Planning a cruise can be exciting, and packing for it doesn't need to be stressful, according to travel expert Elaine Warren, founder of The Family Cruise Companion. She shared her top tips with Express.co.uk to help cruisers pack smart and avoid common mistakes.
Warren emphasised the importance of not overthinking the basics. Swimsuits and cover-ups are essential, but there's no need to pack towels as they are provided onboard. For a seven-day cruise, she suggested packing a few swimsuits rather than just one, as passengers will be in and out of the pool or visiting beaches. Sun protection is also a must, with hats, sunglasses, and a good SPF topping the list for days out on deck.
For clothing, Warren recommended wrinkle-free fabrics or rolling clothes instead of folding them to minimise creases, as irons are generally not available in cruise cabins. Dinner attire requires some planning: two formal outfits are usually enough for fancy evenings, along with a few casual options for the rest of the trip. Comfortable outfits for excursions are also a must. She also stressed the importance of keeping your phone safe, suggesting a crossbody lanyard to prevent it from slipping out of pockets or being caught by the wind on deck.
As for what to leave at home, Warren advised against bulky sports equipment like surfboards or drones, as they are often prohibited or difficult to store. Items like toy weapons are banned for safety reasons, and heating appliances such as irons and hot plates are a fire hazard. Finally, she urged passengers to be prepared for seasickness: 'Even if you don't think you'll need it, bring medication for seasickness. It's better to have it just in case, and don't wait until you're feeling queasy – buy it ahead of time.'
