Laura Winckler

After helping many travelers prepare for river cruises throughout Europe and beyond, I've found that the biggest challenge isn't forgetting something important. It's bringing too much. If you remember only one thing from this article, remember this: Layers are the key to smart river cruise packing. They allow you to adapt to changing weather, create multiple outfit combinations, and travel with less luggage.

As you start planning for your cruise, you quickly realize you must answer the burning question, "What should I pack?" After helping travelers prepare for luxury ocean cruises, I've found that most people don't struggle because they pack too little. They struggle because they pack too much. The goal isn't to prepare for every possible scenario. The goal is to pack for the cruise you're actually taking.

MSC Yacht Club offers a unique alternative: a “ship within a ship” concept that combines the amenities of a large resort-style vessel with many of the benefits typically associated with luxury cruising. MSC offers year-round sailings from Florida and Galveston, making Yacht Club easily accessible for travelers throughout Florida, Texas and beyond.