What to Pack for a European Cruise: The Ultimate Packing List

What to Wear on a European Cruise

A European cruise is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and you want to make sure you look your best. But what should you pack?

The answer depends on a few factors, including the time of year you’re cruising, the ports you’ll be visiting, and your personal style.

In this article, we’ll discuss the different factors to consider when packing for a European cruise, and we’ll give you some specific tips on what to wear for each day of your trip.

So whether you’re planning a springtime getaway to the Mediterranean or a fall cruise to the Baltic Sea, we’ve got you covered.

Read on to learn more!

Clothing Item	When to Wear	Where to Buy
Warm coat	Spring, fall, and winter	Amazon, REI, The North Face
Light jacket	Summer	H&M, Zara, Gap
Sweater	Spring, fall, and winter	Uniqlo, J.Crew, Madewell
Long pants	Spring, fall, and winter	Levi’s, Banana Republic, Old Navy
Shorts	Summer	Abercrombie & Fitch, Hollister, American Eagle
Dress	Special occasions	Macy’s, Nordstrom, Bloomingdale’s
Swimsuit	Summer	Victoria’s Secret, Target, Amazon
Shoes	Depends on the activity	Nike, Adidas, Converse
Hat	Spring, fall, and winter	L.L.Bean, Patagonia, The North Face
Scarf	Spring, fall, and winter	H&M, Zara, Forever 21
Gloves	Fall and winter	L.L.Bean, Patagonia, The North Face
Umbrella	Spring, summer, and fall	Target, Amazon, Walmart

What to Pack for a European Cruise

When packing for a European cruise, it is important to consider the different climates you will be visiting, as well as the activities you plan on doing. Here is a general packing list to get you started:

Clothing

• Lightweight, comfortable layers that can be easily added or removed as needed.
• A waterproof jacket or raincoat for rainy days.
• A warm sweater or fleece for cold weather.
• A swimsuit for swimming in the pool or ocean.
• Casual dresses or skirts for evenings out.
• Comfortable shoes that can be worn for walking, sightseeing, and excursions.
• Dressy shoes for formal dinners.
• A hat or sunglasses for sunny days.

Shoes

• Comfortable walking shoes or sneakers.
• Sandals or flip-flops for warm weather.
• A pair of dress shoes for formal dinners.

Accessories

• A small backpack or day bag for carrying your essentials.
• A travel umbrella.
• A universal power adapter.
• A camera and/or camcorder.
• A swimsuit cover-up.
• A sarong or beach towel.
• A travel journal and pen.

Toiletries

• Toothbrush and toothpaste.
• Shampoo and conditioner.
• Body wash or soap.
• Face wash and moisturizer.
• Sunscreen.
• Insect repellent.
• First-aid kit.
• Any prescription medications you take.

Electronics

• Cell phone charger.
• Laptop charger.
• Camera battery charger.
• Portable charger.
• Headphones or earbuds.
• Kindle or other e-reader.
• Tablet or laptop.

Other items

• Passport and visa (if required).
• Driver’s license (if required).
• Travel insurance.
• Cash in euros (or the currency of the country you are visiting).
• Credit cards.
• A copy of your itinerary.
• A small first-aid kit.
• A travel adapter.
• A universal power adapter.
• A neck pillow.
• A sleep mask.
• Earplugs.

Dressing for Different Climates

When packing for a European cruise, it is important to consider the different climates you will be visiting. Here are some tips for dressing for different climates in Europe:

Northern Europe

Northern Europe is characterized by cool, wet weather. The average temperature in summer is around 15-20 degrees Celsius (59-68 degrees Fahrenheit), and the average temperature in winter is around 0-5 degrees Celsius (32-41 degrees Fahrenheit).

When packing for a cruise to Northern Europe, you will need to pack warm layers, such as sweaters, jackets, and coats. You will also need to pack waterproof clothing, such as raincoats and boots.

Southern Europe

Southern Europe is characterized by warm, sunny weather. The average temperature in summer is around 25-30 degrees Celsius (77-86 degrees Fahrenheit), and the average temperature in winter is around 10-15 degrees Celsius (50-59 degrees Fahrenheit).

When packing for a cruise to Southern Europe, you will need to pack light, summery clothing, such as dresses, skirts, shorts, and T-shirts. You will also need to pack sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat.

Mediterranean Europe

Mediterranean Europe is characterized by mild, sunny weather. The average temperature in summer is around 20-25 degrees Celsius (68-77 degrees Fahrenheit), and the average temperature in winter is around 10-15 degrees Celsius (50-59 degrees Fahrenheit).

When packing for a cruise to Mediterranean Europe, you will need to pack light, summery clothing, such as dresses, skirts, shorts, and T-shirts. You will also need to pack sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat.

Eastern Europe

Eastern Europe is characterized by cold, snowy winters and warm, sunny summers. The average temperature in summer is around 20-25 degrees Celsius (68-77 degrees Fahrenheit), and the average temperature in winter is around -5-5 degrees Celsius (23-41 degrees Fahrenheit).

When packing for a cruise to Eastern Europe, you will need to pack warm layers, such as sweaters, jackets, and coats. You will also need to pack waterproof clothing, such as raincoats and boots.

Western Europe

Western Europe is characterized by mild, temperate weather. The average temperature in summer is around 20-25 degrees Celsius (68-77 degrees Fahrenheit), and the average temperature in winter

3. Dressing for Different Activities

When it comes to dressing for a European cruise, it’s important to consider the different activities you’ll be doing. Here are a few tips for dressing for different activities:

• Shore excursions: When you’re on a shore excursion, you’ll likely be doing a lot of walking and exploring. It’s important to wear comfortable shoes that you can walk in for long periods of time. You should also pack a light jacket or sweater in case the weather turns cool. For women, a sun dress or skirt with a lightweight sweater or jacket is a great option. For men, khakis or cargo shorts with a polo shirt or button-down shirt are a good choice.
• Dinner in the main dining room: The dress code for dinner in the main dining room is usually smart casual. This means that men should wear a collared shirt and slacks, while women should wear a dress or skirt and blouse. You can also dress up a little more if you like. For example, men could wear a suit or sports coat, and women could wear a cocktail dress or pantsuit.
• Dinner in specialty restaurants: The dress code for dinner in specialty restaurants varies from restaurant to restaurant. Some restaurants have a more formal dress code, while others are more relaxed. It’s always best to check the restaurant’s website or call ahead to inquire about the dress code. In general, men should wear a suit or sports coat, and women should wear a dress or skirt and blouse.
• Nightlife: The dress code for nightlife on a cruise ship varies from ship to ship. Some ships have a more formal dress code, while others are more relaxed. It’s always best to check the ship’s dress code policy before you go out. In general, men should wear a collared shirt and slacks, while women should wear a dress or skirt and blouse. You can also dress up a little more if you like. For example, men could wear a suit or sports coat, and women could wear a cocktail dress or pantsuit.
• Formal nights: Most cruise ships have one or two formal nights per week. On formal nights, the dress code is usually black tie for men and evening gowns for women. You can also wear a cocktail dress or pantsuit if you don’t have a formal gown.

4. Tips for Dressing for a European Cruise

Here are a few tips for dressing for a European cruise:

• Be prepared for changes in weather. The weather in Europe can change quickly, so it’s important to pack clothes that you can layer. You should also pack a raincoat or umbrella in case of rain.
• Pack versatile pieces that can be layered. This will allow you to dress for different activities and weather conditions. For example, a skirt or dress can be layered with a sweater or jacket for cooler weather.
• Dress comfortably. You’ll be doing a lot of walking and exploring on your cruise, so it’s important to wear comfortable shoes. You should also pack a pair of sandals or flip-flops for wearing around the ship.
• Don’t forget your camera! You’ll want to capture all of the amazing sights you’ll see on your cruise.

By following these tips, you’ll be sure to dress comfortably and stylishly for your European cruise.

What should I wear on a European cruise?

The answer to this question depends on a number of factors, including the time of year you’re cruising, the ports you’ll be visiting, and your personal style.

• Time of year: The climate in Europe varies widely from one region to another, so it’s important to pack clothes that are appropriate for the time of year you’ll be cruising. In general, you can expect to experience mild weather in the spring and fall, and warm weather in the summer. If you’re cruising in the winter, you’ll need to pack warm clothes for the colder weather.
• Ports of call: The ports you’ll be visiting will also affect what you should wear. If you’ll be visiting major cities, you’ll want to pack clothes that are appropriate for sightseeing and exploring. If you’ll be visiting smaller towns or villages, you may want to pack more casual clothes.
• Personal style: Ultimately, the best way to decide what to wear on a European cruise is to consider your own personal style. If you’re comfortable dressing up, you may want to pack some more formal clothes for evening dinners. If you prefer a more casual look, you can get by with a few pairs of jeans and t-shirts.

Here are some general tips for packing for a European cruise:

• Pack layers. The weather in Europe can change quickly, so it’s important to pack clothes that you can layer. This will allow you to stay comfortable if the temperature changes throughout the day.
• Pack comfortable shoes. You’ll be doing a lot of walking on a cruise, so it’s important to pack comfortable shoes that you can wear for extended periods of time.
• Pack versatile clothes. You’ll want to pack clothes that you can wear for multiple occasions. This will help you save space in your suitcase.
• Don’t forget your swimsuit! Most cruise ships have pools and hot tubs, so you’ll want to pack a swimsuit so you can enjoy the water.

Here is a sample packing list for a European cruise:

• 2-3 pairs of pants
• 5-6 tops
• 1-2 dresses
• 1-2 skirts
• 1-2 swimsuits
• 1-2 cover-ups
• 1-2 pairs of shoes
• 1-2 hats
• 1-2 scarves
• 1-2 sunglasses
• 1-2 bathing suits
• 1-2 beach towels
• 1-2 toiletries bags
• 1-2 travel adapters
• 1-2 first aid kits

Of course, this is just a sample list, and you may need to adjust it depending on your personal needs and preferences. But by following these tips, you can ensure that you’re prepared for anything that comes your way on your European cruise.

What are some specific clothing items that I should pack?

In addition to the general tips listed above, here are some specific clothing items that you may want to pack for your European cruise:

• A lightweight jacket or sweater for chilly weather.
• A pair of comfortable walking shoes.
• A swimsuit and cover-up.
• A hat and sunglasses for sunny days.
• A scarf for cool evenings.
• A small backpack or tote bag for carrying your essentials.
• A travel adapter for using your electronic devices in Europe.
• A first aid kit in case of minor injuries.

What should I avoid wearing on a European cruise?

When packing for a European cruise, there are a few things that you should avoid wearing. These include:

• Clothing that is too revealing or tight-fitting.
• Clothing that is too casual or dirty.
• Clothing that is offensive or culturally insensitive.
• Clothing that is likely to wrinkle or get wet.

It’s also important to be aware of the dress code at the ports you’ll be visiting. Some ports have more formal dress codes than others, so it’s important to dress accordingly.

What are some tips for dressing for different activities on a European cruise?

When you’re on a European cruise, you’ll have the opportunity to participate in a variety of activities, each of which requires different clothing. Here are a few tips for dressing for different activities on a cruise:

• For sightseeing and exploring: You’ll want to dress comfortably and casually for sightseeing and exploring. This means wearing comfortable shoes, loose-fitting clothes, and a hat or sunglasses to protect you from the sun.
• For formal dinners: Most cruise ships have formal dinners at least once or twice a week. For these dinners, you

  there are many factors to consider when packing for a European cruise. The time of year, the ports of call, and your personal style will all play a role in what you pack. By following these tips, you can ensure that you are comfortable and stylish on your next European cruise.

Key Takeaways:

• Pack layers to stay comfortable in a variety of climates.
• Choose versatile pieces that can be dressed up or down.
• Consider the weather and activities at each port of call.
• Don’t forget comfortable shoes for walking.
• Be prepared to dress up for formal nights.

With a little planning, you can create a packing list that will help you have a stylish and comfortable trip on your European cruise.