What to Wear on Your Cruise: Packing and Dress Codes

If you are a first-time cruiser, you will likely bring at least twice the amount of clothes you really need. Experienced cruisers know what clothes are really necessary, what is optional if it fits into the luggage, and what really can be left behind. And with the lifestyle of a cruise, and the dress codes which are supposed to be implemented at certain times in certain places, it can get quite confusing. And that's not even counting the ports! What is one person supposed to do?

Packing

Really, there are only a few basic things you need to take with you to wear on your cruise:

1 or 2 bathing suits (preferably nylon which dries fast and can be used as walking shorts
a cover up
2 shorts
2 tee shirts
3 sets of casual wear
2 dressier outfits
workout gear
formal wear (the amount would depend on how many formal nights are included)
3 pairs of shoes (1 sneakers, 1 casual, 1 dressy) with rubber or some form of non/slip soles
leggings, which can be dressed up or down
1 sweater or jacket in case one room or area is overly air-conditioned
and pack a hat!

Also, you will probably gain a few pounds during your cruise, so try to get as much as you can with elastic waistbands. Also, wrinkle-free clothes are great if your stateroom does not come with an iron.

Dress Codes

For formal nights, guys get to wear suits or sport jacket and pants or a tuxedo. Ladies get their chance to wear their formal gowns, cocktail dresses, or elegant pants and blouses or suits. Not allowed those nights would be tee shirts, shorts, flip flops, jeans, men's sleeveless shirts, or bathing suits.

For casual nights at supper, the guys are supposed to wear slacks, khakis, jeans, dress shirts, or collared shirts. Ladies wear casual dresses/skirts or pants and blouses, summer dresses, capri pants, dress shorts, or jeans. Again, gym or basketball shorts, flip flops, bathing suits, and sleeveless men's shirts are not allowed.

So, now you know what clothing to pack, and what to wear onboard. Now, all that you have to do is book your cruise at www.kingarthur.myttn.com and let's see where you cruise to!