What to Wear on a Cruise: Style and Packing Guide

Daytime cruise looks are easy, breezy, and effortless. Sundresses, lightweight peasant dresses with sleeves, and rompers look polished and vacation-ready. Tanks with shorts and wrap skirts also fit the play-all-day cruise aesthetic. Cruise etiquette 101 is that swimwear isn't allowed in dining rooms—but you can take a transitional approach by slipping on a flowy dress as a cover-up.

Picking breathable fabrics and clothing is important because you'll be able to wear pieces all day without sweating through—and burning through your curated suitcase faster. We like linen, cotton, and moisture-wicking fabrics that pack well and feel light. (Image credit: @cheapchicfinds) 

“Smart casual” is the way to go with cruising outfits for a dinner or a show—dressier than your day look, but not formal attire either. Bring out the elevated sundresses, jumpsuits, and maxi dresses—solids, patterns, and even sequins are welcome. Try nice sandals and some add some bling with gold or sparkly necklaces or earrings to finish off the look. 

For those nighttime sea breezes, tote along a lightweight blazer, shawl, or cardigan to layer. We personally love a white blazer on a cruise for a fresh, preppy nautical look. Remember that the goal here is to go dressier than daytime attire without looking like you're going to prom—cute and affordable cocktail dresses or a coordinated set are perfect. (Image credit: @wearandwhenblog) 

What do you wear if your cruise has a gala night? The same cocktail dress you pack for regular "evenings out" while cruising is fine—that's your favorite slip dress, sheath dress, or midi dress. Gala attire can also mean black tie attire and floor-length gowns. Have a fashion moment with a cocktail dress with sleeves that's somewhere between ball gown and cocktail. For men, cruise galas often require suits or tuxedos. With professional photos available for order at these events, you won't regret dressing to the nines. (Image credit: @suburbanstylefiles) 

Theme nights are where cruise fashion gets fun—and a little theatrical. Most cruise lines host at least one themed evening during longer voyages, with white parties, tropical nights, and retro nights being the most popular. The key to nailing theme night looks is choosing versatile pieces that work beyond just the party itself.

For white parties, pack pieces from our White Dresses collection, or try a crisp white jumpsuit or flowy white maxi dress works beautifully and can double as elegant evening wear on other nights. Tropical nights call for bold florals, bright colors, and playful prints that capture that island vibe. A vibrant wrap dress or tropical print romper fits the bill while staying practical for the ship's climate-controlled interior.

Before you pack, check your cruise itinerary to see what theme nights are planned. This way, you can strategically pack a couple of statement outfits that serve double duty—like a retro-inspired midi dress that works for both '70s night and regular evening dining. Remember, participation is optional, but theme nights often provide some of the most memorable photo opportunities of your trip. (Image credit: @sazan) 

For daytime excursions from the cruise port, stay comfortable in activewear. We like moisture-wicking workout sets that are easy to pack—and thin enough to wash and dry in your cruise cabin—for things like rainforest hiking, hopping on a zipline, or shopping at local markets in hot climates. Pack a lightweight waterproof bag large enough to hold any hiking essentials. Sneakers and an oversized hat are also essential. When heading to the beach, a swimsuit and trendy cover-up work great—just check out our recent round up of Trending Cover-Ups to put together the perfect beach resort look. (Image credit: @teishadorianna) 

Your arrival outfit has to be comfy enough to endure traveling, waiting in boarding lines, and exploring the ship—while also being cute enough to wear during travel and first-day ship photos. Since your luggage may take some time to arrive at your cabin, you could be stuck in this outfit for a bit. Our list of Cozy-Chic Activewear Finds is full of soft, flexible pieces.

Make your debut on the cruise in comfort and style with travel outfits like a breathable jumpsuit or maxi dress with a light jacket or cardigan. A cute lounge set with crisp sneakers is another fun option. A crossbody bag that keeps your phone, passport and ID, cruise documents, and sunscreen close to your body is also essential. Choose comfortable flats and slip-on sneakers. As you jet from the different climates of airports, terminals, the ship deck, and the ship interior, layerable pieces ensure comfort. (Image credit: @stylish_samantha) 

Sailing the Mediterranean means balancing your desire for comfort with meshing with fashionable cities like Rome, Barcelona, and Santorini. The right looks for this type of trip include lightweight dresses, linen pants, chic sandals, comfortable walking sandals for navigating old stairs and cobblestones, and subtle accessories. Anything in our rundown of Dresses at Anthropologie will be chic enough for Mediterranean cities. A large hat, black sunglasses, and stylish crossbody bag or fanny-style bag finish out the look for the perfect blend of Euro style and practicality. (Image credit: @aclaireytale)

When heading into chilly waters—think once-in-a-lifetime cruises to Alaska, Northern Europe, or British Columbia—layering prevents suitcase overstuffing. When divvying up room in your luggage for excursions like whale watching or hiking snowcapped hills, prioritize sweaters, thermal layers, waterproof jackets, and boots because you may not be able to attend some excursions without them. If your chilly cruise is more urban in nature—like sightseeing in Amsterdam—use luggage space for tall, soft boots and a polished peacoat for stylish European travel outfits that are warm enough. Cozy matching sweats and fleece-lined leggings are perfect for ship lounging as you sail on chillier, choppier waters with moody skies. (Image credit: @suburbanstylefiles)

The R&S team generally implements a four-pair rule when packing for cruises. One to two pairs for daily wear, one showstopper pair for evenings, and one excursion pair. Remember that shoes take up more room and add more weight than anything else you'll wear on the cruise. Pack neutral, goes-with-anything colors for added versatility. 

Here's some help for weeding out what to pack versus what to leave home:

Daytime and ship exploring: Comfortable sandals, trendy espadrilles, or slip-on sneakers you can wear with dresses; prioritize no-slip soles for slippery cruise decks

Evenings and gala nights: Wedges, block heels, or dressy flats

Pool and beach days: Flip-flops or water sandals

Excursions and active days: Sneakers or waterproof hiking sandals with good support for outdoor excursions; for port cities, do stylish walking heels 

Versatile accessories can turn two or three outfits into eight or nine outfits. Style, practicality, and sun protection are all in the mix when packing accessories for your cruise clothes. 

Here's our default packing list:

Core accessories: Oversized sun hats or visors, sunglasses, scarves, belts, jewelry—and a smartwatch that will get you to excursion meeting points on time.

Practical packing: For ready-to-go looks with no prep, use packing cubes and wrinkle-release spray. Consider travel-friendly perfume, efficient makeup palettes, and hair accessories that double as bracelets. Pack beauty products in TSA-approved toiletry bags to avoid having to part with them.

Bags: Crossbody bags are perfect for cruising because you'll keep your ID and travel docs close to your body.