Pack for a Luxury Cruise Experience, people who just got back from similar sailings are saying things like “I brought five pairs of shoes and wore two” or “forgot my power bank and paid $50 on board for a cheap one.” So yeah. Here’s where I’ve landed after way too many revisions. Probably still not perfect but closer than before.
Documents and Money – Don’t Screw This Up
Passport. Obviously. I’ve got a photo copy in my phone and cloud now because I’m that person. Credit card (two just in case), debit card. About €200 in small bills—some ports still prefer cash for little markets or taxi tips. Phone charger + power bank. European plug adapter (those weird round ones). Meds in original bottles plus a couple extra days. Seasickness patches because even fancy ships rock sometimes. Reusable water bottle—filtered water is everywhere but I like my own.
Pack Daytime Clothes – Nothing Fancy Needed
Three or four light tops—linen shirts, cotton tees, maybe one nice blouse. Shorts or lightweight pants that pack small. A flowy skirt or capris if I feel like it. Walking sandals or comfy sneakers (Italy ports will murder your feet otherwise). Two swimsuits + cover-up or sarong. Pools are low-key so nothing too skimpy. Thin cardigan or shawl—inside air-con is brutal. Hat, polarized sunglasses, maybe a baseball cap for bad hair days.
Evening Clothes – Elegant Casual Is Confusing
Most nights “elegant casual” or “resort casual.” No shorts/flip-flops/ripped jeans in dining after six. I’m bringing one black dress that can look different with jewelry or scarf. Slacks + pretty top as backup. For him—button-down shirts, chinos or dress pants, one blazer. One optional gala night—cocktail dress or suit. No one’s judging if you skip full tux/gown. Small evening bag, simple earrings or watch, scarf that works as wrap.
Pack Shoes – Four Pairs or I’m Done
Day sandals/walkers. Evening low heels or nice flats (decks slippery). Loafers or dress shoes for him. Flip-flops only pool/cabin. That’s the hard limit.
Layers & Weather Things
Packable rain jacket—Med showers come out of nowhere. Wide hat or cap. Scarf/pashmina for cool evenings or plane. Binoculars? Maybe. I never use mine but people swear by them for scenery.
Toiletries Pack – Ships Spoil You
Travel sizes. Silversea has nice shampoo/conditioner/lotion/soap (L’Occitane level). Hairbrush. Minimal makeup—day natural, night a little more. Razor, tweezers, nail clippers (the stuff you always forget). No full bottles.
Extras That Actually Get Used
Kindle or book—quiet lounges are perfect. Laundry bag (suites often get free or cheap laundry). Earplugs for engine hum. Packing cubes—rolling clothes saves space. Extra tote for port souvenirs (olive oil, scarves, dumb keychains).
What I’m Cutting Out
Extra formal outfits—one set is enough. More than four shoes. Heavy books (library exists). Full toiletries. Anything beach-only for dinner.
Tips I Keep Seeing (And Actually Believe Now)
Look at the ship app for dress code schedule—mostly elegant casual, maybe one or two fancier nights. Neutrals/black mix everything. Layers for hot days/cold indoors. Leave suitcase room because you’ll buy stuff. Use ship laundry if you can—pack lighter.
