What to Pack for a River Cruise in Europe: Your Ultimate Guide

It’s worth thinking carefully about what to pack for a river cruise, especially with Europe’s varied and unpredictable climate. River cruises tend to be relaxed, with a focus on comfort and smart-casual clothes (see my blog about what to wear). Here’s a list of suggested items to ensure you are well-prepared for your river cruise adventure.

Essential documents and travel items

Passport and travel documents: make sure that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your return date and check entry requirements for the countries that you will be visiting
Travel insurance information: carry printed or digital copies of your policy in case of emergencies
Tickets and itinerary: keep a copy of your reservation details easily accessible
Currency and credit cards: bring some local currency and a credit card
Travel bag: use this for secure storage of all travel essentials, including tickets and identification (I usually use a crossbody bag).

Clothing

Find out more in my blog What to Wear on a River Cruise in Europe

Daytime wear

Comfortable tops and bottoms: pack breathable fabrics like cotton or linen for warm days
Layering pieces: light jumpers, cardigans, or jackets help adjust to changing temperatures
Comfortable shoes: light walking shoes, trainers or supportive sandals are ideal for shore excursions and comfortable shoes to wear around the ship
Sun protection (depending on the time of year): a hat and sunglasses are essential

Evening wear

Smart-casual outfits: for onboard dinners and events See my blog for more about dress codes on various river cruise lines) I usually pack a few things that can be mixed and matched.
Shoes: a comfortable pair of shoes that match all evening outfits

Weather-specific clothes

Rain jacket: be prepared for unexpected showers with a lightweight rain jacket
Warm layers: a fleece or warm jacket is useful during cooler months and for evening excursions. I was glad of a warm coat for evenings on deck.

Toiletries and personal care

Travel-sized toiletries: bring your favourite shampoo, conditioner, and body wash (though many ships provide these)
Skincare essentials: include sunscreen, moisturiser, and lip balm for protection against sun and wind
First aid kit: carry basic medications, pain relief, and any personal prescriptions
Insect repellent: this can be important if your itinerary includes nature-focused excursions

Tech and gadgets

Smartphone: for taking photos, navigating maps, and staying connected
Portable power bank: keep devices charged while on excursions
Camera and accessories: if you own one and want higher-quality photos
Travel adapter and converter: the plug types available vary on different ships – I take a worldwide adaptor so that I am always covered
Headphones: useful for entertainment and guided tours
Chargers for your equipment – my worldwide adaptor also has USB ports, which is very handy for charging

Other items to consider

Small backpack: use this for excursions and day trips
Reusable water bottle: stay hydrated while exploring
Binoculars: great for spotting wildlife and enjoying scenic views along the river
Reading material: a book or e-reader can be a relaxing companion during downtime
Notebook: document your travels and memorable experiences
Swimsuit: pack one if the ship has a pool, hot tub, or spa
Activewear: bring workout clothes if you plan to use the onboard gym or take part in active shore excursions. Some river cruise lines offer exercise classes.
Small laundry bag: keep your used clothing separate and organised
Collapsible tote bag: keep in your rucksack – handy for shopping opportunities
Packing cubes: use these to organise your belongings and maximise suitcase space
Travel laundry supplies: a small bottle of travel wash so that you can hand wash if you want to – most ships offer a laundry service
Comfortable walking shoes: as you’ll be exploring cities and historic sites, supportive footwear is a must
Layers: since European weather can be unpredictable, pack clothing that can be layered works really well