best travel dress for cruise

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes

We independently evaluate all of our recommendations. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

• Travel Products

The 16 Best Travel Dresses of 2024

Our top picks are elegant, versatile, and endlessly comfy.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks
• Tips for Buying

Frequently Asked Questions

• Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure / Kristin Kempa

The best travel dresses make it easy to throw together outfits while allowing you to pack fewer pieces. They can be dressed up or down for casual, fancy, and professional occasions. You can wear them on travel days and, depending on the material, potentially multiple times during your trip — even without access to a washing machine.

We scoured the internet and checked our own closets to compile options for every style, season, and activity. From sophisticated shirt dresses, sweater dresses, and wraps to breezy sundresses, maxis, and sporty athleisure numbers, you'll find the perfect frock here.

Best Overall

Quince mongolian cashmere sleeveless midi sweater dress.

This endlessly versatile dress can be worn year-round, in any weather, and you can style it with various layers, outerwear, and shoes.

The brand recommends hand washing it and laying it flat to dry.

You can count on Quince for well-made wardrobe staples at accessible price points. The brand carries lots of high-quality, relatively low-maintenance cashmere pieces, like this travel-friendly dress. It features a sleeveless, midi-length cut and a fisherman sweater knitting pattern.

Suitable for all four seasons, this dress can be layered under a cardigan, blazer, jean jacket, or shawl, worn over a snug-fitting turtleneck or thin T-shirt, or rocked as-is in warm weather. It also pairs well with various shoe styles, including boots, sandals, casual or dressy flats , block heels, and wedges.

Since cashmere (a type of wool sourced from goats) is naturally odor-resistant, you can wear this dress more than once between washes — and pack fewer items for your trip. The soft, breathable material won't wrinkle or crease in your suitcase, either. But bear in mind hand washing is recommended.

The Details: XS to XL | Mongolian cashmere

Best Budget

Amazon essentials above-the-knee dress.

With a laidback athleisure style, this sweatshirt dress is great for daytime wear or hanging out at your rental.

It doesn't have pockets.

If you're on a budget, look no further than Amazon. This affordable frock features a classic crew neckline, long sleeves, and an above-the-knee cut. The laidback style is essentially a sweatshirt dress, so consider wearing it with sneakers, slides, or another sporty sandal style. You can wear it en route to your destination, out and about during the day, or while padding around your vacation rental. We wish it had pockets, but for this price, we're not complaining.

The Details: XS to 2XL | Cotton, polyester

Best Size-inclusive

Skims long sleeve dress.

It comes in nine sizes, and the buttery fabric stretches to twice its size to ensure a fit every time.

Popular sizes and styles sell out frequently.

Skims is among today's most size-inclusive brands. Not only does this dress come in nine sizes (ranging from 2XS to 4X), but like other pieces from the Fits Everybody line, the unbelievably flexible, body-molding fabric stretches to double its size. Plus, it resists wrinkles and takes up minimal suitcase space. We also appreciate that the dress offers subtle shaping effects, cinching the waist and smoothing the arms and hips. Unfortunately, popular sizes and colors sell out frequently, but if you can snag this dress in your size, you won't regret it.

The Details: 2XS to 4X | Polyamide, elastane

Best Short-sleeve

Everlane short-sleeve dress.

The timeless, travel-ready Dream Dress can be dressed up or down and worn with several outerwear and footwear styles.

This style doesn't have pockets.

This timeless, elegant dress from Everlane is just the thing for your upcoming trip. It flaunts a mid-length A-line skirt, a semi-fitted bodice, and short sleeves that fall just above the elbows. You can dress it up or down, wear it day or night, and pair it with a wide range of outerwear and footwear styles — think loafers and a blazer, heeled boots and an overcoat, or flats and a denim jacket. This dress is also sustainably made with organic cotton and modal sourced from responsibly managed forests.

The Details: XS to XL | Organic cotton, modal, elastane

Best Long-sleeve

Nordstrom long sleeve shift sweatshirt dress.

This cozy, casual dress boasts a neoprene-like knit fabric that's warm but not overly heavy with wrinkle-resistant stretch.

It may not be as breathable as natural weaves.

We stand behind Nordstrom's own brand for high-quality pieces that aren't exorbitantly expensive. Case in point: this thoughtfully designed long-sleeve number. This dress features a relaxed shift silhouette, a jewel neckline, a midi-length cut with side slits, and handy pockets that are clutch for travel. The neoprene-like sweatshirt material is thick and cozy but not too heavy. And it has some stretch to it, which helps prevent wrinkles and enhances the overall comfort.

The Details: 2XS to 2XL | Polyester, rayon, spandex

Best Sleeveless

Unbound merino travel dress.

The aptly named Travel Dress is a layerable, three-season wardrobe basic that can be worn multiple times between washes.

The material may pill over time.

Unbound Merino's Travel Dress is crafted mostly from merino wool, with a touch of nylon and spandex for extra stretch and durability. As a naturally antimicrobial textile, wool repels bacteria that cause body odor, so you can wear it multiple times between washes. This makes it ideal for travel, as you can pack fewer outfits. Less frequent washing will also help prevent the material from pilling. Though the sleeveless style is a go-to for warm climates, you can also wear it in transitional weather with the right layers and accessories.

The Details: XS to XL | Merino wool, nylon, spandex

Maeve Sweater Dress

Anthropologie

The 1960s-esque Annalise Dress is flirty yet sophisticated and suitable for year-round wear.

Hand washing is recommended.

We love this flirty yet sophisticated dress from Maeve. Reminiscent of go-go dresses from the 1960s, the Annalise has a modish mock neck, nearly elbow-length sleeves, a simple shift silhouette, and patch pockets. Though it's a mini cut, the weighty, sweater-inspired material and structured shape make it suitable for year-round wear. Whether you style it with tights and an overcoat or go bare-legged with heeled sandals, you'll be dressed to impress. The fabric should resist wrinkling, but you might consider hand washing to prevent pilling or misshaping the garment.

The Details: 2XS to XL | Viscose, polyester, nylon

Free People Essential Slim Midi

Free People

This effortless T-shirt dress is super stretchy and exceptionally soft, not to mention versatile, layerable, and packable.

You'll want to wash it by hand with cold water.

Free People makes our favorite calf-length option. The Essential Slim Midi is lightweight and stretchy with a super-soft, airy feel. This semi-slim (but not too tight) T-shirt dress works as a swimsuit cover-up, resort wear, or a casual daytime outfit. The effortless design goes with sneakers, slides, wedges, platform sandals, or flats. It doesn't have pockets, but it's wrinkle-resistant and easy to pack. Just a heads up, the brand recommends hand washing this dress with cold water.

The Details: XS to XL | Polyester, viscose, elastane

Anthropologie Maxi Dress

The easy-breezy Raya Dress is just the thing for beach days, hanging by the pool, going to lunch, or attending a music festival.

Since it's 100 percent cotton, it may shrink or wrinkle in the wash.

We also like Anthropologie's Raya Dress. This easy-breezy maxi is perfect for a day at the beach, pool, or resort, but you can also wear it out to lunch, while shopping, to the farmer's market, or to a music festival. Available in four pretty colorways, the colorblock design is modern and eye-catching without sacrificing versatility. This dress is 100 percent cotton, so you can bet it's breathable and moisture-wicking. That said, it might wrinkle or shrink slightly in the wash — Anthropologie recommends hand washing.

The Details: XS to 3XL | Cotton

Best T-shirt Dress

Allsaints short sleeve maxi dress.

With a boxy silhouette and sporty details, the Anna Maxi has a casually cool vibe you'll reach for again and again while traveling.

It may shrink slightly the first time you wash it.

T-shirt dresses are excellent for travel, as they're easy to style and offer a casually cool streetwear appeal for daytime ensembles. We like this one from AllSaints. The Anna Maxi features a simple, slightly boxy silhouette, a sporty crew neckline, short cuffed sleeves, and side pockets, plus a longer cut, which makes it more seasonless. Since this dress is 100 percent cotton (of the organic variety), it might shrink a little the first time you wash it.

The Details: 00 to 12 | Organic cotton

Best Shirt Dress

Aday something borrowed dress.

The modern design has sleek, pared-down details and a professional appeal that's still laidback enough for casual outings.

It's machine washable, but line drying is recommended.

This shirt dress from Aday will make you look put-together while minimizing your time curating outfits. It's made of what the brand calls "technical silk," a sumptuously smooth, stretchy, and wrinkle-proof blend of nylon and elastane. Instead of a traditional point collar and buttons, it features a simple Mandarin collar and hidden snap fastenings down the front for a sleeker, pared-down appeal — extra points for the pockets. Whether you're traveling for business or pleasure, you won't regret packing this professional-looking yet easygoing piece.

The Details: XS to XL | Nylon, elastane

Best Sweater Dress

Faherty jackson sweater dress.

Featuring a mid-weight knit fabric and preppy details, this sweater dress is soft, cozy, and suitable for multiple seasons.

Hand washing and air drying are recommended.

Faherty's Jackson Dress can be worn in the fall, winter, or spring. Balancing a laidback vibe with preppy details, the modest, collared design is suitable for business-casual settings and leisurely activities alike. It's soft and cozy, too, thanks to the mid-weight sweater-inspired knit material. Since the cotton is blended with synthetic yarns, this dress should resist wrinkling. Still, hand washing is recommended to preserve the material.

The Details: XS to 2XL | Cotton, polyester, nylon, elastane

Best With Pockets

Foreign fare wrap me up dress.

Foreign Fare

Made with travel in mind, this non-wrinkling dress has two side pockets and a hidden zipper section big enough to fit a smartphone or passport.

It'll fall below the knees on shorter people.

The Wrap Me Up Dress was designed with travel in mind. It's made of a durable, wrinkle-resistant blend of Tencel and polyester, so you won't have to worry about creases when packing it in a suitcase. The material is also breathable, soft, and slightly drapey, which complements the subtly flowy, A-line silhouette. Best of all, it has pockets: two on the sides and one hidden zipper pocket on the front seam where you can stash your phone, ID, passport, room key, cash, or cards.

The Details: XS to 2XL | Tencel, polyester

Best Athleisure

Athleta coaster luxe sweatshirt dress.

Made of a thick, stretchy material with thumb-hole sleeves and zippered pockets, the Coaster Luxe Dress has a practical, athletic appeal.

If you prefer a slightly longer cut, consider getting the tall fit.

Athleisure was once brushed off as a passing trend of the early aughts, but the practical, non-restricting clothing style is here to stay — and it's a go-to among travelers. Athleta's Coaster Luxe Dress is made of an ultra-soft and supremely stretchy brushed sweatshirt material that'll keep you cozy while resisting wrinkles and wicking away moisture. The zippered pockets are a much-appreciated detail. You can wear this sporty frock to and from your destination, to brunch, on daily walks, while sightseeing, out shopping, or just hanging out at your hotel or vacation rental.

The Details: 2XS to 3XL | Lyocell, polyester, lycra

Most Versatile

Marine layer short sleeve midi dress.

Marine Layer

This seasonless little black dress can be layered, accessorized, and styled many ways, no matter the weather.

It only comes in one color and doesn't have pockets.

The little black dress – but make it seasonless. Marine Layer reimagined its best-selling Lexi Dress (a midi-length, sleeveless style) with a slightly thicker fabric, then added a mock neck and above-the-elbow sleeves. The result is an incredibly versatile piece you can wear in winter, spring, summer, or fall. It's a stellar evening dress for warm climates and can be layered and accessorized for transitional weather. In the cold months, wear it with tights, boots, a cardigan, and a warm overcoat.

The Details: XS to XL | Tencel lyocell, spandex

Best Day-to-night

Modern citizen yimei mock-neck side-slit dress.

Modern Citizen

This wrap-inspired dress can be worn all day, whether you have brunch, shopping, a work meeting, or a networking event on your itinerary.

You can machine wash it on a delicate cycle, but let it air dry.

During the day, the Yimei Dress can be worn with sandals or flats while shopping, out to lunch, or to a work meeting. Then throw on heels and a blazer to transition your look to evening attire for happy hour, a dinner reservation, or a networking event. It's professional and elegant but not so fancy that you'll look out of place at more casual outings. We like that it looks like a wrap dress but doesn't require any wrapping, tying, or retightening throughout the day. What's more, the soft, stretchy fabric won't wrinkle in your suitcase or on your body.

The Details: XS to 2XL | Hemp, cotton, spandex

Tips for Buying Travel Dresses

Consider versatility.

The best travel dresses are versatile. This means they can be worn in multiple seasons in different climates, layered with other pieces, easily accessorized, and styled many ways. Ideally, you'll be able to wear the dress more than once on your trip (or at least day and night), so you don't have to pack as many outfits. With this in mind, look for mid-weight fabrics, medium lengths, odor-resistant materials, and neutral hues.

Think about care instructions

You should also consider the care requirements of your travel dresses. A machine washable design is ideal, especially if you'll have access to a washing machine on your trip. But even if a dress calls for hand washing, you can clean it in your hotel room (or anywhere with a sink) and let it air dry.

Sweat-wicking and odor-resistant materials like wool, cashmere, and some performance fabrics don't need to be washed after every use. This is great for travel dresses, as you can wear them multiple times and pack fewer clothing items in your suitcase.

A wrinkle-resistant dress made of a stretchy, durable material can be folded or rolled up compactly in a suitcase. However, more delicate pieces should be carefully folded and placed on top of your other items. In some cases, a garment bag might be necessary to protect the fabric and prevent a dress from wrinkling en route.

The best materials for travel dresses are stretchy, wrinkle-resistant, breathable, and sweat-wicking. Many fabrics and textile blends have these qualities. Natural materials like wool, cotton, and viscose tend to be the most breathable, and they keep odor-causing bacteria at bay. But they're not always as durable or flexible as their synthetic counterparts.

Tencel lyocell and modal are exceptions, as they're naturally derived and inherently stretchy. Travel-friendly synthetic fibers include polyester, polyamide, elastane, nylon, lycra, and spandex.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

Travel + Leisure contributor Theresa Holland is a seasoned commerce writer specializing in travel, apparel, lifestyle, and shopping. She knows how to find the best pieces for any season and occasion and has personally tried items from several brands featured here. Some of her favorites include Quince, Athleta, Everlane, Skims, Nordstrom, Aday, and Unbound Merino.

Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we'll send you our favorite travel products each week.

Related Articles

40+ Fashionable Cruise Dresses: The Ultimate Guide

Posted on Last updated: February 10, 2024

Welcome to our comprehensive guide to selecting the perfect cruise dresses! Embarking on a cruise means stepping into a world of both relaxation and elegance.

Whether you’re lounging on the deck or attending a glamorous dinner, the right cruise dress can enhance your experience. Let’s dive in!

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you. Please read full disclosure  here .

Cruise Sun Dresses

Women’s Flowy Casual Mini Dress

Price: $39.99

Where to Buy: Amazon

Experience comfort and elegance in this flowy dress, crafted from high-quality, ultra-soft fabric that keeps you cool in style. With flutter sleeves, a V-neck, and chic design details, it’s the perfect choice for a fashionable and comfortable look.

Women’s Summer Dress

Price: $28.99

Where to Buy:  Amazon

Whether you’re planning a casual day out, a day out at port, a beach trip, or just your daily routine, these cruise dresses are the perfect choice. Additionally, their soft and comfortable fabric ensures you’ll feel at ease throughout the day.

Women’s Summer Maxi

Price: $24.99 – $28.99

This elegant ruffle maxi dress, with its versatile design and comfortable material, is the perfect choice for a wide range of occasions. Whether it’s a casual day out, a romantic date, a day in port, a fun dinner, or any special event, this dress effortlessly fits the bill, ensuring you look and feel your best.

Womens Summer Backless Dress

Price: $35.99 – $36.99

This dress is incredibly versatile, making it suitable for a wide range of occasions. From relaxing beach outings and memorable cruise adventures, elegant evenings out, and even glamorous formal nights, it effortlessly combines versatility and style, ensuring you’re impeccably dressed for any event on your calendar.

Women’s Summer Boho Dress

Price: $40.99 – $44.99

With its comfortable, slightly stretchy fabric, this summer boho maxi dress is perfect for various occasions. Featuring charming floral prints, spaghetti straps, a square neck, and cottagecore-inspired details like knot shoulders and ruffles, it’s ideal for travel, vacations, beach outings, casual weekends, and daily summer wear.

Beach Dress for Women

Price: $36.99

Whether you’re strolling on the deck, enjoying a dinner by the sea, or exploring exotic ports of call, this dress offers the versatility and ease of wear that’s well-suited for a cruise adventure. Its stylish design and practical features make it a convenient and fashionable choice, ensuring you can enjoy your cruise in style and comfort.

Women’s Summer Sleeveless Dress

This dress is a must-have for cruise vacations, offering the perfect attire for your onboard and onshore adventures. Whether you’re lounging by the pool, exploring exotic destinations, or attending evening events, its versatility and comfort make it an ideal choice for a cruise wardrobe.

Women’s Summer Sundress

Price: $35.99

This halter neck, backless, mini dress with waist ruching, floral print, and convenient pockets is the ultimate choice for your cruise wardrobe this season. Whether you’re attending a cocktail party, a beach outing, or simply hanging out onboard, this dress is versatile and stylish.

Tropical Dresses

Price: $27.91

This midi ruffle dress is the ideal choice for your cruise wardrobe, offering versatility to dress it up or down as per your day’s plans. Whether you’re exploring ashore or enjoying onboard activities, you can effortlessly style this dress with heels or sandals, a sun hat, and a clutch, ensuring you look chic and comfortable throughout your cruise vacation.

Women’s Floral Maxi Dress

Price: $46.99

This elegant summer maxi dress is a cruise essential that fulfills your summer fashion desires. With options in five beautiful colors, it features an off-shoulder style that highlights your shoulders and a feminine floral print, making it the perfect choice to stand out during your cruise vacation.

Women Loose Fit Wrap Dress

Price: $42.99

This short sleeve cover-up dress is an excellent addition to your cruise wardrobe. It’s designed to complement swimsuits, bikinis, and beachwear, making it perfect for beach and poolside outings. Whether you’re strolling on the street, taking photos, or enjoying the scenic beauty during your cruise vacation, this versatile dress is a great choice.

Womens V Neck Wrap Dress

Price: $32.99

This sexy long maxi dress with a flattering v-neck design is a cruise essential, showcasing your elegant neckline while providing practicality with adjustable spaghetti straps and side pockets. Its vibrant floral print makes it versatile for different cruise occasions, whether you’re headed to the beach, a casual outing, a party, or a wedding as a guest, making it the perfect choice for your vacation wardrobe.

Womens Casual Short Sleeve Dress

Price: $49.98

Whether you’re lounging on the beach, attending a poolside party, exploring outdoor destinations, or enjoying evening cocktails, this dress is perfect for various cruise occasions, making it an ideal outfit for your summer vacation.

Womens Tropical A Line Dress

Price: $38.69

This tropical tree short sleeve off-the-shoulder midi beach summer dress is an excellent addition to your cruise wardrobe, offering versatility for various cruise occasions.

Women’s Summer Wrap Maxi Dress

Price: $47.99

This versatile maxi dress is a must-have for your cruise wardrobe, suitable for beach vacations, outdoor activities, parties, and more during the spring and summer. You can easily style it with heels, sandals, or layer it with a jacket and boots for different cruise occasions.

Women’s Boho Floral Print Dress

Price: $40.99

This off-shoulder ditsy floral dress is a versatile addition to your cruise wardrobe, perfect for a range of cruise occasions. Whether it’s a sunny day by the pool, a casual evening, a wedding celebration, or a formal event during your cruise, this dress is an ideal choice for your summer vacation.

Formal Cruise Dresses

Women’s Long Formal Dress

Price: $62.99

This elegant formal cruise dress is designed for women who want to make a statement. With its one-shoulder design featuring a bow, a thigh-high split highlighting slender legs, and a maxi length that exudes elegance, it’s perfect for formal cruise events.

Women’s Summer Formal Dress

Price: $44.99

This dress is a perfect choice for cruise formal nights, offering a variety of plain colors that allow you to mix and match accessories for different looks. The delicate ruffles create a soft and romantic appearance, ensuring you look charming and attractive during your cruise formal events.

Women’s Plunging Formal Dress

Price: $52.99

The unique embroidered floral pattern on sheer mesh adds chic appeal, and when paired with high heels and accessories, it’s suitable for cruise formal nights, parties, dinners, and other festive cruise occasions.

Womens One Shoulder Sleeveless Dress

Price: $41.99

This formal dress is an excellent choice for cruise occasions, featuring one shoulder with a sleeveless design, ruffle detail, and an elegant empire waist. The soft and stretchy material ensures a perfect fit, highlighting your body curves beautifully.

Womens Long Satin Dress

This versatile dress is perfect for cruise formal night occasions and can be styled with boots, high heels, sandals, and accessories. Whether you’re attending a cruise party, dinner, formal night, or enjoying a casual evening, this dress showcases your charm with its empire waist, side slit, and mock neck design, making it a valuable addition to your cruise formal night wardrobe.

Womens Long V-Neck Dress

Price: $49.99

This dress is an excellent choice for cruise formal nights, featuring a sexy v-neck, elegant ruched high waist, and a comfortable, lightweight design. Perfect for formal or semi-formal cruise occasions like cruise parties, dinners, and formal nights, it pairs beautifully with accessories to capture attention.

Women’s Sequin Formal Dress

Price: $66.99

This glamorous short-sleeve party dress with sparkling sequins and an asymmetric one-shoulder design is perfect for cruise formal events like themed parties, dinners, and formal nights. You can easily pair it with heels or sandals for an elegant and dazzling look.

Women’s Elegant Formal Dress

Price: $69.99 – $92.99

This cruise formal dress, with its charming chiffon design, double v-neck, and side slit, is perfect for various cruise occasions, such as formal dinners, evening parties, and formal night events. It allows you to look stunning and stylish while enjoying your cruise, making it a versatile choice for onboard events.

Rompers/Jumpsuits

Women’s Casual Summer Romper

Price: $19.99

This stylish romper with a sleeveless strap design and a loose waist is perfect for cruise occasions. Whether you’re commuting, traveling, or on vacation, it showcases your elegant style and offers versatile matching options for a comfortable and fashionable look during your cruise.

Relipop Women’s Floral Romper

Price: $28.99 – $37.99

This stylish cruise floral romper with a deep v-neck and ruffle hem is perfect for various cruise occasions. Made from high-quality polyester, it’s lightweight and comfortable. You can pair it with sandals, heels, and accessories for a fashionable look during your cruise.

Women’s Casual Loose Jumpsuit

Price: $32.88

This versatile romper is perfect for cruise occasions, with its one-piece sleeveless design, wide-leg pants, and side pockets. Whether you’re headed to the beach, exploring the city, or enjoying a cocktail evening, it’s a stylish and comfortable choice for your summer cruise adventures.

Women’s Tie Front Romper

Price: $19.99 – $24.97

This romper is a versatile choice for cruise occasions, whether you’re attending a cruise party, relaxing on the beach, or enjoying casual wear onboard. Its stylish design with a sexy v-neck and floral print adds a chic touch to your cruise wardrobe, making it suitable for various cruise activities and events.

Meyeeka Knit Romper

Price: $38.99

This Meyeeka sweater romper is a cozy and stylish choice for cruise occasions, made from high-quality knitted material that’s soft and comfortable. With features like a crewneck, long sleeves, and an oversize design, it’s perfect for casual outings, parties, and streetwear during your cruise.

Women’s Summer Straps Romper

Price: $43.99

This trendy jumpsuit with one-shoulder straps and a high waist is a must-have for cruise occasions, offering a fashionable and cute travel outfit. Whether you’re attending a cocktail party, wedding, or simply enjoying your cruise vacation, it showcases your sexy and elegant shape, making it a versatile choice for various cruise activities and events.

Women’s Short Overalls Romper

Price: $29.99

Whether you’re heading to the beach or running daily errands onboard, you can pair this romper with various tops and footwear, ensuring a simple and chic look that exudes sophistication and comfort during your cruise.

Women’s Beach Ruffles Romper

This Valphsio jumpsuit is a versatile choice for cruise occasions, crafted from lightweight and soft fabric with a unique back zipper design for easy wearing. It features a deep v neckline and flared wide legs, making it suitable for cruise parties or pairing with hats and boots for a chic spring and summer look during your cruise.

Women’s Smocked Wide-Leg Romper

This versatile romper with decorated buttons, adjustable waist belt, and spaghetti straps is perfect for cruise occasions. It suits various activities during your cruise, from daily wear to holidays, and can be effortlessly paired with hats and bags for added style.

Swimsuit Cover Dresses

Women Swimsuit Crochet Dress

This cruise cover-up dress is an ideal choice, featuring a round neck, mini dress length, long sleeves, and a knit crochet design for a sheer beach cover-up look. Whether you’re heading to the beach, poolside tanning salon, or a water park during your cruise, it’s a perfect outfit to complement your swimwear.

Blooming Jelly Womens Coverup

This cruise dress with a deep v-neck and bell sleeves is perfect for various occasions, including swimming, beach outings, and vacations. Its simple A-line style makes it easy to match with shoes and bags, and it’s versatile as a summer sundress, beach cover-up, or casual beach dress.

Womens Open Front Coverup

This kimono cover-up is a stylish choice for your cruise, featuring an open-front design with bohemian tie-dye stripes. Made from soft and comfortable fabric, it’s suitable for beach outings, swimming pools, and cruise daily activities, making it a versatile addition to your cruise attire.

Womens Hollow Out Coverup

Price: $11.49 – $24.99

This cover-up is an essential addition to your cruise wardrobe, made from soft and breathable lightweight fabric that’s easy to wear. Whether you’re heading to the beach, pool, honeymoon, or water park during your cruise, this cover-up is a must-have for your wonderful vacation.

Womens Cover Ups Crochet

This cover-up is a perfect choice for cruise occasions, made from soft and comfortable crochet knit stretch fabric that fits various body shapes. It’s easy to pair with swimwear, making it a must-have for vacation, beach outings, and poolside activities during your cruise.

Womens Swimsuit Coverup

Price: $18.88 – $22.94

This swim cover-up is a versatile choice for cruise occasions, featuring a simple and generous A-line style that’s easy to pair with shoes and bags. It’s suitable for various activities such as beach outings and swimming pools, with the added convenience of two side pockets to carry small items.

Blooming Jelly Crochet Coverup

Price: $24.99

This crochet swim cover-up is a stylish choice for your cruise, featuring a round neckline, long sleeves with hollow-out design, and a thigh-length cut to showcase your body. It’s ideal for beach, pool, and water park outings during your cruise, and it also makes a thoughtful holiday gift for your loved ones.

Dos and Don’ts of Cruise Dresses

Do’s:.

• Do Check the Dress Code: Always check the specific cruise line’s dress code . Each cruise may have different guidelines for casual, semi-formal, and formal nights .
• Do Opt for Versatility: Choose dresses that can be dressed up or down with accessories. This way, you can adapt to different occasions without overpacking.
• Do Consider Comfort: Select dresses that are comfortable for extended wear. Think about breathable fabrics and comfortable fits, especially for daytime activities.
• Do Pack a Formal Option: Even if it’s just one, bring a formal dress for special evenings like captain’s dinners or gala nights.
• Do Think About Layers: Be prepared for varying temperatures. A light shawl or cardigan can be perfect for cooler evenings on the deck.
• Do Play with Color and Patterns: Cruises are a great opportunity to wear vibrant colors and fun patterns that reflect the joy and relaxation of a holiday.
• Do Choose Wrinkle-Resistant Fabrics: Look for fabrics that are less prone to wrinkling , as it can be challenging to iron clothes on a cruise ship.

Don’ts:

• Don’t Overpack: Avoid packing too many dresses. Consider the length of your cruise and plan outfits that can be mixed and matched.
• Don’t Ignore Comfort for Style: While looking great is important, don’t sacrifice comfort, especially for dresses you’ll wear all day.
• Don’t Forget About Footwear: Avoid choosing dresses that don’t match the shoes you’ve packed. Comfortable yet stylish footwear is essential.
• Don’t Disregard Cultural Sensitivities: If your cruise stops in various countries, be mindful of local customs and dress codes, especially in religious or traditional sites.
• Don’t Overlook Daytime Attire: Remember that daytime on a cruise is just as important. Pack casual dresses suitable for excursions and relaxing on the ship.
• Don’t Neglect Dress Length: For formal nights, a longer dress might be more appropriate, whereas shorter dresses can be ideal for casual settings.
• Don’t Underestimate the Wind: On a cruise ship, it can be windy. Choose dresses that won’t easily fly up and cause discomfort or embarrassment.

By following these dos and don’ts, you can ensure a stylish, comfortable, and appropriate wardrobe for your cruise adventure.

Understanding Cruise Dress Code

One of the exciting aspects of a cruise vacation is dressing up for different occasions on board.

Cruise dress codes can vary from one cruise line to another and even between different ships within the same cruise line.

To ensure you’re prepared for any dress code scenario during your cruise, it’s essential to understand the different dress codes and pack accordingly.

Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the cruise dress code:

Casual Wear

• Daytime: During the day, casual attire such as shorts, t-shirts, sundresses, swimwear, and flip-flops are generally acceptable. However, make sure to cover up when you’re not at the pool or beach when on board.
• Evenings: For casual dinners and evenings, resort casual attire is typically recommended. This includes slacks, khakis, jeans, blouses, polo shirts, and casual dresses. Comfortable footwear like sandals or closed-toe shoes is also suitable.

Smart Casual or Resort Casual

• Daytime: Similar to casual wear, resort casual attire works well during the day.
• Evenings: For smart casual dinners and evenings, men can opt for collared shirts, dress slacks, and loafers. Women may choose from dresses, skirts, dressy tops, or tailored pants. Avoid jeans, t-shirts, and flip-flops in the dining areas.

Formal or Elegant Evenings

• Daytime: Even on formal nights, daytime attire remains casual.
• Evenings: On formal or elegant evenings, cruise lines often encourage passengers to dress up. Men can wear tuxedos, suits, or dress shirts and ties. Women can choose from evening gowns, cocktail dresses, or elegant pantsuits. Remember to pack appropriate footwear, such as dress shoes or heels.

Themed Nights

• Many cruises host themed nights, such as tropical or 80s-themed parties. These provide a fun opportunity to get creative with your wardrobe and join in the festivities.

Specialty Dining

• Some cruise lines offer specialty dining venues with dress codes that may require more formal attire. Be sure to check in advance if you plan to dine in these restaurants.

Practical Considerations

• Don’t forget to pack swimwear, cover-ups, and appropriate footwear for poolside lounging and shore excursions.
• Consider the climate and itinerary of your cruise. If you’re visiting cooler destinations, bring appropriate layers and outerwear.
• Comfortable walking shoes are essential for shore excursions and exploring ports of call.

Cruise Line Specifics

• Each cruise line has its own dress code policy, so it’s crucial to review their guidelines before packing. Some cruise lines are more relaxed, while others have stricter dress codes for formal nights.

Laundry and Dry Cleaning

• Most cruise ships offer laundry and dry-cleaning services (at a cost). This allows you to re-wear clothing and pack lighter.

Packing Tips

• Plan your outfits in advance to ensure you have appropriate attire for each day and evening.
• Roll your clothes to save space in your suitcase and minimize wrinkles.
• Don’t forget accessories like jewelry, scarves, and belts to elevate your outfits.

Remember that cruise dress codes are intended to enhance the overall experience and atmosphere on board.

While adhering to the dress code, also focus on comfort and personal style to make the most of your cruise vacation. By packing a variety of clothing options, you’ll be well-prepared for any dress code scenario during your cruise.

FAQs on Cruise Dresses

Cruise dress codes and attire expectations can sometimes be confusing, especially for first-time cruisers.

To help you better understand what to wear on your cruise vacation, here are some frequently asked questions and their answers:

1. What is the dress code for a cruise?

• Cruise dress codes can vary widely depending on the cruise line, ship, and specific dining venues. They typically include casual, smart casual, formal, and themed dress nights.

2. How many formal nights are there on a cruise?

• The number of formal or elegant nights on a cruise can vary, but it’s common to have one or two formal nights on a week-long cruise. Some cruise lines have optional formal nights, while others may require formal attire.

3. Can I skip formal night on a cruise?

• While you can choose not to participate in formal night activities, dining in the main dining rooms may require adherence to the dress code. Specialty dining venues often offer more flexibility.

4. What should I wear on casual nights?

• Casual nights typically allow for resort-style clothing, such as khakis, slacks, dresses, and casual tops. Avoid swimwear, tank tops, and flip-flops in dining areas.

5. What is smart casual attire for a cruise?

• Smart casual attire includes collared shirts, dress slacks, dresses, skirts, and dressy tops. It’s a step up from casual wear but not as formal as elegant attire.

6. What should I wear on formal nights?

• On formal nights, men can wear tuxedos, suits, or dress shirts with ties. Women may choose from evening gowns, cocktail dresses, or elegant pantsuits.

7. Can I wear jeans on a cruise ship?

• While jeans are generally discouraged in dining venues on formal and smart casual nights, many cruise lines permit them in casual dining areas during the evening.

8. Are themed nights common on cruises?

• Yes, many cruises host themed nights like tropical or 80s-themed parties. These are fun opportunities to get creative with your wardrobe.

9. Can I do laundry on a cruise ship?

• Most cruise ships offer laundry and dry-cleaning services, making it convenient to re-wear clothing and pack lighter.

10. How can I avoid overpacking for my cruise?

• Plan your outfits in advance, focusing on mix-and-match pieces. Check the cruise itinerary to pack appropriately for shore excursions and varying climates.

11. What should I wear on a cruise shore excursion?

• Dress comfortably and consider the activity. For beach excursions, bring swimwear and cover-ups. For city tours, wear comfortable walking shoes and lightweight clothing.

12. Can I wear shorts in the main dining room on a cruise?

• On casual and smart casual nights, cruise lines often permit shorts in the main dining room. However, it’s best to check the specific cruise line’s policy.

13. Can I wear flip-flops to dinner on a cruise?

• While flip-flops are suitable for casual daytime wear, they are typically discouraged in dining areas during dinner service.

14. Should I pack formal attire for a cruise with no formal nights?

• It’s still a good idea to bring some dressier clothing for specialty dining or themed nights, even if there are no formal dress code nights on your cruise.

15 Comfortable Travel Dresses That Are Totally Packable

You’ll look stylish en route and upon arrival.

Our editors handpick the products that we feature. We may earn commission from the links on this page.

Whatever you're thinking, warm-weather destinations call for a few staples: a swimsuit , a cover-up , flip-flops , and sunglasses top the list. Another nice-to-have? A travel dress that goes the distance. Travel dresses are versatile pieces of clothing that instantly complete your getaway capsule. They're comfortable, multifunctional, one-and-done travel pieces that will withstand long days of adventuring.

Our Top Picks :

Best Budget Travel Dress

Amazon essentials midi a-line dress.

Best White Travel Dress

By anthropologie the kallie flowy maxi dress.

Best Striped Travel Dress

Caslon stripe cotton gauze shirtdress in ivory cloud.

Best Organic Cotton Travel Dress

Quince 100 percent organic cotton tiered maxi dress.

Best Maxi Travel Dress

Athleta presidio traveler maxi dress.

Best Travel Dress on Amazon

Sopliagon cotton and linen shirtdress.

Best Travel Dress for Hot Weather

Columbia freezer tank dress.

Best Petite Travel Dress

Ann taylor double knit midi flare dress.

Talbot's Easy Travel Fit & Flare Dress

Chico's Travelers Side Slit Maxi Dress

The most packable styles are those made of wrinkle-resistant fabrics, but you'll also want to keep an eye out for breathable materials that keep you cool when you’re on the go. Relaxed fits and modest silhouettes are easy to wear on the plane (anyone else like to curl up in their seat and binge on mini pretzels?), while versatile T-shirt styles and flowy maxis are road-trip-ready. And how can we forget pockets?! Never more convenient, they’re perfect to hold your ticket to the museum, stash your sunglasses, or even carry some hand sanitizer.

When you're exploring on your feet all day, pair your dress with super-comfy, minimalist sneakers before swapping them with walkable wedges for a night out—consider your packing woes solved. To bid you bon voyage, we found the most comfortable women's travel dresses that will get you jet-set prepped in no time.

From sightseeing to happy hour, this sunny, travel-ready dress will keep you comfortable wherever you go. The breezy fit keeps things relaxed, while short sleeves and a below-the-knee hemline keep you covered.

Colors: Yellow floral, black, blue and white stripe, pink, navy, and green vine print

Available Sizes: XS to 2X

Ideal for both beach breaks and lounging at the hotel or home, this dreamy gauze pullover will definitely become a go-to. Petites and plus sizes, rejoice—it comes in an extended range of sizes (and colors!). Colors: White, black, sage, red, blue green, and mauve

Available Sizes: XXS to 3X

It's called the vacation shirtdress for a reason. The easy, breezy style is easy to throw on, comfortable to wear for hours on end, and looks great in pictures, to boot. If stripes aren't your style, it also comes in pretty solids like navy, black, and white.

Colors: Blue stripe and pink stripe

Available Sizes: XXS to 2X

Crafted from 100 percent organic cotton poplin for maximum lightness, Quince's bright maxi is a holiday dream dress. A long hemline and short sleeves offer coverage while tiered layers and functional pockets add thoughtful details.

Colors: Vermillion red, light blue, navy, and black

Available Sizes: XS to XL

Roll up this high-low hem maxi and toss it in your bag—it's lightweight, soft, and wrinkle-proof so you don't have to worry about malfunctions on the go. A relaxed silhouette makes this dress a no-brainer— and there are pockets.

Colors: Black, rose wood, olive, and navy

Nail casual cool in this comfy long-sleeved shirtdress, which also works equally well over a swimsuit. It's an Amazon gem that won't take too much room in your bag and won't break the bank.

Colors: Apricot, olive green, black, black plaid, light blue, gray, denim, purple, navy, pink, red, rose, white, white stripe, and royal blue

Available Sizes: S to 2X

Venturing to a hot and humid destination? You'll want this tank dress with cooling properties, anti-sweat technology, and UPF protection. Also available in plus-size and maxi-length options.

Colors: Black

Available Sizes: XS to 3X

With short sleeves, a tailored waistline, and midi hemline, Ann Taylor's double knit flare dress is flattering on a range of body types. Available in an extended range of sizes from petite to tall, wear it on the plane with sleek sneakers and then out to dinner with comfortable heels or strappy sandals.

Available Sizes: 00 to 18

Talbot's Easy Travel Fit & Flare Dress

Made from a wrinkle-resistant fabric, this flattering fit-and-flare travel dress is ideal for planes, trains, automobiles, and everything in between. While the below-the-knee hemline offers just enough coverage, it's also a great layering piece. It also comes in petite and plus sizes.

Colors: Navy and black

Available Sizes: 2 to 24

Opt for pretty in pink with Chico's travel-ready maxi dress. It's made from a wrinkle-resistant fabric that looks fresh in transit or just out of your suitcase. Not only is it universally flattering, but elbow-length sleeves and a longer hemline keep you extra comfy. If pink's not for you, there's a shorter-sleeve version in black and green.

Colors: Fresh plum pink

J.Crew Elena Shirtdress in Striped Cotton Poplin

A breezy cotton shirtdress is a good idea when you want to feel comfortable and look polished. With a cinched waist and roomy cuffed sleeves, this beauty from J.Crew is as good as it gets.

Colors: Blue and white stripe, white, black, and green

Billabong Jet Set Dress

With traveling right in its name, this dress is made with a relaxed fit and pullover style, perfect for vacation and travel. A V-neckline and short bell sleeves enhance the flattering silhouette.

Colors: Moss meadow

Available Sizes: XS to M

Madewell 100 Percent Cotton Melody Smocked Midi Dress

Whether you choose the petite or plus-size style, you can't go wrong with Madewell's flattering sundress. A smocked, fitted bodice is balanced thanks to a billowing midi skirt that you'll look forward to wearing from the airport to vacation dinners.

Colors: Black and pistachio

Available Sizes: XXS to 4X

Old Navy Fit & Flare Linen-Blend Midi Dress

Kick off your holiday with a Riviera-inspired striped linen sundress. A fitted bodice acts as an ideal foundation for an in-flight sweater or denim jacket, while the below-the-knee hemline offers just the right amount of coverage.

Colors: Blue and white stripe

Available Sizes: XS to 4X

O'Neill Reid Light Blue Multi-Stripe Button-Up Midi Dress

Stripes are a summer staple, and this lightweight button-up dress is sure to get tons of wear time. Short sleeves and a below-the-knee hemline balance the V-neckline.

Colors: Green and blue stripe

Available Sizes: S to XL

Sara Klausing covers all things fashion and style for Oprah Daily . Follow her on Instagram .

Paula Lee is a freelance Fashion Editor. Off duty, she can be found day-tripping around the tri-state area, hanging around farm animals, or browsing the library stacks.

16 of the Most Stylish Weekender Bags for Women

Best Backpacks for Work, Travel

Luggage Perfect for International Travel

15 Essential Travel Accessories to Pack Now

25 Best Beach Hats for Sunny Days Ahead

Comfy and Cool Travel Pants for Your Next Getaway

The Best Places to Travel Alone

20 Makeup Bags That’ll Keep You Organized

34 Stimulating Things to Do Alone

The Best Fanny Packs for Hands-Free Travel

20 Beautiful Places to See Fall Foliage

25 Best Travel Dresses to Pack for Every Occasion and Destination

Comfortable picks that work for all seasons.

Every item on this page was chosen by a Woman's Day editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

Whether you’re taking a much-needed girlfriend getaway , a sun-soaked family vacation , or sailing on a Disney cruise with your crew, your best travel dress should keep you looking and feeling good. Ditch the notion that traveling is synonymous with frumpy sweats and unflattering athleisure pieces. Up your travel game with a comfortable, yet stylish travel dress that will take your jet set look to new heights.

Before settling on a frock, make sure that it’s easy to pack, wrinkle-free, and can take you from day to night in an instant. Remember, these basic elements are fundamental to finding the perfect travel dress for your trip. Plus, they’re a godsend for those who are prone to overpacking. Skip stuffing your luggage with space-stealing separates — an all-in-one piece makes room for accessories and shoes to round out your travel wardrobe. Also don’t stress about ironing, these key garments should be get-up-and-go ready and shouldn’t require pressing.

Meet the Expert: Alena Le Blanc is the personal stylist and founder of Le Blanc Label . Based out of the Bay Area in California, she works both in-person and virtually with female professionals and entrepreneurs. She uses her design background and knowledge of fabrics, fit, and form to help create wardrobes for her clients that are both personal and purposeful.

The best travel dresses to buy in 2024:

Most Comfortable Travel Dress

Quince tencel jersey fit & flare dress.

Best Overall Travel Dress

Women's casual loose sundress with pockets.

Best T-shirt Travel Dress

Sweaty betty revive cotton blend t-shirt dress.

Best Travel Dress for Work

Boho ruffle dress with puff sleeve.

Best A-Line Travel Dress

Hill house the ellie nap dress.

Best Linen Travel Dress

Love, bonito brynn fit & flare linen dress.

Best Size Range Travel Dress

Universal standard iconic geneva dress.

Best Moisture-Wicking Travel Dress

Athleta santorini midi dress.

Best Halter Travel Dress

Halter sleeveless mini dress.

Best Maternity Travel Dress

Maternity off-shoulder dress.

Simply put, the perfect travel dress is comfortable, low-maintenance, and stylish. Keep reading for our top picks and expert tips on what to look for when shopping.

Quince Tencel Jersey Fit & Flare Dress

Soft, stretchy, and oh-so comfortable, this versatile fit and flare midi dress also has a price that can't be beat. No matter where the day takes you, this flattering dress will rise to the occasion. Plus, it has pockets!

Traveling isn't always easy, but your fashion choices should be. If you're on the hunt for a dress that feels like your favorite loungewear, this is a sure bet. Thousands of reviewers praise its relaxed feel and overall comfy design.

This elevated essential boasts a relaxed style with a classic ribbed crew neck. The raw seams in the front and back add interest and dimension. Pair with stylish flats or comfy sneakers for a chic or sporty look.

Whether for a casual work meeting or lunch with colleagues during a business trip, this breezy boho dress is fun, flattering, and still modest enough for an office setting.

Creators of the trendy “nap dress,” Hill House put prairie-style dresses with a fresh twist on the map. Sure, you can take a nap in this dreamy dress, but you won’t want to — you’ll want to show it off and twirl at every chance. Reviewers rave about the dress’s “versatility and comfort.”

Love, Bonito Brynn Fit & Flare Linen Dress

Fall in love with this fit and flare linen dress. The sweetheart neckline adds an alluring feminine flair while the midi length and silhouette offers versatility.

In addition to a large range of sizes and colors, this staple cotton dress from Universal Standard also comes in different styles (crew neck, v-neck, petite) and sleeve lengths (tank, short sleeve, long sleeve), so you can customize to create your perfect travel dress.

Athleta is popular for pieces that are conducive with active lifestyles. This sorbet-hued, scoop neck dress is ideal for travelers who enjoy exploring and being on-the-go, but still desire a stylish look. Since Tencel is a sustainable fabric that is both absorptive and breathable, it keeps wearers cool and helps regulate body temperatures.

Want to show off your shoulders? This sleeveless halter dress puts them in the spotlight. Plus, the pleats provide a sleek and sophisticated silhouette.

Women make many sacrifices, but compromising style during pregnancy shouldn't be one. This comfortable, off-the-shoulder dress costs less than $40 and will have expecting moms looking like a million bucks.

Lulus Manhattan Moment Ruffled Midi Wrap Dress

Wear this romantic frock if you want all eyes on you. Flowy and effortlessly chic, the wrap design accentuates your waistline while the ruffle hem adds a sexy twist. Plus, it can double as a nice cover-up.

Button-Down Pocket Dress

Who needs a purse with pockets this deep? Stash your cell phone and other key essentials in these handy hideaways. Additionally, the bright yellow hue adds a cheery vibe.

A New Day Sleeveless Ballet Dress

No travel wardrobe is complete without a classic cotton-blend dress. Thanks to the billowy, easy-to-wear skirt, this frock works for a variety of occasions. Plus, the bright pink color adds a fun and playful vibe.

The Somerset Collection by Anthropologie Eyelet Mini Dress

Watch onlookers’ eyes light up when you show up in this delightful dress. The sweet eyelet design adds character to this universally flattering silhouette.

Short-Sleeve Crewneck Dress

Traveling for work ? This bodycon pencil dress doesn’t miss. You’re guaranteed to look polished at your next in-person meeting with this tie-front dress. The scoop neck design and cap sleeves add a relaxed yet sophisticated feel for when you want to mix business with pleasure.

Gap Puff Sleeve Denim Mini Shirtdress

Nothing is as timeless or versatile as denim. This soft, drop-waist dress screams ease. With 3/4 puff sleeves and front slant pockets, it provides a functional yet fashionable flair that's great for on-the-go.

Show Me Your Mumu Trish Dress

Blend in with the beach in this bright blue one-shoulder mini that’s as light as a feather. Perfect for a romantic dinner or fun girlfriend getaway, this flirty chiffon number will keep you cool and comfortable.

Everyday Cloudful 2-in-1 Flare Workout Dress

If staying active while traveling is a priority, then this one-piece will help you break a sweat in style. Designed to feel soft and lightweight, this stretchy activewear is trendy and functional. Plus, it has side pockets to hold your essentials.

Everlane The Ribbed Tank Dress

You can’t go wrong with a ribbed tank dress. It’s a blank canvas that can be dressed up or down with the right accessories. Add a denim jacket for a casual look or wear a pair of strappy heels for an elevated one. One reviewer noted, “The cotton is thick enough to camouflage the little lumps and bumps while still being breathable and comfortable.”

GRACE KARIN Wrap Bridesmaid Cocktail Party Dress

With more than 20,000 reviews and a nearly perfect rating, this ultra-flattering dress is a popular stunner. The non-wrinkle material makes packing seamless and the dance floor-ready flared skirt offers an after-five look, perfect for destination weddings or cocktail parties.

Karla Pope is a longtime writer, editor and blogger with nearly two decades of editorial experience. She’s written for a variety of outlets including Good Housekeeping , Woman’s Day , People , Parade , BET.com. WebMD and more. Her coverage includes entertainment, beauty, lifestyle, parenting and fashion content. If she's not exploring New York City with her two young children, you can find her curled up on the couch watching a documentary and eating gummy bears. 

.css-2lr79s:before{top:1.4rem;left:calc(-50vw + 50%);width:100vw;height:0.0625rem;z-index:-1;content:'';position:absolute;border-top:0.0625rem solid #CDCDCD;} Style

12 Best Travel Backpacks for All Your Essentials

The 20 Best Wallets for Women, Starting at Just $7

We Found This Summer's Hottest Dresses on Amazon

The 10 Best Summer Leggings of 2024

The 30 Best Summer Clothes to Shop on Amazon

35 Best Wedding Guest Dresses Places to Shop

What to Wear Easter Sunday

14 Best Work Sneakers to Wear in the Office

The Best Spring Wedding Guest Dresses of 2024

The 25 Best Amazon Swimsuits of 2024

18 Purim Costume Ideas for Kids

Protect Your Trip »

What to wear on a cruise: daytime, formal nights & more.

Experts share their top recommendations for versatile cruise clothing.

What to Wear on a Cruise

Getty Images

Know what types of clothing, shoes and accessories are best to wear on a cruise.

When it comes to cruising in style, packing the right attire for every occasion is essential. Including a few key versatile items on your cruise packing list will prevent your suitcase (and the limited closet space in your stateroom) from becoming overcrowded – and keep you looking appropriate for all events.

Although most cruise lines outline their suggested dress codes in the FAQ sections of their websites, be sure to also review the specifics of your cruise itinerary. Not only will the destination and weather factor into what you should wear on your cruise, but you'll also want to know if formal nights require black-tie attire, themed dress parties need costumes or shore excursions necessitate unique clothing or footwear.

Whether you'll be lounging by the pool or attending a glamorous dinner, our list of must-have items and suggestions from industry experts will help you navigate dressing for your next cruise vacation.

For relaxing sea days, prioritize comfort above all else. Depending on your planned activities, any of the following casual options are considered acceptable attire:

• Skirts or skorts
• T-shirts and tank tops
• Breezy lounge pants
• Bathing suits
• Cover-ups 
• Sun hats or baseball caps

Travel writer Jill Schildhouse always packs her VOTEPRETTY sundress . "This is my go-to cruise workhorse," says Schildhouse. "It's light and breezy, and the pockets come in very handy." She adds that the sundress can be worn to casual dinners on the ship or on shore excursions, and it can even double as a swimsuit cover-up. "I've taken it all over the world and it always arrives wrinkle-free," she says. Schildhouse has received many compliments on this classic sundress, which is available in multiple colors.

Sheri Griffiths, host of YouTube series CruiseTipsTV , suggests wearing comfortable, broken-in shoes on a cruise. She recommends avoiding brand-new footwear during your voyage to prevent blisters and daily discomfort. A basic sneaker can be worn for just about any cruise itinerary, from Alaska to the Caribbean . Griffiths says, "We love these Adidas Stan Smiths because they wear in quickly and have a timeless style."

Read: The Top Walking Shoes for Travel

In the evening, most cruise ships adopt a dress code in their main dining rooms and specialty restaurants that incorporate smart-casual or resort-wear attire. The following clothing choices will suffice:

• Maxi dresses
• Elegant tops
• Long- or short-sleeved button-down shirts
• Polo shirts
• Blazers and ties (typically optional, unless otherwise stated)
• Shawls or wraps
• Closed-toe dress shoes
• Sandals or heels

Colleen McDaniel, editor-in-chief at Cruise Critic, shares her best advice for cruise footwear. "I always pack my Rothy's shoes for any cruise because they're infinitely comfortable, work as both a formal and [an] informal shoe and can be tossed in the laundry if they get dirty." She notes that she has several pairs, but two of her go-to styles are The Point and The Ballet Flat . McDaniel adds that the shoes work in every occasion, from strolling along the ship decks to perusing cobblestone streets on shore. "I bought both [pairs] 5 years ago, and they look as new today as they did out of the box despite literally hundreds of hours of wear," she says.

Jason Leppert, founder of YouTube channel Popular Cruising , always packs his signature Hawaiian shirts to wear day or night. He says, "I love the RSVLTS collection because they can play casually with shorts or more dressy with slacks for dinner."

Formal Nights

While more casual these days, cruise formal nights still call for a bit more sophistication and style. Appropriate options include:

• Cocktail dresses
• Evening gowns
• Dress shoes

Ashley Kosciolek, senior cruise writer for The Points Guy, always packs a gown or a fancy cocktail dress for a formal night. "I work from home and don't have a reason to dress up otherwise, so I look forward to it." Still, Kosciolek is a firm believer that travelers should wear what is most comfortable for them while on vacation. She adds, "My dinner won't taste any better or worse based on what others are wearing."

Mikkel Woodruff, editor of cruise site Sometimes Sailing , always brings her Omega Sailing Bracelet on cruises. She says, "I like to bring jewelry that reminds me of the ocean and being on the sea." Woodruff appreciates the bracelet's versatility, noting how easily it can go from shore excursions to formal evenings to everyday activities.

Explore cruise deals on  GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

Shore Excursions

When heading off the ship for a shore excursion, opt for comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy footwear to make the most of your adventures on land. Consider packing the following items:

• Comfortable walking shoes
• Mesh water shoes
• T-shirts or tank tops
• A waterproof jacket

Freelance travel writer David Swanson shares his favorite versatile cruise shoes. He discovered a comfortable pair of Danner multitasking shoes that worked for dinners, casual events and multiple days of cycling on a recent European cruise. "I didn't think I'd find something to do dual duty, but I love this comfy pair from Danner, an outdoor brand [that is] new to me but has been around since 1932," says Swanson.

Paul Thornton, host of The Joy of Cruising Podcast , always packs his Coofandy linen shirts and shorts for hot Caribbean days and breezy cruise ship evenings. "I love Coofandy because they enable this senior to look 'youthful' on the beach and excursions," says Thornton. He adds that the brand is also his go-to retailer for White Party-themed nights on board.

Read: Beach Packing List

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks Newsletter

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

Sign up to receive the latest updates from U.S News & World Report and our trusted partners and sponsors. By clicking submit, you are agreeing to our Terms and Conditions & Privacy Policy .

Cruise Line Dress Codes

Dress codes can vary significantly from one cruise company to the next, so it's a good idea to check with your specific line before filling up your suitcase. Once you're on board, be sure to read the daily program for reminders about the dress codes required at the events and dining venues during your voyage.

Azamara Dress Code

• Daytime: Fairly casual attire is suitable throughout Azamara 's ships during the day. However, baseball caps, distressed denim, tank tops and bathing suits cannot be worn at Discoveries, Aqualina and Prime C restaurants (and shoes are required).
• Evening: At night, women typically wear casual dresses, skirts, pants, capris, blouses and knit tops, while men are welcome to wear collared golf and polo shirts, shorts and pants. Sport coats are optional. Note: There are no official formal nights on Azamara's voyages.
• Themed Nights: Be sure to pack an all-white outfit for Azamara's signature White Night dinner and deck party.

Carnival Cruise Line Dress Code

• Daytime: Pack casual, comfortable attire to sail with Carnival Cruise Line , such as T-shirts, polo shirts or relaxed tops paired with shorts, capris, khakis or jeans. Athletic wear paired with a lightweight sweater or jacket are suitable for those looking to stay active. 
• "Cruise casual" attire for men typically suggests longer dress shorts, pants or jeans and a collared polo shirt. Women usually wear sundresses, blouses, skirts, dress shorts and capri pants.
• "Cruise elegant" typically translates to dress slacks, dress shirts and sports coats (suggested) for men, with some wearing suits, ties or tuxedos. Women choose dresses (party or cocktail), pantsuits and elegant skirts with blouses, while some may wear evening gowns. Kids should follow the adult dress code, opting for school dance- or party-appropriate attire. Note: Jeans, men's sleeveless shirts, shorts, T-shirts, sportswear, exercise clothes, baseball hats, flip-flops and bathing suits are not permitted. The number of "cruise elegant" evenings varies based on the length of the cruise.
• Carnival Journeys cruises feature a "Throwback Sea Day," where guests can relive the '80s by day (outfits included) and dress up for a themed Captain's Cocktail Party by night. 
• Cruises between early December and Christmas Day feature an "Ugly Sweater Contest."
• Costumes are suggested for Halloween cruises between the end of September and October. However, when choosing a costume, keep in mind that full masks are prohibited (masks covering half of the face are allowed).

Celebrity Cruises Dress Code

• Daytime: During the day, smart casual resort wear is suitable throughout Celebrity Cruises ' ships. (Think: sundresses, shorts, polos and button-down shirts paired with sandals, low heels and loafers.) Bathing suits with cover-ups, T-shirts, tank tops, hats and sunglasses are only appropriate poolside. Cruisers should avoid wearing these items in the dining areas.
• Evening: Most evenings, guests are expected to wear comfortable yet tasteful attire. This entails dresses, skirts, long pants or jeans, stylish tops and button-down shirts. Shorts and flip-flops do not meet the evening dress code. Depending on your voyage, there will be one or two formal nights that require "evening chic" wear. Passengers can dress to impress in formal gowns, tuxedos, cocktail dresses, dressy jeans or blazers.

Costa Cruises Dress Code

• Daytime: During the day, Costa Cruises ' passengers may wear casual clothing like T-shirts, shorts and sundresses. Beach clothing and flip-flops are not permitted in ship restaurants. Depending on the itinerary, some shore excursions may have specific dress codes.
• Evening: Most nights require resort attire; however, Costa hosts one or two Elegant Evenings per cruise, when men may wear dark suits or tuxedos and women can wear evening gowns or cocktail dresses.
• Themed Nights: Costa recommends that guests pack white clothing for its White Night events and white, red and green clothing and accessories for its Italy-themed evenings.

Cunard Line Dress Code

• Daytime: Shorts, T-shirts and sundresses are appropriate daytime wardrobe options on sailings with Cunard Line . Swimwear is acceptable by the pool but should not be worn in indoor dining areas.
• Evening: In the evenings, passengers are asked to wear smart attire, which includes dress shirts and trousers for men, and cocktail dresses or sophisticated tops and skirts for women – similar to what you'd choose for dinner at a trendy restaurant or a special occasion. Voyages lasting seven nights host at least two Gala Evenings, during which guests are requested to adhere to a more formal dress code. 
• Themed Nights: Gala Evenings employ themes ranging from specific colors (such as black and white or red and gold outfits) to the roaring '20s to masquerade balls.

Disney Cruise Line Dress Code

• Daytime: On Disney Cruise Line sailings, cruise casual attire is acceptable during the day; outfit options include sundresses and shorts and tees. Swimwear and tank tops are not permitted in dining venues.
• Evening: After the sun sets, polished attire like collared shirts and jeans without rips are acceptable. Bathing suits, tees, tank tops and sports attire are not allowed. Adult-exclusive dining venues on Disney ships call for elegance; formal or semiformal wear is recommended.
• Themed Nights: On three- and four-night sailings, there is typically a pirate-themed deck party and one optional dress-up night for guests of all ages. Sailings lasting seven nights or longer add one formal and one semiformal night, when women may wear a formal dress or pantsuit and men can opt for a suit or dress pants with a jacket.

Holland America Line Dress Code

• Daytime: Plan on wearing casual attire aboard Holland America Line 's ships during the day. When indoors, guests must wear shirts, cover-ups and footwear.
• Evening: On most nights, smart casual clothing is acceptable. However, in table service restaurants, shorts, bathing suits, distressed jeans and tank tops are prohibited. Grand Voyages cruises host formal nights, when suits and dresses are appropriate.
• Themed Nights: Once per cruise, Holland America hosts an Orange Party in celebration of King's Day. Pack your favorite orange clothing and accessories for this event, which honors the cruise line's Dutch heritage.

MSC Cruises Dress Code

• Daytime: Guests of MSC Cruises dress fairly casual during the day in T-shirts and shorts.
• Evening: Collared shirts, dresses and tailored pants are expected at night in the main dining rooms, specialty restaurants and entertainment venues. There is one optional Gala Night, when varying levels of elegance are acceptable. Guests should wear what makes them feel comfortable, ranging from tuxedos or ball gowns to dressy jeans and polo shirts.
• Themed Nights: MSC hosts a White Night Party (where guests wear all white) and a Sunshine Party, where guests don cheerful colors.

Norwegian Cruise Line Dress Code

• Daytime: During the day, plan to wear cruise casual attire like summer dresses, jeans, khakis, shorts and casual shirts on Norwegian Cruise Line voyages. At the buffet and outdoor restaurants, swimwear can be worn with a cover-up and footwear. In dining rooms and specialty restaurants, Norwegian does not permit tank tops for men, jeans with rips or tears, flip-flops, baseball caps or visors.
• Evening: In Norwegian's upscale specialty restaurants, smart casual attire is the norm. Women can wear slacks, jeans, dresses, skirts and tops, while men should opt for jeans or slacks, a collared shirt and closed-toed shoes. Children ages 12 and younger may wear shorts in all restaurants. On each cruise, there is one particular "Dress-Up or Not Night," when guests can wear fancier clothing (if they choose).
• Themed Nights: Pack an all-white outfit for the White Hot Party and formal attire for Norwegian's Night Out.

Princess Cruises Dress Code

• Daytime: In Princess Cruises ' restaurants and public spaces, casual resort wear is required. Shoes must be worn in the dining areas, and pool or beach attire, ball caps and frayed jeans are prohibited in restaurants.
• Evening: On most nights, smart casual attire is acceptable in restaurants. However, on formal evenings, women may wear evening gowns, cocktail dresses or elegant pantsuits; while men may opt for tuxedos, dark suits or dinner jackets with slacks. The number of formal nights per cruise depends on the length of the sailing.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises Dress Code

• Daytime: Elevated resort wear, including jeans, shorts, T-shirts and tennis shoes, is appropriate before 6 p.m. on Regent Seven Seas Cruises ' ships.
• Evening: At night, elegant casual attire is recommended. Women typically dresses, pantsuits or slacks paired with blouses or sweaters; a collared shirt and dress pants for men is the norm, with the option for sport jackets and ties. On cruises lasting 16 nights or longer, there are two evenings when guests can choose to wear formal or semiformal attire. Wardrobe choices include dark suits and cocktail dresses or tuxedos and gowns. Note: On the last night of every voyage, the dinner dress code is "relaxed casual" to accommodate guests packing for early morning flights.

Royal Caribbean International Dress Code

• Daytime: A relaxed, casual style is acceptable during the day on cruises with Royal Caribbean International . However, swimwear should be limited to the pool deck. 
• Evening: On most nights, guests wear smart casual attire, which includes collared or button-up shirts, dresses, skirts, blouses and pantsuits. Jackets, sports coats and blazers are encouraged but not required. On formal evenings and for the Chef's Table dining experience, cruisers are expected to wear black-tie attire, which includes tuxedos, suits with ties, cocktail dresses and evening gowns. The number of formal nights per cruise depends on the length of the sailing.
• Themed Nights: Offered on cruises lasting four nights or longer, themed nights may include toga parties, masquerade balls, decade themes and black and white nights.

Silversea Cruises Dress Code

• Daytime: Casual attire akin to what you'd wear at a five-star resort is suitable during the day aboard Silversea Cruises ' ships.
• Evening: Evening attire is categorized into three groups: casual, informal and formal. On casual evenings, women wear pants, blouses, skirts, and casual dresses, while men wear open-neck shirts and slacks. On informal evenings, ladies often choose dresses or pantsuits, and gentlemen typically wear jackets (ties are optional). Formal night is always optional; if you choose to participate, outfits may include cocktail dresses, gowns, tuxedos and suits. The number of formal nights per cruise varies by voyage length.

Seabourn Cruise Line Dress Code

• Daytime: Casual resort wear like jeans and shorts are welcome in all lounges and dining venues on Seabourn Cruise Lines ' ships. Athletic apparel and swimwear should only be worn in the pool area, on the deck or at the spa and fitness center.
• Evening: After 6 p.m., the dress code is "elegant casual." Men are expected to wear slacks with collared shirts or sweaters (jackets are optional), while women can choose pants, skirts, pantsuits or dresses. Elegant jeans are allowed in all dining venues except The Restaurant. On formal evenings in The Restaurant, men may wear tuxedos, suits or slacks and jackets, while women can opt for evening gowns and cocktail dresses.

Viking Ocean Cruises Dress Code

• Daytime: On Viking Ocean Cruises ' ships, casual daytime clothing such as shorts, pants, jeans and comfortable walking shoes are acceptable. Athletic wear including exercise clothing, swimsuits and cover-ups may only be worn in the fitness center, pool zones and sports deck.
• Evening: While there are no dedicated formal nights, the dress code after 6 p.m. calls for elegant casual attire for all dining venues, lounges, bars and theaters. Jeans are not permitted (with the exception of the World Cafe, where the dress code remains casual in the evenings). For women, wardrobe options include dresses, jumpsuits, skirts or slacks paired with elegant tops. Jackets and ties are optional for men, but trousers and collared shirts should be worn in the evenings.

Virgin Voyages Dress Code

• Day or night, cruisers on Virgin Voyages ' ships are encouraged to wear attire that expresses their personal style. Just note: In restaurants, bathing suits are not permitted, and shoes are necessary. There are no formal nights; guests can dress up or down, depending on what makes them feel their best.
• Themed Nights: Pack something scarlet red for the Scarlet Night Party, which occurs once per voyage.

Why Trust U.S. News

Dana Freeman is a highly experienced cruise writer who embarked on her first cruise with her grandmother when she was just 12 years old, and she hasn't stopped since. Having sailed on more than 20 different cruise lines and completed over 30 voyages, Freeman's cruise expertise spans from small ships accommodating only eight passengers to massive ones accommodating over 5,000. To curate this article, she leveraged her extensive knowledge of the cruise ship industry, combined with her strong research skills.

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Themed Cruises
• The Top Party Cruises
• The Top Gay Cruises
• The Most Festive Christmas Cruises
• The Best Cruise Insurance Plans

Tags: Travel , Cruises

World's Best Places To Visit

• # 1 South Island, New Zealand
• # 4 Bora Bora

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

You May Also Like

The best san francisco tours.

Lyn Mettler May 8, 2024

The Best Water Parks in the U.S.

May 8, 2024

Top Adults-Only Cruises

Gwen Pratesi May 6, 2024

Top-Rated Newport Mansion Tours

Andrea McHugh May 6, 2024

The 9 New York City Boat Tours

Lyn Mettler May 6, 2024

The 13 Best Key West Tours of 2024

Gwen Pratesi May 3, 2024

Essentials to Pack for a Cruise

Gwen Pratesi and Amanda Norcross May 2, 2024

Swimming With Pigs in the Bahamas

Amanda Norcross May 2, 2024

The 15 Best Chicago Tours for 2024

John Rodwan May 1, 2024

The 10 Best Harry Potter Tours in London

Marisa Méndez April 30, 2024

12 Cruise Outfits You’ll Love to Wear

Taking a cruise is a once in a lifetime experience. Cruising gives you the chance to relax by the pool, sightsee & shop at various ports, go on thrilling excursions and dine on incredible meals. A cruise is the ultimate vacation! Plan your cruise outfits carefully and not only will you look good in your photos but you’ll also be able to travel relatively light. Read my complete cruise ship packing list with printable PDF checklist that you can download.

Wondering what to wear on a cruise? Cruise ship attire can be a little tricky to plan, especially if this is your first cruise. Cruise attire varies from a bathing suit & cover up to cocktail dresses and if you’re not careful you can end up way overpacking. With this post, I’ve put together 12 outfits for a cruise that will take you from excursions to evening easily, without stuffing your suitcase. You’ll see that all my cruise clothing can be mixed and matched to create multiple cruise ship outfits from just a few key pieces.

These Caribbean cruise outfits are by no means definitive but I just want to show you how easy cruise wear can be to put together when you know how. With seven basic pieces you can build so many different outfits for cruise activities and excursions, pack light and, most importantly, look fantastic.

Note that this is all Caribbean cruise attire but almost all these outfits would work for a Mediterranean cruise also. You can read my European Cruise Packing List post here.

If you’re looking for advice on what to wear on an Alaskan cruise, please see my Alaska Cruise Packing List for lots of ideas as your outfits for this will be much, much different than the ones listed below.

Cruise Wardrobe Essentials

For a full list of what to bring on a cruise, read my Ultimate Cruise Packing List here.  We also just on our first cruise with Carnival so I created a Carnival cruise packing list too .

My cruise wardrobe ideas are all built on a few key pieces. With these few items and a few well-chosen accessories you can create so many outfits to wear on a cruise! You’ll notice that all the accessories I’ve picked to go with this cruise dress attire have been repeated throughout the outfits. I’ve included plus-size alternatives to the key basic pieces and of course the accessories are all plus-size friendly. I have also tried to pick affordable pieces with many  items coming in under $35.

• White bermuda shorts   – Add a pair of denim shorts too and double the amount of outfits you have. If you don’t do shorts, you can switch these out for capri pants.
• Striped t-shirts   – A couple of striped t-shirts are perfect for a cruise and nicely nautical.
• White jeans   – White jeans or pants are a great cruise outfit. If you don’t want to wear jeans, you can switch these out for linen pants or capri pants. See my list of the best travel pants for more ideas.
• Sundress   – So simple and easy. I’ve gone for a royal blue here but this dress comes in lots of colors. Add a black one in for even more outfit options.
• Maxi dress  – Easy and comfortable to wear on travel days, around the ship or when you feel your waist expanding from all the delicious food onboard! A solid is more versatile than a print but you could easily bring along a second dress in a print.
• Black jumpsuit  – Stylish and versatile. You can build so many cruise outfits ideas with a black jumpsuit as a base. If you’re not comfortable trying out a jumpsuit a black maxi dress would work instead.
• Kimono   – A super lightweight addition to any women’s wardrobe and one of the best cruise wardrobe items. It can be used as a pool cover up with a bathing suit and flip flops.

Here are my Ideas for Best Cruise Outfits!

Bright maxi dress for day.

A maxi dress is one of the best outfits for cruise ship passengers because it is lightweight, comfortable and works with many body types. Just remember to pack a suitable bra if you’re getting one like this with spaghetti straps.

• White cat eye Ray Ban sunglasses
• Floral print scarf
• Brown beach tote
• Tan sandals

Plus size option:

Bright Maxi Dress Dressed Up for Evening

• Black & teal statement necklace & earrings
• Peacock print sequinned purse
• Gold wedge sandals

Colourful Tunic with Shorts for Day

This is perfect casual cruise attire for on or off the ship.

• Colorful tunic
• White vest top for underneath
• White bermuda shorts

Plus size options:

• White bermuda shorts or capri pants if you’re not comfortable in shorts
• Pink tunic or blue print tunic or aqua tunic

Colorful Tunic with White Jeans for Evening

• Gold statement necklace
• Gold wristlet purse
• White jeans

Black Jumpsuit for Sightseeing Excursion

A black jumpsuit is one of the best outfits for a cruise! It’s so versatile and stylish.

• Black jumpsuit
• Aviator sunglasses

Black Jumpsuit for Formal Dining

This jumpsuit goes easily from daywear to attire for Captain’s dinner on a cruise just by switching out the accessories for more glamorous options. If you don’t want to do a jumpsuit then a black dress would also make perfect cruise dinner attire.

• Black sheer & beaded bolero
• Black strappy heels
• Sequin bolero

Striped T-Shirt for Easy Excursions

A nautical-inspired striped t-shirt is one of the nicest cruise wear ideas. Comfortable, practical and easy to wear. I like this one because it’s slightly longer length means it covers my butt but could also be knotted at the side or tucked in and flounced over jeans.

• Striped t-shirt
• Sketchers Go Walk sneakers

Striped T-Shirt for Smart Casual Dining

• Blue statement necklace

Kimono with Sundress for Day

This is classic cruise casual attire and would work for a city sightseeing excursion or a day at the beach. The kimono provides good sun coverage for your back & shoulders and can be worn over a swimsuit as a beach coverup also.

• Sundress (Same dress as picture, goes up to 3XL)

Kimono with Chiffon Vest & White Jeans for Evening

• Chiffon tank top
• Longer length vest top – the one pictured above does go up to 2XL though

Simple Sundress for Informal Evening

Dressed up sundress for formal dining.

Cruise ship dinner attire for formal dining evenings doesn’t have to be a cocktail dress or evening gown. You can dress up a simple sundress with the right accessories.

I hope you enjoyed my cruise wardrobe planner!

These cruise clothes ideas are based on my own experience on two Caribbean cruises. I way overpacked my Caribbean cruise wardrobe on my first cruise. I didn’t know what proper cruise attire was so packed much more than I needed, just in case. By my second cruise I had some practical experience on cruise attire ideas based on what other travelers wore on board and what I did and didn’t use from my first experience. On my second cruise our whole family of four managed to travel in just one carry on backpack!

On my first cruise with RCL I did note that Royal Caribbean cruise attire was slightly dressier in my experience than what we observed on our second cruise with Norwegian. As mentioned above, we just went on a Carnival cruise too so I have put together a packing list for that also.

Now you should have some really good ideas on proper cruise attire for women. Be sure to drop me a comment below to let me know if this blog post helped you pack for your cruise.

Join Our Facebook Group to Chat More About Cruise Packing Tips

If you want to ask a specific question, chat to other cruisers about what to pack for your cruise or share your own cruise packing advice then join our Facebook group on Cruise Packing Tips!  Whether you’re going on a honeymoon cruise , cruising with kids or just treating yourself to a much needed vacation, these outfits should cover it! We would love to help you work out exactly what to pack or hear your own ideas about what gear you use on your cruise. Join us for some fun and friendly discussions.

Pin this post for later!

Use Pinterest to keep track of all your travel and fashion ideas. You can follow my cruising board here and my packing tips board here .

• Send to a Friend

Love your wardrobe planners!

Thank you Mary! 🙂

Thanks a lot didn’t know what to wear

This is some awesome information for my first cruise. I always seem to pack to much. This helps to know how to mix n match perfectly! Thanks

Thanks Kay! I’m glad it’s helpful!

This is great! Has given me lots of ideas for my first cruise. Thanks

Great idea’s! Going on my 2nd cruise on the 19th!

Awesome Karri! Where are you cruising to on this trip?

We’re going to Montego Bay, Georgetown and Cozumel on Carnival!

I am going on my first cruise…a New England cruise on Carnival Sunshine in early September ….what are some suggestions to pack as I am not sure of the weather at that time of year..

Great ideas for a cruise wardrobe and I really like all the outfits.

Thank you for the great cruise wardrobe ideas! We are cruising the Mediterranean at the beginning of October. Do I pack for the Fall/seaon or ignore the season for cruise wear?

Love, love, love this post! Thank you so much for breaking down the clothing into outfits. I am going on a ten day cruise to the Caribbean in February. I am following your packing suggestions. Our cruise will be on an Italian ship (MSC Divina) leaving from Miami. We will be visiting the US Virgin Islands, St. Kitts & Nevis, Martinique, Barbados, and Guadeloupe.

Have you tried the black jumpsuit that you reference on Amazon? I am considering buying it, but I was wondering what your experience has been with it.

As for sandals, I love the Abeo brand available from the Walking Company because of the arch support that they provide. I’ve had plantar fasciitis before, so now I always wear shoes with good arch support.

Awesome Karen! I have plantar fasciitis on and off too so definitely wear comfy sandals. How tall are you? The jumpsuit is long but I’m only 5’2″ so needed it taken up.

This is a brilliant list and I’m even more grateful for the plus sized versions! This will make things so simple! ?

Thanks for the compliment Jennifer! Gotta represent for the plus size ladies! 🙂

I like the combinations but do you really need a hand bag or clutch on a cruise? I never carry a bag so I don’t get it.

No, you don’t need it. Sometimes it’s just nice to have to complete the outfit though. You don’t need it for cash of course but for your cruise card and a bit of extra lipstick to touch up after dinner is always nice. Especially if you’re having photos on formal night.

This was so helpful as I plan my first cruise in April. We are sailing on the Summit from San Juan on a 7 day trip. I am a planner and guilty of overpacking, overthinking scenarios. We are doing 2 excursions and have to consider that attire as well. Thank you

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Flashpacker Family is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com and its partners.

Affiliate advertising is used throughout this site. These affiliate ads allow me to earn a small commission on any bookings you may make but they do not incur any extra cost to you.

You can read our privacy policy here.

Start typing and press Enter to search

Traveling Tulls

Eco-Travel in Retirement – Nature and Sustainable Luxury Travel

The best lightweight, easy-care women’s travel dresses

As an over 60 woman, I plan my travel wardrobe around classic, easy-care items. I take inspiration from the French style of dressing, focusing on solid colors and a classic look in high quality pieces. I accent these with colorful scarves, jackets, and jewelry. A dress fits perfectly into this capsule. Designing your travel style around a simple dress is a great way to pack light and look great! I’ve tested some of the best women’s travel dresses and present my favorites here.

Table of Contents

Why pack a dress for travel?

I’m not your typical dress person. At home you’re more likely to find me in a great pair of jeans or workout wear. But when I’m planning a trip, I want to be ready for anything – museum visits, evenings out, and lots of walking. For me, one of the best options is a travel dress! On cruises, a dress is always on the list. (We don’t book anything that requires formal wear. It’s just not our thing.) On an active adventure where you’re in hiking or cycling clothes by day, it’s nice to have an option for something soft and pretty at night. And in a stretch, a dress can be worn as nightwear! That’s where dresses for travel come in!

This post includes affiliate links. Traveling Tulls may earn a small commission, at no additional expense to you, if you purchase something from one of these links. Unless noted, we were not supplied with the dresses we reviewed here, but were so impressed with the Wool& dress and bike shorts, that we have chosen to partner with Wool& going forward. DISCLOSURE

As a woman over 60, I began traveling IN the sixties. My Dad wore three piece suits, and my mom and I wore dresses. Does that make me a travel dress expert?? No, but it does give me an appreciation for the functionality of dresses.

What makes a great travel dress?

Any piece that makes its way into our bag has to earn its place. Dresses are no exception. Here are our criteria for the perfect travel dress:

1. Packability – lightweight, wrinkle resistant

2. Versatility – I don’t pack anything that I can’t wear more than once. Clothing that has more than one good option is the best way to pack light. Choose a casual dress that can go from daytime touring to evenings out with an accessory or two. A dress that’s convertible gets extra points!

3. Low Maintenance/Ease of Care – who has time for doing laundry on vacation? A sink wash and air dry are usually the most we do on vacation.

4. Sustainable Quality – don’t be fooled by fast fashion. Invest in well made, classic items from ethical companies. Not only is this best for the planet, but it’ll save you money in the long run.

5. Comfort and Pleasure – (Probably the most important yet often forgotten criteria) Do I like how I feel in this dress? Does it work for my body type? Does it fit my personal style? Do I enjoy wearing it?

Choose your color, a dress style you like, and fabric that travels well

Color . The foundation of the French woman’s style is the little black dress. This staple piece is simple yet classy and never goes out of fashion. When creating a French-inspired travel wardrobe , I start with a solid color dress – the base palette – and add color and patterns with other pieces and accessories. Parisian women may favor black as their base, but you should choose what’s best for you, and your skin tone. Navy blue, wine, or dark gray can be more flattering to women over 60. They certainly are for me.

Style . Your choice will depend on your signature style and your destination. Sleeveless styles are great for hot climates, and will work just as well in cold weather when you add layers! But some ladies prefer long sleeves. And some love maxi dresses! (though maxis will take up more luggage space!) Go with what makes you comfortable and what flatters your best features.

Fabric . To earn its place in your bag the dress (and every item really!) has to be lightweight and easy to care for. This is where the fabric choice comes in. For example:

• Cotton is heavy, retains odors, and takes forever to dry.
• Linen is wonderful, but wrinkles can be frustrating.
• Synthetics are very lightweight, but can retain odors.

For ease of care and sustainability we recommend choosing natural fibers such as bamboo, Tencel, and wool for your travel clothing.

Bamboo is quickly becoming a popular material for travel clothing. It’s sustainable and odor resistant.

Merino wool has a natural warmth and resiliency not found in other textiles. Merino sheep, bred originally in Spain, have ultrafine wool which doesn’t provoke the itchy reaction some people experience with wool. AND it’s naturally odor resistant. That means you can wear a merino wool item over and over again, with only an overnight airing out!

Best Women’s Travel Dresses: tested and recommended

• Best Dress for Everyday Travel & Versatility – Wool& Merino Wool
• Best Dresses for a Special Event While Traveling – Chico’s Travelers Collection
• Best Convertible Dress (& Top) – Diane Kroe Origami
• Best Dress for Sun Protection – Coolibar Travel Shirt Dress
• Best of the Rest

Our Top Pick for General Travel & Versatility:

Wool& Merino Wool Dresses

Rowena swing dress, price: $138 USD

• Packability: 11 oz., wrinkle resistant.
• Versatility: simple swing dress, but can be styled as a top or tunic
• Ease of Care: fabric is 78% ultrasoft merino wool and 22% nylon
• Quality: very well made
• Comfort and Pleasure: temperature regulating, very comfortable, and has pockets!

I discovered Wool&, a small Oregon company producing merino wool clothing, through a Facebook ad. To prove the durability and natural odor resistance of merino wool, the company challenged people to wear their dress for 100 days straight. (I can’t imagine they expected this challenge to be so popular or to inspire an online community of women sharing the ups and downs of daily life over 100 days! No doubt the kindest group on social media!) Needless to say, given my interest in merino wool clothing, I was intrigued.

I base my capsule wardrobe on my favorite color, navy blue, so I opted for the Wool& signature item, the Rowena swing dress in marine blue. It’s a wonderful rich blue and I’m thrilled with the color. The dress has a boat neckline which is very flattering (and protective in the sunshine). As this is a swing dress, the body of the dress is loose, flowy, and flattering to my body shape. The material is light and lends itself to dozens of styling tricks and outfit ideas shared by the Facebook community. (There are many different colors available for this and other Wool& dresses)

My Wool& Review: Is this the best dress for traveling?

For the first month of the challenge, I played with the dress. I shopped my closet, pulling out long neglected items to pair with the dress. It was fun being creative with a simple piece of clothing, and truly surprising to pull out the dress each morning to find it as fresh as the day it arrived !

Then I got serious and began testing the dress for travel. I limited myself to a small capsule and worked on different outfits for different travel scenarios. First I wore the dress to my grandchild’s christening, and then another granddaughter’s lacrosse game. I wore it during zoom meetings, neighborhood clean-ups, and even for bike rides. The Wool& Rowena came through every time.

I had two opportunities to travel during this time – once to NYC for a fun weekend, and once to Texas for a sad event. The dress became my nightgown in Texas and gave me comfort.

Ease of Care: I aired out the dress every night – flipped it inside out and hung it over a bar. I sink-washed the dress six times and washed it in the washer once just to test durability. (I did use a lingerie bag) Day 100 the dress looked as fresh as on day 1.

Wool& offers several other travel dresses with pockets, including french terry dresses like the Sierra, a sleeveless option that’s very popular with travelers, the Everett, a tunic length sweater dress, and the Willow, a 3/4 sleeve swing dress with a V-neck.

Merino wool dresses are also offered by Icebreaker and Smartwool. Both brands produce quality goods so I’d feel confident ordering one of these if you find a style that suits you!

Amazon carries merino wool clothing at a more affordable price. I haven’t tried any of these so can’t speak to the quality. Let me know if you recommend them!

Best for a Special Event While Traveling

Chico’s Travelers Collection – dresses

• Price: ~$100-109 USD
• Packability: wrinkle resistant
• Versatility: n/a
• Ease of Care: machine or sink wash
• Fabric: 96% acetate, 4% elastane. From website: Our Travelers Classic collection contains Eastman Naia™, a sustainable cellulose fiber derived from wood pulp.
• Comfort and Pleasure: stylish, and flattering. Fabric has a bit of stretch for extra comfort

These packable travel dresses would be perfect for date nights, a destination wedding or afternoon tea party . Chico’s designs these dresses for all but I think the dresses, with their simple lines and great style, appeal especially to mature women. I like the mid-length pencil skirt look, but Chico’s also has cocktail dresses.

I don’t own any of these gorgeous dresses above because I have another Chico’s dress, bought 10 years ago, that still looks great! It’s a floral print and always in my luggage if I want to add a beautiful dress to my bag!

Our Favorite Convertible Travel Dresses

Origami by Diane Kroe

• Price: $150 CAD
• Packability: wrinkle resistant, but at 14.3 oz, not particularly lightweight
• Versatility: converts to multiple new looks – dress, halter top, batwing top, skirt
• Ease of Care: Dress is made from 92% poly and 8% spandex, so not a natural fabric, but it dries quickly and resists wrinkles.
• Quality: well made in Canada
• Comfort and Pleasure: stylish and extremely comfortable!

I’ve been a customer of Diane Kroe Designs for many years. I love the versatility of the collection. The Origami is one of my favorites. Usually I wear it as a top with skinny jeans or white pants, but I love having the option to wear it as a dress when traveling. This piece is great for older women travelers. The shape and drape are stylish and forgiving.

The main thing about convertible clothing is the style options while traveling. I’ve packed this dress specifically for special events but reached for it later in the trip as a light layer.

Best Dress for Sun Protection

Coolibar (Malta) Travel Shirt Dress –

Note: After first posting about this travel dress, the company kindly sent me one for review.

Price: $115 USD

• Versatility: wear it as a shirt dress, an opened jacket, or tie the ends to make a cute button-down shirt.
• Ease of Care: fabric is quick dry. Machine or hand wash in cold water,
• Fabric: from the website: Antimicrobial fabric that is lightweight, breathable and soft to the touch. With 4-way stretch it is naturally wrinkle resistant and moisture wicking.
• Comfort and Pleasure: a travel (and home!) classic style

What makes this a great choice? The Coolibar brand produces stylish clothing with sun protection – great for us older women! This shirt is rated UPF 50 and is breathable making it a great option for days of intense sun. The collar and cuffs can be adjusted to give maximum sun coverage.

Another great feature of the Malta is the hidden, zipped side pockets!

I was gifted the black version of the this dress. It is remarkably lightweight and cool. I wore it to a recent event – belted over leggings – and received lots of compliments!

Visit the Coolibar website for other dress styles for travel and sun protection .

Best of the rest: more suggestions for travel dresses

Athleta is one of my favorite brands for comfortable travel-friendly pants. I haven’t had the chance to try any of their dresses, but they offer several cute – short and sporty – dresses. You’ll find similar dresses at TitleNine.

For hard-working dresses suitable to many overseas trips check out Travelsmith, Magellan Travel Catalog, Lands End, L.L. Bean, and Orvis. These classic travel clothing companies will often have something that fits our easy-care, lightweight, wrinkle-free standards.

An option often offered in travel dresses is a reversible dress – pattern on one side and solid on the other. This might work for you, but I donated mine as it was too heavy. Some reversible dresses, like mine, are actually a two layer dress (a black sheath inside a patterned sheath). Thus the dress is heavier than a single layer dress.

A variant of the reversible dress that I do like is a dress with two necklines. Basically you can wear the dress back or front depending on the neckline you want. I love my Wool& Summer midi dress which has a high neckline and a v-neck neckline. This actually does give versatility to my travel wardrobe!

Have I convinced you to pack a dress for your travel?

Some last thoughts. The right dress can be endlessly useful during your travels. Wear it to a nice dinner? of course! But you can also wear it when you’re on a bus tour, for a hike in the mountains, and even sometimes as a workout tunic over exercise tights. (believe me. I’ve done it several times!)

Look in your closet first to see if there’s a dress that’ll be versatile, stylish, and easy care for your trip. If you need to buy a new dress find one that you can see wearing several times on your travels. Take some time before you leave to try the dress on, and play with accessories. That’s the best time to see if the dress deserves a place in your travel capsule wardrobe .

What do you think? Will a dress fit into your travel wardrobe?

Tip: for maximum comfort (and modesty) consider wearing leggings or bike shorts under your dress. I love my merino wool shorts by Wool& , Frankie Bike Shorts and Summit Shorts- both keep me fresh and comfortable and have pockets!

Amy Tull and Team

• Amy Tull and Team https://travelingtulls.com/author/gramma2chance/ Into the Wild: Planning Multigenerational Trips in National Parks
• Amy Tull and Team https://travelingtulls.com/author/gramma2chance/ Nature and Birding in Costa Rica: a World of Strange & Wonderful Beauty
• Amy Tull and Team https://travelingtulls.com/author/gramma2chance/ How to Survive a Long Flight: be comfortable even in Economy Seats (2024)
• Amy Tull and Team https://travelingtulls.com/author/gramma2chance/ Best Time to Travel to Machu Picchu, Peru: a traveler’s guide (2024)

Amy, a writer on responsible bucket list travel, is your reliable source for insightful travel advice. With a career background in libraries, and a degree in biology and mathematics, Amy's approach to travel is rooted in meticulous research and planning, and her commitment to eco-conscious adventures.

Amy’s dedication to sustainable travel practices, including efficient packing techniques, ensures that every adventure leaves a positive impact on both the environment and the traveler's well-being. Trust Amy to guide you towards meaningful and eco-friendly travel, making the most of your retirement years.

A lifelong New England resident, Amy is also the source for insider tips on travel in the Northeastern U.S.

• Amy Tull https://travelingtulls.com/author/amy-travelingtulls/ 101 Unique Things to Do in Boston: an insider guide to hidden gems
• Amy Tull https://travelingtulls.com/author/amy-travelingtulls/ 25 Tips to Conquer Travel Anxiety: How to Make Travel Easier (and almost stress-free!)
• Amy Tull https://travelingtulls.com/author/amy-travelingtulls/ Easy Elegance: 3 Capsule Wardrobe Templates for Travel Planning
• Amy Tull https://travelingtulls.com/author/amy-travelingtulls/ Navigating the Amazon and Caribbean with Viking: An Honest Review (2024)

Share this:

10 thoughts on “ The best lightweight, easy-care women’s travel dresses ”

I’m about to embark on the Wool& 100 day challenge, and this post has me excited about all the possibilities! I’ve been interested in capsule wardrobes for a while. This might be my moment!

Oh my goodness! All the yesses!!!! I’ve done the challenge (in a Ro!) as well and am a full on convert to not only a merino wool fan but it has affirmed my love, desire, and need for a capsule wardrobe for every day and more.

I am finally getting to travel again soon and my Wool& dresses are all I’m planning on taking for core outfit pieces!

So, I have to ask, is the merino wool cool to wear? I am at the age where I am wearing t-shirts when everyone else is bundled up!

Yes! At least that’s my experience. The dress I purchased was long sleeved, and would not be ideal for a woman who’s usually hot. I have since purchased a sleeveless and short sleeved dress. Both wonderful on hot days.

Well I’ll definitely be reconsidering packing dresses in the future. Thanks!

🙂 Looking forward to seeing pictures of you in those dresses!

I’ve just purchased a SmartWool sleeveless dress for a trip to Italy, but don’t know about shoes. Was planning to take only athletic shoes for comfort but they don’t look good with the dress. Suggestions?

Loved your article and Wool&. What tool did you use to gather up the Rowena (one had the Rowena as a top, it looks as if it is plastic and round). Thanks for this article. I was looking for ways to elevate the styling of the dress.

Hi Joy, I use a scarf ring/loop I purchased from Amazon. I’m sure you can find one at a fabric store too!

Another trick you can use with either the scarf loop, or a smaller circular thing like a coin, is to place the loop either under or over the dress and gather the fabric around it with an elastic. It makes either a cute pucker or a button.

• Pingback: The Best of Summer in Maine: 50 Things to Do Outside in Maine

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Discover more from traveling tulls.

Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.

Type your email…

Continue reading

Celebrity Blog

• Choosing a Cruise
• Planning / Booking A Cruise
• Preparing For Your Cruise
• Special Occasions
• What To Expect On A Cruise
• Australia, New Zealand & the Pacific
• Central America
• East Coast & Bermuda
• Mexican Riviera
• South America & Antarctica
• Destinations

What to Wear on a Cruise: The Ultimate Guide

Last updated: November 7th, 2023

• Find a Cruise

If you’re having trouble figuring out what to wear on a cruise, don’t worry, we’re here to help. Packing a suitcase for your upcoming vacation onboard shouldn’t be difficult—in fact, it’s all part of the fun.

The key is to know exactly what to expect onboard and to familiarize yourself with Celebrity Cruises’ “Relaxed Luxury”. Here are some tips that will help you decide what to wear on a cruise to get ready for smooth, stylish sailing.

What clothes should you wear on a cruise?

What to wear on a cruise depends on where you’re sailing. While many of our cruises sail to warm beach destinations such as The Bahamas and the Caribbean , we do offer cooler weather cruises to places like Alaska and the Mediterranean during shoulder season that require warmer clothes like jackets and waterproof wear.

If you’re traveling to a warm and sunny destination, here are some things you should wear on your cruise:

While onboard, you’ll be spending a lot of your time in the pool or lounging nearby on the sun deck. You’ll also be sporting swimwear at many of the ports you visit  during your trip. Therefore, it’s a good idea to pack a handful of swimsuits in your bag. Aim to bring at least three if you’re going on a seven-day cruise.

Swim coverups

While it’s perfectly acceptable to stay in your swimsuit while lounging beside the pool, you’ll need a cover-up to walk from your stateroom to the pool, and vice-versa. Keep in mind, depending on where your stateroom or suite is located, you may go through other common areas of the ship (in addition to the elevators) on your way to the pool. Make sure your swim cover-up is something you will feel comfortable in while walking around others.

Read: What to Pack for a Mediterranean Cruise

Sweater or fleece

Even if you’re taking a cruise around the Caribbean , it’s smart to take a light sweater or fleece to wear at night when the temperature tends to cool down. After all, you won’t want to get chilly while enjoying the starry sky from your stateroom veranda or on one of the ship’s decks.

Scarf or pashmina

This is an easy clothing item you can drape over your shoulders to dress up an outfit, or to warm you up if you’re outside and there is a chill in the air. You may also be required to cover your head and shoulders if entering a mosque, or bare arms if visiting a church, so pack something that enables you to respect the local culture.

Bring some fun pieces to accessorize your outfit. You may also want to buy some new items while shopping in the ship’s boutiques, so remember to leave a little extra room in your suitcase just in case.

Sunglasses and sun hats

Aside from lathering up on the SPF, protect yourself from all that sunshine by bringing a sun visor, baseball cap, or wide-brimmed straw hat on your cruise—ideally, one that won’t blow away in a sea breeze. You should also bring at least one pair of sunglasses on board.

Read: What to Pack for a Caribbean Cruise

Even if you typically use your phone as a clock, bringing a watch on board will help you keep a more accurate eye on the time throughout the day. You’ll want to get to all of the ship’s daily activities on time, and a watch can be extra helpful during your port stops to make sure you get back to the ship on time before it departs.

Casual, comfortable attire

T-shirts, tank tops, shorts, sundresses, and skirts are all perfectly fine clothes to wear on a cruise ship to have lunch in the Oceanview Cafe and other restaurants with a casual dress code. You can also dine in casual pool clothes at the snack bar located next to the pool deck.

Dinner or “smart casual” attire

If you’re having dinner in the main restaurant or any meal at one of the specialty restaurants , you’ll follow a “smart casual” dress code on most nights. This means long pants, jeans, a dress or skirt, a stylish top, or a button-down.

We want our guests to feel comfortable, so Celebrity Cruises’ dress code for smart casual is fairly flexible, though there are some restrictions. T-shirts, swimsuits, robes, bare feet, tank tops, baseball caps, and pool wear are not allowed in the main restaurant or specialty restaurants at any time. In addition, shorts and flip-flops are not permitted during the evening hours.

The smart casual dress code works for all areas of the ship in the evening, including in bars and lounges and during shows and events at the ship’s theater.

If you’re headed for Alaska or northern Europe, or the Mediterranean in the cooler months, think about packing these items:

Wicking tops, lightweight fleeces, and even pants that zip off into shorts are all a good idea for Alaska, especially if you’re out hiking.

Waterproofs

Some of the world’s most beautiful scenery gets that lush shade of green for a reason; the occasional rain shower. Bring a waterproof that folds down small, and a waterproof cover for your camera.

Read: Expert Cruise Packing Tips

What kind of shoes should you wear on a cruise?

Footwear should not be an afterthought when packing your suitcase for a cruise. While you might have the urge to throw in a pair of flip flops and call it a day, there are a few other essential shoes you’ll need to bring along on your trip.

Flip flops, sandals, or waterproof slides

These shoes will take you back and forth from your stateroom to the pool and vice versa. They also come in handy if you choose to visit the onboard spa . Lightweight water shoes are great for some ports in the Mediterranean, where beaches tend to be pebbly.

Sneakers or comfortable walking shoes

If you’re planning on doing a lot of walking around the ship during days at sea, it’s a good idea to pack a pair of sneakers or other comfortable walking shoes. Sneakers will also be useful if you try out a fitness class or use the gym equipment in the ship’s state-of-the-art fitness center.

If you’re headed somewhere like Norway or Alaska where hiking is one of the most popular activities, it’s worth packing a good pair of walking boots.

Shoes or sandals for dinner

Since flip flops are not allowed in the evening, make sure to bring comfortable shoes or sandals to wear during dinner in the main room.

Do you have to dress up on a cruise?

While of course you’re welcome to stay in your swimsuit almost all day long on a cruise, there are certain occasions when Celebrity Cruises dress code requests otherwise.

If you’re wondering what to wear on a cruise during dinner in the main dining room, meals at specialty restaurants, or shows in the theater, the Celebrity Cruises dress code for these occasions is usually “smart casual”. This means a dress or skirt, stylish pants, smart jeans, a stylish top or button-down. We’d prefer that shorts, tank tops and flip flops were kept for the pool.

What do you wear on a dressier night on a cruise?

Our more formal nights are called “Evening Chic” nights because they’re all about guests looking their absolute best—and loving it. These are the nights when you want to dress up in your most fashion-forward and stylish clothes, while also being elegant and sophisticated.

The Celebrity Cruises dress code for Evening Chic nights is cocktail dresses, skirts, pants, or designer jeans with an elegant top, or dress shirt, button-down shirt, or sweater, and an optional blazer. There’s no need to wear a tie unless you want to.

Our Evening Chic dress code leaves a lot of room for you to show off your personal style, although we’d ask you to leave your ripped jeans or favorite college sweatshirt in your stateroom. You can wear anything from designer denim paired with a blazer to a cocktail dress with a killer set of heels.

If you were looking forward to wearing a tuxedo or formal gown on Evening Chic nights, you can absolutely do that as well. There is no such thing as being overdressed on Evening Chic nights.

All cruises that are seven nights or longer will feature two Evening Chic nights. Shorter cruises feature one Evening Chic night. On all other nights of the cruise, guests are asked to wear smart casual attire.

If for whatever reason you choose to skip Evening Chic nights, you can always dine in one of the specialty restaurants (in smart casual attire) or at the snack bar located next to the pool deck.

What do you wear on cruises during the day?

On Celebrity Cruises, we want you to feel as comfortable as possible while onboard. During the day, we encourage you to wear casual attire such as t-shirts, tank tops, shorts, sundresses, and skirts.

If you’re spending the day at the pool, you can also have lunch or dine in casual pool clothes at the Mast Grill located next to the pool deck.

Just remember that while walking from your stateroom to the pool and vice versa, you’ll need to wear a swim cover up.

You’ll also be required to wear appropriate clothing in the Fitness Center; suitable shoes for the treadmills and exercise bikes, for example, just as you would in the gym at home.

If you plan to use the spa, which we would encourage, don’t worry about bringing a robe; these are provided for you.

Now that you know how effortless and stress-free it is to choose what to wear on a cruise, book your cruise and start planning out your perfect cruise vacation outfits. Browse itineraries on our website and book your next luxury getaway with Celebrity Cruises.

Related Itineraries

Key West & Bahamas

• 3 nights ON CELEBRITY REFLECTION
• DEPARTING FROM FORT LAUDERDALE, FLORIDA
• Starting from $479 USD
• 4 nights ON CELEBRITY REFLECTION
• Starting from $631 USD

Key West & Perfect Day

• Starting from $690 USD
• Starting from $778 USD

Bahamas & Perfect Day

• Starting from $1215 USD

Western Caribbean & Perfect Day

• 6 nights ON CELEBRITY BEYOND
• Starting from $1389 USD

Related Articles

How to Choose a Cruise Drink Package

The Complete Guide to Taking a Cruise With a Toddler

19 Things Not to Do on a Cruise

12 Wildlife Photography Tips for Beginners

Cruises for Seniors With Disabilities: Everything You Need to Know

Accessible Travel Guide

15 Ways to Stay Fit On a Cruise

Exciting Cruise Nightlife Options on Celebrity

How to Make Your Cruise Even More Fun

The Essential Guide to Cruising with Kids

Overnight Cruises: Where to Go, What to See

What Is a Transatlantic Cruise?

Free Vacation Planning Services

CALL US 888-751-7804

Sign Up for Special Offers

I would like to receive electronic Promotional messages from Celebrity Cruises Inc. You can unsubscribe at anytime. Please view our Privacy Policy .

• First Name *
• Last Name *
• Email Address *
• Country * Country Afghanistan Albania Algeria American Samoa Andorra Angola Antigua and Barbuda Argentina Armenia Australia Austria Azerbaijan Bahamas Bahrain Bangladesh Barbados Belarus Belgium Belize Benin Bermuda Bhutan Bolivia Bosnia and Herzegovina Botswana Brazil Brunei Bulgaria Burkina Faso Burundi Cambodia Cameroon Canada Cape Verde Cayman Islands Central African Republic Chad Chile China Colombia Comoros Congo, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Republic of the Costa Rica Côte d'Ivoire Croatia Cuba Curaçao Cyprus Czech Republic Denmark Djibouti Dominica Dominican Republic East Timor Ecuador Egypt El Salvador Equatorial Guinea Eritrea Estonia Ethiopia Faroe Islands Fiji Finland France French Polynesia Gabon Gambia Georgia Germany Ghana Greece Greenland Grenada Guam Guatemala Guinea Guinea-Bissau Guyana Haiti Honduras Hong Kong Hungary Iceland India Indonesia Iran Iraq Ireland Israel Italy Jamaica Japan Jordan Kazakhstan Kenya Kiribati North Korea South Korea Kosovo Kuwait Kyrgyzstan Laos Latvia Lebanon Lesotho Liberia Libya Liechtenstein Lithuania Luxembourg Macedonia Madagascar Malawi Malaysia Maldives Mali Malta Marshall Islands Mauritania Mauritius Mexico Micronesia Moldova Monaco Mongolia Montenegro Morocco Mozambique Myanmar Namibia Nauru Nepal Netherlands New Zealand Nicaragua Niger Nigeria Northern Mariana Islands Norway Oman Pakistan Palau Palestine, State of Panama Papua New Guinea Paraguay Peru Philippines Poland Portugal Puerto Rico Qatar Romania Russia Rwanda Saint Kitts and Nevis Saint Lucia Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Samoa San Marino Sao Tome and Principe Saudi Arabia Senegal Serbia Seychelles Sierra Leone Singapore Sint Maarten Slovakia Slovenia Solomon Islands Somalia South Africa Spain Sri Lanka Sudan Sudan, South Suriname Swaziland Sweden Switzerland Syria Taiwan Tajikistan Tanzania Thailand Togo Tonga Trinidad and Tobago Tunisia Turkey Turkmenistan Tuvalu Uganda Ukraine United Arab Emirates United Kingdom United States Uruguay Uzbekistan Vanuatu Vatican City Venezuela Vietnam Virgin Islands, British Virgin Islands, U.S. Yemen Zambia Zimbabwe

STAY IN THE KNOW

Thank you for subscribing.

See you on board soon.

Get Daily Travel Tips & Deals!

By proceeding, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use .

30 Ultra-Packable Travel Dresses for Summer

Megan Johnson

Megan is a Senior Editor, SEO for SmarterTravel Media.

Megan started with SmarterTravel Media’s Airfarewatchdog way back in 2008, moved over to FamilyVacationCritic, and finally SmarterTravel in 2021. Originally from Massachusetts, she has lived in Nova Scotia, London, and New York City. She has spent nearly every summer (or at least part of it) on Prince Edward Island. She lives in Connecticut with her husband, two young children, and their dog, Indiana Bones (Indy).

The Handy Item I Always Pack: Kindle

Ultimate Bucket List Experience: Some sort of wellness retreat somewhere exotic.

Travel Motto: Be flexible

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat: Window, if you prefer a middle seat, please message me so I can write an article about you.

Travel Smarter! Sign up for our free newsletter.

Dresses: They’re easy to pack, they’re a fashion no-brainer, and they can go from casual to fancy even more easily than pants. That’s why they’re my absolute favorite type of clothing for travel. But you have to pack the right dresses for summer travel—versatile, wrinkle-free, and odor-resistant pieces that rock a travel wardrobe. Here are the best travel dresses for everyone.

Travel Sundresses

Stay cool with these sleeveless travel dresses for summer.

Jack Wolfskin Sommerwald Dress

Be prepared for everything from an impromptu beach day to an outdoor dinner on a hot night with Jack Wolfskin’s Sommerwald Dress . This loose-fitting but not shapeless dress is made from a soft and slightly stretchy fabric that won’t cling but allows for plenty of movement (the integrated belt helps give a custom fit). Made from a quick-drying fabric, this dress is perfect for light packers who handwash their outfits in the hotel room sink. Best of all, the Sommerwald Dress has two roomy pockets.

prAna Ayla Dress

PrAna has a great reputation for sustainable threads that embody comfort and style in your day-to-day life. Right now we’re loving this sundress , which can be a staple on both a summer day at home or a sunny day abroad. With functional pockets and a fabric that can move with you, this comfortable dress is a must-buy.

Everlane The Smock Dress

Everlane’s weekend the smock dress is the ultimate breezy vacation dress. The smocked top with slight stretch and extra thick straps make for ultimate comfort. Pair with some lightweight sandals for a day of sightseeing or dress it up with some heels and accessories for a mid-morning brunch look.

The Cheapest Caribbean Islands

Elan Cover-Up Slipdress

Ideal for a day on the beach, this swingy dress pulls on and off with ease. The light material adds a breezy comfort to a steamy day and keeps you covered from the boardwalk to the oceanfront.

Zella Live in Rib Dress

Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, Zella’s Live in Rib dress is built to be the easiest dress you’ll ever take on the road. With no buttons, zippers, or fasteners, this baby effortlessly slips on like your favorite comfy tee. 

Amazon Essentials Tank Swing Dress

Amazon has a slew of awesome summer travel dresses for all kinds of women. This sleeveless number is a casual, everyday jersey dress that works well for layering, and it’s so comfortable that it would make for a great plane outfit even on a long flight.

The 8 Best Sunglasses for Travel

VIISHOW Summer Swing Dress

VIISHOW’s summer swing dress is made from a very cool rayon/spandex knit fabric that’s colorful and easy. Wear this, and you can easily go from the plane to dinner without changing.

Match Point Dress

Be ready for adventure with this lightweight Venture Out Dress from Athleta, which beats out all other dresses for function and fashion. Made for running and hiking, with built-in shorts, this is the perfect option for an active vacation. It is also made from recycled nylon, is moisture-wicking, and has UPF 50+ protection.

Travel Maxi Dresses

Maxi dresses’ longer length protects you from the sun and offers an elegant look, without making you overheat.

REVOLVE Rain Maxi Dress

You won’t believe how unbelievably breezy and cool the Rain Maxi Dress is until you try it on. Made with a trendy thigh-high front slit and an easy pullover design, you can throw this on and be at the beach in seconds.

The 13 Best Vacation Rental Booking Sites

Loveappella Maxi Dress

This maxi dress is so perfect for travel that you’ll want to buy one in each of the five colors that it comes in. The jersey fabric is cool, lightweight, easy to pack—and extremely comfortable.

Hard Tail Easy Paloma Dress

Crafted with a blend of cotton and spandex and featuring above-the-knee slits on either side, this sleeveless maxi is a comfortable alternative to the traditional little black dress. Shaping numerous body types in the most flattering way possible, this one’s hard to resist.

Short-Sleeve Travel Dresses

These short-sleeve travel dresses for summer can go from casual to elegant with the right shoes and accessories.

Pact The Mix Tee Dress

The softness of a T-shirt mixed with the convenience of a sundress come together to create this cute but casual T-shirt dress from pact. Though it’s adorable worn as is, the addition of your coziest cardigan completes this look for your next plane ride.

The 10 Most Comfortable Travel Shoes for 2023

Carve Designs Nellie Linen Dress

Carve Designs Nellie Linen Dress is the perfect multifunctional outfit to pack for vacation. Paired with your favorite sandals , this dress is ideal for a a casual day exploring your destination. Pair it with something a little more upscale and you’re ready to head out for the night. 

JollieLovin Women’s T-Shirt Dress

JollieLovin Women’s t-shirt dress has an easy-to-wear, casual silhouette that works with sneakers or sandals. Wear it as is or cinch it with a fashionable tie or belt to dress it up.

eShakti Cotton Knit Midi Wrap Dress

Don’t you hate it when you find a dress off the rack that’s great—except it fits weird? That will never be the case at online retailer eShakti , where you can customize clothing to your specifications. Best of all, it’s shockingly cheap—check out the Cotton Knit Midi Wrap Dress , which is perfect for travel thanks to its cotton/spandex jersey knit fabric.

The Essential Beach Packing List

Modest Travel Dresses

These modest travel dresses for summer are ideal for visiting destinations where you want to be covered up, but still cool.

Karen Kane V-Back A-Line Maxi Dress

If you’re looking for a modest staple piece, this dress is for you. Truly bringing it back to basics with a soft jersey material and t-shirt fit, you can dress it up or down according to the occasion. For chillier evenings or further coverage, pair with a cozy cardigan or shawl .

Floral Print Puff Sleeve Dress

A quintessential midi with elbow-length sleeves is a classic that will never go out of style. Choosing to keep it modest without the extra lengthy bulkiness is a true plus—you will stay cool all day and won’t have to worry about making much room in your carry-on.

Caslon Long Sleeve Midi Shirtdress

This long-sleeve option is the epitome of a modest summer dress. The olive green color is vibrant enough for daytime but easily transitions to a classy night look.

11 Travel Clothes That Feel Like Pajamas (But Look First Class)

Grecerelle Long Sleeve Maxi Dress

This maxi dress has long sleeves, a modest neckline, and pockets—what more do you need? It’s also extremely affordable, so go ahead and get one in every color and print available.

Plus-Size Travel Dresses

These travel dresses are specifically designed for plus sizes.

Karen Kane Floral Print Chloe Dress

Bring in the sunshine with this floral dress from Karen Kane. The light polyester/elastane blend and and sleeveless silhouette will keep you cool in warmer weather and allow for an easy transition to evening wear.

Women’s Short Sleeve A-Line Dress – Knox Rose™

The light, breezy fabric and fluttery sleeves and hemline of this dress make it an instant summer staple. It comes in magenta, navy or an orange floral, and, because you can dress it up and down, this one can be worn at any time of the day.

10 Secret Alternatives to Crowded Summer Destinations

HBEYYTO Women’s Plus Size Maxi Dress

For those days when all you want is to throw on a cozy t-shirt but still want to feel put together, this is the dress to grab. It’s made from 95% rayon, comes in 18 colors and patterns, and —for the best part—it has pockets.

Floral Tiered Babydoll Minidress

It doesn’t get more casual than this minidress and a well-worn pair of Converse . Join the two with a denim jacket and you’ll be ready to face the day in no time.

Amazon Essentials Cap Sleeve Wrap Dress

Whether you’re heading out on a business trip or a beach vacation, you’ll want to pack this dress by Amazon Essentials . This classic style pairs cap sleeves with a tulip hem and wrap style for a polished look.

The 7 Best Travel-Sized Perfumes

Floerns Women’s Boho Floral Print Off Shoulder Dress

This flowy off-the-shoulder dress shows off your shoulders and legs but still leaves a little mystery. It comes in 23 different colors and patterns and is made from a stretchy rayon, so you can stay comfortable while sightseeing and still show off your fashion sense.

Rompers and Jumpsuits for Travel

It seems rompers and jumpsuits are becoming more and more popular with each season, and for good reason. These super comfortable and stylish ones are perfect to throw in your suitcase. 

Spanx AirEssentials Short Sleeve Romper

Stay comfortable and stylish in this light-as-air romper from Spanx. Easily dressed up with a cute sandal, it is super versatile, and with four way stretch, you will love wearing it all day long. Available in regular and plus sizes. 

Happy Sailed Women’s Jumpsuit

Get your wallet ready, because you will want this jumpsuit in all the available 41 colors and patterns it comes in. Flowy, breezy and easy to pull on, this may become your newest wardrobe staple. 

18 Things You Should Always Wear on a Plane

Free People Alice One Piece

You’ll stay cool in this free-flowing jumpsuit from Free People. Available in six colors, it can be dressed up with a dressy, strappy sandal , or add a sweater or button down to take it from the daytime heat into cooler nights. 

City Chic First Date Stripe Plus Sized Romper 

This romper from City Chic   is one of those pieces that whenever you wear it, you will proudly announce that it is actually a romper, not a dress. Super chic, with ruffles and a subtle stripe, it’s perfect for any occasion. 

Flovey Harem Jumpsuit 

Stay comfortable and stylish in this harem style jumpsuit from Flovey. Available in ten fun patterns, you will make a statement and stand out from the crowd when you wear this on your next vacation.

All of the products featured in this story were hand-selected by our travel editors. Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them.

You Might Also Like:

We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

Top Fares From

Don't see a fare you like? View all flight deals from your city.

Today's top travel deals.

Brought to you by ShermansTravel

9-Nt Dublin, Cork, Killarney & Galway...

Railbookers

Luxe, 7-Night Caribbean & Mexico Cruise...

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Ohio: Daily Car Rentals from Cincinnati

Trending on SmarterTravel

1 (855)-274-2274

Use our trip planner

phone number

PRIVATE TRAVEL

East Africa

North africa, southern africa.

South Africa

Through its extraordinary wildlife safaris, environmental majesty and ancient traditions, Africa is an epic storybook adventure. Experience unparalleled luxury via rainforest, coastline, dessert and mountain.

Southeast Asia

Intoxicatingly beautiful and rooted in custom, Asia reveals a heightened mysticism and generosity of spirit throughout each celebrated region. Discover centuries of culture and engaging hospitality with every step.

Cayman Islands

Dominican Republic

Puerto Rico

Saint Barthelemy

Turks & Caicos

Choose from an ever-increasing portfolio of luxury resorts and private islands along the azure waters of the Caribbean. Marine adventure, culinary perfection and complete seclusion all have a spot on the day’s agenda.

Central America

Soothing vistas and diverse eco-adventure await in Central America. See the sun rise over the rim of a volcano, roam the ruins of the Mayans, ride through nature conservatories and paddle through jungle mangroves.

Czech Republic

Mediterranean

Netherlands

Switzerland

United Kingdom

A multitude of environs– coast, country and city – make for a feast of diversity in Europe. The unique histories, gastronomic extravagance and cultural riches bring a deluxe profusion of Old World elegance.

United Arab Emirates

Middle East

Ancient cultures and modern pleasures coalesce in the fascinating nations of the eastern Mediterranean and those ringing the Persian Gulf. Encounter pockets of immense historical significance, refined opulence and breathtaking beauty.

North America

For enjoying a stateside sojourn, drinking in Canada’s natural wonders or exploring the magnitude of Mexico, this continent offers spectacular diversion. Find flavours to arouse every taste bud and an array of cultures to match.

French Polynesia

New Zealand

South Pacific

A world of exotic wonder awaits in Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific islands. Drift through romantic nights and endless days of natural splendour, aquatic adventure, decadent resorts and epicurean delights.

Galapagos Islands

South America

From the beaches of northern Brazil to the southern tracts of Patagonia, this continent is the sum of a thousand parts. Experience ancient cities and heritage haciendas, volcanic hot springs and vibrant café cultures.

Explore a world of luxury

View all destinations

World Cruises

Expedition Cruises

River Cruises

Honeymoon Cruises

Family Cruises

Solo Cruises

Bridge Cruises

Alaskan Cruises

Antarctica Cruises

Asia Cruises

Bahamas Cruises

Caribbean Cruises

Danube River Cruises

European Cruises

Galapagos Cruises

Greece Cruises

Hawaiian Cruises

Iceland Cruises

Mediterranean Cruises

Mekong River Cruises

New Zealand Cruises

River Nile Cruises

South Pacific Cruises

World Cruise

Cruise Destinations

Whether you dream of island-hopping your way down Caribbean island chains, connecting the ocean waters with a Panama Canal cruise, or sailing into an exotic Mediterranean port at cocktail hour, our expert Travel Designers can curate the luxury cruise vacation of a lifetime.

Explore a world of luxury cruising

Search all cruise types

What to Expect on a Safari

Best Time for a Safari

Travel With a Purpose

Safari Blog

Press & Media

Testimonials

Safari Destinations

What can you expect from a Tully Luxury Travel safari? In a word: magic. You will witness extraordinary wildlife amid untamed beauty and unparalleled luxury. You will take a thousand pictures – and make a thousand more memories.

Luxury Safaris

View all luxury safaris

Private Island Resorts

Beach Vacations

Family Vacations

Luxury African Safaris

Luxury Cruises

Luxury Train Travel

Group Travel

Adventure Travel

Wellness Travel

Wine Travel

Food & Gourmet Travel

Vacation Types

View all vacation types

Tully Videos

Bespoke Magazines

The Art of Whispered Luxury with Barbara Muckermann

The Ocean State of Mind with Chris Austin

Exploring the Wilderness with Steve Smotrys

Luxury Defined by You: Designing the Most Exclusive Travel Experiences in the World

Luxury travel’s most inspiring stories told by its most celebrated icons. From wildlife experts, fashion designers and artists, to historians, chefs and more, this inspiring podcast series is designed to show you the world’s most exclusive travel experiences through the eyes of the people that know them best.

Explore our media

View all media

Why Travel With Us?

Conservation & Giving Back

River Cruise

Small Group

View all Preferred Partners

Our Partners

What is the Tully Difference? The most satisfying travel experiences are the ones that captivate and transform you as a person and that deepen your connection to the world around you. It is that belief that fuels our desire to create rewarding travel experiences for people who are passionate about discovering the essence and heart of a destination.

The Tully Difference

Home Trends Inspiration Blogs What To Wear On A Cruise A Guide To Cruise Dress Code

What to Wear on a Cruise? A Guide to Cruise Dress Code

By Tully Luxury Travel | 01-29-2024 |

Share this with

T here’s usually a little spring in your step as embarkation day approaches and the suitcases come out for your luxury cruise. The anticipation of the journey, the people you’ll meet or reconnect with, the incredible food that awaits – now, what are you going to wear? In a nutshell, how to dress on a cruise boils down to just two phrases – “mix and match” and “relaxed elegance.” The trick is in how to interpret them. Packing a suitcase for luxury cruise vacations, from casual mornings to formal nights, requires an eye for simplicity. Here are the top tips for a stylish and comfortable cruise vacation.

During the Day

Because you are likely heading off-ship at some point during the day, most people wear classic, resort-style clothing in the daytime – the type of activewear you would see at the golf course. If the day is less sporty, women often wear casual sundresses, blouses, skirts and shorts. Sandals and stylish flat shoes are best. Scarves and hats add verve to daytime outfits. Men typically wear polo shirts or short-sleeved collared shirts and smart-casual khakis or shorts. Sandals, loafers and boat shoes complete the look. T-shirts are relegated to the gym, and you can leave tank tops at home. Everyone should pack swimwear for the pool and beach, with cover-ups for entering and leaving these areas. Sunglasses (your best) are de rigeur.

In the Evening

Nighttime is usually split into two groups – formal and informal. What to wear on a cruise formal night is pretty straightforward – evening gowns, cocktail dresses or elegant separates for women, and dark suits or tuxedos for men. Bring it down a step or two for informal nights, your best interpretation of “casual elegance” – stylish dresses or a dressy blouse and skirt/pant combo for ladies, and a dress shirt and pants for gentlemen. Don’t be afraid to inject your own personal style into these guidelines.

Stylish Yet Comfortable

It’s a good rule of thumb to have everything in your luggage going together in some way, sticking to one color palette. Simply, include a white shirt, black shirt, blue shirt, tan pants, black skirt and jeans. If you’re not going to wear something at least twice, leave it at home. Neutrals can be dressed up with jewellery, colorful scarves and amazing shoes. Keep shoes simple – one dressy, one casual, one sandal, one runner. And if your cruise is short, pare things down even more to just one jacket, one suit, one skirt, one pair of blue jeans, one pair of khakis – yet several swimsuits!

For Specialty Cruises

Naturally, the list for what to wear on Alaskan cruises, for example, is a bit different. If you’re going whale-watching, you will need down jackets, warm gloves and hats and waterproof boots of some kind. The key here is to pack as you would if you were going skiing, so whatever the outdoor adventure – particularly on expedition cruises – you’re warm and dry the whole time, hiking boots at the ready. Most expedition cruises supply guests with parkas and boots, so you don’t have to worry about the outer layer. For luxury world cruises or grand voyages that last 40 or 50 days or more, don’t feel you have to bring your entire wardrobe. Just be selective, packing things that match and that can all go in the wash. Try not to bring anything that requires dry cleaning if you can help it.

Dress for Success!

Keep in mind that different cruise lines may have different sartorial requirements, such as no shorts at the bar after 6 p.m., for example. As well, some dining venues on board may require formal attire only. So when packing for a cruise, it’s always better to be slightly overdressed than underdressed. And just like your best friend always says: When you dress like you own the place, you definitely will.

Tully Luxury Travel | Inquiry Form

Make an inquiry.

• 1 (855)-265-0890
• First name * The first name of the user.
• Last name * The last name of the user.
• Email * The email of the user
• Phone number * The phone number of the user
• How did you hear about us? * Please select Google Search E-newsletter Newspaper Condé Nast Traveller Architectural Digest Bespoke Experiences Magazine Social Media Referral Other A drop-down selector for the users to select how they heard about Tully Luxury Travel.
• Land Vacation
• Cruise Vacation
• Destination * Please select Argentina Auckland Austria Bahamas Barbados Belgium Belize Bhutan Blue Mountains Botswana Brazil Cairns Cambodia Canada Chile China Christchurch Colombia Costa Rica Czech Republic Denmark Ecuador England Ethiopia Egypt Far East Finland France Germany Greece Guatemala Hawks Bay Iceland India Indonesia Ireland Israel Italy Japan Kaihoura Kangaroo Island Kenya Laos Madagascar Maldives Malta Mauritius Melbourne Mexico Middle East Morocco Myanmar Namibia Nepal Netherlands Norway Peru Portugal Queenstown Russia Rwanda Scotland Seychellesa Singapore South Africa South Asia South East Asia Spain Sri Lanka St. Lucia Sweden Sydney Taiwan Tanzania Tasmania Thailand Turkey Turks and Caicos U.S.A Uluru Region United Arab Emerates Vietnam Whitsundays World Cruise Zambia Zimbabwe A drop-down selector for the users to select a destination.
• Travel dates MM slash DD slash YYYY The check-in date of the user.
• Check-out MM slash DD slash YYYY The check-out date of the user.
• Trip notes Any notes of the user.
• Privacy consent * I agree with the privacy statement *
• Subscription consent Tick if you would like to receive emails with travel inspiration, offers & exclusive event invites
• Comments This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Subscribe to our Newsletter

Inspiring travel ideas and advice from our travel designers delivered straight to your inbox.

And gain access to travel promotions exclusive to Tully Luxury Travel through our vast network of some of the largest service providers in the travel industry.

We hope to show you the Tully difference on your next journey.

Tully Luxury Travel | Newsletter Subscription

• First Name *
• Last Name *
• Country * Country United States Canada United Kingdom
• County / State *
• Name This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

By becoming an insider, you will have access to travel promotions exclusive to Tully Luxury Travel through its vast network of some of the largest service providers in the travel industry. We hope to show you the Tully difference on your next journey.

• Country Country of Residence Afghanistan Åland Islands Albania Algeria American Samoa Andorra Angola Anguilla Antarctica Antigua and Barbuda Argentina Armenia Aruba Australia Austria Azerbaijan Bahamas Bahrain Bangladesh Barbados Belarus Belgium Belize Benin Bermuda Bhutan Bolivia Bonaire, Sint Eustatius and Saba Bosnia and Herzegovina Botswana Bouvet Island Brazil British Indian Ocean Territory Brunei Darussalam Bulgaria Burkina Faso Burundi Cambodia Cameroon Canada Cape Verde Cayman Islands Central African Republic Chad Chile China Christmas Island Cocos Islands Colombia Comoros Congo, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Republic of the Cook Islands Costa Rica Côte d'Ivoire Croatia Cuba Curaçao Cyprus Czech Republic Denmark Djibouti Dominica Dominican Republic Ecuador Egypt El Salvador Equatorial Guinea Eritrea Estonia Eswatini (Swaziland) Ethiopia Falkland Islands Faroe Islands Fiji Finland France French Guiana French Polynesia French Southern Territories Gabon Gambia Georgia Germany Ghana Gibraltar Greece Greenland Grenada Guadeloupe Guam Guatemala Guernsey Guinea Guinea-Bissau Guyana Haiti Heard and McDonald Islands Holy See Honduras Hong Kong Hungary Iceland India Indonesia Iran Iraq Ireland Isle of Man Israel Italy Jamaica Japan Jersey Jordan Kazakhstan Kenya Kiribati Kuwait Kyrgyzstan Lao People's Democratic Republic Latvia Lebanon Lesotho Liberia Libya Liechtenstein Lithuania Luxembourg Macau Macedonia Madagascar Malawi Malaysia Maldives Mali Malta Marshall Islands Martinique Mauritania Mauritius Mayotte Mexico Micronesia Moldova Monaco Mongolia Montenegro Montserrat Morocco Mozambique Myanmar Namibia Nauru Nepal Netherlands New Caledonia New Zealand Nicaragua Niger Nigeria Niue Norfolk Island North Korea Northern Mariana Islands Norway Oman Pakistan Palau Palestine, State of Panama Papua New Guinea Paraguay Peru Philippines Pitcairn Poland Portugal Puerto Rico Qatar Réunion Romania Russia Rwanda Saint Barthélemy Saint Helena Saint Kitts and Nevis Saint Lucia Saint Martin Saint Pierre and Miquelon Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Samoa San Marino Sao Tome and Principe Saudi Arabia Senegal Serbia Seychelles Sierra Leone Singapore Sint Maarten Slovakia Slovenia Solomon Islands Somalia South Africa South Georgia South Korea South Sudan Spain Sri Lanka Sudan Suriname Svalbard and Jan Mayen Islands Sweden Switzerland Syria Taiwan Tajikistan Tanzania Thailand Timor-Leste Togo Tokelau Tonga Trinidad and Tobago Tunisia Turkey Turkmenistan Turks and Caicos Islands Tuvalu Uganda Ukraine United Arab Emirates United Kingdom United States Uruguay US Minor Outlying Islands Uzbekistan Vanuatu Venezuela Vietnam Virgin Islands, British Virgin Islands, U.S. Wallis and Futuna Western Sahara Yemen Zambia Zimbabwe
• State/Province

The kind of travel that sparks your interest.

• Bespoke Experience
• African Safari

• Port Overview
• Transportation to the Port
• Uber & Lyft to the Port
• Dropping Off at the Port
• Cruise Parking
• Cruise Hotels
• Hotels with Parking Deals
• Uber & Lyft to the Ports
• Things to Do
• Cozumel Taxi Rates
• Free Things to Do
• Restaurants Near the Cruise Port
• Hotels & Resorts With Day Passes
• Closest Beaches to the Cruise Port
• Tips For Visiting
• Shore Excursions
• Cruise Parking Discounts
• Hotels with Shuttles
• Which Airport Should I Use?
• Transportation to the Ports
• Dropping Off at the Ports
• Fort Lauderdale Airport to Miami
• Inexpensive Hotels
• Hotels near the Port
• Hotels With Shuttles
• Budget Hotels
• Carnival Tips
• Drink Packages
• Specialty Restaurants
• Faster to the Fun
• More Articles
• CocoCay Tips
• Norwegian Tips
• Great Stirrup Cay
• Harvest Caye
• How to Get the Best Cruise Deal
• Best Time to Book a Cruise
• Best Websites to Book a Cruise
• Cruises Under $300
• Cruises Under $500
• Spring Break Cruise Deals
• Summer Cruise Deals
• Alaskan Cruise Deals
• 107 Cruise Secrets & Tips
• Tips for First-Time Cruisers
• What to Pack for a Cruise
• What to Pack (Alaska)
• Packing Checklist
• Cruising with Kids
• Passports & Birth Certificates
• Bringing Alcohol
• Cruising with a Disability
• Duty-Free Shopping
• Cruise Travel Insurance
• Things to Do on a Cruise Ship
• What Not to Do on a Ship
• News & Articles

12 Affordable Dresses Perfect for a Cruise Formal Night

There might not be a single event on a cruise that can cause as much stress as formal night.

And all that stress comes from one simple question: What can I wear?

To be fair, it can be a tough question to answer. Over the years, formal night has decidedly become more casual. While it used to be just for formal evening gowns and tuxedos, these days almost anything except for shorts (and sometimes even those) will pass the dress code.

That said, we think you definitely should dress up for formal night. The night isn’t just about you — it’s for everyone headed to dinner in the ship’s dining room. Not everyone gets a special occasion to dress up. Being able to get dolled up and head to dinner with other glamorous-looking folks helps to set the atmosphere.

To learn more about what sort of dress is and isn’t allowed during formal night you can read our article here.

In the meantime, we’ve rounded up a dozen formal dresses — all of which would be perfect for cruise formal night. You can find all of these dresses on Amazon, which typically offers free returns/exchanges if something doesn’t fit just right.

Note: The links to Amazon used below are affiliate links. Should you make a purchase, we receive a small percentage of the sale at no extra cost to you.

Classic Slimming Black Cocktail Dress

Turn heads with this slimming cocktail dress that’s a staple of any wardrobe. Just $23 on Amazon and comes in black, navy, and wine.

Aqua Gown with Peacock Design

Formal with a bit of flair, this beautiful dress comes in seven different colors. Prices vary, but this one costs just $50 .

Classic Sleeved Long Gown

Elegant, yet simple, this dress offers full coverage but with a low-cut back. This $60 dress comes in eight different colors , although we think grey is the most “classy” look.

Strapless Coral Formal Dress

This fun dress just screams “cruise” while also being perfect for formal night. There are a variety of colors, but none as perfect as this coral one for only $30 .

Hip-Hugging Royal Blue Gown

Have curves you want to show off? This is your dress. It’s classy and perfect as formal wear, but also a little sexy… for after dinner. Best of all, it’s only $24 .

Retro-Style Pleated Dress

Looking for a dress that’s a bit different than the long-flowing gown? How about this retro style that comes just to the knee. It’s $35 and has several different colors available .

Sleeveless Dress with Sheer Bottom

Cocktail Dress with Blue/Black Lace Design

This formal dress is totally unlike the gowns shown above and works well for both formal night and day-to-day work back home. Shows off your shape and has a cool design for just $27 .

Above-the-Knee Formal Cocktail Dress

If you’re someone with a petite figure and don’t want to be swallowed up in a large gown, this is the perfect dress. Comes in a ton of different colors, but is the most expensive dress on the list at $120 .

Multi-Color Flowing Evening Gown

Retro-Inspired Sleeved Dress

Strapless Above-the-Knee Dinner Gown

If you want a formal dress that’s fun and flirty, check out this one. It has a high cut in the front to show a little let and the strapless shoulders reveal a little more. Best of all, it comes in 10 colors and only costs $20 .

Can’t find a dress here that you love? Shop all the available formal gowns and dresses here .

Popular: 39 Useful Things to Pack (17 You Wouldn't Think Of)

Read next: park & cruise hotels for every port in america, popular: 107 best cruise tips, secrets, tricks, and freebies, related articles more from author, 29 must-have things to pack for an alaskan cruise (11 you’d never think of), 39 useful things to pack for your cruise (including 17 you’d never think of), 15 perfect christmas gifts for cruise lovers (2023 edition), heading to port the 9 must-have things to bring with you, 15 things under $10 to have for your next cruise, 11 sexy swimsuits for a cruise vacation, leave a reply cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Crew Member Arrested for Stabbing Three Aboard Alaskan Cruise

15+ hotels with cruise shuttles between orlando and port canaveral, 57 must-have tips, advice, and info for first-time cruisers, hotels with cruise shuttles for every major port in america, 107 best cruise tips, tricks, secrets, and freebies.

• Privacy Policy
• Terms & Conditions

10 Best Travel Dresses for Europe – Perfect for Paris!

Dresses , FASHION , Travel Clothing

Support TFG by using the links in our articles to shop. We receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you) so we can continue to create helpful free content. We earn from qualifying purchases made to the featured retailers. Thank you, we appreciate your support!

Many women love dresses for travel because they offer an all-in-one outfit without the need to mix and match tops and bottoms. In summer, they can be particularly practical keeping you cool in the heat, but not all dresses are made equal.

If you’re headed abroad, take a look at our carefully curated list of dresses that aren’t just pretty, they’ll actually help you stay fresh and cool, too.

Dresses for Traveling Europe

Table of contents.

Despite the fact that I’ve been to various parts of Europe in summer, the heat in certain cities seems to always catch me off guard. 

Rome with a  Halter Neck Summer Dress with Packable Braided Straw Hat

As I’ve trudged through the hilly streets of Lisbon or sweated my way around the ancient sites in Rome, I always cursed myself at the fact that my dresses never seemed to be the right fabric. They were either pretty but not breathable because they were made from polyester or thin but clung to my body because they were made from a jersey blend.

Rome with a Bravissimo Dress and Naot Sabrina Sandals

Below you’ll find a list of the dresses I wish I’d brought on all my past European summer travels. I’ve chosen classic, timeless, versatile styles in the most featherlight fabrics that would be perfect for Paris or just about any other hot summer destination!

What are the best lightweight, comfortable, and stylish dresses for summer in Europe? Here are our favorites!

Shop Sizes XS-XL: Quince

Linen Midi Dress 

You can never go wrong with an LBD for a trip abroad, just make sure it’s in a light, breathable fabric such as this linen dress by Quince , available in sizes XS-XL .

Beautiful yet easy to wear, this is the perfect type of dress to take with you anywhere you go! Wear it with a pair of comfortable yet stylish black sandals for effortless European fashion flair.

Shop Sizes XS-XL : Tommy Bahama  | Bloomingdales

Chambray Midi Dress

Chambray is a lovely neutral fabric that’s elegant yet fresh in hot weather. The above sleeveless chambray midi dress by Tommy Bahama exudes chic casual comfort that you can wear for a summer vacation abroad, a cruise or at a resort, or on a hot day at home, too.

If you’re looking for a chambray dress with sleeves, this cotton wrap dress is a great option too!

Shop Sizes XS-XL on Nordstrom

Long Sleeve Rayon Knee Length Dress 

Cities such as Barcelona and Venice get so hot in the summer so if you prefer sleeves, it’s essential to choose lightweight airy fabrics to keep you from overheating. The Karen Kane Rayon Dress won’t just help you pack carryon only, it will also keep you fresh on those long sightseeing days, too. Pair it with cute and comfortable strappy sandals to finish off your look.

Shop Sizes XS-XXXL: Madewell

Sleeveless Knee Length Dress with Secret Pockets

The button down tiered midi dress is one of a reader’s must haves. If you’re looking for a best dresses with pockets , well this one is for you . It has side pockets with slinky double straps and elegant front panels, this flowy midi dress will be the belle of the ball every single time you wear it.. Available in sizes XS-XXXL .

Pair with comfortable and chic tan sandals as pictured above!

Shop Sizes XS-XL: Michael Stars

Linen Shirt Dress

Whether you’re traveling for business or want to exude a sophisticated look while staying fresh in the heat, this Michael Stars Linen Shirt Dress checks all the boxes. Available in sizes XS–XL . Don’t forget to bring a dual voltage travel steamer if your hotels don’t have an iron.

If you’re looking for a sleeveless shirtdress, here’s a great option too!

Shop Sizes XS-XL: Steve Madden

Sleeveless Tiered Midi Dress

In the heat of summer, navy is the perfect alternative to black clothing and this  airy cotton tiered midi dress by Steve Madden  is as comfy as it is classic. Dress it up with  comfortable low wedges  for outdoor dining in a Parisian cafe or wear it casually with secure slides for a seaside stroll in Dubrovnik. Wear with a  cute, lightweight denim jacket  for cooler days.

Shop Sizes XS-XXL: Amazon

Rayon Wrap Dress

The TFG editor-in-chief Alex has this featherlight Zesica wrap dress in two colors. It’s inexpensive, and the rayon fabric is the best for the summer heat – just the thing to keep you cool for a long day of exploration! It’s a true wrap dress and very flattering on a range of figures. Check the pictures in the reviews! 

Tip: Choose a neutral print for European cities for the most versatility vs. a loud whimsical print, which is better suited for a cruise or beach resort.

If you prefer long dresses, take a look at the maxi version ! I have both!

Shop Sizes XS-4X: Old Navy

Linen Blend Sleeveless Midi Dress 

Love the timelessness of this midi linen dress by Old Navy . It skims the body without being overly fitted yet the structured design keeps it from looking too frumpy. The dress is made of linen and rayon blend to keep you cool but modest. Notched sweetheart neckline with wide straps and smoked back, adds just the right amount of interest to this classic silhouette making it ideal for a trip to Europe in the summer. Available in sizes XS-4X ! 

The bestselling Isha dress is available in short version too!

Short Sleeve Midi Maxi Dress

If you want a bit more coverage for the legs but still have an airy feel, this Quince midi maxi length dress has a fluid tiered silhouette, and a short sleeves make it wearable year-round, with smocked waistband gives it an extra-comfortable fit. So perfect for Europe, wear it during the day with cute and comfortable white sneakers as styled above or take take it out at night with some cushioned, stylish wedges and dangly jewelry. 

This is available in sizes XS-XL !

Shop Sizes XS-3XL: Amazon

Moisture Wicking Short Sleeve Dress

The best balance of form and function is found with the Columbia Freezer Iii Dress . It’s perfect for hot weather because the technical fabric is moisture wicking, lightweight, and breathable, yet it looks like a cute regular dress. Featuring many different colors including the Tiki Pink Waterbrush Print pictured above and other colors here !

TFG editor-in-chief Alex wearing  Navy Blue Wrap Dress in Greece

What shoes should I wear with my dresses?

Naot Sabrina Arch Support Flat Sandals

Pair Summer Dresses with Classic Leather Sandals

When visiting Paris in summer, you’ll want to be comfortable, so be sure to pick shoes that are both practical and fashionable. You can pair any of the above summer dresses with classic leather sandals like these above or even classic Superga style sneakers .

Dress for Europe with stylish and comfortable footwear !

See our list of comfortable walking sandals that are stylish, too!

Taos Footwear Star Sneaker

White Sneakers for Summer Dresses

The canvas leather and removable footbed makes these easy to wash and keep them clean. With a lace-up closure, rubber outsole, and soft textile lining, you can be sure of having a flexible fit with traction for various landscapes. This Taos Footwear Star Sneaker also has a great arch support perfect for walking around.

Halter Dress paired with  Taos Plim Soul Lux Leather Sneakers

One reader shared, “Taos is awesome. They’re comfy and have great support. My feet were never tired after a day in them.” Overall, these Taos sneakers are ranked as the number one seller with our readers!

Find out the top reader recommendations for the best white sneakers !

Thigh Society The Cooling Shorts  | Sizes XS-6X

Shorts to Wear Under Dresses

If your looking for a shorts to wear under your dresses Thigh Society is a reader favorite! The Cooling anti-chafe shorts from ThighSociety  are raved about by TFGers for so many reasons, especially their silky, hi-tech performance fabric. These shorts pull heat and moisture away from the body, keeping things cool, fresh, and chafe-free on even the hottest of days.

They’re tagless, don’t roll or bunch, and are ultra-thin and lightweight yet stretchy and durable as can be. Plus, they come in a wide range of colors and lengths and range in sizes from  XS-6X !

How do I pack my dresses?

Compass Rose Travel Packing Cubes

Packing Cubes

Dresses are the easiest thing to pack for a warm weather trip. If you’re going on a seven-day trip, pack seven dresses and you’re good to go. It’s as easy as that! Then, use slim packing cubes to save space in your suitcase and travel carry-on only.

Learn how millions of women have traveled in a smaller suitcase using packing cubes!

Top Summer Dresses Comparison Chart

What are your recommendations for top summer dresses for a trip abroad? Share in the comments below!

For more tips on what to wear in Paris, please read these posts:

• Ten-Step Packing Guide for Paris
• What to Wear in Paris Packing List
• What to Wear in Paris in Summer
• What to Wear in Paris in Winter
• Paris Travel Essentials
• French Fashion Tips
• What Shoes to Pack for Paris
• Best Luggage for Paris
• What to Pack for Paris Olympics

LIKED THIS POST? PIN THIS PIC TO SAVE IT!

If you enjoyed this post on top summer dresses for a trip abroad, please share it with your friends on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest. Thanks for reading!

25 comments.

I was happy to see Thigh Society shorts mentioned. I have 3 pairs in various colours and I never leave home without at least one pair in my carry-on. Perfect under pants and dresses.

Very popular with our community Frieda, thanks for adding on your review!

I have been looking for the perfect dress that I can wash and that will dry overnight. But your idea of taking 7 dresses for 7 days eliminates the need to wash clothes. Great!

Totally love the chambray midi dress for my 2 week trip to England next June! I travel frequently to Beirut to visit family and have used your site so many times to hone my packing list.

Thank you for this dress inspiration and for including different size options. The moisture-wicking one looks perfect for this super hot summer.

Highly recommend Reformation dresses. They’re so cute, come in a million styles and prints, and are airy and easy wearing. I prefer a midi dress and they’ve got the most diverse selection. I’ll be taking at least two on my upcoming trip to Italy.

Thank you for sharing your recommendation with us Katie. 🥰 Have an incredible time in Italy

I agree. I love Reformation dresses and I also love the Somerset dress from Anthropology.

Your posts have been my go to for a long time now! I love the new packing ideas, styles and comfortable clothing/shoes! We travel a lot, so I’m reading your posts regularly. Thank you for what you do! You are making a difference ?

Wow thank you for saying that Amanda, I really appreciate your kind words and I’ll let the team know you feel that way ☺️

You’re welcome Brenda 🙂

Aritzia has gorgeous linen and broderie anglaise dresses.

I wouldn’t have thought to wear dresses a few years ago when I started traveling internationally, but they are a great addition to a travel wardrobe. You only need a few accessories and your packing is done. The red print dress is my favorite, it’s a very versatile design.

Super easy and cute outfits too 🙂

I don’t usually wear dresses, but would like to get one for my upcoming trip to Europe. These suggestions give me a great place to start looking.

I just got back from a trip to Paris, Rome, Venice and Nice. In Paris, I kept seeing women wearing body-skimming (not tight and not overly revealing) knee length dresses with metallic flat sandals or white thick-soled sneakers. I had taken an ankle length dress and I ditched it because it looked so frumpy.

Not long ago, I don’t think I’d be brave enough to take a dress for every day. No shorts? No skirts? What will I do if….. Then I realized there really wasn’t an “if”. They are pack and require minimal matching (always a good thing for a match-a-holic). Thanks for the cool picks–I really like the patterned red one!

I love the idea of the dresses instead of anything else. Recently bought “one for all and all for one” dress that doesn’t wrinkle or shows stains, has a comfy fit and looks good in any situation. I wish there were more dresses like that because this one inspires me to be more feminine while staying comfortable. OMG, and the way it folds: takes less space than my bra. Thank you for the post! I would love to see what you will recommend for winter of fall.

Thanks Julia!

These dress ideas are perfect! I just came back from a trip to Italy in May and my most comfortable outfits were dresses. You feel put together, but they are nice and breezy for the heat. Also took along a pair of those iPanema’s you suggested and they ended up being the shoes I wore most! We were walking close to 7 miles a day and they were comfortable. Keep the great advice coming 🙂

Glad you had a great trip and enjoyed my tips 🙂 Thank you for taking the time to give me feedback.

Leaving for Rome and Germany in two weeks and loved these tips! I see a shopping trip in my future! 🙂

Submit a Comment Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

25 Cruise Wardrobe Essentials Every Women Should Pack for Vacation

Sharing is caring!

If you’re going on a cruise, there are a few wardrobe essentials you’ll want to make sure you pack. These wardrobe basics for women may not be obvious, especially if you’re cruising for the first time!

In this post I share some cruise outfit choices and accessories that ladies will likely want to pack for a cruise vacation. From wardrobe basics to handbags & undergarments, these are items that you may want to include your cruise packing list.

This post contains affiliate links which means if you click and buy that I may make a commission, at no cost to you. Please see my disclosure policy for details.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Cruise Clothing Basics to Pack for a Cruise

1. Crossbody or Belt Bag

During the day, you don’t need a traditional purse on a cruise. Instead, opt for a crossbody or belt bag that allows you to be hands-free while keeping essentials like your key card , lip balm, and other items within reach.

Recommended: Belt bag/cross body bag (check price & over 16,000 Amazon reviews here)

2. Smaller Evening Bag

While a large purse might not be necessary, having a smaller evening bag is essential for casual and formal nights.

Recommended: Evening bag

3. Light Cardigan or Shawl

Evenings on a cruise can get cool, especially in the dining room or theater. Bring a light cardigan or shawl that you can easily drape over your shoulders for added comfort.

Recommended: Lightweight cardigan

4. Comfortable Sneakers or Walking Shoes

Even if you’re not a gym-goer, comfortable sneakers or walking shoes are a must. These are ideal for walks around the ship, activities and exploring in ports of call.

Recommended: Sneakers (popular well & well reviewed)

5. Flip Flops or Slip-On Sandals

Slip-on sandals or flip flops can be worn beyond the lido deck! You may want flip flops for to wear on your balcony or to the spa.

6. Little Black Dress

A timeless piece, a little black dress is versatile and perfect for cruise formal nights . Invest in one that can be worn across multiple cruises.

Recommended: Black one shoulder dress (see 1900+ Amazon reviews)

7. Comfy Clothes

Include comfortable clothing like leggings, crew neck sweaters, and zip-up sweaters for those laid-back moments on the cruise.

8. Strapless Bra

For sleeveless dresses, a good strapless bra is a must. Depending on the style of your top (ie. backless), you may want to consider an adhesive silicone bra .

Recommended: Strapless bra and silicone sticky bra

9. Skin Colored Undergarments

Ensure you have a neutral-colored pair of underwear, especially if you plan to wear white outfits. This will make your undergarments as invisible as possible.

10. Shapewear (Optional)

If you’re wearing form-fitting outfits, adding shapewear to your packing list is optional. Wearing tighter clothing earlier in the cruise, while saving the looser cruise wear for later is a practical tip from me to you ;-).

Recommended: Shapewear

11. Neutral or Tan Sandals

Versatile tan sandals that can complement various outfits, both day and night. You can’t go wrong with a comfortable low or medium sized heel.

Recommended: Tan sandals

12. Sun Hat

Remember to pack a baseball cap or stylish sun hat for hot weather destinations and cruises. My wide brim sun hat is an essential part of my Caribbean cruise packing list!

Recommended: Sun hat (check price & 4.5* reviews here)

13. Hat Clip

This little gadget is genius! You can use this hat clip to transport your sunhat from the airport, to the cruise ship and to the beach in a port of call!

Recommended: Hat clip (check price & color options on Amazon here)

Related: 50+ Amazon Travel Accessories Cruise Passengers Pack for their Cruise

14. Jumpsuit or Romper

A comfortable jumpsuit or romper in a wrinkle-free fabric is an excellent addition to your cruise wardrobe.

Recommended: Sleeveless jumpsuit romper

15. White Dress

While not mandatory, many cruise lines will have an optional white themed evening or white party. Research your cruise to see if there are special theme nights that require specific attire, including a white dress .

Recommended: White dress (see different colors & 4.5* Amazon reviews)

Get The Ultimate Cruise Planner

Regular price: $27 now just $17.

16. Tank Tops, T-Shirts, Casual Shorts

If you’re on a warm weather cruise , mix and match tank tops or t-shirts with casual shorts for easygoing daytime outfits.

17. Maxi Dresses

Versatile maxi dresses can be dressed up for the evening or worn casually during the day, offering flexibility for your cruise wardrobe.

Recommended: Maxi dress

18. Tote Bag or Beach Bag

Essential for pool days, a mesh tote bag takes up minimal space and is perfect for carrying your essentials including sunscreen and a book or kindle.

Recommended: Mesh tote bag (a best seller)

Related: 20 Best Beach and Tote Bags for a Cruise

19. Workout Wear

Even if you’re not a fitness enthusiast, consider bringing workout wear for onboard fitness classes or activities like jogging on the ship’s track.

20. Rain Jacket, Poncho, or Umbrella

Check the weather forecast and pack a rain jacket, poncho, or umbrella if rain is a possibility during your cruise.

Related: What to Wear on an Alaska Cruise (outfit ideas with photos)

21. Socks and Closed-Toe Shoes

One item many cruisers forget to pack is socks. You’ll need socks and closed-toe shoes or sneakers for some of the cruise ship activities.

22. Sleepwear and Sleep Mask (Optional)

Comfortable sleepwear is a cruise essential. Consider a sleep mask if you’re sailing on itineraries with extended daylight hours.

Recommended: Sleep mask

23. Inexpensive Cruise Jewelry

Consider leaving your expensive jewelry at home to avoid the risk or loss or theft. Instead, opt for affordable and trendy jewelry (like this tennis bracelet ) for your cruise.

Recommended: Tennis bracelet (available in yellow & white)

24. Swimsuit

Always pack at least one sw imsuit for your cruise, even if you aren’t on a hot weather cruise. There are several hot tubs on most cruise ships, and occasionally covered pools.

In addition, a swimsuit is handy if you plan to go to the thermal spa.

Recommended: Swimsuit with tummy control (check other colors – over 25,000 4.5* reviews)

25. Swimsuit Cover Up

Don’t forget to pack a swimsuit cover up or two for your cruise vacation. You’ll want a cover up for when you go from the pool to indoor spaces in the cruise ship.

Recommended: Swimsuit cover up (gorgeous style with good coverage)

Popular & Related Posts

• 50+ Must-have Cruise Essentials from Amazon
• 25 Best Cruise Dresses: Amazon Ladies Resort Wear
• Plus Size Cruise Wear: 25+ Beautiful Cruise Outfits
• Cruise Wear for Men: Men’s Packing List for a Cruise
• What to Wear on a Cruise for Ladies Over 60
• Cruise Wear over 50: Flattering Cruise Outfits for Women 
• 25 Gorgeous Swimsuit Cover Ups for a Cruise
• What to Wear on a Cool Weather Cruise

Final Thoughts

This list of cruise wardrobe basics for women includes many essential items you’ll want to pack for a cruise. Keep in mind that we’re all different, so use this list as a guide or as a reminder to pack your own favorite items for vacation.

Are these basics that you always pack for a cruise or think should be added to this list? Please let me know in the comments below.

Happy Cruising!

If you enjoy this post please don’t keep it to yourself ;-). Please feel free to share on Facebook or Pinterest (share buttons at the top). Thanks so much!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

More From Forbes

How to plan a memorable first-time alaska cruise.

• Share to Facebook
• Share to Twitter
• Share to Linkedin

The remarkable scenery of Glacier Bay is a highlight on many Alaskan cruise itineraries.

Embark on a journey through Alaska's pristine wilderness aboard a cruise ship, where you can experience the awe-inspiring nature of the last American frontier in comfort.

As you glide past icy fjords and into secluded bays, seize the chance to witness magnificent glaciers up close, and keep your eyes peeled for the mighty bears, whales and eagles that call this rugged landscape home.

However, don't make the mistake of thinking you’ll have peace and quiet. Remote it may be, but Alaska is one of the world’s most popular cruise destinations.

Ports such as Skagway can accommodate up to four large cruise ships at once. Smaller ports can easily become overwhelmed with visitors, while popular shore excursions sell out well in advance. As such, there’s a lot to understand about Alaska cruises before booking.

Cruise Lines In Alaska

Most major cruise lines sail in Alaska, ranging from large, modern ships full of amenities, down to smaller, older ships with more outside space and a relaxed vibe. Expedition cruises on even smaller ships focus more on wildlife and geology.

When picking a line and ship, consider your choice of cabin carefully. Although inside cabins offer a cheaper deal, the value of a balcony cabin shouldn't be underestimated. On scenic cruising days, you’ll be able to enjoy the landscape—and potentially wildlife—without jostling for position.

Alaska Cruise Itineraries Explained

There are two main types of Alaskan cruise itinerary: the Inside Passage roundtrip, and a one-way Gulf voyage. Each route offers unique opportunities to see both glaciers and wildlife, with specifics depending on the season.

New FBI Warning As Hackers Strike Email Senders Must Do This 1 Thing

2 obvious signs of workplace gaslighting from a psychologist, baby reindeer real martha reveals identity in photo with piers morgan.

Alaska is a popular cruise destination in the summer.

Seven-night Inside Passage cruises typically depart from hubs like Seattle or Vancouver, calling at popular stops like Juneau, Ketchikan, and Skagway. Many feature a scenic cruising tour of the breathtaking Glacier Bay National Park.

For example, this 7-night itinerary on Norwegian Encore including all those highlights is available between April and October in both 2024 and 2025.

For those seeking deeper exploration, one-way Gulf voyages include the highlights of the Inside Passage route, but also venture closer to the Arctic Circle. Typically, such itineraries start or end at Whittier or Seward near Anchorage.

This 7-night itinerary from Celebrity Cruises includes port calls at Sitka, the historic Icy Strait Point, and scenic cruising of the Hubbard Glacier on the way from Vancouver to Seward.

Some cruise lines combine Gulf voyages with curated tours before or after the cruise for a comprehensive Alaska experience. Such tour packages include famous rail journeys, visits to Denali National Park, and optional overnight stays in Anchorage or Fairbanks.

Longer Alaskan cruise itineraries, especially those on smaller ships or expedition lines, may include remote locales like Kodiak Island and the Aleutian Islands.

Port Excursions In Alaska

Exploring ashore on guided excursions is a highlight of any Alaskan cruise. Each port offers unique opportunities to engage with the natural environment and local culture, but the popularity of cruising in the region means advance booking is essential.

Some of the most popular tours may fill up just days after they go on sale, in some cases months before the actual cruise. Consider independent tour options, but read the terms and conditions carefully and check for reviews from previous cruisers.

Mendenhall Glacier is a popular cruise excursion from Juneau on Alaska cruises.

Alaskan capital Juneau is renowned for its glacier tours and wildlife viewing opportunities. The hike through backcountry to the Mendenhall glacier requires a good level of physical fitness, while whale watching boat trips are just as popular.

The historic Skagway train tour along the Klondike route in a vintage coach, featuring stunning vistas and rich gold rush era history, is a must-do.

Cultural tours in Ketchikan often include visits to the Saxman Native Village, where totem poles and traditional dance performances offer insight into the local Tlingit culture.

When To Cruise Alaska

Alaska is not a year-round cruising spot, and the season is shorter than most leading cruise destinations. Alaska’s cruising season ranges from late April to late September.

April : Expect relatively dry days, though not completely devoid of light showers and fog. Bears are only just emerging from their winter slumber so sightings are unlikely, but you may see eagles and humpback whales.

May : With more ship options, relatively dry weather, long hours of daylight, and good value fares, May is a popular time to cruise Alaska before the peak. Wildlife, including migrating shorebirds, whales, and bears, are more visible.

June : Mild temperatures and long daylight hours—up to 19 per day—provide optimal cruising conditions. Enjoy vibrant greenery and more wildlife sightings, but prepare for the possibility of mosquitoes (especially on trips inland) and variable weather.

July : July brings mild temperatures, often reaching the 70s, but it's also the start of the wetter period. Expect long hours of daylight ideal for wildlife sightings, including salmon runs and bear activity. However, peak cruise season means high fares, busier ships, and busier ports. Local produce starts to feature heavily on menus shoreside.

Juneau, Alaska, has a spectacular natural setting and is a gateway to many exciting outdoor ... [+] experiences.

August : Expect rain, with daytime temperatures in the low to mid-60s and nights cooling to the upper 40s, and ample wildlife viewing opportunities, as bears and bald eagles are active near salmon streams. Fares, along with the number of daylight hours, fall later in the month.

September : Expect cooler temperatures and frequent rain, which may risk the success of outdoor excursions. Despite less demand, wildlife viewing remains good with bears still active near salmon streams and whales still present in coastal waters. September also offers a chance to see the northern lights .

What To Pack For Alaska Cruises

Packing smart for an Alaska cruise means being prepared for both adventure in the great outdoors and the comforts of cruise life.

An Alaskan journey demands attire for cooler climates. Essentials include a fleece jacket, thermal socks, and a warm hat to combat the cold, along with sweaters and thermal underwear for effective layering. Waterproof gear such as a reliable rain jacket and waterproof pants are crucial for unexpected rain or snow showers.

You should also consider waterproof bags to protect your electronics and important documents during shore excursions.

Sun protection is vital due to the deceptive Alaskan sun. High SPF sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat are necessary to guard against UV rays and snow glare.

Footwear should include waterproof hiking boots for rugged terrain and slip-proof sandals for the deck, accompanied by thermal or wool socks for additional warmth.

For shore excursions, a collapsible backpack and a thermal water bottle will keep you organized and hydrated, while binoculars can greatly enhance wildlife tours. A simple first aid kit, sea-sickness bands, and insect repellent are other wise packing choices.

• Editorial Standards
• Reprints & Permissions

Join The Conversation

One Community. Many Voices. Create a free account to share your thoughts. 

Forbes Community Guidelines

Our community is about connecting people through open and thoughtful conversations. We want our readers to share their views and exchange ideas and facts in a safe space.

In order to do so, please follow the posting rules in our site's  Terms of Service.   We've summarized some of those key rules below. Simply put, keep it civil.

Your post will be rejected if we notice that it seems to contain:

• False or intentionally out-of-context or misleading information
• Insults, profanity, incoherent, obscene or inflammatory language or threats of any kind
• Attacks on the identity of other commenters or the article's author
• Content that otherwise violates our site's  terms.

User accounts will be blocked if we notice or believe that users are engaged in:

• Continuous attempts to re-post comments that have been previously moderated/rejected
• Racist, sexist, homophobic or other discriminatory comments
• Attempts or tactics that put the site security at risk
• Actions that otherwise violate our site's  terms.

So, how can you be a power user?

• Stay on topic and share your insights
• Feel free to be clear and thoughtful to get your point across
• ‘Like’ or ‘Dislike’ to show your point of view.
• Protect your community.
• Use the report tool to alert us when someone breaks the rules.

Thanks for reading our community guidelines. Please read the full list of posting rules found in our site's  Terms of Service.

• Delta Air Lines-stock
• News for Delta Air Lines

The 3 Best Travel Stocks to Buy in May 2024

InvestorPlace - Stock Market News, Stock Advice & Trading Tips

These days, the narrative underlying the best travel stocks to buy is a tricky one. After all, with the Covid-19 pandemic being more of a distant memory, the concept of revenge travel has faded. Nevertheless, it’s not a completely irrelevant phenomenon.

While the acute urgency might not be there, consumers are increasingly prioritizing new experiences . That’s especially the case for young and upwardly mobile workers. Plus, with the economy adding more jobs than expected (the April employment picture aside), it’s possible that the travel industry’s total addressable market has expanded.

If so, investors can potentially bank on this development. Below are the best travel stocks to buy.

Delta Air Lines (DAL)

One of the reasons why Delta Air Lines (NYSE: DAL ) ranks among the best travel stocks to buy is relative performance. Since the beginning of the year, DAL has popped up a bit more than 29%. Generally, it has been a gradual rise skyward. On the other hand, the discount airline specialists have been disappointing and turbulent.

To be sure, Delta isn’t perfect. It could use some work on its balance sheet, specifically its modest cash-to-debt ratio of 0.17X. However, I do appreciate that the company posts a three-year revenue growth rate of 49.8%. That’s well above the industry average. Even with that performance, DAL is cheap, trading at only 0.57X trailing-year revenue. With consumers prioritizing experiences, Delta now seems a reasonable wager.

For fiscal 2024, experts are looking for earnings per share of $6.62 on revenue of $58.11 billion. Last year, the company posted earnings of $6.25 per share on sales of $61.91 billion. While it might not bring the excitement factor, it makes for one of the best travel stocks to buy.

Royal Caribbean Cruises (RCL)

As with Delta Air Lines above, relative performance is a key factor for Royal Caribbean Cruises (NYSE: RCL ). Since the beginning of this year, RCL stock gained almost 18% of equity value. It’s been a choppy ride but it’s getting the job done. The same cannot be said for its two competitors, both of which are down double-digit percentages during the aforementioned period.

Royal isn’t a sterling example within the travel industry. Looking at its balance sheet, its cash-to-debt ratio sits at a lowly 0.02X. That’s not good compared to related enterprises. However, it does sport a three-year revenue growth rate of 68.3%. While this robust metric won’t last, it does demonstrate the viability of Royal’s recovery narrative. Also, shares trade at a discounted 12.97X to forward earnings.

Interestingly, for fiscal 2024, analysts project that EPS will land at $10.89 on revenue of $16.38 billion. Last year, the cruise ship operator posted EPS of $6.77 on sales of $13.9 billion. Combined with the aforementioned cheap multiple, RCL makes a case for best travel stocks to buy.

Uber (UBER)

Technically speaking, ride-sharing giant Uber (NYSE: UBER ) doesn’t fall under the category of best travel stocks to buy. That’s because it’s not really a travel enterprise. Instead, it belongs in the software application ecosystem. It’s true magic stems from connecting people with extra time and space to provide a mobility service with those who need such solutions.

Moving forward, Uber will likely be indispensable when it comes to mobility abroad under the vacationing context. Too many times, when going abroad to “questionable” areas, tourists can get easily scammed by taxi drivers. Frankly, tourists usually don’t know the language and they don’t know the lay of the land.

With Uber, you don’t need to know. Everything is handled through the app, including service complaints and what not. Essentially, the platform keeps honest people honest.

Best of all, the business resonates with Wall Street. For fiscal 2024, analysts anticipate EPS of $1.36 on sales of $43.27 billion. Last year, the company posted earnings of 81 cents per share on sales of $34.83 billion.

On the date of publication, Josh Enomoto did not have (either directly or indirectly) any positions in the securities mentioned in this article.  The opinions expressed in this article are those of the writer, subject to the InvestorPlace.com  Publishing Guidelines .

A former senior business analyst for Sony Electronics, Josh Enomoto has helped broker major contracts with Fortune Global 500 companies. Over the past several years, he has delivered unique, critical insights for the investment markets, as well as various other industries including legal, construction management, and healthcare. Tweet him at @EnomotoMedia.

More From InvestorPlace

• The #1 AI Investment Might Be This Company You’ve Never Heard Of
• Musk’s “Project Omega” May Be Set to Mint New Millionaires. Here’s How to Get In.
• It doesn’t matter if you have $500 or $5 million. Do this now.

The post The 3 Best Travel Stocks to Buy in May 2024 appeared first on InvestorPlace .

Delta Air Lines News MORE

Related stocks.

12 best Panama Canal cruises for a bucket-list trip

A Panama Canal transit is a rite of passage for many cruise lovers. Experiencing this marvel of early 20th-century engineering appeals to those with a wide array of interests, from history and politics to colonial architecture and wildlife. Built by the U.S. government between 1903 and 1914, this 50-mile waterway linking the Atlantic and Pacific oceans revolutionized shipping by creating an expedited route for the transit of cargo and, ultimately, cruise ship passengers.

Panama Canal itineraries are offered by almost every cruise line. Thanks to a 2016 canal expansion project, a third set of locks can now accommodate larger vessels. It's possible to cruise the Panama Canal on ships of all sizes (from 148 guests to more than 3,000) on itineraries that range from a week in the sun to a six-month world cruise.

Some ships sail a full transit of the canal, from the Atlantic to the Pacific or vice versa. These one-way journeys between Miami or Fort Lauderdale and Los Angeles or San Diego visit ports in Central America, South America, Mexico and California.

Others sail only a partial transit, entering the locks from the Atlantic and cruising into Lake Gatun before turning around and exiting again. These itineraries, sailing round-trip from Florida ports, combine the canal experience with island hopping in the Caribbean.

For more cruise guides, news and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

The array of options means that a Panama Canal cruise experience is possible even if you're short on time or have a limited budget — and chances are high that your favorite cruise line offers one or more itineraries. Most sailings attract couples, typically retirees, but if the timing is right, a Panama Canal cruise can also be a great multigenerational experience.

Here are a dozen of the best Panama Canal cruises to consider.

Holland America's 14- to 17-night Panama Canal cruises

Holland America offers a variety of Panama Canal cruises , but the most popular itineraries span 14 to 17 nights. They offer a full transit between Fort Lauderdale or Miami and San Diego, Seattle or Vancouver, British Columbia, or vice versa and are offered on multiple ships, including Koningsdam, Zuiderdam, Zaandam, Eurodam and Nieuw Amsterdam. These sailings call on Cartagena, Colombia; Puntarenas, Costa Rica; Puerto Quetzal, Guatemala; and Huatulco and Puerto Vallarta or Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. Longer sailings also call on several Caribbean islands.

Who should go : Holland America ships sailing a full transit are popular with retired couples who appreciate the cruise line's consistency and good value. All four ships accommodate between 1,432 and 2,650 passengers and offer signature onboard experiences that include the Greenhouse Spa and the World Stage for evening production shows. The larger Eurodam, Koningsdam and Nieuw Amsterdam feature additional specialty dining options, such as Tamarind and Nami Sushi, as well as popular music venues B.B. King's Blues Club and Billboard Onboard.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises' 16-night Los Angeles-to-Miami cruise

Regent Seven Seas Cruises ' newest ship, Seven Seas Grandeur, debuted in November 2023 and will transit the Panama Canal on several occasions in the next few years. The 16-night Miami-to-Los Angeles (Dec. 13-29, 2024) and 16-night Los Angeles-to-Miami (Jan. 8-23, 2025) transits offer luxurious all-inclusive pampering, plus port calls in Ensenada, Cabo San Lucas and Acapulco, Mexico; Puerto Quetzal, Guatemala; Corinto, Nicaragua; Panama City; Cartagena, Colombia; and George Town, Grand Cayman.

Plan even further ahead for Grandeur's 22-night Miami-to-Los Angeles transit (Jan. 3-25, 2026) to enjoy additional Caribbean ports of call. From Jan. 25 to Feb. 9, 2026, the ship will sail a 16-night Panama Canal transit from Los Angeles to Miami with an itinerary similar to the 2024 and early 2025 cruises.

Who should go : This itinerary can be a wonderful splurge for a couple seeking to celebrate a milestone anniversary or birthday in a memorable way on a luxurious new ship. Prices start at a hefty $10,099 per person for a spacious balcony suite, but they also include airfare, transfers, gratuities, dining and beverages, Wi-Fi and shore excursions — meaning you'll hardly have any other vacation expenses.

Related: The 9 best luxury cruise lines for elegance and exclusivity

Celebrity Cruises' 11-night Panama Canal & Southern Caribbean cruise

For a Panama Canal experience that begins and ends in Fort Lauderdale, Celebrity Cruises ' 11-night Panama Canal & Southern Caribbean itinerary is a great option. There's still time to book the Dec. 2, 2024, cruise or the half-dozen almost identical sailings that follow through April 2025. All sailings are aboard the 3,260-passenger Celebrity Beyond and visit Cartagena, Colombia; Colon, Panama; Oranjestad, Aruba; Kralendjik, Bonaire; and George Town, Grand Cayman (Willemstad, Curacao, replaces Grand Cayman on some 2025 sailings).

Who should go : Celebrity Beyond and its Edge-series sister ships appeal to millennials, Gen Xers and young-at-heart baby boomers who appreciate innovative design, entertainment and dining options. The ships are geared toward couples or groups of friends, but families with older teens might also enjoy the onboard vibe. There are no splash pools or waterslides for younger kids, although calls on three Caribbean islands offer aquatic fun.

Windstar Cruises' 7-night Costa Rica & Panama Canal cruise

To explore the Panama Canal region in a relaxed manner aboard an intimate motorized sailing yacht or small ship, check out Windstar Cruises' seven-night Costa Rica & Panama Canal itinerary. Bookable on more than a dozen dates from November 2024 through March 2026, the itinerary is offered aboard 148-passenger Wind Star or Wind Spirit (in 2024 and 2025) and 312-passenger Star Pride (in 2026). The ship will travel from Colon, Panama, to Puerto Caldera, Costa Rica (or vice versa), transiting the canal. Passengers can visit Panama City and Isla Parida in Panama, plus Golfo Dolce and Quepos (for Manuel Antonio National Park) in Costa Rica.

Who should go : Fans of small-ship cruising who enjoy a casual onboard ambience, are interested in nature and wildlife and wish to sample the regional flavors of Central America should consider a Windstar cruise . All accommodations on the sailing yachts are in snug yet well-designed staterooms with windows but no balconies. Wind Star and Wind Spirit are cozy and social four-deck ships, each featuring a pool and pool bar, a lounge and two restaurants. Star Pride is the better option for those who prefer a more spacious suitelike cabin with a balcony and a larger bathroom.

Related: Big vs. small cruise ships: Which will I like better?

Silversea's 18-night Fort Lauderdale-to-Los Angeles cruise

Silversea Cruises ' 18-night Fort Lauderdale-to-Los Angeles transit aboard 596-passenger Silver Moon offers a luxurious and leisurely way to experience the Panama Canal along with top ports in four countries and 10 sea days. The itinerary includes Cartagena, Colombia (where the ship overnights); Puntarenas, Costa Rica; Puerto Quetzal, Guatemala; and Puerto Vallarta and Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. The sailing takes place from April 1 to 19, 2025.

Silver Moon is one of four Silversea ships to feature the S.A.L.T. (Sea and Land Taste) program, which combines regionally inspired dining in S.A.L.T. Kitchen, cooking classes and demonstrations in S.A.L.T. Lab with culinary-inspired shore excursions.

Who should go : Silversea's clientele is mostly mature couples with a luxury mindset and an appreciation for elevated dining with a strong regional focus. They also appreciate the cruise line's all-inclusive ease. An almost three-week itinerary such as this is likely to attract retirees seeking an extended warm-weather escape.

Related: The 10 best cruises for couples seeking romance and together time at sea

Carnival Cruise Line's 8-night Panama Canal cruise from Tampa

Experiencing the Panama Canal doesn't have to be time-consuming or budget-busting. Carnival Cruise Line 's eight-night Panama Canal from Tampa itinerary offers a round-trip, partial-transit sailing aboard the 2,124-passenger Carnival Legend and Carnival Miracle. The ships call in Limon, Costa Rica, and George Town, Grand Cayman. Itineraries are available on several dates in 2024 and 2025, and cruise fares begin at under $900 per person.

With multiple pools (including the adults-only aft Serenity Pool), a WaterWorks aqua park, the Camp Ocean kids club and a wide array of restaurants, these ships offer enough diversions for sea-day fun, even at half the size of Carnival's newest megaships.

Who should go : Carnival's action-packed ships and affordable cruise fares appeal to families, friends and couples of all ages who enjoy a lively onboard ambience and casual complimentary dining options (including a Guy Fieri burger venue).

Related: The best cruise lines for families

Seabourn's 34-night Caribbean Gems & Panama Canal cruise

For a one-way Panama Canal transit that visits 12 countries (St. Barts, Guadeloupe, Dominica, St. Kitts and Nevis, the British Virgin Islands, the Dominican Republic, Curacao, Colombia, Panama, Costa Rica, Guatemala and Mexico) and offers 15 relaxing and luxurious days at sea, consider Seabourn 's 34-night Caribbean Gems & Panama Canal cruise. The 450-guest Seabourn Sojourn will sail from Miami to Los Angeles, departing in November 2025.

You'll enjoy beach time as you island hop in the Caribbean, while calls on Golfito and Puntarenas in Costa Rica offer access to eco-adventure. Visits to Puerto Quetzal in Guatemala and Puerto Chiapas and Huatulco in Mexico feature excursions focused on pre-Spanish-colonial culture, coffee cultivation and more, while a call on Cabo San Lucas offers whale watching, deep-sea fishing or tequila tasting opportunities.

Who should go : Work-from-anywhere entrepreneurs and retirees who enjoy the luxury and refinement of small-ship cruising will enjoy this monthlong Panama Canal transit. Seabourn Sojourn pampers its guests with attentive service, elevated cuisine and all-ocean-facing suites featuring walk-in closets and spacious marble bathrooms. Seabourn's all-inclusive cruise fares also cover gratuities and complimentary wines and spirits.

Princess Cruises' 12-night Panama Canal with Costa Rica & Caribbean cruise

While Princess Cruises does offer several longer ocean-to-ocean Panama Canal itineraries, its popular 12-night Panama Canal with Costa Rica & Caribbean cruises conveniently sail round trip from Fort Lauderdale on more than 20 dates in 2024, 2025 and 2026.

What's more, you can choose between two ships: the 3,140-guest Caribbean Princess or the 3,080-guest Emerald Princess. In addition to the partial transit, these sailings call on several Caribbean islands, including Aruba, Curacao, Jamaica and Grand Cayman, as well as Cartagena, Columbia; Limon, Costa Rica; and Colon, Panama.

Who should go : Couples who enjoy a ship with a more traditional vibe and families with kids who are content to participate in interactive learning activities and nature-based adventure (versus waterslides) will enjoy this cruise. Princess ships are known for their Movies Under the Stars screenings, multiple pools, specialty dining options, such as Sabatini's Italian Trattoria and The Salty Dog Gastropub, and Crooners piano bar.

Related: The 5 best destinations you can visit on a Princess Cruises ship

Norwegian Cruise Line's 12-night South America: Peru, Colombia & Ecuador cruise

There's no "Panama Canal" in this itinerary's name, but Norwegian Cruise Line 's 12-night South America: Peru, Colombia & Ecuador cruise (Feb. 27-March 11, 2026) does a full canal transit as it sails from Miami to Lima, Peru. The 2,402-passenger Norwegian Jade will visit historic Santa Marta and Cartagena in Colombia; Panama City; Manta, Ecuador; and Trujillo and Lima in Peru.

Who should go : Couples and friends interested in experiencing not just a Panama Canal transit but some of the top coastal experiences along the Pacific coast of South America should choose this itinerary. Norwegian Jade is an older, smaller vessel that was refurbished in 2022 and features a top deck more conducive to sunning than thrill rides. The ship also has a surprising number of restaurants for its size: two main dining rooms, a buffet restaurant, a pub-style bar and grill, an Asian restaurant and an outdoor grill on a complimentary basis, plus six specialty dining venues (including a steakhouse and venues showcasing French, Italian and Japanese cuisines) for an added fee.

Oceania's 16-night Miami-to-Los Angeles cruise

Oceania Cruises ' 1,200-passenger Vista — which debuted in May 2023 as the first new-build ship in Oceania's fleet in more than a decade — will offer back-to-back, 16-night Miami-to-Los Angeles (Jan. 8-24, 2025) and Los Angeles-to-Miami (Jan. 24-Feb. 9, 2025) itineraries. Both sailings visit six countries with port calls that include George Town, Grand Cayman; Cartagena, Colombia; Puntarenas, Costa Rica; Corinto, Nicaragua; Puerto Quetzal, Guatemala; and Acapulco, Cabo San Lucas and Ensenada, Mexico. (The second sailing visits San Diego instead of Ensenada.)

Who should go : Oceania's newest ship offers a great compromise between a small and medium-size vessel and is ideal for those seeking a premium cruise experience with casual sophistication. Older couples especially will appreciate the ship's elegant cabin decor in soft hues of wheat and seagrass, mix of grand and intimate spaces and wide array of dining options. (Two new and noteworthy venues on Vista include Ember for inventive American cuisine and Aquamar Kitchen for wellness-focused breakfast, lunch and dinner.) A more immersive mixology program features curated cocktail menus, indulgent pairing experiences and specialty beverage carts.

Related: The 5 best destinations you can visit on an Oceania Cruises ship

Cunard's 26-night Southampton-to-San Francisco cruise

Cunard's brand-new 2,996-passenger ship Queen Anne, which debuts in May 2023, will make both its first transatlantic crossing and its first Panama Canal transit on this historic 26-night Southampton-to-San Francisco sailing (Jan. 9-Feb. 4, 2025). The ship will first cross the Atlantic and then overnight in New York before calling on Aruba, transiting the canal and visiting Puerto Quetzal, Guatemala and Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. It will conclude with an overnight in San Francisco.

The winter transatlantic crossing might not be right for everyone, but the second half of this voyage explores warm-weather destinations with plenty of relaxing sea days for sunning, reading, taking dance lessons and enjoying expert lectures.

Who should go : British cruise line Cunard appeals mainly to older travelers who savor the line's formal traditions. This cruise is for you if you enjoy afternoon tea, dressing up for dinner, gala evenings and dancing to big-band orchestras. This particular itinerary appeals to retirees who wish to visit several cruise regions in one sailing.

Viking's 180-day World Voyage

For the ultimate cruise indulgence, Viking's 180-day World Voyage I includes a Panama Canal transit (on Christmas Day, no less) as 930-passenger Viking Sky cruises from Fort Lauderdale to New York City (Dec. 19, 2024-June 17, 2025). This round-the-world cruise will visit 37 countries as guests enjoy Viking Sky's modern Scandinavian interior decor, soothing LivNordic Spa, two pools (including one with a retractable roof) and six onboard restaurants. Pricing includes airfare, gratuities and complimentary wine and beer with lunch and dinner.

If this longer voyage is sold out, consider the 138-day Viking World Cruise (departing Dec. 19, 2025), also on Viking Sky. This sailing, which travels from Fort Lauderdale to London (Greenwich), visits 28 countries and transits the Panama Canal on the eighth day.

Who should go : With cruise fares that start at $79,995 and $59,995 per person, respectively, these extended adventures at sea require a luxury budget. Viking 's base clientele is mostly retired or close-to-retirement-age professionals who enjoy the cruise line's focus on educational enrichment (via onboard lectures) and serene ambience (there's no casino, and the nighttime vibe is on the quiet side).

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• Top ways cruisers waste money
• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

The newer, the better: How wheelchair users can travel smoothly

Chris Ricci can walk only short distances at a time, but he has traveled the world on his scooter.

The 57-year-old U.S. Army veteran has limited mobility stemming from a foot injury he sustained in the 1980s and related complications has found cruises an accessible way to explore destinations like Alaska or the Caribbean. Just this month, he, his wife and friends took a week-long Royal Caribbean International cruise to Belize, Honduras and Mexico.

Ricci, who is based in Lakeland, Florida, simply had to drive to Tampa to board the Enchantment of the Seas. “I think it’s pretty easy,” he told USA TODAY. They booked an accessible stateroom for the first time, too.

“It was really big,” said Ricci, who chronicles his cruises and other travels on his YouTube channel, Scootin Around the World.  “I had no problem getting the scooter into the room.”

Cruise ships can offer guests who use mobility devices an accessible, streamlined way to travel. But some extra planning can go a long way toward ensuring the trip goes smoothly. Here’s what to know.

How this adult-only cruise line integrated accessibility into its experiences

Do cruise ships have accessible staterooms for mobility devices?

Cruise lines do offer accessible staterooms, but they’re not all the same. “Make sure that you have the accessible room that's best for you,” said Joy Burns, organization and PR manager at accessible travel booking platform Wheel the World .

For instance, some staterooms may be better suited to motorized wheelchair users, but the setup may not be conducive for passengers who use other kinds of devices, according to her husband, Bert, who has been paralyzed since 1982 and has taken more than 20 cruises.

“If I got a wheelchair-accessible room that's made for a power wheelchair with a Hoyer lift, the bed’s up real high,” he said. “I can’t transfer with a high bed. I use a manual wheelchair, so I’m down low.”

Standard staterooms may also be able to accommodate mobility devices, but guests should familiarize themselves with cruise lines’ requirements.

Passengers booking a standard cabin on Carnival Cruise Line ships must have devices that can fit through a 22-inch-wide doorway, according to its website . The devices must also fold and collapse to allow for safe exit from the room (passengers cannot store mobility devices in corridors or public spaces).

“Guests who bring scooters that are larger than 21" (53.34 cm) wide, or travel with multiple scooters in the same stateroom, must purchase a fully accessible stateroom with a wider doorway (32”, 81.3 cm), or rent a smaller scooter appropriately suited for their stateroom,” the line said on its website. “Guests may be required to have their scooters sized at the time of check-in to ensure it fits in the stateroom.”

Major cruise lines typically have accessibility departments that can help guests navigate the process, according to Sylvia Longmire, an accessible travel writer who runs the blog and travel brand Spin the Globe .

“Talk to the accessibility department to ask the questions and let them know what kind of equipment you're bringing if you're bringing your own stuff,” said Longmire, who has multiple sclerosis and has taken over 30 cruises, most of which have been with a scooter or wheelchair. “Let them know what your ability or disability is, what your level is, what your accessibility requirements are. And that way, they can tell you what kind of cabin you might need, what location, (information) about the ship, and everything before you even call to make the reservation.”

For those booking through a travel agent, she said she “highly” recommends working with someone who has a disability or is an expert in accessible travel.

What cruises are best for guests with mobility devices?

Some destinations may also be better suited to guests with mobility devices than others. 

Once, during a New Zealand cruise, the Burnses’ ship hit some rough water, causing Bert to roll out of the casino and crash into the bar (though no one was hurt). Joy recommended researching the conditions of the seas. ( Click here for USA TODAY’S guide to the best times to cruise by region.)

She added that expedition cruises , which often feature activities that require guests to get on and off Zodiac boats, may not be as accessible.

What cruise ship is best for guests with mobility devices?

New ships tend to have more features that can make a trip easier for guests with mobility devices, said the Burnses and Longmire. Those include automatic sliding doors in public spaces, stateroom locks that allow passengers to wave their key to open the door and pool lifts.

“The newer the ship, the better the accessibility,” said Longmire.

Can I get a mobility device through a cruise line?

Guests can arrange to rent mobility devices through vendors like Scootaround or Special Needs at Sea (Longmire is a contract employee for Scootaround).

Rentals may also be available at the cruise terminal, and some lines have a limited number of scooters and wheelchairs available on the ship, according to Longmire. She estimated rentals can run from roughly $80 to $250 depending on the type of equipment, the length of time guests need it and other factors.

Do cruise lines have accessible excursions?

Yes, but options may be limited. Joy said accessible shore excursions available through cruise lines are “few and far between,” and she and Bert have taken cruises where there were none available through the cruise line at all.

Longmire noted that “cruise lines are entirely dependent on the availability of excursions with whoever they're contracting with.” If a given destination doesn’t have wheelchair taxis, for example, that limits cruise lines’ offerings.

Are there blind scuba divers? Here's the accessible way anyone can explore the ocean

When they are available through the line, Longmire said many of them are what she calls windshield tours – bus tours with a group of other passengers that might include one or two 15-minute stops to take photos. “And the rest of it is just seeing everything out the window,” she said.

However, she added that cruise lines “get a little bit better” each year about offering those.

Joy said passengers can also book accessible shore excursions through companies like Wheel the World. Longmire has had luck booking shuttles and tours directly through providers in various ports as well, though guests should take care to be back in time before the ship leaves.

Are tender ports accessible?

When it comes to accessibility at tender ports – where guests have to take a small vessel from the ship to shore – Longmire said it’s “not very black and white.” Cruise ships may let guests board tenders and some have technology to help passengers with wheelchairs do so, but the port’s capabilities may be different.

“Just because you're able to get from the ship to the tender doesn't mean that you'll be able to get from the tender to the dock,” said Longmire.

Rules may differ as well, with some lines allowing guests in manual wheelchairs to use tenders but prohibiting motorized devices. She recommended checking with the accessibility department about those policies.

The Burnses, for their part, have generally found tender ports to be inaccessible, and Joy suggested travelers review itineraries to see how many they include. 

Overall, Longmire said her experience on cruises has been “really good,” both for their accessibility and convenience (you can visit multiple places but unpack once, for instance). “I always recommend to wheelchair users for their first travel experience, like, if you don't get seasick and you’re okay with cruises, a cruise is the way to go.”

Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville. You can reach him at [email protected].

Norwegian launches new cruise discount for teachers, complete with onboard credit

This Teacher Appreciation Week, Norwegian Cruise Line is extending an all-new year-round discount for teachers planning their next vacation.

Educators and staff from the U.S. and Canada can now get an exclusive 5% discount off the regular fare, plus a $50 onboard credit once they register and verify their status through NCL.

"We are proud of our history of thanking educators for their hard work and commitment to shaping the next generation of future leaders," Norwegian Cruise Line President David J. Herrera said in a statement with the newly announced promo.

Editor’s Picks

It's not too late to book summer travel deals, these expert tips make it easier

• Apr 30, 2024

Celebrate teachers with the best gifts they'll truly appreciate

• May 07, 2024

It's Teacher Appreciation Week. Here's where educators can get freebies, discounts

• May 06, 2024

Related Articles

This comes as a latest part of the cruise line's Giving Joy recognition program in its fifth year, which awards teachers with a free vacation.

Related Topics

Up next in travel—.

Exclusive: Mom speaks out after Air Force rescued son from cruise ship

Airbnb launches stays at 'Up' house, 'Inside Out' headquarters and more 'Icons'

Tips to travel Iceland on a budget, plus travel expert-approved gear

Shop editors picks, sponsored content by taboola.

• Privacy Policy — 
• Your US State Privacy Rights — 
• Children's Online Privacy Policy — 
• Interest-Based Ads — 
• Terms of Use — 
• Do Not Sell My Info — 
• Contact Us — 

© 2024 ABC News