You should make sure you have a wide array of clothing packed away in your suitcase, as cruises may require everything from a casual swimsuit to a formal tuxedo. Princess Cruises is smart casual, so pack clothing that adheres to that guideline.

Princess Cruises maintains a dress code that is best described as "relaxed traditional," meaning it is not as strict as ultra-luxury lines like Cunard, but it still honors the "event" of evening dining. During the day, the vibe is "Resort Casual," where shorts, sundresses, and jeans are perfectly acceptable in all areas. In the evenings, the code usually shifts to "Smart Casual" for the main dining rooms and specialty restaurants; this typically means no swimwear, flip-flops, or gym wear. Men often wear slacks and a polo or button-down, while women wear skirts or tailored trousers. The "strictness" mostly applies to Formal Nights (usually 1 or 2 per week). On these nights, many passengers still choose to wear tuxedos or evening gowns, but the official policy has softened to allow dark suits or even just a blazer and tie. If you prefer to stay in your casual clothes on a formal night, you are free to do so, but you will be restricted to the Horizon Court buffet or other casual dining venues rather than the main formal dining rooms. Princess strikes a balance that allows for traditionalists to dress up without making modern travelers feel uncomfortable.