Each year, a small number of cruise ships will depart with a lucky group of cruise passengers for the ultimate voyage: a World Cruise.

Packing for a World Cruise is a lengthy process that you will want to put some thought into because you will be away from home for several months — most World Cruises are 4 months, but 6-month World Cruises are also offered. Our Cruise Specialists experts have been sending and accompanying guests on World Cruises for the past 3 decades and want to share their top tips for what essentials you may need onboard.

1. Interchangeable Outfits. Most world cruise veterans know that having a variety of interchangeable outfits is essential. Pick a few color schemes that allow you to easily mix and match your clothes, and change them up with unique accessories. For formal nights and special occasions, gentlemen will need to bring along their tux and a few suits, while the ladies will want several evening gowns and cocktail dresses.  Don’t forget to pack special attire for festive theme nights on the ship such as Valentine’s Day and St. Patrick’s Day celebrations, and even geographically-oriented theme nights, depending on the various regions you visit. Your Cruise Specialists Cruise Consultant will help you prepare for all of this in advance.

2. Comfortable Excursion Attire and Excursion Accessories. Sturdy walking shoes are a must to take along for all the walking you will do on the ship and on tours in ports.  Other important items include sweaters and jackets, rain gear, and a backpack for taking personal items with you on and off the ship. Depending on the excursion, you may need a bathing suit and cover-up, a sun hat, or even a pair of binoculars. Don’t forget your camera to capture your experiences, and you’ll want to be sure you pack memory sticks to back-up your photos as you go.

3. Extra Supplies. It goes without saying to pack enough prescription medicine to last you throughout your voyage, but you’ll also want extra supplies of any beauty and personal hygiene products you can’t stand to go without for a few months. An extra pair of eyeglasses is always a good idea, and our hosts also recommend taking along a handy pop-up laundry basket, a small bottle of spray and wash for treating clothing stains, a power strip for your electronics, and a flashlight. While your stateroom or suite will have a variety of lighting options (including bedside lights), a flashlight can also come in handy if you plan to stay later in port and you want that extra bit of light to check out a guide book or map.

4. Personal Cabin Decor.  Since the cruise ship will be your home for a while, you will can take items that will make your stateroom feel more like home. A few pictures of loved ones (people or pets) to place near the mirror are always popular. Some travelers like to hang up maps of the different areas of the world they will be traveling to plot their course.

5. A Worthwhile Project.  Plan a meaningful project that you would like to complete while you are on your cruise.  With plenty of down time at sea, you may want to complete a photo album or scrap book, knit a sweater, make some jewelry, write a book or keep a journal. Make sure you have the necessary supplies along to complete your project. Cruise Specialists can also provide recommended reading lists that correspond with the ports you’ll be visiting. It’s just one of the many, often untold, benefits of working with an experienced World Cruise consultant!

Aside from these items, the most important thing to bring along with you on your long journey is your flexible attitude. With it, you will enjoy the world as an engaged traveler rather than a tourist.  Find out more information on upcoming world cruises offered by Cruise Specialists.