DID YOU KNOW - Because of fire safety regulations, cruise ships don’t provide irons in staterooms (cabins) or allow you to bring travel irons or steamers.

Ships usually have self-service laundry rooms with irons for passengers to use but these work on timers and there may be only one or two for the entire ship. So choose wrinkle-resistant fabrics - this is where stretch jersey fabrics come into their own! With 4 way stretch and excellent recovery, they're wrinkle free and don't require ironing.

CRUISE FASHION TIP #1: Use a hard shell suitcase when packing for your holiday, especially if you’re flying to your embarkation city. Softer shell cases compress under pressure, like the pressure of hundreds of kilos of other people’s luggage in the baggage hold! A suitcase with a solid case will ensure that extra weight does not crush the clothing inside.

Just like when checking into hotels, cruise ship cabins or staterooms, aren’t usually ready for you to access until mid-afternoon and checked luggage might take a while longer to arrive. So think about your outfit with any activities you may want to enjoy on embarkation day in mind. 

For example, if you'll be wanting to hit the pool or spa, it’s a good idea to have your swimsuit handy. There will be changing areas accessible in public areas but you might want to consider wearing your swimwear under your clothes. 

CRUISE FASHION TIP #3: As your stateroom might not be available until later in the day, take a waterproof bag and a change of underwear in your embarkation day carry-on bag for when you’re ready to change out of your wet swimsuit.

Depending on the duration of your cruise holiday, there'll be at least one or two days where you'll be at sea all day. This will be when you get to really indulge in all of the on-board facilities and activities available. Consequently, these will be your most casual days, dress wise.

A swimsuit and pool slides are essential. Be sure to pack two bathing suits, one to wear while the other is drying. Cruise ships tend to have a 'shoes and shirt required' dress code when passengers are not on deck and by the pool so have a cover-up and slip-on shoes handy to move about the boat in, and casual clothing options to wear for activities, shopping and dining.

Keep your port stops front of mind when packing for your cruise holiday. Be sure to have destination-appropriate clothing so you can make the most all the sightseeing opportunities on offer.

Offering both casual and formal dining options, you can pick and choose how dressy you want your cruise evenings to be. Typically cocktail dress codes are as formal as most cruise ships get but it is worthwhile checking the requirements of the dining rooms on board before you leave to ensure you're keeping all your options open!