Planning to go on a Mediterranean cruise this summer? Below, you’ll find some useful tips on what to pack for your Mediterranean cruise. I’m sharing my Mediterranean cruise packing list that you can download for free as a PDF printable packing list. It’s a helpful checklist so you don’t forget any essential items while packing for your cruise.
What to Pack for Your Summer Mediterranean Cruise
Summer is a great time to go on a Mediterranean cruise. During the day, the temperature usually reaches mid to high 80s°F, while night brings it down to the low 70s°F. However, be prepared for heat waves, so make sure to pack outfits for extreme hot weather.
You’ll also need outfits for the cruise ship. You might need a wrap to keep you comfortable in the cruise ship’s air conditioning. As well as some smart casual outfits for dinner.
When planning your outfits for shore excursions, keep in mind that mosques and churches have a dress code that visitors must follow. They will require conservative attire that covers the shoulders, knees, and sometimes the head. To make sure you comply with these rules and show respect for the places of worship, pack items such as scarves, shawls, or cardigans.
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Summer Mediterranean Cruise Packing List
1. Pants and Shorts
Pack a few pairs of comfortable pants and shorts that are easy to mix and match. Jeans, khakis, and capris are great. Pants will come in handy for visiting places that require modest attire.
2. Shirts
Pack a variety of shirts that suit different occasions such as T-shirts, polo shirts, button-down shirts, or blouses.
3. Sweatshirts and/or Sweaters
Pack cardigans, sweatshirts or sweaters to keep you cozy on the ship.
4. Dresses
Pack sundresses for your Mediterranean cruise. I also like to pack skorts with pockets, they are comfortable and easy for a cruise vacation.
5. Underwear
Pack extra underwear because you might change a few times in one day if you swim. I always add extra. For example, if you are going on a seven-day Mediterranean cruise, bring 10 underwear.
6. Socks
Pack extra socks just in case. You will need socks when you visit mosques such as the Blue Mosques and Hagia Sophia in Turkey since they will require you to take off your shoes.
7. Hats or Baseball Caps
Pack a hat or baseball cap that can protect you from the sun. You’ll probably be doing a lot of sightseeing outdoors, the sun can get intense in the Mediterranean!
8. Gym Clothes with Sneakers
I always forget to pack gym clothes whenever I go on a cruise. Then I end up wishing I had brought them. They are perfect for staying active on sea days or just lounging around the ship, even if you don’t plan on exercising.
9. Pajamas
Pack some pajamas that are cozy and comfortable.
10. Flip Flops
Pack a pair of flip flops, you will need them when you go to the pool. It also doubles as slippers when you are in your cabin.
11. Bathing Suit and Swim Goggles
You should bring bathing suits and swim goggles to your summer Mediterranean cruise. You will probably want to take a dip in the pool during one of the sea days. Bring an extra bathing suit just in case!
12. Swim Cover Up
Pack a swim cover-up. It’s especially useful when you are at the pool and just want to go to the buffet to grab a quick bite, you can easily put on the swim coverup. I like this swim cover up, it provides enough coverage and comes in many fun prints.
13. Walking Shoes
You will be doing a lot of walking when you go on a Mediterranean cruise. Definitely bring comfortable walking shoes for exploring cities and when you go on shore excursions exploring ruins. I suggest bringing stylish but comfortable walking shoes.
14. Eveningwear
When going on a Mediterranean cruise, you may want to consider dressing up for evening dinners, such as the captain’s dinner, the gala night, or the farewell party. While the dress code is usually optional, it’s always nice to look your best.
Also, there are usually many photographers on board, so it’s a good idea to be dressed up for those special moments. Taking a family photo during the cruise is a great way to capture memories without having to pay for an expensive studio back home.
15. Evening Bag or Clutch Bag
Pack an evening bag or a clutch bag that will go with your evening wear. I personally like clutch bags with wrist straps so I can keep my hands free especially when I’m at the buffet.
16. Shawl/Pashmina
A shawl or a pashmina is a handy item to pack for your Mediterranean cruise. You can use it to keep warm in the air-conditioned dining rooms when you wear a dress. You can also use it to cover your head when you visit mosques in Turkey, where conservative dress is required. A shawl or a pashmina is a versatile and stylish accessory for your trip.
17. Dressy shoes
Pack a pair of dressy shoes that match your evening wear. Make sure it’s comfortable because that’s your only dressy pair!
18. Mesh Laundry Bag
Pack a mesh laundry bag that can help you organize your dirty clothes.
19. Umbrella
Pack a small and compact umbrella that can fit in your bag. Trust me, you will be glad you have an umbrella for when it rains while you are out sightseeing.
20. Sunglasses
Don’t forget your sunglasses! It’s a must-bring for Mediterranean cruises.
21. European Plug Adapter
A European plug adapter is a useful item for your Mediterranean cruise. Depending on the cruise ship, you may or may not need one on board. However, if you are staying in a European hotel before or after your cruise, you will definitely need one.
Most European countries use the Type C plug with two round pins, but some have different types. A universal plug adapter that works with most outlets is a good option to bring.
22. External Battery Packs
Pack a few external battery packs that can charge your devices and that can last for a long time. I like these external battery packs because they have a built-in flashlight.
23. Chargers
Don’t forget to pack the chargers for your phone and other electronic devices!
24. Electronics (iPads, Kindles)
Don’t forget your devices to keep you and your family entertained – such as iPad, Switch, or Kindles. You will have some downtime during the cruise, especially on sea days, and you may want to use your devices. I recommend downloading movies and games at home before you board the ship to avoid using your internet data or paying for a subscription on the ship.
25. Travel Coffee Mug
A travel coffee mug that can keep your drink hot or cold is a must-have for your cruise. I recommend these 20 oz insulated mugs with lids. It’s so convenient to have it with me all day on sea days. You’ll thank me later when you don’t have to go to the buffet every time you need water.
26. Refillable water bottles
When you go on a Mediterranean cruise, it’s a good idea to bring refillable water bottles with you. Most cruise ships will not provide complimentary water in your cabin, so you would have to purchase bottled water from the cruise line or use the buffet.
To save some money, I like to fill up my water bottles with water and ice and take them to my cabin. I also do the same thing when I go ashore. I suggest bringing insulated water bottles without straws. That way you don’t have to deal with washing straws!
27. Bug Spray
Bring bug spray that fits in your bag and keeps insects away. Some cities are surprisingly infested with mosquitoes, such as Venice. You don’t want to get bitten there!
28. Sunblock
Pack some sunblock that can protect your skin and that can fit in your bag. I like to pack at least a 50 SPF sunblock. I usually bring a sunblock stick for the face and cream for the body.
29. Tote Bag or Backpack
Pack a tote bag or backpack for when you go on shore excursions. It will come in handy to put drinks and snacks when you’re out sightseeing.
30. Resealable Plastic Bag (Ziploc)
Pack some resealable plastic bags or Ziploc. It will come in handy to store snacks.
31. Beach Chair Towel Clips
I always bring my own beach chair towel clips to secure my towel to the beach chair so it doesn’t fall off or get blown away. It’s a pet peeve of mine to lie down on a beach chair where the towel has slipped off. I like these fun beach chair towel clips.
32. Lip Balm with SPF
Pack a lip balm with SPF that can moisturize your lips and prevent sunburned lips.
33. Lanyard
Pack a lanyard to hold your cruise card. Trust me, you will wish you had a lanyard because you need your cruise card for everything- getting on and off the ship, buying in the gift shop, and getting into your cabin. It’s a hassle to have to rummage in your bag to find your cruise card.
Do know that some ships will have wristbands (kind of like the Disney MagicBand) or at Princess Cruise they have medallions, so you don’t need lanyards.
34. Walkie Talkie
If you are traveling with family or a big group, it’s nice to have a way to communicate with each other onboard. Cellphone service is poor, and internet service is expensive. Bringing a long range walkie talkie is an easy way to stay in touch, and it can be a lot of fun for kids to use on the cruise ship.
35. Binoculars with strap
I always pack binoculars when I go on cruises. It’s fun to use on the balcony. Definitely get one that is compact, lightweight and with a strap.
36. Mosquito Bite Ointment
Pack some mosquito bite ointment, it will come in handy if you get bit by mosquitoes. I’m prone to mosquito bites so I will always have it in my bag. I like these mosquito bite ointments that come in a roller so you can easily apply it on your bug bite!
37. Seasick Medicine
Years ago, cruise ships used to give out seasick medicine freely. Now, I find that is not the case. It’s best to bring your own seasick medicine (unless you want to have to buy them at the Cruise ship gift shop!) If you are cruising with kids, you should bring seasick medicine for kids– they are chewable and the dosage is meant for children.
38. Cross Body Bag with zipper
When going on a Mediterranean cruise, it’s smart to bring a cross body bag to keep your valuables secure. Europe is notorious for pickpocketing, so you need to be vigilant while sightseeing. A cross body bag is a more practical option than a shoulder bag since it stays close to your body and doesn’t slip off.
Look for one with a zipper to ensure your belongings are safe and sound. Personally, I always travel with a slash-proof cross body bag since it’s a common tactic for thieves to slash bags to steal wallets.
39. 1 Bottle of Wine (check cruise policy)
Most cruise lines allow passengers to bring wine on the ship when they board. You are allowed to bring one 750 ml unopened bottle of wine or champagne per person (some cruise lines will allow 2 bottles per adult). Do keep in mind that it only applies to wine brought onboard on the first day, any alcohol that you buy ashore will be taken and kept until the end of the cruise. Double-check with your cruise line before you bring wine.
40. Cash (small bills)
Pack some cash in small bills. It will come in handy for tipping. Of course, you can always get change from the guest services desk. But if you bring your own, you will avoid the long lines at Guest Services.
41. Travel Documents (Passport/Tickets)
Don’t forget your passport and tickets and other Identification for travel. Make sure you check that your passport is not expired or within 6 months of expiration because you may be denied boarding!
42. Photocopy of Passport/Cards
Pickpocketing is a common problem in Europe, so you should pack photocopies of your passport and your credit cards as a backup. If your wallet gets stolen, you can call the credit card companies to cancel the card and report the theft. You can also go to your consulate to report the loss of your passport, which will be easier if you have a photocopy of it.
43. Toothbrush, Toothpaste and Comb/Hairbrush
Don’t forget your toothbrush, toothpaste and comb/hairbrush, they don’t provide this on the cruise ship. You will have to buy it from the cruise gift shop if you forget to bring yours. If you use an electric toothbrush, don’t forget the charger!
44. Moisturizers and Face soap
Pack moisturizers, face cream and face soap. You don’t want to break your daily routine just because you are traveling.
45. Shampoo/Conditioner (if you like to use your own)
This is optional. You don’t need to pack shampoo, conditioner, or body wash for the cruise ship, as they usually provide them in the shower dispensers. However, if you are picky about your hair products, like me, you may want to bring your own shampoo and conditioner.
46. Medication
Don’t forget to pack your medication. Bring some over-the-counter meds for allergies and pain relief. If you take prescription medicine, bring extra in case of emergencies. You never know when you might get stranded due to a flight cancellation or a strike, which are common in some European airports, especially in France. I’ve gotten stuck in France many times because of strikes! Check out my article for a complete list of what to pack in your Cruise Toiletry and First Aid Kit (includes a free packing list).
47. Lysol Wipes
I always pack Lysol wipes so I can sanitize my cabin. I like to wipe down the remote control, cabin phone, door knobs and more!
48. Hand Sanitizer
Hand sanitizer is a useful item to pack for your Mediterranean cruise. Even though the ship has many sanitizing stations, you will need your own when you explore the sights.
49. Waterproof phone case
To protect your phone from water and sand, use a waterproof phone case that has a touch screen. It will come in handy when you spend the day at the pool.
1 Week Mediterranean Cruise Wardrobe for Women
Here is an example of what to pack on a 7-day Mediterranean Cruise for women
- 10 pairs of underwear
- 7 pairs of socks
- 4 pairs of shorts and/or skorts
- 7 t-shirts/blouse/button down shirts
- 2 pairs of jeans or capris
- 1 pair of leggings (for the gym or sea days)
- 1 sweater or cardigan or sweatshirt
- 1 blazer
- 3 sleepwear/pjs
- 2 dresses
- 1 pair of dress shoes
- 1 pair of sneakers (for working out at the gym)
- 1 pair of very comfortable walking shoes (stylish, not sneakers)
- 1 pair of flip flops
- 1 bathing suit
- 1 swim cover-up
- 1 hat or baseball cap
- 1 shawl or pashmina
- 1 evening bag or clutch bag
1 Week Mediterranean Cruise Wardrobe for Men
Here is an example of what to pack for a 7 day Mediterranean Cruise for men
- 10 pairs of underwear
- 7 pairs of socks
- 8 t-shirts/polo shirts/button down shirts
- 4 pairs of jeans/khaki pants
- 2 pairs of shorts
- 1 pair of gym shorts for the gym or sea days
- 1 sweater or sweatshirt
- 3 sleepwear/PJs
- 1 blazer or jacket
- 1 dress pants (match with blazers)
- 2 dress shirts
- 1 ties, belts and cufflinks
- 1 pair of dress shoes
- 1 pair of sneakers (for gym)
- 1 pair of very comfortable walking shoes
- 1 pair of flip flops
- 1 bathing suit
- 1 hat or baseball cap
What to Pack in Your Mediterranean Cruise Carry-On Bag
It’s important to bring a carry-on bag with you on your Mediterranean Cruise. I recommend using a small roller luggage that can fit in the overhead compartment on airplanes as your carry-on bag. This is because your checked luggage won’t be delivered to your stateroom right away on the first day of the cruise.
It will take a few hours for your luggage to arrive, so make sure to pack your first day essentials in your carry-on bag. Here are a few items that you should pack in your carry-on bag.
Medication
Definitely bring your medication in your carry-on bag. Bring your prescription medication and OTC meds. My son is allergic to peanuts and I always pack his epipen and allergy medication in the carry-on bag.
Book, Electronics and Toys
There will be some downtime on the first day. If you are cruising with kids, you will need electronics and toys to keep them entertained. I like to bring my book with me just in case.
Toiletry Bag
I always pack my toiletry bag in my carry on so I have access to my face soap if I want to freshen up.
Lysol Wipes
I like to sanitize my cabin the moment I get in, so I always keep a pack of lysol wipes in my carry on bag.
Bathing Suit
Pack your bathing suit in your carry-on bag, in case you want to swim the first day. I know my kids usually want to jump in the pool on the first day so I always pack their bathing suits.
Swim Goggles
Don’t forget the swim goggles!
Sunblock
You will need sunblock if you are planning to swim on the first day.
Free Printable: Mediterranean Cruise Packing List
Get your free Mediterranean cruise packing list. Download our free 4-page PDF printable, one packing list per season. It will come in handy when you are packing for your Mediterranean cruise!
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