Posts Tagged ‘Italy cruise’
What To Pack For a January Mediterranean Cruise?
Even though it is definitely not in the peak season at all but if you are planning a European cruise during the month of January then you had better plan on packing a "mixed bag".
It is true that a winter European cruise will mean more thought and more clothes for packing. In fact, it actually requires more clothes for a winter cruise then it would if you were to fly to Europe in the winter. This is simply because you are going to be on a cruise ship for several days. This means you will be in and out of doors.
Now if you wanted you could certainly remain indoors on your cruise by what would be the fun in that. It most definitely will be winter in Europe during January and you will need some warm clothes. Although temperatures have been known to reach high teens in celcius in January around Italy, southern France and the greek islands, I wouldn’t count on it.
How severe or cold the European med weather will be will depend specifically on what area of southern Europe you will be going. There will most likely be a fluctuation. The first thing you must think about is your wardrobe when aboard the ship. Inside the ship will be no different than as if you were in your home. Your clothing should be the winter clothing styles and other than that, there would be not difference. As we mentioned on occasion you would be going to the decks of the ship so naturally you will want to dress the same as if you were going outdoors in winter at home.
Once you reach your destinations no doubt you are going to utilize your outdoor clothes much more because you will be leaving the ship for different events, and outings. You will need to dress warmly.
Winter packing is a little more difficult because it hard packing bulky clothing. To help cut down on some of the weight you can do a few things. Take light clothes for you and some heavier outer garments like 2 or 3 heavy sweaters, and some heavy type lined pants. You could wear these over dress pants. This way you will not be taking up quite as much suitcase space. You will have the light outfit for indoors, and then simply can put a heavy sweater over this and your heavy coat.
Winter boots can be bulky but may very well be a necessity. Try to pack a pair that is not going to take up a great deal of space. Some of the low cut lined shoes are sufficient for serving the purpose of being a space saver, are warm enough for the outdoors and will pass for shoes.
You may think it odd to suggest you pack a bathing suit. Many cruise ships have indoor pools for you to enjoy. What a wonderful thought to be able to go for a swim in the winter while out in the middle of the ocean.
A cruise vacation on the mediterranean in the winter takes slightly more planning but is well worth the effort.