What to Wear on a Cruise: An Essential Guide
Published: 12 May 2025
Planning your first cruise? Or maybe you’re just not sure what to pack? Don’t worry you’re in the right place. Whether you’re sailing through the Caribbean or exploring Alaska’s coast, knowing what to wear makes a big difference.
Cruise ships often have different dress codes depending on the cruise line, the time of year, and the places you’ll visit. Some evenings might be casual, while others might call for something a little more dressed up. You’ll want to feel relaxed, prepared, and stylish without overpacking.
This guide will help you figure out what to wear on a cruise from daytime outfits to evening looks. It’s made for anyone who wants to pack smart, stay comfortable, and enjoy the trip without wardrobe worries.
What to Consider Before Packing
Before you start filling your suitcase, take a little time to plan. Not all cruises are the same. Some are fancy and formal, while others are laid-back and full of adventure. The places you’re going, the ship itself, and what you plan to do all play a role in what you should pack. Thinking ahead helps you bring the right clothes without stuffing your bag with things you won’t wear.
Know Your Cruise Type
Every cruise has its own vibe. Some are fancy with formal dinners, while others are made for fun, family, or adventure. Knowing your cruise type helps you decide whether to pack dressy clothes, comfy gear, or a little of both.
- Luxury cruises may require evening wear, like cocktail dresses or dress shirts.
- Family-friendly cruises are mostly casual but may have themed nights or casual dinners.
- Adventure cruises focus on activities like hiking, kayaking, or exploring nature pack comfortable, weather-appropriate gear.
- Check your cruise line’s website or booking details for specific dress codes.
Think About the Weather
Where you’re going and when makes a big difference. Tropical cruises call for light clothing, while cold-weather cruises require layers and warmth.
- Tropical cruises (like the Caribbean or Bahamas) mean shorts, T-shirts, swimsuits, and sandals.
- Cool-weather cruises (like Alaska or Norway) need jackets, sweaters, scarves, and waterproof shoes.
- Always check the weather forecast for each stop so you can dress comfortably for every day.
Activities on Board and On Shore
Cruises offer a wide mix of things to do, so your clothes should match your plans. Think about swimming, dining, exploring, or even dancing under the stars!
- For swimming and sunbathing: Swimsuits, cover-ups, flip-flops, and sun hats.
- For formal dinners: A dress or dress shirt with slacks and dress shoes.
- For shore excursions: Comfy walking shoes, lightweight clothes, and a day bag or backpack.
- For onboard lounging: Casual outfits like shorts, T-shirts, and sandals.
- Create a simple day-by-day packing list based on your cruise itinerary to stay organized.
Daytime Cruise Outfits
During the day, most cruise outfits are casual and all about comfort. You’ll spend your time relaxing by the pool, walking around the ship, or heading off to explore at different ports. That means you’ll want clothes that are easy to move in, breathable, and suited to both sun and adventure. Let’s break it down so you know exactly what to wear.
Casual Outfits for Onboard Relaxing
When you’re hanging out on the ship by the pool, grabbing lunch, or enjoying a drink you’ll want to wear simple, comfy clothes that keep you cool.
- Swimsuits and cover-ups are perfect for lounging near the water.
- T-shirts, tank tops, shorts, and sundresses work great for walking around the ship.
- Choose light, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen to stay comfortable in the sun.
- Tip: Don’t forget sunscreen and a wide-brim hat to protect your skin during sunny afternoons.
Shore Excursion Wear
When your ship docks and you head out to explore, your outfit should match the activity whether it’s strolling through a local town or walking along the beach.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes or sandals with good support.
- Bring a hat and sunglasses for sun protection.
- A light backpack or tote bag is handy for carrying water, sunscreen, and souvenirs.
- Choose outfits that are cool and casual, but still look neat if you’re going into shops or restaurants.
Evening and Dinner Outfits
Evenings on a cruise feel a bit more special. While the daytime is all about relaxing, dinner time often calls for a little more effort. You don’t need to dress up like you’re going to a wedding, but it’s nice to look neat and put-together. Some nights are casual, and others might be formal so it’s good to pack for both.
Smart Casual Evenings
Most dinners on a cruise follow a “smart casual” dress code. That just means clothes that are clean, neat, and a step above beachwear.
- For men: Polo shirts, button-down shirts, khakis, or dressy shorts work well.
- For women: Maxi dresses, nice blouses, skirts, or tailored pants are great options.
- No swimwear, flip-flops, or tank tops in the main dining areas at night.
- Bring a light sweater or jacket, dining rooms can feel chilly due to air conditioning.
Formal Night or Gala Dinners
Some cruises host one or two “formal nights” where dressing up is encouraged. It’s a fun excuse to look your best, but it doesn’t have to be over-the-top.
- A cocktail dress or a dressy blouse with a skirt is perfect for women.
- Men can wear slacks with a button-down shirt or even a blazer if they like.
- Formal night is optional on many cruises if it’s not your style, you can usually eat in a more casual venue on the ship.
What Not to Forget
It’s easy to focus on outfits and forget the little extras that make your cruise smoother and more comfortable. These small items can make a big difference during your trip—especially when you’re dealing with changing weather, lots of walking, or sunny days at sea. Pack smart by including a few essentials that will keep you ready for anything without overloading your suitcase.
- Light jacket or sweater – Even if you’re headed somewhere warm, it can get breezy at night or chilly inside air-conditioned areas like restaurants and theaters.
- Flip flops and walking shoes – Flip flops are great for the pool or beach, but you’ll want comfortable walking shoes for shore excursions or long walks around the ship.
- Reusable water bottle – Staying hydrated is important, especially on hot days. Bringing your own bottle helps you refill easily and avoid using extra plastic.
- Swimwear (at least 2 sets) – Having more than one swimsuit means you’ll always have a dry one ready to wear, especially if you’re swimming or sunbathing every day.
- Sunglasses and hats – Protect your eyes and face from the sun. A wide-brim hat is great for extra shade when you’re out on deck or exploring ports.
Packing Tip:
To save space and avoid wrinkles, try rolling your clothes instead of folding them. It keeps things neat and gives you more room in your suitcase.
Cruise Fashion Tips
When it comes to cruise fashion, less is often more. The goal is to keep your wardrobe simple, comfortable, and easy to mix and match. After all, cruises are all about relaxing, so you don’t want to stress over complicated outfits or overpacked suitcases. Follow these tips to make packing and getting dressed easy and enjoyable.
- Keep it simple and comfortable – Cruises are laid-back, so you want clothes that allow you to move freely. Choose pieces that are comfortable for both relaxing on deck and exploring ports.
- Choose mix-and-match pieces – Packing items that can be combined in different ways helps you create more outfits with fewer clothes. For example, a pair of shorts can work with a T-shirt during the day, then switch to a nice blouse for dinner.
- Don’t overpack laundry is often available onboard – Many cruise ships offer laundry services, so you don’t need to bring enough clothes for every single day. You can always wash and rewear items.
- Pick wrinkle-free fabrics – Clothes that wrinkle easily can be a hassle to deal with on a cruise. Fabrics like cotton blends, polyester, and jersey are great options because they stay smooth and need little to no ironing.
Packing Tip:
If you want to minimize wrinkles, roll your clothes as mentioned before and choose clothes that are naturally wrinkle-resistant. This will make your trip stress-free, and you’ll always look fresh.
Cruise Outfit FAQs
1. What do most people wear on a cruise?
Most people wear casual, comfortable clothes during the day, like swimsuits, T-shirts, shorts, and sundresses. In the evening, the dress code can vary from casual to smart casual or formal, depending on the night. It’s always a good idea to check your cruise line’s guidelines to be prepared.
2. What is the dress code for cruises?
Cruise dress codes range from casual to formal depending on the cruise line and activities. During the day, casual outfits like swimsuits and shorts are fine. For dinners, expect smart casual or formal options, especially on gala nights.
3. What clothes do you need for a cruise?
You’ll need a mix of casual outfits for daytime and dressier clothes for dinners or formal nights. Be sure to pack swimwear, comfortable shoes, and layers for cooler evenings. Don’t forget accessories like hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
4. What should I wear on my first night on a cruise?
For your first night, you can usually wear something casual, like a polo shirt or sundress, especially if you’re just getting settled. If your cruise has a formal night, you might want to wear a nice outfit for dinner, such as a cocktail dress or button-down shirt. Check the ship’s schedule to know what’s planned for the evening.
5. Can I wear jeans on a cruise?
Yes, jeans are perfectly fine for casual activities during the day or for dinner on most cruises. However, avoid wearing jeans in formal dining areas on gala nights. Opt for something a little dressier if you’re attending special events or formal dinners.
Conclusion
Knowing what to wear on a cruise doesn’t have to be stressful. The key is to keep it comfortable and plan ahead so you’re ready for any activity, whether it’s lounging by the pool or enjoying a fancy dinner. With a little thought, you’ll have everything you need to feel great throughout your trip.
Remember, a cruise is all about relaxing and having fun, so don’t overthink your wardrobe. Pack smart, choose versatile pieces, and enjoy your cruise in style and confidence. What’s your go-to vacation outfit?
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- Be Respectful
- Stay Relevant
- Stay Positive
- True Feedback
- Encourage Discussion
- Avoid Spamming
- No Fake News
- Don't Copy-Paste
- No Personal Attacks
