What to Pack for your Mediterranean Cruise
At first glance of your Mediterranean cruise itinerary, the thought of packing for your voyage is both exciting and daunting. Between foreign ports, formal evenings, dinners and on-shore activities, you’ll want to make sure you are smartly prepared without having to drag along everything but the kitchen sink. To make things a little easier, we’ve compiled some of our favourite tips and tricks to help you pack perfectly for your holiday at sea.
In the Suitcase
The cornerstone of your packing list should be chic and functional pieces that can carry you through the day. The Mediterranean is hot so light colours in breathable fabrics should be first in your selection. Whether you’re relaxing on-board or off on an exciting day in port, resort casual attire is preferred. Keep in mind swimwear and beach cover-ups are usually not permitted in restaurants and some attractions don’t allow you to enter with bare shoulders. As the sunsets, take things from day to night with elegant casual attire. For ladies, a cocktail dress or dressy separates are always in fashion. For the gents, be sure to bring dark slacks, collared shirts, jacket and dress shoes. Be sure to throw in a few jerseys as evenings can be chillier. When you’re packing, keep it light by picking pieces that can be mixed and matched easily with other items.
Bits and Bobs
You’ve got your cruise wardrobe planned, what about all the extra things? We’ve sifted through our years of experience to bring you the items you won’t want to forget.
1) Camera
It might seem like an obvious one, but certainly something you’ll really miss if forgotten. Make sure you’ve got the right battery charger, power adaptor and an extra memory card to swap out. That way if you lose the camera, you don’t lose all those great memories!
2) Tote or Beach Bag
Throw in an extra change of clothes, shoes, water bottle, book, sunscreen and away you go! Ideal for shore excursions or lounging poolside, you’ll have everything you need for the day, packed like a pro.
3) Comfortable Well Broken in Shoes
When you get back to your room after a long day exploring Europe’s finest attractions, your feet will thank us! For the ladies, a fashionable pair of ballet flats can take you from day to evening with ease.
4) Passport, Driver’s Licence, Credit Card and Euros.
What if they don’t accept Visa? You won’t have to wash any dishes to pay for lunch if you’re prepared with local currency. Also, if you’re thinking of giving your feet a break and renting a scooter, you’ll probably need both your passport and driver’s license.
5) Clothes Pegs, Toiletries, Medications, Sunglasses, Umbrella and Large Zip Seal Plastic Bags
Some of these items might seem a little strange so let us explain. The clothes pegs will come in handy to hang a little washing up or your swimsuit after a day in the pool. Also, make sure you’ve got enough of your toiletries especially shampoo and sunscreen as they are expensive little items to restock if you run out. Last but not least, keep your toiletries in large zip seal plastic bags while in transit so if they leak it won’t be all over your clean clothes! They are also handy for storing a wet bathing suit in your beach bag so you don’t get everything else nice and soggy.
The Last Word
If you’re still unsure before you start packing, double check the cruise line website or with your Bains Travel expert for more tips and specific dress codes. Bon voyage!
