Packing Preparation for European River Travel

Packing to travel on European rivers is very much like packing for any other vacation, with the difference that it will probably be the only real stress that you will have associated with your vacation, as ricer trips in Europe are really smooth and confortable. The only thing that you will need to keep in mind is that there will be some suggested dress codes, depending on how luxurious the trip will be, so you should bring a couple of elegant dresses with you. The cruising company will be able to tell you exactly what is needed. You should also speak to the travel agent about dress code, to be sure to have the right things so that you will then be able to concentrate on enjoying the trip.

Ideally, you should favor soft luggage (like a duffel bag) to hardcase luggage, but you can also use rigid luggage. On the bigger European river cruise ships, your bags may not be delivered to your cabin until after dinner the first night, so it's a good idea to put some formal clothes in your day bag so that you will have the right things to wear for dinner the first night. Generally speaking it is always a good idea to pack a change of clothes in your carry-on, in case that your luggage is delayed on the inbound flight. Never pack your passport, visa, license, medications, cruise documents or airline tickets in checked luggage.

Of course there are lots of assorted items that are handy to have along, including but not limited to the following: power strip and extension cord they could really come in handy. Foldable clothes hangers are also good, as there never seem to be enough onboard. Large Ziploc bags are very useful to store things, and also to pack wet clothing at the end of the trip without making everything else in your bag wet.

A small umbrella is also useful, and so are some light waterproofs. Depending on the season, you may need sunscreen and a hat. A good pair of rubber-soled sandals or sneakers to wear on deck is very useful, and you should also bring of your favorite pair of light hiking shoes. Swimwear is also a must, and don't forget your camera and possibly a pair of binoculars.

Your ship may have a laundry room where you can wash your own clothes and you should ask the cruise line if this is the case as laundry will mean that you can travel lighter, especially on longer cruises. Since lots of airlines charge steep excess baggage fees, it makes sense to travel light and avoid bringing lots of superfluous items. Smaller luggage always makes vacations more pleasant, and this applies to European river travel too.