Going on a 7-day cruise can be exciting, but packing for it can be overwhelming, especially for women who want to look their best while on board. However, with proper planning and a checklist in hand, packing for a week-long cruise can be stress-free. Here’s what you should pack for a 7-day cruise:
Check the Dress Code
Before anything else, it’s essential to check the dress code of the ship you’ll be boarding. Some cruises have formal nights, where you’ll need evening gowns or cocktail dresses and suits or tuxedos for men.
Others have resort casual dress codes that require sundresses, skirts or slacks with blouses or shirts for women and collared shirts with dress pants or khakis for men. Knowing the dress code will help you pack accordingly.
Clothing Essentials
- Swimwear – bring at least two swimsuits in case one takes time to dry
- Sunhat – protect your face from the sun while lounging by the pool
- Sunglasses – bring polarized sunglasses to protect your eyes from harmful UV rays
- Cover-ups – pack light cover-ups like sarongs and kaftans that you can wear over your swimsuits when walking around the ship or going to lunch.
- Formal wear – if there are formal nights on your cruise, pack an evening gown or cocktail dress and shoes that match.
- Smart casual outfits – bring comfortable yet stylish outfits like maxi dresses, jumpsuits, and blouses with skirts or pants.
- Casual wear – comfortable clothing such as shorts, t-shirts, tank tops, sundresses (lightweight), jeans and pants.
- Undergarments – Don’t forget to pack enough underwear based on your needs, and bring at least two bras (one strapless) for different outfit choices.
Footwear
- Comfortable walking shoes – pack comfortable shoes or sneakers for shore excursions and walking around the ship.
- Sandals – bring flip flops or sandals that you can wear by the pool or at the beach.
- Dress shoes – if you’re attending formal events, bring dress shoes that complement your outfit.
- Gym shoes – if you plan to work out in the ship’s gym, pack athletic shoes.
Toiletries and Accessories
- Sunscreen – pack a high SPF sunscreen to protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays.
- Toiletries – bring travel-sized shampoos, conditioners, body washes and lotions. Don’t forget to pack makeup remover wipes and feminine hygiene products.
- Hair tools – Bring a travel-sized hair dryer, curling iron or straightener if necessary.
- Jewelry – Pack a few pieces of jewelry that go well with different outfits.
- Purse or clutch – Bring a small purse or clutch for formal events or nights out.
Conclusion
Packing for a 7-day cruise doesn’t have to be stressful if you plan correctly. Remember to check the dress code of your cruise before packing, and consider bringing comfortable yet stylish clothing along with footwear suitable for different activities on board. Don’t forget your toiletries and accessories like sunscreen, jewelry, hair tools and a small purse to complete your look while on vacation!