Semih
Travel editor at Reisedrop · 2026-09-15
You pack differently for a cruise than for a beach holiday: you’ll need a pool-deck outfit, shoes for going ashore and – depending on the cruise line – something smart for gala night. Here’s the honest list, including the five things that almost everyone forgets.
The basics: day, evening, going ashore
During the day on board, it’s all about pool mode: swimwear (two sets – one is always wet), flip-flops, sun hat. In the evening, traditional cruise lines usually expect «smart casual», with a shirt or dress for one or two gala evenings. For shore excursions: well-worn, comfortable shoes – the cobbles in Dubrovnik won’t forgive brand-new trainers.
The five forgotten items
First: a power strip without surge protection – cabins are notoriously short on sockets. Second: magnetic hooks – cabin walls are metal, and suddenly everything has its place. Third: a small day bag for shore excursions. Fourth: travel sickness tablets (even for people who «never get seasick»). Fifth: swimwear in your hand luggage – your big suitcase may not reach your cabin until hours after you do.
What you do NOT need to pack
A hairdryer and shower gel are provided in every cabin, and you can borrow beach towels free of charge by the pool. Irons, by the way, are banned on board for fire safety reasons – crease-resistant clothing is the answer. And drones are better left at home altogether: they’re prohibited on most ships.
The paperwork
Passport (essential for non-EU ports), vaccination and insurance cards, a credit card for your on-board account and the cruise line’s boarding documents. A classic Swiss one: your Half Fare Travelcard is useless at sea, but very handy for the train journey to Genoa.
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