Packing is a pre-vacation task that many see as a chore, because where do you even begin? You don’t want to overpack, but you also want to be prepared for any unforeseen changes in weather or for those spontaneous adventures. You also want to be fashionable but not uncomfortable. There are quite a few things to consider, especially when you have the variety of experiences that Royal Caribbean offers.
So how do you pack just the right wardrobe for shore excursions, date nights, afternoon surfing sessions on the FlowRider and evening shows all in a manageable number of suitcases for your cruise? Luckily, there are several fashion pieces that are both trendy and perfect for a cruise vacation and won’t take up too much luggage space.
Here are a few of favorites — from a white linen shirt to a classic block sandal — that will ensure you’ll always be comfortable and well-dressed whether you’re cruising in the Caribbean or sailing the Mediterranean:
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The Easy Silk Dress
Versatility is the name of the game when it comes to packing for vacation, and you want to prioritize pieces that can be worn in different settings and environments. That’s why an easy silk dress is a must. It’s simple to throw on during the day for a shopping excursion or walking tour of a local city, and it’s also easy to dress up at night if you’re having a fancier dinner or watching a show. Packing a dress in a minimalist color will ensure that it’ll match additional accessories and layers too. Take a look at a couple of examples we love right now — this breezy option or this classic shape — for inspiration.
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The White Linen Shirt
When there are so many activities available on and off a Royal Caribbean ship, no one wants to spend too much time figuring out what they’re going to wear, so it’s best to keep your wardrobe simple and fuss-free. For men, you can’t go wrong with packing a white linen shirt. Because linen is breathable, lightweight and extremely comfy, this shirt is perfect for chilling on the beach or on the pool deck, or buttoned up for dinner. Even better, white linen is a classic trend that goes with most other clothes, so bringing along a shirt, like this short-sleeve or this slim-fitting button-down, will mean you’ll always look comfortable and classy.
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A Classic Block Sandal
Shoes are notorious for taking up the most space in your suitcase, so you’ll want to minimize the number you’re bringing with you. If you’re someone who wants to pack a pair of heels for special occasions, a good bet is a sandal with a block heel. The perfect marriage of fashion and comfort, a classic block sandal means that your feet won’t hurt at the end of a night of dancing, and you’ll still look chic if you decide to grab a drink after dinner. Check out some of our current favorites, like this fiery red pair or this neutral-toned model.
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A Comfy Open-Toed Option
If you’re looking for a shoe that’s easy to pack with guaranteed comfort to boot, opt for athletic slides’ fashionable cousin. The versatile Birkenstocks come in all shapes, sizes and colors, with cushion-soled models as well as waterproof versions — perfect for a splashy vacation on a cruise.
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A Soft Sweater
For a summer cruise, it’s likely that during the day you’re going to get a healthy dose of sunshine. But people often forget that it may get surprisingly chilly at night on board a cruise. If you want to enjoy the open air or stargaze in the evening, make sure you pack an extra layer — like a soft sweater — for added warmth. Keep it simple with something plain that’s easy to throw on over your clothes, like this navy cashmere sweater or this white crew neck.
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A Light Wash Denim Jacket
Similar to shoes, jackets and outerwear are another type of clothing you’ll want to limit when packing for a cruise. Instead of taking a lot of different jackets, consider bringing one that works for many occasions. A denim jacket fits that bill perfectly because it pairs well with both casual daytime looks in the air-conditioned indoors or can go with a nicer evening outfit, if it gets chilly. Picking a jacket in a light wash means you don’t lose the relaxing vibe of vacation either. This jacket made from high-quality Japanese denim or this other style with a classic silhouette would both be great picks for a cruise.
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A Nice Pair of Sunglasses
A nice pair of sunglasses is probably the most essential fashion item to bring with you on a cruise. Since you’ll probably spend plenty of time outdoors, either participating in adventurous excursions and activities or just relaxing at the adults-only pool (one of several pools on board), it’s likely you’ll end up reaching for your sunglasses a lot. Protecting your eyes is important, so make sure to pack a pair of “sunnies” that is as practical as it is stylish. We love these classic tortoise-shell frames or these fashionable cat-eyes for their 100% UV protection.
Now that your wardrobe is all set, are you ready to get away for your day (or week, or more) in the sun? Explore all the Royal Caribbean cruises sailing this summer here.
