What to Pack for a European Cruise: The Ultimate Packing Guide
Packing for a European cruise can feel like solving a puzzle with too many pieces. If you've ever wondered what to pack for a European cruise, you're not alone! You picture the Mediterranean coastline, warm sunshine, cobblestone streets, and yourself standing in a pretty flowered dress by the sea. Then you remember your itinerary also stops in Amsterdam where you might need layers or a rain jacket. The climates, cultures, and cruise experiences can change from one port to the next, so it is no wonder packing feels overwhelming.
Why it matters: packing for Europe is different from packing for the Caribbean. Cobblestones, trains, smaller cars, and strict airline limits all play a part. A smart plan means comfort, fewer hassles, and more time enjoying your trip.
If you are still in planning mode, my European Cruise Guide, European Cruise Preparation Checklist and Cruise Prep and Pre-Packing Guide pair perfectly with this post and will keep you organized from your very first packing pile.
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Key Takeaways
- Pack smart, not heavy. Europe means stairs, cobblestones, trains, and smaller cars that make giant bags a pain.
- Use a tight color palette and wrinkle resistant fabrics. Plan outfits that mix and match.
- Bring layers for shifting climates across the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, and the British Isles.
- Check your cruise line’s current dress codes and prohibited items before you pack.
- Add your ports to a weather app one week before you sail and tweak your final list accordingly.
Start with the Right Luggage and a Realistic Strategy
Europe means cobblestone streets, small elevators, tight taxis, and narrow train aisles. Nothing screams tourist more than juggling a giant hard sided suitcase, an overstuffed carry on, and a backpack through all of that. Transfer drivers will even ask how many bags you have, since European cars and vans are often smaller.
After more than a few stair workouts with my suitcase, my sweet spot is a 26 inch spinner and a backpack. I do not typically bring a separate hard sided carry on. The backpack slides under the seat and doubles as my daypack for flights and excursions.
Start your pre-packing pile as soon as you book. I use a corner of the guest room and set aside anything I know I will want to take. A few weeks before the trip, lay it all out and edit. One pair of pants should work with at least two or three tops. If an outfit is single use, it usually does not make the cut unless it is for a theme night. If you want step by step structure, my Cruise Prep and Pre-Packing Guide walks through the exact process.
Packing cubes are fantastic for pre and post cruise stays or for keeping a ready to change outfit after a long flight. I pack a fresh clothes cube with a complete outfit and a few toiletries and pop it in my backpack so it is easy to grab even if my cabin is not ready.
Laundry onboard can help you pack less, but plan ahead. Many ships need 24 to 48 hours for turnaround, and smaller ships or full sailings can take longer. For quick rinses, Tide Sink Packets are travel friendly and mess free.
For airline rules, check TSA’s liquids rule and “What Can I Bring” before you fly.
Pro Tip: The best suitcase is one you can lift yourself up stairs, across cobblestones, and into a compact car. Keep a ten dollar luggage scale in your backpack and you will avoid surprise fees on the way home.
What to Wear on a European Cruise
The goal is to feel comfortable, confident, and appropriate in port and onboard. European style leans polished and practical, more country club casual than beachwear.
Build a simple color palette. I stick with black, white, and shades of blue. Everything mixes and matches and photographs beautifully. Every pair of pants or shorts must work with at least two or three tops. Choose wrinkle resistant fabrics. Irons are not allowed, and borrowing a steamer is not always easy or effective.
Footwear you can walk in. Europe involves miles of walking. I am a flip flop person at heart, but in Europe I wear sneakers with socks. They keep my feet clean, prevent blisters, and handle cobblestones better than sandals. I bring one or two versatile sneakers and flip flops for the pool or spa. I have more information about getting comfy shoes to travel in for women over 50.
Modesty for churches. Many churches and cathedrals prefer covered shoulders and knees. I carry a light scarf in my day bag and it doubles as a wrap for cool evenings.
Swimwear. Even for cooler itineraries, pack two swimsuits for spa or hot tub time. No one likes a cold, wet suit.
Day versus evening. Daytime in port is about breathable fabrics, sun protection, and good walking shoes. Evenings onboard usually lean smart casual. Virgin Voyages is the most relaxed. Celebrity and Princess lean smart casual, while Holland America often hosts optional gala nights. You can compare official guidelines here for a feel of each brand’s tone:
Pro Tip: Pack one outfit that makes you feel great. A favorite sundress, a crisp linen shirt, or a simple black dress with a wrap will get worn more than once.
Packing by Region and Weather
Mediterranean cruises mean warm days and stylish comfort. Think cotton tops, sundresses, linen pants, and skirts that reach mid thigh or longer. A wide brim hat and sunglasses are musts. Bring a light cardigan or button up for churches and breezy nights.
Northern Europe and fjords bring every forecast in a single day. Build layers. Start with a breathable base, add a lightweight sweater or fleece, and top with a hooded waterproof jacket. Water resistant shoes are worth it.
British Isles and Western Europe are variety central. Sunglasses and a sweater on the same day is normal. A trench or midweight jacket works for sightseeing and dinner ashore.
Add your ports to your weather app about a week before departure, then adjust your final list. If the forecast changes, do not stress. You are not going to the end of the earth. If Belgium is cold, buy a sweatshirt. If Lisbon is hot, pick up a T shirt. It becomes a souvenir.
From my European cruises: on a British Isles sailing, someone in our group packed only shorts, flip flops, and tank tops and ended up buying a very expensive Irish sweater by day ten. One warm layer would have saved the day.
Pro Tip: One cozy sweater, one zip front water resistant jacket with a hood, and one pair of solid walking shoes will carry you from the Med to the fjords.
Shore Excursion and Daypack Essentials
Choose a foldable nylon backpack or a secure crossbody. I keep a foldable backpack half packed with tissues, sanitizer, sunscreen, and a portable charger so it is always ready. I just add wallet, ID, and water before heading out. If you prefer under clothing security, I like a flat money belt that sits under a shirt.
Documents and essentials to carry:
- Cruise card and photo ID. Some ports require your passport on your person. Ask Guest Services each morning.
- Passport copy and travel insurance details.
- Phone and portable charger.
- Small wallet with one card and a bit of local cash for small purchases or pay to use toilets.
- Tissues and hand sanitizer.
- Sunglasses and a light scarf or cardigan for modesty.
- Reusable water bottle if you like to refill.
Footwear and streets. Expect uneven cobblestones and stairs. Wear supportive sneakers or walking shoes. Break them in before your cruise.
Safety in crowds. Keep your bag zipped and in front. Loop your strap around your chair at cafes. If someone bumps you, check your valuables and keep walking.
If your cruise has any tender ports and you want some information on how tendering works and what to bring on those days, I have a simple explainer here: Tender Boats on Cruise Ships.
Pro Tip: Keep the day bag partially packed each night. That habit prevents morning scrambles and forgotten sunscreen moments.
Electronics, Power, and Adapters
Most newer ships include a mix of U.S. 110 V and European 220 V outlets. Some, like Virgin Voyages, include several USB ports by the bed and vanity. Outlets are always limited, so bring a non-surge travel power strip or multi-port USB charger that is cruise approved. Surge protected strips are usually banned.
If you are staying in European hotels before or after the cruise, bring a Type C or Type F plug adapter. Most phone and laptop chargers are dual voltage, so you only need the plug adapter. Avoid bringing high watt hair tools unless they are dual voltage.
Timekeeping matters. Cabins rarely have clocks and phones sometimes latch onto the wrong time zone. Pack a small travel clock or set a simple watch to ship time. You can also check ship time on the cabin TV map channel.
Cabin quirks. Many ships use a keycard slot to power the room. If you want a device to keep charging while you step out, an old keycard or credit card can sit in that slot.
Drones and irons. Drones are restricted by many lines, and irons or steamers are not allowed.
You can read general information about prohibited items on a cruise here.
Always check your cruise line’s latest “what not to bring” page:
Pro Tip: Bring only the tech you will use. The more gadgets you bring, the more you must charge and keep track of.
Toiletries, Medications, and Bathroom Smarts
The cruise lines provide shower gel, shampoo, and conditioner, but let's be honest- they aren't great. You can bring your preferred travel size shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and sunscreen. Add hairspray or styling products you like, a Tide pen for spills, and a tiny air freshener or essential oil for the cabin bathroom.
The toilet paper truth: do not bring your own and do not flush wipes. Cruise toilets use a vacuum system designed only for the thin paper provided. Keep wipes in a resealable bag and toss them in the bin. Ask your steward for extra bags if needed.
Health and hygiene basics:
- Band Aids and blister pads
- Pain relievers and motion sickness tablets
- Antacids or digestive aids
- Hand sanitizer and travel tissues
- Lip balm with SPF
European ports and the shop onboard the have shops and pharmacies if you forget something, but it is easier (and less expensive) to bring your own.
Pro Tip: Wash your hands more often than you think you need to. It is the easiest way to stay healthy at sea.
Tiny But Mighty Extras
- Gym or yoga outfit and lightweight sneakers
- Nail kit and a tiny sewing kit with safety pins
- Swimsuit cover up for walking indoors
- Extra contacts or backup glasses
- A sheet or two of bubble wrap and a packable tote for fragile souvenirs
Bonus tip: Some travelers bring older clothing to wear and then donate or discard at the end of the trip to free space for souvenirs.
Carry On Strategy for Flights and Embarkation Day
Flight carry on is your comfort kit and your backup if luggage is delayed. Pack documents, medications in original containers, a small toiletry kit, a change of clothes in a cube, snacks, chargers, power bank, and an empty bottle to fill after security. Treat this bag like a 24 hour kit. Take a quick photo of your checked bag and its contents before you leave home. This will be helpful if your luggage is lost or damaged.
Embarkation day bag is a little different. Your checked bag may not arrive until evening, so include: passport or ID, medications, phone and charger, sunglasses, sunscreen, a swimsuit and cover up if you want pool time, and a small wallet with a card and a few euros.
For a deeper dive on the terminal process, my Embarkation Day Guide covers how to start with zero stress.
Pro Tip: Wear comfortable shoes and a photo ready outfit for boarding. You will likely explore before your stateroom is ready.
Safety, Valuables, and Situational Awareness
Cruise ships and European ports are generally safe, but awareness helps. Leave expensive jewelry and designer bags at home. I do not even bring my wedding ring. I wear a simple costume ring and my phone is in a crossbody case instead of a fancy bag.
Every cabin has a safe. I often add a small travel safe and tuck it in my suitcase. If you use your own safe, keep it where you will remember it, since crew will only check the cabin safe if they must retrieve documents in an emergency.
Carry a crossbody phone case with strap or an under clothing money belt for cards, passport, and cash. Keep your phone attached to you, since phones are the most common theft target in busy tourist areas.
Use ATMs in town rather than exchange kiosks. Withdraw about 100 euros for tips and small purchases. If you are headed to the British Isles, you will need pounds. Many public toilets charge a small fee or accept contactless payment, so keep a coin or card handy.
If you see a protest or tense crowd, choose another route. At night, stick to well lit areas and ask hotel staff if your destination is safe for tourists.
Pro Tip: Learn a few local phrases. Hello, thank you, and do you speak English go a long way ashore.
Alcohol, Beverages, and Special Requests
Most lines allow one or two 750 ml bottles of wine per cabin. Liquor is generally not allowed. Some lines allow a case of water or soda, others do not. Check your line’s current policy on their site.
Never disguise alcohol in other containers. It will be confiscated and your bag may be held for inspection. Guests have even been banned for posting smuggling tricks online.
If you need distilled water for a CPAP or a sharps container for insulin or GLP-1 injections, call your cruise line in advance. They will provide these safely.
Pro Tip: If you buy wine or liquor to bring home, protect bottles in padded sleeves or in shoes wrapped in plastic bags and soft clothing.
Packing by Season and Cruise Type
- Summer in the Med: breathable fabrics, a sun hat, real UV sunglasses, sandals you can walk in, and a light layer for evenings. The nice perk of cruising is returning to an air conditioned cabin after a hot day ashore.
- Spring and Fall shoulder seasons: a smart mix of layers for cool mornings and warm afternoons.
- Northern Europe and fjords: warm layers, waterproof shoes, and compact binoculars for glacier views and waterfalls.
- Longer or back to back cruises: plan a mid-cruise laundry day and repeat outfits from a small capsule wardrobe.
Pro Tip: Add all ports to your weather app one week out and adjust your list. A few small swaps prevent overpacking.
Final Packing Checks Before You Set Sail
- Double check passports, identification, and boarding documents.
- Keep printed copies of travel insurance and emergency contacts.
- Confirm adapters, chargers, and dual voltage devices.
- Weigh bags with your portable scale.
- Place one day of essential meds in your shore bag.
- Photograph your luggage and tags.
- Review weather for departure and upcoming ports.
- Leave space for souvenirs.
Pro Tip: A short video while you pack becomes proof for travel insurance if a bag goes missing.
Frequently Asked Questions About Packing for a European Cruise
What should I pack for a Mediterranean cruise in summer?
Light, breathable fabrics that do double duty. A sundress that works for sightseeing and dinner, a light scarf for churches, and a sun hat or sunglasses. Even in the heat, bring a light sweater or jacket for cooler evenings onboard.
Do I need a power adapter for a European cruise?
Usually yes. Many ships have both U.S. and European outlets, but not all. Bring a dual voltage adapter with USB ports and check your ship’s outlet setup. For hotels in Europe you will need a Type C or Type F adapter.
Can I wear jeans on a European cruise at dinner?
Yes. Dark jeans are fine for casual or smart casual nights. Skip ripped or heavily distressed styles. For specifics, check your ship’s evening dress guidance in the Embarkation Guide.
Do European cruises have laundry service?
Most do. Many offer pressing or wash and fold, and some have self service laundromats. Plan for a 24 to 48 hour turnaround. For quick rinses, bring Tide Sink Packets.
How many formal or elegant nights should I plan for?
It depends on the line and sailing length. Some lines host one or two elegant nights. Virgin Voyages skips formal nights entirely. When in doubt, bring one versatile dressy outfit or a blazer that works with multiple looks.
Should I bring binoculars?
They are wonderful for the Norwegian fjords and Northern Europe. A compact pair makes wildlife and waterfall spotting much more fun from the deck.
What is one thing cruisers forget to pack?
Travel adapters, a light jacket, modest options for churches, and a one day supply of essential medication for shore days.
What should go in my flight carry on versus my embarkation day bag?
Flight carry on: documents, medications in original containers, a small toiletry kit, a change of clothes, snacks, chargers, and a power bank.
Embarkation day bag: passport or ID, medications, phone and charger, sunglasses, sunscreen, swimsuit and cover up if you want pool time, and a small wallet with a credit card and a few euros.
Can I bring alcohol, water, or other beverages on board?
Policies vary by line. Many allow one or two bottles of wine per cabin and do not allow liquor. Some permit a case of water or sodas. Always check your line’s current policy. Do not try to disguise alcohol in other containers.
What happens if my luggage is lost or delayed?
Treat your flight carry on like a 24 hour kit. Keep one change of clothes, essentials, and all medications with you. Photograph your packed luggage before the trip. If a bag is delayed, you can manage comfortably until it arrives.
Should I bring gym clothes or workout gear?
Yes if you plan to use the fitness center or try a yoga class. One outfit and lightweight sneakers are enough.
Do I need a sewing kit or nail kit?
A tiny sewing kit and nail file take almost no space and can save a port day or dinner outfit.
Before You Close the Suitcase
Packing for a European cruise can feel like a puzzle, but the reward is pure magic. After all the effort, you’ll step onboard with everything you need for adventure, comfort, and style, ready to explore the best of Europe from ship to shore.
Whether you’re sipping sangria in Barcelona, wandering cobblestone streets in Bruges, or soaking up fjord views in Norway, a little preparation goes a long way. And if you’re sailing the Norwegian Fjords or Northern Europe, toss in a compact pair of binoculars. They don’t take up much space and make glacier views, waterfalls, and wildlife sightings even more spectacular.
Remember, you’re not traveling to the end of the earth. You can always buy what you forgot, and you’ll almost always come home realizing you didn’t need quite as much as you packed.
Wherever your itinerary takes you, you’ve got this — and we’ll be right here, helping you every step of the way… from Shore to Cruise.
Key Takeaways
- Smaller luggage works better in Europe.
- Mix and match outfits and plan to layer.
- Pack modest options for churches and practical shoes for cobblestones.
- Keep a one day supply of essential meds in your shore bag.
- Check your cruise line’s current policies and the week’s forecast before you zip the suitcase.
Michelle Strawcutter is a cruise educator, group travel leader, and the creator of Shore to Cruise, where she helps adults cruise smarter — from embarkation tips to bucket list itineraries. With 30+ cruises under her belt (and counting), she shares real-world insights, favorites, and “wish I knew that sooner” advice to help fellow cruisers make the most of every port and sea day.
Connect with Michelle:
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Continue Planning Your European Cruise
- European Cruise Preparation Checklist for a complete pre-trip timeline.
- Cruise Prep and Pre-Packing Guide to build your packing pile and edit with confidence.
- Embarkation Day Guide so boarding day feels easy and fun.
