How To Pack for a Cruise

Know how large your room is. The exact size of your room, in square feet as well as a map of the layout, is usually available in most of the materials given to you by the cruise line. Most lines will also have that information on their website. Knowing the size will tell you how large your suitcase should be. For small, narrow room, using a few smaller bags will be preferable to having one large suitcase that will impede movement. Some rooms have closets so shallow that a large suitcase will not fit inside.

Check the weather in the ports you will be visiting. A long cruise will have several stops, many of which will be in very different climates. With a longer cruise, it will be necessary to pack appropriate clothing for all of these climates. Check online for the average temperature during the time of year you will be visiting. When it gets closer to departure time, check for the specific forecast for that time.

Follow local customs. If you will be visiting a foreign country, be sure you understand what you will be expected to wear. In many countries, tourists may not wear shorts to visit historic churches. In others, women will be expected to cover their hair. Be sure to pack the appropriate clothing in order to respect the place you will be visiting -- and to avoid any unnecessary trouble.

Remember any medications you may need. Be sure you have enough of your prescription medications to last the duration of the trip without needing a refill. But, also think about any over-the-counter medications you might need. Pack aspirin if you're prone to headaches, allergy medication if you suffer from allergies and will be visiting warm climates. Also pack a nausea or motion sickness medication in case you have trouble adjusting to the constant motion of the ship.

Read your cruise information and find out the dress code. Many ships have a strict dinner dress code. Some have formal nights that require black tie attire. If your ship has this code, you will have to pack something to meet the requirements. If your ship is more casual, there may be no requirements at all. If the cruise information doesn't mention a dress code, call the cruise line and ask.