What to Wear for Cruise Vacation

If you want to cruise in style, you need the right clothes for every occasion. Packing a few versatile pieces for your cruise will help you avoid overloading your suitcase (and the limited closet space in your cabin) while ensuring you look fit for all events.

Although most cruise lines outline their recommended dress codes in the FAQ sections of their websites, be sure to check the specific details of your cruise itinerary. Your cruise wardrobe will depend not only on the destination and weather, but also on whether you will need formal attire for evening events, costumes for themed parties, or special clothing and footwear for shore excursions.

Whether lounging by the pool or heading to a glamorous dinner, our list of must-have items and expert styling tips will help you dress perfectly for your next cruise.

What to Wear on a Cruise: Daytime, Formal Nights & More

What to Wear During the Day

For warm-weather cruises, pack T-shirts, tank tops, and other mix-and-match clothing pieces. In cooler climates, opt for pants and jeans. Luxury cruise ships tend to have stricter dress codes, while expedition vessels allow a more casual approach.

When packing, don't forget about shore excursions. For example, you may need clothing that covers your shoulders and knees to visit a mosque or a hat, sturdy shoes, and socks for trekking through the rainforest.

How to Know the Evening Dress Code

Each cruise line has its evening dress code. Evenings are generally categorized as casual or formal, but the specifics vary depending on the cruise line and dining venue (buffet vs. restaurant). Some cruise lines use unique dress code terms that can be a bit confusing, such as smart casual, casual elegance, cruise casual, or resort casual. Essentially, they all mean the same thing – dress like you're going out to a restaurant on land: not too casual, but not too formal either.

Most cruise lines also provide specific recommendations and restrictions for both men and women.

How to Dress for a Formal Night?

Attire for formal nights is more about personal preference than a strict requirement. Formal evening wear can range from cocktail dresses and dark suits to glamorous gowns and tuxedos. If you prefer not to dress up, consider skipping the main dining room and specialty restaurants on formal nights and opt for dining at the buffet instead.

Should You Pack Outfits for Theme Nights?

Theme nights are common on cruise ships, but participation is optional—sometimes it's just fun to watch. If you enjoy dressing up, check your cruise itinerary in advance to prepare accordingly.

Different cruise lines host various themed events, such as Pirate Night (Disney Cruise Line), White Party (Norwegian Cruise Line), Love Boat Disco Party (Princess Cruises), and Prohibition Party (Royal Caribbean). Outfits range from simple accessories like flashy hats and sunglasses to full costumes. If you missed the memo or changed your mind, some ships sell themed accessories on board.

Where Can You Wear a Swimsuit?

Swimsuits are not allowed in most public areas, including some outdoor spaces. Buffets tend to be more lenient. You can dine in your swimsuit in outdoor lounge areas, but you must wear a cover-up when standing in line for food.

Do You Need a Jacket for a Warm-Weather Cruise?

Even on summer cruises or trips to tropical destinations like the Caribbean or the South Pacific, it's helpful to have a warm layer for unexpectedly chilly or rainy days or overly air-conditioned indoor spaces. Jackets can take up a lot of space in your suitcase, so consider packing a blazer, a wool cardigan, or a lightweight fleece jacket.

Are Shorts and Jeans Allowed in the Main Dining Room?

Many cruise lines allow jeans in the main dining room, but shorts are generally prohibited. (Carnival and Norwegian Line are among the few cruise companies that permit shorts at dinner in the main dining room.) Dress codes are more relaxed for breakfast and lunch, and you can typically wear shorts in the main dining room until 6:00 PM.

What Shoes Should You Bring on a Cruise?

Pack comfortable shoes for every occasion. Flip-flops and loafers are great daytime options for warm-weather cruises, but flip-flops are not allowed in the main dining room or specialty restaurants for dinner. Avoid wearing high-heeled sandals on the pool deck. Sneakers or other sturdy walking shoes are best for tours and active shore excursions. You may also need sneakers for the fitness center. In the evening, women should opt for comfortable heels, sandals, or ballet flats, while loafers or closed-toe shoes are a good choice for men.

Can You Buy Clothes on a Cruise If You Forget Something?

Most cruise ships have onboard stores where you can buy clothing, shoes (typically sandals and flip-flops), or accessories you may have forgotten. However, the selection is limited. If you're particular about your choices, it's best to wait until you reach a port and shop there for what you need.

Can You Do Laundry Onboard to Avoid Packing Too Much Clothing?

Most cruise lines, including luxury and river cruises, offer laundry services onboard. The prices generally depend on the type of clothing and can vary by cruise line. You'll typically pay between $2 and $8 for a shirt or blouse unless you participate in a loyalty program that includes laundry services. Some cruise lines even provide self-service laundromats on their ships.

How Many Outfits to Pack?

It depends on your personal preferences—whether you like to wear clothes multiple times or prefer packing more outfits and changing throughout the day. A good option is to focus on versatility—bring tops and bottoms that are easy to mix and match, or shirts that can be dressed up for the evening and worn more casually the next day. Bring more than one swimsuit if you plan on swimming a lot. It's also a good idea to pack an extra evening outfit or two, as you may change your mind about what to wear once you're onboard.

Do You Dress Up Every Night on a Cruise?

Choosing what to wear for the evening on a cruise can be a lot of fun! You don't have to worry about it being boring, overdone, or too much. The evening is the time for everyone to showcase their best selves. It's also the perfect opportunity to demonstrate how stylish you can be. Check if your cruise offers a formal night by looking at your itinerary, then plan accordingly. Here are some ideas for women on how to dress for the evening on a cruise.

● What kind of evening dress? Most cruises expect you to wear an evening dress, but the description of what qualifies as such can vary. Choose a dress that makes you feel comfortable. A cocktail-style dress is usually formal enough for most cruises.

● Don't want to wear a dress? For women who prefer not to wear a gown or evening dress, a tailored women's suit can be a great option. You should dress up, but a pantsuit may be acceptable if it's considered elegant. A chic blouse paired with dress trousers also works well.

● Accessorize with jewelry. Most people don't bring too much jewelry when traveling, but certain pieces can help elevate many outfits. Choose classic items like pearl earrings, diamond necklaces, or perhaps a beautiful watch.

● Shoes matter too. While packing sneakers for all your cruise shore excursions, you should also bring along a pair of comfortable yet stylish heels or ballet flats to wear in the evening. You might be dancing, so don't forget comfort when selecting your pair.

What not to wear？

When it comes to deciding what to wear for an evening on a cruise, there are a few things you should avoid:

● Don't wear shorts, t-shirts, or other beach/swimwear during formal nights.

● Don't forget your hair. You may want to style it, especially for the evening.

● Don't remove your sweater unless it's really cold.

● Avoid wearing sneakers or sandals unless they match your outfit.

● Denim shorts, jeans, or casual clothes are not allowed in the dining rooms.

Knowing what to wear for an evening party on a cruise can help you plan for a stylish and elegant night that will be an unforgettable part of your cruise vacation.