Sharon Taylor, a frequent cruiser, told Business Insider that first-timers should avoid overpacking.
“New cruisers think cruising is a fashion show and pack way too many clothes and shoes, but you wind up just wanting to be comfortable,” she said.
For her seven-night cruise on board the Wonder of the Seas, Taylor said she packed six tops, four pairs of shorts, two pairs of shoes, one formal outfit, two bathing suits, and eight pairs of underwear. She planned to buy two more tops on the trip.
Paul Gallifrey, who told Business Insider in 2022 that he’d been on 30 cruises, said to pack what you need for the length of the cruise and add an extra outfit just in case.
“Maybe you decide to change clothes between pool time and the buffet,” Gallifrey said. “An extra shirt and pair of shorts will come in handy.”
Gallifrey added that some activities on ships and excursions require specific clothing, such as lace-up shoes for zip lining. Check the cruise line’s website for these requirements and pack accordingly.
