I have a confession. I am a chronic overpacker. Every single cruise, I bring too much. And every single cruise, I end up wearing the same three outfits in rotation while half my suitcase sits untouched.
Learn from my mistakes. Here's what you actually need for a VV sailing, including some queer-specific additions that most packing lists won't mention.
The Basics (What You'll Actually Wear)
Daytime: Casual resort wear. Think swimsuits, shorts, tank tops, coverups, sandals. VV is aggressively casual during the day. Nobody is dressing up for lunch. You're on vacation.
Evening: Here's where VV differs from traditional cruise lines. There are no formal nights. None. Zero. The fanciest you need to get is "nice bar on a Saturday night." A good pair of jeans or chinos, a nice shirt, maybe a fun blazer if that's your thing. Dresses, jumpsuits, whatever makes you feel good. But leave the ties and gowns at home.
📌 Good to know: No formal nights on VV. Ever. The dress code tops out at "nice bar on a Saturday night."
Swimwear: Bring at least two sets. You'll be in and out of the pool and hot tubs constantly, and a wet swimsuit from the morning isn't fun to put back on after lunch.
Shoes: Comfortable walking shoes for port days (you'll cover more ground than you think). Sandals or flip-flops for the ship. One pair of nicer shoes for evenings out. That's three pairs total and I promise that's enough.
The Scarlet Night Outfit
This deserves its own section because it's that important. Scarlet Night is VV's signature themed party and the dress code is red. You need something red.
This can be as simple as a red t-shirt or as elaborate as a full scarlet sequin ensemble. But you need something. People go all out and it's a blast. Don't overthink it, just make sure red is in the suitcase.
🔥 Don't miss: Scarlet Night is the highlight of the voyage for a lot of sailors. Pack the red outfit. You will regret being the person without one.
What You Don't Need
I'm going to save you suitcase space right now.
- Formal wear. Bring only what you genuinely want to wear. But don't plan on needing any formal wear at all. VV doesn't do formal nights. Casual is always welcome. Be yourself.
- A dozen outfits. You'll live in swimsuits and shorts during the day. You need maybe 3-4 evening outfits for a week-long cruise. You can repeat. Nobody is tracking.
- A hair dryer. The cabin has one.
- Towels for the pool. They're provided on every deck.
Queer-Specific Packing
Here's the stuff the generic packing lists don't cover.
Gender-affirming swimwear. If you wear it, bring it. VV's pool areas are relaxed and inclusive, and you should feel comfortable. There are some great brands making swimwear specifically designed to be both affirming and functional in the water. Pack what makes you feel like yourself.
Comfortable port day shoes. Some ports are more walkable than others, and if you're exploring neighborhoods (especially in Med ports), you'll want shoes that can handle cobblestones and hills. This isn't queer-specific exactly, but I mention it because queer neighborhoods in port cities are often worth seeking out, and they're usually in the walkable historic areas.
Pride accessories. Totally optional. You genuinely will not need a pride flag or pin to feel welcome on VV. The ship's vibe takes care of that. But if wearing a subtle pride bracelet or pin is part of how you travel, bring it. You'll see plenty of others doing the same.
📌 Heads up: This applies to everyone, but I'm putting it here because I know our community. You did not invest in that skincare routine to let the Caribbean sun destroy it. SPF 50, reapply constantly, and bring your full routine. Your cabin has plenty of counter space.
💡 Pro tip: If you know, you know. The handheld shower wand pops right off and the connection is a standard fitting. Whatever personal attachment you prefer will fit right on. Pack it. Thank me later.
📌 Heads up: Bring medications and prescriptions — more than you think you'll need, in your carry-on, in the original packaging. This is travel 101 but it's worth repeating. International ports can make pharmacy runs complicated.
Tech and Gadgets
Portable charger. You'll use your phone for the VV app (it's how you check schedules, make restaurant reservations, and find events), plus photos, plus staying connected. A portable charger means you never have to choose between exploring and having a dead phone.
The Band. VV gives you a wristband called The Band that's your room key, your payment method, and your boarding pass. It's waterproof and actually pretty stylish. You don't need to bring a lanyard for a cruise card like on other lines.
A small crossbody or fanny pack for port days. Keep your hands free. Carry your phone, sunscreen, and a credit card. That's it.
Headphones. For the gym, for the balcony, for drowning out your neighbors if they're having a louder night than you.
Cabin Stuff
Your VV cabin is nicer than you expect. Most cabins are Sea Terraces with a balcony and a hammock, mood lighting you can customize with a tablet, and a really excellent shower.
Bring something cozy for the balcony. A light hoodie or wrap. The ocean breeze at night is perfect hammock weather but it can get cool. You'll want to spend time out there.
Your own toiletries. VV provides basics, but if you have preferences, bring your own. Especially shampoo and conditioner if you have specific hair needs.
The "How Much Can I Fit?" Reality Check
For a 7-night cruise, I'd aim for:
- 2-3 swimsuits
- 4-5 casual daytime outfits
- 3-4 evening outfits
- 1 Scarlet Night red outfit
- 3 pairs of shoes (walking, casual, evening)
- Workout clothes if you use the gym (VV's gym is solid and included)
- Your toiletries and skincare
- Tech essentials
- One light layer for cool evenings
That all fits in a standard carry-on and one checked bag. I know because I've finally, after many voyages, learned to pack this way instead of bringing my entire closet.
The Real Packing Secret
Here's what nobody tells you. VV is a place where you can be exactly who you are. Pack the clothes that make you feel like the best version of yourself, whatever that looks like. That's the whole point.
The thing that matters most isn't what's in your suitcase. It's your mindset. Pack what makes you feel like you.
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Brandon
Queer-owned travel advisor obsessed with Virgin Voyages. First Mate certified, FORA partnered, and here to help you plan an incredible cruise.