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>> What to Wear on a River Cruise in Europe (+ Packing List!)

What to Wear on a River Cruise in Europe (+ Packing List!)

Wondering what to pack for a river cruise? We’ll show you exactly what to wear on a river cruise in Europe with some great ideas on practical River cruise outfits. We’ve also included some clothing tips for Rhine river cruise travel across the seasons.

In addition to our guide on how to dress for a river cruise we’ve included some tips on how to pack for a European river cruise . Assuming you’re coming from the US, Canada, Australia or New Zealand and will be traveling a long way to Europe, you may want to travel a bit before or after your river cruise. Our tips for packing for river cruise trips will help you pack light for travel in the rest of Europe.

We’ve used the Viking river cruise dress code as a guide on what to wear on a Rhine river cruise but there are of course other companies that do European river cruises. For simplicity reasons we’re calling this our Viking river cruise packing list but you can of course use is it as a guide on what to wear on a river cruise in Europe on other cruise lines too.

1.1 Types of European River Cruise Outfits
1.2 Dressing for the Season
2 Tips on How to Pack for a River Cruise
3.1 River Cruise Clothes
3.2 Footwear
3.3 River Cruise Essentials
3.4 Toiletries
3.5 Electronics
4 Questions on what to pack for river cruise in Europe?

What to Wear on a River Cruise in Europe

River cruises are more casual than ocean cruises. They’re more about experiencing the culture and sights of Europe and less about having a fun vacation on a big ship (like you would on a Caribbean cruise). When working out how to dress for a European river cruise you’ll need to think about comfort, packability, layering and European culture.

You’ll spend your days sightseeing around the streets of Europe so comfortable but relatively smart but casual clothes are ideal. Comfortable walking shoes are a must! Many of the excursions on European river cruises are walking tours. You’ll also likely visit churches and culturally significant sights that may require covered shoulders and knee length clothes. Pack a light scarf in summer to throw over your shoulders. Avoid short shorts & skirts and opt for capri pants & midi skirts instead.

Make sure you choose items that pack well. You won’t have an iron in your cabin so you’ll need to pack clothes with wrinkle resistant fabrics. A small travel-sized bottle of Downy Wrinkle Release can help with this too. It also gives clothes a quick refresh allowing you to wear items more than once.

Types of European River Cruise Outfits

Casual clothes for cruising – Comfortable but smart casual clothing is the go when cruising in Europe. A t-shirt or sleeveless vest with jeans, capris or a skirt is enough.
Comfortable shoes – Comfortable shoes are a must for European travel.
Non-formal evening wear – There often isn’t time or a need to change for dinner on a river cruise so don’t feel you have to. We usually prefer to change for dinner, even if that means a quick freshen up and changing from a t-shirt into a nicer top. Lightweight, chiffon evening tops are great to pack for evenings on cruises. Wear them over jeans or capris. They don’t take up much space but add a little oopmh to your outfit.
Formal evening wear – Most European river cruises do not have a formal night. If they do, you’ll find the dress code for river cruises isn’t as strict as for ocean cruises. There’s no need to go over the top on formal night on river cruises in Europe. You can wear black pants and dressier top or a simple black dress and pashmina. No need to bring heels, your sandals will do fine. Pop on a statement necklace and you’re good to go. Men can pack a sport coat if they like but a long sleeved shirt and pants will do.

Dressing for the Season

If you’re traveling outside the peak of summer weather can be quite changeable so clothes you can layer are ideal. Check the long range weather forecast on a site like Accuweather when planning out what to wear on a Viking river cruise to help.

We have noted different quantities for items based on season in our packing list below but here is a quick guide on what to wear on a river cruise in Winter, Spring, Summer and Fall:

River Cruising in Summer – Summer river cruise attire is pretty easy. Think light summer dresses, capris & vest tops, skirts and blouses. Make sure you pack at least one cardigan in case of chilly nights or the odd cooler day.
River Cruising in Spring – Spring in Europe can bring nice weather but it can also be changeable. Layering is key. Bring a couple of cardigans for over dresses and tees. Add in an extra pair of jeans. A light jacket like a denim jacket or utility jacket will also prove useful. April is notoriously wet in Europe so a waterproof jacket would be a good idea.
River Cruising in Fall – When packing for river cruise in Europe in the Fall, add in a few warmer layers like long sleeved tees, cardigans, leggings. A light waterproof layer like this is a must. In late Fall, a packable lightweight down jacket like this is also very useful to have in case of cold days. You’ll also want a pair of closed toe shoes like a comfortable ankle boot for walking in wet weather.
River Cruising in Winter – For winter river cruises in Europe, you’ll need a few more warmer layers, hat, gloves, scarf and ankle boots. Add in a packable down jacket and waterproof parka. Leave out the summer dresses and instead pack a few more jeans and jumpers. Merino layers like this are useful for providing extra warmth in cold weather.

Tips on How to Pack for a River Cruise

Know you know what to wear on a scenic river cruise, let’s go over how to pack for a river cruise. When packing for a European river cruise, you need to account for how many travel days you have before and after your cruise, how long your trip to Europe is and how you’ll be getting around once in Europe pre and post-cruise.

Here are a few tips for packing for a river cruise:

Pack light for Europe – If you pack light and smart then you’ll be able to fit this packing list into a carry on sized suitcase. Travel with just a carry on sized suitcase if you can manage.
Pick a color scheme – It makes it easier to mix & match outfits if you stick to a color scheme. Choose a few base neutrals like black, tan, navy & white for your pants, capris, skirts and outerwear. Add in a pop of co-ordinating color or print with your tops, tees, blouses and dresses. It makes it so much easier to dress! when all your tops go with all your bottom
Go for carry on sized luggage – Even if you plan on checking your bag for convenience on travel days, we still recommend using a small cabin sized suitcase for your European river cruise. It’s so much easier to travel in Europe with a smaller suitcase! Space is limited in Europe and a smaller bag is easier for travel on trains in Europe, impossibly small hotel elevators, tiny hotel rooms and the ship’s cabin.
Pack with packing cubes – Using packing cubes helps you organize your luggage efficiently, makes it easier to pack & unpack and helps you pack less. Use a large packing cubes for jeans, shorts & outwear, a medium sized packing cube for tops and a small packing cube for underwear. You can get packing cubes here on Amazon.
Get a hanging toiletry bag – A hanging toiletry bag is so much easier for cruising. This one by eBags is ideal as it packs flat and is easy to lay across the top of your suitcase contents.
Use a lightweight backpack or cross body travel bag for excursions – A lightweight backpack like this is great for excursion days. You can fold it up and pack it away in your luggage when not in use. For city excursions in Europe, a cross body bag works very well. Travel cross body bags like this with built in security to prevent pickpocketing and bag slashing are ideal. You can also get small backpacks like this with built in antitheft technology too.

Viking River Cruise Packing List

Here’s a complete list of what to pack for a Viking river cruise. You can download and print this river cruise packing list in PDF form here. We recommend printing and laying out all your items for packing for European river cruise so you can check them off as you go.

River Cruise Clothes

Tees and tops for day x 5-7 – T-shirts, sleeveless vests, blouses for women and t-shirts, polos and shirts for men. Pack a mix of short and long sleeved depending on season.
Evening tops x 3-4
Cardigan or sweater – 1 for Summer travel, 2 in Spring and 3-4 for Fall/Winter travel
Jacket – A denim jacket or utility jacket for Spring/Fall/Winter
Shorts or capri pants – 1 for women, 2 for men
Jeans – 1 for Summer, 2 for Spring/Fall/Winter
Khakis / chinos – For men
Skirts x 1-2 – Midi length are ideal for Europe. Or coluttes are also great!
Sundress / casual dress x 2 – Linen or light cotton in summer and a tunic-style with leggings in winter make great river cruise dresses.
Leggings for women / Jogger for men – Great for the plane!
Dress or nice top & black pants / sport coat & shirt for men for formal night (optional) – Most European river cruises don’t have a formal night!
Workout clothes (optional) – Most ships do not have a gym however
Swimsuit – For onboard hot tubs or thermal baths on excursions in paces like Budapest
Waterproof parka
Packable down jacket (in Fall/Winter)
Hat and gloves (in Fall/Winter)
Pashmina – Great for the plane or cooler evenings
Light scarf (in Spring/Summer)
Warm scarf (in Fall/Winter)
Sleepwear x 2
Underwear x 10
Bras x 3 – 1 nude, 1 white and 1 black works great for travel!
Socks x 5-7
Statement jewelry x 1-2 – Don’t bring any expensive jewelry!
Sneakers – Comfortable walking shoes are essential for sightseeing in Europe. You’ll be walking a lot and often on cobblestones. We LOVE Sketchers Go Walk sneakers for travel. They’re lightweight and super comfortable!
Sandals (in Spring/Summer) – Something you can wear in the evening or around the ship. Aerosoles sandals (like these) are very comfortable for walking. As are Vionic sandals (like these) .
Mules or flats (in Spring/Fall/Winter) – Something you can wear in the evening or around the ship. Vionic do great, comfortable flats (like these) .
Ankle boots (in Fall/Winter) – Good for walking in wetter, cooler weather. Lucky Brand Basel boots (like these) are a great choice.
Loafer or dressier shoes for men – Something you can wear in the evening or around the ship. Here’s a nice Vionic Men’s loafer.
Golf shoes (if required for your excursions)

River Cruise Essentials

Add these cruise and travel essentials to your packing list for river cruise in Europe!

Travel documents printed
Travel document wallet
Downy wrinkle release spray
Disinfectant spray / wipes – Spray or wipe down your cabin’s surfaces on arrival and use on your tray table & touch screen on the plane!
Hand sanitizer
Tide-to-go pen – For removing any stains on clothing
Travel laundry sheets – For handwashing any items you may want to re-wear
Tide pods – Put a couple of Tide pods in a Ziploc bag to use at the onboard as there is a laundry on Viking river cruise ships (or you can use a couple of the travel laundry sheets mentioned above!)
Travel umbrella
Compression socks for the long flight to Europe
Refillable water bottle
Travel coffee mug
Highlighter – For your daily cruise schedule

Viking ships with soap, shampoo, conditioner and body lotion so you don’t need to pack these. Choose travel size versions of your toiletries to help you pack light. Decant larger items into GoToobs or GoTubs if necessary.

Toothpaste (travel size)
Facial moisturiser / skin care
Make up – Decant larger items into GoTubs or ask for sample sizes at Sephora
Make up remover wipes
Lip balm – Especially in winter
Hand cream – Plane travel, using hand sanitizer and winter weather can dry the skin
Sunscreen (travel size & suitable for face)
Shaving cream (travel size)
Pain relief
Cold medicine
Allergy medicine
Motion sickness medicine
Small first aid kit
Any medication you require
Contacts & solution if you require

Electronics

Remember to check all your electronics are dual voltage before traveling to Europe. Most electronics generally are but watch out for things like your hair styling tools!

All chargers
European plug adapter – Your stateroom may have universal plugs but an adapter is still useful for travel before and after your cruise
Powerstrip without surge protector for cruise ships
European data sim or mobile wifi device
Powerbank – For charging on the go
Travel curling iron or travel hair straightener – Make sure it is dual voltage! (No need to bring a hair dryer as they have them on the ship.)

Questions on what to pack for river cruise in Europe?

If you have questions about what to wear on European river cruise or our river cruise tips for packing, leave a comment below and we’ll be happy to help. You can also join our Cruise Packing Tips Group on Facebook to ask questions and share your own tips for packing for cruises. We’d love to hear your tips and questions on what to pack for a European river cruise.

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River cruise packing list: What to pack when traveling by riverboat

You booked your river cruise, and the departure date approaches. Now you're panicking about what to pack.

You want to pack light, given you won't have much space in your cabin to store bulky suitcases. However, you also want to be prepared with the right clothing and gear for changeable weather on the river, visits to religious sites and the many walking and cycling tours you plan to do in port. How will you fit everything in a carry-on?

It seems like a lot, but there's no need to feel overwhelmed about packing for a river cruise. I've been on more than 125 cruises, including many river sailings.

Below are my top packing tips and a river cruise packing list for a river cruise in Europe, the United States, Asia or Africa. Follow these tips to take the stress out of your pre-trip prep.

For cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

What to pack on a river cruise

The first thing to understand is that where you cruise will dictate what you pack. The Nile River in July will be quite different than the Rhine in November, and you'll need different clothing and gear.

However, river cruises are often during warmer times of the year in places that may not see ice and snow. Typically, heavy outwear isn't needed. (At least not much of it — I was on a Tennessee River cruise in early November, and it snowed for several hours one day!)

Here's what to pack to get maximum use out of minimal luggage.

Related: Booking your first river cruise? Here's what you need to know.

Lightweight layers

The key to river cruise packing is layering.

On some rivers in Asia and Africa, such as Egypt's Nile River, it can get extremely hot during the day — we're talking 90-plus degrees Fahrenheit — but cool in the evenings.

Late-summer weather in Europe can also change frequently. During a river cruise in the Netherlands in early September, some days were hot and others rainy and chilly. For all these destinations, you'll want to be able to peel layers off and put them on again.

Layers are also convenient should you need to cover up your shoulders and legs to enter religious buildings like temples, monasteries and cathedrals.

Light scarves are useful for covering shoulders in religious places and covering your head and face when it's hot or dusty. Colorful scarves can also be a great accent piece for a dinner outfit on board.

For the best layering, think about packing several thin long- and short-sleeved T-shirts, as well as a jacket, such as an outdoorsy zip-up jacket or vest from Patagonia. I often bring a dark denim jacket for layering. It's warm and looks stylish when worn over T-shirts and accented with scarves.

Related: Cruise packing list: The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise

Casual clothes for day and night

River cruises involve full days of touring on land, so casual and comfortable clothing is key.

Cargo pants or shorts are a great idea on a river cruise, especially for the popular cycling and walking excursions. You can stash your phone, a thin wallet and even sunscreen or bug spray in the large pockets, leaving your hands free to navigate a bicycle or walking sticks.

It may sound counterintuitive, but for very hot places in Southeast Asia, India, Egypt, Amazon region and Europe in August, it's best to wear long sleeves when touring, even in the hottest summer months. This will protect you from sunburn.

Prepare for various temperatures and pack lightweight breathable fabrics. I prefer thin cotton tops, while my husband likes the moisture-wicking shirts from Arcteryx and similar brands. Both kinds take up little suitcase space and dry quickly when hand-washed.

Some of the newer riverboats from lines like AmaWaterways and Scenic have small pools on deck, so pack a swimsuit if you'd like to take a dip.

Related: Best river cruise lines around the world

When it comes to dining, river cruises are generally casual. You can even have dinner wearing what you wore on the afternoon's excursions — within reason. I wouldn't wear cargo shorts to dinner, but I'd wear jeans.

That said, especially on Europe river cruises, most folks like to wear a nicer shirt or top for dinner layered with a nice scarf, vest or a thin easy-to-fold jacket. Passengers on higher-end river cruise lines in Europe (such as Uniworld and AmaWaterways) tend to dress up in the evenings more than guests on more affordable cruises.

No river cruise line will expect you to bring suit jackets or sparkly clothes. However, I've seen women in cocktail dresses and men in sport coats on Europe and Mississippi river cruises.

Related: What to wear on a cruise: Cruise attire and cruise line dress codes

Bring a pair of sturdy sneakers or light trekking shoes for excursions that may require long city walks in Europe and the U.S. or hiking on dirt roads or rocky paths in more rural areas in India, Laos, Cambodia and the Amazon. Alpine-style hiking boots are not necessary.

For Southeast Asia and India river cruises, bring a comfortable slip-on shoe, like a pair of Crocs, that are easy to get off and on because you'll have to remove shoes before going into temples. You're usually allowed to wear socks, so bring multiple lightweight ankle or no-show socks you can easily wash in your cabin sink when they get dusty from walking on dirt roads.

Ideally, bring a third pair of shoes to wear inside your cabin and around the boat's interior, such as sandals, boat shoes, flats or whatever casual lightweight shoe you prefer. I never travel without my hot pink Birkenstocks; they're cute and versatile, without or with socks.

Accessories and travel gear

Clothing isn't the only thing you'll need to pack for your river cruise. The No.1 accessory you should pack is a lightweight backpack, fanny pack or sling bag that is easy to carry on walking or biking tours or on more active treks.

Riverboats that offer the use of bicycles should provide helmets, but the options may not always fit the way you like. If you plan on cycling a lot (we cycled daily, sometimes twice a day on a recent AmaWaterways Netherlands and Belgium river cruise), consider bringing your own. The helmet may take up valuable real estate in your luggage, but it's a must if you're fussy about what you put on your head.

I like to wear a thin baseball cap under the helmets I borrow from cruise lines. The visor of the cap keeps the sun or rain away from your eyes. Also, if you're uncomfortable wearing a previously-worn helmet, a ballcap can be a barrier to keep you from touching the hat directly. You can also tie a bandana on your head before putting on the borrowed helmet.

Ask your cruise line if it gifts passengers a reusable aluminum-style water bottle to fill up on board and use during shore excursions. If yours doesn't, bring your own lightweight refillable water bottle as an eco-friendly practice to cut down on single-use plastic waste.

Related: 20 must-have cruise items — including a roll of duct tape

If river cruising in Southeast Asia, India, South America or Africa, bring a small bag of your preferred medicines because you might not find the brands or names you're used to in port. Also, bring your pain reliever of choice, and anti-diarrhea medicine, just in case.

Also, carry a small container of insect repellent, for excursions and your room, on cruises in tropical places where mosquitos and other bugs are prevalent.

Since evening entertainment on a river cruise is minimal — typically a bit of music after dinner or nothing at all — consider packing your own evening entertainment.

Bring books, an e-reader or a tablet, but make sure to download books and movies to your device before your trip. Wi-Fi can be weak on riverboats anywhere in the world, so you may not have a signal to read the newspaper in real-time or stream the latest episode of your favorite show.

Tips for river cruise packing

River cruise boat cabins are often on the small side compared to cabins on big cruise ships, so you don't want to over-pack.

Riverboat cabins are also not as uniform as those on ocean-going ships. European fleets may be more similar, but lines in North America and Asia can have quirky, one-of-a-kind ships. Don't assume you'll have as much room on one line as you did on another.

Riverboats may not provide much (or any) space under the beds for bulky suitcases, and closets (if there are any) are compact, so small suitcases or soft duffels are ideal.

There are exceptions, such as the high-end riverboats in Europe from lines like Uniworld and AmaWaterways; larger riverboats like the 417-passenger American Queen on the Mississippi River; and luxury lines like Aqua Expeditions cruising in Asia and the Amazon. These ships offer more storage space in generally larger cabins.

Related: Cruise ship packing mistakes you want to avoid at all costs

Many riverboats also don't include self-service laundry rooms (though some deluxe Europe riverboats will). Some don't have laundry service either. If you want to pack light, bring undergarments and layering tops that dry quickly, so you can wash in the bathroom sink and hang them to dry.

River cruise packing list

With all this in mind, here is a suggested packing list for your river cruise vacation:

Multiple lightweight tops and T-shirts, including long-sleeved versions for sun protection.
Bottoms, such as leggings, lightweight cargo pants, jeans, khakis, slacks and skirts.
Evening wear like casual dresses, slacks and nice shirts.
Multiple pairs of lightweight underwear and socks.
A lightweight cotton scarf or sarong.
A lightweight but warm jacket, cardigan and/or thin fleece for chilly mornings or evenings.
Sturdy shoes, such as sneakers or simple hiking shoes.
A comfortable slip-on shoe for visiting religious sites or for evenings on board.
Light backpack or fanny pack for excursions.
Water-proof zip-top or small bag for your phone and camera for protection in rainy weather and when aboard small launches used for excursions.
Local and U.S. currency in small bills for purchasing drinks, snacks and souvenirs and for tipping local guides.
Reading materials (books and e-readers) and/or a tablet.
Sunscreen and bug spray.
Sunglasses.
Lightweight compact umbrella for both rain and sun protection. (Many river cruise lines provide umbrellas, but they're often the large non-folding kind that aren't convenient to carry around all day.)
Prescriptions and basic medicines.
Chargers for your electronics, plus a portable charger to ensure your phone is always juiced up on long excursions.
Multi-prong adaptors so you can use both the North American 100- to 120-volt and European 220- to 240-volt outlets on the river cruise boat. (The newest luxury riverboats may have standard USB charging outlets in the lamps on the bedside tables.)

Bottom line

The key to river cruise packing boils down to two important themes.

First, don't over-pack or bring giant suitcases that won't fit in your cabin.

Second, dress for success with lots of lightweight layers. Understand the climate and the activities you'll experience in your river cruise destination, and you have a recipe for the perfect packing job.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

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The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

Women’s Capsule Wardrobe for a River Cruise Vacation

Things to Consider

Your clothing choices will depend on your ports of call and the likely weather conditions.
For hotter climes opt for shorts, skirts and short-sleeved shirts in light natural fabrics.
When cruising in cooler destinations you'll prefer trousers, long-sleeved shirts and jackets in thicker weights.
Clever layering is the best way to cope with changeable weather conditions – e.g. wear a jacket over a fleece, over a t-shirt, over an undershirt.
Consider the activities you plan to do off ship – there may be lots of included excursions. Will you need particular clothing or footwear?
Check the evening dress codes. River cruises tend not to have formally enforced codes, but there may be opportunities both on and off ship to dress up if you choose, e.g. a Captain's Gala Dinner or night out at a concert.
The amount of food you can eat on a cruise is all part of the appeal; we recommend you pack clothes with comfortable waistbands!
Pick a simple colour scheme of neutrals plus one or two statement shades. Make sure all your clothes co-ordinate so they can be mixed and matched.
Remember you will need an outfit to travel in! Wear your bulkiest clothes and shoes where possible.
Download our complete packing list below for all quantities and a checklist of items.
Also see our River Cruise Capsule Wardrobe for Men

What to pack for a River Cruise

Casual Tops

Pack simple tops in your favourite colours that will match your trousers, shorts and skirt. Team with a scarf or necklace on a couple of evenings, then wear by day for sightseeing. Depending on the climate choose from long or short-sleeved, sleeveless, or a mixture. We really like bamboo fabrics.

Suggested buy : Texere Hypoallergenic Bamboo Fiber Tee by Amazon

Evening Top

Pick a luxurious top for evening wear that goes well with your skirt and smart-casual trousers. Add sandals or heels and you're good to go!

Suggested buy : Lush Roll Tab Sleeve Woven Shirt by Nordstrom

Fleece or Light Sweater

Even in hot weather the breezes can make it feel cool when sailing, whilst inside the air-con can also be chilly. A fleece is light, cosy and packs well – or opt for a smarter sweater if that's more your style.

Suggested buy : The North Face Womens Glacier 1/4 Zip by Amazon

Smart Cardigan or Jacket

A smart cardigan or light jacket will dress up your outfit for evening, and it adds that extra something round your shoulders if the air-con gets too breezy. Choose a colour to match or complement your tops and dress.

Suggested buy : Kate Spade 'Somerset' Cardigan by Nordstrom

Casual Trousers or Shorts

These should be practical for days out. Consider the type of activities you will do – are they city-based or more rural/active? Choose fabrics that dry quickly in case of rain. Styles with detachable legs are a good option for varied temperatures. You might opt for shorts instead for hotter climes, but trousers are good protection against sun and insects.

Suggested buy : Royal Robbins Zip N' Go Pant by Amazon

Smart-Casual Trousers

Choose a pair that are comfy for day wear (team with a casual top and walking shoes), but can also be dressed up for dinner by switching to heels, your evening top and jewellery. Smart jeans in dark denim would work well, although you may prefer something lighter in hot weather.

Suggested buy : NYDJ Straight Leg Denim by Amazon

Skirt or Tailored Shorts

These can also be worn for lazy days out with a simple top and sandals, then add your smart cardigan and scarf for the evenings.

Suggested buy : Eileen Fisher Linen Drawstring Skirt by Nordstrom

Ideally choose something that can be dressed up or down by changing your shoes and adding accessories – almost any dress looks smart worn with heels and a scarf. These Karina dresses are very flattering and they pack brilliantly – no ironing ever needed!

Suggested buy : Audrey Dress by Karina Dresses

Some statement jewellery can really set off an outfit and takes up very little room in your case. Costume jewellery works just fine, and it's often better to leave your valuables at home.

Suggested buy : Multi Row Statement Necklace by Nordstrom

Pashmina or Scarf

A ‘must take' item for any holiday as they are just so versatile: cover your shoulders at religious sites; dress up any outfit for evening; put round you if there's a chill (or air-con); use as a sarong over your swimwear.

Suggested Buy : Sarongs & Scarves on Amazon

Walking Shoes or Trainers

If you plan to do lots of walking on shore you'll need some active shoes. Closed-toe are best on dusty roads, and if you're heading off the beaten track do make sure you have something sturdy and supportive that are suited to the terrain.

We love : Gravity Sneakers by Hotter

Deck Shoes or Sandals

Take some non-slip comfy flats for daytime on deck and casual evenings. If they have a bit of sparkle you can even wear them on formal nights too if your feet need a little more comfort.

We love : Play II Sandals by Hotter

Smart Heels

Pack one stylish pair for a touch of glamour. In warm weather your feet may swell too, so make sure they're comfy if you want to dance the night away. We love Hotter shoes which are really lightweight and come in gorgeous colours.

Check out : Pruce Ankle Strap Heels by Nordstrom

Essential for sun protection in hot weather or to keep out the cold and wet in cooler regions. It can be breezy on board, so choose a style that stays on securely – it's useful for keeping your hair under control too.

Suggested Buy : Packable Sun Hat on Amazon

It's extremely bright when the sun's out as the rays reflect off the water. If you want to admire the views then sunglasses are essential.

Suggested buy : Ray-Ban Original Wayfarer by Amazon

Good sunscreen is essential in hotter climes, and don't get caught out on cloudy days either – you can still get burnt. Remember that water will reflect the sun's rays too. Choose a product with a high SPF (protects from UVB rays) and also look for the star or PA rating which indicates protection from UVA.

Suggested buy : SPF 30 PA+++ Water Resistant Sunscreen by Murad

Packaway Jacket

A light packaway raincoat is a good idea to carry with you on day trips – it's ideal in case the weather changes quickly or you experience a sudden downpour. You can layer up underneath for warmth if necessary, or opt for a more substantial jacket in cooler climes.

Suggested buy : Charles River New Englander Rain Jacket by Amazon

Essential for lazy days of sun-bathing, or perhaps you prefer pampering in the spa.

Suggested buy : Speedo Shirred Tank One-Piece by Amazon

You'll need a lightweight bag for all your sightseeing essentials. Our packaway day sack folds up into itself and fits easily in your suitcase when not in use. It's surprisingly roomy, showerproof and light to carry – even in hot weather.

Suggested Buy : Fold Away Day Sack on Amazon

What to Wear on a River Cruise in Europe

Packing for a river cruise can be difficult, especially if it’s your first time. For my first European river cruise I found it particularly tricky to decipher the dress code, so I’ve created this guide to help you decide what to wear on a river cruise in Europe .

River Cruise Dress Code

The key thing to know is that t he dress code for river cruises is far more relaxed than ocean cruises. This is the main difference and I found it quite refreshing.

As an example, let’s take a look at the official dress code guidance from AmaWaterways:

Comfortable “Country Club Casual” is the recommended attire for daytime, and to pack something a little dressier for the Captain’s night/Farewell Dinner – similar to how one would dress to dine at a 5-star restaurant. Comfortable shoes are recommended for excursions and workout clothing if you plan to take part in any wellness activities, active tours or use the onboard gym. Depending on the time of year, clothing that can be layered is highly recommended.

What is Country Club Casual?

Country Club Casual is lightweight clothing – think cotton and linen . Men can wear casual open collared shirts, polo shirts and smart t-shirts. Women can wear casual tops, blouses and summer dresses. Colours are more likely to be lighter although this also depends on the weather.

Other river cruise company dress codes:

Avalon Waterways
Emerald Cruises
Tui River Cruises
Viking River Cruises

In general, I found that the dress code for a river cruise in Europe suited the laid back atmosphere. There is no need to pack dinner jackets and evening gowns for a river cruise, which also helps with your luggage allowance.

What to Wear on a River Cruise in Europe – Day Time

During the day, you can wear comfortable clothing. You are likely to see people wearing denim but more likely chinos.

what people wear on a river cruise in europe

Activewear such as sports leggings, t-shirts, sweatshirts and baseball caps are also acceptable for day wear, especially if you are planning to take part in any activities or use the onboard fitness centre.

During the day, smart shorts are acceptable, especially in warm weather during the summer months.

Casual shoes such as loafers, boat shoes or sandals are popular but you will probably see very few people wearing flip flops (unless they are visiting the pool or hot tubs).

Layers are sometimes a good option, especially because Europe is known for its changeable weather. You can remove layers if you get too warm but can easily pop them back on if it becomes chilly.

A lightweight sweater or cardigan will come in handy and for a winter river cruise during colder months, layers and thicker jumpers are essential.

If you’re planning a Christmas Markets river cruise, the conditions may be snowy so hats, gloves, scarves and a warm coat are needed . The last thing you want to do is suffer from the cold during day trips or day excursions.

What to Wear on a River Cruise in Europe – Shore Excursions

River cruising has a heavy focus on the destinations and your cruise itinerary will not have any ‘sea days’ as such. You may even visit two destination in one day so you will be on and off the ship a lot.

Your river cruise will likely offer day excursions included in the cruise fare and you can choose to do an array of things, the most common being walking tours.

There is an element of walking involved in most river cruise excursions and therefore comfortable walking shoes are necessary. Try to avoid wearing new shoes you haven’t worn in. High heels are definitely not recommended, especially in small towns that have cobblestone streets. Ballet flats would also be a good option.

On my Danube river cruise , I wore trainers or comfortable sandals for walking tours, which meant I could walk around and keep cool. I took a small cross-over bag to put the essentials in e.g. phone, purse, sun cream, credit cards and extra memory cards.

Some excursions may visit religious sites or places of worship so it’s important to be mindful of what you wear. You may need to cover your shoulders and knees . A scarf or pashmina for women could be a good option to ensure you are respectful in these circumstances.

For more serious walking excursions, you may want to pack some walking shoes or boots . Some river cruise lines offers active excursions and many river cruise ships have a fleet of bikes. Trainers/tennis shoes are most appropriate for these excursions.

A small backpack is useful for excursions to carry small items such as: a water bottle, insect repellent, sun hat, camera and personal items. You may also wish to pack a lightweight, waterproof coat in case of wet weather.

Most river ships will provide umbrellas so this isn’t something you’ll need to pack.

What to Wear on a River Cruise – Evening

Evenings on a river cruise are spent in the dining room and the ship’s bars and lounges. As a rule, fellow passengers will wear smart casual attire .

At dinner, men generally wear an open collared shirt with perhaps a blazer/sports coat. Ties and bow ties aren’t necessary and there is definitely no need to pack a suit. The type of formal wear you may be familiar with on a ocean cruise is definitely not required.

what to wear on a river cruise in Europe for men in the evening

Formal nights are generally known as gala nights or captain’s dinner nights. During these evenings (typically only once a cruise) men can still wear open-neck shirts. Business casual wear , such as trousers and a shirt, is as formal as it will be.

Women don’t need to wear an evening gown on a river cruise. On most evenings, a casual dress, skirt, top, blouse and trousers are perfectly acceptable evening wear .

On the gala night or farewell dinner, you may chose to wear a cocktail dress but it’s certainly not necessary. Smart trousers with dress shoes are also an option.

Costume jewellery can be subtle, I think above all a ‘less is more’ approach should be taken.

Outfits shouldn’t be too revealing. You can be comfortable in l oose-fitting or relaxed fitting clothes . This is also good news for taking full advantage of the delicious food on river cruises, as your clothes will still fit at the end of your cruise!

Common Questions about What to Wear on a River Cruise in Europe

Is there a laundry on river cruise ships.

Most river cruise ships have an onboard laundry service or small self-service laundries. These can be used at an extra cost. Washing powder/detergent is usually provided.

Do river cruises have hair dryers?

Yes, there’s no need to pack your own hair dryer as river cruise staterooms will have a hair dryer that you can use.

Depending on the cruise line, you may want to pack powers strips as plug sockets may be limited. Not all river ships, especially the older ones, will have USB ports for electrical devices so pack a USB charging plug too.

What size luggage should you take on a river cruise?

You will most likely need to fly to join your river cruise in Europe and so you should check your luggage allowance for the flight.

Typically you will have a large suitcase and a carry-on bag. You should pack important things like medicine and travel documents in your carry-on bag in case your main luggage is lost or delayed at the airport.

River cruise cabins generally have limited storage space and therefore, keep this in mind when packing.

Can you wear jeans on a river cruise?

You can wear jeans on a river cruise but it’s best to avoid wearing any with holes or rips. Smart denim is even fine to wear for the dining room during the evenings.

In the colder months, you will see most people wearing jeans during the day for excursions and around the ship.

What should I pack for a summer river cruise in Europe?

Casual tops
Lightweight jumper/cardigan
Polo shirts for men
Shorts/capri pants/cropped trousers
Summer dresses
Jeans/chinos
Lightweight jacket
Waterproof jacket
knee length skirts or culottes
Activewear for exercising
One dress for gala/farewell dinner
Smart collared shirt for men
Loafers/boat shoes for men
Walking shoes/boots (if required)
Smart trousers
Light scarf/pashmina
Cross-over bag

What should I pack for a winter river cruise in Europe?

Warm jumpers/cardigans/fleeces
Warm jacket
Swimsuit (if there is an indoor spa)
Thick socks
Muff for neck/face
Warm headband to cover ears

Laura is a UK cruise blogger based in Cornwall, UK. She founded Cruise Lifestyle in 2016 to share useful advice about cruising, destinations and food. Last port visited: Bridgetown, Barbados Next port of call: unknown, but she can’t wait for cruising to resume safely!

Find me on: Twitter

What To Wear On A European River Cruise – Packing List

Most of our travel tends to focus on city breaks, and it is often easier for us to figure out how to pack. We’ve been doing it for decades. When it comes to what to wear on a European river cruise, though, it takes a lot more thought and planning. We share our river cruise packing list tips and tricks.

*This post contains compensated links. Find more info in my DISCLAIMER . As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

What To Pack For A European River Cruise

In this cruise packing guide, we share our European river cruise packing tips. This includes cruise essentials and things to consider when traveling to Europe – particularly for Americans.

Part of this advice includes what not to bring to Europe as well. Included are tips on cruise clothing and outfits.

I am not a fashionista, that is for sure. I pack for a mix of function and fashion while always trying to pack light. I share tips on how to pack light for Europe too!

As much as we’ve only been on two river cruises in Europe, we live in Spain and have been traveling to Europe for two decades.

We know how to dress in Europe. I recognize that European river cruise attire is different. I don’t feel that on our cruise, I made any mistakes – that I brought too much or too little. And, we did it all with only carry-on bags !

Our Avalon Waterways Active And Discovery Cruise

Our Avalon Waterways experience was not our first European river cruise (or, hopefully, our last). This cruise was unique in a few key ways.

First, we cruised up the Danube from Budapest to Linz on a nine day cruise. We cruised in summer during an epic European heat wave. This posed some challenges with our wardrobe for sure.

Second, we experienced Avalon’s Active And Discovery Cruise . They offer this style of cruising on the Rhone River in France, on the Rhine River in the Netherlands and Germany, and on the Danube . We cruised the Danube.

We are not as active as other passengers were on the ship, but our activities focused more on the discovery end.

Whereas many European river cruises offer excursions focusing on walking tours of cities and villages, Avalon’s excursions allow passengers to go much deeper into the local culture.

For us, that meant cooking classes, absinthe tastings, beer tastings, wine tastings, and yes, even a few small hikes. We even met a count! (Read our full review of our Avalon Waterways Danube River Cruise .)

Attire For An Active Cruise

Even if your river cruise is not as active as ours was, our packing list is still relevant and relatable. Our river cruise attire focused on casual and comfortable during the day and casual elegance at night.

This is the same as for any other river cruise. The main difference is that on an active cruise, there might be more of a need for hiking shoes and athletic gear.

I also try to include below why we made certain choices while packing for this cruise.

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Avalon River Cruise Dress Code

Avalon Waterways is different from other river cruise companies. They have a feel of relaxed luxury, with one of the most unique cabins in the industry.

Everything on the ship feels polished and contemporary. All that said, they don’t suggest a dress code for any of their river cruises.

This is particularly the case for their Active and Discovery cruises. During the day, many passengers were decked out in activewear as they explored Hungary and Austria by hiking, biking, or canoeing.

In the evenings, they wanted passengers to not worry about their river cruise attire.

This might not be the case for every cruise line. It’s important to check on the dress code for the river cruise you book.

In this blog post, I share our tips on how to pack for Europe in general as well as how to pack for a European river cruise regardless of whether there is a dress code.

Traveling to Italy? Make sure to read our Italy Packing List post. We lay out all you need to know about packing for Europe’s most stylish country.

How Pack Light For A River Cruise

The one “rule” Avalon had with regard to packing and dressing was that it requested all passengers only carry one piece of luggage. Space is at a premium on all cruise ships. Having lots of experience packing for Portugal and other European destinations, this wasn’t going to be an issue.

Our cabin on the Avalon Impression was, well impressive. At 200 square feet, our cabin was about 30% larger than the industry standard.

Even though both of us are pretty big people, we never felt closed in by our cabin – in part because of the incredible floor-to-ceiling, wall-to-wall sliding doors.

That said I was happy to fully unpack my bag (something I never do at a hotel) and slide it under the bed.

There was a good amount of space under there, but not infinite! Avalon did a good job of moving our bags for us, which we don’t generally need because we pack light!

This is important, particularly for people who are traveling in Europe before or after the cruise. You might end up dragging a bag on cobblestones or up or down stairs in a European train station.

You might need to place your bag overhead on a train. It’s always my recommendation to pack light for Europe! If looking for a secure bag, check out this post on the best anti-theft travel bags .

Best Luggage To Take On A River Cruise

When we took this cruise, we only owned two pieces of luggage, and we used these suitcases whether we are traveling for a long weekend or a month.

Our carry-on sized bag from Eagle Creek can be expanded for extra space when checking it, but it is easy to maneuver and seems almost cavernous inside.

I can carry this bag on my own up and down rail station steps and I can board a train with it all on my own.

If you prefer spinner luggage, check out our review of this hard sided luggage for Europe . It would be perfect for a cruise and would easily fit under the bed for storage.

Traveling to Scotland? Make sure to read our Scotland Packing List post. We lay out all you need to know about packing for all types of weather in Scotland.

What To Pack For A Cruise – Day Bags

what to wear for river cruise excursions

We went a little overboard on our other bags for this trip because I wanted to look nicer when on ship or out to meet the Count of Clam in Austria!

Eric always carries his trusty messenger bag when traveling because he holds our camera, equipment, two laptops, etc. But, he doesn’t generally carry this bag around during the day.

My day bag for our cruise rotated between two options. I have a Desigual purse that fits securely under my arm and is large enough to hold my camera and accessories.

I felt comfortable carrying this day bag for our cruise when heading out on excursions that were less strenuous, like wine tasting, beer tasting, schnapps tasting, etc.

I also had a very lightweight, packable daypack for our more active excursions, i.e. our evening hike through the vineyards in Austria or our climb to a Medieval castle for a knight’s tournament.

At night, when dining on board (or when I met the Count!) I had a tiny, casual evening bag. To me, the best purse for a cruise is one that is small and easy.

This fit my phone, cabin key card, some cash, and lipstick. And, my evening bag is actually made of cork so it matches every outfit!

Each of my bags was small enough to fit in my nightstand when I wasn’t using them, meaning there wasn’t a lot of clutter around our cabin.

Crossbody Bags For Europe

For traveling in Europe, generally, I do recommend a crossbody bag or even an anti-theft bag. If traveling a lot before or after your cruise, this might be something to consider.

I felt really safe heading out on my excursions with Avalon, or even walking around in cities like Budapest, Vienna, and Linz or our own and felt my Desigual bag was sufficient, tucked under my arm. But, we live in Europe.

I also have a Desigual crossbody bag that is slim and fits within my suitcase but is a secure option when sightseeing in big cities.

Or, I recommend Travel-On as an anti-theft day bag option, which comes in a messenger or crossbody bag as well as other options.

See our recommended Crossbody Bags For Travel In Europe .

What To Wear On a European River Cruise

When it comes to what to wear on a river cruise, this is the list of what I packed clothing-wise for a summer cruise. It was hot. We were there when a heat wave smothered Europe.

At the opposite end of the spectrum, our prior river cruise was also in summer, but during a cold and rainy season. It’s important to check the weather a few days before your cruise departs to have a better idea.

For our Danube cruise, I packed a cardigan and never wore it and I left my jeans at home! Where necessary I will make some comments on what to pack for a spring or fall cruise as well.

Recommended River Cruise Clothing:

1 pair of shorts
1 pair of khaki-style pants
2 pairs of capris
1 skirt and 1 pair of light, flowy pants
6-8 tops – for this trip I focused on a lot of blue and shades of blue, so everything matched!
1 set of exercise clothing

This was actually a perfect amount of outfits. This included the fact that it was pretty hot during our trip. Avalon had onboard laundry facilities, but I also managed to wash a few shirts in the cabin too.

If it were spring or fall, I probably would have brought a windbreaker, and a sweater, and I would have packed jeans. I just didn’t think jeans would be needed when the weather said it would be so hot. I was right!

Shoes To Pack For A River Cruise

I have to mention again that I am not a fashionista. I pack for function first. I never want to be the woman wearing the uncomfortable shoes.

I packed three pairs of shoes for this trip, my silver, strappy Birkenstocks , which don’t look too utilitarian.

The best thing is that I can pound the pavement and walk 20,000 steps in a day with these shoes. I also brought a pair of typical sneakers, for exercise and for day hikes.

I also packed my strappy black sandals . This style of sandal goes well with skirts and dressed but can also stand up to the famous European cobblestones.

Other women wore heels and wedges, but I would not have been comfortable wearing those on evening excursions.

The main thing here is to ensure you have at least one pair of really good walking shoes! If taking a fall cruise, I would skip the sandal in favor of an ankle boot or comfortable flats that can be worn for dinner.

Other River Cruise Necessities

There are some other things needed for a cruise in Europe that don’t have to do with attire. These are some of our recommendations and considerations anytime you travel to Europe, with some modifications to our normal advice for the particulars of river cruising.

Here is our European Cruise Packing List (aside from clothes) along with a more in-depth description for each of these items:

Filtered Water Bottle

Camera, Smartphone, Memory Cards
iPad or Kindle Fire

Portable Coffee Maker

Credit Cards and Cash

We’ve never had problems drinking tap water when traveling in Europe, but understand that a river cruise is different.

Avalon did a fabulous job of leaving large bottles of water in our room, offering filtered water at meals, and even bottles of water for our excursions. This was needed – it was hot!

To reduce your use of plastic, I recommend bringing a Brita filtered water bottle so you can fill up your bottle from the tap and carry it with you through the day.

Even better, Avalon is starting the process of installing filtered water dispensers on some of their ships (including the Avalon Impression). Hopefully, future passengers will be able to refill water bottles and reduce plastic.

Avalon is really focused on trying to remove all single-use plastics from its ship. They have already eliminated plastic straws in favor of paper ones. I give a double thumbs up for this effort!

Danube River Cruise With Avalon Waterways

Extra Memory Cards

We upload photos we take on our Smartphones to Dropbox daily and automatically. But, we also both have big memory cards in our Smartphones and on our cameras.

Either upgrade the size of your memory card or pick up an extra before leaving home. You don’t want to miss out on amazing river cruise photos because you’ve run out of space. This 125GB memory card will mean you will never run out of space for your photos.

European River Cruise Packing List Pro Tip

When traveling with a digital camera, delete all old photos from your memory card before leaving home. Then click “reformat” in your function settings.

This will clear the memory completely on your memory card leaving it completely empty for new photos. If you don’t occasionally reformat your memory cards, they continue to hold a lot of old data, which takes up space.

Other Technology Packing For A River Cruise

In addition to a camera or smartphone, there are a handful of tech items that you should add to your travel essentials list for a river cruise.

iPad or Laptop or MacBook

We always travel with our Macbooks, but that’s because we work while traveling. There are some great laptops for travel, but if heading out on an actual vacation (jealous) an iPad or Kindle Fire might work well. This will help you stay connected on board and provide reading material to enjoy on the sky deck.

We always travel with at least one portable battery to top up our smartphones during long days of sightseeing.

We also carry our charging cords with us during the day because there are often cafes or restaurants where we can top up along the way.

We’ve had a few power packs from Anker that have worked well. This can help on an active cruise if you squeeze in a few excursions each day and don’t have time to charge in between.

Travel Adapter

A proper travel adapter will help you charge all of your devices while traveling. I recommend taking multiple adapters on a trip.

We generally carry at least four on each trip, two for our laptops and two for our phones, so we can charge most of our devices at one time.

This is important when you have long days and might not have a ton of time to charge up on the cruise.

A Universal Adapter is the best value because it can be used in Europe, the UK, and Asia.

We were plenty happy with the coffee available on our Avalon cruise. If you are particular about your coffee, though, perhaps consider packing a travel coffee maker, particularly one that doesn’t take up a lot of space.

Check out our review of the Best Portable Coffee Makers .

Passport Requirements For Europe

If you are traveling from within the European Union, a National Identification card is sufficient. For the rest of us, a passport is required.

Be sure to have at least six months’ validity on your passport. For example, if your trip begins on January 1, be sure that your passport doesn’t expire until after July 1.

I recommend scanning a copy of your passport or taking a photo on your phone and keeping it in the “cloud.”

This can mean keeping it in Dropbox , Google Drive, or even just emailing it to yourself so that you can access it if need be.

For most European river cruise destinations, no visa is needed for Americans, Canadians, Australians, etc. But, don’t just assume you do not need a visa. Our Avalon cruise documents explained the rules to us.

Money Issues

This is probably one of the most frequently asked questions about traveling in Europe, particularly for Americans. This advice comes from an American perspective.

You won’t need a lot of cash during your river cruise because most of your activities, excursions, and food will be included on the cruise. You can even often tip your crew on a credit card.

But, if you want to tip guides or explore a city on your own you might want to have a few bucks. In our case, we needed Euros for Austria and Hungarian Forint for Hungary.

ATM Cards And Credit Cards

I recommend bringing one ATM card and two credit cards. Keep one credit card in your cabin safe, or hidden in a suitcase just in case your bag is stolen during the day.

Call your bank and you credit card companies before leaving to let them know where you are traveling and when so that they do not turn your credit card off for suspicious behavior.

Most important, check whether your credit cards charge Foreign Transaction Fees . Foreign Transaction Fees can be 2-3% of every purchase you make. Some cards have these and some don’t.

Most of our Chase credit cards don’t charge the fee. The same goes for ATM cards. Just call to confirm so you are not surprised when you get home with random fees.

As for money, the easiest and best way to access cash when traveling in Europe is to use the local ATM machines to withdraw Euros. We also visited an ATM in Budapest to withdraw money with no problems.

There is no need to convert USD to Euros at your bank before leaving home. There is no need to convert at the airport in the US or in Europe.

Generally, the exchange rates and fees are way worse than simply withdrawing money at an ATM. Avoid ATMs that are located as part of a souvenir shop or convenience store – stick to the ATM machines at legitimate banks. Do this at the start of your trip or in larger cities. Smaller towns and villages visited during your river cruise might have less options for ATM access.

Money Belt or Passport Belt

A lot of people consider a money belt or passport belt when packing for a river cruise in Europe. We have not traveled with one since our first trip to Italy in 2000.

First off, there is no reason to carry your passport with you during the day. Leave it at in your cabin safe and have a copy or a photograph on your phone instead. That way it stays safe.

As for money, Eric doesn’t carry a big wallet when traveling. He keeps his money in his front pocket where it is most safe. If you follow my advice above about keeping money in various places and not carrying all your credit cards with you, you should be fine. This is particularly true if you are used to traveling in big cities, like New York or Chicago. You just need to keep your wits about you.

All that said, if you would feel more secure using a money belt, we recommend this Stash Neck Wallet It includes an RFID blocker, which means that your credit cards are more secure. It also has room for a smartphone to keep it secure as well.

Travel Wallet

Even when not traveling, Eric doesn’t usually carry a wallet. At most, he usually has his ID, ATM card, and no more than two credit cards. Add in some cash and that’s all he carries in his pocket. He’s not a fan of wallets.

With that said, when he first learned about Aviator Wallets , his inner #AvGeek got the best of him and he’s now a wallet convert.

Aviator Wallets are made in Germany. The company’s goal is to provide, the “ultimate Slim Wallet”. Eric has always felt wallets were simply that, bulky. With the Aviator Wallet, he’s found the perfect wallet.

Aviator Wallets are available in a variety of materials including aluminum, carbon fiber, titanium, and wood. Each wallet is adjustable to hold from 1-20 cards.

A handy cash clip is built onto the back of the wallet allowing for easy use. Lastly, a convenient coin holder is tucked inside the wallet.

Eric’s favorite feature of his Aviator Wallet is how easy it is to access the cards he is carrying. A simple pull strap brings the card out of the wallet for easy access. When finished, simply place the card back and push.

Depending on the style of Aviator Wallet, they come in a variety of colors ranging from black and silver to red and Electric Lime. Pricing for Aviation Wallets ranges from $75 to $165. Aviator Wallets ships to the US and throughout the world.

You can buy direct from Aviation Wallet here .

If you have prescription medication that you must travel with, try to bring it in the original bottle that shows your name and details. We’ve never been stopped, but you never know. This is better than bringing random pills in a pill organizer.

What To Not Add To Your River Cruise Packing List

There are a handful of items that many travelers consider adding to their cruise packing list. But for a variety of reasons these should be on your list of what not to pack for a cruise to Europe.

This is mostly because things have changed considerably in Europe, and the world in general, over the past decade.

Traveler’s Checks

In today’s society, traveler’s checks are no longer needed. In fact, they can be a real pain to use because you need to go to a bank (when the banks are open) to exchange them. Follow our tips on how to access money in Europe, above.

Most European cruise ship cabins will have a hairdryer. You can double-check the availability of a hair dryer on your ship’s list of room amenities. Packing a hairdryer takes up space. It requires an adapter.

Some cruise ships won’t have a proper outlet in the bathroom for this kind of appliance.

On our Avalon ship I used the hairdryer they provided and it worked wonders. If you do want to pack a hair dryer, choose a dual voltage hair dryer to ensure you can use it in Europe.

Impractical Shoes

When living in Bangkok I bought a fabulous pair of bright red heels. I wore them out a lot there, where we were taking taxis or an Uber to go out at night with friends. I’ve never worn them in Europe, even where we live in Spain.

First, we walk everywhere. Second, heels and cobblestones don’t mix. For a cruise, perhaps you want to choose a pair of heels or wedges to wear to dinner, but it might be better to wear flats during the day for excursions.

Amber Hoffman

Amber Hoffman, food and travel writer behind With Husband In Tow, is a recovering attorney and professional eater, with a passion for finding new food and drink destinations. She lives with her husband, Eric, in Girona, Catalonia, Spain. Together over the last 20 years, they have traveled to over 70 countries. Amber is the author of the Food Traveler’s Guide to Emilia Romagna. She regularly lectures on social media marketing to travel professionals throughout Europe.

One thought on “ What To Wear On A European River Cruise – Packing List ”

I loved your article on what to pack for a Budapest – Prague river cruise. I’ve packed for several trips to Europe, but never for a river cruise. I will use it as my checklist for packing. Thanks!

Packing Essentials For a River Cruise

By Helene Sula

You're setting sail down the scenic Danube.

It's a beautiful, cool night and your stomach starts to growl. Not to worry, you have a myriad of choices for dinner. But, what should you wear? Better yet, what are the packing essentials for a river cruise in Europe or beyond?

Taking a river cruise is one of the best ways to see a place. It’s relaxing, beautiful, and makes your travel all the easier. But the tough part is packing. What do you need to wear for dinner? Do river cruises require formal wear? What about for the excursions? And what about adapters?! I know many might have questions on what to pack on a river cruise so I’m making a detailed list to ensure you have everything you need.

See my full review of my Budapest and Austria Cruise on the Danube right here.

Why take a river cruise?

I find river cruises to be a wonderful way to see and really experience a destination. I recently traveled with Avalon Waterways on their Active and Discovery cruise starting in Budapest, Hungary and traveling through Hungary through Austria. I not only got to see beautiful places along the way, I felt I had sufficient time at each place to really engulf myself in each city. Because Avalon Cruises offer so many excursions for so many skill levels, there are a range of ages and interests on the ship, making this an exceptional cruise. I also made friends along the way, had delicious food, and had the luxury of visiting multiple cities and countries while I spent the night in the same comfortable room each night.

If you’re still on the fence, check out this quiz to see if river cruise travel is right for you .

What to pack on a river cruise

Remember, you're not going anywhere internationally without a passport! Pack that first!

Packing for a river cruise first depends on the length of time you’ll be there. I often tell people to pack as minimally as possible, but because you have the luxury of just one place to put all your stuff, you can often pack a bit more. I still wholeheartedly believe in a carry on bag (even if you are taking a three week trip).

The bag is totally essential! I recommend the Osprey Porter 46 Liter backpack . I carry on nearly all of my trips. The Osprey bag allows for extra room and space and is an effortless bag to manage and carry all your stuff! I also love the multiple pockets that make organizing your packing a breeze.

See how I pack this bag right here: How to Pack for a Long Trip in A Carry On

If you're interested in even more organization, I recommend packing cubes . This is also great for separating formal wear from athletic clothes.

Dressing for a River Cruise

The benefit of taking a river cruise is that they are usually a lot less formal than a typical cruise. You can wear jeans, pants, or a dress to dinner. Shorts are usually not permitted in the evening, but you can wear a blouse, nice jeans, or a skirt or slacks. Especially on the Avalon River Cruise I’d say the dinner time dressing was “business casual.” I felt comfortable with all the items I brought. I do suggest bringing at least one nicer outfit since most cruises offer a fancier evening.

During the day, you can wear whatever you like: shorts, t-shirts, or athletic wear. Sometimes, for lunch in the dining room, you’ll want to wear something a bit more upscale than athleisure. I suggest jeans or pants with a short or long sleeve shirt, depending on the weather.

For your excursions, you should dress depending on what your excursion calls for. If you’re biking, I recommend leggings or pants, hiking shoes if you’re trekking, or even a nice dress if you’re heading to a concert or dinner. Usually, your excursion is fairly self-explanatory for what to wear.

There does tend to be a dress code at night for a river cruise. This is usually fairly casual, but at night or for dinner you'll want to dress “smart casual.” This typically means a dress, jeans, trousers, skirt, or pants. Formal wear is not necessary. Although, I did bring a silk skirt for a formal evening at the opera. This wasn't necessary but nice to have!

The Essentials

For your clothing on a river cruise, I suggest bringing neutrals. This will allow you to easily mix and match pieces and feel like you have a few different outfit options. I like to bring black, white, and beige whenever I travel. I also suggest adding a few pops of color: a dress, scarf, or skirt so that you have options no matter the weather.

Remember, the clothing you bring will depend on the season. But here's what I typically suggest:

1 white top (great for layer and pairing with jeans). These basic tops are my favorites and I own them in every color.

1 black top

2 nice blouses to wear for dinner or formal events

A jacket or cardigan, it can get cool in the nights for Spring and Summer or bring a heavier one for Fall and Winter. Since weather can be unpredictable, I always recommend a rain jacket.

1 bra and 2 sports bras as well as a shirt to sleep in.

Leggings ( these are my favorite for travel, and I've tested quite a few).

Depending on the weather you might want bringing a pair of shorts or an additional pair of pants.

Skirts (I recommend bringing 2 since you can mix and match them with your tops).

I also recommend to bring a casual dress and two more formal dresses for dinner.

Underwear and socks for the length of the trip as well as bottoms to sleep in.

I swear by my white Adidas Superstars . As in, it's kind of my thing. I even made a gif about it and share them on my Instagram stories. To me, they go with nearly everything and can be dressed up and down.

I also recommend bringing a pair of more formal shoes, either sandals or closed-toe shoes depending on your weather. In the evenings you will want to dress up and you might have a formal night out, so these shoes are recommended.

Remember to bring the right shoes for your activities: hiking boots for hikes, running shoes if you plan to workout or run, boots if it's winter. Flip flops are also a good option if swimming.

Bottom line for shoes: make sure you're comfortable! You'll be doing quite a bit of walking so it's best to be comfy.

Accessories

Other than my backpack, I prefer a crossbody bag for my purse. I like one that has a flap or zipper to hold my valuables. This helps to avoid pickpockets and leaves your hands free. I like this purse from Fossil, it's a beautiful but durable leather that holds up for years.

Other things to bring:

Scarf (make this a colorful one to add a pop of color to your wardrobe)

Hat (opt for one that can be easily packed, like this one )

While you'll find that many cruises come standard with things like shampoo and soap, there are some times you'll want to pack. I never leave home without a brush and leave-in conditioner to tame my mane.

I like the Wet Brush and feel it's easy to pack and get out tangles. I also like this leave-in conditioner (it smells great too!).

If you bring a curling iron or straightener you will need to bring an converter . In Europe the voltage is 220 so your converter will need to be equipped with this.

You'll also want to bring your makeup as well as a make up bag. I have an extremely detailed post on how to pack your makeup bag as well as the best travel makeup.

Other things to bring are: medication, sunscreen, and other toiletries.

Electronics

In this modern age, it seems like we never leave home without our electronics. Especially with how great digital cameras and smartphones are for capturing the moment. Make sure to bring:

Camera and charging cord, I recommend this DSLR camera .

Phone and charging cord. I also bring a portable charger to ensure I always have power.

Adapters for your plugs.

I personally wear a Fitbit and sometimes to forget the charging cord, which is why having a packing list so important!

You might want to bring on your laptop or iPad. There is WiFi on board the Avalon river cruise . There are also some computers for you to use if you don't want to lug an additional device.

I also recommend that you bring headphones since you will most likely go on walking tours that include a live guide and you'll carry an audio guide for the tour.

Storage On Board A River Cruise

I think you might be pleasantly surprised by the amount of room for storage on board your cruise. In particular, on the Avalon river cruise , because of the revolutionary “Open-Air Balcony” you'll not only have ample space in the closet, the room is quite large.

The great thing about a river cruise is that you'll pick many of your activities ahead of time, this was you can be prepared when packing. Make sure to review your itinerary and check to see what you might need. For example, you might go for a swim, hiking, or a formal night out. It's nice to be prepared.

Take a look at how long your cruise will be, the season, and typical weather conditions for where you'll be heading.

Things you don't need to pack

On your cruise you will usually find some handy essentials. I found this to be the case on the Avalon Waterways River Cruise . My room came complete with a robe, slippers, nail file, cotton pads, soap, conditioner, and a hairdryer- this is so handy!

Tips for Packing

I always recommend that you lay everything out so you're able to see what you need and how well it will mix and match together. The key to success when packing is to use neutrals that can go together so that you can create multiple outfits out of what you've brought.

Can I do laundry on board?

Yes! On the Avalon River Cruises laundry service is available for a fee.

Money in Europe/Beyond

The great thing about booking a cruise is that most of your activities are pre-paid, or attached to your credit card. That means you won't have to worry too much with cash. But I do recommend having some of the place's local currency on hand for small purchases.

Make sure to call your bank ahead of time to let them know you'll be making international purchases. Then you can use local ATMs to get out cash.

Here's the full packing list for a river cruise:

Suitcase/backpack (I recommend the Osprey Porter Bag )
Packing Cubes
T-shirt to sleep in
Jacket or Cardigan (coat if it's cold)
Rain Jacket
Sports Bras
Pants/shorts (depending on weather)
PJ pants/shorts
Walking shoes – I like these
Sandals/Closed-toe shoe
Crossbody purse
Hat (I like a felt hat because it's easy to pack)
Makeup & Makeup bag
Straightener or Curling Iron
Converter , if bringing a hot tool like a straightener
Leave in Conditioner
Phone and charger
Camera and charger
Portable charger
Other electronics and cords (for example I bring a FitBit and charger)

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MEET THE AUTHOR

Helene Sula

I believe that one trip can change your life. It did for me. I'm a self proclaimed home body that quit her job, moved abroad, and more often than not, lives out of a carry-on bag. If I'm not traveling, I'm most likely re-reading Harry Potter or watching "Midnight in Paris" while snuggling my dogs. I'm a digital marketing expert who turned my love of travel into a full-time career. And I help others do it too.

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What to Wear on a River Cruise

Dress code on a river cruise means “leave the tux and gown at home.”.

Strictly nice casual. That’s the dress code aboard a river cruise. Unlike formal nights on ocean cruises, river cruises are more about the destinations than onboard dress-up events.

Keep it simple. Unlike on an ocean cruise, there are no formal nights on a river cruise. The dressiest it gets is the Captain’s Farewell Dinner on the last night. Men sometimes wear a sport coat over a collared shirt or turtleneck T. Some women opt for a sparkly top and a nice pair of pants…but that’s about it. During the day, it’s all about comfort.

If you go in Spring or Fall

Weather on a spring or fall Europe or Columbia (USA) river cruise can be unpredictable. Early spring can bring chilly winds that rush down the river or bright blue cloudless skies to make a walk on the sun deck totally enjoyable. Fall cruises can be chilly and drizzly or totally gorgeous autumn days. You just never know. So it’s important be able to dress in layers no matter what the season.

Summer river cruising

Mississippi river cruises in summer can be extremely hot and humid, more so than on the Rhine. Because you’ll be wearing very lightweight clothes for the Mississippi in summer, be sure to bring a sweater or wrap for the dining room, if temperature changes affect you.

Christmas market cruises in Europe

This category deserves its own how-to dress information. River cruises on the Rhine from late November and onward can be quite chilly if not altogether cold. Gray days can prevail, but sunny days are not out of the question. Be prepared with a hat, warm scarf, gloves and a roomy yet lightweight coat made for colder weather. You may even end up buying a winter coat in Europe. Everyone in Europe loves their leather boots, so feel free to bring yours or buy a pair in Germany.

Some cold weather river cruisers bring silk undergarments and then layer with thin clothing like cotton tops for women and long-sleeve pullovers for men. A flannel-lined water-repellent windbreaker or lightweight parka (that you wear from home) plus hat and gloves are a good idea, too. Even for spring and fall, bring one warm scarf to wrap around your neck and tuck inside your jacket. Bring (or buy!) a few dressier, thin scarves too, for a quick way to change an outfit.

Look like a local

Blend in. Keep your white sneakers, USA-emblazoned baseball caps and neon clothing at home. While extremely stylish, Europeans dress mostly in dark colors year round. It’s quite common to see both men and women wearing a beautifully-colored scarf to add a bit of punch to a drab outfit.

Build your cruise wardrobe around one central color scheme, whether brown, black or charcoal. Pieces that you can mix and match will make your life so much easier. No one will notice if you wear the same outfit twice.

Bring the right shoes

All river cruise require some amount of walking, much of which is on cobblestones or nature parks. Ancient ruins aren’t equipped with elevators. Don’t bring your new pair of walking shoes unless you’ve spent time at home breaking them in for your trip.

Women can leave their high heels at home too. Generally, three or four pairs of shoes works fine; one good pair of broken-in walking shoes – preferable not white, dressy low-heeled shoes in black, and a pair of black or dark colored flats. Almost every river cruise line gives passengers slippers to wear in their cabin so you can leave yours at home. Wear the slippers to the pool and leave your flip-flops at home.

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Disabilities, Limited Mobility and Handicapped Advice

Viking River Cruises’ Viking Radgrid Ship Review and Photos

Hi Patty, Thank you for reading my river cruise article. I hope you’ve read my review of Viking’s Grand European cruise, too. What a fabulous trip.

For packing for your river cruise, especially in March, it’s going to be a bit chilly (though maybe 60s and sunny!)by the time you get to Amsterdam. Yes, I would pack as though it was a week-long cruise, except maybe for some extra underwear or socks so you don’t have to keep doing sink washes every few days! For the couple of dressier nights, you can get good use from a nice pair of black pants and 2-3 different tops with a couple of scarves. You can even buy a new scarf in different cities. For shoes, one pair of dressy shoes (not a super high heel), good walking shoes and a nice casual low shoe should be fine.

Did you mean that you don’t use a backpack…or should you not use a backpack. I always use one, either black or dark navy, with a water bottle holder net on the side. I criss-cross the backpack straps onto the suitcase handle and that frees up a lot of weight. I’m not sure if Viking is doing guest laundry and I’m thinking they don’t but it’s worth the money if they do. Europeans dress nice and it’s good to not look too “American” if possible.

In Amsterdam, anything goes…it’s very casual and you’d be fine in a nice pair of jeans. I’ve been in Amsterdam several times in April for Kukenhof flowers show and have always needed a puffy jacket, even when sunny. Those are great to have on a river cruise, especially on the Rhine where the wind can get pretty brisk from the North Sea. And they’re great for layering too.

I hope this is helpful. Please let me know if you need any more advice or suggestions or just have questions about the itinerary. Here’s my review of your trip: https://cruisemaven.com/viking-grand-european-tour-river-cruise-review-budapest-to-amsterdam/

Thank you again for reading my blog and taking the time to ask your questions. Have a wonderful trip! Sherry

Lve reading your blog! we are going on Viking Grand European Cruise in March 2023 for 20 days (2 days in Prague then Budapest to Amersterdam -staying 2 extra days in Amsterdam.

I am so confused on what to pack–I am hoping you can help me out!

Should I only pack for one week? or more? Don’t use a backpack? Etc 🙂

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River cruise dress codes: What to pack?

by Emma Smith - 04/10/2018

Dress codes can vary depending on your cruise line, time of day and even where you sail.

Suitcase space is limited so we have compiled a guide on our river cruise lines and their dress codes to make it easy for you to plan your outfits!

AmaWaterways

The AmaWaterways dress code suggests country club casual on-board their ships, such as cotton or linen clothes. This could include trousers and shirt for men – without the need for a tie or jacket – and dresses or trousers with a blouse for women. During the Captain’s Dinner, guests are advised to dress up a little more in suits and cocktail dresses.

Group on-board Amadeus ship - River cruise

Guests on-board Amadeus are made to feel comfortable, with no specific dress code on-board. For dinner and special occasions, Amadeus are advised to wear elegant clothing.

Recommended items of clothing include comfortable walking shoes, sturdy sandals, a lightweight waterproof jacket and long sleeve shirts as some ports and excursions are over uneven terrain and can be quite cool.

Avalon Waterways

The dress code on-board Avalon Waterways is casual and comfortable, with the cruise line looking to make you feel at home on-board. However, during occasions such as the Captain’s Reception and the Farewell Dinner some guests prefer to dress up a little more.

The only specifications are as follows:

Guests are not permitted to wear shorts in the Dining Room or Panorama Lounge in the evenings
Bathing suits are worn only on the Sky Deck

CroisiEurope

CroisiEurope advises for guests to don a casual outfit during the day, recommending light suits and swimwear for warm weather and a sweater or jacket for cooler weather.

For dinners, cocktails and galas, CroisiEurope advises guests to dress up a little more with gentlemen wearing a jacket and tie.

Crystal Cruises

On-board a Crystal river cruise, guests are advised to wear comfortable and casual wear during the day. This includes the dining room, however, swimswuits, cover-ups, robes and baseball caps are not appropriate in the dining room during the day.

In the evenings, the dress code is Crystal Casual which is a dressed-up version of daytime dress code. Crystal Casual includes:

Women – Blouse, sweater, dress slacks, skirt and dresses
Men – Open-collar shirt, collared polo shirt, button-down shirt, dress shirt, dress pants and smart trousers. Sports coats are optional and no tie is required

Emerald Waterways

On-board Emerald Waterways guests are advised to follow a relaxed and comfortable dress code. In the evenings, the cruise line operates a smart-casual dress code including open-neck shirts with slacks and dresses. Guests can wear ties and jackets if they desire, but this is not required.

Emerald Waterways also hosts a Captain’s Reception, where guests may want to don their finery – though this is more cocktail dresses than ball gowns.

Couple on-board boat for a river cruise shore excursion

On-board APT river cruises the dress code is smart casual, though the cruise line advises on comfortable footwear for all tours and light, casual clothing for adventure tours.

Riviera Travel

Riviera Travel also carries a relaxed dress code, with comfortable and casual clothing alongside walking shoes for the day. In the evenings, guests can dress a little smarter – though this is not required.

On every cruise there’s a Captain’s Welcome Drink and Farewell Dinner, for these most guests dress up a little more though there’s no need for black tie or ball gowns.

Scenic River

Guests are free to wear what they wish during their time on-board Scenic River. However, it’s worth packing for the weather on your cruise depending on the regions you’re visiting.

Daytime dress codes are comfortable and casual, with a dress or two for the formal evening occasions.

Scenic advises guests to pack a comfortable pair of shoes for excursions and sandals for if the weather is warm. During specific Freechoice or Enrich events, bring a pair of smart shoes or heels.

Shearing has no dress codes throughout your journey, though you are travelling via coach and river cruise ship so we would suggest comfortable and casual clothes for the day, with something a little smarter for the evenings.

Tauck does not have a strict dress code and advises guests to pack comfortable and convenient clothes for both day and night. A slightly dressy outfit for certain evenings including the following:

Men – A blazer or sports coat, chinos and polo shirt
Women – Skirt, dressy top or simple dress

Uniworld advises guests to pack for a range of weather conditions, though there is no strict dress code on-board. Both onshore and on-board the cruise line recommends comfortable, smart-casual clothing including sturdy walking shows for shore excursions.

When dining ashore, attending special events or concerts men may want to bring a sports jacket and women a cocktail dress or pantsuit – ties are optional. On-board, the only advisories are that shorts are not allowed at dinner.

U by Uniworld

U by Uniworld’s dress code is straight and simple. They simply require guests to come as you are, with no requirements for dining or excursions.

Viking River

Dress is casual on-board Viking River, with shorts, slacks or jeans advised. Swimsuits, brief shorts, cover-ups and exercise attire should be reserved for the Fitness Centre, pool areas and Sports Deck.

Though there are no formal nights on-board Viking River cruises, evening dress is elegant casual across all dining venues, performances and special events. This includes:

Women – Dress, skirt or slacks with a sweater or blouse
Men – Trousers and collared shirt with a tie and jacket being optional

Jeans are not permitted at this time and evening dress excludes World Cafe where the dress remains casual after 6pm.

Book your river cruise with RiverVoyages.com

Look forward to picking your outfits for your next river cruise and book yourself on-board with RiverVoyages.com. Take your pick from our top selection of river cruises and browse our best deals by clicking the button below.

If you have any questions, or would like to know more, call our Cruise Concierge team on 0800 197 0854 for expert advice and award-winning service with your booking.

Have you cruised with any of the above river cruise lines before? What advice would you give about the dress codes? Let us know in the comments below!

About Emma Smith

Emma has more than seven years' experience as a writer and has been in the travel industry for nearly five years. She loves learning about new places and cruise ships coming to market, as well as discovering fun and exciting activities to do while you sail. She has cruised with Princess Cruises, Cunard, Celebrity Cruises, Virgin Voyages, Avalon Waterways and Royal Caribbean and is looking to get something in her diary for 2024! Her favourite things to see on a ship include excellent entertainment, a delicious cocktail menu and extraordinary dining venues.

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How to create a capsule wardrobe for river cruises (with outfit inspiration)

Are you wondering how to create a capsule wardrobe for river cruises? In this guide we round up our favourite river cruise outfits for women whatever time you are visiting.

Important Note : This post may contain affiliate links which means if you click through and make a purchase I will make a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Table of Contents

Why should I pack a capsule wardrobe for river cruises?

Are you wondering why you should pack a capsule wardrobe for a river cruise? Well the truth is whatever type of cruise you are going on from a world cruise to a Caribbean cruise the state rooms are small (unless you are in a suite of course).

However the truth is that the cabins are even smaller on a river cruise than on an ocean going liner. Therefore taking a capsule wardrobe is even more important on a river cruise than any other type of cruise because you have even more limited space.

Now you know why you should pack a capsule wardrobe a river cruise, we turn our attention to to put together a river cruise capsule wardrobe and not overpack . For information on how to pack a minimalist capsule wardrobe check out this post.

How to put together capsule wardrobe river cruise outfits

The keys to putting together any capsule wardrobe is “pack less wear more” as in, pack fewer things but be able to wear them in several styles and outfits.

Therefore for putting together a river cruise capsule wardrobe we recommend

Choosing a color palette and sticking to it as that way more items will go together
Don’t pack anything that you won’t wear at home because you won’t wear it on vacation
Don’t pack anything that doesn’t work in at least two outfits
Don’t pack anything that needs a lot of care i.e. drying cleaning, frequent ironing etc. – don’t forget irons and clothes steamers are on the what not to pack for a cruise list .
Pack breathable fabric if you are traveling on a river cruise in summer – we prefer cottons over linen for the above reason
Layers and some adjustment to the below will be required if you are visiting in the Winter or one of the shoulder seasons.
Using the 5 4 3 2 1 Packing Method

How is a river cruise capsule wardrobe to other types of cruise capsule wardrobes for women

Now you may think all cruise capsule wardrobes are the same and this just isn’t true. What you wear on a Caribbean cruise is very different to what to pack for a cruise to the South Pacific or Iceland for instance.

And a river cruise is very different to other types off cruises because:

the cabins are smaller and therefore you have less space to store clothes and luggage.
river cruises tend to be less formal than ocean going counterparts with very few river cruises having full on formal nights in the dining room.
the ports you are going to tend to be European cities which will involve more walking and more changeable weather.

Note : This river cruise capsule wardrobe packing list is mainly intended for river cruises in Europe which sail along the Rhine and the Danube. If you are going on a river cruise elsewhere in the world be sure to check out our specific packing lists such as what to wear on a Nile River Cruise.

And be sure to check out our specific Christmas Market River Cruise packing guide for Winter river cruises.

What to pack for a river cruise outfit inspiration

T shirts are the top of my list for river cruise capsule wardrobes. They are versatile when picked in a neutral color and go with almost any type of bottom. They can also be dressed up if you want to wear them in the evening and are easily layered if you are traveling in cooler weather.

I would also add one jazzier top that can used be in the main dining if you enjoy dressing up for dinner.

Click here to shop t shirts

Amazon Essentials Women's Long-Sleeve Woven Blouse, Blue Stripe, X-Large

Although you don’t have formal mights per se on a river cruise I still like to change and dress for dinner. My preferred option is to change into a blouse.

A blouse can be dressed up with some jewellery, goes with several types of bottoms and is also great for daytime wear.

They are the perfect thing to wear too if you are planning to visit some religious sites if you pack blouses that are elbow or full sleeve in length.

Click here to shop blouses.

Trousers / shorts / skirts

I would normally pack at least one of each of the above for summer weather cruises so I have all bases covered for Europe’s changeable weather.

If you check the weather app before you travel and see that the weather is going to be hotter or colder than expected I would tweak this list to work for the weather you are going to get.

For shorts I prefer to pack a pair of tailored chino shorts as this are slightly smarter and will work in a wider variety of places.

If you are traveling at a colder time I would also add a pair of jeans into the mix instead of a skirt or shorts.

I love a Maxi dress and all of my capsule wardrobes normally contain at least one that can be used during the day on a sightseeing tour and can be dressed up with jewellery or a pashmina for evenings.

Ciormis Shawl Wraps for Women, Silky Jacquard Paisley Pashmina Scarves for Bridal Formal Dresses（US-Light Blue）

This is always my travel go to. It can dress up daytime outfits for use in the dining room and is great as an extra layer if the weather turns cold or you go somewhere with lots of air conditioning.

Click here to shop great versatile pashminas

Cardigans are a perfect layer for when you are traveling on a river cruise and can be used to dress up an evening outfit. I would usually take at least two – more smarter and one more casual

Boots are great for if you are traveling and going to experience rain and cold on your itinerary. I would pack a pair of water resistance boots as a must for a river cruise. But make sure you do not pack thin heeled boots.

Many of the places you will be visiting on a river cruise will be very old cities that have lots of cobbled streets where thin heels can be a hazard for instance I always put thin heeled boots on my what not to wear in Amsterdam and what not to wear in Paris lists for this reason.

Instead chose thick heel boots, flatter boots or wedges.

If you are traveling in summer or are expected to have great weather during your river cruise I would leave the boots at home and instead opt for a pair of sandals that can be both used for walking around cities and can be used at dinner.

If you plan to walk in sandals at all it is really important to get a pair with a good sole and plenty of arch support so your feet don’t kill you after the end of a long day sightseeing.

Our preference is for a pair of Hotter or Clarks sandals with arch support and a bit of sparkle.

Click here to shop sandals with arch support

As a river cruise port will likely entail lots of walking around cities, botanic gardens and markets I recommend packing a really comfy pair of sneakers.

Some of our favourite brands of sneakers for cruises are sketchers Go Walks, All Birds and Hotters.

Click here to shop sneakers for river cruises.

Pack Away rain jacket

ZHENWEI Raincoat,Women's Lightweight Waterproof with Hood Rain Jacket Outdoor(Black,M)

Whenever you travel to Europe there is a chance you will experience a rainy day on your trip. But don’t let rain spoil your trip. Pack a packaway lightweight rain jacket that doesn’t take up much space just in case you get rain on your trip.

If you are going to experience cold weather on your trip you will also want a thicker jacket with you.

Click here to shop packaway rain jackets.

For each day of the cruise and for the duration of your vacation pre and post cruise.

Ok, swimwear is the only thing on the list that really can’t be used as part of another outfit. But it is definitely necessary as river cruises like their ocean going counter parts will usually, though not always have a pool – check your vessel amenities to be sure before packing.

And those that don’t have pools may have hot tubs and jacuzzis that you might want to use.

For a full list of what toiletries to pack for a cruise check out this post.

Thanks again to our resident cruise expert Tricia for her advice and tips in creating this river cruise capsule wardrobe.

Have you been on a river cruise? What did you find you used lots or not at all? we’d love to hear your experiences in the comments.

Viking River Cruise Packing List and Cruise Packing Tips (2024)

By: Author Kate O'Malley

Posted on Last updated: January 4, 2024

Home >> Travel Tips >> Cruises >> Viking River Cruise Packing List and Cruise Packing Tips (2024)

A common question for first-time river cruisers is how to pack for a cruise . We have learned a lot sailing on Viking River Cruises and Viking Ocean Cruises over the years. We’ve learned that packing for a river cruise differs from what you would pack for a cruise on one of the bigger cruise lines.

With this in mind, we’ve put together our Viking River Cruise packing list. Our list is loaded with helpful cruise packing tips that help you to get ready for your river cruise.

You will find an example 7-10 day packing list at the end of the article to use as a starting point for your packing.

A viking river cruises ship sits docked at night lit up with christmas lights.

Table of Contents

How to Pack for a Viking River Cruise

One of the great advantages of a river cruise is being able to unpack once and relax for the rest of your cruise. However, even with all the great packing hacks we mention here, the secret to packing for a cruise is still to pack light.

River cruise cabins are smaller than hotel or ocean vessel rooms, so pack only essentials to avoid clutter.

Related: 10 Travel Safety Tips to Put in Place Before You Go

Storage in Your Cabin

One thing we love about Viking River Cruise vessels is the ample storage in the cabins. While the cabin may not be that spacious, there is plenty of drawer and cupboard space to stow your things. Empty suitcases or bags slide easily under the beds to minimize clutter.

A stateroom on a Viking river cruise showing the bed, window and dresser.

Pack Your Cruise Carry On Bag Wisely

When you set sail on a Viking river cruise, smart packing matters. Remember your essentials: a change of clothes, basic toiletries, and vital medications in your carry-on bag. Having the best wheeled underseat luggage helps you travel light and keeps you prepared for emergencies on your Viking river cruise.

If you’re using a fly-cruise package and the airline misplaces your luggage, it might arrive late or at the next port. This delay could disrupt your Viking river cruise packing plans.

While it rarely happens, if your bags do get delayed on the river cruise, you have no need to worry. Freshen up and explore the ship without waiting for your belongings during your Viking river cruise.

Related : Avoid lost luggage issues. We’ve rounded up the Best Luggage Trackers and Smart Tags to help you find lost luggage fast.

Reading and games area on a viking river cruise with shelves of books and a view of the ship's atrium in the background.

Best Time to Take a River Cruise

There are many river cruises in Europe , but there are numerous others aroudn the globe. Consider voyaging along rivers in China, Vietnam, or Egypt for a diverse experience beyond the usual European route.

When preparing your attire for a Viking River cruise, consider the chosen cruise destination and the prevailing weather conditions. Seasons play a crucial role.

Many opt for European river cruises during spring and autumn, characterized by varied weather. Europe’s summer can also be unpredictable, unlike parts of Asia where summer often brings heavy rainfall

Colourful cathedral in St. Petersburg with light snow falling.

Related : Take a Look on Board Viking Ocean Cruises Viking Sea

Review the Shore Excursions

When assessing your river cruise itinerary, pay close attention to planned excursions and those you’ve already reserved.

Consider packing attire suitable for specific excursions, like versatile hiking or walking shoes for comfortable strolls.

Some activities, like the Russian Banya or Budapest’s spas, might necessitate a swimsuit, providing unique bathing experiences.

Shore excursions are pivotal in European river cruises, often offering cultural evening events such as opera or ballet. For these, consider slightly more formal attire.

Help reduce single-use plastic when you travel .

It is extremely important to incorporate eco-friendly practices into your travels. While Viking provides bottled water on excursions, using a reusable filtering water bottle is environmentally conscious, budget-friendly, and ensures safe refills anywhere.

Explore our guide for the best travel-friendly filtering and purifying water bottles that suit your preferences.

People sitting in the thermal baths in Budapest. A horse shoe shaped sitting area in the pool with the old baths building in the background.

Best Luggage for a Cruise

What kind of luggage is best for a cruise? The best luggage for a river cruise is sturdy, easy to maneuver through airports, and easy to stow under the bed.

We prefer a soft duffle-style bag with wheels and a telescopic handle. They are easy to pack, easy to carry, and pack flat when not in use. They are also more forgiving if you overpack a little or pick up too many souvenirs on your trip.

Samsonite Wheeled Duffel

Samsonite Ripstop Wheeled Rolling Duffel Bag, Blue, 26-Inch

We like the Samsonite wheeled duffel bags because they are lightweight, easy to carry and with changeable packing options, are so easy to pack. They also come in different sizes depending on your requirement. Perfect for cruises.

Cruise Luggage Tips

If you are traveling as a couple, we recommend taking one large suitcase or bag between you for a cruise and one carry-on bag each.
You maximize the room in your cabin this way and only have to worry about one case while traveling.
With this in mind, consider baggage weight allowances if your river cruise includes domestic flights within the country.

Best Bags for Cruise Excursions

The ideal bag for shore excursions should prioritize comfort, practicality, and anti-theft features while avoiding excessive bulkiness.

For women, consider opting for anti-theft crossbody purses over large shoulder totes. These practical, stylish alternatives prevent overfilling for comfort, blend in discreetly, and offer security.

Given the extensive walking during river cruise town explorations, prioritize comfort to avoid pickpocketing incidents

Read Our Guide to the Best Crossbody Bags for Travel

Crossbody Bags for Travel

Travelon Anti-Theft Heritage Hobo Bag, Indigo, 11.5 X 9.5 X 3

Travelon Anti-theft Heritage Bag

Sherpani Prima, Anti Theft Crossbody Bag

Travelon Anti-Theft Classic Crossbody Bag, Midnight, One Size

Travelon Anti-Theft Cross Body Bag

Read Our Guide to the Best Anti Theft Handbags and Purses for Travel

Anti Theft Fanny Packs

Discover the resurgence of trendy fanny packs, the perfect lightweight companion for day excursions during your river cruise or leisurely days on board.

We have reviewed some of the best and most stylish fanny packs for travel here , but these are a few of our favorites. Some even transition beautifully from day to evening.

Travelon Addison-Anti-Theft-Convertible Crossbody/Belt Bag

Travelon Origin-Anti-Theft-Hip Pack Waistpack/Crossbody-SILVADUR Treated, Driftwood, One Size

Travelon Origin Anti-Theft Waistpack/Sling Bag treated with Silvadur antimicrobial technology

Daypacks for Cruise Excursions

When you choose a travel daypack, prioritize features like hidden pockets, secure zippers, and adaptable designs that remain snug against your back. Make sure you can easily shift your bag to the front in crowded settings.

You can avoid the risk of pickpocketing if you opt for a sling bag. These types of bags provide added security. You can explore our curated collection of Sling Backpacks for men & women .

Read Our Complete Guide to Buying an Anti-Theft Backpack

Best Cruise Purse for Evening Excursions and Onboard

If you want to bring an additional purse for evening excursions or evenings on board, consider a handbag for travel with a small anti-theft wristlet or clutch for evenings. Or, pack a separate anti-theft clutch that won’t take up much room in your bag.

Perfect for carrying your phone, lipstick, room card, and money without having to pack an extra purse.

Baggallini womens Horizon Travel Crossbody cross body handbag

Baggallini Women's Cross Over Crossbody, Pewter Zebra

Baggallini Women’s Cross Over Bag with Wristlet

Travelon Anti-Theft Boho Clutch Crossbody Bag

Related: A Complete Guide to the Best Anti-theft Travel Gear

Example Viking River Cruise Packing List

Below is a packing list that will give you all the essentials you need. Continue reading beyond this list to understand the best reasons why you should bring these specific clothing items. This cruise packing list is for a seven to ten-day cruise. You may want to increase some clothing items depending on the type and duration of the cruise.

5 – 7 Tops to mix and match with bottoms.
1-2 Dressier tops for special evenings.
3-4 Bottoms to mix and match with tops.
1 Dressier pant/skirt/dress for special evenings.
1-2 Long sleeved sweaters depending on the season.
Lightweight jacket/cardigan for cooler days.
Scarf/stole – either lightweight for summer or woollen for winter.
Underwear for the duration of your trip.
Socks for the duration (including compression socks for the flight).
Swimsuit if the itinerary or excursions call for it.
Travel umbrella.
Lightweight rain jacket or poncho.
Sunglasses and reading glasses.

Seasonal Additions

Winter jacket – Lightweight, packable puffy down jacket for travel.
Warm winter hat.
Pair of gloves.
Winterweight scarf/woolen stole.
Pair winter shoes – opt for lightweight over heavy boots.
Sun hat for summer
1 pair of comfortable walking shoes.
1 pair of day shoes for around the boat or casual evenings.
1 pair of dressy shoes for special evenings.
1 pair of flip-flops or similar for relaxing in your cabin.

Tech and Accessories

Extra SD cards for the camera
External phone charger
Kindle or E-Reader
Batteries and chargers for all devices
Travel adapters (if you need them)
A power strip (if you think you need one)

Personal Items

Toiletries and all medications – (quality shampoo, conditioner, body lotion, soap, and body wash are provided onboard.)
Hair straightener or curler if you use one – You DO NOT NEED a hairdryer
Electric shaver if you use one

What to Wear on a River Cruise

How should i dress for a viking cruise.

Viking has a well-earned reputation for delivering an upscale river cruise experience. While this is undoubtedly true, many equate this with the need to dress up during the cruise.

Usually, this is not the case. While a certain level of dress is expected and always appreciated, on a Viking River Cruise, you will not find the need for formal wear as you might on a big cruise line.

How to Pack for a Cruise

To avoid overpacking for your cruise, choose clothing that will work for multiple combinations so you can mix and match outfits.

Start with a predominantly neutral color scheme -black, white, beige, tan, and grey. Depending on your style, you can highlight this with one or two pastels or brighter accent colors.

See our top five best women’s travel pants that are stylish, comfortable, and versatile – perfect for river cruising.

Lady modelling a pair of navy travel pants with red shoes and red T shirt.

Anatomie Skyler Travel Pant (use code GET15OFF for 15% off your order)

Cashmeren Crewneck Cardigan Sweater 100% Cashmere Button Front Long Sleeve Pullover for Women (Heather Grey, X-Small)

Cashmere Classic Cardigan

Women's Long Sleeve Striped T-Shirt Tee Shirt Tops Slim Fit Blouses (Medium, Black White)

Round Neck Stripe T

Woman standing by a window wearing a blue T shirt and slate chino pants.

Bluffworks Travel Palma Chino Pants

See our guide to the must-have travel essentials for women for more travel packing list tips for ladies.

Cruise Packing Tips

If you are creating a packing list for a seven-day cruise, select five to seven tops to compliment three to four bottoms.
A brightly colored scarf, shawl, or jacket will give you additional options for each combination and can be used to dress up any outfit.
You may wish to choose one additional dressier outfit or elegant top to dress up one of your mix-and-match combinations.
You may want to increase this accordingly for each additional week you are traveling.

See the end of the article for a complete example river cruise packing list.

Man sitting on a window sill wearing chino pants and a plaid shirt.

Bluffworks Ascender 5 Pocket Travel Pants

Goodthreads Men’s Long-Sleeve Solid Oxford Shirt

Nautica Men's Classic Fit Short Sleeve Solid Soft Polo Shirt, Sunbaked Red Solid, Large

Nautica Men’s Classic Fit Polo Shirt

Levi's Men's Carrier Cargo Short, Cougar/Ripstop, 28

Levi’s Men’s Cargo Short

Always keep comfort in mind when choosing clothing for a cruise. Easy care, wrinkle-free, breathable fabrics are best.

Layer Your Outfits

Depending on the season and destination, the weather could be changeable from port to port. Layering is the best way to combat changeable conditions when traveling even from morning to night or when transiting in airports.

Allow for one heavier, windproof jacket, although leave overly bulky or heavy clothing at home. They can become cumbersome when on the move. You can find our top-rated women’s travel jackets and men’s travel jackets with hidden pockets here .

Pack some long-sleeved sweaters or cardigans as well as short and long-sleeved tops and shirts. This way, you can be warm in the cooler mornings and evenings and shed easy-to-carry layers as required during the day.

Scarves and Shawls

A nice scarf or pashmina is the perfect travel accessory for layering when it gets a little cool. It can also dress up an outfit for evenings.

A lightweight scarf also makes great layering for sun protection and as a shoulder and head cover for entering places of worship.

Woman wearing a blue scarf with a phone pocket.

Bluffworks Lightweight Travel Utility Scarf

Dalle Piane Cashmere Stole

Cruise Day Wear

True to the ethos of destination-focused cruising, you will have plenty of time ashore exploring independently or on one of the many included and optional shore excursions. So comfortable, casual wear will make up the majority of your wardrobe.

Comfortable trousers or jeans are best, or shorts or skirts are also appropriate if the weather calls for it.
Lightweight, breathable tops. Both long and short-sleeved.
A lightweight jacket or sweater for cooler weather. (a packable down puffy jacket is good for cold or winter weather)
Comfortable walking shoes.
Hat and sunglasses

Consider any places of worship you may be visiting where respectful dress is required. You may be denied entry if you are considered to be inappropriately dressed.

Another good reason to always carry a lightweight travel scarf .

Looking for practical and stylish travel wear?

Read our Buying Guide to the Best Pickpocket Proof Clothing for Travel .

We’ve put together a collection of the most stylish anti-theft hidden pocket clothing for travel for both men and women.

Tourists standing in an alleyway on a Viking River cruise excursion in Norway

Cruise Evening Wear

Except for a few evening experiences such as the ballet, an evening at the orchestra or opera, most evenings will be spent dining on board.

While the restaurants offer a fine dining experience, the dress code is optional. Of course, you may choose to dress up, but many passengers will opt for “elegant casual”. There are no “formal nights” on a river cruise.

For ladies – Dresses, skirts, or pants with a blouse or sweater are appropriate.

For men – Trousers and collared shirts are acceptable. Ties and jackets are a personal choice.

Look for easy-care, wrinkle-free dress shirts you can wash and not worry about ironing like this travel range from Bluffworks .

Woman sitting on a stool wearing a white blouse.

Bluffworks Wrinkle Free Azores Blouse

Man in a blue dress shirt leaning against a wall.

Bluffworks Wrinkle-Free Travel Zenith Dress Shirt

A river cruise schedule can be quite busy. So much so, some days will barely allow time to change before dinner.

Think about your mix and match. A smart dress shirt or polo can quickly dress up a casual look for men, and a lovely shawl and change of shoes can quickly transform a casual outfit for ladies.

There is no need to bring any fancy jewelry. It will only be something for you to worry about on the cruise.

Pack for the Conditions

Cold and Wet Weather

If you are cruising in the shoulder season or taking a winter river cruise, such as a Christmas market river cruise , you may want to prepare for cold and wet weather.

A pair of lightweight gloves and hat that can slip easily into your daypack or handbag.
A scarf or shawl is great for layering in minor changes in weather and a must if cruising in the winter months.
A lightweight rain jacket or quality rain poncho . Consider a jacket that can double as your day-to-day jacket for cooler days, or choose a waterproof jacket that will fold down for easy storage and carrying.
All river cruises offer complimentary umbrellas on board as just one of the thoughtful cruise accessories on offer . However, they are quite large, so they are not always ideal for taking out for a full day of sightseeing. A small, quality travel umbrella is perfect for keeping in your daypack or handbag, and you always have it in case of an unexpected downpour.

Our favourite travel accessories for wet weather.

totes Women's Reversible Rain Poncho, Black, One Size

Totes Women’s Reversible, Packable Travel Rain Poncho

The North Face Venture Jacket Men LG TNF Black

The North Face Venture Rain Jacket

totes Women’s Bucket Rain Hat

Hoke 8-Rib Mini Compact Pocket Umbrella. Windproof & Lightweight Travel Umbrella. UV Protection Parasol. (Yellow)

Windproof & Lightweight Folding Travel Umbrella.

Sun and Hot Weather

If cruising in the warmer months, don’t get caught without sun protection. There is nothing worse than a sunburn on your holiday.

Too many people forget about sun protection when sightseeing around cities and local attractions. Even in the shoulder seasons, the sun can be very harmful, so always be prepared with at least the basics.

Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses
Lightweight, long-sleeved shirts are perfect for hot sunny days. Collared shirts are always better.
A travel umbrella works equally as well as a sun parasol.
A lightweight travel scarf is great for additional sun protection on the neck and shoulders and comes in handy when visiting places of worship. They are also good if visiting dusty areas to cover your face.

Foldable and Packable Sun Hats for Travel

SunLily Women’s Roll-n-Go Sun Hat

Scala Women's Cotton Hat with Inner Drawstring and Upf 50+ Rating,Banana,One Size

Scala Women’s Packable Cotton Hat

Ultrafino Fedora Packable Foldable Panama Straw Hat Classic 7 1/4

Foldable & Packable Fedora Panama Straw Hat

Best Shoes for a River Cruise

Shoes take up the most room in our luggage and can sometimes add the most weight – See our tips on how to pack shoes to solve these issues. Especially when considering some men’s shoes. In saying that, consider carefully what shoes you will pack for a river cruise.

Comfortable Walking Shoes

While many consider cruising to be quite a relaxed or even sedentary way to travel, river cruises are quite the opposite. At each port, you will have numerous shore activities and excursions to choose from, including lots of free walking tours.

You will be doing a considerable amount of walking and even some easy-to-moderate hikes on some excursions.

Comfortable walking shoes will be very important. Also, choose shoes with a good grip. Walking around Europe on the cobblestones can sometimes be perilous, especially in the wet.

See our guide to the best travel sneakers for comfy, grippy, cobblestone-proof footwear.

Forsake Davos Mid - Men's Waterproof Premium Leather Mid-Top (10.5 M US, Toffee)

Forsake Davos Mid Men’s Waterproof Outdoor Sneaker Boot

Product shot of a navy blue Allbirds travel sneaker.

Allbirds Men’s Risers Sneakers

Skechers Men's Relaxed Fit-Creston-Moseco Moccasin, Navy, 7 M US

Skechers Men’s Relaxed-Fit Memory Foam Slip-On Loafer

Thankfully today, you can find some very stylish, practical, and, more importantly, lightweight walking shoes on the market.

Tip: Break in your walking shoes before you leave on your cruise

ECCO Women’s Soft 7 Sneaker

Skechers Women's Go Walk Joy Walking Shoe, Navy/White, 8 US

Skechers Women’s Go Joy Walking Shoe

Product shot of a black and white travel sneaker.

Allbirds Women’s SuperLight Tree Runners

Additional Day and Evening Shoes

You may like to take a second pair of day shoes for around the ship that can transition to evening and one pair of dressier shoes for evening excursions.

We always like to take a pair of flip-flops or a similar comfortable sandal for relaxing in the cabin or making those quick trips to the snack and coffee station.

The bar on a viking river cruise. The bar is lines with fancy glasses and top shelf liquor

Fly – Cruise Tip

If taking a fly-cruise package and you have a long-haul flight before your cruise, consider wearing compression socks on the flight over. Swollen feet from flying are bad at the best of times.

On a river cruise, you will launch straight into tours and excursions; there would be nothing worse than squeezing swollen feet into shoes for a walking tour.

Personal Items, Adapters & Chargers

Toiletries and personal products.

Embarking on a river cruise grants you ample shore time to easily grab any toiletries you need along the way. With Viking River Cruises, skip packing basic toiletries like shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, soap, or body lotion—unless you have specific preferences.

They offer an exclusive, luxurious range by Freyja, supplied in generously sized, refillable bottles, sidestepping leaks and the burden of tiny containers. These premium products are replenished daily or upon request, ensuring you’re always catered to.

Plus, there’s a convenient onboard shop for any urgent needs.

Medications

Don’t forget any medicines you might need for the duration of your cruise, plus additional just in case of any delays.

Tip for Travelling with Medications

Check any travel advice for the countries you will be traveling to regarding prohibited medication lists . If your medication appears on a banned medications list for that country, ensure you have the appropriate paperwork and approvals before leaving home.

Additional Handy Toiletries We Recommend

Don’t forget to carry some hand sanitizer with you. We find the ones that clip to your bag are the best as you never leave them behind and are easy to access when needed.

PURELL Advanced Hand Sanitizer Variety Pack, Naturals and Refreshing Gel, 1 Fl Oz Travel Size Flip-Cap Bottle with Jelly Wrap Carrier (Pack of 8) - 3900-09-ECSC

Hand Sanitizer Travel Sized Pump Bottle

One of the less desirable aspects of travel is having to use public conveniences, something you will often do on a river cruise. We always keep some of these handy wipes in our bags. Whether at an airport or on a shore excursion, throw a few in your bag, and you will never get caught out.

Flushable, individually wrapped wipes for travel.

Adapters and Chargers

Travel Adapters

Viking longships have 110 / 220-volt outlets and USB ports in every cabin, so you shouldn’t need a power adapter unless you have hotel stays included in your cruise itinerary or either side of the cruise. (Not every cruise company will have this, so you should check in advance if cruising with a different company)

You will find power points next to the bed and near the desk, which will likely be ample for most travelers.

If you find you need more charging space for cameras, phones, or even a laptop, we recommend bringing a power strip from your home country. We always travel with one, just in case.

Cruise Excursion Tip

Bring your headphones – I find the earpieces issued with the audio devices for tours very uncomfortable and difficult to attach to my ear.

I have found the plug-in headphones you would typically use with your smartphone are compatible with the audio devices on board. They are much more comfortable to wear for long periods and produce better sound.

【2 Pack】 ZDAGO Aux Earbuds/Earphones, 3.5mm Wired Headphones Noise Isolating Earphones Volume Control & Built-in Microphone Compatible with iPhone/Android/MP3/MP4/Pad.

Generic Premium Earbuds/Headphones with Stereo Mic & Remote Control for Smartphones

Charging Bank

A quality, fast charging bank is great for travel days and essential for full-day shore excursions, especially for anyone who uses their phone as their primary camera. They are not expensive and can be a lifesaver when you really need that bit of extra battery.

DANDELION Travel Adapter Outlet Adapter Traveler Accessory Universal Wall Charger 2 USB Ports (UK, USA, AU, Europe, Asia) International Power Plug Adaptor for Multiple Socket Type C, A, I, G (Gold)

Dandelion Travel Adapter with 2 USB Ports

Belkin 3-Outlet USB Surge Protector, Rotating Plug (918 Joules)

Power strip with 3 AC Outlets, 2 USB Ports

Anker PowerCore 10000 Portable Charger, One of The Smallest and Lightest 10000mAh Power Bank, Ultra-Compact Battery Pack, High-Speed Charging Technology Phone Charger for iPhone, Samsung and More.

The Smallest and Lightest High-Speed Power Bank

Do You Have All Your Chargers and Cords?

Always do a final check of all your devices, cameras, and electronic equipment to make sure you have all the right cords, batteries, and chargers. You may not be able to get a replacement should you forget one.

People walking down a shopping esplanade with a church steeple in the background and diners eating alfresco along the way.

15 Practical Fashion Tips For A Scenic River Cruise

Are you gearing up for a picturesque river cruise and wondering what to pack? Look no further! We've got you covered! Scenic is a river cruise line famous for fun and luxurious experiences. Packing might be a difficult task, especially if it's your first time going on a cruise. Here are 15 practical fashion tips to ensure you look chic and comfortable while exploring stunning waterways.

Panaprium is proud to be 100% independent, free of any influence, and not sponsored. We carefully handpick products from brands we trust. Thank you so much for buying something through our link, as we may earn a commission that supports us.

The Scenic dress code is a casual one.

Sometimes they host special events and the best thing to do is to look on their website for more information about the dress code for these special occasions.

In general, you can start packing with comfort in mind because that's the most important factor that will allow you to have a fantastic time.

Walking shoes

We often disregard the importance of shoes when it comes to our outfits. Don't make this mistake when going on a cruise!

You need walking shoes that will allow you to feel comfortable the whole time. If you pack any fancy outfits, you need a pair of dress shoes as well.

Otherwise, focus on feeling good and choose comfortable and waterproof flat shoes. Luckily, you can now purchase affordable and ethical shoes made from vegan materials. To keep your feet cool and comfortable during long days of walking and exploring, have a look at our selection of the best affordable and sustainable shoes made in Canada.

Dress in layers

Layers in your clothes can help you look like a fashion pro.

This is also extremely practical because layers can easily be removed and put back on whenever needed.

Whether you add a shirt on top of a T-shirt, or a jacket on top of a cardigan on top of a tank top, dressing in layers will help you be fashionable and stay cozy.

Breathable materials

High-quality materials can make all the difference!

Never purchase clothes that are made from poor-quality materials, no matter how much you like the design.

This will save you a lot of money because poor-quality materials are unhealthy, uncomfortable, and don't last you a long time. If you want to be a conscious consumer and always make the right choice when it comes to your clothes, read this article and learn our best tips to check the fabric quality of clothing.

Waterproof jacket

Never go on a cruise without bringing a waterproof jacket. You can easily find such a jacket for every season. Wear it with a pair of jeans and a tank top combination, or over a dress.

Be prepared for unexpected showers! Here are the 10 best affordable and sustainable waterproof jackets.

A high-quality pair of jeans is always a great investment in your wardrobe. You can wear jeans in a wide variety of beautiful combinations.

Thankfully, nowadays you can easily find jeans that are both affordable and sustainable.

Don't forget to check out our recommendations.

Leggings are stylish and comfortable. They show your interest in an active lifestyle and they pair well with your favorite tops and blouses.

If you love prioritizing comfort when it comes to your outfits, do not hesitate to pack leggings.

Discover the 14 best affordable workout leggings with side pockets.

We recommend you pack a bag or backpack for your small belongings.

A crossbody bag is another practical choice that leaves your hands free for taking photos and exploring. This is a great way to keep a few small items with you at all times without worrying about losing them.

For more fashion inspiration, have a look at the 15 best affordable vegan leather bags and purses.

Dinner attire

As mentioned above, Scenic has a relaxed dress code. This means that you can wear formal attire if you want to, but it is completely optional.

If you want to look cute without being over the top, choose a beautiful midi dress.

Here are 20 cute and cheap summer dresses that come from ethical brands.

Slip dresses are extremely versatile.

They can be dressed up or down depending on your preferences and they can easily be layered with other clothing items.

A slip dress is something you can't go wrong with, and yours can be both affordable and sustainable!

Tank tops are wardrobe essentials that every woman should own. They can serve both as garments and undergarments and they will never go out of fashion.

Craft a cozy outfit in no time with a tank top and a pair of jeans or pants.

Let yourself be inspired by our selection of sustainable tank tops.

Ideal for layering, cardigans are must-haves that you can enjoy all year round, including during summer mornings and evenings when it gets chilly.

Enhance your style with one of these beautiful and eco-friendly cardigans.

Don't forget to pack cute and comfortable pajamas made from sustainable and organic materials.

Choose a design you love and soft materials that are gentle with your skin.

Check out the 25 best affordable and sustainable pajamas in 2024.

Socks can help you feel your best. Again, choosing the right material is the most important thing to do!

To help you look and feel great, we have compiled a list of the 20 best affordable, sustainable, and organic socks.

Scarves are beautiful accessories that can help you enhance your style and stay warm.

A colorful scarf can be the pop of color a monochrome outfit needs. Use your scarf to accessorize your casual cruise outfits.

You can wear scarves to accessorize on many other occasions, such as going out with your friends, running errands, and even work.

Choose a timeless, stylish, and versatile scarf from a sustainable brand. If you like this article, share it with your friends!

Was this article helpful to you? Please tell us what you liked or didn't like in the comments below.

About the Author: Miruna Dulcea

Miruna Dulcea has a science degree in Physics. She enjoys learning foreign languages and has so far lived and worked in four countries across Europe. Apart from her interest in science, she has a passion for fragrance and loves animals and art in all forms. - "Writing is a binder that breaks physical, temporal, and cultural boundaries and connects people everywhere, and that is the powerful fuel that motivates me to express myself with this form of communication. It is about both learning and sharing."

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What I Packed For a European WINTER River Cruise (Essentials, Clothes and More)

Heading off on a winter river cruise? How exciting! I’ve just got back from a river cruise in Germany.

To make sure you have everything you need (and nothing you don’t.) Here is a streamlined guide to packing for your winter adventure .

Emma Cruises at the Christmas Markets in Cologne

My Christmas cruise T-shirt is from here.

Quick Climate Check

Expect chilly days and colder nights. Temperatures can dip below freezing, so pack clothes to help keep you warm. It’s always best to expect rain too, either a drizzle or a downpour!

Clothing Essentials

Long or short-sleeved, whichever you prefer. I bought 1 for every day of the cruise.

One or two good-quality, waterproof coats. Waterproof is the key word here!
4-5 pairs of Trousers/Pants or jeans – balance warmth with comfort.
2 or 3 outfits for any special dinners. River cruises are usually relaxed, but it’s nice to dress up occasionally.

A couple of sets for a cosy, good night’s sleep. On most river cruises your room will be cleaned once per day, if you put ‘do not disturb’ on the door they won’t come in, but it’s easy to forget and always best to have some pyjamas to wear when in the room.
Enough for a week – with extra socks in case they get wet.

Atrium on Tui Skyla river cruise, decorated for Christmas.

Waterproof and comfortable for market wanders. The streets will be cobbled so grip is important!
Casual shoes for on the ship. I bought just two pairs of shoes and it was perfect. Indoor shoes and outdoor shoes!

If you are concerned about slipping on the snow and Ice when walking around Christmas markets, you can buy handy “traction cleats” that easily slip over your own shoes/boots.

They are very easy to put on and take off, and give you added peace of mind that you won’t have a nasty accident when you are on your cruise. Nobody wants to worry about that…

Find the ones I use here:

Yaktrax Walk Traction Cleats for Walking on Snow and Ice (1 Pair), Medium

Accessories

Hat, gloves, scarf – don’t leave the ship without them!
Stay dry during those winter showers. If you are sailing on a premium river cruise ship, you may find that they supply umbrellas – so it is worth checking. That will then be one less thing for you to pack…
One of my favourite things about river cruising is that you can just head to a shop if you feel like it and you can fill your bag with snacks or drinks. There no security to go through on river ships.

The brand of bags I’ve used for the last 7 or so years, and the one you’ll see in every post is Mia Tui .

I bought my first Mia Tui bag in 2017 and I've not used another brand since. They come with me on every cruise and are FANTASTIC. They are beautiful, almost indestructible and have so many pockets and useful parts.

Practical Bits

Handy for public restrooms. Lots of the public toilets in Europe charge 50 cents or a euro.
Pack a few small favourites for when you’re peckish or for if the dining area is closed. There isn’t a lot of food on river ships between meal times.
Capture every Christmas light! Extra batteries are a must in the cold because they run down quickly.

Tech and Entertainment

For all your gadgets. I usually bring a portable charger too.
For those cosy, quiet moments onboard. On some river cruises there can be a lot of time to relax, so make sure you have things to fill your time.
If you do have to work while onboard, bring your laptop. Most river cruises have free WiFi and if you have internet included in your phone plan you may be able to hot spot off your phone. This means you use your phones internet on the laptop and it doesn’t cost you any extra.

Health and Personal Items

Essentials for just in case. If you are in doubt about if you need something medication-wise, bring it. You’ll never regret it!
Include moisturisers to combat the dry winter air.
Passport, insurance, credit cards, and some local currency.

For a full list of suggested first-aid items and medications to bring along, read the article below:

Staying Healthy When You Cruise, Avoiding Seasickness – Medications and First Aid Items to Pack

Packing Smart

Compression bags or packing cubes will help you fit more into your case, and make unpacking once you arrive easier.
Coordinated clothing means more outfits with fewer items to pack.
If there is a laundry available it’s good to know about it. You can wash a few items if necessary and it might stop you from packing all those “just in case” things that you will probably never need.
I like to wash a few small items in the sink and dry them in the bathroom. I usually use a travel wash like the below:

Watch me test out the best packing cubes on the market in the video below. I would never consider travelling without using mine…

Spoiler alert, the winning brand was Mia Tui. Use code ‘EMMACRUISES’ for 15% off!

Don’t Worry!

If you need to buy an extra hat or some other forgotten item, it is easy to do!

Don’t worry that you have forgotten anything essential. The beauty of river cruising is that you will be docked in the centre of towns and cities , and you can easily pop to the shops.

Essentials For Any Cruise

There are certain things you must pack on any cruise holiday. Make sure you have your:

Credit Cards
Travel Insurance details

Before You Go

Find out about things you might want to organise before your ocean or river cruise here:

Planning And Packing For Your Cruise, Things to Organise in Advance, Packing Essentials And More

Make sure you haven’t forgotten any essential paperwork with my comprehensive list in the article below:

Cruise Paperwork! Make Sure You Don’t Forget Essential Paperwork, or You Won’t Be Sailing Anywhere…

Free Insiders Cruise Line Guide

Ever wondered how the mainstream cruise lines compare? Cruise lines won’t tell you this, but I will.

This FREE guide shows you everything you need to know to find your perfect cruise line.

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What to Wear on a Viking River Cruise: The Ultimate Guide

What to Wear on a Viking River Cruise

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

The good news is that there’s no need to overthink it. Dressing for a Viking river cruise is all about comfort and practicality. You’ll be spending a lot of time outdoors, so you’ll want to wear clothes that are weather-appropriate and easy to move around in.

In this article, we’ll take a look at what to wear on a Viking river cruise, from day to evening. We’ll also provide some tips on packing and dressing for different weather conditions.

So whether you’re planning your first Viking river cruise or you’re just looking for some outfit inspiration, read on for all the information you need!

What to Wear on a Viking River Cruise in Summer

When packing for a Viking river cruise in summer, it’s important to keep in mind the weather conditions you’ll likely encounter. The climate in Europe can vary greatly from one region to the next, so it’s important to do some research on the specific destinations you’ll be visiting before you start packing.

In general, you can expect mild to warm weather in most European river cruise destinations during the summer months. The average temperature in the summer ranges from 65F to 80F, with highs of 85F or more possible in some areas. However, there can be some significant variations in temperature from day to night, so it’s important to pack layers that you can easily remove or add as needed.

Dress for Comfort

The most important thing to remember when packing for a Viking river cruise in summer is to dress for comfort. You’ll be doing a lot of walking, so you’ll want to wear shoes that are comfortable and supportive. Sneakers or sandals are a good option, as they’ll allow your feet to breathe and prevent blisters.

You’ll also want to pack lightweight, breathable clothing that will keep you cool and comfortable in the warm weather. Cotton, linen, and other natural fabrics are ideal for summer weather. Avoid wearing dark colors, as they will absorb heat and make you feel hotter.

Pack for Sun Protection

The sun can be very strong in Europe during the summer months, so it’s important to pack sun protection. A hat with a wide brim, sunglasses, and sunscreen are essential items for any summer vacation. You may also want to pack a scarf or light jacket that you can wear to protect yourself from the sun when it’s at its strongest.

Dress for the Occasion

When packing for a Viking river cruise in summer, it’s also important to consider the dress code for the different activities you’ll be doing. For example, you’ll want to dress more formally for dinners in the ship’s dining room than you would for a day of sightseeing.

In general, you can’t go wrong with dressing in a casual, stylish way. A pair of khakis or jeans, a button-down shirt or blouse, and a pair of sandals or loafers are all good options for day-to-day wear. For more formal occasions, you may want to pack a dress or suit.

Here’s a Sample Packing List for a Viking River Cruise in Summer

Comfortable shoes (for walking)
Sneakers or sandals
Hat with a wide brim
Scarf or light jacket
Lightweight, breathable clothing
Cotton, linen, and other natural fabrics
Avoid dark colors
Dress for the occasion
Casual, stylish clothes
Khakis or jeans
Button-down shirt or blouse
Sandals or loafers
Dress or suit

What to Wear on a Viking River Cruise in Winter

When packing for a Viking river cruise in winter, it’s important to keep in mind the weather conditions you’ll likely encounter. The climate in Europe can vary greatly from one region to the next, so it’s important to do some research on the specific destinations you’ll be visiting before you start packing.

In general, you can expect cold weather in most European river cruise destinations during the winter months. The average temperature in the winter ranges from 35F to 50F, with lows of 25F or below possible in some areas. However, there can be some significant variations in temperature from day to night, so it’s important to pack layers that you can easily remove or add as needed.

The most important thing to remember when packing for a Viking river cruise in winter is to dress for comfort. You’ll be doing a lot of walking, so you’ll want to wear shoes that are comfortable and supportive. Boots or waterproof shoes are a good option, as they’ll keep your feet warm and dry.

You’ll also want to pack warm, weather-resistant clothing that will keep you warm in the cold weather. Wool, fleece, and other synthetic fabrics are ideal for winter weather. Avoid wearing cotton, as it will absorb moisture and make you feel colder.

Pack for Cold Weather

In addition to warm clothing, you’ll also want to pack some items to help you stay warm in the cold weather. A hat, scarf, and gloves are essential items for any winter vacation. You may also want to pack a warm coat or jacket, a sweater, and a pair of thermal underwear.

When packing for a Viking river cruise in

3. Packing Tips for a Viking River Cruise

When packing for a Viking river cruise, it is important to be prepared for a variety of weather conditions. You can expect to experience sunny days, cool nights, and even rain or snow, depending on the time of year you travel.

Here are a few packing tips to help you stay comfortable and stylish on your Viking river cruise:

Layers are key. Pack a variety of lightweight layers that you can easily add or remove as needed. For example, a long-sleeved shirt, a sweater, and a light jacket or coat will keep you warm on chilly days. You may also want to pack a scarf or pashmina to keep your neck and shoulders warm.
Comfortable shoes. You will be doing a lot of walking on your Viking river cruise, so make sure to pack comfortable shoes that you can wear for extended periods of time. Sneakers or walking shoes are a good option.
Dressy clothes for evening. Most Viking river cruises include at least one formal night, so you will need to pack a dressy outfit. A cocktail dress or a suit will do the trick.
Swimsuit and cover-up. If your Viking river cruise includes stops at swimming beaches, you will want to pack a swimsuit and a cover-up.
Other essentials. Other items you may want to pack include a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, a camera, a guidebook, and a journal.

For more detailed packing lists, be sure to check with your specific Viking river cruise line.

4. Clothing Options for Specific Activities on a Viking River Cruise

In addition to the general packing tips listed above, there are a few specific clothing items that you may want to pack for specific activities on your Viking river cruise.

For sightseeing: You will want to dress comfortably for sightseeing, so pack a pair of comfortable shoes, a long-sleeved shirt, and a sweater or jacket. If you are visiting a religious site, you may also want to pack a scarf or pashmina to cover your shoulders.
For shore excursions: For shore excursions, you will want to pack clothes that are appropriate for the activity you are doing. For example, if you are going on a hike, you will want to pack hiking boots, pants, and a long-sleeved shirt. If you are going on a biking tour, you will want to pack biking shorts, a cycling jersey, and a helmet.
For evening: For evening, you will want to dress up a bit. A cocktail dress or a suit will do the trick. If you are attending a formal night, you will want to dress even more formally.

Here is a more detailed list of clothing options for specific activities on a Viking river cruise:

Sightseeing:
Comfortable shoes
Long-sleeved shirt
Sweater or jacket
Scarf or pashmina (for religious sites)
Shore excursions:
Hiking boots or shoes
Water bottle
Biking tours:
Bike shorts
Cycling jersey
Cocktail dress or suit
Dressy shoes
Purse or clutch
Formal night:
Tuxedo or evening gown
Dress shoes

By following these packing tips, you can ensure that you are comfortable and stylish on your Viking river cruise.

What should I wear on a Viking River Cruise?

When packing for a Viking River Cruise, it is important to consider the climate of the region you will be visiting, as well as the activities you plan to participate in. In general, you will want to pack a variety of lightweight layers that can be easily added or removed as needed. For cooler weather, pack pants, skirts, dresses, and tops made from breathable fabrics such as cotton, linen, or wool. For warmer weather, opt for lightweight dresses, skirts, shorts, and tops made from natural fibers such as cotton and linen. You will also want to pack a few sweaters or cardigans for cooler evenings, as well as a waterproof jacket or raincoat for rainy days.

What shoes should I wear on a Viking River Cruise?

The best shoes for a Viking River Cruise are comfortable, waterproof, and versatile. You will want to have a pair of shoes that you can wear all day long, whether you are exploring a new city, walking through a museum, or taking a hike. Some good options include walking shoes, sneakers, or sandals. You may also want to pack a pair of flip-flops or slippers for wearing around the ship.

What accessories should I bring on a Viking River Cruise?

In addition to your clothing and shoes, you will also want to pack a few accessories for your Viking River Cruise. Some essential items include a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, a camera, a guidebook, and a power adapter. You may also want to pack a small day bag or purse for carrying your essentials.

What other tips do you have for packing for a Viking River Cruise?

Here are a few additional tips for packing for a Viking River Cruise:

Pack light. You will be doing a lot of walking on your cruise, so you don’t want to be weighed down by heavy luggage.
Layer your clothing. The weather can change quickly on a river cruise, so it is important to be able to add or remove layers as needed.
Pack comfortable shoes. You will be doing a lot of walking on your cruise, so it is important to have comfortable shoes that you can wear all day long.
Pack a waterproof jacket or raincoat. It is always possible to get caught in a rain shower on a river cruise, so it is important to have a waterproof jacket or raincoat on hand.
Pack a hat and sunglasses. The sun can be strong on a river cruise, so it is important to protect your skin and eyes.
Pack a camera. You will want to capture all of the amazing sights and experiences on your cruise.
Pack a guidebook. A guidebook can help you learn about the history and culture of the places you visit on your cruise.
Pack a power adapter. You may need a power adapter to use your electronic devices on the ship.

By following these tips, you can ensure that you are properly prepared for your Viking River Cruise.

there are a few key things to keep in mind when packing for a Viking river cruise. First, dress in layers so that you can adjust to the changing temperatures throughout the day. Second, choose comfortable shoes that you can walk in for long periods of time. Third, pack versatile clothing that can be dressed up or down for different occasions. And finally, don’t forget to bring your camera to capture all of the amazing sights you’ll see on your cruise!

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What to Wear on a Rhine River Cruise in the Summer

Cruise , Europe Packing List , Packing Lists , Travel Packing Lists

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European river cruising is extremely popular right now. Taking a trip this summer? We’ve got advice and tips on what to wear on a Rhine River cruise.

What to Wear on a Rhine River Cruise

Written By: Kerstin Lühe

So you booked that river cruise you’ve always dreamed of and now you’re wondering about what to pack and wear? No worries, we’ve got your back.

Depending on which cruise you’re taking, it could be taking you from Amsterdam all the way down to Basel, Switzerland within four or more days. What you usually do is take day trips along the way and explore the cities on land during the day.

Start by reading these general tips for packing for a cruise:

10-Step Guide to Packing for Any Trip
What to Pack for a Cruise Vacation
What’s in My Carry-on Bag for a 2-Week Cruise
What to Pack on a Cruise: 7 Things to Bring and What to Leave Behind
Understanding the Cruise Dress Code
10 Unexpected Things You’ll Experience on a Cruise

No matter when you’re traveling to Amsterdam , this guide gives you a packing list for every season!

The weather

Summer is a hot time in this region, with temperatures varying between 77-90°F. But watch out: summers on the Rhine can give you anything, including days full of sunshine, rainy days, cold days or sometimes plain old fashioned cloudy days.

Always check the weather forecast before your trip. Once you’ve researched the weather, you can focus on creating a travel capsule wardrobe , which should easily fit in a carryon suitcase with the help of packing cubes to compress your clothing.

Be prepared for everything!

Start by reading these general tips on packing for summer travel:

Capsule Wardrobe for Summer
Top Summer Dresses Perfect for Europe
Lightweight Jackets for Easy Layers
Best Walking Shoes for Europe’s Cobblestone Streets

Rails Thea Tie Hem Shirt

Dress Code in General

When choosing what to wear on a Rhine River cruise, avoid surprises by researching online to find out your ship’s dress code before you go.

Most cruise ships allow casual attire, but that doesn’t mean you can walk around with just a bikini (unless you’re on the sundeck or around the pool). When you’re moving around the decks, be sure to wear at least shorts or summer pants and a shirt .

Read this to learn what to wear for casual and formal cruise attire , as well as resortwear!

Ipanema Lenny Desire Flip-Flop

The days on the boat

Most cruise ships have several decks, including a sundeck on the roof. On the sundeck you can, of course, tan in the sun with your bikini or swimsuit and a nice pair of flip-flops .

Traveling to a hot weather destination? Take a look at the 11 beach sandals our readers rave about!

Billabong Forever Yours Dress

On the other decks, during warm days choose a summer dress or lightweight summer pants or shorts and a shirt or a top. The summer dress can be in bright and bold colors and it doesn’t matter if it’s short or long–whatever you like!

Daily Ritual Denim Cutoff Short

If you choose shorts , wear denim as they match anything.

These stylish summer shorts for women will take you from day to night, city to sea, and so much more!

Levi Strauss & Co Modern Skinny Jeans

On chilly days choose long pants with a light sweater to keep you warm. When planning what to wear on a Rhine River cruise, your favorite skinny jeans are absolutely fine.

Find out why we love these lightweight jackets for summer travel!

Miraclesuit Crossover One Piece

Some cruise ships have a spa area and a sauna. In Germany , it’s customary to use the sauna nude; if you feel uncomfortable, have a spa wrap with you! But wearing swimwear is an absolute no-go in the sauna.

In the spa area it’s ok to walk around in a bikini or a swimsuit with a towel draped around you.

Here are the 23 best one-piece swimsuits of the season!

In the Restaurant

In the restaurant, people dress a bit nicer; smart casual attire is fine. It can mean white summer pants and a nice blouse or top or a summer dress. However, avoid overly sexy outfits, as this is regarded as distasteful in a restaurant.

A good option is skinny jeans and something fancy like a tank top with chiffon or with lace details.

Read this post for some stylish dresses that you can wear on and off the sand!

Simlu Open Front Cardigan

Evenings might be chilly on the decks, as the wind will feel colder than during the day. A good choice for what to wear on a Rhine River cruise is something warmer over your top or dress, like a sweater or a cardigan .

Leith Ruched Sheath Dress | Sizes XXS-XL and Sizes 1X-4X Plus

On warm evenings wear something for wows, like a little black dress .

Read these tips on how to avoid a boring all-black wardrobe when you travel!

Uniqlo Rayon White Blouse

Usually there will be an evening with a captain’s reception; smart casual is perfect for those. It can be a black skirt or skinny jeans with a white blouse , which looks elegant. Black flats are perfect!

Tory Burch Minnie Ballet Flats

Don’t bring any evening gowns, you’ll feel overdressed.

These are the cutest and most comfortable ballet flats for travel!

Day trips take place in some of the cities along the way. There will be lots of walking, so wear comfortable shoes like sneakers or loafers –anything you feel you can walk a few miles in.

Clarks Women’s Ashland Bubble Slip-On

Also: leave your high heels on the boat as some old towns still have cobblestones–a real high heel breaker!

Looking for comfortable and cute walking shoes for travel? Our readers share their top 20 brands!

Old Navy Linen Blend Pull-On

Wear comfortable and lightweight pants, like linen pants or skinny jeans. You can also wear shorts, a skirt, or a dress if the weather fits.

Summers are hot and humid in Germany, so be sure to wear something lightweight. Don’t forget sunglasses and sunscreen!

Linen clothing is perfect for summer and warm weather travel. Take a look at our list!

Rebecca Minkoff Julian Black Backpack

For carrying your personal belongings, wear a shoulder bag or light backpack in which you can stow your personal items like a camera and your wallet. And yes: bring an umbrella , it can rain anytime!

These are 12 gorgeously-designed backpacks for travel ; one of them may be your new favorite travel companion!

Cruise Essentials

VeBrellen Luxury Sunglasses

These are an absolute must on a river cruise. The water is reflecting the sun and it can sometimes be blinding to enjoy the view. Make sure you protect your eyes with a good pair of sunglasses .

Find out the benefits of polarized sunglasses plus our top 11 picks!

Sarong Black Tile Print

When planning what to wear on a Rhine River cruise or any cruise, people often forget to consider the wind. The boat is moving and on the Rhine River it can be windy all day long, which can make you feel a bit chilly. Especially in the evenings!

You can transform the right scarf into a sarong , a towel, a dress for the sundeck, or even a quick handbag with some knots!

Here are some of the many ways you can use a beach sarong wrap on your next trip!

Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Sunscreen

Even though it’s breezy, if you don’t watch out, you’ll have a sunburn faster than you like! On the boat you always have the sun shining on your skin, so wear sunscreen at all times.

Read these 5 after-sun skincare tips to help you rejuvenate dull, dry skin!

Travel Tip!

There’s a festival called “Rhein in Flammen” (Rhine in flames) that takes place along the Rhine River on 5 different dates in different cities.

You’ll see fireworks on both sides of the river, lighting up the shores! You can watch them while you’re cruising up or down the river on the ship. It’s really nice to sit on the deck and watch fireworks for hours.

So if you like fireworks, make sure you’re booking a cruise that visits this festival!

What are your tips for what to wear on a Rhine River cruise? Share you thoughts below!

For more cruise packing tips, please read:

What to Pack for the Bahamas
What to Pack for a Mediterranean Cruise
What to Pack for Alaska Cruise
What to Wear on a Cruise to the South Pacific
Caribbean Cruise Wear Essentials

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We hope you liked this post on what to wear on a Rhine River cruise in the summer. Please share with your friends on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest. Thanks for reading!

Author Bio: Kerstin is a freelance copywriter and dive instructor from Germany and has spent the last three years chasing the sun in Asia, North America, and South America. She loves diving, has a sweet tooth, and is currently working on her copywriting business.

Always helpful information in these blog posts! I have taken so many of your suggestions to heart and use them on every trip, including our upcoming Fall Rhine river cruise. I’ve learned to use a packing checklist, winnow my choices to just 3 shoes, how to pack toiletries, and more! Thank you so much for all of these suggestions which help make our travels so much easier and less stressful.

I recently went on a river cruise in France. Your blog was very helpful! Thanks!

Thank you for this helpful information! We are cruising from Amsterdam to Basel in 2 months time, with a few extra days planned in Amsterdam and Paris! First time travelling to Europe from Canada so we are trying to soak up as much information as possible.

We just returned from a river cruise. It was supposed to be from Amsterdam to Basal but due to the low river levels on the Rhine it was changed to an inner Netherlands waterway cruise. We did get to stay on the ship but the ports and excursions were different than what we expected. I packed several dresses and one pair of nice sandals that could be worn with my dresses on the ship. For the excursions, I wore tennis shoes, shorts, and shirts to be comfortable since we walked an average of 18,000 steps a day. Some days we didn’t have time to change clothes after the excursions and that was fine. Dinners weren’t a formal affair but it was nice to freshen up after a long day of walking in the heat of the city.

We are hopefully river cruising Brussels to Amsterdam April 2023. This is so helpful! and a great place to start from. I am really working towards packing thinking carry on but I expect we won’t end up doing that. Just gives me more room for treats/treasures to bring back home!

We are hopefully river cruising Amsterdam to Basel May 2022. Our deposit is in. This is sohelpful! Thank you! I am really working towards packing only carryon!

How exciting Marian!!! Hope you have the most amazing time on your future travels! ?

These are the perfect clothes for my next travel. Thank you

Thanks Camay!

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COMMENTS

What to Wear on a River Cruise in Europe (+ Packing List!)
Tide pods - Put a couple of Tide pods in a Ziploc bag to use at the onboard as there is a laundry on Viking river cruise ships (or you can use a couple of the travel laundry sheets mentioned above!) Travel umbrella. Compression socks for the long flight to Europe. Refillable water bottle. Travel coffee mug.
River cruise packing list: What to pack when traveling by riverboat
Related: Cruise packing list: The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise. Casual clothes for day and night. River cruises involve full days of touring on land, so casual and comfortable clothing is key. Cargo pants or shorts are a great idea on a river cruise, especially for the popular cycling and walking excursions.
What to Wear on a River Cruise in Europe (+ Packing List)
What to Wear on European River Cruise in Fall. Similar to cruising in Spring, doing a river cruise in Fall can have extremely changeable and wet weather. Therefore it is always a good idea to take water proof and water proof clothing, a good umbrella and plenty of lightweight layers with you.
What to Pack for a European River Cruise for All Seasons
J. Jill Wearever Smooth-Fit Slim-Leg Pants | Sizes XS-4X Regular, Petite & Tall. Pants for a Spring and Summer European River Cruise . For pants, opt for a comfortable pair that still looks nice, is versatile enough to wear with different tops, and easily transitions from day to night.
What to Pack for a River Cruise in Europe
Here's everything you need to know about packing for a river cruise in Europe: 1. Suitcase and Travel Bags For a River Cruise in Europe. What You'll Need: Each person should plan on one suitcase ...
Women's Capsule Wardrobe for a River Cruise Vacation
Make sure all your clothes co-ordinate so they can be mixed and matched. Remember you will need an outfit to travel in! Wear your bulkiest clothes and shoes where possible. Download our complete packing list below for all quantities and a checklist of items. Also see our River Cruise Capsule Wardrobe for Men.
What to Wear on a River Cruise in Europe
A river cruise event on the quay, late afternoon. Activewear such as sports leggings, t-shirts, sweatshirts and baseball caps are also acceptable for day wear, especially if you are planning to take part in any activities or use the onboard fitness centre. During the day, smart shorts are acceptable, especially in warm weather during the summer ...
Europe River Cruise Packing: What to Wear on a River Cruise
1-2 cropped cardigans or sweaters. 1 set of pajamas. 4-5 pairs of socks (including compression socks for the plane) (I don't wear socks with all my shoes; if you do, then pack more!) 10 underwear (including my favorite ExOfficio bikini briefs) 3 bras. 1 pair of moisture-wicking shorts to wear under dresses.
What To Wear On A European River Cruise
What To Pack For A European River Cruise. In this cruise packing guide, we share our European river cruise packing tips. This includes cruise essentials and things to consider when traveling to Europe - particularly for Americans. Part of this advice includes what not to bring to Europe as well. Included are tips on cruise clothing and outfits.
Packing Essentials For a River Cruise
Since weather can be unpredictable, I always recommend a rain jacket. 1 bra and 2 sports bras as well as a shirt to sleep in. Bottoms: Jeans. Leggings (theseare my favorite for travel, and I've tested quite a few). Depending on the weather you might want bringing a pair of shorts or an additional pair of pants.
What Clothes to Pack for a River Cruise Vacation
Choosing the right clothes (and fitting them into your luggage) is a pre-trip chore most travelers dread. The good news: When deciding what to pack for a river cruise vacation, if you follow a few easy rules you should be ready to face any situation - from a walk beneath the rain-splashed Dutch windmills of Kinderdijk to an elegant evening at the opera in Vienna.
What to Wear on a River Cruise in Europe and USA
Almost every river cruise line gives passengers slippers to wear in their cabin so you can leave yours at home. Wear the slippers to the pool and leave your flip-flops at home. A casual dress code makes packing for a river cruise, whether in Europe or the USA very easy. Leave the dressy clothes at home.
Packing List for a European River Cruise
Clothing. Color-coordinated layers for smart-casual day wear are the solution for a European river boat packing list. Jackets and sweaters that can be peeled off as the day heats up or cools off ...
River Cruise Dress Codes: What To Pack?
The AmaWaterways dress code suggests country club casual on-board their ships, such as cotton or linen clothes. This could include trousers and shirt for men - without the need for a tie or jacket - and dresses or trousers with a blouse for women. During the Captain's Dinner, guests are advised to dress up a little more in suits and ...
How to create a capsule wardrobe for river cruises (with outfit
How to put together capsule wardrobe river cruise outfits. The keys to putting together any capsule wardrobe is "pack less wear more" as in, pack fewer things but be able to wear them in several styles and outfits. Therefore for putting together a river cruise capsule wardrobe we recommend. Choosing a color palette and sticking to it as ...
Viking River Cruise Packing List and Cruise Packing Tips (2024)
When you set sail on a Viking river cruise, smart packing matters. Remember your essentials: a change of clothes, basic toiletries, and vital medications in your carry-on bag. Having the best wheeled underseat luggage helps you travel light and keeps you prepared for emergencies on your Viking river cruise.
What I Pack When I River Cruise, What About You?
These are limited to travel-sized containers that are 3.4 ounces (100 milliliters) or less per item. If you need something larger than that, buy it in Europe. Clothing Essentials. On most river cruises, no formal wear is needed. Think casual, thin, layers, and only a few pairs of shoes.
15 Practical Fashion Tips For A Scenic River Cruise
Packing might be a difficult task, especially if it's your first time going on a cruise. Here are 15 practical fashion tips to ensure you look chic and comfortable while exploring stunning waterways. Panaprium is proud to be 100% independent, free of any influence, and not sponsored. We carefully handpick products from brands we trust.
River Cruise Packing Tips & Checklist
According to Avalon Waterways' Packing For A River Cruise article, it is recommended to keep the color scheme simple. "When packing (or shopping) for your river cruise, choose shirts, pants, shorts and skirts that can be worn for multiple outfit combinations. The easiest way is to search for clothes with a simple color scheme - white ...
What I Packed For a European WINTER River Cruise (Essentials, Clothes
Waterproof is the key word here! Bottoms. 4-5 pairs of Trousers/Pants or jeans - balance warmth with comfort. Evening Wear. 2 or 3 outfits for any special dinners. River cruises are usually relaxed, but it's nice to dress up occasionally. Pyjamas. A couple of sets for a cosy, good night's sleep.
What to Wear on a River Cruise
Whether you're off on a Rhine river cruise, or one that takes you along the Rhône, Seine or Danube, daytime wear will be casual. Pack loose-fitting attire that's suitable for sightseeing and excursions ashore. Many cruise guests choose to wear clothes they feel relaxed in such as jeans, chinos, Capri pants, skirts or shorts while on a tour ...
What to Wear on a Viking River Cruise: The Ultimate Guide
A pair of khakis or jeans, a button-down shirt or blouse, and a pair of sandals or loafers are all good options for day-to-day wear. For more formal occasions, you may want to pack a dress or suit. Here's a Sample Packing List for a Viking River Cruise in Summer. Comfortable shoes (for walking) Sneakers or sandals.
What to Wear on a Rhine River Cruise in the Summer
The weather. Summer is a hot time in this region, with temperatures varying between 77-90°F. But watch out: summers on the Rhine can give you anything, including days full of sunshine, rainy days, cold days or sometimes plain old fashioned cloudy days. Always check the weather forecast before your trip.

What to Wear on a River Cruise in Europe (+ Packing List!)

What to Wear on a River Cruise in Europe

Types of European River Cruise Outfits

Dressing for the Season

Tips on How to Pack for a River Cruise

Viking River Cruise Packing List

River Cruise Clothes

River Cruise Essentials

Electronics

Questions on what to pack for river cruise in Europe?

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Cruise Packing Tips

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River cruise packing list: What to pack when traveling by riverboat

What to pack on a river cruise

Lightweight layers

Casual clothes for day and night

Accessories and travel gear

Tips for river cruise packing

River cruise packing list

Bottom line

Women’s Capsule Wardrobe for a River Cruise Vacation

Things to Consider

What to pack for a River Cruise

Casual Tops

Evening Top

Fleece or Light Sweater

Smart Cardigan or Jacket

Casual Trousers or Shorts

Smart-Casual Trousers

Skirt or Tailored Shorts

Pashmina or Scarf

Walking Shoes or Trainers

Deck Shoes or Sandals

Smart Heels

Packaway Jacket

What to Wear on a River Cruise in Europe

River Cruise Dress Code

What is Country Club Casual?

What to Wear on a River Cruise in Europe – Day Time

What to Wear on a River Cruise in Europe – Shore Excursions

What to Wear on a River Cruise – Evening

Common Questions about What to Wear on a River Cruise in Europe

Do river cruises have hair dryers?

What size luggage should you take on a river cruise?

Can you wear jeans on a river cruise?

What should I pack for a summer river cruise in Europe?

What should I pack for a winter river cruise in Europe?

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Amber Hoffman

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