There’s nothing quite like a cruise through the Mediterranean. It’s the most common cruise destination for British and Irish holidaymakers, thanks in large part to the breadth of cultures you get to experience while making your way through the sea in classically beautiful weather.
Of course, the part that everyone least looks forward to about a big trip is getting properly packed. But it doesn’t have to be a nightmare. Here are our top tips for getting everything you need into the suitcase with minimum fuss.
Research
The number-one rule for packing is to know where you’ll be going and what you’re doing. That might sound basic, but we’ve all thrown things into a suitcase “just in case” that we didn’t end up even close to needing.
A cruise is good for giving you a very clear picture of the places you’ll stop and the activities that you’ll be able to do while there or while en route, so make sure to bring items suitable for those particular things.
Essentials
When you’re exploring vibrant coastal paradises on Mediterranean cruises, there are a few things that you absolutely mustn’t be without. As well as comfort items like a swimming costume, you’ll need safety measures like sunblock, sunglasses and a suitably protective hat.
Any medical necessities should be among the first on your list, too, especially if you’re liable to seasickness.
Daywear
Prioritise comfort when preparing for your days – and pack light when you do so. You won’t need bulky layers; cotton and linen will be your best friends in terms of tops or dresses, while shorts will be all you need for bottoms.
Include some clothes suitable for physical activity if you plan to engage in walking trips or anything more intensive, and make sure to have a couple of pairs of comfy shoes.
Evening attire
The best place to start here is to look into the dress code for your particular cruise and let that guide your requirements. Some trips will strictly prohibit casual wear in dining areas. That said, whether or not there’s a strongly enforced code, bringing some evening wear that makes you look and feel at your best can help make the trip a more magical one.
You’ll still want to make sure you don’t overheat, so breathable shirts, tops and trousers are the order of the day. A classy button-down shirt or an eye-catching dress will go a long way.
Techniques
Once you’ve identified what you want to bring with you, fitting it all in the suitcase is the toughest test. To maximise your space – and reduce the need for ironing – you’ll want to become a master of rolling clothes rather than folding them. You can make things even easier for yourself by grouping together items that you can to make part of a complete outfit, potentially even rolling them together. It’ll make it easier to keep your suitcase organised and to remove everything you need for the day.
Keep an eye out for gaps that appear as you place your bigger, bulkier items into the suitcase. Those are opportunities to slip in a pair of socks or underwear to keep things even and minimise wasted space.