Planning what to pack for your cruise can feel overwhelming, especially when it comes to navigating dress codes and cruise etiquette. While cruises have become more casual over the years, there are still some unspoken rules and official policies you’ll want to follow to avoid awkward situations both onboard and in port.
I’ve gathered insights from our Facebook community (with over 700 comments!) plus years of cruising experience to bring you this practical guide. Remember, I’m not the fashion police, so take these suggestions with a grain of salt and ultimately do what makes you comfortable.
Prints and Patterns to Avoid
Camouflage Clothing
Here’s something many cruisers may not realize: camouflage clothing can be illegal in some countries. You could face fines or even arrest for wearing camo patterns in certain destinations. Even some cruise line websites specifically mention this restriction.
While you can pack camouflage items to wear onboard, never wear them when going ashore. It’s simply not worth the risk of legal trouble during your vacation.
Upside Down Pineapples
This might sound odd, but avoid clothing with upside-down pineapples on it. There’s a specific lifestyle meaning behind this symbol that you probably don’t want to accidentally advertise.
To be safe, I’d suggest avoiding pineapple prints altogether unless you’re aware of and comfortable with the potential implications.
Related: What Do Upside Down Pineapples Mean on a Cruise? Everything Cruisers Need to Know
Swimwear Guidelines
Know Your Cruise Line
Different cruise lines attract different crowds. Disney Cruise Line maintains a family-friendly atmosphere, while Virgin Voyages has a more adult-oriented vibe. Swimwear that’s perfectly acceptable on one line might not be appropriate on another.
Styles have evolved significantly over the past decade, so what might have seemed inappropriate years ago could now be completely normal. When in doubt, observe what others are wearing and use your best judgment.
Pool Deck Etiquette
The most important swimwear rule? Always wear a cover-up when leaving the pool deck. This is especially crucial when entering the buffet or any indoor dining areas. Crew members can and will enforce this rule.
Never enter the buffet dripping wet in just your swimsuit. It’s potentially embarrassing and you’ll likely be turned away. Take a moment to dry off and put on a proper cover-up.
Footwear is mandatory inside the ship. You cannot go barefoot into the buffet or any interior areas. Pack some flip-flops or water shoes specifically for transitioning from the pool to the dining areas.
Related: 12 Things to Never Do on a Cruise Ship Lido Deck
Evening Dining Restrictions
Swimwear is absolutely forbidden in the main dining room and specialty restaurants during evening hours. I’ve heard from crew members about guests being turned away for wearing bikinis with mesh cover-ups to dinner.
I’ve also read about guests being politely asked to return to their cabins and change when showing up to exclusive areas, such as MSC’s Yacht Club, in bathrobes. The dress code becomes stricter as the day progresses.
Inappropriate Casual Wear
Bathrobes
While those fluffy cruise ship bathrobes are perfect for enjoying room service on your balcony, they’re considered poor etiquette in public areas. You’ll attract unwanted attention and potentially face embarrassing situations if you wear your bathrobe to the buffet or restaurants.
Slippers and Pajamas
Slippers should stay in your cabin. As for pajamas, opinions vary. I personally believe pajamas belong in your cabin or at themed pajama parties.
However, I make exceptions for young children and understand that teens might wear pajamas late at night when grabbing pizza.
Remember, cruise ships maintain a nice atmosphere, and just like on land, most of us wouldn’t wear pajamas to a restaurant. The same courtesy should apply onboard.
Dress Code Considerations
Strong Fragrances
Many cruisers are sensitive to strong colognes and perfumes, especially in enclosed spaces like elevators. We’ve all experienced being trapped with someone who used a bit too much of their scent. Be considerate of others and apply fragrances lightly.
Shorts and Jeans in Dining Rooms
Several cruise lines prohibit men from wearing shorts in the main dining room. While women sometimes get away with wearing nice shorts, men are more likely to be called out for violating this dress code.
The good news about jeans? Most cruise lines now allow nice jeans in dining rooms, even on formal nights. This policy has undergone significant relaxation over the past few years.
If you want to avoid dress codes entirely, consider Norwegian Cruise Line or Virgin Voyages, which have the most relaxed policies.
Formal Night Flexibility
Formal nights have become much less strict than they used to be. I adjust my formal wear based on the cruise line I’m sailing with. Princess Cruises tends to be more formal, while other lines are more relaxed.
Outside of Cunard (which maintains traditional formal requirements), most cruise lines won’t strictly police dress codes. However, participating in formal nights can enhance your cruise experience and make for great photos.
Essential Items to Pack
Men’s Basics
Every man should pack at least one pair of pants and a collared shirt, even on casual cruise lines like Norwegian. Some specialty restaurants require collared shirts and long pants, and this simple combination will ensure you’re never turned away from any venue.
A golf-style polo shirt and nice jeans will meet most specialty restaurant requirements and keep you comfortable.
Closed-Toe Shoes
Everyone should pack at least one pair of closed-toe shoes or sneakers. Many ship activities and shore excursions require proper footwear for safety reasons.
This is especially important for kids, who might otherwise miss out on certain games and activities.
Comfortable Footwear
I learned this lesson the hard way: never pack uncomfortable shoes, thinking you’ll tough it out. I once brought beautiful but painful shoes on a cruise, wore them for two hours at dinner, then never wore them again.
Test your shoes before packing them, or you’ll end up barefoot in your cabin while everyone else enjoys the evening.
Items to Leave at Home
Offensive Clothing
Even casual cruise lines have policies against clothing with profanity or intentionally offensive messages. Crew members can ask you to change if your clothing violates these policies.
Political messages are particularly risky in today’s climate. You’re on vacation with people from all walks of life, so why risk getting into arguments when you could be relaxing instead?
Baseball Caps in Dining Areas
Many cruise lines prohibit baseball caps in dining rooms and specialty restaurants, especially during evening hours. While some people still wear them without consequence, it’s better to err on the side of respect for the dress code.
Flashy Jewelry in Ports
This is purely about safety: never wear expensive or flashy jewelry when going ashore. I’ve witnessed guests having gold chains ripped right off their necks in port. Leave valuable and sentimental jewelry in your cabin safe or a secure location onboard.
Give Others Grace!
While it’s good to follow dress code guidelines, remember that people might have valid reasons for bending the rules. Someone wearing flip-flops in the dining room might have a foot injury, and someone wearing a baseball cap might have a medical condition.
Put away your inner fashion police and focus on enjoying your vacation. A little understanding goes a long way in maintaining the friendly atmosphere we all love on a cruise.
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Final Thoughts on Travel Outfits to Not Wear
The key to cruise dressing success is preparation and respect. Research your specific cruise line’s dress codes, pack accordingly for both onboard and shore activities, and always consider the preferences of your fellow passengers.
For more detailed packing guidance, check out our comprehensive guides on what to wear on different cruise lines and what not to pack for your cruise. With the right preparation, you’ll be dressed appropriately for every occasion and ready to focus on what really matters: having an amazing cruise vacation.
Remember, when in doubt, it’s always better to be slightly overdressed than underdressed. Pack smart, dress respectfully, and most importantly, have fun!
Happy Cruising!
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