Want to know what to pack for a Mediterranean Cruise?
Packing can sometimes be a little overwhelming, if you’re not sure what to pack… Between foreign ports, formal evenings, dinners and on-shore activities, you’ll want to make sure you are prepared without having to pack too much.
One of the things we love the most about cruising is that you only have to unpack your suitcase once. To make things a little easier, our team at Whitestar Cruise & Travel compiled some of our favourite tips to help you pack the perfect suitcase for your holiday at sea.
So let’s unpack, for you to pack…
Essentials:
- Device chargers
- Zip-Lock bags – (for your toiletries while in transit in case they leak)
- Casual clothes
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Swimsuit and swim cover-ups
- Sweater or light jacket (for when it gets a little chilly)
- A scarf, sarong or pashmina (for a bit of warmth and to cover your shoulders if you are visiting ancient sites & churches)
- Evening attire & shoes
Here's More Information on What to pack for a Mediterranean Cruise
We hope that our guideline helps you with your packing… have a fantastic trip! #bonvoyage
Click below to download our ‘What to Pack for a Mediterranean Cruise’ checklist:
Passports
That’s right, if your passport is due to expire in 6 months, it may not be valid. You can learn more here: https://www.vfsglobal.com/en/individuals/insights/six-month-validity-rule-explained.html
Different countries have different rules in terms of the number of blank pages required in your passport.
The South African Department of Home Affairs states that:
Passports must be valid for at least 30 days after the intended date of departure. Passports should also have at least two blank pages for entry stamps. The blank pages cannot include the “endorsement” page at the back of the book. If you need a visa, you must ensure that your passport has two blank-facing pages – one for the visa and one for an entry stamp.
Driving License
If the need arises, you’ll be prepared for driving when on-shore. You might not know it, but many countries recognize a South African driver’s license.
According to a Business Tech article, it is still advisable to obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP) before travelling abroad if you plan to drive.
Travel Documents
Your cruise will typically not just be about boarding and disembarking the cruise ship. There may also be flights, transfers and accommodation as a part of your trip. Make sure you have all your booking confirmations, receipts, and other documents at hand, preferably not buried at the bottom of your backpack.
Travel Document Top tips:
- Keep a travel wallet with your passports and other identity docs, together with all other bookings, in an easy-to-reach compartment of your primary travel bag.
- Keep digital copies of all of these documents as a backup.
Travel Insurance Paperwork
Policy Document: The main contract or agreement which outlines the terms, conditions, and coverage of your insurance.
Proof of Coverage: A certificate or summary that proves you have travel insurance. This might include your policy number, travel dates, and details of what’s covered.
Claim Forms: If something goes wrong and you need to file a claim (e.g., for lost luggage or a medical emergency), you may need to submit claim forms, along with receipts and other supporting documents.
Emergency Contacts:
- Important numbers or contact details for the insurance company in case you need assistance while travelling.
- This can also include information on medication you are allergic to or medical conditions.
Medication
Script (Prescription): A copy of your doctor’s prescription for any medication you’re carrying. This can help prove that the medication is legally prescribed to you, which is especially important if you travel internationally to the Mediterranean.
Doctor’s Note: A note from your doctor that explains why you’re taking the medication. This can be useful if you need to explain your need for certain medications, especially if you’re travelling to countries with strict rules on medications or if you need to carry medication that may raise questions at security checks.
Take a little extra, just in case. See here on more information: https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/page/travel-abroad-with-medicine
Spending Money
Policy Document: The main contract or agreement which outlines the terms, conditions, and coverage of your insurance.
Proof of Coverage: A certificate or summary that proves you have travel insurance. This might include your policy number, travel dates, and details of what’s covered.
Claim Forms: If something goes wrong and you need to file a claim (e.g., for lost luggage or a medical emergency), you may need to submit claim forms, along with receipts and other supporting documents.
Emergency Contacts:
- Important numbers or contact details for the insurance company in case you need assistance while travelling.
- This can also include information on medication you are allergic to or medical conditions.
First Aid Kit
Even though cruise ships do have medical staff and basic first aid supplies, it’s a good idea to bring your own small first aid kit for a few reasons:
- Personal Preference: You might have a specific brand or type of medication that works best for you, like a certain painkiller or allergy medicine that you know works well for you.
- Convenience: If you get a headache, scrape your knee, or need something quick, it’s nice to have what you need on hand without having to wait or search for help on the ship.
- Basic Supplies: Cruise ships might not have all the small things you need, like plasters, travel sickness tablets, or your favourite cream. Having these things with you makes life a lot easier.
- Cost: If you need a little treatment, like a bandage or some over-the-counter medicine, it could end up being more expensive to get it from the ship’s medical centre.
Accessories you’ll need on a Mediterranean Cruise
- Sunglasses: Protect your eyes and add some style, especially when on deck.
- Cap or Sunhat: Keep your face and neck safe from the sun – plus, they’re great for bad hair days.
- Backpack or Tote Bag: Perfect for carrying sunscreen, water, and souvenirs while exploring.
- Umbrella: You never know when rain might pop up, and it’s also good for extra sun protection.
- Camera: Capture all those beautiful moments and memories you’ll want to look back on. Sometimes we need that extra zoom that a mobile phone just doesn’t quite provide.
Toiletries
Bring your everyday basics: deodorant, shampoo, conditioner, lotion, and toothpaste. Sure, the ship might have some, but it’s always nicer to use what you’re used to.
- Insect repellent: Some ports (and evenings on deck) can come with pesky bugs — better safe than itchy.
- Sunscreen (SPF): You’ll be in the sun a lot, so pack a good sunscreen to protect your skin.
- After-sun: Just in case you overdo the sun a bit, this will help soothe and calm your skin.
- Lip balm with SPF: Your lips need sun protection, too — they dry out easily in the sun and sea breeze.
- Motion-sickness pills: Again, just in case. Better to be prepared than sorry.
Reminder: if you’re flying to your embarkation port or from your disembarkation port, anything liquid or creamy in your hand luggage needs to be 100ml or less and fit in a clear plastic bag.
General:
- Device chargers: Don’t forget chargers for your devices, and do a little homework on the plug situation. South African plugs might not work on the ship, so check if you need a plug adaptor. It’s one of those small things that can save a lot of frustration.
- Zip-lock bags: These are lifesavers for keeping toiletries from leaking into your luggage. Plus, they’re handy for snacks and small items.
- Casual clothes: You’ll want comfy, relaxed outfits for lazy sea days, exploring the ship, and port visits. Think light and breezy.
- Comfortable walking shoes: You might not expect it, but cruise ships are huge, and you’ll do a lot of walking. Plus, when you’re off exploring, your feet will thank you for choosing comfort.
- Swimsuit & swim cover-ups: Whether you’re sunbathing by the pool or heading off on a beach excursion, pack your swimsuit and an easy cover-up to throw on.
- Sweater or light jacket: The Mediterranean can surprise you with a cool breeze at night or in the early mornings. A light jacket or sweater that matches most outfits will keep you cosy without weighing down your luggage.
- Scarf, sarong, or pashmina: These are super versatile, they add a little warmth, dress up a simple outfit, and are perfect for covering your shoulders when visiting churches or ancient sites.
- Evening attire & shoes: Cruises love their dress-up evenings! After a day out at sea, there’s something special about dressing up for dinner and enjoying good food and even better company. Bring something elegant but comfortable, and don’t forget shoes to match.
Top tip: if you’re wondering what to pack for a Mediterranean cruise, keep it light by picking pieces that can mix and match easily.
We hope that our guideline helps you with your packing… have a fantastic trip! #bonvoyage
- Your day-to-day essentials (Deodorant, lotion, shampoo & conditioner, etc.)
- Insect repellent
- Sunscreen (SPF)
- After sun
- Lip balm (with an SPF)
