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What to Pack for a Barge Cruise – Keep it Light!

You’ve made plans to take a barge cruise! How exciting! The reservations have been made, the dates confirmed and now you need to figure out the really hard part.

What do I pack for my barge cruise? Feel free to download our Suggested Packing List to make it easy.

Because limited space is available on a barge cruise, it helps to choose items you can use more than once. Planning your wardrobe around one or two colors will allow each item to be used in several different ways. A neutral color like black or beige will allow lots of different looks by adding different colored tops.

First decide how casual or dressy you like to be, then adjust what you pack accordingly. Choose 2-3 pairs of pants, jeans or shorts, (depending on the season) and a skirt. With these basic elements, you can add tops, both short sleeve and long, a sweater or blazer, and a variety of scarves, belts or jewelry to change the look.

Be sure to bring a rain coat that can be layered over the sweater for extra warmth if needed. Bring a comfortable pair of walking shoes, some sandals that can double as slippers, and a dressier pair of shoes for evening, preferably with low heels. Add nightwear, a bathing suit, and a sun hat and you will be ready for anything.

Remember to bring small sizes of your toiletries packed in waterproof bags, and perhaps a small collapsible umbrella, a small flashlight, and travel alarm. Don’t forget a converter and plug adapter if you bring your own hairdryer or other small U.S. appliance. Don’t forget your camera with plenty of batteries or the charger (with the adapter plug and converter) and several memory cards.

We highly recommend purchasing a money belt if you don’t already have one. They are worn under your clothing and hold your passport, ATM  and credit cards, large bills, emergency contact information, and irreplaceable tickets.

Packing light is always a good idea, as it’s no fun to haul a heavy suitcase around. With airlines charging for checked baggage and overweight baggage, it’s also a money-saver. Most of us don’t use everything we bring along anyway, so why bring it? That will leave more room for the lovely remembrances we like to buy when we travel.

Do you have more questions about barge cruising? Check out our Frequently Asked Questions or Contact Us for more information.

We can help make your barge cruise one of the most memorable experiences of your life!

Beth Hanson
Barge Cruise Specialist since 1988
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