7 day cruise wardrobe

7 day cruise packing list

In this 7 day Cruise packing list we cover the staples you need for every cruise no matter the destination. It covers what should always be in your cruise carry on, what you should wear on embarkation day and of course what other things should always be in your suitcase.

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. 

Note : It is worth pointing out that while this 7 day cruise packing list covers ALL your cruise staples that should be on any packing list, it is worth also checking out some of our destination specific packing lists as these will cover temperature and location specific dress codes.

Our specific location packing lists for cruises include:

• What to wear on a South Pacific Cruise
• What to wear on a European River Cruise
• How to make a river cruise capsule wardrobe
• World Cruise Packing List.
• What to wear on a Caribbean Cruise

Table of Contents

How many outfits should I pack for a 7-day cruise?

Before we create out 7 day cruise packing list we thought it would be worth talking you through how many outfits your should pack for a 7 day cruise.

Firstly you will obviously need an outfit a day, or create a cruise capsule wardrobe where you can use items multiple times.

Personally I will also take a fresh top for every day especially for warm weather locations, but may use shorts or trousers on 2 or more occasions to reduce the amount of clothes I need to pack.

The next thing that affects how many outfits you need for a cruise is how often you intend to use the main dining room and how many formal nights there are on your cruise.

Cruise dining rooms usually have a smart casual dress code and you will find most people usually change for dinner.

I usually try and have lots of day to night transition pieces such as a smart casual blouse or nice Maxi dress, that I can wear to dinner one night and then use during the day the next day. This helps reduce the amount of clothes you take with you.

Now depending on the cruise line you are on will depend on how many formal nights you will have (Formal nights are where you Dress for dinner in formal attire think cocktail dresses for ladies and tuxedos for men).

Cunard for instance is one of the more formal cruise lines which will have more formal dinners in the main dining room.

Norwegian Cruise Line on the other hand does not have any formal nights, and is famed for this. This is because they have freestyle dining and don’t like to constrain people in what they wear when at dinner. However this doesn’t mean you can’t dress formally for dinner.

And finally the last thing that will dictate how many outfits you need to pack for a 7 day cruise is whether or not you plan to do laundry on your cruise. If you plan on doing laundry then you probably only need to 3 day and 2 night outfits.

Going on a 14 day cruise? Then check our our 14 day cruise packing list. And for a shorter cruise check out our 4 day cruise packing list and our 5 day cruise packing list .

What do I need to pack for a 7 day cruise?

So now you know roughly how many outfits you will need on a 7 day cruise we turn our attention to everything you need to pack for a cruise no matter the destination

Passport   and identification

Needed to be in your embarkation day carry on as is required for boarding.

Documentation including Covid 19 related paperwork

Again needed in your hand luggage

Many people find a lanyard the best way to keep their cabin key safe and on them at all times on a cruise. The best ones are waterproof so can be used on shore excursions where you will be spending a lot of time in the water and can also be sued to keep small amounts of cash and a government issued id. 

Click here to shop the best lanyards for cruise travel.

Pack any meds you need in your carry on and be sure to have prescriptions with you.

As well as prescription medication some other medications you may like to travel with include:

• pain medications such as Advil, paracetamol, Tylenol and Ibuprofen 
• Reflux Meds such as Gaviscon, Tums etc. 
• Birth Control

Sea sickness medication or bands

I personally have never gotten sea sick on a cruise ship. And I have never met anyone who has either and we have sailed through some really rough seas. 

However if you are concerned about sea sickness be sure to pack some meds with you just in case.

Although most ships provide toiletries I will always pack some on my own as I think they are better quality than those you get on board

For more information on the best toiletries to bring on a cruise check out this post.

Toothbrush and toothpaste

Although toiletries are usually provided you will need to bring your own tooth brush and toothpaste.

It is important to be sun safe whereever in the world you are cruising. This is usually available onboard but will cost you a premium if you wait and buy on board.

The contrast between the nice weather on a warm weather cruise with the cruise ship air conditioning is the perfect recipe for dry lips. 

We always recommend packing lip balm that has an SPF so your lips are protected when on beach excursions etc.

Whenever I get on a cruise ship I first like to head to the main dining room for lunch, and then I like to have either a dip in the pool or a soak in the hot tub. I do this whether I am a hot weather or cold weather cruise.

If you are going to a hot weather destination however you will want to pack at least 2 swimsuits with you so you can wear one and dry one.

Beach cover

Great for in port and on deck. I would pack 2 if you are in hot weather destinations.

Sunglasses 

Useful for in ports but also on sea days when the sun can be dazzling.

Useful for those spending lots of time out on the deck.

Now I don’t like to bring too much jewelry with me on cruises as I don’t wear it on shore excursions. However if you want to bring some with you for formal nights be sure to take in your carry on and put in your safe once in your stateroom.

The best thing about cruises are the ports you get to visit. You definitely will want to capture your memories with a camera.

Most new ships will have USB charging ports next to the bed however this is by no means on all ships. Don’t get caught out and take a charger with you and a spare cable.

Travel Adaptor

Depending on where you are from, who you are sailing with and where you may need to take a travel adaptor with you to ensure that all your electronics will work.

What to pack for a 7 day cruise (Optional)

Only needed if you plan to use the gym on board your cruise ship.

Depending on the line you are on, you will be permitted to Bring on board a small amount of alcohol – usually just champagne or wine.

If you are allowed to bring alcohol on board we recommend using your allowance as this will be cheaper than drinks on the ship.

Note  – wondering if you  can bring a corkscrew on a cruise ship  – check out this post for more information.

What to wear on a 7 Day Cruise

Formal Outfits (2 outfits)

This is either a cocktail dress or pant suit for women or tux for men. If you don’t mind rewearing an outfit then you could definitely get away with packing just one formal outfit

Smart Casual Outfits (3- 4 outfits )

I usually pack 3-4 smart casual outfits. All items in this category will be interchangeable as a capsule wardrobe and I may partner a top from a dinner with different bottoms for a casual shore excursion look.

Casual Outfits (3-4 outfits )

Again, I pack a cruise capsule wardrobe where everything is interchangeable. This will normally be 3-4 t shirts and 2 bottoms i.e. shorts, jeans or chinos depending on the weather.

An essential whereever you are cruising as the air conditioning on ships can be fierce

One set for a week

Underwear (7 plus spares)

I will also have underwear enough for the cruise and a few spares.

Sample 7 cruise packing checklist

So now you know why we pack certain things for a cruise, here is a quick and handing 7 day cruise checklist.

• Passport and ID
• Documenation
• Toiletries including toothbrush, make up, hair accessories etc
• Swimwear (2 for hot weather)
• Beach cover (2 for hot weather cruises)
• 2 formal outfits
• 3-4 smart casual outfits
• 3-4casual outfits
• sandals or boots depending on weather
• travel adaptor

Have you been on a 7 day cruise? Is there anything else that you would normally take? Let us know in the comments.

Traveling Tulls

Eco-Travel in Retirement – Nature and Sustainable Luxury Travel

Packing List For a 7 Day Cruise in the Caribbean (free packing list)

A mid-winter getaway is a treat for New Englanders like me. Spending a week on a cruise ship sailing among Caribbean islands and you’ve made a snowbird’s dream come true. If you’re looking forward to a week in the Caribbean read on for my packing list for a 7-day cruise in the Caribbean.

So what will you need to bring for your Caribbean getaway? Nice outfits for evenings on board, beach/resort wear for days on the beach or by the pool, and perhaps some hiking gear if you anticipate adventures. And don’t forget the extras you’ll want to have in your cruise cabin and your beach bag. Can you travel light with all of this? Yes, check out these cruise packing tips and you’re on your way.

This post may contain affiliate links. We may earn a small fee if you purchase something from these links. Unless noted, TravelingTulls has not been given any of the products for review. DISCLOSURE

Table of Contents

What to Wear on a Caribbean Cruise

Free printable Caribbean cruise packing list below .

Research your cruise line before beginning to pack

(Actually, research the cruise line before you book your trip. Check out websites like Cruise Critic to ask questions of people who have sailed with the cruise line you’re considering.)

Cruise line’s dress code: Evening dress code requirements are usually listed on each company’s website. Check to see if there are formal nights on a 7-day Caribbean cruise. And if there are, how formal is ‘formal attire’? Cocktail dresses and tuxes? Alternately, is every night ‘country club casual’ or ‘elegant casual’, but not formal. These style names are great for the cruise line’s marketing but can be confusing for cruisers. Call the cruise line to check if you have questions.

Some examples of evening dress codes:

Royal Caribbean – There will be 1 or 2 formal nights on a 7-day cruise. Royal Caribbean asks that passengers dress in their “best black-tie look” – suits, tuxedos, evening gowns, or cocktail dresses. If you don’t want to pack formal wear, you can skip the main dining room on these nights and eat at an alternative restaurant. Note that tank tops are not ever allowed in the main dining room.

Princess Cruise Line – In cruises of 7 nights expect 1-2 formal nights. Women can wear nice pants, a dress, or skirt. Minimum requirements for men is dress slacks, dress shirt, and tie. Many will dress up more than that, but that’s the minimum standard. On most Princess cruises there are alternative restaurants for those who don’t want to pack formal wear.

Windstar Cruises – evening wear is defined as “casual elegance” or country club casual. In the specialty restaurants the dress code specifies no t-shirts, shorts, jeans, hats or flip-flops. In our experience, most dress for dinner in Amphora, the general dining room.

Anticipate what activities you’ll be doing in port

Before beginning your packing, think about your anticipated shore excursions.

Hiking ? Good footwear is a must! And wear a hat for sun protection.

Snorkeling or lounging at the beach ? Sun protection. The Caribbean sun is intense! You’ll be able to purchase sunscreen on the ship, but if you have sensitive skin and require a particular brand, bring it with you. Pack a rash guard or swim shirt if you’ll be spending a lot of time on the water. This can double as a top if you choose a simple one.

Shopping and enjoying the ports ? Make sure to bring a packable duffel bag for the trip home. You can put your dirty clothing in the duffel, check it, and carry your new items in you carry-on.

Suggestions for packing for a cruise in the Caribbean

Packing tips: carry-on if possible.

For many of us, a Caribbean cruise involves a flight, with all the usual luggage challenges. Pack carry-on only or at least pack one carry-on bag with 2-3 days of clothes (including one of your nicer outfits), and other first day of cruise essentials .

If you’re traveling with a friend or partner and checking bags, cross pack a few items in each bag. That way if one bag is lost, you’ll still have a few items available.

Wear your heaviest items on the plane. Carry, or wear, your lightweight rain jacket, a sweater, and your walking shoes.

Laundry services: Check the cruise website. Some ships have laundry rooms with self-serve washing machines and dryers, and some provide overnight delivery for a price. On our first cruise we hesitated to use the laundry service, but now we send out a bag if we’re traveling more than a week.

• Pack laundry packets to do any necessary sink washes.
• Choose clothing made from natural fibers, especially merino wool whenever possible. Merino wool is naturally odor resistant so you can wear it several times before washing.

Clothing guide for your Caribbean cruise

Caribbean cruises call for whites, pastels, and tropical prints. But you can certainly mix and match your at-home favorites to create your cruise capsule wardrobe. I’ll add a white shirt and capris to my usual navy and pink wardrobe and have lots of nautical looks for the week.

Do NOT pack something you’ve never worn before.. Feel free to add a few more colorful items and a bit of costume jewelry bling. An inexpensive reversible wrap skirt will extend your options too!

How to create a Capsule Wardrobe :

• Choose a base color (for a Caribbean cruise go with a light color, white or a soft neutral)
• Pick a top, bottom, and perhaps a dress in this color.
• Add print tops, or toppers, that are based on your chosen color
• Add another bottom – shorts, leggings, or skirt in a coordinating neutral.
• Add color and pattern with a few colorful scarves, accessories, and (for a cruise) a sundress.

Every item in your capsule should coordinate with everything else! And every item on your packing list should be lightweight and easy-care . Don’t forget a light sweater or jacket for over air-conditioned dining rooms.

Exercise gear is always a good idea. Sneakers, tee shirts, and shorts. There is usually a fitness room with an extraordinary view on every ship.

Packing for a Caribbean Cruise: Shoes

Shoes are always a challenge. Try to limit yourself to three pairs of shoes and make sure they all have rubber soles for safety on the ship’s deck. You’ll definitely need sandals (I prefer sports sandals like Tevas over flip flops), a nicer sandal for the main dining room, and perhaps comfortable walking shoes or sneakers. Water shoes may be useful if you’ll be snorkeling or tubing but I get by with my Tevas.

Note: many ships do not allow men to wear sandals in the dining rooms. Bring a casual shoe just in case.

Gear & Gadgets to Pack for Your Caribbean Cruise

• Camera or high-quality cell phone, and a waterproof phone case if you’ll be doing water activities.
• Chargers for all electronics and extra battery if you’re bring a camera.
• Power strip for the cruise cabin
• Portable external charger – great for the flight and on board the ship. (Any item with lithium batteries must be packed in carry-on)
• eReader – for the flight and sea days by the pool. eReaders are easier to read in sunlight than a cell phone or tablet.
• [optional] Binoculars – a lightweight pair of binoculars will be great for enjoying nature and birdwatching.
• [optional] Cruise lanyard for your cruise ID (on board the ship you charge items with your cruise ID card rather than to your credit cards) or Bandolier style phone case to carry your cruise card.
• [optional] Portable lock box for securing items on the pool deck or at the beach. This small pouch from Loctote will hold your cash, key card, and phone, and attaches to a lounge chair.

More essential items for your cruise vacation

• Passport and/or photo ID
• Travel documents and luggage tags
• Prescription medicines and basic over-the-counter medications
• Miscellaneous personal items- lip balm, cosmetics, toiletries
• Day pack – this might be a tote bag or your airline personal item . Just be sure it’s lightweight but large enough for beach towels.
• Nausea medicine – most modern ships are very stable, and all ships will have seasickness remedies on board. But if you’re concerned, pack an over-the-counter medication like Bonine . If you are particularly susceptible to seasickness, ask your doctor to prescribe a scopolamine patch.
• Sunscreen and/or other lotions for your skin type. Most ships will have a store offering toiletries and sun protection products, but if there’s something that works well for you, then include it in your packing.
• Sun hat – And at least one pair of sunglasses.
• Magnetic hooks are great for cruise cabins. Stick it to the door or wall to hang your cover-up or secure the daily bulletin.
• Reusable water bottle – Some cruise ships will supply water bottles for your shore excursion but prevent some plastic waste by bringing your own bottle to fill at a refill station. For more ideas on being an earthy-friendly traveler read: Sustainable Travel
• Lightweight rain jacket (which hopefully isn’t used!)
• Cleansing wipes, face masks, etc.

What I’m packing for my next 7-day cruise in the Caribbean (booked for January!)

This trip I am going to travel carry-on only for two weeks . Over the last few years I’ve invested in merino wool and multifunctional clothing which will help me save a lot of space (and aggravation!)

I am sailing on a Windstar ship so no formal wear required.

I plan on taking two bags, a small rolling carry-on that’ll go in the overhead bin on the flight, and a backpack as a personal item . I’ll pack my at-seat essentials in a small zipped case which I can take out once I’m settled on the plane.

In addition to the items shown in this graphic, I’ll pack an extra sleeveless top, a light sweater, workout wear (including 2 merino tees and bike shorts), pajamas, swim wear, and all the cruise essentials.

On the flight from wintry Massachusetts I’ll wear my Encircled dressy sweatpants , a long sleeve Wool& tunic, and a sweater or wrap.

The scarf and the tie-dye cape (both by Diane Kroe) can be used as swim cover-ups. As you can see from the graphic, the cape can also be worn as a skirt.

The two dresses, both merino wool by Wool& , can be styled in multiple ways but take up little room in my bag.

For more examples of capsule wardrobes I’ve packed read: 10 Piece Travel Capsules: what’s really in my bag

Download our printable complete cruise packing list for a 7 day cruise in the Caribbean

Do you have a favorite item you pack for luxury cruising? Share in comments below!

Amy, a writer on responsible bucket list travel, is your reliable source for insightful travel advice. With a career background in libraries, and a degree in biology and mathematics, Amy's approach to travel is rooted in meticulous research and planning, and her commitment to eco-conscious adventures.

Amy’s dedication to sustainable travel practices, including efficient packing techniques, ensures that every adventure leaves a positive impact on both the environment and the traveler's well-being. Trust Amy to guide you towards meaningful and eco-friendly travel, making the most of your retirement years.

A lifelong New England resident, Amy is also the source for insider tips on travel in the Northeastern U.S.

• Amy Tull https://travelingtulls.com/author/amy-travelingtulls/ 25 Tips to Conquer Travel Anxiety: How to Make Travel Easier (and almost stress-free!)
• Amy Tull https://travelingtulls.com/author/amy-travelingtulls/ Easy Elegance: 3 Capsule Wardrobe Templates for Travel Planning
• Amy Tull https://travelingtulls.com/author/amy-travelingtulls/ Navigating the Amazon and Caribbean with Viking: An Honest Review (2024)
• Amy Tull https://travelingtulls.com/author/amy-travelingtulls/ Elegance at Sea: An Authentic Viking Ocean Cruises Review

Amy Tull and Team

• Amy Tull and Team https://travelingtulls.com/author/gramma2chance/ Nature and Birding in Costa Rica: a World of Strange & Wonderful Beauty
• Amy Tull and Team https://travelingtulls.com/author/gramma2chance/ How to Survive a Long Flight: be comfortable even in Economy Seats (2024)
• Amy Tull and Team https://travelingtulls.com/author/gramma2chance/ Best Time to Travel to Machu Picchu, Peru: a traveler’s guide (2024)
• Amy Tull and Team https://travelingtulls.com/author/gramma2chance/ Undercover Birding: how to enjoy birdwatching while traveling with friends

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3 thoughts on “ Packing List For a 7 Day Cruise in the Caribbean (free packing list) ”

What is the blue and white dress that you also used as a top?

Hi Colleen, it’s called the origami from Diane Kroe. It’s a very versatile piece as you can see!

I loved your list for a more mature woman! Great advice!

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What to Wear on a Caribbean Cruise: 7 Day Packing List

Yay, you’re going on a Caribbean cruise! Or at least thinking about it. The next step in planning for your trip is deciding what to wear and what to pack. This guide to what to pack for a Caribbean cruise will break down what to wear to dinner, in port, to the pool, and for formal night. This guide will also share what essentials you cannot forget to pack and how to pack it all.

I love shopping for a Caribbean cruise because there’s something about flowy dresses, cute swimsuits, and resort wear that just makes me happy. On a cruise, you will wear up to three outfits per day from the port to the pool to dinner.

The key to packing for a Caribbean cruise is choosing pieces that can be worn between occasions. The below collages show how you can do this with some staple pieces. In addition, this guide will break down what the dress code is for these different occasions and what not to wear.

Keep reading for outfit ideas, a simple packing guide, and shoppable links. See my men’s packing guide here .

Some links on this blog are affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase through them. All opinions are my own, and I only recommend products and services I personally use and believe in. Thanks for your support!

Casual Cruise Port Outfit Ideas

For a port day, what you wear depends on what you plan to do. For a day of sightseeing or shopping in town, jeans or shorts and a shirt or a casual dress is a great way to be comfortable and fashionable.

For a beach or water excursion, I love wearing a one piece swimsuit with shorts. The one piece can act like a bodysuit, but is easy for water activities.

In addition to clothes, be sure to pack a simple crossbody bag and a beach bag for port days. Either of the above bags is great for storing your glasses, wallet, and phone for port days.

A big beach bag is great for sunscreen and towels for the beach or the pool on board.

Shop this casual Caribbean cruise clothing for port days

Cruise Pool Fashion for Women

For the pool, all you need is a few cute suits, sandals, and sunglasses. I recommend bring 2-3 suits so you can always have a dry option to wear.

I like wearing a one piece swimsuit with a pair of shorts so the swimsuit looks like a bodysuit to wear walking around the ship or into restaurants.

Shop this Caribbean cruise swimwear

What to Wear to Formal Night for Women

Finally, there is formal night! Many people avoid cruising because they’re intimidated by formal night. On Royal Caribbean , there are typically 2 formal nights during a 7 night cruise. If formal night isn’t your style, simply avoid the main dining room on those nights and disregard this section.

If you enjoy dressing up like me, keep reading for what to pack for a Caribbean cruise for formal night. As with casual dinner, you will see a wide range of outfits. Some people will be undressed in shorts and shirts, while others will be in black tie evening gowns.

I recommend wearing a midi or long dress with heels. Any of the above dresses are great options for a cruise formal night. Dress for formal night like you would dress for a summer wedding and you will surely fit in to the dress code.

Shop these Caribbean cruise dresses and formal night outfits ideas

Dinner Outfit Ideas for a Cruise

On a cruise, there will be formal nights and casual nights in the main dining room. On a casual night, you will see a wide variety of outfits. According to the dress code, swimwear and tank tops are not allowed. Some people will dress barely nice than this without any problem.

I recommend dressing up a bit more since the main dining room is a nice venue, plus it’s fun to look nice. One of my favorite things to wear to dinner on a cruise is a midi dress with sandals. This is an easy way to look dressy, but feel super comfortable. You can also wear nice jeans or a skirt with a blouse.

For shoes, I recommend a pair of cute sandals and a simple block heel that matches with all of your outfits.

Shop this cruise attire for ladies for dinner

Caribbean Cruise Outfit Ideas for Active Excursions

If you are planning any adventures in port such as horseback riding, an ATV tour, or ziplining, you will need some activewear. You may also want to bring athletic clothes if you plan to hit the ship’s gym.

For cruise activewear , I like packing matching sets or jumpsuits so I look put together while still functional. Be sure to check with your specific excursion if there are requirements such as long pants or close toed shoes.

Shop these cruise athetic outfits

Cruising T-Shirts

On boarding day of a cruise, you are guaranteed to see groups of friend and families wearing matching cruise shirts. If I’m being honest, these shirts tend to be a bit tacky, but are a great way to kick-off a group cruise.

In the above collage, I share some cruising shirts and sweatshirts that are actually cute. They are great to wear on the first day of a cruise, matching with your travel party, or as a gift for someone heading on a cruise.

Shop these cruise themed shirts and sweatshirts

What to Pack for a Caribbean Cruise – Other Essentials

In addition to all the outfit ideas shared above, don’t forget to pack these cruise essentials :

Sunscreen – The sun is intense, so protect yourself. Supergoop is my favorite for a lightweight formula and high SPF. Portable charger – There’s nothing worse than running out of battery when you are relying on your phone for navigation and photos. This portable charger with built in cords will help with that! Hat – A hat is another great way to protect yourself from the sun or hide crazy beach hair. Bug spray – Bug spray is a great item to have on hand for any jungle excursions. Good book – Don’t forget a book for the plane and poolside. People You Meet on Vacation is one of my favorite travel-inspired books that is an easy-read. Imodium – In case you have any stomach issues, you will thank yourself for having this on hand. Reusable water bottle – Bring a reusable water bottle to fill up on board to take with you on port days. Its great to have a reliable source of water throughout the day. Waterproof phone case – Pack a waterproof phone case so you can safely take photos on or in the water. Towel Clips – The pool deck gets very windy on sea days. These towel clips will keep your towel from blowing away.

Shop these essentials to pack for a cruise

7 Day Cruise Packing List

• Daytime outfits: 2-3 pairs of shorts, 4-5 tops, 1-2 casual dresses or rompers, 1-2 athletic matching sets
• Casual dinner: 5 casual dresses or jumpsuits
• Formal night: 2 formal dresses
• Swimwear: 3-4 swimsuits, 1-2 cover ups
• Pajamas, socks, underwear
• Heeled sandals
• All the above cruise essentials

Cruise Packing Tips

Now that you know what to pack for a 7 day Caribbean cruise, let’s talk about how to pack it. I recommend bringing one checked luggage per person and one backpack carry on.

When you arrive at the embarkation terminal, you will pass off your checked luggage to be delivered directly to your stateroom. From when you board the ship until staterooms are open (usually a few hours), you will only have access to what’s in your carry on.

I recommend keeping the following items in your carry on, then packing the rest in your suitcase.

• Wallet/Passport/Documents
• Hairbrush & Basic Makeup
• Simple Outfit for Dinner (in case your luggage isn’t delivered in time)

Typical Caribbean Cruise Weather

The average weather in the Caribbean during the winter months (December through February) is usually warm and dry, with temperatures around 80-85°F. The weather during this time of year does not vary much from one island to another.

If you are visiting during the winter, consider packing a light jacket or sweater to layer for night time.

During the summer months (June through August), temperatures tend to be a bit hotter and more humid, hovering around 90-95°F.

Caribbean storms are most likely to occur between June and November, so it is best to keep an eye on the forecast before planning any trips. Tropical cyclones also have a tendency to hit islands in this region during these months as well, so a rain coat is a good item to throw in your suitcase.

FAQ – Cruise Outfits and Packing Tips

Most Caribbean cruises are quite warm during the day and at night. However, if you’re traveling in the colder months of the year between December and March, it can become chilly at night. It’s a good idea to bring along a light jacket or sweater just in case you get cold. Other than that, expect temperatures in the high 70s (Fahrenheit) and sunny days all year round.

Yes, jeans are permitted in the main dining room on a cruise. I’d wear something a bit nicer for formal night though.

Some people love to get dressed up on a cruise. For women, this means a dress most night for dinner and a gown for formal night. However, some people prefer to stay casual for the trip.

Summary of What to Wear on Caribbean Cruise

Overall, you will likely wear 2-3 outfits per day depending on your schedule. Every day, you will need at least one outfit for the daytime and an outfit for dinner.

For your daytime outfit, you’ll likely need swimwear or activewear depending on what you have planned. If you are simply exploring port, a casual dress or shorts is a great outfit idea.

Dinnertime outfits will vary depending on if it’s formal night or casual. For formal night, break out your nicer dresses and heels. For a casual dinner, you can wear what you want, but I love a casual dress.

For more great cruise tips check out my guides to a Western Caribbean cruise and Southern Caribbean cruise.

Related Posts:

• Cruise Outfits For Men | What Should Men Wear On A Caribbean Cruise?
• Ultimate Royal Caribbean Southern Caribbean Cruise Guide And Itinerary
• Royal Caribbean Western Caribbean Cruise Tips And Itinerary

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Lauren is the creator of The Traveling Moore blog. She's travel obsessed, having been to nearly 50 countries and all 7 continents. She has a full time corporate job, and loves showing others that it's still possible to travel the world with limited PTO hours. Lauren is also travel hacking obsessed, finding every way to travel more often and more luxuriously.

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What To Pack For A 7 Day Cruise Vacation + Free Packing List

P lanning a 7 day cruise vacation and you’re feeling a tad overwhelmed by the packing process? Here’s what to pack plus a free printable packing list. This comprehensive and friendly guide is here to rescue you from any packing predicaments, ensuring you embark on your cruise fully prepared and in style.

Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or a first-timer, I’ve got you covered. I know that packing for a week-long cruise can be a bit of a puzzle—balancing practicality with fashion, anticipating diverse weather conditions, and ensuring you have all the essentials to make your voyage seamless and memorable. After taking more than two dozen cruises, I have compiled my top cruise packing tips to help you stress less.

From assembling the perfect cruise capsule wardrobe to packing those must-have accessories, discover the ideal balance of comfortable and chic attire for leisurely days on deck and exciting shore excursions. Get ready to dine like royalty on those formal nights with outfits that exude elegance and grace.

Embarking on a 7-day cruise vacation is a thrilling and unforgettable experience. Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or a first-time adventurer, packing efficiently and thoughtfully can make all the difference in ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey. Plus, I’ve included a free packing list to assist you in organizing your essentials and ensuring nothing is left behind. So, get ready to set sail with confidence and embark on a hassle-free cruise adventure filled with relaxation, exploration, and unforgettable memories.

In this article, we’ll cover everything from clothing and footwear essentials to must-have accessories, toiletries, and electronics. We’ll also share tips on how to pack efficiently and maximize your suitcase space, as well as highlight important considerations specific to cruise vacations. With our expert advice and handy packing list, you’ll be well-equipped to navigate any situation, whether lounging poolside, exploring exotic ports of call, or indulging in the exciting onboard activities.

So, take notes or download our free packing list, as we dive into the essentials you need to pack for a fabulous 7-day cruise vacation. Get ready to sail away in style and create memories to last a lifetime!

Essential Packing Guide for a 7-Day Cruise Adventure

As you prepare for your adventure, it’s crucial to pack strategically to ensure you have everything you need for a comfortable and enjoyable journey. Keep in mind cruise ship cabins can be small, so try to not overpack.  In this packing guide, we’ll provide you with a comprehensive list of essential items to bring along on your week-long cruise.

• Clothing: Consider both daytime activities and evening events on the ship. To cover all your bases, include:
• Swimwear: Pack a few swimsuits and cover-ups for relaxing poolside or on the sun-kissed beaches.
• Casual daytime attire: Lightweight and comfortable clothing like shorts, t-shirts, sundresses, and breathable fabrics are ideal for exploring the ship and participating in daytime activities.
• Formal Wear: Depending on the cruise line, you may have formal or semi-formal nights. Plan accordingly and bring a few dressier outfits such as cocktail dresses, button-down dress shirts, or suits.
• Outerwear: Carry a light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings on deck or when exploring ports of call. If visiting a rainy area, a windbreaker, poncho or raincoat is a must.
• Footwear : Choosing the right footwear is essential for any cruise. I recommend at least three pairs of shoes. Consider the following options:
• Comfortable walking shoes: Bring sturdy and comfortable shoes for exploring ports of call or taking part in on-board activities.
• Sandals or Flip-flops: Ideal for lounging by the pool or on the beach.
• Dress shoes: If you plan to attend formal dinners or semi-formal events, pack appropriate footwear to match your evening attire.
• Accessories : Don’t forget these items:
• Sun protection: Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed sun hat to shield yourself from harmful rays.
• Day or beach bag: A small backpack or tote bag for carrying essentials during shore excursions.
• Waterproof phone case: Protect your phone during water-based activities or unexpected rain showers.
• Travel adapter: Ensure you can charge your electronic devices without any issues if traveling internationally.
• Cell phone charger
• Toiletries and Medications: While most cruise ships provide basic toiletries, it’s advisable to pack your own. Now most cruise lines just offer refillable pumps with shampoo, conditioner and body wash and not individual small bottles. Remember to bring:
• Toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss.
• Shampoo, conditioner, and body wash, unless you are okay with the ones provided by the cruise line.
• Deodorant and other personal hygiene products
• Haircare products and styling tools.
• Prescription medications, contact lenses and a basic first aid kit.
• Seasickness medication, if necessary.
• Electronics and Entertainment: To stay connected and entertained during your cruise, consider packing:
• Portable Chargers: Keep your devices powered up, especially during long shore excursions.
• E-reader or Books: Relax by the pool or on your cabin’s balcony with a good read.
• Headphones or airpods: Enjoy your favorite music or movies while on the go.
• Miscellaneous essentials: Don’t forget these additional items!
• Travel Documents: Carry your passport, identification, cruise documents, and any necessary visas. You will need your photo ID to board the ship every time you go to ports of call.
• Cash and credit cards: Ensure you have enough money for onboard expenses and shore excursions.
• Reusable Water Bottle : Stay hydrated during your cruise and reduce plastic waste.
• Snacks: Pack some non-perishable snacks for day trips or late-night cravings.

Pro tip: check the cruise line’s website

It’s always a great idea to check the cruise line’s dress code on their official website. Also make sure to read what is allowed onboard. Many cruise lines limit the use of certain appliances, like steamers or high potency hair dryers.

Packing for a 7-day cruise requires a balance between practicality and style. With this comprehensive packing guide, you’ll have everything you need to enjoy your cruise to the fullest. Remember to consider the destination’s climate, cruise line dress codes, and your personal preferences when selecting your wardrobe and accessories. 

If you prefer to pack light and use the laundry facilities, bring along laundry detergent or pods.

Should I take a carry-on plus a larger suitcase on my cruise vacation?

Taking both a carry-on suitcase and a bigger bag for your 7-day cruise is a good idea. It can be a smart and practical choice. Here’s why:

1. Convenience and efficiency:  Bringing a carry-on bag allows you to have all your essential items easily accessible during your embarkation day. You can keep important documents, medications, a change of clothes, a bathing suit, and and any valuable items close at hand. This ensures you won’t have to rummage through a larger suitcase to find what you need when you first board the ship. Plus, it can take hours for your luggage to be delivered to your stateroom.

2. Avoiding baggage delays:  Due to various reasons, checked luggage might be delayed in reaching your cabin. By carrying your essentials in a carry-on, you won’t be left without vital items like medications, a swimsuit for the pool, or an outfit for dinner if your larger suitcase takes longer to be delivered to your stateroom.

3. Easy packing for the first day:  On the first day of your cruise, you might want to hit the pool, explore the ship, or even dine at a casual restaurant. Having a carry-on with a change of clothes allows you to freshen up quickly and start enjoying the ship’s amenities without waiting for your larger suitcase to arrive.

4. Keeping valuables safe:  If you plan to bring valuable items like electronics, cameras, designer bags or expensive jewelry, you might prefer to keep them in your carry-on rather than checking them in with your larger suitcase.

5. Easy disembarkation:  On the last night of your cruise, you’ll need to pack up and leave your bigger suitcases outside your cabin. Having a carry-on allows you to keep your essentials with you until it’s time to leave the ship, making the departure process smoother.

In summary, bringing both a carry-on and a larger suitcase provides you with the convenience of having essential items readily available and the practicality of having extra storage space during the cruise. It ensures a stress-free embarkation, smooth exploration of ports, and a comfortable disembarkation, making your cruise vacation even more enjoyable.

7 Day Cruise Packing List

What cruise essentials should you pack? Here is a comprehensive cruise packing list to ensure you have everything you need for your fabulous 7-night cruise:

• Casual outfits (shorts, t-shirts, sundresses) for daytime explorations.
• Elegant attire (formal outfit) for formal nights and themed parties.
• Comfortable walking shoes for shore excursions.
• Dressy shoes for evenings.
• Flip flops or waterproof sandals
• Swimwear and cover-ups for poolside lounging and beach days.
• Light jacket, windbreaker, denim jacket or shawl for cooler evenings or air-conditioned spaces.
• Undergarments and socks.
• Small or crossbody handbag

Sun Protection and Accessories:

• Wide-brimmed hat to shield from the sun.
• Sunglasses with UV protection.
• Sunscreen (high SPF) to protect your skin. I prefer reef-safe sunscreen to avoid harming marine wildlife.
• Aloe vera gel or after-sun lotion for soothing sun-kissed skin.
• Scarf or sarong for versatile use
• Rash guard if you use one.

Formal Night Glam:

• Formal dresses or gowns.
• Tuxedo or suits with dress shirts and ties.
• Dress shoes or a pair of sandals to complement formal attire.
• Evening clutch or small handbag.

Cruise Documents and Essentials:

• Passport and necessary visas.
• Cruise tickets and boarding passes.
• Travel insurance details.
• Credit/debit cards and some cash (check the cruise’s currency policy).
• Photocopies of important documents (keep separate from originals).
• Lanyard or pouch for keeping cruise ID card handy.
• Cruise itinerary and any pre-booked excursion vouchers.

Medications and Toiletries:

• Prescription medications in their original containers with prescription attached.
• Over-the-counter pain relievers, motion sickness medication, etc.
• Small first-aid kit with adhesive bandages, antiseptic wipes, antibiotics ointment, tweezers, etc.
• Toiletries (shampoo, conditioner, body wash, deodorant) – consider travel-sized versions.
• Toothbrush, toothpaste, and dental floss.
• Contact lenses, case and cleaning solution.
• Razor and shaving cream.
• Moisturizer and lip balm.
• Hairbrush or comb.

Bags and excursion essentials:

• Sturdy beach bag, day bag or backpack for shore excursions.
• Refillable water bottle.
• Camera or smartphone for photos and videos.
• Foldable tote or shopping bag for carrying souvenirs back to the ship.

Tech and Entertainment:

• Camera or smartphone with a good camera for capturing memories.
• Power bank or charger for electronics.
• E-reader or books for leisurely moments.
• Power strip to charge electronics in case of limited outlets
• Phone sun shield or cover

Themed party accessories:

• Some cruises have white parties or pirate night events, so bring appropriate attire for those festivities.

Remember, this packing list can be adjusted based on your cruise destination, weather conditions, and personal preferences. Check with your cruise line for any specific dress code requirements or amenities provided on board to avoid unnecessary items. You can also download my free printable packing checklist.

Should I use packing cubes?

Packing cubes can be incredibly helpful when packing for a cruise. Here’s why:

1. Organized packing:  Packing cubes help you keep your belongings neat and organized in your suitcase or travel bag. You can use different cubes for various categories, such as clothes, toiletries, accessories, etc. This makes it easier to find what you need without rummaging through your entire luggage.

2. Maximizing space:  Cruises often have limited cabin space, and packing cubes can help you maximize every inch. By compressing your clothes and other items in the cubes, you can create more space in your suitcase and keep everything tidy.

3. Easy unpacking:  When you arrive at your cruise cabin, you can simply place the packing cubes directly in the drawers or shelves provided. Unpacking becomes a breeze as you don’t need to take out each individual item and can quickly settle into your cozy abode.

4. Seamless transfers:  If you’re extending your cruise with a land-based stay or exploring multiple destinations, packing cubes make transitioning between accommodations much smoother. No more clothes strewn all over the place—just grab the cubes you need and pop them into your new room.

5. Keeping things separate:  Packing cubes help you keep clean clothes separate from dirty laundry. Some packing cubes come with separate compartments or laundry bags for this purpose, ensuring you don’t mix up your fresh outfits with used ones.

6. Staying organized throughout the cruise:  As you’ll be packing and unpacking at different ports of call during shore excursions, having your belongings organized in packing cubes will make the process faster and more convenient.

7. Family packing made easier:  If you’re cruising with family or friends, each member can have their own set of packing cubes, making it simpler to keep everyone’s belongings separate and easily identifiable.

Overall, packing cubes are a fantastic travel accessory that can save you time, stress, and space. They add an element of order and efficiency to your packing routine, ensuring you make the most of your cruise experience without worrying about the state of your suitcase. 

Do I need to pack beach towels?

No, pool towels are provided aboard. However, if you plan on doing shore excursions to public beaches at ports of call, you will need to bring a towel from the cruise ship. Depending on the cruise line, they will give you a towel as you debark but you must bring it back. If the cruise stops at a private island, beach towels will be provided free of charge.

Can I take a steamer on my cruise?

The policies regarding bringing a steamer on a cruise can vary depending on the cruise line and ship. Generally, most cruise lines have restrictions on bringing steamers or irons onboard due to safety concerns. These appliances can pose fire hazards and are often prohibited to maintain a safe environment on the ship.

Instead of a steamer, you can consider other alternatives to address wrinkled clothing during your cruise. Here are a few options:

• Wrinkle-Release Spray: Pack a wrinkle-release spray , which can help smooth out minor wrinkles from your clothing. Simply spray it on your garment and gently tug or smooth the fabric to remove the wrinkles.
• Downy Wrinkle Releaser Plus : This is another convenient option. It is a spray-on fabric relaxer that helps release wrinkles from clothes. Similar to the wrinkle-release spray, simply spray it on the garment and smooth out the wrinkles.
• Ship Laundry Service: Most cruise ships offer laundry services where you can have your clothes professionally laundered and pressed. This can be a convenient option, especially for formal attire.

It’s always recommended to check with your specific cruise line or consult their website for the most up-to-date information regarding their policies on steamers or irons. They may provide alternative options or offer additional services to assist with garment care during your cruise.

More travel tips

• What to pack in your travel makeup bag
• 11 Cruise Tips To Help You Have The Best Vacation Ever
• What To Wear On The Disney Wish
• Top Tips To Plan Your Next Disney Cruise
• 7 Things You’ll Love About The Harmony Of The Seas Cruise Ship

The post What To Pack For A 7 Day Cruise Vacation + Free Packing List by Jeannette Kaplun appeared first on Hispana Global .

What to Pack for a Caribbean Cruise Packing List and Guide

What to pack for a Caribbean cruise? Right off the bat, toss a swimsuit, flip-flops, sunscreen, a sun hat, and lightweight clothing in your suitcase. These basics will get you through days of lounging on the cruise’s pool deck and enjoying the beautiful beaches of the Caribbean.

Don’t forget the swimsuit as we did during our first Southern Caribbean cruise over 20 years ago. We wasted time at the ports finding one that worked for him.

Cruises to the Caribbean are some of our top favorite cruise itineraries. We just returned from one and have others planned in the near future. Not only are  Caribbean cruises more accessible from US ports, but they can also be the perfect 7—to 10-day cruise itinerary. With the warm temperatures, the beautiful islands with pristine beaches, and the incredible views, it’s the ultimate getaway from everyday life.

This is your go-to guide for packing for a Caribbean cruise: from wardrobe essentials to must-have items, complete with a handy printable checklist.

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning we earn a commission at no extra cost. Please refer to our  full disclosure  for details.

Over the years, we’ve compiled a Caribbean cruise packing list that includes everything you need for your vacation, from what to wear to what cruise items not to miss. We’ve included a printable checklist below to help you pack.

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Table of Contents

What to Pack for a Caribbean Cruise List

Packing for a Caribbean cruise is, in my opinion, so much easier than packing over other travel destinations. It’s a casual vacation in warm client that requires you to pack less of the bulky clothing and more of the lightweight, breezy attire. Which, ultimately, ends up meaning that you take up less space in your suitcase so you can fit fun things like a snorkel set.

Wardrobe for a Caribbean Cruise

What to wear for a Caribbean cruise? Focus on the basics: lightweight and breathable clothing, comfortable footwear, and swimwear for a relaxing by the pool and beach. Create a capsule wardrobe with versatile pieces that can be mixed and matched.

Capsule Wardrobe: A capsule wardrobe is a collection of essential, versatile clothing items that can be mixed and matched to create a variety of outfits.

While not listed, don’t forget to bring undergarments and socks.

No cruise is complete without a swimsuit. Bring at least two sets per cruiser. This way, you have options, and while one is hanging to dry after use, you can use the other set for your next adventures. Bring the ones you are comfortable wearing.

A cover-up is essential for a Caribbean cruise. It’s your perfect companion for seamlessly moving from the pool to the ship’s corridors, exploring port towns, or relaxing on the beach. Choose one that matches your swimwear and is easy to wear, keeping you effortlessly stylish while respecting the cruise’s dress code .

Rashguards and Swimshirts

Rashguards and swimshirts protect from the sun’s intense rays while enjoying water activities. You may think you don’t need one, but by the third day of a cruise, when you’re hitting the beach under the hot Caribbean sun, you wonder why you didn’t bring one.

I experienced this recently while cruising on Virgin Voyages in the Caribbean. By the time we reached our last port, I was burnt and wished I hadn’t left my rashguard at home to go snorkeling. Hubby had his Amazon essential swimshirts , which have been reliable for years.

Flip Flops and Sandals

No beach vacation is complete without a pair of flip-flops or sandals. I like to bring both. The flip-flops are great for the beach, and a nice pair of sandals that work well with the rest of my wardrobe can be worn for dinner and throughout the ship.

Reefs and Tevas are too great brands to look at.

A pair of shades is a must when vacationing in the Caribbean. If you don’t need prescription sunglasses to see, we always recommend buying a cheap pair of stylish sunglasses that offer UV protection for the beach. If you lose them, you won’t be too heartbroken.

We talk a lot about sun protection because the sun is a beast in the Caribbean. A sun hat is another layer of protection for your scalp, face, and eyes.

Enjoying a day on the beach during our time in the Puerto Plata cruise port on our most recent Caribbean cruise.

Water Shoes

Water shoes are great to have on hand. Of course, whether you need them depends on the destination and the planned excursions . Not all beaches are white and sandy. There can be excursions where water shoes may be the footwear you need. Do a little research. They do not take up much room if you want to bring them.

I prefer and own these water shoes that fit like lightweight sneakers. Hubby likes his Speedos .

Short Sleeves and Tanks

Don’t think too much about it. Pack some comfortable short-sleeved tees, button-downs, polos, and tank tops. Aim for at least one shirt or tank top a day.

Bring at least two pairs of shorts to wear on and off the cruise ship. You won’t want to wear jeans or long pants in the hot Caribbean. Just note that some cruise ship dining rooms do not allow shorts for men, even nice shorts.  (I don’t make the rules).

I like to wear shorts made of lightweight fabrics. They are breathable and easier to dry if you need to do a quick hand wash in the sink.

Lightweight Pants

Bring 1 or 2 pairs of lightweight pants that are comfortable and fit in with your wardrobe. We recommend sticking to khakis or linen pants, anything that is breathable for that Caribbean humid air.

Summer Dresses

• Author note: For example, I own the dresses shown above in different colors and love them.

Ladies, pack summer dresses. For a 7-day Caribbean cruise, I’d aim for at least 4-5 summer dresses because you will probably live in them throughout your Caribbean cruise vacation. I know, I do. They are perfect for spending the day on the ship and going to dinner; some may even pass for a chic night. You’ll probably re-wear one or two of them.

Light Outerwear Layer

I’m the kind of person who never leaves my house without that one layering piece. Pack one light jacket, cardigan, or sweater as part of your wardrobe that will match with everything. Especially if you’re traveling off-season, when the weather can be unpredictable, you’ll be happy to have it and use it as a layer.

Formal Night Outfit s

• Author note: I own the maxi dress above. It’s one of my favorite dresses.

Most mainstream cruise lines no longer enforce strict formal attire and ask that you dress up a little. Keep it simple but chic and classy for a chic night on a Caribbean cruise.

Women:  Maxi dresses, smart casual dresses, linen sets,   or elegant jumpsuits are excellent choices for chic nights on a Caribbean cruise. Pair them with stylish sandals or wedges and accessorize with statement jewelry to elevate your look.

Men:  For a classy yet relaxed ensemble, opt for smart dress pants or khakis paired with a crisp button-down shirt and linen blazer. Complete the look with a nice pair of shoes.

Related Reads: Women’s Cruise Wardrobe Guide Men’s Cruise Wardrobe Guide

Comfortable Shoes and/or Sneakers

As you lay out your cruise outfits, consider the shoes you’ll bring aside from flip-flops and sandals. Will you need a pair of sneakers? Dress shoes for a formal night? What can you wear from home on travel days to save space in your luggage?

Typically, I’ll wear my sneakers as my flip-flops and sandals occupy the least space in my luggage. Hubby will decide between wearing his sneakers or dress shoes ( if he needs to bring them) and packing one or the other.

A Rain Jacket, Poncho, or Umbrella

You might question needing a rain jacket or umbrella when you’re off to bask under the Caribbean sun. Trust me, I’m no fan of packing for rain either. But tropical destinations are known for their quick, fleeting showers. Rather than retreating to the ship, being prepared lets you embrace every moment, rain or shine. After all, from experience, those showers hardly ever stick around long enough.

Disposable ponchos can also work in a pinch.

Toiletries You’ll Need in the Caribbean

Outside of your everyday toiletries (toothpaste, body lotion, shampoo, conditioner, facial treatments, etc.) that you love, you’ll want to bring these additional items below.

Sunscreen is one of the top things you should bring on a Caribbean vacation. It’s another additional layer of sun protection that is a must. If you have a preferred brand or want to save money, pack it in advance or buy it before getting on the ship.

Tip: Purchase a sunscreen that is at least 50 SPF or above. Stick with reef-friendly sunscreens.

Aftersun Moisturizer

After sunbathing and getting a little red, bring some aloe or aftersun moisturizer to soothe your fiery skin. We love Maui Vera for its limited ingredients and cooling effects that make your skin feel good after getting burnt. The sun is fiery, and even if sometimes we think we are covered with sunblock, the next thing you know, you’re a lobster.

Insect Repellent

In the Caribbean, mosquitos are alive and well and ready to attack. Protect yourself with insect repellent before you leave to enjoy your day in port.

Leave-In Conditioner

This may not be necessary for everyone, but it is for me because of my mop of hair. The sun can damage and dry out hair. Adding some leave-in conditioner with sun protection before you head out for a day in the tropical sun can help.

Lip Balm with SPF

Keep your lips hydrated and protected from the sun with lip balm with spf . The Supergoop brand is our go-to.

Caribbean Port Day Accessories

Beach bag, day bag, or dry bag.

A day at the port will require you to bring a beach bag or day bag. There are multiple options to choose from. We like to use this packable water-resistant backpack and, sometimes, our carry-on duffle if we need to bring our snorkel sets and other accessories. Of course, if you’re going on a boat trip or want to keep things close with you as you go into the water, a dry bag can work, too.

Packable Beach Towels

The cruise ship provides towels for you to bring off the ship, so bringing towels is completely optional. We recently packed these packable microfiber ones to take with us to port, and they were much easier to carry than the bulky ones from the ship.

Beach Towel Clips or Bands

We recommend bringing beach towel clips or bands if you plan to lounge on a pool or beach chair on the cruise ship’s deck or at a beach in a Caribbean port. These clips or bands help keep the towel in place so you can sit back on it without fussing it so much. You’ll be grateful to have them, especially on a windy day.

Tip: The beach towel clips can double as clothespins when needed. We’ve had

Snorkel Set

A snorkel set is a must for those who love to snorkel. This is all hubby wants to do when we are in the Caribbean. Snorkels are provided when you go on a snorkeling excursion, but you can use your own if you want, and you may prefer that. Having a snorkel set with you at the beach saves you money from renting it out and allows you to go snorkeling from the beach shore at your own pace.

Handheld Portable Fan

A portable fan is another item you’ll be thankful for if it’s hot and humid and there is no breeze coming your way. It’s great to use if you’re at the beach or walking around and exploring the port.

Water Bottle

You should bring a refillable water bottle to have with you around the cruise ship and in port. You can purchase bottled water on your way out of the cruise, but that’s usually an extra cost that you can save.

Note: Virgin Voyages does not offer bottled water on its cruise ships, and it is highly recommended that you bring your own reusable water bottle.

Waterproof Phone Case

Save your phone with this easy and cheap waterproof phone case . They are great when you go swimming or when you ride a boat. You can still take pictures inside the case with it and keep it hanging around your neck. They also take up very little room to pack.

Zip Lock Bags

Zip-lock bags are incredibly versatile for cruising. Pack some gallon-sized ones to store wet swimsuits after beach outings or excursions. This will keep the rest of the things in your day bag dry.

Other Cruise Items Not To Forget For a Caribbean Cruise

Power outlet and/or usb extender.

Newer ships have been equipping their cabins with extra power and USB outlets. This is not the case for older ships that may come with one or maybe two power outlets and no USB plug-ins. We always recommend bringing a power outlet extender. Depending on your needs, we recommend one with an extra electrical outlet and a USB-B and USB-C. These take little to no space in your luggage.

Magnetic Hooks

Since discovering magnetic hooks as a cruise hack , I do not cruise without them. These strong hooks can be used throughout your cabin on the walls and even from the ceiling. They are great for hanging items from hats, purses, clothing, and even drying wet clothes. The key is to buy ones that hold 100 lbs and up .

Portable Charger and Charging Cable

We never travel without a portable charger and an additional charging cable, and you shouldn’t either. You never know when you will need that extra charge, and power outlets and USB outlets aren’t always available. This is great to have on hand in the port; just in case your phone suddenly dies, you have a way to charge it.

Laundry Detergent

On a Caribbean cruise, you will likely wash a few things in your cabin bathroom sink, probably your swimsuit. So pack some travel-sized detergent . You can send them out for cleaning, but sometimes, it takes too long to return them to you.

Wrinkle Release Spray

Traveling with wrinkle spray release is a must especially since irons and steamers are prohibited onboard cruise ships . It also helps freshen clothes.

E-Book Reader or Book

For some of us, a cruise to the Caribbean means some time to get some reading in. If you don’t subscribe to audiobooks, E-readers are a great way to bring multiple books without sacrificing luggage space. I love my Kindle Paperwhite ; it’s lightweight and waterproof (to an extent). You can always bring that paperback from home you’ve wanted to read.

First Aid Kit

Having a first aid kit readily available when you go on a cruise, even to the Caribbean, is smart. Prepared for any minor accidents or needs for basic medical supplies like bandaids. Recently, I fell trying to sit on my cruise ship balcony and cut my elbow. I was thankful for the bandaids and disinfectant in my first aid kit.

Prescription and OTC Medications

Keep your prescription and any other medications you think you’ll need in your cruise carry-on bag. Basic over-the-counter medications like pain relievers, seasonal allergy meds, and things to help an upset stomach will also be useful.

Important Travel Documents & Finances

Passport or government identification + birth certificate.

Even if you’re visiting the US Virgin Islands in the Caribbean, you must provide a passport or another official form of identification to embark the ship. As a US Citizen, if you do not have a passport and your cruise starts and ends in a US port, a government ID such as a driver’s license in combination with your official birth certificate should be sufficient.

Of course, we always recommend checking the requirements directly with the cruise line.

• Apply for your passport. Make it a family event. It is one of the best investments you and your family can make.

Cash and Credit Cards

Never leave home on vacation without cash and a travel credit card. Cash is not only great to have on hand for tipping, but it is widely favored on the islands when getting in taxis, paying for shore excursions, and even in restaurants. Having a credit card when the option is available is best for security reasons and to accumulate travel points.

Print This Caribbean Cruise Packing List

We’ve created a printable cruise packing list of everything mentioned in this post for your Caribbean Cruise. You can cross off anything you don’t plan to take or doesn’t make sense for your traveling style. Place a checkmark beside the things you pack as you add them to your suitcase.

What is a smart casual dress code on Caribbean cruises?

The smart casual dress code for Caribbean cruises typically requires stylish yet informal attire, such as dress pants or khakis with a polo for men and a sundress, skirt, or dressy pants with a nice shirt for women. The key is to balance comfort and a polished appearance suitable for dining and evening events.

How many outfits do you pack for a 7-day cruise?

For a 7-day cruise, we recommend packing 7-10 outfits, considering both daytime and evening attire. You have to take into account what you plan to do on the cruise ship and at the port and whether any of your clothing can be worn at another time during the cruise. Creating a capsule wardrobe will allow you to mix and match key pieces to create different looks.

How do you pack lightly for a 7-day cruise?

Packing lightly for a 7-day cruise involves creating a versatile capsule wardrobe, choosing multi-purpose items, limiting the number of shoes you bring, considering your laundry options, and minimizing toiletries. It can be done, but you must prioritize and pack essential items efficiently.

BEFORE YOU SET SAIL, HERE ARE SOME RELATED ARTICLES YOU DON’T WANT TO MISS:

• Must-Haves to Pack for a Cruise Vacation
• Packing List for a Beach Vacation
• Packing List for an Alaskan Cruise
• Don’t Wear This on a Cruise
• Cruise Tips You Should Be Aware Of

Meet Kathy Ava, a food, travel, and cruise writer based in Los Angeles/Pasadena, and the owner and main writer of Tasty Itinerary. With over 20 years of experience planning trips and logistics at her full-time job and for herself, she's become a pro at crafting unforgettable tasty itineraries. She's always on the hunt for delicious, fun travel destinations and cruise itineraries. She firmly believes that life is short and we must make the most of it, so always say yes to dessert.

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12 Cruise Outfits You’ll Love to Wear

Taking a cruise is a once in a lifetime experience. Cruising gives you the chance to relax by the pool, sightsee & shop at various ports, go on thrilling excursions and dine on incredible meals. A cruise is the ultimate vacation! Plan your cruise outfits carefully and not only will you look good in your photos but you’ll also be able to travel relatively light. Read my complete cruise ship packing list with printable PDF checklist that you can download.

Wondering what to wear on a cruise? Cruise ship attire can be a little tricky to plan, especially if this is your first cruise. Cruise attire varies from a bathing suit & cover up to cocktail dresses and if you’re not careful you can end up way overpacking. With this post, I’ve put together 12 outfits for a cruise that will take you from excursions to evening easily, without stuffing your suitcase. You’ll see that all my cruise clothing can be mixed and matched to create multiple cruise ship outfits from just a few key pieces.

These Caribbean cruise outfits are by no means definitive but I just want to show you how easy cruise wear can be to put together when you know how. With seven basic pieces you can build so many different outfits for cruise activities and excursions, pack light and, most importantly, look fantastic.

Note that this is all Caribbean cruise attire but almost all these outfits would work for a Mediterranean cruise also. You can read my European Cruise Packing List post here.

If you’re looking for advice on what to wear on an Alaskan cruise, please see my Alaska Cruise Packing List for lots of ideas as your outfits for this will be much, much different than the ones listed below.

Cruise Wardrobe Essentials

For a full list of what to bring on a cruise, read my Ultimate Cruise Packing List here.  We also just on our first cruise with Carnival so I created a Carnival cruise packing list too .

My cruise wardrobe ideas are all built on a few key pieces. With these few items and a few well-chosen accessories you can create so many outfits to wear on a cruise! You’ll notice that all the accessories I’ve picked to go with this cruise dress attire have been repeated throughout the outfits. I’ve included plus-size alternatives to the key basic pieces and of course the accessories are all plus-size friendly. I have also tried to pick affordable pieces with many  items coming in under $35.

• White bermuda shorts   – Add a pair of denim shorts too and double the amount of outfits you have. If you don’t do shorts, you can switch these out for capri pants.
• Striped t-shirts   – A couple of striped t-shirts are perfect for a cruise and nicely nautical.
• White jeans   – White jeans or pants are a great cruise outfit. If you don’t want to wear jeans, you can switch these out for linen pants or capri pants. See my list of the best travel pants for more ideas.
• Sundress   – So simple and easy. I’ve gone for a royal blue here but this dress comes in lots of colors. Add a black one in for even more outfit options.
• Maxi dress  – Easy and comfortable to wear on travel days, around the ship or when you feel your waist expanding from all the delicious food onboard! A solid is more versatile than a print but you could easily bring along a second dress in a print.
• Black jumpsuit  – Stylish and versatile. You can build so many cruise outfits ideas with a black jumpsuit as a base. If you’re not comfortable trying out a jumpsuit a black maxi dress would work instead.
• Kimono   – A super lightweight addition to any women’s wardrobe and one of the best cruise wardrobe items. It can be used as a pool cover up with a bathing suit and flip flops.

Here are my Ideas for Best Cruise Outfits!

Bright maxi dress for day.

A maxi dress is one of the best outfits for cruise ship passengers because it is lightweight, comfortable and works with many body types. Just remember to pack a suitable bra if you’re getting one like this with spaghetti straps.

• White cat eye Ray Ban sunglasses
• Floral print scarf
• Brown beach tote
• Tan sandals

Plus size option:

Bright Maxi Dress Dressed Up for Evening

• Black & teal statement necklace & earrings
• Peacock print sequinned purse
• Gold wedge sandals

Colourful Tunic with Shorts for Day

This is perfect casual cruise attire for on or off the ship.

• Colorful tunic
• White vest top for underneath
• White bermuda shorts

Plus size options:

• White bermuda shorts or capri pants if you’re not comfortable in shorts
• Pink tunic or blue print tunic or aqua tunic

Colorful Tunic with White Jeans for Evening

• Gold statement necklace
• Gold wristlet purse
• White jeans

Black Jumpsuit for Sightseeing Excursion

A black jumpsuit is one of the best outfits for a cruise! It’s so versatile and stylish.

• Black jumpsuit
• Aviator sunglasses

Black Jumpsuit for Formal Dining

This jumpsuit goes easily from daywear to attire for Captain’s dinner on a cruise just by switching out the accessories for more glamorous options. If you don’t want to do a jumpsuit then a black dress would also make perfect cruise dinner attire.

• Black sheer & beaded bolero
• Black strappy heels
• Sequin bolero

Striped T-Shirt for Easy Excursions

A nautical-inspired striped t-shirt is one of the nicest cruise wear ideas. Comfortable, practical and easy to wear. I like this one because it’s slightly longer length means it covers my butt but could also be knotted at the side or tucked in and flounced over jeans.

• Striped t-shirt
• Sketchers Go Walk sneakers

Striped T-Shirt for Smart Casual Dining

• Blue statement necklace

Kimono with Sundress for Day

This is classic cruise casual attire and would work for a city sightseeing excursion or a day at the beach. The kimono provides good sun coverage for your back & shoulders and can be worn over a swimsuit as a beach coverup also.

• Sundress (Same dress as picture, goes up to 3XL)

Kimono with Chiffon Vest & White Jeans for Evening

• Chiffon tank top
• Longer length vest top – the one pictured above does go up to 2XL though

Simple Sundress for Informal Evening

Dressed up sundress for formal dining.

Cruise ship dinner attire for formal dining evenings doesn’t have to be a cocktail dress or evening gown. You can dress up a simple sundress with the right accessories.

I hope you enjoyed my cruise wardrobe planner!

These cruise clothes ideas are based on my own experience on two Caribbean cruises. I way overpacked my Caribbean cruise wardrobe on my first cruise. I didn’t know what proper cruise attire was so packed much more than I needed, just in case. By my second cruise I had some practical experience on cruise attire ideas based on what other travelers wore on board and what I did and didn’t use from my first experience. On my second cruise our whole family of four managed to travel in just one carry on backpack!

On my first cruise with RCL I did note that Royal Caribbean cruise attire was slightly dressier in my experience than what we observed on our second cruise with Norwegian. As mentioned above, we just went on a Carnival cruise too so I have put together a packing list for that also.

Now you should have some really good ideas on proper cruise attire for women. Be sure to drop me a comment below to let me know if this blog post helped you pack for your cruise.

Join Our Facebook Group to Chat More About Cruise Packing Tips

If you want to ask a specific question, chat to other cruisers about what to pack for your cruise or share your own cruise packing advice then join our Facebook group on Cruise Packing Tips!  Whether you’re going on a honeymoon cruise , cruising with kids or just treating yourself to a much needed vacation, these outfits should cover it! We would love to help you work out exactly what to pack or hear your own ideas about what gear you use on your cruise. Join us for some fun and friendly discussions.

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Use Pinterest to keep track of all your travel and fashion ideas. You can follow my cruising board here and my packing tips board here .

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Love your wardrobe planners!

Thank you Mary! 🙂

Thanks a lot didn’t know what to wear

This is some awesome information for my first cruise. I always seem to pack to much. This helps to know how to mix n match perfectly! Thanks

Thanks Kay! I’m glad it’s helpful!

This is great! Has given me lots of ideas for my first cruise. Thanks

Great idea’s! Going on my 2nd cruise on the 19th!

Awesome Karri! Where are you cruising to on this trip?

We’re going to Montego Bay, Georgetown and Cozumel on Carnival!

I am going on my first cruise…a New England cruise on Carnival Sunshine in early September ….what are some suggestions to pack as I am not sure of the weather at that time of year..

Great ideas for a cruise wardrobe and I really like all the outfits.

Thank you for the great cruise wardrobe ideas! We are cruising the Mediterranean at the beginning of October. Do I pack for the Fall/seaon or ignore the season for cruise wear?

Love, love, love this post! Thank you so much for breaking down the clothing into outfits. I am going on a ten day cruise to the Caribbean in February. I am following your packing suggestions. Our cruise will be on an Italian ship (MSC Divina) leaving from Miami. We will be visiting the US Virgin Islands, St. Kitts & Nevis, Martinique, Barbados, and Guadeloupe.

Have you tried the black jumpsuit that you reference on Amazon? I am considering buying it, but I was wondering what your experience has been with it.

As for sandals, I love the Abeo brand available from the Walking Company because of the arch support that they provide. I’ve had plantar fasciitis before, so now I always wear shoes with good arch support.

Awesome Karen! I have plantar fasciitis on and off too so definitely wear comfy sandals. How tall are you? The jumpsuit is long but I’m only 5’2″ so needed it taken up.

This is a brilliant list and I’m even more grateful for the plus sized versions! This will make things so simple! ?

Thanks for the compliment Jennifer! Gotta represent for the plus size ladies! 🙂

I like the combinations but do you really need a hand bag or clutch on a cruise? I never carry a bag so I don’t get it.

No, you don’t need it. Sometimes it’s just nice to have to complete the outfit though. You don’t need it for cash of course but for your cruise card and a bit of extra lipstick to touch up after dinner is always nice. Especially if you’re having photos on formal night.

This was so helpful as I plan my first cruise in April. We are sailing on the Summit from San Juan on a 7 day trip. I am a planner and guilty of overpacking, overthinking scenarios. We are doing 2 excursions and have to consider that attire as well. Thank you

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My 7-Day Caribbean Cruise Outfit 

Are you looking for some of the chip-style Caribbean cruise outfits that elevate your look? You’re on the right blog; I’ll share the 7-day Caribbean cruise wardrobe ideas I dressed up last year. 

Sailing to the Caribbean is a true tour, but only if you have some comfortable wear. I’m big smarty pants in sharing these cruise wear because I always grab new outfits for each of my cruise tips. 

Don’t ask me how you deal with clothing you no longer need:)

My wardrobe always remains packed, and my husband often taunts me about that. Nonetheless, for a Caribbean cruise , you must pack some light stuff like sundress, light maxi, cocktail dress, shorts, shirts, and swimwear; no need to pack heavy. 

Let’s dive into some fabulous, lightweight dresses that will make your Caribbean journey more comfortable and relaxed. 

Table of Contents

7-Day Caribbean Cruise Outfit For Comfortable Experience

1- 2 piece short sleeve crop.

So first of all, I love this two-piece short-sleeved crop dress, and this is my embarkation day attire. The skin-friendly and elastic fabric perfectly fits around your body, giving you a very sexy and comfortable feel. 

Pants are super cozy, and this is a must-have outfit for you if you’re a plus size lady . You can wear these pants for your fitness activities if you’re a yoga buff or a fitness enthusiast. And to deal with the Caribbean’s heat , the backless crop top will help you.

2 Piece Outfits for Women Sexy Backless Short Sleeve Crop Top

Check Out: Essential Things To Pack In Cruise Carry-On

2- Midi Bodycon Dress 

If you’re not a fan of large, baggy trousers, don’t worry; you can opt for this elegant midi bodycon. This stretchy dress highlights your body curves and makes you look more sexier. But only go for it if you’re a slim-fit lady. 

I wore this dress two times in my last seven-day Caribbean cruise. Because of the attractive style and formal appeal, this dress is an ideal option for formal nights or party nights .

The dress pairs perfectly with sandals and heels, or you can even wear boots. And this dress looks so premium, so I often use it at ceremonies and parties. 

Receive an 20% discount when making a purchase through the provided link. (Offer valid as of 19/15/2024; subject to future changes.)

PRETTYGARDEN Women’s Long Sleeve Midi Bodycon Dress

3- v-neck maxi dress.

This catchy floral maxi dress is highly recommended for hot summer days in the Caribbean.

And this is my favorite daytime wear for those hot Caribbean days. It’s breathable and flattering; I love the adjustable spaghetti design and the pockets. This dress is available in many colors and designs, but I like the Navy blue and Green leaf variants. 

Light sandals and a hat go perfectly well with this dress; don’t forget to turn on sunnies to elevate your look further. 

Women’s Summer Maxi Dress Casual V-Neck Sleeveless 

4- causal flowy mini dress.

I love short dresses, especially because they are super friendly on hot sunny days. For the Caribbean Islands, this tropical mini dress is the best bet.

I usually wear this dress to the pool to soak up some sun on a lounger. I love the back zipper that helps me hide my belly, making me so much more confident. 

Receive an 26% discount when making a purchase through the provided link. (Offer valid as of 19/15/2024; subject to future changes.)

BELONGSCI Women’s 2024 Summer Dress Sweet & Cute V-Neck

5- one shoulder ruffle maxi dress.

There are so many attire options for the formal night , but this one with a sophisticated look and ruffle design stands out. I usually pack two formal dresses for a 7-night Caribbean cruise, and this dress remains my second priority. 

It has a unique one-shoulder design and an elastic waist that helps me hide my tummy. This is a super flattering dress that you can’t also wear on the beach during sunset time, and it will make your evening more romantic. 

Receive an 8% discount when making a purchase through the provided link. (Offer valid as of 19/15/2024; subject to future changes.)

PRETTYGARDEN Women’s Floral Maxi Dress 2024

6- backless spaghetti strap mini dress.

For short shore excursions, I prefer this mini spaghetti strap dress. It has a nice bow tie at the back that enables you to adjust it and make it slim fit on your belly.

This one is also comfortable attire for pregnant ladies. This exquisite dress is also preferable to wear at night parties and formal evenings. 

Just imagine yourself wearing this striking dress with a stylish purse in your hand and paired with low wedge sandals; you will truly look a queen in this outfit. This dress is just so radiant; it’s like every eye in the room is glued to me.

Receive an 7% discount when making a purchase through the provided link. (Offer valid as of 19/15/2024; subject to future changes.)

ECOWISH Womens V-Neck Spaghetti Strap Bowknot Backless Dress

7- floral puff sleeve tops .

Wearing a casual floral top with shorts is always my priority on a hot, sunny beach in the Caribbean. This simple yet elegant outfit makes me so much more comfortable.

I just love such breezy attire, especially for those scorcher weeks on the Caribbean Islands . You can wear a breathable tank or any half-sleeve t-shirt under this top. 

You can also use it as a coverup for pool activities or wear it while basking in the sun at the beach.

Receive an 38% discount when making a purchase through the provided link. (Offer valid as of 19/15/2024; subject to future changes.)

Women’s Floral Print Puff Sleeve Kimono 

8- button down tropical shirt.

This Hawaiian shirt is best suited for tropical climates like the Caribbean. The beautiful sea painting on the shirt reflects a tropical theme, reflecting that you’re a big fan of the Caribbean. I love the bold and vibrant colors that make it more eye-catching. 

The shirt is available in various styles, designs, colors, and sizes. You can grab the one that suits you the most. I personally like “Blue Palm Tree Island.” Also, this one has a very airy fabric, best for wearing on beaches and shore excursions. 

LA LEELA Women’s Button Down Tropical Colorful Shirt

9- two piece bathing suits .

For a Caribbean cruise, bathing suits hold prime significance. I usually pack two bathing suits for a 7-day Caribbean cruise. The first one that I prefer is this two-piece ruffled high-waisted suit. I feel so much more confident and comfortable in this suit. 

It features adjustable straps at the back so you can adjust it according to your comfort level. The high-waist bikini hides your belly and makes you look slimmer. 

Receive an 15% discount when making a purchase through the provided link. (Offer valid as of 19/15/2024; subject to future changes.)

SuperPrity Swimsuits for Women Two Piece Bathing Suits 

10- one piece swimsuits.

This is a one-piece swimsuit that I often use for the pool. It has got a ruffle design that looks super attractive.

I love the back tie feature that helps to find a perfect fit for every item of clothing. Like the previous suit, this one also features a tummy control front that flatters your belly and makes you confident.

Also, it offers maximum coverage as compared to the two-piece swimsuits. 

CUPSHE Women’s Ruffled One Piece Swimsuit V Neck Lace Up

3 foot wears that i pack for 7 day caribbean cruise.

I don’t pay too much attention to footwear, but I generally pack at least three footwear for every cruise. The first one is your sandals; I went for this comfortable sandal with memory foam cushioning. 

For formal nights or parties, I wear this stylish Parigi Pump. Don’t forget to pack flip-flops and water shoes because they are the best companion for a Caribbean cruise voyage. 

CUSHIONAIRE Women’s Voyage slide sandal +Memory Foam

Lifestride women’s parigi pump , seekway water shoes men .

Related Post: Cruise Toiletries That You Must Pack

I am Zoe Grace, a passionate enthusiast of cruise ships. With a decade of firsthand experience in the cruising industry, I have developed a deep understanding of the intricacies and wonders that these majestic vessels hold.

Now, I am excited to embark on a new journey as an author, sharing my knowledge and insights with readers who share my fascination for the world of cruising.

Join me as we explore the captivating world of cruise ships together.

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The Travel Capsule Wardrobe: The Rule of 3

Capsule Travel Wardrobe , FASHION

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For some travelers, packing light equates to a vacation of repeated outfits. Luckily, this doesn’t have to be true. By focusing on versatility, you can mix and match items to create countless outfits from just a few items. Keep reading to discover versatile packing at its finest and the importance of a travel capsule wardrobe.

The Travel Capsule Wardrobe

Written By: Maggie Fogg

As avid travelers, we firmly believe in packing light (as light as possible, in fact). Flying with just a carry-on and packing cubes can save tons of time and energy – and help you side-step some major headaches, including lost baggage and heavy suitcases you have to drag up a flight of stairs.

But when you only have a small suitcase, and as a result – only a few pieces to work with – figuring out what to pack and how to plan outfits can be tricky.

How do you keep your wardrobe incredibly limited without surrendering your style? How do you pack only a few key items, while maintaining versatility in your outfits?

Working from a capsule wardrobe is your best bet. Sticking with basic separates in neutral colors goes a long way for creating a variety of outfits with limited items.

If you are packing for a combination of business and pleasure in the same trip, it becomes all the more important to choose well-made styles that can be dressed up or dressed down with a few accessories.

How do you build a tight wardrobe without adding too many pieces? How do you keep your suitcase lean without choosing only safe, boring and basic options – and steering clear of going too far the other way, packing stylish pieces that you’ll only ever end up wearing once?

Let’s look at a few essential tips…

And don’t worry. A capsule wardrobe doesn’t need to be made of  dull all-black outfits . You can use the guidelines below to create a versatile travel wardrobe featuring a variety of clothing styles ( this  is how to mix and match prints).

Read this to learn how to pack light stylishly  for any destination!

The answer is to follow one simple rule – the rule of 3. This is more than wearing every piece you pack at least 3 times. Pack all items with the intention of wearing each item in a variety of outfits that work in at least three different occasion types.

This could be dressy, professional, and casual. Or it could be sexy, relaxed, and polished. It all depends on your lifestyle and the nature of your trip. When you consider using each piece with this kind of versatility, you’ll be able to build a stylish capsule wardrobe for any trip, and have tens of great outfits on-hand for any occasion.

Choose from one of eight  travel capsule wardrobes to help you plan for your trip!

OUTFIT 1: Necklace | Tank Top | Jeans | Bag | Sandals   OUTFIT 2: Hat | Necklace  |  Shorts | Sandals   OUTFIT 3: Blazer | Necklace | Pouch  | Skirt | Flats

The Travel Capsule Wardrobe: One Piece, 3 Ways

Take, for example, a pretty tank top like the wine-colored one shown above. It can be paired with a relaxed skirt and a blazer for a casual business event.

However, just as easily, it can be dressed up for an evening out on the town with a slim pair of jeans and a cool rocker-inspired choker and cross-body bag .

And third, the tank looks just as stylish with a beach babe pair of cut-off denim shorts, boho-inspired travel sandals and a straw hat – on point for a summer musical festival.

Take a look at this post to see how you can make 3 weeks worth of outfits with just eight pieces of clothing!

OUTFIT 1:   Earrings | Bag | Blouse | Sunglasses | Joggers | Flats   OUTFIT 2: Tank | Earrings | Lipstick | Bag | B o o t s OUTFIT 3:   Shirt | Tank | Necklace | Backpack | Shoes

The Travel Capsule Wardrobe: Guidelines for 3 Uses

Now that you know how to use one piece in three different ways, follow these guidelines to make the most of your outfits.

Be Meticulous With Fit

Stick to flattering, figure-skimming silhouettes. Avoid anything with too tight of a fit, as it won’t appear relaxed or chic. Likewise, avoid anything with a loose fit since it can read as sloppy and unpolished. Don’t be afraid to tailor your clothing, especially when it’s something you absolutely love!

Stick to Classic Styles With a Hint of Trend

Choose fairly neutral colors and simple cuts and patterns for versatility and longevity, but look for unique twists that add visual interest. This could be lace detail, embroidery, funky zippers – anything that expresses your personality.

File Into 3 Occasion Buckets

When you’re shopping for new items or pulling items from your closet to pack, mentally file each item into its occasion bucket. Is it sexy, relaxed, and girly? Or is it business-casual, classic, and refined? Hint: this rule also works really well outside of travel packing for your everyday wardrobe, too.

Don’t Forget to Map Your Outfits

Particularly with separates, make sure you can pair each item with several other items you’ve packed. It doesn’t help you if you can wear a cute embroidered blouse to the museum, a nice dinner, and on the plane but haven’t any bottoms you can pair with the top.

Have Fun With Accessories

Follow the same rule of 3 with accessories, including bags, shoes, jackets, and jewelry. Shop for high-quality, versatile pieces that are fairly classic in design but have a fun flair. For shoes, all you need are three pairs: one for sightseeing, one for a special activity, and a bonus pair.

These are the most cute and comfortable shoes for travel !

OUTFIT 1: Blazer | Dress | Necklace | Crossbody | Flats   OUTFIT 2: Hat | Sunglasses | Handbag |  Shoes   OUTFIT 3: Jacket | Earrings | Lipstick | Pouch |  Sandals

For example, this black and white striped dress is modern and airy with a slightly French nod. It can be dressed up for a summer night with bold earrings and a trendy belt. It also pairs well with polished accessories – like a cream blazer and ballet flats – for a cultural outing. Or, pair the dress with white sneakers , a summer hat, and a super-cute canvas tote for a breezy look to wear when visiting a local farmers market.

Ultimately, the accessories help give this dress a different feel for each occasion, but the guidelines above are used for each outfit. Each of the accessories are basic in their feel, but they have a trendy or stylish twist and can be paired with other outfits for other occasions.

Check out our top choices for convertible travel dresses!

With this simple rule, you can streamline your travel packing, change the way you look at your everyday wardrobe, and transform how you shop in the future.

Need help creating a capsule wardrobe ?

Savvy travelers know that a capsule wardrobe is the secret to traveling carry-on only. Pack Light Stylishly  is our eBook that shows you exactly how to make a functional yet stylish capsule wardrobe for travel.

Learn more about Pack Light Stylishly  here !

What are your tips on versatile packing for travel? Do you follow a travel capsule wardrobe? Share in the comments below!

For more packing strategies, please read these posts:

• Building a Travel Wardrobe in 5 Simple Steps
• How to Fit Everything in a Carryon (Video Tutorial)
• Think Traveling Carry-on Only is Impossible? Read this.
• How to Choose the Best Shoes for Travel

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I hope you liked this post on versatile packing at its finest and the power of a travel capsule wardobe. Please share with your friends on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest. Thanks for reading!

Author Bio:  Maggie Fogg is a full-time traveler and writer. She left Toronto with a one-way ticket to Spain and has been making her way around the globe ever since. Currently, you can find her dancing and hiking her way around South America. Follow Maggie on  Instagram .

My dream of having a capsule wardrobe will come true soon. Thank you for your advice! I really like the post!

Thank you, so glad you found this helpful Eleonora!

I really like all of your articles concerning capsule wardrobes for travel and plan to incorporate these ideas in future trios, both domestic and abroad. The suggested items and related links are helpful as well. Thank you for the time you put into developing helpful content!

All the advice on this and other capsule wardrobe posts helped me travel to Europe for a week with carry on only.

I like to create a colour palette and stick to it. My next trip is neutrals with a splash of pink. Black pants, beige pants, white tops, a pink jumper and a black blazer/jacket and a gorgeous scarf with a pop of pink.

Love this mix of colors Jacki, sounds amazing!!

I love this article! I prefer a small wardrobe and will be using this article to assist me with starting a new one. Love the images of the outfit possiblities!

Thank you so much for sharing your feedback with us, so happy to hear you loved the post!!!! ?

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Creating a Great Cruise Capsule Wardrobe For Mexico (2024)

DISCLOSURE: Stylish Cruising contains affiliate links and is a member of the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, as well as affiliate programs with other companies. If you make a purchase using one of these links, we may receive compensation at no extra cost to you. To learn more, please see our  Privacy Policy .

NOTE: This post was originally published in 2023. It has been revised and refreshed with new wardrobe options for 2024.

Are you booked for a Mexican Riviera cruise and have no idea what to wear, or how many outfits you might need? Here’s how to create a cruise capsule wardrobe for Mexico.

What should I wear on a Mexican Riviera cruise?

A good mix of clothing for hot weather, including several casual outfits plus a couple of dressier ones. Swimwear and coverups. Bring a sweater or light jacket for cool temps on the ship.

How many outfits will I need for a seven-day cruise?

A good rule of thumb is two outfits per day, one for excursions or a sea day, and another for the evening. You’ll also need swimsuits and a coverup.

Will I need any dressy clothes?

Most cruise lines have one dress-up night for a week-long cruise, and these are usually optional. You’ll also want to dress a little nicer for premium restaurants. Think “casual chic” for most cruise lines and you’ll be fine.

How do I put together a cruise capsule wardrobe for Mexico?

Read on, and I’ll show you how.

Winter makes me think of warm destinations, and a Mexican Riviera cruise is just the thing to shake the snow off your shoes. We’ve been on two, one a few years ago and one recently , and we had a great time. These cruises generally stop in Mazatlan, Cabo San Lucas, and Puerto Vallarta, and some also stop in Ensenada.

Chico’s has some of the most beautiful travel clothes, so I did some window-shopping on their website to see what I could find that would be suitable for a cruise capsule wardrobe for Mexico. For shoes, I checked out Zappo’s.

Store inventories are fluid, so you may click on an item to shop it and find it’s no longer available. In any case, you can see the look I was going for.

Trip Parameters

For any trip, you’ll need to think about:

Number of days : Seven days for most Mexican Riviera cruises

Season : For Mexico, it varies. Temperatures range from warm to very hot

Dress-up nights : One

With this in mind, you’ll need to choose casual items both short-sleeved and long-sleeved (remember, the ship is air-conditioned), shorts and pants, and sundresses. You’ll need at least one “dressy” outfit, but it doesn’t have to be formal.

For mixing and matching, I’ve selected a variety of items that will make many outfit combinations. You may want to pare this down some if you want to pack lighter.

Ultimate Cruise Planner

Need a little assistance organizing and planning your cruise? Our Ultimate Cruise Planner can help!

Color Palette

To facilitate mixing and matching, I came up with a color palette that we’ll adhere to. Note that I’ve chosen a light neutral as well as a dark one, plus a couple of colors.

For this trip, the dark and light neutrals will be black and white, and the colors will be blue and berry.

Here are the tops I’ve chosen for the cruise, adhering to the color palette and trying to find a good mix of solids and patterns, both casual and dressier.

SHOP THESE ITEMS

Black Tunic | Black Tank

Floral Dot Tee | Paisley Tunic Top

Tie-Day Navy Top | Blue Floral Tank

Blue and White Top | Hot Pink Top

Striped Top | White Top

The Bottoms

Here are the bottoms I chose, again sticking with the color palette and trying to choose a balance between casual and dressier, and varying the lengths.

Black Slacks | Black Cropped pants

Cropped Jeans | White Pants

White Shorts

The Dresses

Although there will only be one dress-up night, you might want to eat at a premium restaurant, so you’ll want to dress up for that. With that in mind, I chose two dresses.

Chiffon Dress | Midi Dress

And here are the shoes I chose, trying to keep them versatile and to a minimum. For these, I stuck to the two neutral colors in the palette, black and white.

Black Mules | Black Heels

Canvas Sneaker | White Sandals

The Swimwear

Of course, you need swimsuits for Mexico, right? Here are a couple of suits plus a cover-up and a sun hat for you.

Black Swimsuit | Black and White Swimsuit

Cover-Up | Sun Hat

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Outfit ideas.

And here are the cute outfits I put together for this trip. Links are included above for each item so you can shop them if you’d like. If they’re already sold out when you click, I apologize, but you can see the look I was going for.

For an excursion

On cruises, excursions will usually have early-morning start times when temperatures are a little cooler, but in Mexico, it will still be hot.

Knowing that, choose a mixture of tops geared toward staying cool. Consider mixing and matching when you choose them, and go for patterns as well as solids.

For this outfit, I chose a tie-dye tee, white shorts, and slip-on canvas sneakers that will be perfect for exploring.

Here’s another outfit: a blue-and-white patterned top, denim capris, and sandals. This outfit would be perfect for a day when you won’t be doing a lot of walking.

For the Beach or pool

Relaxing by the pool is part of the fun of Mexico. Why not look good while you’re doing it?

Onboard on a sea day

Although the temperature on the ship is usually comfortable, sometimes it can be chilly. For staying onboard, I put together these two casual outfits with longer sleeves.

For evening

Evenings can be casual or a little dressier, depending on where you’re having dinner or what your plans are. If you’re going to a main dining room and a show in the theater, you’ll want to dress a little nicer. If you’re dining at the buffet and taking in a comedy show, you can dress casually.

For a dressy evening

For a seven-day cruise, you’ll probably only have one dress-up night, which you’ll want to look nice for. Photographers will be set up around the ship to take photos of you. If you dine at a specialty restaurant, you’ll want to dress for that as well.

I chose two options: a midi-length chiffon tiered dress and a midi-length elbow-sleeve dress, and paired both with a pair of heeled sandals.

Travel outfits

For flying to the port, you’ll want to be comfortable, so choose nonrestrictive clothing that you can layer. I wear my slip-on sneakers to make it easier going through TSA, a pair of travel pants, a tee, and a light jacket in case the plane gets cold, or I’m going home to much colder weather. For the trip home, I wear the same outfit but with a different tee.

Jacket | Tee | Pants | Slip-on sneakers

Additional Items

I focused on the major clothing items, but you’ll also need to pack something to sleep in, plus underwear, bras, and socks. And jewelry, don’t forget that! Your jewelry and other accessories like scarves, sunglasses, and purses will help give your outfits a unique look.

Here are a couple of items that will accessorize your new Mexican Riviera wardrobe. The simple canvas tote bag will give you something to carry your purchases in during an excursion (because you know you’ll want to bring home some souvenirs), plus it will be helpful carrying your things to the pool. And the sunglasses will look fabulous on excursions or on a beach day.

Sunglasses | Tote Bag

A Few More Combinations from this Wardrobe

To give you an idea of the versatility of these items, here are just a few of the many outfits you can make with them. Click on the outfit below to see it in a larger window.

Cruise Capsule Wardrobe Checklist

Would you like to have a FREE Cruise Capsule Wardrobe checklist to help you with packing for your next cruise?

Final Thoughts on Creating Your Cruise Capsule Wardrobe For Mexico

Your taste will differ from mine, but these suggestions should give you an idea of how to create your own cute outfits from a capsule wardrobe for your next trip.

Happy cruising!

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What To Wear on a Cruise: 5 Day-to-Night Outfit Ideas [INFOGRAPHIC]

The five must-have cruise outfits to wear from day to night.

By Chantae Reden Published on April 9, 2024

Day-To-Night Outfits

To bring on your cruise.

Explore the world in style with these five perfect cruise outfits that'll keep you comfortable as you go from pool deck to onshore excursion and back again. Put together a capsule wardrobe made up of a few versatile pieces that can be mixed and matched for any adventure.

The quintessential cruise style consists of chic but relaxed pieces. Think breezy fabrics, loose silhouettes, light neutrals, bright colors and beachy accessories.

Lean into tropical prints, red and coral hues that pop against aquamarine waters, woven hats and classic sunglasses.

Your cruise outfits will be as fun to wear as they are to look at.

Port-Day Wardrobe

Fashion and function combine on days strolling through port cities.

Breezy top or polo shirt

Flowy maxi dress

Wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses

Comfortable sandals

Capris or shorts

Dress it up

A cardigan or button-up shirt adds evening elegance when it's time for dinner.

Onboard Ensemble

Go for comfort on those relaxing sea days.

Swimsuit or stylish swim trunks

Sundress or a loose nautical-themed shirt

Panama hat and sunglasses

Comfortable sandals or flip-flops

Swap flip-flops for dressy sandals or closed-toed shoes before heading to the onboard restaurant.

Adventure Attire

Be ready for all of the fun cruise ship adventures, from the skydive simulator to the waterpark.

Lightweight shirt

Athletic shorts or leggings

Long-sleeved shirt, sunglasses and hat

Shoes with sturdy soles

Before showtime at the onboard theater, change into a skirt or trousers, dress shoes and an airy scarf for a polished look.

Beach-Day Outfit

Nothing says beach paradise vacation like an outfit that's laid-back yet luxe.

Swim shorts with a Cuban collar shirt

Hat and sunglasses

Swimsuit under a romper or sundress

Have dinner reservations? Trade your beach sandals for smart penny loafers, and add seashell-inspired jewelry or a sleek watch

Sightseeing Cruise Outfit

Opt for loose, breathable fabrics on big days out to roam any terrain from rainforests to ruins.

A lightweight shirt

Socks and boots or sneakers

Sunhat and sunglasses

Breezy linen pants

This outfit can easily carry you into the evening, but dainty jewelry, colorful slip-on shoes, a Panama hat and swapping from a backpack to handbag will create a softer look.

Getting There

Get packed and ready to set sail on the Ultimate World Cruise.

T hough it's tempting to pack everything, cruise outfits are meant to be laid-back, so plan to wear a few items of clothing more than once — no one will judge you, promise. Pack a few key staple pieces that can be paired together in several different mix and match styles — this is called a capsule wardrobe. To ensure you can put together a great outfit each day, pack mindfully in one color palette or scheme — colors like red, coral and yellow will pop in pictures when photographed in front of a turquoise sea. If you're wondering what to pack for a five-day cruise, bring along six shirts, six sets of underwear, and three to four bottoms. Then, throw in at least two swimsuits, so you always have one dry. Finally, pajamas, a jacket or sweater, athleisure wear, a hat, sunglasses, sandals, athletic shoes, and dress shoes round out a perfect cruise outfit packing list.

Breezy fabrics like cotton and linen in a loose silhouette keep you cool and covered under the sun during the daytime, and with a few adaptable accessories, you can transition seamlessly into a polished evening look. No matter if you're spending your day sipping an ice-cold cocktail on deck, strolling along a sandy beach, adventuring on jungle trails or searching for local treats, these five versatile day-to-night cruise outfit ideas will make packing easy, getting you on island time, in no time.

1. Port-Day Wardrobe

If you'll be spending your port days shopping, dining, and exploring new cities and towns, you'll need cruise outfit ideas that are both stylish and practical. A flowy top or polo shirt, bright-colored capris or khaki shorts, comfortable shoes, sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat will keep you cool during the day. When the sun goes down, dress it up with a button-down shirt, shawl or cardigan.

2. Onboard Ensemble

For days spent at sea, you'll want cruise attire that's comfortable and convertible. A swimsuit underneath a sundress or flowy shirt and shorts is an outfit that will take you from the pool to the spa to the mini golf course and beyond. When it's time for dinner, swap your shorts for trousers and slip on dressy sandals or closed-toe shoes. If you're cruising with your kids, be prepared for spills and stains with an extra shirt.

Solid-colored board shorts paired with a button-up shirt (nautical print encouraged) work just as well for a day on deck. Then, change from swim trunks and flip-flops to chinos and dress shoes before heading to the onboard restaurant. A Panama hat adds an element of holiday luxe no matter the time of day.

3. Adventure Attire

The best outfits for a cruise are the ones you can wear all day long. If you have a list of adventure activities planned for your shore excursions, or if you'll be braving the ship's RipCord® by iFly® skydive simulator and Zip Line, pack accordingly. During the day, wear athletic shorts, a neutral-colored tank top, and sneakers or sandals. Don't forget a hat, sunglasses and a long-sleeved sun shirt in your day bag. Need to dress up for dinner? It's simple. Pack extra clothes in a tote bag in case you don't have time to go back to your stateroom. Swap your athletic shorts for a flowy skirt or trousers, and trade your sneakers for a more formal pair of shoes, like chunky heels or loafers for a put-together look.

4. Beach-Day Outfit

For many, a cruise vacation is all about spending as much time as possible in or near the sea. Maybe this means claiming a lounge chair as your own, seeking a spot in the sand without footprints or swimming out into the clear blue water. When you're done wading in the water or soaking up the sun, a cover-up like a romper, oversized shirt or dress is always a stylish choice for wandering local shops and grabbing a seaside lunch. Quick-drying swim trunks are the go-to staple for this cruise outfit and is a perfect choice for kids. Just throw on a collared shirt and slip-on penny loafers, and you're good to go.

For dinner reservations, add an air of tropical elegance with a pair of wide-legged linen trousers or chinos in a solid color, paired with a linen top in a colorful print and some timeless accessories like a gauzy scarf, dangling necklace, a sleek watch or large sunglasses.

Make sure your cruise packing list includes a lightweight bag for your book, sun protection, wallet, camera, phone and a foldable dry bag tucked inside. When you're done swimming, you can stow your swimwear away in the dry bag without getting the rest of your items wet.

5. Sightseeing Cruise Outfit

When trying to figure out what to wear on a cruise, it's important to plan ahead and know what your must-dos are for your cruise vacation. For long days jam-packed with historical and natural sights to see, pack fabrics that are breathable and comfortable. Linen pants and a good pair of socks and boots are invaluable for rainforest hikes, while a lightweight long-sleeve shirt and a sunhat with a drawstring will keep you covered when visiting ancient ruins. If you're packing outfits for a cruise destination in a warm climate, bring something that can be worn over a swimsuit, so you're always ready to take a dip in hidden cenotes.

When it's time to hit the town at night, add some accessories to soften this look like dainty jewelry, colorful slip-on shoes, a Panama hat and a handbag.

Written By CHANTAE REDEN

Chantae Reden is an adventure writer and photographer who rarely strays far from the coastline. She is a freediver, surfer, scuba diver, and has a mild obsession with sharks. Her work has appeared in Travel + Leisure, Escape, ScubaDiving.com and she's a guidebook author for Moon Travel Guides. Discover more of her stories on her travel website, TheSaltSirens.com.

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Cruise Wear over 50: Flattering Cruise Outfits for Women (plus packing list)

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It’s so much fun packing up and preparing for a cruise . For me, this often starts with thinking about what cruise outfits to wear. While this post is about cruise wear over 50, these cruise fashions can work well for women of all ages!

Please keep in mind that you should always wear what makes you look and feel good. It just happens that I’m turning 50 this summer, but I would wear these cruise outfits at 40 and at 60, and every age in between.

In this post, I share casual cruise wear ideas and formal wear options (all quite affordable). Whether you’re looking for a cute maxi dress or an elegant cocktail dress, I think you’ll like these styles. These outfits aren’t too tight, are versatile, and most importantly, look fabulous!

I’ve also included a few bathing suits and cover ups, shawls, tote bags and evening bags – accessories often complete the look, but are also really useful on a cruise.

I’ve also included photos of some of my own cruise outfits from past cruises. Now, I am by no means a model, but I have a theory that everyone looks good on a cruise .

What to Wear on a Cruise (over 40, 50, 60)

Let’s start with what cruise wear you’ll need for your cruise vacation. On a 7 day Caribbean cruise , you’ll want to be prepared with casual resort style clothing for the day, and a mix of cruise casual and dressy outfits for evening.

Cruise Outfit Packing List for Ladies

Here’s a simple women’s clothing packing list for a 7 day cruise, to use as a guide. Some people like to bring more and some people less, so adjust quantities of your favorite items accordingly. 

• 2-3 sundresses and maxi dresses
• 2-3 pair of shorts
• 3-5 tops (day & evening)
• 2-3 pair of dark jeans, capri pants or a skirt
• 2-3 smart casual dresses or Little Black Dress
• 1-2 fancy dresses or outfits
• 2 Bathing suits
• 2 Cover ups
• 2 shawls or cardigans
• gym shoes or comfortable walking shoes
• flip flops or sandals for the pool
• Heels or dressy flats for evening wear
• Wedge shoes or espadrilles for day or evening
• Evening bag or clutch
• Tote bag for cruise ship and excursion days

**Looking for a printable cruise travel planner to keep organized? See what’s included in the 47 page Ultimate Cruise Planner

Get The Ultimate Cruise Planner

Regular price: $27 now just $17.

This post contains affiliate links which means if you click and buy that I may make a commission, at no cost to you. Please see my disclosure policy for details.

Life Well Cruised is a participant in the Amazon Services in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.

Cruise Outfits for Ladies over 50

Cruise daywear.

On most cruises you can dress casually during the day, in shorts and a t-shirt, or a sundress. 

For port days, consider your shore excursion plans and decide what to wear. If you’re heading to a beach , a bathing suit and cover up are perfect. If you’re sightseeing, a cute top and shorts or a sundress or maxi dress is the way to go.

Casual Dresses – Sundresses &  Maxi Dresses

Casual spaghetti strap sundress.

This casual spaghetti strap sundress is comfortable and cute, and would make a great embarkation day outfit. If you want to pack light for a cruise , you could even wear this dress in the evening with accessories.

Recommended: Casual sundress (see pricing and Amazon reviews here)

Romper /shorts

This one piece romper is casual, but looks a little bit cruisey just the same. Great on the ship or to wear on port days . It’s available in this nautical stripe, as well as solid colors and is very affordable (shhhh).

Recommended: Nautical shorts romper (check price & amazing Amazon reviews here)

Maxi dresses

This striped maxi dress makes a great sundress or bathing suit cover up (that’s how I wear it). However, depending on the color or print, this maxi dress can look a bit more dressy.

Recommended: Maxi dress (see colors and pricing on Amazon) 

This spaghetti strap maxi dress is comfortable and casual for strolling on a port day , but will also look great in the evening on your cruise. Take a look at the different colors and patterns. My favorites are the black, navy floral, and boho.

However, I love a deep blue dress when I’m cruising, so I always pack at least one of this color. Please note that this dress runs a little small, so you may want to size up.

Recommended:  Cute maxi with pockets (see color options & pricing here)

Evening Wear on a Cruise

On a 7 day cruise, you’ll usually have 4-5 casual or smart casual evenings, sometimes called cruise casual. 2 evenings are usually formal or “chic” wear.

Casual & smart casual dress code:  Wear a stylish top and jeans, or Capri pants or a comfortable maxi dress. A little black dress or floral dress are great too.

Casual & Smart Casual Outfits on a Cruise

This beautiful floral dress is perfect cruise wear for the dining room or specialty restaurants . Loose fitting and stylish, (the v neck and 3/4 bell sleeves) it’s very flattering for women who are fabulous at 40 or 50!

This dress is available in very small to plus size, and in more than 20 solid colors and prints. It might be worth getting 2!

Recommended:   Ladies V neck shift dress (see colors & pricing here)

Elegant long maxi dress

This halter neck maxi dress is so pretty. Don’t forget to add a shawl for cool evenings on the cruise ship.

Recommended:  Cruise casual halter style maxi dress (see price & details on Amazon)

Off the shoulder top

Pair a pretty top with a pair of white capri pants or jeans for a casual evening on a cruise. This off the shoulder top comes in different color stripes as well as solids and other patterns.

Recommended: Pretty off the shoulder top (check thousands of 4.5 * reviews)

Resort style top

A loose short sleeve or bell sleeve top looks great with dark jeans or capri pants for a comfortable cruise casual look. This style is available in a “sexier” version with a spaghetti strap .

Recommended: Floral casual top (see variations & options here)

Capris, jeans or trousers

These days cruises are much more casual than in the past . Wearing nice capri pants or white or dark jeans in the evening will look great paired with a pretty top.

Recommended: White capri pants (with tummy support)

Plus size cruise casual dress

I love this pretty dress style that can be dressed up or down on a cruise. It’s available in several colors and so flattering. The black and navy blue version of this dress are simple and gorgeous!

Recommended:  Women Plus Size Dresses Short Sleeve Swing Dress with Pockets (check price here)  

Cruise wear doesn’t have to be a dress, even in the main dining room. Unless it’s a formal night, dark jeans and a top, capri pants or a jumpsuit are great outfits that feel chic and modern.

Romper jumpsuit

Isn’t this outfit cute? Women of every age will look elegantly casual in a romper jumpsuit . Dress it up or down with your favorite shoes.

Recommended:  Off the shoulder romper jumpsuit (check sizing, color options here)

Read: What to Wear on a Norwegian Cruise

Cruise Formal Night Outfits

Formal dress code: On most cruises you’ll have 1-2 formal nights, chic nights or “dress your best” nights. These cocktail dresses are beautiful and flattering for ladies over 40 or 50, but really for any age. Always check your cruise line dress code as a guide.

Cocktail Dresses

Long cocktail dress.

I love this long black evening dress , that is both simple and elegant (look at the side detail). It’s available in other colors as well, even red, if you want to stand out.

Recommended: Long elegant cocktail dress (see details and reviews on Amazon)

Mid length pencil dress

This pencil dress is perfect for formal night or smart casual evenings on a cruise, but isn’t too fancy that it can’t be worn at home.

Personally, I love the wine color, however the black, blue and red are gorgeous too!

Recommended:  Elegant evening short dress (see details & excellent reviews here)

Read: What to Wear on a Celebrity Cruise

Lace detail shift dress – Plus size cruise cruise wear

This lace detail short cocktail dress is a great dress for evenings on a cruise. It’s available in different colors and sizes, and a good option if you’re looking for plus size cruise wear.

Recommended: Plus size cruise cocktail dress (see price and Amazon reviews here)

Ladies Bathing Suits & Cover Ups

Bathing suit cover ups .

You’ll want to put on a bathing suit cover up when heading indoors on your cruise or to eat at one of the restaurants. Make sure to pack 2 cover ups, so you can change your look and always have a clean, dry one available. 

Swimsuit cover up dress

This stylish 3/4 length sleeve bathing suit cover up dress comes in black, white and beautiful tropical patterns. If you’re going on a Caribbean cruise, it’s perfect for beach excursions. 

Recommended: Loose fitting bathing suit cover up

Bikini wrap cover up

A short chiffon sarong wrap is a perfect cover up for bikinis or or one piece bathing suits. 

Recommended: Sheer wrap cover up (check colors & price on Amazon)

Versatile cover up

This v neck swimsuit cover up is very flattering over a one piece or bikini. I love the white cover up, however there are several different colors to choose from.

Recommended: Women’s swimwear cover up (popular amazon choice)  

Bathing suits

Make sure to pack at least 2 bathing suits for your cruise, so when one is wet the other is dry. 

Cupshe tummy control one piece swim suit

This one piece Cupshe brand bathing suit has tummy control and is very flattering on real women’s bodies. It’s also available in a few slightly different styles and colors.

Recommended: One piece tummy control swim suit (see styles & read over 3000 reviews)

One piece off the shoulder bathing suit

This attractive one piece off the shoulder bathing suit fits women of every age,  shape and size. See the color and pattern options available.

Tip – make sure to choose one size up for best fit (snug but comfortable)

Recommended: Off the shoulder one piece bathing suit (see 7000+ 4.5 star Amazon reviews)

Halter bathing suit swimdress

If you prefer a little more coverage, this halter top swimdress bathing suit is very flattering. It’s available in very small to plus size cruise wear.

Recommended: Halter top swimdress bathing suit (see amazing Amazon reviews here)

Related: 25 Best Selling Amazon Cruise Essentials

The Ultimate Cruise Planner

Do you need cruise packing lists, to-do checklists, shore excursion forms and more? Over the last year, I put together a 47 page cruise travel planner that has everything you need as you plan and get ready for your cruise.

Check out the Life Well Cruised Ultimate Cruise Planner . Plus, for a limited time, it’s $10 off. Hope you enjoy!

See details here: Ultimate Cruise Planner -What’s Included

Shawls, Sunhats and Accessories

It gets a bit cool on a cruise ship in the evening, between the air conditioning and the evening sea breeze. Make sure to bring along a shawl, scarf or cardigan or two – it’s really a must.

Pashmina shawl wrap

A pashmina shawl wrap will looks great over an evening dress. I like to have one in black and ivory, however it’s available in several colors. 

Recommended: Pashmina wrap shawl (check price here)

Make sure to bring a foldable sunhat on your cruise. Along with sunscreen and lip balm, a good sunhat is definitely a cruise essential .

Recommended: Ladies wide brim sunhat (see color options here)

Make sure to bring comfortable flip flops that you could actually walk in, whether on the cruise ship on sea days , or in a port of call. These Reef’s Cushion Sands Flip flops offer support, a cushioned sole and traction.

Recommended: Reef’s Cushion Sands flip flops (check price & Amazon reviews here)

Should you carry a purse on a cruise? 

You won’t need to carry a purse or wallet on a cruise. However, you may want to carry a casual tote bag to the pool, with your lip balm, sunscreen, reading glasses, a book, phone etc. It’s also great to have for when you get off the ship on a port day. In the evening, a small clutch or evening bag can hold your cruise card, cell phone and lipstick.

Read:  Best Cruise Luggage and Packing Accessories

Tote bag and Evening Bags for a Cruise

It’s a good idea to pack a clutch or small evening bag to wear to the dining room at night. Pack your cruise card, lipstick, pills and anything else you might need when out of your cabin.

A good tote bag is a must for a cruise! This large nautical beach bag will fit everything you need for a beach or pool day. I put together this post full of great tips for packing your shore excursion day bag .

Recommended: Nautical tote bag (check pricing & awesome Amazon reviews here)

Amazon Prime Wardrobe

I recently found out about Amazon Prime Wardrobe and it’s perfect for “trying on” cruise outfits. Here’s the information about this service if you’d like to find out more. Sign up is free if you’re a member of Amazon Prime .

Free 30 day Amazon Prime trial (benefits include faster shipping, Prime TV, borrow Kindle books and more).

Related posts:

Best Shoes to Pack for a Cruise

What to Pack for a Caribbean Cruise

15 Best Beauty Essentials to Pack for a Cruise

50 Most Recommended Items to Bring on a Cruise

27 Cruise Travel Hacks Repeat Cruisers Swear By

What Not to Wear on a Cruise; Rules and Guidelines

Final thoughts: Cruise Wear over 50

In this post we shared what to wear on a cruise when you’re over 50. However, always remember that how you dress isn’t determined by age. Wear what looks good on you, what you like, and most importantly, what makes you feel good!

When is your next cruise and do you enjoy shopping and planning your outfits to wear? Please let me know in the comments below.

Happy cruising!

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10 Comments

What? Are you planning a cruise around the world? The list you posted is way too much. No one needs all those clothes for a 7 day cruise. I have been on at least 50 cruises and less is more.

Everyone is different, so if you bring less than that’s great. Some people enjoy changing a couple of times a day while others are more minimalist. Thanks for sharing your thoughts.

Wow! You are over packing. With 50 plus cruises under my belt I’ve found 3 day outfits and three evening outfits, 1 or 2 bathing suits snd coverup, gym clothes if so inclined., flip flops for the pool, good walking shoes and some pretty Sandals. Underwater and that’s it!

We’re all different, but thanks for sharing your packing list and style.

Have a wonderful cruise!

Your choices are super cute, but this is definitely a heavy packing list — I say this so newbie cruisers won’t think this is all necessary. I made a list years ago of what I actually wore on a cruise, and now I keep it (laminated) to use for future trips:

– 2 casual dresses – White jeans and two blouses for dinner – 3 pairs shorts/skirts and 5 day blouses – Light denim shirt as a jacket for evening walks on deck – 2 swimsuits and a cover-up for each one – Nightgown – Ball cap and straw hat – Tennis shoes, walking sandals, wedges for dinner

Perfect! Thanks for sharing

Personally I pack way more than this! Especially if we are driving to the port. I pack less if we are flying and I have to drag my suitcase around. I’ve been on 14 cruises and I’m 53. For me, cruises are a chance to dress up! I love Lilly Pulitzer dresses and shorts because they are bright and cheerful. I love my packing cubes – they are life changing!

Sounds great!

I tend to take longer cruises. My next cruise in 2024 is 35 days. But even on a 14 day cruise my first purchase would be their laundry package. I find it a great value! I can leave my clothes to be cleaned and have them back the next day clean and pressed. Allows you to have only 3 days of casual clothes if you want. Really space saving if you are flying to the cruise port.

Great idea!

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