I’ve been on cruises all over the world, but my favorites are always the warm weather ones. In this post, I’ll focus on what I would wear on cruises to destinations like the Caribbean and Mexico, where the weather is warm almost year-round.
When packing for these sunny destinations, I always make sure to include lightweight, breathable clothing like sundresses, shorts, and tank tops. Do not forget to pack plenty of sunscreen, as it’s often more expensive onboard. Comfortable sandals or flip-flops are a must for walking around the ship and exploring ports of call.
For evenings, I like to bring along a few dressier outfits for dining, such as a few cocktail dress and sundress options. Swimwear is another key part of my cruise wardrobe. I usually pack many swimsuits so I always have a dry one to wear. Accessories like jewelry, sunglasses, beach bag, belt bag, and my water bottle also make my packing list.
Here’s a day-by-day what to wear for a seven-day cruise
7 day cruise outfit guide
DAY 1
EMBARKATION DAY
A two piece set or a dress for boarding, comfortable shoes.
Click here for two piece sets from Amazon
Pack a swimsuit and cover-up in a beach bag, if you plan to hit the pool right away.
Packing tip: On day one your luggage will sometimes not be delivered to your room until after take off. I recommend packing everything you would want or need your first few hours aboard in your beach bag to carry around. I always throw in a swimsuit and sunscreen.
DAY 2:
FUN DAY AT SEA
I always pack a swimsuit for my on ship days. At some point it is almost a guarantee you will jump into the pool or lay on a beach lounger. This day is good to wear a cute pool cover up for when not out in the sun.
Linking my one piece amazon swimsuit pictured above here.
The end of night two the first on ship day is almost always a “dress up” night for the dining room. They have a stricter dress code (that is not heavily enforced on all cruise ships, but it is recommend women wear a cocktail dress and men in suits or pants and ties). I always enjoy an excuse to dress up. I think this is the best night to wear your statement dress.
Formal night outfit ideas here.
DAY 3:
FIRST PORT-OF-CALL
The biggest port of call is great for a walking tour or exploring the island: My go-to for this day is matching two-piece set and comfortable walking shoe.
My go-to sandal for looking cute but being walking friendly are the shoes I wearing below. Linked here
At night I always enjoy putting on a more casual dress, but you can wear anything for casual dinner nights really. I typically go for a sundress.
DAY 4:
SECOND PORT-OF-CALL
The day spent relaxing and drinking on the beach. Pull out your cutest swimsuit that’s practical for swimming in the ocean. Add a cute cover up for exploring the cute shops and heading to and from the beach.
Black Swim top https://bit.ly/4f6RhXM
Black Swim bottom https://bit.ly/3LnVU1O
Beach pants https://bit.ly/3Lr0vAm
This night I will often ship the dining room for dinner and go to something more casual wearing a sweatshirt and shorts set.
DAY 5:
THIRD PORT-OF-CALL
I always recommend booking one shore excursion through your cruise company at the island with the least amount to do. It makes the day easy and stress free. Be sure to read over the correct clothing requirements such as: closed toed shoes, if applicable.
For a hiking or zipline excursion I would choose a two piece workout set or a tennis dress with built in shorts underneath.
At night I wear something what I would call “cute casual” attire.
DAY 6:
FUN DAY AT SEA
Another fancy “dress up” night in the dining room.
Another day spent in a swimsuit and loungewear. This day is all about relaxing for me. I love having options that pair together easily and require little though.
DAY 7:
DEBOARDING
I always go as comfortable as possible this day. I also like to use many layers as possible. Getting off is often hot, then the travel day home is often cold.
Packing for a cruise can be controversially, the most exciting part of your vacation preparation. Making sure that you have the perfect outfits for every occasion is for sure my highlight. Don’t forget those essential accessories like sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun. Whether you’re lounging by the pool, exploring new ports, or enjoying a formal dinner, having the right attire will enhance your cruise experience. So, pack smart, stay stylish, and get ready to make unforgettable memories on your cruise adventure! Bon voyage and happy cruising!
