Sail in style: The ultimate cruise outfits packing list for every adventure 2024 - Travel Meets Style (2024)

If you’re reading this post, that means you’re likely headed on a cruise (yay!). However, that also means it’s time to start navigating the seas of packing, which, as we know, can sometimes be a daunting task that might make you want to jump overboard. This is where I come in!

I’ve been lucky enough to go on several cruises over the years with both family and friends, and I also live in Florida, where basically every day feels like the endless summer, so I’d say I’m pretty qualified when it comes to resort wear.

In this post, I’m going to be sharing the ultimate packing list for cruise to Caribbean, including what to pack for a 5 day cruise, what to wear on a cruise to the Bahamas, cruise outfit ideas for every adventure, and everything in between. Plus, I’ve got you covered with a FREE cruise packing list printablebelow. Bon Voyage!

Need some additional help packing? Check out these related reads!

• The ultimate beach vacation packing list
• Jetsetter’s guide: Must have carry on essentials for effortless travel
• Pack like a pro: 20+ must-have travel essentials for every trip
• How to use the best packing cubes for travel

• Research your cruise itinerary. Before you start packing, familiarize yourself with the ports of call and onboard activities scheduled for your cruise. Knowing the destinations you’re visiting and any planned events will help you pack accordingly for both.

• Bring any important documents onboard with you. This may be a no-brainer, but make sure you have your ID, passport, and any cruise documentation readily available when checking in for your cruise. Do not pack these items in your checked bag, or you will likely be unable to board your cruise.

• Dress for the occasion. Most cruise ships have a variety of dining options ranging from casual to formal, so be sure to pack appropriate outfits for each setting. I would also check to see if your cruise has a Captain’s dinner, which typically requires more formal attire, and if any themed events are going on that you would need special outfits for.

• Pack versatile clothing. Cruise cabins can be cozy, and storage space may be limited, so it’s essential to pack efficiently. I personally recommend packing mostly neutral colors that you can mix and match with a few accent colors that express your own personal style. Make sure to check out some of my outfit suggestions below!

• Opt for lightweight clothing. Like any trip you go on, it’s always important to check the weather before you begin packing. Most cruises are usually headed somewhere tropical, so I recommend bringing lightweight clothing that’s breathable (like linen) and will dry quickly. Denim is definitely a no bueno!

• Maximize your carry on bag. Your checked luggage may not be delivered right away, so be sure to pack a small carry-on bag with essentials like medications, sunscreen, a swimsuit, and any valuables. This will ensure that you can start enjoying your vacation as soon as you board the ship!

• Don’t forget to put a luggage tag on your checked bag. If you want your checked bag to be delivered to the right cabin, make sure to print and properly fill out the luggage tags that your cruise line provides (here’s a clear holder for them, too). I would also include a regular luggage tag on your bag as a precautionary measure, and it wouldn’t hurt to include anAirTagso you can track the status!

• There’s no such thing as too much sun protection. You’ll likely be spending most of your time outside, whether you’re lounging on deck or exploring the ports, so it’s important to have sunscreen on hand at all times. I also recommend packing a straw hat for additional protection and even some sun shirts if you have fair skin (like me).

• Bring seasickness remedies. If you tend to get seasick, I recommend packing Dramamine and motion sickness bands or patches. Most cruise shipshave a small convenience store and will likely have these items available for purchase, but it’s always a good idea to bring your own, just in case.

• Pack power strips and chargers. As mentioned, most cruise ships can be quite cozy and have limited power outlets, so a power strip will definitely come in handy for charging all your devices. Click here to shop my favorite one from Amazon, whichhas both plugs and USB outlets.

• Utilize packing organization products. I recommend packing organization products for any trip (packing cubes are my jam), but they are especially helpful on cruises due to limited storage and cabin space. Not only will packing cubes help you pack more efficiently and avoid overpacking, but they will also allow you to categorize your items, making it much easier to find what you’re looking for.

• Items you didn’t know you needed. Some other random items on cruises that are helpful to have include a refillable water bottle, a lanyard to hold your cruise ID, and magnets with hooks for additional storage in your cabin. Towel clips and a waterproof pouch are also great beach accessories to carry in your beach bag!

one piece swimsuit | bikini top | bikini bottom | beach coverup | graphic tee | basic tanks | printed shorts | blouse | denim shorts | striped button down | striped shorts | linen pants | casual dress | co*cktail dress | tennis dress | jumpsuit | romper | formal dress | heels | black sandals | tan sandals | crossbody bag | clutch | sneakers | straw hat | beach bag | black sunglasses | ray ban sunglasses | sunscreen

• 3-5 swimsuits and cover ups. Depending on the length of your cruise, I recommend packing a mix of one piece swimsuits and two piece swimsuits that can be worn both onboard and on any excursions planned. For coverups, I typically pack dresses that I can also wear for any daytime activities, and I usually bring a pair of linen pants and shorts to wear over my swimsuits, too.

• Casual outfits for daytime activities or excursions. During the day, I recommend keeping it pretty casual and wearing comfortable dresses that you can throw on over your swimsuit or wear with a cute pair of sneakers or sandals. I also love packing rompers or two piece sets on vacation that you can dress up or down, and you can never go wrong with a basic top and some linen shorts for the daytime.

• Formal outfits for dinner and evening events. Unless you’re planning on eating at the buffet every night, most specialty restaurants and the main dining room will probably enforce a more formal dress code for dinner. Women will likely be required to wear a dress, skirt, or a nice blouse with pants, and men will be informed to wear a collared shirt and pants. On formal nights, it’s even dressier, and co*cktail dresses and sports coats will be permitted.

• Lightweight jacket or sweater for cooler evenings. It can get windy onboard and chilly at night, so I always recommend packing a light jacket or shawl in case you run into unexpected weather changes. If you’re someone who’s always cold, you’ll probably want an additional layer to wear inside, too!

• Workout clothes if you plan to use the gym. I’m not typically one of those people who likes to workout on vacation (haha), but if you are, I recommend bringing a few workout outfits, as most cruises do have a fitness center and classes available. It also wouldn’t hurt to bring comfortable activewear (tennis dresses are my fave) for any excursions planned that might require a lot of walking.

• Pajamas and loungewear. Of course, there will be those nights when you just want to hang in and order room service, so don’t forget to pack comfy clothes! I always like to bring some fun tropical pajamas on a cruise and typically pack a few lounge sets if I’m planning on laying low. Make sure to check out my Amazon store for lots of travel outfit ideas!

• Sunglasses. My go-to sunglasses are always the Ray-Ban round metal sunglasses, and I also like to bring a pair or two of fun sunglasses. Revolve always has a great selection, and you can never go wrong with sunglasses from Amazon.

• Straw hat. My all-time favorite straw hat is from Brixton. It has a wide brim for extra coverage, and it fits amazing. PACKING TIP: If you plan on packing a straw hat in your suitcase, make sure to stuff the inside with clothes and layer clothes around it for extra support. You can also clip your hat onto your carry-on bag if you prefer not to pack it in your suitcase.

• Beach bag. It’s always a good idea to pack a beach bag or some kind of tote that you can use on sea days to carry sunscreen and any other cruise essentials. I’m currently obsessed with this crocheted tote from Tory Burch, and I also love Mark & Graham’s personalized beach bags,too!

• Backpack. For port days, I always like to carry a backpack with me for water, beach essentials, and any souvenirs I end up buying. My absolute favorite backpack is the Fjallraven Kanken mini backpack. It’s small but still fits a lot, is lightweight, and is easy to clean.

• Purse or clutch. In addition to a backpack, I’ll typically bring a cute crossbody bag for port days if I want to switch it up, and I’ll also bring some kind of clutch or small bag to match my dinner outfits for cruise. I always like to have my phone readily available for pictures!

• Flip flops or sandals for sea days. When it comes to shoes for my summer cruise outfits, I keep it pretty basic. I’ll bring a pair of flip flops or jelly sandals for the pool and a pair of casual sandals for any daytime cruise vacation outfits. I especially love these ones from Schutz because they can be dressed up or down!

• Comfortable walking shoes for excursions. If you have excursions planned, don’t forget to bring a pair of comfortable shoes! Some excursions (like zip lining) will also require closed-toe shoes, so it’s always a good idea to pack a pair, just in case. I personally love these platform sneakers from Adidas because they look really cute with all kinds of outfits, including dresses!

• Formal shoes for dinner. Don’t forget to pack a dressier pair of shoes, like heels or wedges, for dinner or any formal night cruise outfits. I love these ones from Dolce Vita because they are comfortable and look cute with both casual and formal cruise ship outfits for ladies.

As mentioned, cruise cabins can be quite cozy and have limited closet space, so I recommend bringing magnetic hooks and over-the-door hooks for additional storage. These are great for hanging lightweight clothing, swimsuits, or accessories.

As far as travel essentials, packing cubes are great for keeping your belongings organized, especially since there is not a lot of drawer space on cruises. I also recommend bringing a hanging toiletry bag if you can, as there is typically limited bathroom counter and storage space.

Some of my other favorite travel accessories I always bring (no matter where I’m traveling) include a luggage scale, travel steamer, LED travel mirror, and travel laundry bag. You’re also allowed to bring one bottle of wine or champagne on board so don’t forget your wine opener!

If you want to be THOSE PEOPLE on the cruise who wear matching outfits (don’t worry, I’ve done it too, haha), whether it’s with your significant other, family, or friends, below are a couple of places to find them!

• Etsy is always my go-to place for ANYTHING personalized! This is a great place to shop for matching bachelorette cruise shirts, family reunion shirts, or Mr and Mrs cruise shirts. Etsy also has a great selection of cruise accessories, whether you’re looking for matching cups, lanyards, hats, or anything in between.

• Kenny Flowers is another great place to look for couples cruise outfits (or vacation outfits) that are a little more trendy. They even have matching family outfitswith kids sizes starting at 3M and you can also shop by destination on their website if you’re looking for something specific!

Now that we’ve covered what to wear on a cruise ship, we obviously have to talk about cruise outfits I wouldn’t recommend wearing. For starters, speedos and thong bikinis are a no, especially if you’re on a cruise that’s family-friendly, and I honestly wouldn’t pack anything overly revealing in general.Additionally, I would avoid wearing anything with offensive language or graphics for this same reason.

I’ve already gone into a lot of detail about what to wear to dinner on a cruise, but as a reminder, I would stray away from wearing shorts, sandals, swimwear, gym clothes, baseball hats, or anything else you would wear during the day to the dining room.

I’ve also read that it’s not a good idea to wear anything camouflage off the cruise ship, as it’s disrespectful and even illegal in certain countries.