My first cruise and what I packed!
I compiled this list of what I recommend you pack for your first cruise since I went on my first Mediterranean cruise this year and could not find a proper list online!
Let’s be honest, if you are planning a cruise your key goal is to relax, but there are some things you can pack to make your cruise that little bit more enjoyable.
So, here’s what to pack for a European cruise, based on things I used (and the things I wished I had packed!).
Essentials to pack for your cruise!
Medication & Sunscreen: Obviously if there is any medication you usually take that should be top of your list! Other medications that I highly recommend you pack are painkillers, cold and flu, and also Vitamin C. If you plan on making full use of the open bar like we did some magnesium wouldn’t go a miss! My husband came down with a cold on our third day, and the stuff we packed was all put to good use! Sunscreen, sunscreen, sunscreen. Factors 30 to 50 should not be overlooked. You’ll thank me later!
Bonus: Pack some plasters in case you get blisters on the excursions!
Hairdryer or Dyson: Although your room should come with a built-in hairdryer (some don’t so be sure to check) they are not the most powerful and it could take up some valuable cocktail time. I took my Dyson Airwrap Complete Long and it took me no more than 30 minutes to get completely ready. Another perk of the Dyson Airwrap is the versatility you get from having the different attachments.
Tote bag/backpack: For some cruises, everybody is given a bag to use on board and during excursions however we were not so lucky. I highly recommend bringing one with you for the days off the ship if you wish to purchase souvenirs or carry around some water to stay hydrated!
Cardigan/light jumper: Although my cruise was peak season in summer, I regret not bringing some form of layer! The AC in the interior is always working overtime, so if you are like me and not an AC fan pack a cardi!!
Swimwear: The majority of cruise ships have a swimming pool and/or spa on board, so it is important to pack your swimwear! During the days at sea you will probably spend a fair amount of time by the pool. I also packed some coverups for going to the bar or grabbing a snack to eat.
Sunglasses: I packed a variety of 3 of my favourite Mvintage sunnies and I am so glad I did. They came in hand on the deck and by the pool.
Gym clothing: Even if you don’t have any plan to use the gym on board, you may want to attend a Pilates or yoga class one morning. I did not use the gym, but my husband was happy he had some time to work out on the at sea days. The trainers/gym shoes could come in useful for excursion days also.
Refillable water bottle: This is one thing I wish I’d packed! Although most of the machines say you aren’t allowed to fill water bottles, you can always take a cup of water to the table and fill it there!
Most importantly save wasting plastic by bringing a refillable water bottle.
Power Bank: This is most importanton shore days! If you are like me and want to capture every moment of the vacation, you could drain the battery quite quickly. It is important not to be back late from the shore day as the ship will NOT wait for you. If you don’t have a power bank then be sure to pack a watch!
An adapter: Even though you’re in a particular part of the world, it doesn’t mean the plug sockets will be the ones that you are used to. In Malta, we use 3 pins (rectangular like in the UK) however our ship was Italy-registered and had mainly 2 pin sockets. A bonus about our cruise ship was that it had the USB sockets on the bedside table.
If you want to be safe, I advise you to pack a multi-way adapter like we did. We don’t travel without one!
Towels: This is an essential item that will be provided for you by the cruise. So, you certainly don’t need to pack towels. This is one of the items I packed and did not need! Pool and bathroom towels are provided on the ship, so you don’t need to bring one.
Themed nights on board
- Day one: White Night
- Day two: Etna skyline – Red and Black
- Day three: Casual attire
- Day four; Total Black with fluorescent accessories
- Day five: 70s Night
- Day six: Rock Night
- Day seven: Elegant attire
Obviously the themed nights will vary per ship and this is just to give you an idea.
Above is a checklist you can print and use for your trip <3
Have a wonderful vacation!