What to DO?
- The "best" luggage for your cruise is also suitable for many other purposes. Airport and pier baggage handlers are notoriously rough with suitcases, so a top consideration is sturdy luggage. It doesn't have to be top-of-the-line, but it should be well-built to withstand the rigors of conveyors and sorting machines; not to mention being stacked, dropped and thrown through the air. Really! I've seen that take place!.
- Soft-side suitcases are by far the most popular choice. They are lighter in weight, zippers can be secured, almost all have wheels, and some are expandable for additional packing volume
- The soft-side suitcases you are considering should be covered in a tightly woven ballistic nylon for the greatest durability—other fabrics can snag, pill, and tear more easily. None are indestructible, but ballistic nylon (especially Teflon® coated) is judged the best. Frame construction is a premier consideration; it should be strong enough not flex out of shape when the suitcase is fully packed. Corners must be reinforced with rubber bumpers hefty enough to prevent abrasion, which all too often occurs in these vulnerable areas. Wheels and handle assemblies should have the same properties as hard-side cases and a solid "skid plate" between the wheels is beneficial to protect the suitcase fabric from damage when encounters with curbs and escalators are inevitable. Look for self-healing, industrial-grade zippers that move smoothly and have large enough zipper pulls for ease of use. Interiors can include a variety of "wet" bags, pockets, and other organizers, particularly in the lid/door.
- Your cruise documents should include information indicating how many evenings fall into those categories. You'll know when to wear what by reading your ship's daily newsletter—each day's dress code will be prominently announced.
What to AVOID ?
- Business travelers have long favored garment bags for carry on ease and quick wrinkle-free packing. Their bulky favorites are being replaced these days by garment bags on wheels that are virtually rolling closets with multiple pockets and organizers for folded items, shoes, and even toiletries. Look for the same construction qualities as any soft-side suitcase. These bags hold a LOT and are not sized for carrying on aircraft, however.
- Evening casual does not mean shorts. For men it's Dockers-type slacks and nice polo or sport shirts. Ladies' outfits will be sporty dresses, skirts and tops, or pants outfits. By sticking to two colors and a few accessories, you can mix up tops and bottoms for a different look every night.
- Wear Jeans some cruise lines discourage them in the dining room. Use your own judgment and keep in mind, denim is hot—you might want to wear a lighter fabric.
- Informal for women is a dressier dress or pants outfit and for men it always includes a sport coat. Often, but not always, it also means a tie for him. Check your documents carefully.
- Formal night is Fantasyland for women and torture for men... from the sounds of male complaints, that is.
- After deciding to go all out, whether to buy or rent a tuxedo is up to the individual. As a rule of thumb, if a man is going to wear a tuxedo more than two or three times, it makes economic sense to purchase one. Most cruise lines make it easy to rent the entire outfit, though—and if you do so, it will be waiting for you when you board. Be sure to make these arrangements in plenty of time—your travel agent can get the details from the cruise line.
- A "tuxedo" is a rented suit and a "dinner jacket" is the formal clothing owned by the gentleman wearing it. Whatever the definition or terms of ownership, men look stunning in "black tie."
- Avoid some of the anxiety lost luggage can cause by carrying on your essentials when you board. I always have a garment bag with our formal clothing and at least a couple other casual outfits just in case.