Thinking about what to pack for a Christmas markets river cruise in Europe? Since river cruise cabins can be small, it’s essential to pack light. The weather during Europe’s festive season can be extreme and highly variable as well. This article provides a detailed cruise packing list to help you prepare for your Christmas markets trip.

River cruise dress codes tend to be rather casual, although evening activities and dress codes vary by cruise line. Review your cruise schedule in advance to see if there are any formal nights. You can also check with your travel advisor or cruise line for additional insights and information.

It’s easy to get in the spirit of the season on a Christmas markets river cruise. Holiday shopping at the Christmas markets is one of the main attractions for these theme cruises, so it’s important to plan accordingly. Experienced holiday river cruisers generally pack a folding duffle bag or two to transport their gifts home. Items sold are often fragile, so bring some bubble wrap for packing them.

Some stores, such as the popular Kathe Wohlfahrt boutiques, will ship items home for customers. Some Christmas markets river cruise guests also take their well-packed items to city post offices to send them home. Concierges and cruise directors can often provide directions.

River cruise ship staterooms are generally relatively small, so try not to over pack. Bring comfortable clothes that you can layer for warmth. It’s wise to pack a carry-on bag containing your first day’s clothing, travel documents, passport, credit cards, cash, medications, extra glasses, any valuable jewelry and anything else critical to enjoying your cruise. This way, your essential items will stay with you in case your luggage is lost or delayed. It’s also smart to pack some winter gear in your carry-on luggage, although hats and gloves are often available at the Christmas markets.

In addition, make several copies of your passport and important travel documents. Keep one or two of them with you separate from the originals in case your documents are stolen. Leave another at home with someone who could send them to you if necessary.

Here’s a suggested women’s packing list for a one-week European Christmas markets river cruise. Please feel free to modify it as necessary and enjoy your trip.

Christmas Markets River Cruise Packing List

thick waterproof ski parka or down coat
warm hat
gloves
glove liners
warm scarf
neck gaiter
several pairs of warm socks (thick and thin)
thermal tops and bottoms or silk long underwear
comfortable waterproof boots with good treads for ice, snow and cobblestones
leggings or thermal pants
4-5 long-sleeved shirts - thermal if possible
thin microfiber jacket for layering under a parka
fleece jacket
jeans or water-resistant hiking pants
waterproof pants (in case of heavy rain)
down vest
sweater(s)
dress slacks for dinners if needed
dressy blouses or festive sweaters for dinners if needed
fashion scarves
comfortable walking shoes or sneakers
dress shoes for dinner if needed
pajamas
travel clock
cell phone/charger
foldable bag for tours and shore excursions
foldable duffle bag for Christmas markets purchases
travel documents
passport
credit cards and ATM cards
earplugs
ziplock bags (several quart and gallon)
underwear
brush
toiletries
lip balm
toothbrush/toothpaste
prescriptions and medications
sunglasses
reading glasses
cameras and chargers
portable cell phone battery pack
waterproof cell phone case
crossbody anti-theft bag with security features, such as a Pacsafe bag
bubble wrap and tape
European power plugs (several)
portable power source and charger
waterproof backpack
compact travel umbrella or rain parka
travel water bottle
hand warmers