A key feature of any river cruise is time spent in port exploring, discovering and making the most of your included shore excursions, therefore it’s crucial to pack clothing and items that will enhance your experience whilst also keeping you comfortable and relaxed.
As the river cruising experts, we have compiled our top five packing tips to ensure your next river cruise runs smoothly.
Europe’s waterways are beautiful at any time of year, but the weather in the region can shift quickly and unexpectedly no matter the season – which can be problematic if you have already left your ship dressed for the sun and a sudden shower threatens to ruin your time in port.
Prepare for the unpredictable by ensuring you choose lightweight layers – such as a waterproof jacket, a jumper and a light t-shirt. Plus, a small umbrella or compact raincoat is a must-have in your bag – keeping you ready for whatever the weather sends your way.
Charming streets paved with cobblestones are a huge attraction on a river cruise itinerary, but incorrect footwear could leave you struggling to navigate the uneven surfaces. To ensure your footwear is covered in every eventuality, it’s useful to bring along a pair of walking shoes with a good grip, ideally a waterproof or weather-resistant option for rainy days, and a dressier pair of shoes when attending dinners or live entertainment both on board and ashore.
Though many river cruise lines are incredibly relaxed when it comes to the dress code on board, guests are encouraged to dress smarter during the evening with many lines. During the daytime, casual and comfortable wear is acceptable for shore excursions and in-port discovery, but evening attire tends to lean towards a more polished, resort-style theme – for example, collared shirts and smart trousers for the men, and dresses or nicer tops and trousers for the ladies.
Top Tip: Evenings on board can be chilly, but the views from the deck are extraordinary, so bring a scarf, shawl or a jacket to keep you warm after sunset!
When it comes to packing, there are plenty of smaller essentials that can be easily missed when prioritising your clothes and footwear. Don’t forget to ensure you have the correct plug adapters, a light backpack or bag to take with you on excursions, and a reusable water bottle to keep you hydrated in port. Plus, even in lower temperatures, sunglasses and sun cream are crucial to keep you protected from UV and ensure your excursions are safe, enjoyable and free from sun burn! It is also a good idea to bring along some essential first aid supplies, along with your regular medications, as pharmacies may be limited in smaller ports.
The small comforts when on board will go along way, and it would be unfortunate to miss out on any of the ship’s facilities by forgetting to pack the correct supplies. If you’re hoping to enjoy the onboard spa, or if your river cruise ship offers a pool, a swimsuit is essential – plus, if you’re planning to explore the ship’s fitness offerings, including the onboard gym or group-led classes, comfortable workout attire is a must-have. For quiet afternoons on deck, or unwinding after an active excursion, reading material is your perfect companion. Plus, the views from your river ship are sure to be exceptional – so, bring a small pair of compact binoculars to help capture it all!
Though river cruise cabins have limited storage, the space is innovatively designed to ensure you have ample room for your belongings. These five essential tips should help preserve your cabin space, whilst ensuring you have everything you need for the perfect river cruise.
