-theft for travel)

Lightweight Scarf or Pashmina

Pack a pashmina , shawl or lightweight scarf to wear on the cruise ship in the evening (the air conditioning can be cool), or on your flight.

You’ll also need to cover your shoulders if you enter religious buildings when sightseeing in Italy, Greece and elsewhere, so a pashmina is a perfect choice.

Recommended: Pashmina scarf (see color options & pricing on Amazon)

Toiletry Bag

This hanging toiletry bag is great for any type of travel, but perfect fro cruise ship cabins, where space is limited.

Recommended: Hanging travel toiletry bag (see over 30,000 5* Amazon reviews)

Non-surge Protected Power Bar

Cruise ship cabins usually only have 1 or 2 electric outlets, so it’s smart to pack a non-surge protected power bar to charge your phone and other tech items .

It’s important to know that regular, surge-protected power bars are prohibited on cruise ships.

Recommended: Non-surge protected power bar with USB outlets

Magnet Hooks

Another handy item that will help to organize your cabin is heavy duty magnet hooks . Cruise cabin walls are almost always metal, so a smart cabin hack is to use magnet hooks to hang up items and keep them off the floor.

Recommended: Magnet hooks (check price & reviews on Amazon)

Magnet Clips

Clip your shore excursion tickets and important papers to the cabin wall with magnet clips .

Recommended: Magnet clips

Refillable Water Bottle

A refillable water bottle is really useful both on the cruise ship and on long days in port.

Recommended: Refillable water bottle with Brita filter (check price & over 35000 Amazon reviews here)

Cruise Lanyard

A best-selling cruise accessory is a lanyard to hold cruise key cards . I’ve been using lanyards for recent cruises and they are game-changing!

Recommended: Cruise lanyard (see price & 4000+ Amazon reviews)

Waterproof Phone Case on Lanyard

This water-proof phone case is great for beach and cruise vacations. It will also keep money and other items dry.

Recommendations: Waterproof phone case on lanyard

Seasickness Treatment

If you worry about getting seasick on a cruise , there a few things you can pack to prevent it or deal with motion sickness, if it does happen to you.

There are both natural remedies as well as medications for motion sickness that work effectively. If you have concerns, you may also want to see your doctor to ask about prescription medication.

• Bonine (chewable medication)
• Anti-nausea wristbands
• Ginger Tummydrops

Travel Alarm Clock

A simple travel alarm clock is handy to keep on ship’s time, and ensure that you don’t oversleep and miss an excursion.

Recommended: Travel alarm clock (over 11,000 4.5* Amazon reviews)

Hanging Organizer

One of the most popular items cruise travelers use to organize their cruise cabin is the hanging organizer , with pockets to keep everything in it’s place.

This can be hung on the bathroom door (not on Disney Cruise Line) or on the ceiling or wall using magnet hooks.

Recommended: Hanging organizer (check price & 1000+ Amazon reviews here)

Cruise First Aid Kit

Make yourself a mini first aid kit for your cruise with blister bandaids, antibiotic ointment and other first aid items you just may need.

You can also purchase a ready made first aid kit and add to it as needed.

Recommended: First aid kit (check price & see 60,000 plus 5* reviews)

Poo-Pourri Before-You-Go bathroom spray is a cruise cabin essential that’s on every cruise packing list.

Recommended: Poo-Pourri (a cruise cabin essential)

Downy Wrinkle Release

A travel size bottle of Downy Wrinkle Release is fantastic to keep cruise outfits wrinkle free.

Recommended: Downy wrinkle release

Luggage Tag Holders

Remember to print out your cruise ship luggage tags and attach them to your luggage on embarkation day. Since they are made of paper, I like to buy reusable cruise luggage tag holders which are sturdy and convenient.

Here are luggage tag holders by cruise line (on Amazon):

• Celebrity Cruises
• Holland America
• Norwegian Cruise Line
• Princess Cruises
• Royal Caribbean

Other Travel Essentials

Here’s a list suggestions for other items to pack for your Mediterranean cruise.

• manicure set
• credit card
• selfie stick
• towel clips
• Jewelry (optional)
• Travel books
• travel insurance (make sure to purchase)

Popular & Related Posts

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What to Pack for a Mediterranean Cruise

In this post we went over what to pack for a Mediterranean cruise, including the cruise and travel essentials you’ll need when you go.

While you don’t want to overpack, you do want to make sure you have everything you need. If you have a longer cruise, remember that you can do laundry or have a few clothing items washed if needed.

Are you going on a Mediterranean cruise? Please let me know your cruise packing tips and essential items in the comments below.

Happy Cruising!

P.S. If you found this helpful, please don’t keep it to yourself ;-). Please share on Facebook or PIN to your favorite Pinterest board (share buttons at the top). Thanks so much!

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30 Top Mediterranean Cruise Packing List Items in 2023 + What to Wear & NOT to Bring

The Mediterranean is filled with endless treasures to explore. From the fascinating history of Greece to the rich culture of Turkey, your Mediterranean cruise is sure to take you on the adventure of a lifetime.

Our Mediterranean cruise took us through Greece, Italy, Spain, and more, but this route has several different points of disembarkation, which means it can stop anywhere from Montenegro to Morocco!

Since it can be daunting to pack for such a varietal itinerary, take a look at our comprehensive Mediterranean Cruise Packing List, which will also touch on what to wear on a Mediterranean cruise , what NOT to bring, and other useful FAQs.

What to Pack for a Mediterranean Cruise - 30 Essentials

1. neck wallet.

Avoid becoming a target for pickpockets and petty theft, especially in the crowded, touristy areas like cruise ports and busy streets. Europe is the land of professional sticky fingers and they are sly! When you disembark to explore each new city, you’ll want to be sure your valuables are safe so don’t forget to bring your neck wallet. This one is large enough to hold your phone, passport, credit card, and cash while also keeping you organized with separate pockets. Wear it under your shirt through airports and busy attractions to ensure no one can even spot your valuables.

View on Amazon.com ➜

2. Lipstick-Sized Portable Charger

With so many things to explore and so many new people to meet, you won’t want to waste time waiting for your phone to charge. Bring a handy lipstick-sized portable charger so you can charge your smartphone on the fly. This will free you up to use your phone for pictures and navigation without having to worry about it running out of battery.

3. Virtual Private Network (VPN)

A VPN will be invaluable to have on a Mediterranean cruise. Global data breaches have increased by 20% since 2023, and online threats are common in this part of the world. Protect your personal information, social security number, and passwords from potential hackers – both when you connect to public Wi-Fi networks on the ship and at ports as you explore cafes, shops, and restaurants. I learned this the hard way when my credit card number was stolen at an Airbnb that I thought was safe.

A VPN is not only a shield, but it’s a key to unlock thousands of servers around the globe. You will have unlimited access to websites from your home country that could be blocked in the destinations you’re visiting. NordVPN is our go-to since they give you unlimited data and an anonymous IP address (which means no geotargeted pricing and thus, cheaper flights!) For a few dollars a month, it’s one of the best investments you can make.

View NordVPN.com Options ➜

4. International Power Adapter

An international power adapter is a must-have on any trip overseas. Particularly on a cruise where you plan to visit various countries, you’ll want to be prepared to plug in your necessary electronics wherever you are. This one is great because it will work in 100+ popular countries and comes with a lifetime replacement guarantee!

5. Waterproof Phone Case

Everybody knows that electronic gadgets and water simply don’t mix. Packing a reliable waterproof phone case will keep your selfie game strong, even when you’re in the pool or at the beach during your Mediterranean cruise. This waterproof phone case will work wonders for keeping your smartphone secure and putting your mind at ease. It’s made with love by a woman-owned company based in Hawaii, and for a small price, could save your lifeline!

6. Travel Insurance for Cruising

Any time you travel overseas, it’s important to make sure you’re covered in case of an emergency. Your at-home provider typically only provides domestic coverage (and international medical bills would cost a fortune if paying out-of-pocket!) If they have to medivac you off the ship, that alone could cost tens of thousands, and that’s before receiving treatment!

Faye is our go-to provider because they will take care of the costs for lost luggage, stolen items, flight delays, medical costs, and even an entire trip cancelation. They’re also the first 100% digital provider – the claims process is a breeze through their mobile app. We also love that you can track your flights on the app, so everything is handled in one place. In some countries, it’s actually required to have insurance while abroad, so don’t gamble with your coverage as you’re moving from port to port.

Get a quote in less than 60 seconds with Faye ➜

7. Luggage Straps

Your bag will be out-of-sight on numerous occasions for a Mediterranean cruise. Because in all likelihood, you will fly to your departure port, which involves checking your luggage and entrusting your things to baggage handlers under strict deadlines who will throw your bags like caution to the wind. When cruising, you’ll have your bags scanned to board the ship, where cases may be delivered to your cabin in an effort to reduce hall crowding. In the warehouse full of bags near the port, suitcases are sorted by colors, so it can be difficult to find yours if you opt for a basic black bag.

These luggage belts elegantly solve all of these issues – they adjust to fit nearly any case and secure your items shut, reinforce the zippers, keep the handle from popping open, allow for TSA-friendly searches, AND make your bags easily identifiable in a crowd. It’s a lightweight but heavy-duty addition to your packing artillery that will make a big difference in time and stress.

8. Motion Sickness Patches

Motion sickness prevention is wise if you suffer from any kind of seasickness or nausea from windy European roads. While the cruise ship has large stabilizers, you’ll probably still feel some movement on the first couple of days, as well as on smaller vessels that take you to ports or around the coastline for excursions. You’ll be thankful for bringing these effective patches!

9. Hanging Toiletry Bag

If you’ve been on a cruise – you already know… the bathrooms average about 25 square feet, and you can barely do a spin in the shower! Let alone have countertop space for all of your toiletries. This hanging toiletry bag elegantly resolves that issue by vertically optimizing your liquids with 4 giant unfolding pockets for all haircare, skincare, and makeup, plus 3 external pockets for smaller items.

It creates a shelf that you can access at eye-level by hanging on any door, shower pole, hook, or wall. It’s a WAY better system than carelessly throwing products around your cabin, or waiting for bottles to fall off the counter when waves really start to rock the boat! Once you’re ready to pack it away, all you do is fold it back up and go. It’s an absolute gem and we’d never cruise without it!

10. Quick-Dry Travel Towel

The cruise ship will provide big fluffy towels, but you don’t want to hike around the Greek Islands or explore slick waterfalls with something bulky. This lightweight travel towel is light as a feather yet super absorbent, it actually dries 10x faster than typical cotton towels. We’ve found it has infinite uses like drying off or serving as a seat cover, packing cushion, shawl, changing curtain, and more.

11. Swimsuits

Pack your most stylish swimsuits and get ready to let loose on the dreamy beaches of Portugal and the sunny coves of coastal Croatia. Thong-style bottoms are totally acceptable, and no sweat if you forget your bikini top as many beaches are topless. For men, less is more. Speedos or shorter swim trunks are good options to help you fit in with the locals.

12. Packing Cubes

Packing cubes are an essential item to bring on all sorts of trips, and your Mediterranean cruise is no exception! They keep you organized, and make packing and unpacking a piece of cake. These come in a set of three different sizes, several vibrant colors, and also include a laundry pouch and a shoe bag. They also have a place on the outside to label what’s inside each cube so you’ll never have to spend time digging through your luggage to find that one specific item.

13. Jet Lag Relief

You’re likely flying to the Mediterranean from a faraway starting point. This jet lag relief is the best one that I’ve found for fighting exhaustion and I can feel a distinct difference when traveling with this product versus without it. Between the layovers, long flights, and timezone changes – this product will make the journey way easier, especially since it uses chamomile and other botanicals rather than harsh stimulants like caffeine.

14. Windproof Travel Umbrella

You should always bring an umbrella to this region, particularly if you plan to travel during the winter when the local temperatures are mild but the climate is rainy. You’ll want a windproof travel umbrella like this one to keep you dry and comfortable while you explore each new city. If you’re cruising in the summer, you may still experience the occasional rain shower but it is less likely than in the colder months.

15. Discounted Tickets on Mediterranean Tours

Whether you’re biking around the shores of Marseille or cruising around the coast of Valencia , there are endless possibilities for your daily port excursions. Get Your Guide is our favorite booking service for the best local tours with flexible cancellations.

Walk through Old Town Dubrovnik , visit the Acropolis in Athens , and dine on pizza (where it was invented!) in Naples before exploring the breathtaking cliffs of the Amalfi Coast .

See all Mediterranean Cruise attractions at GetYourGuide.com ➜

16. Rolling Suitcase

It’s a good idea to bring a reliable piece of luggage when you’re going on a cruise in order to keep your belongings safe and contained. A hardshell suitcase will protect your belongings during your journey. This suitcase is perfect for stowing away in your cabin and is spacious enough to fit the variety of clothing you’ll want during your cruise. The rolling mechanism will be a lifesaver against any uphill journeys you’re embarking on.

17. TSA-Approved Luggage Locks

Your bags will be out of sight for LONG durations – between checking them for an international flight, then handing them off to the cruise line upon your arrival (where they place your bags at your cabin to prevent hallway congestion) as well as leaving your bags in the hallway at the end of your cruise for drop-off. Secure your luggage with these TSA-approved locks for peace of mind when your bags are on their own. I use them on purses, lockers, suitcases, etc., and bring 2 sets per trip.

18. Packable “Just in Case” Bag

One of the best parts of any vacation is shopping for local goods. You know there’s always less room than when you departed, so bring a packable “just in case” bag for authentic treats like olive oil, spices, handmade art, leather goods, and perfect gifts for your loved ones. For any bottled products like perfumes, wine, liquor, and other glass things, use these Wine Wings packing cushions so they can endure being thrown around a little by airport and cruise staff.

19. Swimsuit Cover-up

A cover-up or sarong is the perfect wrap for moving between turquoise beaches, coastal cafes, grocery stores, and your cruise ship. Some restaurants (onboard and in-town) won’t allow you to eat in just your swimsuit, so a cover-up and shoes will be required. This one is very casual and beautiful, my wife gets tons of compliments on it every time she wears it!

20. Sun Hat

Most days on your cruise will be spent sightseeing in picture-perfect ports or sunning on the ship decks. Bring a sun hat to keep the sun out of your eyes, protect your skin, and take your Instagram selfies to the next level.

21. Cooling Towels

When we were in Corsica on our Mediterranean Cruise, sliding down waterfalls all the way to the bottom of the mountain – I regretted not bringing this cooling towel with us for the rigorous hike! For any warm or tropical destinations, this towel will be your new best friend. Simply add water and wring it out. It will drop to 20 degrees colder than the outside temp for an hour! Then just add more water when you need more chilly relief, boom!

22. Sandals

Sandals or flip-flops are a must-have for a Middle Sea getaway. Bring some that are easy to slip on and off for a day at the pool on deck or at the beach. We like these Birkenstocks because they go with any outfit, and are comfortable to wear for a day of sightseeing. Also, consider a pair of mesh, breathable water shoes for when you’re going between land and sea.

23. Filtered Water Bottle

You will have filtered water onboard but the same can’t be said about your on-shore excursions. Have autonomy over your water with this filtered water bottle that will help you reduce plastic waste instead of spending a fortune on water in town. It noticeably makes your water taste better and will be perfect for areas in this part of the world where you can fill up at public spouts and water fountains.

24. Light Jacket

It can get chilly and very windy on the boat at nighttime, especially on the top deck, so make sure to bring a light jacket with you. This jacket is perfect for layering, particularly if you’re cruising during the colder months. It’ll keep you warm and is great to tie around your waist to spice up your outfit.

25. Travel Clothesline

You’ll end up with lots of soggy clothes, wet towels, and swimsuits from soaking in the hot tub every day of your cruise. This clothesline is a godsend since it can be used inside or outside. On cruises, we string this across our balcony to dry outdoor items or across the bathroom shower to create a convenient drying station. This set is fantastic because it comes with its own clothespins and is super lightweight for travel.

26. Walking or Hiking Shoes

If you’re not wandering around the streets of Nice, getting lost in Barcelona, or piazza-hopping in Florence, you’re not doing your Mediterranean cruise right. Walking shoes are an absolute necessity! These are ideal for navigating the cobblestoned streets and uneven terrain of many European cities and spending the day on your feet.

27. Sunscreen

The Mediterranean sun can be surprisingly harsh. With many of your vacation days inevitably spent in the outdoors, you’ll want to be sure to pack sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 30 to avoid a nasty sunburn. Apply it every few hours to keep from burning. Also consider bringing a small container of aloe vera for post-sun care. This brand is reef-safe which is mandatory in many areas with protected marine life.

28. Hangover Prevention

The unlimited booze cruise package is available for a reason – people want to enjoy a mimosa at breakfast, a daiquiri at the pool, a glass of wine with dinner, and end the night at the dance club for a shot WITHOUT having to pay one-by-one for each drink. This hangover prevention will keep you from getting overly dehydrated on those hot Mediterranean days. Even if you only have one or two drinks a day, all of the activity and sun can be draining. This supplement detoxes alcohol from your body more quickly so you will feel energized and ready for adventure!

29. Gorgeous Outfit

Be sure to bring at least one trendy outfit on your Mediterranean cruise. You’ll want to look nice for evenings out both on the ship and in the stylish European cities you’ll be perusing. This jumpsuit is stellar because it looks great on many different body types, doesn’t wrinkle easily, and is relatively inexpensive. It’s a power look!

30. Magnetic Hooks

Did you know that most ship doors have steel inside, making them magnetic? We pack these for all of our cruises because storage is difficult to come by in most suites, especially the interiors – so these hooks are perfect for hanging hats, clothes, towels, or anything you want to get off the floor. Sometimes we also use the door as a vacation bulletin board for our itinerary, onboard events, classes, restaurant bookings, and special invites!

Don’t forget these other items for a Mediterranean vacation:

• Mini Manicure Kit
• Luggage Tags
• Aloe Vera Gel
• Water Shoes
• Waterproof Shoe Bags
• Kid’s Snorkel
• Pashmina Shawl
• Dramamine Non-Drowsy
• Travel Sewing Kit
• Steripod Toothbrush Cover
• Makeup Remover Wipes
• Waterproof Camera
• SPF Lip Balm
• Shampoo Bar
• Deodorant Wipes
• Evening Purse
• Flotation Straps
• Comfortable Flats
• Quick-Dry Towel
• Activated Charcoal
• Electrolytes
• Mosquito Wristbands
• Extra Batteries
• Hand Sanitizer
• Travel Neck Pillow
• Contact Solution
• Alarm Clock
• Selfie Stick
• First-Aid Kit
• Over the Counter Medications
• ATM or Credit Card with No International Fees
• Passport Photos
• Hard Copies of Vital Documents

What to Wear on a Mediterranean Cruise

On your Mediterranean cruise, you’ll want to pack a variety of clothing. For days spent on the ship, think breezy sundresses, coverups, shorts and t-shirts. On days when you disembark in European port cities, you’ll want some casual but cute clothes to explore in, like a romper and comfortable sneakers, and maybe a few nicer outfits as well.

From the sun soaked beaches of the Amalfi Coast to the lively nightclubs in Palma Majorca, a few different outfits are in order for your Mediterranean cruise. European fashion is wide and varying, but in general you should try to look put-together. Minimal makeup, simple dresses, smart slacks and sensible sandals are great. It’s safe to say that thong bikinis and coverups are generally okay for this area of the world. Bring a few flashy tops or skirts for nights out on the town in some of the port cities, and a scarf or two to cover up if you’re visiting religious sites. What should MEN wear on a Mediterranean cruise? – (Click to expand) Below is a sample men’s clothing list. (All items link to Amazon.com for your convenience).

Packing for the Seasons on a Mediterranean Cruise

The Mediterranean climate is typical of the northern hemisphere with four distinct seasons, and temperatures range from hot in the summer to mild in the winter. The most popular time to cruise the Mediterranean is during the summer when the weather is warm, though with that comes a heavy influx of tourists. Consider traveling during spring or fall to avoid the crowds, and be sure to pack plenty of clothing for layering to easily adapt to the weather.

SUMMER – June, July, August:

FALL – September, October, November:

Fall is an ideal season for a Mediterranean cruise, as the weather is mild and not too cold, which is perfect for doing plenty of walking around and sightseeing in each European port destination. You are likely to encounter less groups of tourists which will result in a more authentic experience and cruise prices may even be a bit lower, too. Be prepared with light jackets, scarves, jeans, and a raincoat.

WINTER – December, January, February, part of March:

SPRING – March, April, May:

Spring is one of the best times to take a Mediterranean cruise. The weather will be pleasantly warm but not hot with plenty of bright, sunny days. If you visit during the spring, you will just miss the crowds of tourists swarming to the region, which is always a plus. Be prepared with plenty of lightweight clothing for layering so you can easily adapt to changing temperatures.

Pools and Beaches – You are sure to find several pools and hot tubs on your cruise ship, and you’ll definitely encounter lots of gorgeous beaches, too. Bring a couple of trendy swimsuits and coverups. Sun hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen are must haves as well.

Ship Restaurants – Going to dinner on the ship is a great excuse to dress glamorously. Keep it classy with a little black dress, sundress, or nice jeans and a tank top. For men, chic slacks and button-downs are great options. These outfits will also come in handy for evenings out in the port cities.

Outdoor Activities – If you have any outdoor activities or tours planned during any of your cruise stops, make sure you pack accordingly. Bring comfortable walking or hiking shoes, and athletic attire.

What NOT to Bring on a Mediterranean Cruise

1. don’t bring firearms and ammunition.

Guns, ammunition, any kind of knives, swords, daggers, bullwhips or any other types of weapons are definitely not allowed on cruise ships, so leave them at home!

2. DON’T PACK homemade, pre-cooked or other perishable food items

Cruise companies want you to spend your money on the cruise ship. You can bring packaged snack food, but no homemade meals. You can usually make special requests ahead of time if you have dietary restrictions.

3. DON’T TAKE coolers

Normally, coolers are not allowed to be brought onboard. The only exception is for coolers that are needed to carry medications, baby food, or items related to dietary restrictions.

4. DON’T BRING alcohol or hard liquor

Depending on the cruise line, you may be able to bring sealed beer and wine, but oftentimes bringing any of your own alcohol on board is prohibited. That said, you will be able to buy alcohol on the ship.

FAQs About Traveling on a Mediterranean Cruise

1. what are the best cruise lines to take with kids.

Royal Caribbean International, Costa Cruises, and MSC Cruises are well known cruise lines, and have excellent reviews from families traveling with kids. Do some research ahead of time if you have a particular cruise line in mind and read reviews from other cruisers regarding kid-friendliness. Be sure to check that your cruise isn’t “adults only” before you book!

2. What kind of adapter do I need to bring on my cruise?

Most cruise ships operate on 220 volt systems. That said, your cruise will be disembarking in various cities throughout Europe, so you’ll want to make sure you have a good  international power adapter  so you’re prepared in every location.

3. Do I need to get any vaccines before my trip?

Regardless of your destinations, you should be up-to-date on routine vaccines like measles, mumps, rubella, varicella, and seasonal flu. Crew members on the ship and fellow travelers often come from countries where these diseases are more common than in the United States, so get your shots just in case! Don’t forget to ask your healthcare provider whether any additional vaccines are required for your particular destination as well.

4. What are some good cruise ship reads?

Depending on what you like, we’ve found that juicy but light-hearted vacation reads are great options for a relaxing cruise, consider checking out this list for some ideas. We recommend bringing a Kindle on your cruise, as you will have endless reading material at your fingertips. Sometimes it’s nice to grab a guide book and read up on your destination before you get there, too!

Lyric Fergusson

What to Pack for a Mediterranean Cruise: Everything You Need to Know

Cruise , Europe Packing List , Travel Packing Lists

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If you’re wondering what to pack for a Mediterranean cruise look no further. This is a complete guide that will show you everything you need to know about packing (including some money saving tips)!

What to Pack for a Mediterranean Cruise

Written by: Kate Langille

Table Of Contents

Cruising used to conjure images in the mind of prospective travelers of the blissful honeymooners pawing at each other endlessly, or the opposite side of the things, senior citizens lining up to play shuffleboard on top of the deck.

While those tropes still exist on board, cruising is an excellent choice for many modern travelers while still having the old school charm of sailing.

Start by reading these general tips for packing for a cruise:

• 10-Step Guide to Packing for Any Trip
• What to Pack for a Cruise Vacation
• What’s in My Carry-on Bag for a 2-Week Cruise
• What to Pack on a Cruise: 7 Things to Bring and What to Leave Behind
• Understanding the Cruise Dress Code
• 10 Unexpected Things You’ll Experience on a Cruise

The Mediterranean is the best example I can think of when traveling, where the old mixes in with the new, hitting some of the most fashionable and modern cities with decades worth of history, art, culture, and culinary styles.

I had an absolute blast city-hopping from Barcelona , Cote d’Azur , Amalfi Coast , Rome , Florence , the Greek Isle, Athens , and Kusadasi/Ephesus in Turkey. Cruising is a great way to sample the best of Europe while only having to pack and unpack every once in a while.

Considering what to pack for a Mediterranean cruise can lead to a lot of confusion. Let’s take a look at the essentials along with some time and budget savers; as it’s easy to splash out on a cruise with specialty restaurants, alcohol (which is usually not included), and excursions.

Creating an  interchangeable capsule wardrobe is the key to simplified packing, which can easily fit into a carryon suitcase with the help of packing cubes to compress your clothing!

I Don’t Know What to Pack for a Mediterranean Cruise. Help!

Follow the Maximista packing list for European Destinations and you will have more than enough outfits to choose from to decide what to pack for a Mediterranean cruise. As the weather in the Mediterranean can vary by location, and the season, it’s a good idea to consider layering items as part of your overall packing goal. 

When it’s warmer out, take your fave hot weather essentials with you, like dresses , lightweight pants , and stylish shorts .

A linen shirt dress like this one from Quince is excellent to layer up or wear solo!

Remember, you can peel off thin layers, but warming up when you’re underdressed and unprepared can ruin your travel buzz on shore.

It can get incredibly hot in the Mediterranean, even in the late fall, but I was comfortable and prepared on each stop. In Greece and Turkey it was blistering hot in the middle of November, while in Rome and Florence, it was slightly chilly.

These supportive and chic Dr. Scholl’s Madison Slip Ons make perfect cruise shoes, and they comes in wide sizes too!

You can expect to do a LOT of walking, too, so be sure that your outfits are comfy to walk around in and that your shoes are super sturdy and supportive. 

While it can be a bit difficult to know what to pack for a Mediterranean cruise, it’s not impossible. Let’s get started on the break down!

What Bottoms to Pack for a Mediterranean Cruise

With the warm weather and lots of walking that you’ll be doing, staying cool and comfortable should be your #1 priority when it comes to pants. And because Europe is known for its chic and refined sense of style, you might want to combine functionality with style! 

Shop Eddie Bauer Departure Ankle Pants: Eddie Bauer Sizes: Regular XS-XXL | Petite S-L | Tall M-XXL | Plus 2X-3X

Trousers with sneakers are such an effortless yet stylish combo, and with Eddie Bauer’s Departure pants , you get the look of trousers with supreme comfort and functional qualities. 

They’re ideal for staying polished on a hot day of exploring, as they’re lightweight and super breathable, with its moisture-wicking features and they offer much needed UPF 50+ sun protection. These are always a top reader favorite that can be worn throughout an active day and then dressed up for dinner and drinks!

If you’re a style-conscious female traveler that’s always on the go, these are THE travel pants for you.

Toad & Co Wide Leg Pant | Sizes 0-14

Wide leg pants are chic and very trendy, plus they’re super comfy! Pick a pair that’s lightweight and made from a breathable fabric like linen or cotton. 

In terms of color, you can never go wrong with black or dark neutrals, as they’re flattering and versatile. However, white or beige pants are just perfect for summer and can be mixed and matched with all kinds of color combinations. 

The Toad & Co cotton wide leg pants are airy and cool, with a comfortable and relaxed fit that wearers say is extremely flattering and cute! Plus, they can take you into cooler weather with a cozy sweater and sneakers . 

Readers also adore wide leg jeans for European destinations, as well as flowy linen pants . Such an easy way to stay elegant and cozy while you take in the sights!

Quince 100% European Linen Shorts | Sizes XS-XL

On a super hot day, you’ll be glad to have a pair of long shorts or linen shorts packed! Let your legs breathe and soak up some vitamin D in a chic pair like Quince linen shorts . 

They’re made of a lightweight linen blend that’s highly breathable and comfortable in the heat, and while the style is relaxed and easy, the longer length makes them a bit more polished for Europe ! 

What Tops to Pack for a Mediterranean Cruise

When packing for a multi-country cruise, be sure to bring tops that are suitable for the range of temps that you’ll be experiencing, as you bounce from region to region. While you’ll definitely want to choose cool and airy tanks and tees , you should consider packing a nice long sleeve button down made from a cooling fabric, as well as some long sleeves for cooler days.

Quince 100% European Linen Long Sleeve Shirt | Sizes XS-XL

Linen Shirts

Linen is a miracle fabric for hot destinations, as it wicks away moisture and remains cooling throughout a sweltering day. Quince linen button down shirt will have you looking chic and put-together whether paired with joggers for your morning coffee or with jeans and white sneakers for a sightseeing trip in town. It’s breezy and lightweight, and you can roll up the sleeves for a more laid-back look and extra airflow. 

Get cool and look cool in these linen shirts women love!

Quince Stretch Silk Tank | Sizes XS-XL

Hot summer days in the Mediterranean call for some tanks ! Keep it cool yet classy with Quince’s washable silk tank top which looks elegant but is super practical for an active day. It has wide straps and a flattering a-line shape, and the silk fabric is naturally thermoregulating, making it perfect for the heat. Plus, it’s a chic and versatile piece that can be dressed up or down.

Vince Essential Long Sleeve Pima Cotton Top | Sizes Plus 1X-3X

Layering Shirt

Whether you’re enjoying the crisp morning breeze out on the deck or strolling around town on a chillier day, a casual-chic long sleeve top is a must-pack for a Mediterranean cruise. 

Go for something simple, breathable, and lightweight yet cozy enough to offer that extra bit of warmth whenever needed. 

The Essential long sleeve t-shirt from Vince is an ideal option that’s perfect for your layering needs! Its classic yet chic fit and the neutral color options allow it to pair with any outfit seamlessly. Readers love that the soft pima cotton has a casual yet high-quality look to it.

What Dresses to Pack for a Mediterranean Cruise

If you love wearing dresses when you travel, there’s no better place to flaunt them than in the romantic cities of the Mediterranean. An effortless yet polished and cute outfit; dresses are a perfect addition to your cruise packing list. 

One travel consideration that some cruisers worry about is the formal nights on board. While cruise lines can have evening-wear guidelines ranging from casual, smart casual, to formal, cruises are a great opportunity to get glammed up if you wish! Whether you go formal or more laid-back, dresses are great for any dinner on board. 

Chico’s Classic Short Sleeve Maxi Dress | Sizes XS-XL (Regular & Petite)

Long Dresses

Long dresses have so much going for them — they’re stylish, comfortable, feminine, and are a perfect option for touring any religious sites when you need extra coverage. 

The Chico’s Travelers Classic maxi dress covers all the bases, as it was designed specifically for travel! It has a straight silhouette that wearers say moves beautifully and hangs on the body in a super flattering way. The fabric is light, soft, a bit stretchy, and wrinkle-resistant! 

Take a look at our carefully curated list of dresses that aren’t just pretty, they’ll actually help you stay fresh and cool, too!

DKNY V-Neck Linen Maxi Dress | Sizes XXS-XL

Both midi dresses and maxi dresses have such an elegant allure like the DKNY linen dress pictured above, and even though there’s more fabric than a short dress , their lightweight fabrics with its flowy silhouettes will definitely keep you just as cool and comfy. And, long dresses can be dressed casually or gussied up for an onboard dinner.

Caslon Sleeveless Tie Waist Dress | Sizes XXS-XXL

Rayon is a fantastic fabric for the summer, and readers always love dresses made from this fabric for its comfortable yet lightweight feel. It offers a sleek design that is wrinkle resistant, and has sweat-wicking properties. 

The Caslon Sleeveless Tie Waist Dress has a waist-accentuating fit that wearers rave about, featuring utilitarian-inspired details like patch pockets softened by princess seams. This cutie will certainly be a go-to throughout your trip! 

Eddie Bauer Aster Empire Dress Sizes Regular XS-XXL | Petite S-L | Tall M-XXL | Plus 2X-3X

Knee Length Dresses

Shorter dresses, especially those with technical fabrics, are great for summer cruising, especially if you have a diverse itinerary.

  A cute option like Eddie Bauer’s Aster dress can be worn everywhere from trekking through ancient ruins to frolicking on the beach or wandering through museums. Or, pair it with your favorite sandals , some classic jewelry, and a small clutch or wristlet , and you’re set for nicer dinners on board! 

It’s made of moisture-wicking and odor-repellent material, along with a UPF 50+ fabric that’ll have you covered on any adventure you embark on. And readers love the simple yet flattering fit. 

Eddie Bauer Aster Crossover Dress | Sizes XS-3X

Moisture-wicking dresses are ideal in the summer heat, as they won’t show sweat marks, and help regulate heat, keeping you feeling fresh and dry without any odor, so you can re-wear it multiple times. 

The Eddie Bauer Aster Crossover Dress is another cute, moisture-wicking option with sleeveless style and a flattering tie waist. It’s lightweight, breathable, stretchy, and wrinkle-resistant. Wearers love its practical yet stylish design!

Quince 100% European Linen Square Neck Jumpsuit | Sizes XS-XL

Jumpsuits are a fantastic alternative to dresses. They’re an easy, comfortable, all-in-one outfit, just like a dress, and even if they have a more casual vibe, they can easily be dressed up for nicer occasions! 

Quince Linen Jumpsuit will add some airiness to your wardrobe with its lightweight, linen fabric and drapey fit. The tie front can be adjusted in the back for a cinched-in or relaxed waist, and the color will look perfect along Europe’s stunning coasts.

What Swimwear to Pack for a Mediterranean Cruise

Don’t forget a swimsuit or two! Whether you’re planning on swimming in as many beaches as you can, or just want to enjoy some evening jacuzzi sessions on board, a bathing suit is a must-have for your cruise. It’s always a good idea to bring at least two different options so that one of them will always be dry and ready to wear. 

While bikinis are the go-to among European locals, anything goes! Wear whatever you feel most comfortable and confident in.

Miraclesuit Illusionists Swimsuit | Sizes 6-16

Bathing Suits

If you want a bit more coverage, choose a classic one piece. Miraclesuit’s Illusionists Circe one piece is beyond flattering, with special fabric that’s designed to smooth, hold, and shape. It has a v-neck, full-coverage bottoms, and a cute mesh inset for added style! 

TFG shows you expert tips and tricks to find the most flattering styles for your body type !

Jules Textured Bralette Bikini Top  |  Sydney Textured Hipster Bottom

If you want to rock a two-piece, the Jules top and bottoms by Everything but Water are cute, flattering, and super supportive for bustier gals. The top offers a personalized fit with adjustable back straps and a hook back closure, with the perfect amount of lift and support, and the bottoms offers a fit flattering shirred waistband with moderate to full coverage.

It’s also really comfy and practical for sunbathing, swimming laps in the pool, or just strolling along the beach. This is a reader-fave for good reason!

Elan Cover-Up Maxi Dress | Sizes XS-XL

Swimsuit Cover Ups

You’ll also need a swim coverup for when you’re spending time at the beach and want to go into town for a drink or gelato. It’s super convenient to wear to and from the pool on board, rather than lugging around a towel. 

Elan’s maxi cover up is an elevated option that’s cute and easy for the beach, and perfect for grabbing lunch in town, too. It’s lightweight and breezy so it dries quickly. Wearers love that it looks chic and sophisticated!

Robin Piccone Fiona Cover-Up Dress | Sizes XS-L

Robin Piccone’s Fiona cover-up dress is so adorable, you’ll want to wear it to more places than just the beach! This option is definitely an eye-catcher, with cute cap sleeves, a flouncy skirt, shirred fabric, and offers an overall feminine and flattering shape. It’s made of cotton with a teeny hint of stretch, making it breathable, durable, and ideal for a hot day by the water, and you could totally dress it up with flats and accessories for dinner!  

Shop Olukai Hila Sandals: Nordstrom | Zappos | Olukai

Beach Sandals

Don’t forget your beach sandals ! Aside from your sightseeing shoes, you’ll want a water-friendly pair that you can wear around casually, on pool or beach days. While these aren’t going to be your walking shoes, make sure that they’re supportive and comfortable enough for quick strolls into the various seaside towns that you’ll be exploring.

Slides are a great beach vacay sandal, with a laid-back look and a practical design, it’s easy to slip on and off. Olukai’s water-resistant slides is an awesome beach shoe with a secure, comfy fit that has a sole that won’t slip.

Shop Reef Cushion Sandals: Amazon | Zappos

Readers love Reef flip flops for its highly cushioned soles and superb arch support. If you want to take a break from the beach to get some sightseeing in, these cuties will keep your feet comfortable throughout your walk.

And while they’re a more laid-back pair, they’re accentuated with stylish metallic straps for a leveled-up look that you can wear with dresses for casual dinners, too.

What Shoes to Pack for a Mediterranean Cruise

The beautiful Mediterranean cities you’ll be stopping at are best explored by foot, so when it comes to footwear, comfort should be the #1 priority! You’ll be logging some serious miles as you wander through various towns and see all the sights, so choose pairs that are amply cushioned and have enough support that your feet will need. 

And keep in mind that Europe is full of those charming but uneven cobblestones, so make sure your shoes are sturdy, too! We’ll dig into more shoes, but also check out the most cute and comfortable walking shoes as voted by readers!

Shop Taos Lux Sneaker: Amazon | Taos

On a heavy-duty walking day, sneakers will keep your feet stable and protected from the elements. The top pick among readers for a stylish yet amazingly comfortable sightseeing sneaker is the Taos Plim Soul Luxe . This sneaker is classic yet polished pair that’s perfect for strolling through chic European cities, and will look great with any outfit, whether wide leg jeans and a tee or a summery dress .

Vionic Zinah Sneaker

Another stylish pair that certainly doesn’t skimp on comfort is the Vionic Zinah slip on sneaker . This pair is beautifully designed and can both elevate a simple sightseeing look and compliment a dressy dinner outfit! And we can’t forget about the podiatrist-designed footbed with cushioning, arch support, and a deep heel cup that’ll keep your feet happy as can be throughout a long day of walking. 

Munro Juniper Multi Strap Sandals

In the summer heat, let your feet breathe with a comfy pair of walking sandals . Opt for a pair that has supportive straps, a cushioned sole, and a durable outsole that can tackle rough and uneven streets. 

The Munro Juniper Multi Strap Sandals are perfect for an active day, with a cushy and supportive footbed, and offer great traction. Plus, they’re really cute. The leather straps make them a tad less casual, so can easily be dressed up. 

Shop Taos Trulie Sandal: Amazon | Taos

Another ultra-comfy pair is the Taos Trulie sandals , decked out with woven leather straps, a slight wedge heel, and excellent support. Readers say they’re a dream in the heat and perfect for a long day of walking. 

This is another pair that’ll be perfect for sightseeing during the day and then enjoying a fun night on board! 

Vionic Minna Flats

If you want to bring a dressy shoe for special dinners in town or any formal nights on board, readers always suggest flats because they’re practical, easy to pack, and won’t take much space in your luggage. 

Heels, especially stilettos, are not recommended (unless you’re an absolute pro), since your balance can get unstable on board especially if hitting rough waters. But if you want a bit of height, go for some travel-friendly wedges ! 

Readers love flats like the Vionic Minna , because they’re simple and classic but have cushioning, arch support, and heel support hidden inside. You could go for a little evening stroll into town with these if you want to! Remember that when it comes to dress shoes, comfort is always an important factor to consider. 

Here are the most comfortable flats to walk in and the best part is, most of them are under $100! 

Rothy’s The Loafer Ballet Flat

Another all-time fave flat is the Rothy’s loafer , which is amazingly lightweight and breathable, perfect for a super hot day on or off board. While they’re flexible and slim, they offer a great amount of arch support and cushioning. They’re also super durable and easy to keep clean, and, of course, super chic and stylish! 

What Jackets to Pack for a Mediterranean Cruise

If you’re cruising in the summer months, a jacket typically won’t be necessary during the day, but you’ll be glad to have a cozy option packed while enjoying the chilly ocean breeze at night or early in the morning.  

For early- and late-season sailings, you’ll want to bring a lightweight yet warm jacket, as the weather can be a bit more unpredictable, and evenings will definitely be on the cooler side. 

There might be some rain in the spring and fall, too, so a lightweight rain jacket that you can store in your day bag for sudden shifts in weather will come in handy. (Be sure to keep up with the weather forecast leading up to your trip!)  

In any season, when traveling through the Mediterranean, bring something light and packable yet warm enough for the air-conditioned rooms on the ship and the breezy shorelines at the beach. 

Quince Organic Cotton Knit Blazer | Sizes XS-XL

Lightweight Jackets

If you want to lean into the elevated and polished style of European locals, opt for a blazer ! Readers love the versatility and effortless style of a comfortable knit blazer for their travels.

The Quince knit blazer is a reader-favorite, made of 100% organic cotton for soft yet breathable warmth. Plus, it’ll look great over a t-shirt or even a fancy dress! 

J.Crew Classic Denim Jacket | Sizes XXXS-3X

A denim jacket is as classic and cool as they come, and couldn’t be more perfect for the summertime! They’re lightweight and make the perfect layer for chilly summer nights, and they can be layered over a sweater in the spring season for extra warmth, too. 

J. Crew’s Classic denim jacket is perfect. It has a relaxed fit, that’s still nice, coupled with a faded wash, and pretty gold hardware, and is such a versatile piece that you’ll be wearing throughout your trip and on every warm-weather trip to come!

Shop Cole Haan Hooded Jacket: Amazon   | Nordstrom Rack Sizes: XS-XXL Regular & Petite | 1X-3X Plus

Rain Jackets

While your spring and fall cruising might involve a bit of rain, don’t let that ruin the fun! If you’re prepared with a chic and lightweight rain jacket , you’ll be ready to explore in comfort and style. Plus, there’s nothing like the romantic atmosphere of a rainy day in Europe ! 

Cole Haan’s packable rain jacket has a long length and a full-coverage hood yet is super packable. Its classic look and lightweight construction will make you look and feel great in every season, too.

Orvis Pack-And-Go Jacket | Sizes XS-XL

Pick a rain jacket that’s breathable, slim, and will give you plenty of mobility. And while black and dark neutrals are always travel-friendly colors, there’s nothing wrong with a subtle pop of color to layer over your outfits — especially on a gloomy day!

Orvis’ Pack-And-Go rain jacket was made for travelers. It has a clean, simple look but is full of chic features; from a vented back for extra breathability, an interior sunglasses pocket with an attached cleaner, to an adjustable waist, and a removable hood.

Quince Baby Alpaca-Wool Cropped Cardigan | Sizes Plus XS-XL

When you need to layer, a cardigan is the best way to go. It’ll add an instant warmth and comfort while being slim and easy to carry. They’re also more elevated than a zip-up hoodie, so they can be worn day to day but also be paired with your more dressed up evening wear. 

Quince cropped cardigan is a cute and simple piece that’s soft, stretchy, and makes the perfect travel staple. It’s warming for slightly chilly days and evenings and is perfect for cruising in transitional weather. 

J.Crew Cashmere Cardigan Sweater | Sizes XXXS-3X

Cashmere sweaters will keep you super warm without any bulkiness, so readers love bringing J. Crew’s cashmere cardigan with them when they’re heading out on a multi-country trip, through different climates – like a Mediterranean cruise! It has a cozy, relaxed fit with a super elegant feel. 

What Accessories to Pack for a Mediterranean Cruise

Aside from the clothing staples, you’ll want to pack some key accessories, too. 

Be sure to bring sun hats and sunglasses to keep your face shaded away from the sun. Readers often suggest a wrap or pashmina for its excellent versatility, too. 

It’s best to keep jewelry to a minimum, but bringing some fun statement pieces, or even scarves, to change up the look of your dressier outfits is always a great idea!  

Mersea Classic Wrap

Whether using it as a pillow on your flight, a blanket on the chilly deck, or a chic addition to your dinner look, a wrap or pashmina is a perfect addition to your packing list. It’s also a great coverup for your swimsuit or shoulders and legs in more modest countries and cathedrals. 

The Mersea Classic Travel Wrap is the TGF-reader top pick. It’s gorgeous, high quality, cozy, and super functional!

Lanzom Panama Sun Hat

Protect your face from the sun with a cute straw hat! They’re a trendy addition to any outfit and will keep things breezy and cool on a hot day. 

The Lanzom Panama hat is perfect for travel because it can be rolled or folded up and stuffed into your day bag, and will come out looking neat when you’re ready to put it on! It’s adjustable, comfy, and has UPF 50+ sun protection, too. This is definitely a summer cruise essential! 

What Luggage to Bring for a Mediterranean Cruise

Readers strongly suggest a carry on suitcase for cruises due to the limited amount of space in the cabin. Traveling carry on is especially handy if you’ll be taking an international flight to get to your cruise ship, as it saves the need to pay for check-in luggage. Below, there are some great tips but also check out the best international carry on suitcases , with selections for Europe too!

Shop Travelpro Maxlite 5 (19-Inch): Amazon | Travelpro

Make your travels easy breezy with Travelpro’s Maxlite 5 suitcase ! At 19”, it’ll comply with European airlines and won’t take up much space on board the ship. While it’s compact and lightweight, it’s super easy to maneuver, and readers always rave about how spacious it is inside! 

To help you avoid overweight baggage fees, we’ve rounded up the best lightweight luggage !

Samsonite Winfield 2 (20-Inch)

If you’re looking for a hardside option, the Samsonite Winfield 20” is a winner. It’s sleek, ultra-light, super high quality, and rolls like a dream. The dimensions make it carry-on friendly for European travel, but the inside is definitely roomy and allows for great organization.

What Personal Item to Bring for a Mediterranean Cruise

The perfect personal item for a Mediterranean cruise can vary depending on what activities you’ll be doing and how much you like to carry with you. 

If you have a beach day or a more active and outdoorsy day planned, a lightweight backpack is a perfect option that can hold a towel , a coverup, sunscreen , and your other must-haves. A backpack or tote bag is also perfect if you’re spending the day souvenir-hunting! 

And if you’ll be in an especially touristy or crowded area, you’ll want to keep your things as safe as possible, opt for an anti-theft purse that has top-notch security features.  

If you need some help deciding what’s the best purse for Europe, read our tip filled post here .

Lo & Sons Pearl Crossbody Bag

For days when you want to keep things relatively light and just want to carry a purse, a crossbody bag is perfect for keeping your belongings securely attached to your body and keeps your hands-free! Plus, they give you quick and easy access to your things, too. 

Readers love the Lo & Sons Pearl crossbody , which is both beautiful and full of function. Inside the sleek, high quality leather exterior, you’ll find plenty of pockets and ample space for the day’s necessities. It has a sophisticated look and holds up well despite the wear and tear of travel. 

Baggallini Calais Crossbody Bag

If you don’t want to worry about rain, splashes from the pool, or a spilled drink, Baggallini’s Calais crossbody can handle it all with its water-resistant material. It’s a more lightweight option with a super cute look and amazing interior organization to boot. 

Travelon Anti-theft Signature Slim Backpack

Adventurous excursions or long sightseeing days in port may require some additional items, so a comfy and secure backpack is the way to go. Readers love having the peace of mind that an anti-theft backpack brings, especially since it’s carried out of sight. 

Travelon’s Signature Slim backpack is sleek and cute but doesn’t call attention to itself, and it comes with a host of anti-theft features, from slash-resistant material to locking zippers. Plus it’s super lightweight and has adjustable straps for a more comfortable fit. 

Longchamp Le Pliage

Nylon is a great fabric for bags, especially when travelling, because it’s sleek, highly durable, and lightweight.  

The Longchamp Le Pliage backpack is made of sturdy nylon and finished off with its signature leather trim. It’s a super chic backpack and perfectly sized for daily wear. As a bonus, it folds flat for easy packing! 

Bagsmart Hanging Toiletry Bag

What Toiletries t o Pack for a Mediterranean Cruise

• Hanging toiletry bag  
• Solid toiletries
• Stick foundation
• All in one palettes are so much fun because they’re compact, cute, versatile, and get the job done without needing to overthink your makeup.

When it comes to makeup, try to pack strategically and think logically about how much time you want to put into your routine on a cruise, especially because early mornings and long days are common. That said, a cruise is a great opportunity to get dolled up! If you’re a makeup lover, take a look at the Beauty Junkie’s makeup packing list for ideas on how to keep it efficient. 

Take a look at our top 10 toiletry bags for all your beauty essentials!

Can’t Live Without Cruise Item : A small magnified mirror makes for easier makeup application on the go and in cramped cruise cabins. You won’t realize how much you it until you travel without it.

Anker Portable Battery Pack

Final Mediterranean Cruise Tips From Readers

• Be sure to bring a portable battery backup charger when planning what to pack for a Mediterranean Cruise.
• Smartphones have offline maps, which was especially useful getting lost in Rome and having to get back to the excursion bus back to the cruise port of Civitavecchia.
• Don’t waste money or time buying water bottles . Instead, bring a reusable bottle with you and use one of the many public water fountains for a refill. Public fountains are especially common in France and Italy .
• If you are an extra light packer, some space saving laundry soap sheets and a sink stopper to wash some clothes in will be extra handy. Luckily, there was a clothesline in the shower on the cruise I went on.
• Bring your own over-the-counter medications like Advil , Immodium , and Pepto Bismol tablets. They’re easy to transport and are a lifesaver in uncomfortable moments away from home.

What are your tips on what to pack for a Mediterranean cruise? Please comment below!

For  more ideas on cruise travel, please read:

• What to Wear on a Cruise to the South Pacific
• Ten Unexpected Things You’ll Experience On a Cruise
• Caribbean Cruise Wear Essentials

Suggested travel resources:

• Lonely Planet Europe on a Shoestring
• Lonely Planet Mediterranean Europe (Travel Guide)

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Hope you liked this post on what to pack for a Mediterranean cruise. Please share with your friends on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest. Thanks for reading!

Author Bio: Kate is a small town girl looking to explore the world on a budget with a carry on bag in hand, all while looking smugly proud of her packing skills. Traveling internationally since 2008, Kate has stayed in dive hostels to high end hotels with every mode of travel getting her there. Kate has a passion for makeup, skin care, hair care and is obsessed with finding the best way to take her beauty routine in the road with her.

25 Comments

Incredible resource for all things Cruising around the Mediterranean. As a first time cruiser, this information is invaluable.

I always have a difficult time in packing for a cruise. I love the coverups that you posted as well as the pretty Miraclesuit Illusionists Swimsuit.

Love this site and the Facebook group! My last 2 trips were carry on only thanks to your tips. This is the best place for travel and packing advice. Thanks so much!

Leaving on a Mediterranean Cruise in October 2023 and your suggestions have been helpful to a first time cruiser

Thanks for the great suggestions! We are going on a Mediterranean Cruise in Sept 2022!

This really helps. I’m going on one next September 2023 and leaving for Italy on Royal Caribbean. I cannot wait and I’m starting to save links and buys recommendations now!!

cruising the mediteranean in nov. bought the blondo booties and rebecca minkoff leather backpack as recommended! also have my “it” carryon suitcase ready to go.

I am going on a Mediterranean cruise in October..will it be cool enough for Uggs or just Sketchers??

Hi Mary, thank you for reaching out. It’s important to research the weather now and closer to your travels for the most accurate indication on what shoes to bring.The best advice would be to check the weather forecast a few days before your departure date to see what the weather will be like to ensure that you have packed the most appropriate shoes. Have a look at this article on choosing the best shoes for Europe which you may find helpful: https://www.travelfashiongirl.com/best-walking-shoes-for-europe/ For October a pair of ankle boots are usually a great option, like your Uggs, are they are very practical for keeping your feet dry and warm especially if there will be lots of rain forecast, but it entirely depends on the weather forecast. Make sure your shoes are comfortable for all the walking you are bound to do! Hope this helps. Have an incredible time on your cruise in October!

Heading out on a Mediterranean cruise in November, thank you for your tips!

Yay, so happy to hear that you found the article helpful!! Have an awesome time on your cruise Cecilia!! 🙂

Good advice. Thanks for the information.

Hi Mary Ann, thank you so much for your comment, so happy you enjoyed the article! 🙂

Thank you!! Leaving in 21 days. I needed this.

Hi Linda, thank you for your lovely comment, so happy you found the post helpful!! Have an amazing trip!!

I will definitely be using this packing list and suggestions for our cruise next April. I’m determined not to overpack unlike our first cruise 5 years ago!

cruise critic has a list of ten essentials a must read

thanks for the suggestion!

Heading out on a mediterranean cruise around the end of Feb 2018. Looking forward to using these tips!

Have a great trip!

Wow! I’ll be leaving on my 22 day Mediterranean Cruise on March 8th!! I’ll definitely will be using these tips also!!!

Hi. We are going in June 2018. I was just wondering if you came across many homeless dogs and cats on the excursions?

Awesome tips you had. Thanks!

Thanks Deon! Happy travels!

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• Cruise Packing Lists
• >> What to Pack for a Mediterranean Cruise – Packing List & Outfit Ideas!

What to Pack for a Mediterranean Cruise – Packing List & Outfit Ideas!

If you’re cruising soon and want to know what to pack for a Mediterranean cruise, then we’ve got the answers you need! In this post we’ll cover all the basics on what to wear on a Mediterranean cruise. We’ve put together some great Mediterranean cruise outfits to use as a guide and we’ll give you a handy printable Mediterranean cruise packing list. We’ve also added in some great packing tips so you can pack smart for your trip to Europe!

• 1 What to Pack for a Mediterranean Cruise
• 2.1 Seasonal Variations When Packing for a Mediterranean Cruise
• 2.2 City Sightseeing & Excursion Outfits
• 2.3 Casual Sea Day Outfits
• 2.4 Beach / Sailing Excursion Outfits
• 2.5 Casual Evening Outfits
• 2.6 Formal Evening Outfits
• 3 Mediterranean Cruise Packing List Printable
• 4 Packing Tips for Europe
• 5 Got questions or comments?

What to Pack for a Mediterranean Cruise

Here are some useful ideas on what to take on a Mediterranean cruise:

• Comfortable walking shoes (see notes below)
• Cross body bag
• Slashproof backpack
• Lightweight Summer Scarf
• Pashmina Shawl – Great for on the plane and cooler evenings on board
• Light jacket (showerproof)
• Packable travel umbrella
• Refillable water bottle
• European SIM card / portable wifi hotspot
• Waterproof phone case – For any sailing or beach excursions
• Camera – If you’re not taking your phone or want a great little camera for photos
• Ziploc bags – Useful for packing toiletries, taking snacks off the ship on long days or wet swim suits
• Laundry soap sheets – To hand wash any items on board (helps you pack lighter for your trip!)
• Seabands / Dramamine / ginger candies for seasickness
• Travel adapter – Your ship may or may not have US outlets in your stateroom, it depends on the cruise line. For hotel stays in Europe pre and post-cruise, you’ll need an adapter. If you’re visiting London on your trip, you’ll need a universal adapter like this as the UK uses different plugs to Europe.
• Powerstrip without surge protection – Cruise lines don’t let you use powerstrips with surge protectors so you’ll need to purchase a cruise ship approved one like this

What to Wear on a Mediterranean Cruise – Outfit Ideas

Here are our suggestions and tips for clothes for Mediterranean cruise along with lots of outfits you can create with them:

• When planning out your Mediterranean cruise outfits look for comfortable, lightweight clothes that you can wear on long days sightseeing in warm weather.
• Build yourself a mix and match Mediterranean cruise wardrobe with colors that compliment each other. It’s easy to create more outfits by packing tops that work with all your bottoms. In this post we’ve used blue, white and a pop of yellow which work great with that gorgeous Mediterranean ocean backdrop for your photos but you can choose whatever you like.
• Choose crease-free fabrics  for your Mediterranean cruise attire or bring a bottle of Downy wrinkle release with you to freshen up items.
• Choose items that can work for day and evening. A simple sundress is great for sightseeing on a balmy day but can also be dressed up for evening with a light cardigan, kimono or pashmina and some jewelry. White jeans paired with a blouse, tunic or chiffon top are great for casual evenings on board. You could also do capris if it’s very warm or linen pants if you prefer a looser fit.
• Bear in mind the locations and activities you have planned in port and dress accordingly. Shorts and sleeveless tops are often not allowed in churches and museums in Europe. It’s a good idea to have a lightweight scarf in your bag to cover your shoulders.
• Comfortable shoes you can walk all day in are key! Our favorite are the Sketchers Go Walk sneakers – you can walk all day around the streets of Europe in these, trust me! A pair of supportive, comfortable sandals are also essential for days where sneakers are too hot or to wear in the evening on the ship. These Vionic sandals are an excellent choice. Aerosoles sandals are another good option. These Croc Swiftwater sandals are super comfortable, lightweight, easy to pack and can be worn in a city or to a beach or sailing excursion as they’re waterproof.

Seasonal Variations When Packing for a Mediterranean Cruise

We based our Mediterranean cruise packing list on a summer trip as that’s when most people choose to cruise in the Med. If you’re going outside of peak summer then you’ll need a few extra items, especially if you’re visiting any other parts of Europe on your trip where the weather isn’t as mild or reliable as in the Mediterranean (e.g. London, Amsterdam or Paris).

• Summer temperatures in the Mediterranean ports are hot in the 80s and 90s °F (or late 20s and 30s °C) with lots of bright sunshine, just what you want on vacation! This packing list was created for summer trips with a focus on dresses, capri pants and lightweight tops. One cardigan and a pair of leggings are all you’ll need to combat any cooler days or evenings and can also be worn on the plane ride for comfort.
• Even in the spring and fall you’ll find that the ports you’ll be visiting will have warm and sunny days in the late 60s and 70s°F (or 18 to 25°C). You will need to pack a pair of jeans and one or two light jumpers just in case of cooler days. Lightweight merino jumpers like these are ideal for this.
• In winter, you’ll find temperatures around late 50s to 60°F (or 12 to 15°FC). You can layer dresses with leggings or tights and cardigans. Add in a warmer jacket ( packable ones like this are ideal ) and another pair of jeans and switch out the sandals for a closed toe flat or ankle boot. 

Mediterranean Cruise Outfits for Excursions (All items listed below)

City Sightseeing & Excursion Outfits

When thinking about your Mediterranean cruise wear picture what you’ll be doing in port. Sightseeing in cities like Barcelona, Rome and Santorini. You’ll need good walking shoes for those cobblestone streets. Lightweight, comfortable dresses or blouses & a pair of capri pants. (If you don’t fancy capri pants then a lightweight linen trouser will work.) If you’re wearing a sleeveless dress, add in a lightweight scarf in case you’re visiting any churches or museums as you often need to cover your shoulders in Europe when visiting important sites. It’s always a good idea to pack a waterproof jacket (even in summer) as you never know when you’ll need it. If you encounter a cooler day you can always pop leggings on under a dress for an extra layer and add a cardigan over top. 

• Striped Button Down Midi Dress with Pockets in Blue
• Weintee Casual Sleeveless Summer Dress with Pockets  in Navy
• Weintee Casual Floral Summer Dress in Navy Floral
• Lightweight Blue Floral Scarf
• White capri pants
• Dark blue midi skirt
• Minibee Bell Sleeve Blouse in Blue
• Minibee Linen Shirt in Yellow
• Columbia Women’s Switchback III Waterproof Rain Jacket
• Leggings Depot Soft Slim Leggings in Navy
• Skechers Go Walk 4 Sneakers in Grey
• Lanzom Roll Up Panama Hat

Mediterranean Cruise Outfits for Sea Days and Beach Days (All items listed below)

Casual Sea Day Outfits

For casual sea day outfits, just wear a more relaxed version of your excursion outfits. T-shirts, blouses and shorts or dresses are all you’ll need around the ship. A pair of leggings are always a good idea to pack in case you want to go to the gym, power walk around the ship or just as something to wear in cooler weather or travel days.

• Amazon Essentials Short Sleeve T-shirts
• Sobrisah Chambray Linen Shorts
• Vionic Kirra Backstrap Sandal in White

Beach / Sailing Excursion Outfits

For days by the pool and for beach or sailing excursions you’ll need a couple of nice swimsuits and cover ups. Pack two so you’ve always got a dry swimsuit in case of back to back beach days or if you want to hop in the hot tub in the evening! These lightweight chiffon kimono tops are great for cruising! You can wear them as a pool cover up or over your swimsuit & shorts on a beach day. They can also be used when wearing a dress or top & pants to add a bit of color to your outfit and cover your shoulders from the sun or for entering a church. Super useful! 

• OLRAIN Floral Print Kimono in Blue & Yellow
• Adreamly Chiffon Tassel Kaftan Swimsuit Cover up in Navy Blue
• Amourri Vintage High Waisted Bikini in Navy Blue
• Ekouaer Swimsuit in Navy
• Crocs Women’s Swiftwater Sandal in Black & White

Mediterranean Cruise Outfits for Casual and Formal Evenings (All items listed below)

Casual Evening Outfits

You don’t have to change or get too dressed up for dinner but many people prefer to, especially after a sweaty day of sightseeing! You can wear your summer dresses with sandals or wedges in the evening. You can even pop the kimono top over a dress or wear a pashmina over your shoulders. A pair of white jeans are great for cruising as they work well for casual evenings with a blouse. A cardigan might be useful on cooler evenings.

• NYDJ Marilyn Straight Leg Jeans in Optic White
• Timeson Sleeveless Chiffon Blouse in Royal Blue Medium
• Weintee Casual Summer Dress with Pockets in Navy
• Spicy Sandia Lightweight Open Front Cardigan in Mustard
• Statement necklace in white
• Vionic Hoola Tawny T-Strap Wedg in Nude

Formal Evening Outfits

You’ll find that formal evenings on Mediterranean cruises are a lot more relaxed than those on Caribbean cruises. After busy days out and about sightseeing in European cities you may feel more reluctant to dress up. And that’s OK! A simple shift dress or two and a pair of wedges or flat sandals is all you need for more formal evenings on a European cruise. A statement necklace, pashmina and a red lipstick can do wonders to elevate an outfit like this for evening. Choose accessories you can wear with both dresses if you’re packing two.

• GRACE KARIN Black Crew Neck Dress
• GRACE KARIN White Lace Cocktail Dress
• Pashmina Shawl

Click to get the printable packing list in PDF format!

Mediterranean Cruise Packing List Printable

Click here to download our printable Mediterranean cruise packing list PDF.

We recommend printing out a hard copy of our packing list for cruise to Mediterranean to help you get organized in plenty of time. Start pulling together clothes you think will work from your closet and then shop for the items you need to fill the gaps. You can mark them off the checklist as you pack.

We’ve included numbers of each item on the packing list to use as a guide as European cruises can often go for a week but some are longer or you might be traveling in Europe before or after your cruise too. When thinking about how to pack for a 2 week Mediterranean cruise vs what to pack for a 7 day Mediterranean cruise, go for the higher number of items instead of the lower. Bear in mind that you most likely can do laundry on the ship if you prefer to pack on the lighter side but still have 7+ days of travel. You can read our post on packing light for a cruise here.

Packing Tips for Europe

When you’re packing for Mediterranean cruise travel, you might also be planning to spend part of your trip in Europe. If you’ve got pre or post-cruise travel plans here are a few packing tips for Europe you might find useful:

• It’s easier to travel around Europe with a smaller suitcase so use the smallest, lightest luggage you can manage. Hotel rooms, elevators and taxis can be small in Europe so larger bags aren’t ideal. There might not even be an elevator at your hotel and they often don’t have them at train stations for moving between platforms.
• If you want to check a larger bag, we would recommend using a 25″ suitcase like this as they’re still manageable but bigger than a carry on.
• Airlines in Europe have strict weight limits for carry on suitcases so double check these before you fly. You might only be allowed 10kgs (22lbs) and some allow you as little as 7kgs (15lbs). 
• Choose a suitcase with four spinner wheels as they are much easier to manoeuvre through busy airports, train stations and city streets.
• Use packing cubes to organize your luggage more efficiently. 
• A cross body bag or backpack with slashproof straps and RFID pockets are essential for Europe.
• Don’t carry all your credit cards, debits cards and cash in the same place. Just take one credit card and a bit of cash out and about with you when sightseeing. Keep the rest safely hidden in your hotel room in your luggage, preferably with a luggage lock .
• A small fold up laundry bag and some travel laundry sheets like these are great for travel in Europe and help you pack lighter.

Got questions or comments?

We hope you’ve found our Mediterranean cruise packing tips useful. If you’ve got any questions on what to pack for a cruise to the Mediterranean, let us know in the comments below. You can also join our Facebook group here to chat to other cruisers and share cruise packing tips!

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Home » Traveling » The Ultimate Packing List for a Mediterranean Cruise

The Ultimate Packing List for a Mediterranean Cruise

May 12, 2022 by Lauren Leave a Comment

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Planning a Mediterranean cruise vacation soon? Lucky you! Here is the ultimate packing list for a Mediterranean cruise. Exploring beautiful European ports of call while being able to stay in one home base of the cruise ship is one of my favorite ways to see a wide variety of cities in a short time. It is important to note that a Mediterranean cruise is different than a traditional Caribbean cruise, as they are generally filled with port-intensive days.

That said, be sure to pack soft, breathable clothing with your most comfortable walking shoes to fully enjoy your day. A lot of walking can be involved, depending on your port plans, so be sure to be prepared with a great cruise packing list.

A European cruise or a Mediterranean cruise is a great bucket list adventure, so before you start packing, read through this list of essential items to be sure to include in your Mediterranean cruise packing list. Let’s get sailing!

“ This post contains affiliate links, which means I receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase using this link. Please see my disclosure for more details. “

Paperwork and Documents to Pack

One thing you want to check as soon as you start researching a cruise ship vacation is what paperwork and documents will be required. This is an essential piece of your ultimate packing list for a Mediterranean Cruise, so don’t overlook it. You may find a variety of rules, depending on if it is a European cruise, a Caribbean cruise, an Alaska cruise, and so on. It is a good idea to read all of the fine print before you put down a deposit on your reservation.

Also, as you read more about major European cities, just like any major cities, it is always a good idea to pack essential items wisely. Consider packing a money belt to hold your most important items, cash, and IDs close to your body.

A few pieces of paperwork and documents to pack for your cruise essentials include:

• photo ID, like a driver’s license
• travel documents, confirmations
• vaccination cards (if required, be sure to upload beforehand if needed)
• travel insurance paperwork (if purchased – highly encourage travel insurance)
• travel books
• port arrival paperwork (if given by cruise line)
• credit card (call credit card company if traveling internationally)
• shore excursions paperwork (if needed)

What should I pack in my carry-on bag?

Be sure to pack a day bag for your first afternoon on the cruise ship. Often, your luggage may not arrive at your stateroom until several hours after embarkation. Along with your important paperwork, include a bathing suit, sunscreen, and flip-flops if you and your family want to hit the pool early (without the heavy crowds.)

You can also include a good book or magazine. Explore the ship a bit and then relax in a lounger by the pool until your stateroom is ready!

Be sure to throw a pair of sunglasses, a hat, and a portable cell phone charger in your bag. Most likely, you will have to report to your muster station during the first afternoon. Most cruise lines are now putting all of your cruise info on an app, so having an updated and fully charged phone is essential.

Contact your cell phone provider before you leave to find out your plan’s policies on using your phone abroad. You can purchase Wi-Fi plans on board many ships, but they can be costly and spotty. You can always use Wi-Fi at many locations during port excursions. WhatsApp is also a great way to message friends back home while traveling abroad.

Consider bringing a water bottle in your carry-on bag. You can refill it often throughout your time on the ship, without having to worry about going back and forth to the restaurants.

I also like to include a travel coffee mug on our sailings, so I can take my coffee on the go, especially when I am trying to make it off the ship for early morning shore excursions. Here are a few of my favorites.

Also, be sure to include any necessary medications, sunscreen, and hand sanitizer in your carry-on bag.

What time of evening wear do I need for the ship?

Consider the line of cruise ship you are sailing with when you think about what type of clothing you will need for your sailing. Are you sailing with Royal Caribbean, Princess Cruises, Disney Cruise Line, or Viking? For most cruise lines, a dressy casual look (think country club) is perfect for evening meals on the ship.

Check to see if a formal night is included in your sailing. If so, consider a formal wear outfit. This may not mean formal attire like a full-on evening gown, but a little black dress or cocktail dress could perfectly fit the bill. A certain dining room (like Remy’s on Disney Cruise Line) may have a dress code, so be sure to double-check your cruise line’s website before you start packing. Throw in some nice versatile dress shoes to dress up any outfit easily.

It is also a good idea to see if your cruise has a Facebook group. Most of the time, you can search your cruise ship and date of sail on Facebook and join a group of other sailors. Here, you may find earlier itineraries from similar sailings, info on formal nights or other costume parties, and even make some friends before your sailing.

Day Wear on Your Cruise

You will want to spend a lot of time exploring the ship during your at-sea days or in the evenings after port excursions. Check the weather forecast for all of your ports before you start packing! This will help you narrow down your ultimate packing list for a Mediterranean cruise. We have found that “Accu Weather” is a great app with pretty accurate forecasts.

If you want to avoid bringing too much luggage, know that laundry rooms are on board the ships. I usually throw a few laundry pods and dryer sheets in a plastic zip bag in my suitcase. You can often purchase laundry soap using your key card with a linked credit card with a pin number.

My favorite casual wear or resort wear for sailings include:

• few pairs of shorts
• light sweaters for evenings and cool dining rooms
• bathing suit
• rain jacket
• tennis shoes
• casual sandals
• dressy shoes
• active wear for working out
• long pants or capris
• earrings, necklaces
• hair accessories
• tote bag or beach bag to take to the pools and hot tubs

Packing for Port Excursions

Consider packing a day pack for your port excursions. Your most valuable items should be kept close to your body. Wear your most comfortable clothing and comfortable shoes.

Here are the best things to include in your port excursion small bag:

• sunscreen for warm weather
• water bottle
• local currency cash
• pair of sunglasses
• cell phone charger
• scarf for covering shoulders for churches and some historic sites
• paper fan or battery-operated fan if traveling during summer months
• camera with extra memory cards (if needed)

Another great tip if you are traveling with children is to consider ordering room service the night before for peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, fruit, and cookies. I pack plastic zip bags and throw these items in my port excursion bag to prevent “hangry” meltdowns. This can be the perfect choice when you are in new territory and not sure when you can find the next snack.

Toiletry Bags

Of course, an essential item of packing includes a toiletry bag. Be sure to pack your:

• toothbrush and toothpaste
• contacts, solution
• brushes and combs
• hair products
• flat irons, curling irons (most ships will provide a placement pad for these hot items)

Most cruise line staterooms will come equipped with a hair dryer. Irons and ironing boards must be requested from the stateroom host or may be provided in laundry rooms. If this is your first cruise, one good tip is one of the best times to run laundry is in the early mornings or late evenings. Of course, laundry rooms will be busier on at-sea days.

Additional Items to Include on Your Mediterranean Cruise Packing List

As you are packing, some additional items to include may be:

• face masks (check your cruise itinerary and guidelines)
• power strip
• voltage converter/adapter (check with your ship)
• pop up laundry hamper or laundry bag
• lanyard for your key card
• an additional card like a supermarket loyalty card to put in the light switch, if you do not want to keep your room key in it
• themed nights outfits
• aloe vera lotion
• motion sickness meds or Sea Bands
• guidebooks or download audio guides on your phone

I hope this ultimate packing list for a Mediterranean Cruise is helpful to you as you plan your next adventure! Have a great time at sea and be sure to sign up for my family packing list down below.

Keep reading for more great travel info!

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What to Pack for a Mediterranean Cruise: 25 Must-Have Items

Taking a Mediterranean cruise can be the perfect way to relax and explore some of the most stunning destinations in Europe. Packing for a Mediterranean cruise on the other hand can be quite the overwhelming process and very much the opposite of relaxing! For that reason, we’ve put together this list of what we think are the top 25 must-have items to pack when going on a Mediterranean cruise to help make your Mediterranean cruise packing as stress-free as possible!

Disclosure: Some links on this page are affiliate/referral links. That said, we only endorse things we've personally used or come highly recommended by trusted peers. If you purchase anything using our affiliate/referral links,

we may get a small commission. However, there's no extra cost to you.

1. Travel Insurance :

This may not technically be an “item” or something that packs in your suitcase, but travel insurance is something that we can’t recommend enough. It’s one of those “better to have it and not need it than need it and not have it” types of things. All it takes is one delayed/canceled flight or unexpected illness/injury to turn a dream trip into a nightmare!

2. Lightweight, Durable Luggage :

We travel almost exclusively in carry-on luggage, and we’ve really enjoyed the 20” Carry-On Luggage from Level8 for short 3-5 day warm-weather trips, but for longer trips or cooler weather trips, we like the extra room that the Platinum Elite Carry-On from TravelPro provides.

3. Luggage Locks :

You never know whose hands your luggage is passing through when traveling. Especially if you’re traveling with checked luggage, so having luggage locks gives a little peace of mind when your bags are out of your care.

4. Luggage Tracker :

For a little extra peace of mind while your luggage is out of your care, be sure to place a tracker in each bag. If you’re an iPhone/Apple user, we recommend using Apple AirTags . If you’re on any other device we recommend Tile .

5. Luggage Tags :

To ensure that the checked-luggage tags from the cruise line stay attached to your bags (and make it to the correct room), we recommend using these luggage tags that are designed specifically for cruise line use!

6. Cruise ID/Card Holder :

Your cruise ID/card is essentially your entire wallet while on a cruise, so it is very important that you do NOT lose or damage it and these ID/Card holders are a great way to keep it protected!

7. Travel Adaptors :

Don’t forget to bring travel adaptors to charge your devices without any hassle since the power outlets in Mediterranean countries may differ from those in your home country.

8. Cruise-Approved Power Strip/Multi-Socket Outlet :

Cruise lines do not allow the use of surge-protected power outlets/adaptors on board, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t bring a power strip or multi-socket outlet… You just have to bring the right one/ones!

9. Portable Charger/Power Bank :

A power bank is essential when traveling to keep your phone and other devices charged throughout the day.

10. Reusable Water Bottle :

Having a reusable water bottle makes it so much easier to stay hydrated throughout the day. Depending on your preferences, we recommend using either an insulated bottle , a filtered bottle , or a collapsible bottle !

11. Liquid IV :

Speaking of hydration, staying hydrated can be difficult when you’re spending your days in the sun especially if you opt for a drink package on your cruise. That’s why it’s important to have a hydration booster like Liquid IV to replenish necessary electrolytes. Some of our favorite flavors are Acai, Passion Fruit, and Lemon Lime. We also like the Lemon Ginger for hydration + energy and the Tangerine immune booster.

12. Day Bag :

A day bag is useful for carrying your daily essentials when exploring the ports of call, so pack a lightweight, foldable bag that can be easily stored in your luggage. It’s a bonus if it’s also waterproof!

13. Comfortable Shoes :

Exploring ports of call on foot is one of the best ways to experience Mediterranean cities, so be sure to pack comfortable shoes that are good for walking. If you’re looking for a sneaker, we really like Adidas Ultraboosts . If you’re wanting to look a little more stylish, we’ve got some options listed on our “Cruise Essentials” list on Amazon . Also, pro tip… Do NOT wear a new pair of shoes on these long walking days without breaking them in at home first. Natalie can speak from experience on this! Lol

14. Lightweight Clothing :

Lightweight, breathable clothing is a necessity for the warm, Mediterranean days, and a light coat and/or pants will make the cool nights much more enjoyable.

15. Waterproof Phone Case :

A waterproof phone case not only protects your phone from water damage but also allows you to take photos and videos while in wet areas like pools, hot tubs, water slides, and beaches.

16. Swimwear :

This one may seem obvious since you’ll likely be visiting some of the most beautiful beaches in all of Europe, but if you’re cruising in the Mediterranean during the cooler months, you might not think to bring a swimsuit. That said, we still recommend it because a dip in the hot tub during the cooler weather is a refreshing and relaxing way to spend an afternoon on the ship.

17. Water Shoes :

While you may be tempted to just bring flip-flops for water activities, there are some activities that proper water shoes are more suited for (i.e. water slides, rocky beaches, jet skis, etc).

18. Sun protection :

Sun protection is crucial, especially during the summer months, so be sure to pack proper sunscreen , sunglasses , and a hat to help combat the harsh UV rays.

19. Walkie-Talkies/Two-Way Radios :

Unless you want to pay for an internet package (which can be quite pricey and unreliable), communication with your party can be difficult while on the ship. That’s why we recommend getting a set of Walkie Talkies/Two-Way Radios for fast, reliable communication.

20. First Aid Kit :

A small first aid kit with bandages, antiseptic wipes, and other basic medical supplies can be extremely useful if unexpected, minor injuries occur. Just be sure to remove any sharp objects (i.e. scissors) if packing in a carry-on.

21. Medications :

Remember to pack any necessary medications, including prescriptions and over-the-counter medications in your carry-on or personal item. Also, bring some pain relievers, allergy medications, and motion sickness remedies for any unexpected illness.

22. Beach Chair Clips/Bands :

In addition to keeping your beach towel in place on your lounge chair, Beach Chair Clips/Bands are also a great way to let other cruisers know that your chairs are being used while you’re enjoying the pool or hot tub!

23. Small, Portable Lock Box :

Leaving items like your phone and/or wallet at your lounge chair while taking a dip in the pool can be a bit stressful. That’s why we recommend bringing a small, portable lock box to give you peace of mind while your valuables are out of sight.

24. HDMI Cable /Adaptor :

TV and movie options can be quite limited and expensive on cruise ships. For that reason, we recommend downloading your favorite TV shows and/or movies to your devices (laptop, tablet, etc.) and plugging into the TV to watch your shows/movies. Depending on what device you plan to stream from, you will also need an HDMI adaptor . If you do happen to purchase an internet package and want to still have access to your favorite TV shows and movies from back home, be sure to use a VPN like Surfshark to change your device's virtual location and keep your device's data protected.

25. Valid Passport and Travel Documents :

This one may seem obvious, but sometimes it’s the most obvious items are the ones that get overlooked. That said, don't forget to bring your valid passport, visas (if needed), and any other travel documents necessary for your trip. And remember… With US passports it is recommended that your passport have six months validity beyond your planned date of departure from the Schengen area and it is required to have at least 3 months validity beyond your planned date of departure.

We hope that this blog has helped you pack for your upcoming Mediterranean cruise, and if it has, we hope that you’ll consider following us on Instagram and subscribing to our YouTube Channel for more travel tips!

If you're interested in seeing what our 7 Day Mediterranean cruise was like, check out our "7 Day Mediterranean Cruise - FULL REVIEW" vlog !

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What to Pack for a Mediterranean Cruise

November 2, 2020 By Gina Posts on this site may contain affiliate links. Read the full disclosure here .

Packing for a Mediterranean cruise requires a balance of resort wear, beach attire, and comfortable clothing for exploring exciting cities and cobblestoned villages. Here are my recommendations on what to pack for both women and men taking a Mediterranean cruise, followed by some additional tips for those famous cruise formal nights.

Mediterranean Cruise Packing Tips for Women

What to Pack for Cruise Ship Time

When you’re hanging out onboard the ship while sailing between ports, there are a few things you’ll want to be sure to pack.

The first is a swimsuit, which may seem like an obvious one; however, you’ll want to also bring a coverup you feel comfortable walking around the ship in when you’re not by the pool. Most staterooms aren’t right next to the pool or sun deck and the quickest route from your stateroom to the pool may be through dining areas or lounges so be sure you feel comfortable walking around in what you’re wearing. Plus, you may want to head up to the Lido deck for a quick bite to eat while at the pool so an appropriate coverup is ideal. I like this tunic option .

The amenities of the ship you’re on will determine what else you’ll want to bring onboard to wear. If you’re on a ship like Royal Caribbean , bring active wear if you want to enjoy the rock climbing walls, wave simulators, or basketball courts. Loungewear for hanging out around the ship during the day and nicer attire for at night will usually suffice for most ships.

People tend to move beyond jeans and maxi skirts for cruise nights, and instead break out the dresses and fancy jewelry for evenings onboard, meaning you won’t look out of place if you do the same – dressing up is part of the fun of cruising! (Think casual cocktail, not formal cocktail attire — the formal nights are another category altogether; keep reading for that section.)

If you’re wanting to wear casual wear in the evenings, double check the evening dress code on the ship since some cruise lines have them even if you’re not planning to eat in the fancier restaurants onboard.

What to Pack for Mediterranean Cruise Ports

Off the ship you’ll want to be comfortable and prepared – and probably at least a little bit stylish, too.

If your Mediterranean Cruise falls in the summer, opt for light, breathable material because it gets hot in the summer in most European cruise ports . Swingy tanktops and linen shorts or pants, or a breezy sundress, will get you through a hot day touring.

As for shoes, save the more fun ones for nights on the ship, such as low heels for nights onboard (depending what size ship you are on I generally don’t recommend high heels since it can sometimes be wobbly while at sea if you’re on a smaller ship or depending on sea conditions) or sparkly sandals to glisten in the sunlight by the pool, but when in port, leave fashion behind when it comes to your shoes. You’ll be doing a lot of exploring, likely in a short amount of time, over cobblestoned streets and uneven trails. Make sure you can make the most of your day by being able to walk fast and by not being in agony!

You don’t want to be hobbling in pain down a scenic cliff trail in Santorini or a beautiful alley in Dubrovnik because you wanted to wear fancy shoes. Just do yourself a favor and put on the hiking shoes or sandals (that you have broken in before your cruise) and enjoy your day in comfort. Besides, you can still find some that don’t stick out as super obvious tourist walking shoes – I like Keen shoes for this reason.

If you’re traveling to a country where women are traditionally more conservatively dressed, like Turkey, you also may want to rethink your city exploration outfit and wear long linen pants instead of shorts and keep a lightweight scarf tied around your shoulders, or opt for a loose, breezy long-sleeved top.

And speaking of a scarf, that is an important fashion accessory you’ll want to bring with you. 

A scarf is your fashion best friend on a Mediterranean cruise.

Here’s why.

If you want to tour any churches, it is important to make sure you’re appropriately covered since you may not be allowed in certain churches otherwise. This typically means having shoulders covered, but also (pretty rarely) may include knees. You can get around this by keeping a long scarf in your bag and wrapping it around your shoulders. An opaque gauzy material that bundles up tightly and doesn’t wrinkle bad works well for traveling.

And if you just need to dress up an outfit a bit, tying a pretty scarf around your neck can work wonders for jazzing up a simple pair of shorts or pants and a shirt. If you’re on a cruise that has a more elegant evening dress code for the main dining room, dress up a simple frock by tying an elegant scarf around your neck. Your scarf can also double as a sarong if your other beach coverup has gotten dirty or wet.

Mediterranean Cruise Packing Tips for Men

As usual, guys have it easier than ladies. Just keep in mind, you are in Europe, where locals tend to dress a bit more fashionable, including the men, so leave your oldest pair of ripped jeans and college t-shirts at home and opt for some crisp lines and trendy colors.

You also may want to upgrade your baseball cap for a more stylish hat or just invest in a pair of good sunglasses to keep the sun out of your eyes while you’re touring European cities.

Onboard, nice slacks and polo or button-down shirts will work well for most dining areas and evening activities, but check the dress code of the ship you’ll be cruising on.

I asked my husband if he had any major Mediterranean cruise packing tips for men based off of his cruise experience to the region.

His verbatim response: “I don’t know, put some clothes in a bag and leave.”

Hmmm, I’m starting to wonder why I included a guys section in this post. However men (and ladies) will want to make sure they pay attention to the next section on formal nights.

Don’t Forget: Cruise Formal Nights

Some cruise lines still have formal nights in the main dining room on one or two nights. You don’t have to participate in these (you can get room service or eat on the Lido deck instead), but they’re actually a lot of fun. I mean, unless you live in NYC and go to galas all the time, when else after prom or being in a wedding party do you get the opportunity to dress up in fancy formal wear?

It depends on the cruise line how fancy you need to get, but most are fine with a suit and tie for men and long or short cocktail dress for women. I have found that old bridesmaids dresses work great for formal nights on cruise ships (such as that pink chiffon one in the picture above).

Cruise Tip: If you don’t pack any formalwear and then change your mind once you’re on the ship, you can often rent formal attire onboard — check with the cruise line before you leave if they offer this service.

Non-Clothing Items to Remember to Pack

• Sunscreen (it’ll be expensive to buy onboard)
• Extra camera batteries and memory cards
• Charger Adaptor
• Journal (these mini moleskine ones are easy to stick in a daypack and have the added bonus of coming in fun colors)
• Extra hair bands (these were surprisingly hard to find in port during my cruise after I lost mine)

Note: This post contains affiliate links, which earn me a commission, but cost nothing extra for you. Affiliate links help me cover the cost of running this site — thanks for supporting One Day in a City!

I'm a former travel agency marketing director turned freelance travel writer. My editorial and copywriting work has been published on and in USA TODAY, Travel + Leisure, the Travel Channel Cities app, TripSavvy, and many more online and print publications. I especially love sharing my knowledge of traveling with limited vacation time, making the most of cruise ports of call, and vacationing with kids. I also enjoy sharing my favorite travel gear and products to make traveling easier!

June 6, 2017 at

Nice blog with awesome tips. The dress is looking good.

May 4, 2017 at

My husband and I are going a med cruise in May. Thanks so much for your tips 🙂

March 17, 2017 at

Thanks for your tips – we’ll be leaving for our cruise on the Med at the beginning of April. Can’t wait!!

March 2, 2017 at

What Mediterranean cruise did you go on? I have been planning go next summer and there are so many different options!

November 12, 2016 at

These were great tips, my husband and another couple are going in April! Can’t wait! Thank you!

August 2, 2016 at

July 13, 2016 at

Thanks for the tips! I wanna go back to the Med!

June 9, 2016 at

We’re going on a Mediterranean cruise in September! Excellent tips we will be sure to remember! Thanks! 😉

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What to Pack for a Mediterranean Cruise in October

Last updated: August 19th, 2022

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While summer is undoubtedly the most popular time of the year to cruise to the Mediterranean —the sunny beaches, the hot weather, the long days spent on the sand—there are tremendous benefits to traveling around Europe during the more under-appreciated fall shoulder season, which kicks off in October and lasts until early November.

During the fall shoulder season, you’ll avoid the large crowds that visit popular Mediterranean destinations during the summer. Restaurants and attractions aren’t as busy, and finding a spot to lay out on the sand is easy.

By this time of year, all the kids are back in school, most Europeans are back at work, and there’s a bit more breathing room to appreciate all the magic the Mediterranean has to offer.

The weather is still quite pleasant in October in the Mediterranean. While temperatures can heat up over the summer, October weather offers a slight chill in the air and can sometimes be warm enough to take a dip in the Mediterranean Sea.

Of course, the unpredictability of the early fall weather makes figuring out what to pack for a Mediterranean cruise in October a little more difficult than just throwing a bunch of swimsuits and sandals in your bag as you would during the summer.

In fact, you’ll want to be prepared for both sunny and chilly days while on your vacation, so you might pack a little bit more than usual.

Read: Warm Places to Visit in October

Packing List for a Mediterranean Cruise in October

Warm sweaters and cardigans.

Repeat after us: layers, layers, layers. Since it’s impossible to predict whether you’ll get warm or cold weather during a cruise to the Mediterranean in October, we suggest packing a combination of light and warm sweaters.

These versatile items should be on your cruise packing list because they can be thrown on or taken off depending on what kind of weather you encounter during your trip. (There’s a reason why October is called sweater weather season.)

Windbreaker or jacket

In October, the weather can get quite chilly once the sun goes down, so it would be wise to bring along a light jacket, especially when you’re off exploring port destinations.

Expect a strong afternoon breeze when the ship is out at sea. While you won’t need to bring a parka, you’ll be thankful you packed a windbreaker or jacket, which will keep you warm as you sip cocktails at the Lawn Club or take in the view at other outdoor spaces onboard.

Read: Best Time to Cruise the Mediterranean

Rain jacket

While the early fall season in the Mediterranean doesn’t typically include a lot of rainfall, it’s never a bad idea to pack a light, waterproof rain jacket just in case. It’s better to be prepared for an unusual day of rain rather than get rained on during an outdoor excursion.

Scarf or pashmina

A scarf or colorful pashmina is a must-pack travel accessory. Not only will it keep you warmer during the chillier days of your cruise, it also works as a way to dress up a more casual outfit.

Scarves and pashminas can come in handy during walking excursions around European cities, where many cathedrals and churches require tourists to cover up their shoulders.

You won’t regret packing at least two swimsuits for your upcoming October cruise to the Mediterranean. While it may be cooler than the summer months, chances are you’ll still have some lovely warm days during your vacation and you’ll want to be able to dip in the bright blue Mediterranean Sea.

You’ll also want to bring a swimsuit if you decide to enjoy one of the ship’s hot tubs during a chilly afternoon onboard.

Hat and sunglasses

Sunny days are common in the Mediterranean in October, so pack at least one pair of sunglasses for your trip. Bring along a sun hat or cap to protect you from the sun during days spent by the pool or ocean and during long walking excursions in all those lovely European cities you’ll be visiting.

Swim cover ups

Swim cover ups are a must for a cruise vacation. You’ll need a cover up for when you’re walking from your stateroom to the pool, and vice-versa. It’s also nice to have one on hand if you plan to spend time on one of the best beaches in the Mediterranean .

Casual, comfortable clothes

If you’re wondering what to pack for a Mediterranean cruise in October, there are several clothing staples that you should make sure to bring year round, regardless of the weather. T-shirts, shorts, jeans, dresses, and skirts will keep you comfortable while you walk around and explore Mediterranean port destinations and the ship.

Pack a mix of long-sleeved T-shirts and short-sleeved tops and bring an equal amount of pants and shorts so you’re comfortable during both chillier and warmer days on your trip.

Dinner or smart casual clothes

Pack dressier clothes for nights out and romantic dinners in port during your Mediterranean cruise. Dinner or “smart casual” attire is also required onboard when you’re having dinner in the main restaurant.

For women, the ship’s smart casual dress code requires skirts, pants, or jeans with a casual top. For men, the smart casual dress code is pants or jeans with a short-sleeve sport shirt.

As always, we want our guests to feel comfortable, so the dress code for smart casual is fairly flexible, but keep in mind that there are still some restrictions. T-shirts, swimsuits, robes, bare feet, tank tops, baseball caps, and pool wear are not allowed in the main restaurant or specialty restaurants at any time. In addition, shorts and flip-flops are not allowed at all during the evening hours onboard.

The smart casual dress code also works for several other areas of the ship in the evening, including bars and lounges and during shows and events at the ship’s theater.

Evening chic clothes

Cruises that are six nights or longer will feature at least one “Evening Chic” dinner night. The Celebrity Cruises dress code for Evening Chic nights is cocktail dresses, skirt, pants, or designer jeans with an elegant top for women, and pants or designer jeans with a dress shirt, button-down, or sweater for men.

The Evening Chic dress code leaves a lot of room for you to show off your personal style. If you’re wondering what to wear on a cruise during these nights, you can flaunt everything from a pair of designer jeans with a stylish top to a cocktail dress you’ve been dying to show off for a special occasion.

There is no such thing as being overdressed to our Evening Chic nights. We consider these nights your opportunity to shine. Don’t forget to take plenty of photos!

Comfortable walking shoes

When considering what to wear on a Mediterranean cruise in October, it’s important to take into account your footwear as well. If you plan on doing some sightseeing around several European cities in the Mediterranean, packing a pair of comfortable walking shoes is a must.

Since the weather might be colder during a Mediterranean cruise in October, we recommend choosing a pair of closed-toe shoes, such as sneakers or boots.

Sandals, flip flops, or waterproof slides

Even though closed-toe shoes are best for excursions in port, you can also bring along a pair of sandals, flip flops, or waterproof slides for those moments you’ll spend by the pool or sunny days at the beach.

Read: Best Beaches to Visit in October

Evening shoes

For dinner, either onboard or at any of your port destinations, you’ll want to leave the sneakers and sandals in your stateroom. For these dressier occasions, women will want to pack a pair of heels, pumps, or dressier flat shoes, while men should consider bringing along a pair of smart shoes.

Light gloves

Just as you should come prepared for warm weather during a late fall cruise to the Mediterranean, it can’t hurt to be equally ready to deal with an unexpected cold front during your trip. While a pair of gloves might sound excessive for an October cruise to the Mediterranean, packing thin gloves in your suitcase isn’t a bad idea.

Backpack or handbag

A backpack or handbag is one of the most essential items you’ll need to pack on your cruise. A backpack comes in handy during port visits, where you’ll need to bring along your documentation, money, phone, camera, change of clothes, and other basic items in order to comfortably enjoy your visit.

Jewelry and accessories

If you feel like dressing up for lunch in Rome or perhaps want to look your best during one of our signature Evening Chic nights on board, add your favorite jewelry and accessories on your Mediterranean cruise packing list .

Other basic essentials

Now that you know what to wear on a Mediterranean cruise in October, are you ready to book a shoulder season cruise to Europe? There are plenty of Mediterranean itineraries to consider this fall.

Start planning ahead and researching your dream fall Mediterranean cruise and get your top pick for itinerary and stateroom type and location onboard. It’s never too early to start planning the perfect vacation.

To book your perfect Mediterranean Celebrity cruise, browse our itineraries or speak with your local travel agent.

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Cruise packing list: 56 essentials chosen by experts.

This cruise packing list includes all of the essentials – plus items you didn't know you needed.

Essentials to Pack for a Cruise

Ensure you have these cruise essentials for your vacation at sea.

Packing for any trip takes some planning, but cruise vacations present a unique challenge – particularly due to limited stateroom storage space and sparse (or overpriced) options for purchasing accidentally forgotten items.

To help you decide what to pack for a cruise, we've curated a list of essentials recommended by cruise experts who regularly sail the high seas. Download the U.S. News Cruise Packing List pictured above to reference while you pack, and read on to learn more about the recommended items and where you can purchase them if needed.

• For packing and planning
• For travel and embarkation day
• For the cabin
• For the ship and shore excursions

Find your perfect cruise

Carry-on bag

Regardless of whether you bring checked luggage, you'll need some type of carry-on bag . Since checked bags need to go through security as they do at airports – and because you may need to wait for your stateroom to be ready, just like at a hotel – you'll want to be able to access any necessities pre-cruise. These might include a swimsuit, sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat for the pools; medications; a bottle of water; and your smartphone, of course. You'll also want to keep your credit card, passport, and any other important documentation or valuables close by. A carry-on backpack works especially well since it can double as a day bag for shore excursions.

Checked bag

While you'll likely want to bring a checked bag, consider sharing one with your ship mate(s) to maximize stateroom storage space. Or, consider bringing medium-sized luggage, such as the The Medium by Away , for checking in.

Read: The Best Checked Luggage Options

Garment bag

Courtesy of Halfday

While many cruises are less formal these days, a garment bag can still be handy for keeping select garments wrinkle-free (since clothing irons are prohibited on cruise ships). Top-rated options include the The Garment Duffel by Halfday and the Briggs and Riley Baseline 22" Carry-On 2-Wheel Garment Bag , both of which double as traditional luggage. If you pack your luggage right, you can make this your only suitcase, in addition to a carry-on bag.

Packing cubes or vacuum-sealed bags

Packing cubes are one of the best ways to organize your belongings for travel – especially in a tight cruise ship cabin. Top-rated options include the Veken packing cubes on Amazon (usually priced around $20) and all of the Pack-It Sets by Eagle Creek. The Pack-It Starter Set is especially ideal for cruising since it includes a garment folder designed to minimize wrinkles in clothing. Some cruisers also swear by vacuum-sealed bags , even though they can be a bit more tedious to pack.

Carry-on caddy

Ashley Kosciolek, senior cruise writer at The Points Guy, recommends a carry-on caddy , particularly if you're flying to your embarkation point. "I have a fabric sleeve that slides down over the telescoping handle on my carry-on to provide pockets for my passport, phone, coffee – all the things I used to have to juggle during check-in."

Digital luggage scale

The compact Etekcity scale – approximately $10 on Amazon – can weigh bags up to 110 pounds and help you avoid overweight baggage fees.

Read: Carry-on Luggage Size and Weight Limits by Airline

Bungee cord

"Especially for travelling with the family, I use a bright-green bungee cord to strap multiple pieces of luggage together," says Aaron Saunders, senior editor at Cruise Critic. "It's a lifesaver when boarding trains or disembarking ships, particularly when you ' re maneuvering a stroller and a little one around, too."

Luggage tracker

Courtesy of Apple

A luggage tracker isn't just useful for air travel. Attach one to your checked cruise luggage to see when it has arrived in your stateroom (or if it's stalled at security). Chris Gray Faust, executive editor at Cruise Critic, doesn't go anywhere without her Apple AirTag after her luggage got stuck in Vancouver for over a week last June. "My AirTag use has expanded beyond my checked luggage, too. I also have AirTags in my handbag, my carry-on, my keychain and my wallet."

Cruise insurance

Due to the unpredictable nature of travel, cruise insurance can be a wise purchase ahead of your voyage. Travel policies can cover unforeseen expenses such as trip interruptions and medical emergencies.

While a passport is often required for cruising, rules can vary depending where you're traveling. Determine whether you need a passport for your upcoming cruise ; if you do, triple-check that you have it packed the day of departure.

Credit cards and local currency

When cruising internationally, consider getting small amounts of each country's currency to have on hand in port. Depending where you go, some local markets may only accept their own country's currency, not U.S. dollars or credit cards. It's also nice to leave cash gratuities for cab drivers, tour guides or servers; in the European Union, 1- and 2-euro coins are convenient and appropriate tips. In ports with vendors that do accept credit cards, be sure to carry a Visa or Mastercard , as some shops and restaurants do not take American Express .

RFID wallet

It's important to protect your travel documents with an RFID wallet like the TIGARI Passport Holder or the ZOPPEN RFID Travel Passport Wallet , the latter of which can hold multiple passports for a family. "Thieves and hackers can steal your credit card information just by using skimming devices," explains Jill Schildhouse, a cruise expert and U.S. News contributor who always travels with her RFID wallet. "And because your wallet wasn't even touched, you won't know it happened until you see your credit card statement."

Read: The Top Passport Holders and Wallets

Medications

Pack more than enough of your prescription medications as well as any over-the-counter medicines you'll need, just in case you encounter an itinerary change or travel delay. While some travelers find it easiest to bring personal medicines in their prescription bottles, others find travel pill boxes to be especially helpful for organization. The Sukuos Weekly Pill Organizer is a well-rated option, with detachable boxes for each day as well as compartments for morning and evening medications.

Sheet masks

Since flying can be so drying for the skin, Faust likes to use sheet masks. "My first step the night before I board (because you should always fly in a day early) is to hydrate with a sheet mask (usually from a Korean brand like Ballon Blanc or FaceTory )," she says. "If I'm meeting up with a friend, I bring an extra sheet mask so our trip starts out feeling a bit like a spa day!"

Magnetic hooks

A surprising fact: Cruise ship cabin walls are made of metal, which means you can optimize your storage space by hanging some of your belongings on magnetic wall hooks. The hooks are perfect for holding bulky coats or boots if you're traveling to a colder climate. You can also use them for wet gear on expedition ships and adventure cruises, or for drying out bathing suits after days at the beach or pool. Purchase a set of magnetic hooks for less than $10 on Amazon .

Like hotels, cruise ships can only provide so many hangers. Bring a few extras from home or pick up a pack from your local dollar store. You might also try packable hangers .

Wrinkle release spray

Whether or not you bring a garment bag, a travel-size bottle of wrinkle release spray, such as Downy Wrinkle Releaser spray , is useful to have on board. If you combine a spritz or two with the steam from your shower, you should be able to smooth out some of the wrinkles in your clothing.

Laundry detergent

"If you don't want to pay for laundry service or spend precious time in the self-service laundry room, bring a small bottle of laundry detergent like Woolite to wash key items in the sink: underwear, bras, quick-dry hiking shorts, bathing suits, etc.," recommends Schildhouse. "Every cruise ship shower has a retractable clothesline you can extend to drape the clothes over while they dry. This can also help cut down on the number of items you need to pack."

Over-the-door organizers

Over-the-door organizers with clear or mesh pockets allow you to find your feminine hygiene products, makeup, jewelry and other small items quickly – without having to hunt through multiple drawers or a tight stateroom closet. It's a good idea to purchase a two-pack like this option by Simple Houseware Store (available on Amazon), since you can also use one to store shoes and maximize floor space.

Courtesy of Poo-Pourri

It goes without saying, but to say it anyway: A toilet spray like Poo-Pourri is a must for your cruise packing list. Any smell – pleasant or not – will travel quickly in small staterooms with small bathrooms. Buy a small bottle to keep in your cabin.

Shampoo and conditioner

Cruise experts agree it's best to bring your own shampoo and conditioner in travel-size bottles, as most cruise ships don't provide separate shampoo and conditioner anymore; instead, they offer all-in-one dispensers. Colleen McDaniel, editor-in-chief at Cruise Critic, likes to pack her shampoo and conditioner in the popular Cadence Capsules , noting she also uses them for another essential: sunscreen. "These capsules are easy to fill, never leak and have clear labels, which you can customize," she says.

Wine or Champagne

Most major cruise lines allow each guest to bring one to two bottles of wine or Champagne on board, while some luxury cruise lines allow even more than that. Disney Cruise Line also gives guests the option to bring a six-pack of beer instead of wine or Champagne. Be sure to consult your cruise line's policies when packing for your trip.

Read: Cruise Line Drink Packages

If you plan to bring wine or Champagne, you'll likely need a corkscrew . While some cruise lines may prohibit corkscrews, others allow them onboard; check your cruise line's policy before sailing. Bringing wine with a twistable cap may be a good alternative.

Portable humidifier

Cruise ship cabins can feel dry – especially in the colder months. A portable humidifier like the GENIANI Erie (less than $25 on Amazon) can provide some relief. At about half a pound, this USB-powered device will fit neatly into your checked bag or carry-on luggage. The travel humidifier features two mist settings and has an automatic shut-off option, plus a night light to help you see around your cabin in the dark.

International travel adapter or converter

You'll likely need a travel adapter, since cruise lines homeported in international locales may have different electrical sockets and voltage strengths than you're used to in the U.S.

McDaniel recommends the OneWorld65 Travel Adapter . "I've used a lot of different travel adapters over the years, but this is my favorite. It charges up to six devices at once, has USB and mini-USB options, and works in over 200 countries," she says. "While many cruise ships have U.S. outlets, most usually also have European outlets. This adapter lets me take advantage of that outlet I'd otherwise ignore." She also notes that while cruise lines are getting better about having more outlets on their ships, it never feels like enough to keep your phone, camera battery, tablet, watch, headphones/earbuds and laptop charged (times two or more if you're traveling with others).

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Sound machine

Cruise experts agree a sound machine can be helpful for blocking out the sound of late-night partiers returning to their staterooms (or your snoring spouse). Schildhouse likes the LectroFan Micro 2 for cruising. "It plays non-looping white noise and doubles as a speaker to play tunes while you get ready for dinner."

Tech organizer

Courtesy of Bagsmart

A tech organizer like the BAGSMART electronics organizer case – available on Amazon for about $20 – can store all your cables, plugs, SD cards and earphones in one zippered, compact bag that will fit easily in your carry-on luggage. Despite its small size, it can also hold bulkier items like a small laptop charging cord.

First-aid kit

A first-aid kit is a good thing to have on hand no matter where you go. You can make your own using supplies you already have at home, or buy a premade first-aid kit on Amazon for about $20. While all cruise ships have medical facilities, it's useful to have these items with you on shore excursions, especially those involving active adventures.

Hand sanitizer

Regularly washing your hands and/or using hand sanitizer is essential to staying healthy while traveling, especially on a cruise ship. Stock up on a few travel-size bottles of hand sanitizer (less than $2 each at Walmart) ahead of your trip. If you're looking for something with less alcohol that's also less drying, check out Babyganics Alcohol-Free Foaming Hand Sanitizer .

If you're a parent, you know that your infant or toddler needs a very specific size – and in some cases brand – of diapers, which may very well be unavailable to you on your cruise ship or in the ports of call. Bring more than enough diapers to play it safe at sea.

Most cruise lines also require that non-toilet-trained infants and toddlers wear swim diapers in the children's water play areas. For the sake of sanitation, kids must be toilet-trained to use the pools on cruise ships.

Read:  The Best Cruises for Babies and Toddlers

Many cruisers like to personalize their cabin with stateroom door decor. Not only is it a fun tradition, but decorating the door can make it easier to locate your room, too. You can find lots of fun decor ideas on Pinterest as well as Amazon .

" Duct tape is a life-saver in many situations," says Kosciolek. "I primarily use it to attach my printed luggage tags, but it's also great for mending clothing issues on the fly and fixing broken luggage until you can get it back home."

"As a parent, I like to bring lanyards with sleeves so my kids can wear their keycards and not lose them," says Erica Silverstein, senior cruise editor at The Points Guy. "We hang them on the magnetic hooks I put on the wall, so they don't get lost in the cabin either."

Courtesy of Sea-Bands

If you're prone to (or think you may be prone to) motion sickness on cruise ships, put a pair of Sea-Bands on your cruise packing list. These soft wristbands use acupressure to prevent and minimize nausea and vomiting on board, and they are a reusable, drug-free alternative to traditional anti-nausea medications. You can purchase Sea-Bands on Amazon or at most drugstores.

If you need something a bit stronger than Sea-Bands (or to use in conjunction with them), Dramamine remains a tried-and-true solution for both preventing and treating sea sickness. Choose the Less Drowsy formula to avoid getting sleepy, and consider the chewable tablets (dye-free) if traveling with kids who are prone to queasiness. Many travelers like Bonine as a remedy for sea sickness as well.

Mix-and-match clothing

Pack a variety of mix-and-match items, also known as a capsule wardrobe, for your cruise. To do this, choose a base color – black or navy blue – for your wardrobe. Next, pack plain, neutral-colored items, then add a few patterned items to the mix. Remember to include a variety of styles (T-shirts, long-sleeved shirts, pants, shorts, dresses, rompers and jumpsuits) and also consider reversible clothing and outfits that can easily transition from day to night.

Read: What to Wear on a Cruise: Daytime, Formal Nights & More

Sports jacket or blazer

Adam Coulter, executive editor of Cruise Critic UK & Australia, recommends packing a sports jacket or blazer. "While cruise lines are getting more casual, what happens if you get that last-minute invite to meet the captain, or there's a meet and mingle where you want to look put together? A jacket will always elevate your elegance (even if you're wearing a T-shirt underneath)," he says. If you're in need of a travel blazer, Bluffworks has some well-rated options; the Gramercy , in particular, gets great reviews.

Themed party attire

Some cruise lines host themed voyages or parties on select nights where passengers can dress up to participate in the fun. You'll want to review your cruise itinerary before you go so you're prepared for the festivities. Bring your buccaneer gear if you're sailing aboard Disney Cruise Line; ships host fun events like Pirate Nights, pirate-themed dinners and a "Pirates in the Caribbean" show. On "The Love Boat"-themed cruises offered by Princess Cruises , pack your platform boots, glittery dresses, bell-bottom pants and halter tops for the line's 1970s-inspired disco party on the deck. No matter the theme, you can't go wrong with a couple of captain hats .

Read:  The Top Party Cruises

Travel wrap

A travel wrap is a versatile accessory that's useful for any trip – even more so on a cruise ship where it can get chilly when the sea breeze picks up. Available in nearly 10 different colors, J.Crew's Oversized Cashmere Wrap is a timeless staple, albeit a bit of an investment; for something less expensive but well rated, try this off-brand pashmina shawl on Amazon .

Packable jacket

Courtesy of Patagonia

If you're cruising to a cold weather destination such as Alaska , you'll need something heavier than a travel wrap, but not so bulky that it requires additional luggage. Consider a packable jacket that folds easily and compactly; travel experts highly recommend the Patagonia Nano Puff Jacket .

Read: Alaska Cruise Packing List: Must-Have Items

Packable hat

If you're headed to the Caribbean or another warm weather destination, you'll want a beach hat to protect your scalp and face from the sun. This packable straw hat by FURTALK (available on Amazon for about $25) is a stylish women's option that features a broader brim and offers UPF 50 sun protection. For more recommendations, browse the best beach hats in a variety of styles.

Comfortable walking shoes

Courtesy of Allbirds

Even if you never step foot off the ship, there is still plenty of walking to do between bow and stern. Closed-toe shoes or sandals with straps are safer than flimsy flip flops when boarding a slippery tender into port (if your ship can't dock directly). Check out our recommendations for the most comfortable walking shoes , which include the popular Allbirds Wool Runners and the Birkenstock Mayari , a modern twist on the classic sandal.

Water shoes

Depending on your scheduled shore excursions, you might also need a pair of water shoes. For something that's both functional and fashionable, we like the Crocs LiteRide 360 Pacer . While not totally waterproof, the Native Jefferson is a water-friendly, versatile option.

Versatile heels

"Over the years, I've learned that the key to avoiding overpacking is to bring one neutral pair of low heels that match every single eveningwear outfit I've packed – from flowy pants to dresses," says Schildhouse, who loves her Rockport Tabitha 2-Strap Heeled Sandals . "They have a cushioned footbed and shock-absorbing heel so you can dance the night away in the club, and a 3-inch block heel with traction to keep you steady on your feet even if the ship's rocking a bit."

Reusable water bottle

A reusable water bottle is useful for filling up at water and beverage stations on your cruise ship; it's also a necessity for shore excursions.

Bathing suit

Pack a couple of swimsuits for the pools, hot tubs and any shore excursions.

Swim cover-up

Another must-have for your cruise packing list is a swimsuit cover-up or two. These are great for wearing over your bathing suit during days at sea, as well as on excursions – especially if you're going on a Caribbean cruise . Amazon sells a variety of stylish, affordable cover-ups, and you can never go wrong with a classic white button-down shirt .

Dry bags are useful for shore excursions where you're likely to get wet but don't want the same to be true for your phone, camera and other precious items. "I use the Outdoor Research Unisex Dry Isolation Pack   and have never had so much as a drop of moisture enter it, which is important for me – it keeps my cameras, documents and important items from getting wet," says Saunders, adding that it functions as a great everyday backpack when it's not raining.

If you need more than one dry bag, cruise expert Brittany Chrusciel recommends the Sea to Summit Lightweight Dry Bag Set . "Having these dry bags, in a variety of sizes, means I can bring all my gear along during a Zodiac cruise or snorkeling excursion without having to worry about it getting wet."

Waterproof phone case

A waterproof phone case is also essential, especially if you plan to take photos. The Hiearcool Waterproof Phone Pouches (available in a two-pack) come with a lanyard so you can both protect your phone and wear it around your neck. They are compatible with most smartphones.

"I like to bring collapsible pails, small shovels , inflatable beach toys, a floppy Frisbee or other things to entertain the kids on the beach if we're going to a private island or beach destination," says Silverstein. "If you can inflate your own inner tube, you don't need to rent a floating mat."

Beach towel

"Although cruise lines provide guests with towels to take off the ship on excursions, they are often bulky and sometimes small," explains Chrusciel. "The Surfer Towel folds up to nearly nothing, so it takes up almost no room in your suitcase and is super convenient to pack in a day bag. What's more, its quick-drying technology means that the lightweight fabric won't be soaking wet when you need to pack up for the day and head back to the ship."

Towel clips

"Even though giant plastic towel clips shaped like a flamingo are a bit cringey, they make it easy to find your spot in a sea of sun loungers," says Chrusciel. "They also solve a common cruise problem: keeping your towel securely fixed to your chair while reading or sunbathing."

Reef-safe sunscreen

Courtesy of Badger

When choosing a sunscreen, look for something that's reef-safe; not only are these sunscreens safer for the environment, but they're also better for you . The active ingredients in reef-safe sunscreens, also known as mineral sunscreens, are zinc oxide, titanium dioxide or a combination of both. Top-rated mineral sunscreen brands include Think , Badger and Raw Elements , all of which also sell lip balm with sunscreen (another essential at sea).

After-sun lotion

You'll want an extra dose of moisturizer if you've been basking in the sun. COOLA makes an after-sun body lotion that cools and hydrates the skin with aloe vera, agave and lavender oil. Previous buyers rave about this lotion, noting they appreciate that the scent isn't overpowering. If you prefer a spray, try this option by Pacifica .

A good book

Sea days are the perfect time to kick back and relax with a book you've been meaning to read. Find an oceanfront lounge chair in a shaded area on the pool deck, or grab a cup of tea and settle into a quiet nook indoors. There's no need to pack more than one book, however, as many cruise ships have libraries.

What not to pack for a cruise

Power strip.

Many cruise lines do not permit power strips as they present a fire hazard, while others allow them as long as they are non-surge-protected. Instead of a power strip, purchase a portable charger such as this highly rated one by Anker , which can power up multiple devices at once. This can be especially useful for shore excursions. When packing for your cruise, also think about your luggage: If it has an included charging port, you may not even need to purchase an additional charging block.

Weapons and restraints

Firearms, handcuffs and the like are not permitted on cruise ships. This rule also includes toy guns on most cruise lines.

While most major cruise lines allow guests to pack a limited amount of wine or Champagne per person, they do not permit hard liquor. Of course, those of age can purchase cocktails at any of the bars on board.

Household appliances

Irons and steamers are not permitted on cruise ships, which is why the aforementioned garment bags, wrinkle release spray and packing cubes are recommended for keeping clothing tidy and neat. Coffee makers and mug warmers are also prohibited.

While you can technically bring you own, it's not necessary as hairdryers are available in every bathroom on most ships.

CBD and marijuana

CBD that's derived from hemp and contains 0.3% THC or less is legal at a federal level. However, each state interprets and enforces this law differently; for example, many states require a prescription for it. Due to the ambiguity of the laws, most cruise lines continue to ban CBD in any form.

Marijuana remains illegal under U.S. federal law, which means you cannot bring it on a cruise ship – even if you're legally able to purchase it in your home state for recreational or medical use.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

For the U.S. News Cruise Packing List, travel writers Gwen Pratesi and Amanda Norcross tapped leading industry experts for their cruise essentials. They regularly update this checklist with new and useful items to pack.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Cruise Lines
• The Best Adults-Only Cruises
• The Best All-Inclusive Cruises

Vacation Ideas for Every Traveler

Tags: Travel , Cruises , Travel Gear

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

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What to wear on a Mediterranean cruise – My 6 top tips

Deciding what to pack for a Mediterranean cruise is all part of the fun, but you can’t just pop into the nearest trendy boutique for anything you forget. Here are my 6 top tips for what to wear on a Mediterranean Cruise, based on my own experience and some advice from my blogger friends too.

For my recent Mediterranean cruise, I knew I’d need clothes for sightseeing, an outfit or two for dinner and perhaps something more dressy for formal nights. Then I might be relaxing on the sun-deck, trying out the spa or making time to visit the gym to work off all that delicious food. And of course I do like to travel light. Who wants to be lugging heavy cases around?

This article may contain affiliate links that provide commission on purchases you make at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Table of Contents

Tip 1 – Check the weather forecast

When considering what to pack for a Mediterranean cruise in May, I knew it should be the perfect temperature for sightseeing. I was hoping for warm sunny days with cooler evenings.

However, living in England where the weather is so changeable I’ve learned never to take sunshine for granted. So the week before our cruise I checked the weather forecast for the coming week in the destinations we would be visiting.

My mobile has a handy weather app for the 7 day outlook. Another website Weather2Travel.com was also useful to check the typical temperature and rainfall for that month. I learned that the weather was likely to be in the 22-25 degree celsius range, cooling down at night.

So I didn’t expect blistering heat and knew I’d definitely need a jumper in the evenings. In the end we had sunny days for most of the week. However there were a few showers as we arrived back in Barcelona, so I was glad I’d packed my rain jacket.

Blogger tips – What to pack for a Mediterranean cruise

Danielle Fear of Cruise Miss says;

“A light jacket during the spring time is also a must! The Mediterranean is warm but evenings can still get a little chilly and you want to be prepared just in case a sharp shower is forecast. Remember to also take a light cardigan or scarf with you when ashore “

Gary Bembridge from Tips for Travellers says;

“Even on warm itineraries in season in the Caribbean and Mediterranean, it can get chilly at night on deck or in the mornings on excursions. Plan to wear layers that you can easily peel off and always include a layer to cope with downpours even if a small folding umbrella or lightweight rain poncho.”

Tip 2 – Consider the activities you’ll be doing

I thought about what to pack for a 7 day Mediterranean cruise and decided that my wardrobe would need to cover four different types of activity.

• clothes for sightseeing
• relaxing on board around the pool
• dressing up for dinner
• a couple of outfits for formal nights.

As we’d be visiting a different destination every day and we like to be pretty active, I packed comfortable but smart city trainers and some pretty flip flops for time on board.

My sightseeing wardrobe consisted of pretty t-shirts and cut-off trousers. But I also packed some vest tops like the orange linen Eileen Fisher top I’m wearing in the photo below for time around the pool. For the evening I packed a couple more dressy tops and my white jeans that would mix and match with my daytime wardrobe.

For a formal night I decided to forego the ball gown as I knew that things are quite relaxed on MSC cruises. Instead I packed a lovely sparkly top from Eileen Fisher as well as my silky Joseph Ribkoff evening cover-up that would make a simple outlook look a lot more glamorous.

You may also enjoy: Norwegian Encore review: a fun cruise experience from Norwegian Cruise Line

Blogger Tips – What to wear on a Mediterranean Cruise

“I can’t pack for a Mediterranean cruise without a pair of pretty flip-flops. They are ideal for both ashore and onboard and if I forgot to pack them I would go into meltdown. One thing I would highly recommend for your Mediterranean adventure is a comfortable pair of shoes or sandals. There is so much to see and do and trust me, you won’t want to miss any of it.”

Tip 3 – Pack versatile clothes that work with each other

One of the secrets of packing light, I’ve learned, is to limit your wardrobe to just one colour scheme per trip. This works well for long weekends where you want to travel with just a small bag. But for the week’s cruise I allowed myself a couple of different colour schemes for my Mediterranean cruise outfits.

For most sightseeings days I stuck to shades of beige, cream and soft pink. For evenings and days on board I teamed orange tops with white or black trousers. The same black trousers could double for evening wear when teamed with a more dressy top.

Take a look at the photos below to see how I stuck to one colour scheme so that I could mix and match different tops with the same pair of trousers.

Blogger Tips

Emma Masson, freelance travel writer says;

“My biggest tip for Mediterranean cruising is to keep it simple. Pack dresses you can wear for dinner and then again during the day sightseeing. Stick to one colour tone and you’ll be able to mix and match all your accessories, bags and shoes to make outfits look and feel completely different.”

Donna Hull from My Itchy Travel Feet says;

“When packing for a cruise, I ask myself, “Can this item be worn at least twice?” If I answer no to the question, then that particular clothing item goes back in the closet. And when I say twice, I don’t mean repeating the same outfit. Using separates, I mix and match clothing items to create many outfits from a small selection of clothing. It’s challenging but fun.”

Tip 4 – Respect the local culture

You’ll have a better travel experience if you are sensitive to the culture of the places you visit. I wince when I see ladies wearing shorts and vest tops in a Muslim country where conservative dress is the norm.

As I enjoy sightseeing there’s a good chance I’ll end up looking around a beautiful old church. Even in Europe it’s considered respectful to cover your shoulders and knees when visiting religious sites.

We planned to visit Tunis on our Mediterranean cruise, so I made sure to pack a top that was appropriate for the more conservative dress in a Muslim society. My Eileen Fisher orange linen top was cool and elegant, yet covered me in all the right places. Elbow length sleeves, no cleavage, no shoulders or knees on show and you will avoid getting attention of the wrong kind.

“Ladies, always pack a pair of ¾ casual trousers and should you wish to enter any religious sites then you do need to ensure your shoulders and knees are covered. “

Sarah Lee from Live Share Travel says;

“A pashmina is a fantastic accessory, which you can use throughout your cruise – to cover shoulders for formal dinners, maintain discreet dress if you should visit a religious site, or to protect against those sea breezes “

Tip 5 – Dressing up is fun, but check the dress code first

On cruises I’ve learned that different cruise lines have quite different approaches to formal nights. Of course we Brits love to make an occasion of dressing up, with glamorous gowns and Black Tie for the men. But some of our American and Aussie friends would happily go to dinner in shorts.

The MSC Cruises dress code is geared for the European dress sense. This is elegant but possibly not as formal as some of the Cruise lines that have a lot of UK guests. My tip is to check the formal dress guidelines on the cruise company website or with your cruise agent. You’ll know where you need to be in the glamour stakes.

Formal dress code for men

Sometimes the websites don’t make it completely clear. In this case head for the discussion boards on sites like Cruise Critic where you’ll generally find some useful guidance. Based on this, Guy decided not to pack his dinner jacket since our suitcase space was limited, but to go for a blazer and smart trousers that he could wear every evening.

His decision proved to be sound, since I saw very few tuxedos being worn on board. There were none even on the gala evenings where the norm was a smart suit and tie. Rather than pack my cocktail dress I went for my sparkly top for the gala evenings. I wore my evening cover-up on other evenings when I wanted to dress up.

“Every cruise line has their own approach to what people should wear on board – as well as the extent they enforce them. For example, Cunard have a strict dress code around “formal” and “informal” nights. Men will be expected to wear black tie and jackets and ladies cocktail dresses and smart separates on those respective nights. However, lines like Disney can allow shorts to be worn on some cruises at dinner time. “

Ana Silva from Mrs O Around the World says;

“Pack cocktail dresses to add a bit of old-school glamour to your cruising experience. Pick some that travel well. No need for crazy heels – simple flats will do and will get you in a Med state of mind. “

Enjoy the glamour!

Emma and Keri from Ladies What Travel say;

“Getting glammed up for the formal dinner nights on our MSC Cruise was great fun and a fantastic part of the cruising experience. The dress code ranged from casual to cocktail and the newsletter delivered to our cabin gave us all the info for that evening. So pack yourself a posh frock – ideally one that doesn’t crease too much – and enjoy.”

Liz Jarvis from The Mum Blog says;

“The Swarovski-studded staircases on board set the tone – MSC is a very glamorous, very Italian cruise line. In the evening, guests dress up for dinner and do that European thing of promenading, so I would definitely take a few gorgeous dresses.”

Tip 6 – Travel crease free

On some cruise ships I’ve been on there were laundry rooms for guests to wash, dry and iron their clothes. However, I was surprised to find that there was not even a facility to iron creased clothes on board MSC Splendida. Of course there is the laundry service which you have to pay for).

However, it didn’t really matter as I had employed my top tip for packing crease free, which is to roll rather than fold your clothes. Pack them tightly into the case, then shake them out and hang them up immediately you get on board.

Obviously it also helps if you select clothes from your wardrobe which are made of crease resistant fabrics, like my lovely Joseph Ribkoff evening cover-up below. I reckon I could have screwed up in my case and it would still have come out looking elegant and crease-free.

Blogger Tip

Zoe Dawes from The Quirky Traveller says:

“I have a full length black dress in jersey with short sleeves which is my absolute favourite for cruises. Dress it up with pretty necklace or colourful scarf and high heels or casual with flat pumps. It rolls up and never creases.”

More articles in my Mediterranean Cruise series

Join me on a week’s Mediterranean cruise with MSC cruises All aboard at Barcelona – Day 1 of my MSC Mediterranean Cruise Bonjour Marseille – Day 2 of my MSC Mediterranean Cruise Palazzo and Gelato in Genoa – Day 3 of my MSC Mediterranean Cruise Naples and an excursion to Pompeii – Day 4 of my MSC Mediterranean Cruise Messina and an excursion to Taormina – Day 5 of my MSC Mediterranean Cruise Tunis and Carthage – Day 6 of my MSC Mediterranean Cruise A day at sea and back to Barcelona – Day 7 of my MSC Mediterranean Cruise

Thanks to MSC cruises who hosted* Guy and Heather’s Mediterranean cruise. Heather and Guy travelled on MSC Splendida from Barcelona on a 1 week cruise calling at Genoa, Marseille, Naples, Messina, Tunis. For more information, visit the MSC Cruises website . Thanks to Eileen Fisher and Joseph Ribkoff for providing me with some lovely things to wear on my cruise.

* More info on my policies page

This article is originally published at Heatheronhertravels.com

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Wednesday 14th of September 2022

Hi we are going on a 10 day Mediterranean cruise on end of may and beginning June next year. What line of hat would you wear? What are your favorite shore excursion. So for packing I should pack both pants and capris. What the best show and best thing to do in the ship? Looking forward hearing you

Sunday 16th of April 2023

@Heather Cowper, What type of handbag wouid you use for 9 day Mediterranean cruise? Thanks,

Going beginning of June

Heather Cowper

Wednesday 26th of October 2022

@Martha For hats, I like to wear a sports cap as it's washable and packs flat. However there are many great styles of hats, either made of fabric or straw styles, so just choose what suits your wardrobe for sun protection. In May / June you could still get cooler days or showers, so I would pack different lengths of trousers. As to shows and excursions, best if you take a look at what's available on your cruise and choose whatever takes your fancy.

Monday 19th of August 2019

Hi Heather noticed that most of your clothing seems to be very casual for day/night. Been on several cruises over the years and tend to dress up at every opportunity as planning your wardrobe is part of the fun. But really feel it’s up to individuals to dress how your comfortable. Noticed that there is a mix of casual and dressy on board and it’s good to have that mix as there isn’t any pressure. I always take a stain remover bar as easy to pack and great to sort stains while on board. An umbrella and lightweight fold up jacket for unexpected showers. And of course a high factor suncream as sunburn can ruin the trip. Enjoy all newbies to cruising as amazing way to travel

Wednesday 28th of August 2019

@JAC Thanks for all your tips on what to take - I know that some people like to dress up and others to be casual, luckily there are lots of cruise options so you can choose the style that suits you.

Saturday 23rd of June 2018

I’ve always heard amazing things about cruises but have never been on one. Seems like a great way to travel and have an adventure on a budget.

Monday 16th of April 2018

Hi again Heather,

great travel tips for the Mediterranean cruise.

I haven't done one yet, but we hope to take the whole family very soon.

Love your guidance on what to wear and your great travel tips.

Cheers Sharon...

Thursday 19th of April 2018

@Sharon So pleased you found this useful

Maureen Boardman

Friday 30th of March 2018

Thanks Heather your tips and photos have put my mind at rest as I am going on my first cruise in a couple of weeks and as I am not one for dressing up for formal gatherings and don't want to go to the expense of buying evening wear knowing it will get pushed to the back of the wardrobe have bought some nice dressy tops and trousers that I will wear again when the cruise has ended.I was a bit worried in case I would look out of place but your blog has made me feel more confident.

Saturday 31st of March 2018

@Maureen Even though most people pack a lot to wear on a cruise, I like to make my outfits multitask so that I can travel light and find that a few colourful and dressy tops look great for evening wear.

Ultimate Winter Mediterranean Cruise Packing List

Are you going on a winter Mediterranean cruise vacation soon? Well, here is your perfect solution on how to pack step by step with the ultimate winter Mediterranean cruise packing list.

This guided packing list will help you whether it is your first cruise or your first time to the Mediterranean in the winter.

I will answer your questions so you will know the best things to pack and what to leave at home for a winter Mediterranean cruise.

(We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases).

How To Pack For A Winter Mediterranean Cruise

I’m sure you are thinking of warm sunny weather as most people do when the Mediterranean comes to mind. But, in the winter months, it can be a lot cooler than in the summer .

It can be mild and sunny or cold and rainy, on a European cruise, so you need to be prepared. Also, on board the cruise ship it can be cooler inside with the air conditioning throughout the ship and in the cabin.

Things to Consider When Going to Europe on a Cruise

Before you spend a lot of time and money buying new clothes or shoes consider a few things first, before you select your items for your cruise packing list. 

What is the Weather like in the Mediterranean in the Winter?

• Going to Europe in the winter months means the weather forecast can be different on each port day from sunny days and warm weather to cold and wet.
• A great way to find out the weather is to check online the average weather forecast for the cruise ports and cities you will be visiting.
• Here are approximate daytime temperatures (but of course, these do vary depending on the port):
• October: 15 – 24*C (59*F – 75*F)
• November: 10 – 21*C (50*F – 70*F)
• December: 8 – 18*C (46*F – 65*F)
• January: 6 – 16*C (43*F – 61*F)
• February: 8*C – 18*C (46*F – 65*F)
• March: 13 – 19*C (55*F – 66*F)

Add Appropriate Clothing and Comfortable Shoes to Your Mediterranean Cruise Packing List

Here are a few things to consider for the Mediterranean cruise port days:

• Bring comfortable walking shoes as there is a lot of walking in European cities . Especially if you are going on shore excursions to religious sites or ancient ruins . 
• The streets/walkways are uneven and there are many stairs to take especially in older buildings.
• Pack appropriate clothing to visit cathedrals and churches as you will need to cover your shoulders, arms, and knees. 
• It is always handy to bring a light sweater/cardigan, shirt or scarf as some places will not let you in if you do not cover-up. This is everyone male or female. 
• Have a look at the official website of the building before you visit to check the dress code of a cathedral/religious site.
• Wear comfortable clothing and breathable clothing as the weather can change throughout the day in the ports of call.
• There are cooler evenings in the Mediterranean region in the winter months – remember this if you have a late sail. Also, on board in the evening, it will be colder outside.
• Bring an umbrella and a rain jacket for rainy days.

What are the Sea Days like on a Mediterranean Cruise ?

• The sea days in the winter will probably not be spent sunbathing by the pool unless it is a lovely warm day as this time of year it is cooler. 
• It can be windy out on the deck.
• The sea can be a little rough sometimes – weather-dependent.
• What to wear? It depends on the activities you plan to do on a sea day, but casual comfortable clothes or resort wear are fine.  
• If you would like to use the hot tub or if there is an inside pool pack your bathing suit.

What Type of Clothes Do You Need for A Mediterranean Cruise?

The first step is figuring out what type of clothes you will need for the Mediterranean cruise. Here are a few things to think about: 

How many formal nights will there be? 

• On average there are one to two formal nights on a seven-day cruise, two to three formal nights on a ten-day cruise, and two to four formal nights on a 14-day cruise. 
• This will depend on the cruise line you are sailing with as they do differ, as do their dress codes.
• On some cruise lines, the dress code for gala night/formal night/elegant night does not require formal wear of long dresses and tuxedos. 
• Check the cruise line website for the official dress code.  
• For example, on MSC you can wear formal attire or your smartest clothes. This makes a difference when you are packing your luggage.    
• Here are the links for current formal night dress codes:
• M SC Cruises
• Princess Cruises
• Costa Cruises
• Royal Caribbean 

Will there be a White Night?

Some cruise lines have a white party which is held on the pool deck or in one of the lounges on the ship (weather dependent) – where you guessed it everyone wears the colour white. This is an easy one for most people if you like wearing white!

Dining – where are you planning on eating while onboard?  

• Where are you going to eat; in the dining room, buffet, or speciality restaurants?  
• If you are planning on eating in the main dining room, pack dressier clothing – smart casual.
• On formal nights you will need to wear the dress code of the cruise line if you would like to eat in the dining room for formal dinners.
• In most speciality restaurants you can wear casual/smart casual (even on formal nights). 
• In the buffet, clothing can be casual (even on the formal nights).

Will you be going to the gym or fitness classes? 

Pack your workout wear if you plan to use the gym or take a fitness class on board. But only pack it if you are going to use it!

What wear on port days? 

• My tip is to pack layers as if it gets warm you can take layers off or put them on.
• If you are planning on going on shore excursions or walking around the ports on your own, wear comfortable footwear, as most paths are uneven. 
• There is nothing worse than your feet hurting halfway through the day or getting a blister.
• In Europe , the stairs need to be used in most buildings and your walking route may be longer than you are used to. 
• Trainers (sneakers), walking shoes, slip-on comfortable shoes that go with your outfits I recommend.
• Depending on the duration of your cruise you may need to use the laundry facilities. Some cruise lines have passenger laundry rooms that you can use or there will be laundry services on board. 

What to wear on sea days?

You can wear whatever you like as it depends on the activities you plan to do. Follow the dress code for the evening.

How To Pack the Ultimate Winter Mediterranean Cruise Packing List

Now let’s start talking about how to pack for a winter Mediterranean cruise without bringing too much luggage!

When packing for a winter Mediterranean cruise check the weather (see above for weather help) for all the ports as it can vary from the north to the south of the Mediterranean. 

The easiest way is by packing layers and by sticking to a colour theme, so all your clothes mix and match.

Colour Theme for your Mediterranean Cruise Packing List

First, decide on the colours you would like to wear, this way you can mix and match your clothes.

• 2/3 base colours for pants/skirts/shorts – For example black, navy, beige, brown, white, cream, etc.
• 2/3 colours for tops/tees/sweaters/cardigans – For example white, red, pink, green, blue, black, etc.

This means not adding any random colours that do not match anything.

Ultimate Winter Mediterranean Cruise Packing List for Women

Here is your ultimate cruise packing list for a winter Mediterranean cruise broken down from daywear to evening wear for women.

This cruise packing list is for a seven-day cruise, but you can double it if you are going on a 14-day cruise. Or add a few more items for a 10-day cruise or just wash/send to the laundry some of your clothes while on board.

Cruise Daywear for Women

Daytime cruise wear for shore excursions or doing your own thing in the Mediterranean cruise ports or on the sea days, these are all clothing items you will need:

• 2 – 3 Pairs of jeans/trousers
• 1 Pair of shorts or a skirt (optional)
• 5 – 7 Casual tops/shirts (long/short sleeve) 
• 3 – 4 T-shirts/tank tops/thermal layer (for layering) 
• 3 – 4 Light Weight Light Sweaters/Cardigans 
• Lightweight Jacket/Rain jacket
• Warm Hat, scarf & gloves
• 1 – 2 Pairs of Waterproof Trainers/Walking Shoes/Flat Shoes
• Money belt for cash/credit card/ local currency
• Umbrella 
• Pair of sunglasses
• Bathing suit/Cover-up/Flip Flops /Beach bag (pool towels are available to use on board)
• Water bottle
• Day bag/Day pack/Backpack/Small Bag

Cruise Evening Wear for Women

For the evening on board this is all evening wear and formal wear you will need:

• 2 – 3 Pairs of smart pants/skirts 
• 3 – 5 Smart tops/blouses
• 1 Smart dress/little black dress (optional)
• 1 White Dress (optional for white party)  
• 1 – 2 Formal Dresses – cocktail dresses/evening gown 
• 1 Pair of high heels
• 1 Pair of Ballet Pumps/Flats
• Formal clutch bag/purse
• Light Weight Scarves 

Cruise General Daily Items for Women:

• Workout wear (if you use the gym/fitness classes)
• Swimwear/Overup/Flip Flops (if you use the swimming pool onboard)
• Socks/tights (pantyhose)
• Jewellery/Watch

Cruise Toiletries for Women:

There are usually hair dryers, shampoo, and shower gel in the cabin, so you can leave those out at home if you like. Here are the toiletries you may need:

• Cleanser 
• Makeup remover
• Moisturiser
• Conditioner
• Body Lotion
• Razor/Shaving gel
• Medications 
• Hair dryer / Curler / Straightening irons 

Ultimate Winter Mediterranean Cruise Packing List for Men

Here is your ultimate cruise packing list for a winter Mediterranean cruise broken down from daywear to evening wear for men.

This cruise packing list is for a seven-day cruise, but you can double it if you are going on a 14-day cruise. Or add a few more items for a 10-day cruise or just wash or send to the laundry some of your clothes while on board.

Cruise Daywear for Men

• 2 – 3 Pairs of jeans/pants
• 1 – 2 Pairs of shorts (optional)
• 5 – 7 Casual tees /shirts (long/short sleeve) 
• 2 – 3 T-shirts (for layering) 
• 3 – 4 Light Weight Light Sweaters 
• 1 – 2 Pairs of Waterproof Trainers/Walking Shoes
• Swimming trunks / Flip Flops (pool towels are available to use on board)

Evening Wear for Men

• 2 – 3 Smart pants/chinos/jeans
• 3 – 5 Smart shirts/Polo shirts
• Tuxedo/formal shirt/bow tie/cumberbund or Suit/shirt/tie
• White outfit (for white night – optional)
• Smart Shoes/Dress shoes

General Clothing Items for Men

• Swimwear / Flip Flops (if you use the swimming pool onboard)

Cruise Toiletries for Men

• Face Wash  
• Shaving Gel

Cruise Carry-on Luggage

This is one of the most important parts of your luggage as a carry-on (hand luggage) is the only piece you will be able to take to the stateroom (cabin) straight away. Your main luggage will be delivered to your stateroom before the cruise ship sails. 

So pack all the essential items you will need for the first day of your cruise:

• Carry-on bag
• Travel documents
• Change of clothes (pack in packing cubes )
• Essential items – medications/money/credit cards/passport, etc
• Toiletry bag

You may also enjoy reading the best cruise accessories to add to your packing list, which has lots of cruise essentials that will make your cruise go more smoothly. 

Between helping you with your packing, making your stateroom more functional, and handy gadgets for time in port days and on board. Read now:

BEST CRUISE ACCESSORIES TO ADD TO YOUR PACKING LIST

I hope this Mediterranean cruise packing list has helped you and answered your questions. Did I miss anything? If so, please comment below I would love to hear your thoughts. 

Cruise Lines that Cruise the Mediterranean in the Winter

Most cruise lines go to the Mediterranean in the summer months for Europe cruises. Only a few sail around the Mediterranean in the winter months, for example, MSC Cruises and Costa Cruises. 

Most cruise lines like Princess Cruises and Royal Caribbean sail until November and start again in the spring. Winter is a great time to visit the Mediterranean as it is cooler and a good time to go sightseeing.

Pros and Cons of Cruising the Mediterranean in the Winter

There are pros and cons of cruising the Mediterranean in the winter, and it is completely different to going on a Caribbean cruise. 

It can be one of the best times to go and is a great way to see a lot, as it is not so hot. The winter months can be the perfect choice if you prefer it to be quieter on board and in the cruise ports.

I have written an article weighing up the pros and cons, read more here:

MEDITERRANEAN CRUISING IN WINTER PROS & CONS

Cruise Essentials

Here are some cruising accessories from Amazon you may find useful on your next cruise. To see more, have a look at my Amazon shop page and click here .

More Cruise Packing Guides for Your Next Cruise

6 HANDY THINGS IN A CRUISE SHIP CABIN

HOW TO PACK A CAPSULE WARDROBE FOR A 7-DAY CRUISE TO ALASKA

THE ULTIMATE CRUISE FORMAL NIGHT GUIDE

WHAT TO WEAR ON SMART CASUAL NIGHTS ON A CRUISE

5 TIPS HOW TO BUY & PACK A CAPSULE WARDROBE

I hope you have found this information helpful and now know how to pack for a winter Mediterranean cruise, using the ultimate Winter Mediterranean cruise packing list.

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Happy Cruising!

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9 Best Culinary Cruises for the Most Delicious Trip You’ll Ever Take

The best culinary cruises to book in 2024.

F or many, food is the best part of travel—and I can relate. I've taken cruises all over the world, and they've led to many culinary firsts for me: My first-ever lobster was on a Caribbean cruise when I was just a teenager, my first bite of reindeer came in a cozy bowl of chili during an Alaskan cruise, and my first (and last!) time eating escargot happened on a cruise in the Mediterranean. While these dishes were all parts of the all-inclusive menus on my cruises, I decided to kick things up a notch on the foodie scale by hopping on board the growing trend of special culinary cruises, which feature food and wine in a variety of special ways. These days, you’ll find the best cruises partnering with celebrity chefs, featuring specialty-dining venues and offering excursions filled with meals you’ll dream about long after you return home.

"I helped start the first culinary-themed cruises in the early '90s when I began noticing interest, and today this concept is more popular than ever," says Executive Chef Rudi Sodamin, head of culinary arts on Princess Cruises and Master Chef for the Holland America Line. "Experiential food and beverage experiences are often some of our most popular activities on board. It is my goal to surprise and delight guests while also educating them and meeting their every gastronomical desire."

Getting hungry yet? We’ve rounded up the best themed cruises for every type of foodie—from seafood lovers and wine aficionados to fans of French, Italian and Spanish cuisine. I’ve been on my fair share of these cruises, including a recent one to the Mediterranean, and trust me when I say these trips may just become your favorites of all time .

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Best for Napa Valley wine pairings

Princess 7-day pacific wine country cruise.

If you love Napa by land , you'll love it even more by sea, and it's now an experience you can have on any Princess Cruises ship sailing North American itineraries. In spring 2023, the cruise line partnered with Wagner Family Vineyards (the producers of Caymus wines), a leader in Napa Valley cabernet, for its five-course Caymus Vineyards Winemaker Dinner. Held two or three times per cruise, it features a dinner for up to 12 guests that could very well be the highlight of their entire vacation. On a recent sailing, which started in Vancouver, British Columbia, and wended its way through San Francisco and Los Angeles, the food was fresh and sophisticated—and tailored to guests’ dietary preferences as needed.

The Winemaker Dinner menu consisted of an amuse-bouche (beef carpaccio or marinated fresh oyster mushrooms), a first course (fresh summer black truffle risotto with 36-month-aged Parmigiano Reggiano), main course (prime beef tenderloin with blossom artichokes or seared king salmon with giant prawn), cheese course and dessert (a beautiful chocolate raspberry creation). Oh, and each course was perfectly paired with the appropriate Wagner wine—including cabernet sauvignon, pinot noir and sparkling wine—hand-selected by Chuck Wagner, the owner and winemaker of Caymus Vineyards.

It takes a talented team to pull off an epic meal like that as well as the other offerings on board. "At Princess, we have such a diverse group of chefs, which is a huge benefit to us, as we are able to use their expertise to introduce authentic flavors from all over the world," says Sodamin. "I present food as art—to be created with passion and served with love."

• The food is specifically crafted to complement the tasting notes of the wines.
• Wagner Family Vineyard wines are available at all restaurants on the ship.
• Some Princess Cruise itineraries offer memorable shore excursions to Sonoma wine country.
• There's an additional cost of $140 per person for this experience and a slight upcharge for all Wagner wines at any meal on the ship.

Best for fresh seafood with a celebrity chef

Holland america line 7-day eastern caribbean cruise.

Fans of Iron Chef Masaharu Morimoto now have another way to experience his Japanese cuisine beyond his various restaurants around the world: on board the Nieuw Amsterdam . Holland America debuted Morimoto by Sea on Dec. 16, 2023, offering Asian-inspired dishes and beverages from Chef Morimoto, the cruise line's "Global Fresh Fish Ambassador." On this Caribbean cruise , you'll dine on appetizers such as sticky ribs, hamachi tacos, Morimoto fresh-tuna pizza and a sushi plate. Main courses include crispy fried whole-market fresh fish, angry lobster pad Thai, Japanese vegetable curry, and a surf-and-turf with wasabi-mayo lobster and grilled Wagyu kalbi. Watch for pop-up Morimoto by Sea events once per cruise on the fleet's other 10 ships too.

• Holland America's new Global Fresh Fish Program offers more than 80 varieties of fresh fish sourced locally
• The restaurant also highlights Chef Morimoto's exclusive alcoholic beverages, including a rosé and sake.
• The menu includes vegetarian and vegan options.
• There's a $55 coverage charge per person, plus an additional 18% gratuity.

Best for French food and wine

Uniworld boutique river cruises 8-day brilliant bordeaux cruise.

The France-based S.S. Bon Voyage is the perfect choice for food and wine–loving cruisers: This Uniworld river cruise is basically a floating boutique hotel designed to immerse guests in French culture and wine. The Southwest France itinerary features the country's beautiful landscapes, wines and culture in Fort Médoc, Cadillac, Blaye and Libourne. On board, head to La Cave des Vins, a specialty dining venue that features a communal table in a private dining room where guests will experience a cooking demonstration and culinary experience that captures the essence of France .

Additional onboard dining experiences include La Brasserie, serving traditional bistro fare, and Le Grand Fromage, offering menus reflective of the local cuisine and prepared with locally sourced ingredients. Excursions take guests into the Bordeaux region for activities such as a walking tour and wine tasting at Saint-Emilion; an artisanal wine tasting at Château de Cazeneuve; and a bike ride tour through the lush Médoc vineyards.

• You'll get to explore one region (along with its food and wine) more deeply, rather than visiting multiple countries.
• The ship holds only 124 guests, for an incredibly intimate experience.
• Six days of excursions are included—and all are hosted by English-speaking local experts.
• It has a higher price point, but it's the most all-inclusive cruise line. (It includes premium spirits and wine, gratuities, wellness classes, airport transfers, Wi-Fi, entertainment, and bicycles and Nordic walking sticks for onshore use.)

Best for local foodie experiences

Windstar cuisines and cultures of spain, portugal and france cruise.

Windstar is the official cruise line of the James Beard Foundation (JBF), the nonprofit culinary arts organization that celebrates, supports and elevates the people behind America's food culture. The Foundation firmly aligns with Windstar's commitment to fresh and local epicurean experiences around the world, as well as efforts to reduce food waste. Join Chef Tanya Holland—this Top Chef Season 15 contestant is known for her inventive take on soul food and was the host and soul food expert on Food Network's Melting Pot—on a 10-day cruise focused on the cuisine and cultures of Spain , Portugal and France. Windstar culinary cruises include a chef-hosted dinner with wine pairing, two cooking demonstrations (with recipes you'll take home!) and a market tour with the chef.

• Foodie-focused excursions include a river cruise with wine tasting in Porto, a vineyards and cellars tour in Bordeaux, and an oyster tasting in Cancale.
• Windstar offers other world-class meals on board, with nightly menus crafted to highlight the regional cuisine and inspired wine pairings.
• The newly remodeled Star Legend carries only 312 guests, and all cabins are suites.
• This cruise has a higher price point than some of the others.

Best for satisfying any appetite

Royal caribbean icon of the seas cruises.

Can you even imagine a single ship holding 40 different dining and drink venues? That's just one of the many impressive things that the world's largest cruise ship, Icon of the Seas , has to offer. No matter what flavors you're craving—we're talking pizza by the slice, sushi, caviar, oysters, burgers and tacos—you can find it on board.

Royal Caribbean is introducing several firsts on this ship, including the Empire Supper Club, an eight-course journey of traditional American fare (think: Wagyu New York strip steak topped with fresh-shaved truffle) that's perfectly paired with live jazz music. Other newcomers are the AquaDome Market, the line's first food hall with five dining options; a milkshake bar called Desserted; and the Celebration Table, a private 12-seat dining experience with family-style service perfect for commemorating a milestone. In the evenings, grab a cocktail at Dueling Pianos (a first of its kind in the fleet, with battling baby grands), a glass of prosecco at the new walk-up champagne bar Bubbles or a pint at English pub Point & Feather.

• This ship sails the Eastern and Western Caribbean, so some excursions will offer rum tastings, Caribbean food tours and lunches the local way.
• Each cruise stops at Perfect Day at CocoCay, the cruise line's private island, which offers a slew of restaurants (most of which are complimentary) and bars (if you've purchased a specialty beverage package for your cruise, it will apply here too).
• You'll also find Royal Caribbean restaurant staples on board, including Sorrento's Pizza, Sprinkles ice cream, Chops Grille and Giovanni's Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar.
• You'll have to pay extra for certain dining venues, as well as all alcoholic drinks and specialty coffees.
• It's more expensive than most Royal Caribbean cruises because it's a brand-new ship.

Best for sushi with a celebrity chef

Crystal 14-night cruise from athens to rome.

Crystal is already known for its high-end and award-winning culinary experiences—and now it's brought one of the most legendary chefs in the world on board. Behold Umi Uma, a restaurant created by Master Chef Nobuyuki (Nobu) Matsuhisa for Crystal's Serenity and Symphony ships. This innovative Japanese-Peruvian fusion cuisine features delectable dishes like a crispy rice cake with spicy tuna tartare, Nobu-style lobster tacos, grilled Australian Wagyu beef fillet steak and Nobu-style black cod. Or choose the Sushi with Connoisseur, which features various sushi, sashimi and rolls.

Certain itineraries—for instance, the Athens to Rome Mediterranean cruise —make foodie excursions a priority, with a tasty street food tour of Izmir, a cooking class in Mykonos, olive oil tastings in Crete, a pizza tasting in Naples and wine tastings in Turkey. Between the onboard offerings and seaside activities, this is truly one of the most well-rounded culinary cruises.

• Two complimentary reservations for two people on voyages 12 to 22 days in length, and unlimited free visits for guests staying in Crystal Penthouse or Junior Crystal Penthouse Suites.
• There are 11 distinct dining options on board, including 24-hour in-suite dining service.
• There's nearly one staff member per guest, and the crew will know you by name.
• Reservations above the complimentary allotment are $50 per person.
• It has a higher price point than some other cruises on this list.

Best for Mediterranean excursions

Viking iconic western mediterranean cruise.

Some people take cruises for the at-sea experience; others use it as a mode of transportation to get where they want to go. While every minute on board a Viking ship is spectacular, the real magic happens off the ship on this Western Mediterranean itinerary through Spain, France, Monaco and Italy. Because the Viking Saturn is a small ship (930 guests), it can dock overnight in some ports, which means you can enjoy authentic dinners and nightcaps in town.

On this particular cruise, you'll have that experience in Barcelona (paella and a flamenco show, anyone?) and again in Florence (you're in the famous Tuscan wine region, so have a glass or two of Chianti with your pasta). Shore excursions include cooking in a Tuscan castle, dinner at a Michelin-starred restaurant, food and wine trails through Tuscany, and "The Kitchen Table," where you'll join the ship's executive chef for a tour and shopping experience through the local market (you'll gather the ingredients that the chef will prepare for you back on board).

• Beer, wine and soft drinks are included with lunch and dinner; plus, you have access to complimentary 24/7 room service.
• Onboard dining options include regional cuisine and locally sourced ingredients, as well as food-and-wine pairings at The Chef's Table specialty restaurant.
• You get one complimentary shore excursion in every port of call.
• It's pricey, but a lot is included in the rate.

Best for Michelin-starred dining

Celebrity 7-night spain, france and italy cruise.

Great meals and wine are a part of any Celebrity sailing—it was voted best cruise line for food and dining by Cruiseline's Member Choice Awards in 2022 and holds an Award of Excellence from Wine Spectator for 2023. Each ship has myriad complimentary dining venues inspired by global and regional flavors, alongside specialty restaurants ranging from seafood and oyster bars to Paris-style bistros. And at the helm sits Celebrity's Global Culinary Ambassador, Chef Daniel Boulud, who holds many culinary accolades from the James Beard Foundation, as well as multiple Michelin stars.

His onboard restaurant, Le Voyage by Daniel Boulud, features a menu that gives guests a taste of the places that have inspired him around the world, such as 5-Spice Duck Pithivier, Brazilian Moqueca and Risotto au Homard. He has also designed signature dishes for Luminae, the cruise line's private dining experience included for all guests of The Retreat. (Guests who book these suites have access to premium amenities, such as free drinks and Wi-Fi and access to a private sundeck and lounge.)

• Celebrity Ascent is the fleet's brand-new ship (it debuted Dec. 3, 2023), and it's the most innovative in the Edge series.
• There are 32 distinctive restaurants, bars and lounges on board—including 14 cafes/bars/lounges, eight specialty restaurants, four main dining restaurants, four complimentary casual dining venues and two exclusive restaurants.
• This itinerary hits some of the most fantastic foodie cities in Europe: Barcelona and Valencia, Spain; Nice, France; and Portofino, Florence and Rome, Italy .
• A cover charge applies for dinner at Le Voyage.

Best for vegan food

Carnival cruises.

Calling all plant-based diners who love to cruise: A new vegan menu is currently available on Carnival Freedom in Port Canaveral, Florida, and Car nival Horizon in Port Miami—and will soon be implemented fleet-wide in a phased approach. Carnival chefs created recipes for each of their dishes to be prepared without the use of animal products, and the proteins included are made from meat substitutes. Look for tempting options such as Hawaiian Salmon Poke made with plant-based salmon, Spaghetti Carbonara with vegan bacon, Grilled Tofu Steak, and Eggplant Cutlet a la Parmigiana. For dessert, try the Cappuccino Pot de Crème or Key Lime Velvet Cake. Off the ship, the Caribbean is no stranger to plant-based foods, from rice and beans to perfectly ripe tropical fruits, so you'll have plenty of options there too.

• One of the most affordable cruise lines , with four-day Bahamas cruises starting under $250 per person.
• Meat eaters shouldn't miss celebrity chef Guy Fieri's mouthwatering burgers at Guy's Burger Joint.
• Adult beverages can be found on the Lido Deck at RedFrog Rum Bar and BlueIguana Tequila Bar.
• The vibe tends to be rowdier on Carnival cruises.

About the expert

• Executive Chef Rudi Sodamin is the head of culinary arts on Princess Cruises and Master Chef for Holland America Line.

The post 9 Best Culinary Cruises for the Most Delicious Trip You’ll Ever Take appeared first on Reader's Digest .

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What Should I Pack for 10 Day Cruise to the Caribbean?

Are you completing your Caribbean cruise packing list? Our guide equips you with everything you'll need, from carry-on essentials to sun protection and fun extras.

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A 10-day cruise through the Caribbean is an adventure of a lifetime, full of pleasant weather, fascinating cultures, and amazing landscapes. However, it might be challenging to make sure you have everything you need for the trip. Knowing what to pack will help you be as comfortable and enjoy the trip as possible, whether it's beach essentials or clothing for the evening. In this comprehensive packing list guide , we'll go over everything you need to bring for your 10-day Caribbean cruise so you'll be prepared for everything that may arise during your tropical getaway.

The Ultimate Packing List for 10 Days Cruise to the Caribbean

1. stow a carry-on bag:.

The greatest option for cruise trips is carry-on luggage. They let you store a few things close by while you wait for your luggage to be delivered to your stateroom. In your carry-on, be sure to segregate your important cruise items. To ensure you can begin your vacation right away, pack an extra pair of clothes, identification, travel documents, prescription medications, and a swimsuit.

2. Perfect Caribbean Outfits:

Bring a lot of airy, breezy pieces that are suitable for warm weather, like sundresses, T-shirts, shorts, and airy slacks . Bring sarongs or cover-ups for extra sun protection and versatility while heading from the beach to other activities onboard. Since dinner and entertainment on cruise ships usually entail formal or semi-formal evenings, it is a good idea to pack a few dressier things. Choose walking-friendly sneakers for shore excursions and port exploration and dressier versions for activities throughout the night.

3. Sun Protection Must-Haves:

If you intend to spend a lot of time outside, wearing high-SPF sunscreen to protect your skin from the Caribbean sun is recommended. Periodically reapplying it is also crucial. Keep a good-quality pair of UV-blocking sunglasses handy at all times to protect your eyes from the intense tropical sun. In addition to offering extra protection for your face and neck, wide-brimmed hats also look great as poolside accessories.

4. Travel Essentials:

Make sure you have all the required paperwork, such as your passport, cruise itinerary , and any required visas. Bring adequate prescription and over-the-counter drugs for any typical symptoms you may need, such as headaches and seasickness. To protect yourself against unforeseen circumstances like misplaced luggage, urgent medical attention, or trip cancellations, getting travel insurance is highly suggested. Bring power adapters with you so you can charge your electronics onboard.

5. Personal Care Products:

Bring travel-sized versions of all the essential personal care products , such as body wash, shampoo, conditioner, and toothbrushes. Assemble a modest first-aid kit with basic supplies like bandages, antiseptic wipes, painkillers, and medication for motion sickness. Remember to include necessary hair care products like combs, brushes, ties, and styling tools in your luggage to guarantee that you can keep your favorite hairdo during the trip.

6. Optional Extras:

For a more customized experience, if you intend to snorkel on shore excursions, then think about packing your own mask, snorkel, and fins. Accessorize your formal evening dress with diamonds, ties, or bowties to enhance the look of your attire. On your Caribbean cruise, make sure you pack a camera or a smartphone with good camera quality so you can take and edit amazing pictures and videos. For the duration of your journey, carry a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated both onboard and on excursions. Bring amusement with you on your trips, such as novels, games, or movies on your portable electronics.

Related:   What Should I Pack for a Caribbean Cruise Vacation ?

Packing for a 10-day cruise can be exhausting, and it necessitates thoughtful packing to make sure you have all you need for a relaxing and pleasurable trip. If you follow these detailed directions for your packing list, then you'll be ready to make the most out of your trip to the tropical regions. It's critical to travel light, prioritize comfort and convenience, and leave room in your suitcase for keepsakes and mementos from your incredible Caribbean cruise. Have safe travels!

Packing is your task, but we can assure you seamless booking through CruiseBooking.com!

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