Packing for Virgin Voyages is different from packing for a traditional cruise — no formal nights, themed events instead of gala dinners, and a climate that ranges from Caribbean warm to Alaska cool depending on your itinerary. This guide covers everything you need, nothing you should leave behind, and a few Virgin Voyages-specific items that first-timers consistently wish they had thought of.
The Virgin Voyages-Specific Essentials
- Something red: The single most important Virgin Voyages-specific packing item. Scarlet Night happens on every sailing on every ship. You need at least one red item — from a simple red tee to a full sequined gown. Forgot to pack red? The ship’s High Street boutique on Deck 6 sells Virgin Voyages red items, but selection varies.
- Pajamas or sleepwear: The PJ Party happens on Night 1 of every sailing. Fun pajamas — silk sets, onesies, novelty prints — make it significantly more enjoyable than showing up in gym shorts. These are also genuinely useful for sleeping.
- Pool-friendly Scarlet Night outfit: The Scarlet Night pool party happens after the land-based portion of the evening. If you want to get in the pool during Scarlet Night (you probably do), pack a red swimsuit or a pool-friendly red outfit rather than wearing your best sequined dress.
- Waterproof Band pouch or lanyard: The Band wristband is waterproof, but having a safe pouch for your phone and room key backup while at Bimini Beach Club or pool areas is useful.
Clothing for Caribbean Sailings
- Swimsuits x 2-3 (one dry, one drying)
- Cover-ups and beach dresses for Beach Club days
- Comfortable walking shoes for port days
- Sandals for the ship and beach
- Evening casual for restaurants (Virgin Voyages is not formal but nicer than the pool)
- Light layers for air-conditioned venues (ships run cold indoors)
- Rain jacket or packable windbreaker (for port days and sea days)
- Sun hat, sunscreen, sunglasses
Clothing for Mediterranean Sailings
Add: comfortable walking shoes rated for cobblestones, a lightweight blazer or smart casual jacket for evenings ashore in European cities, and a light scarf for visiting religious sites (shoulders and knees covered at many Greek and Turkish churches and mosques).
Clothing for Alaska Sailings
Alaska requires significantly warmer layers than Caribbean sailings. Add: waterproof outer layer (jacket and pants), mid-layer fleece or down jacket, base layers, warm hat and gloves, and waterproof boots or hiking shoes. Alaska summer temperatures in Southeast Alaska range from the mid-40s to low 70s°F — plan for the cold end.
Tech and Gear
- Phone charger and portable battery pack
- Binoculars (essential for Alaska; nice to have for sea days everywhere)
- Underwater camera or waterproof phone case for Bimini and snorkeling ports
- Power strip with USB ports (cabins have limited outlets; surge-protected strips are typically allowed, UL-certified)
Do NOT Pack
- Formal wear (no formal nights on Virgin Voyages)
- Irons, heated rollers, or any appliance with an exposed heating element (prohibited onboard)
- Coffee makers or kitchen equipment (prohibited)
- Your own alcohol (prohibited — though sealed wine purchased at ports may be allowed; check current policy)
Insider Tips from Joel and Erin
- Pack light on daywear and invest in your themed night outfits. You will wear the same swimsuit and cover-up combination multiple times. Your Scarlet Night outfit, however, is worn exactly once and photographed extensively.
- Bring a tote bag for port days. A lightweight, packable tote works better than a backpack for short port day excursions and Beach Club days.
- Check the entertainment schedule in the app before you pack. Some ships have additional themed nights (Klub Rubiks, We Fancy, Y2K Party) that may call for specific outfit elements beyond red and pajamas.
Ready to Pack?
Joel and Erin are certified First Mates who can help you understand exactly what your specific sailing calls for — Caribbean warm, Mediterranean cultural, or Alaska cold.
Related Reading
- How to Stay Fit on a 7-Night Virgin Voyages Cruise
- Virgin Voyages for Couples: Why Virgin Voyages Is the Best Cruise Line for Two
- PJ Party Outfit Ideas for Virgin Voyages: What to Wear on Night One
- Virgin Voyages App: The Complete Guide to Using It Before and During Your Voyage
Book your Virgin Voyages cruise at CruisePlanner.pro — and pack with confidence for every themed night
