This trip was a press trip with Virgin Voyages, but all packing mistakes, lessons and recommendations here are entirely my own.
I thought I knew how to pack for a holiday, but this was my first-ever cruise, sailing on Scarlet Lady. I spent hours debating whether I needed a ballgown or just my pyjamas, watched countless videos, and read every blog I could find — and I still made mistakes.
If you’re staring at an empty suitcase right now, don’t panic. This Virgin Voyages packing list is based on my actual experience at sea, and it’s designed to help you avoid overpacking while making sure you have all the clever essentials. Everything here is written from a genuine beginner’s point of view.
Virgin Voyages is different from traditional cruise lines. There are no formal nights or stuffy dress codes. It is all about ‘relaxed luxury’ and feeling like yourself. Here is exactly what needs to go in your bag.
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My Experience with Sea Sickness
I have to be honest with you. My first 24 hours onboard were not glamorous. I suffered from terrible vertigo and dizziness.
I didn’t expect the ship to move so much and ended up at the medical centre getting tablets for sea sickness. Not exactly how I imagined the start of my first cruise.
If you want even more tips for surviving your first days at sea, check out my first cruise survival guide.
This is why I am so passionate about this Virgin Voyages packing list. You must prepare for motion sickness even if you feel fine on land. Having a ‘survival kit’ in your cabin will save your holiday.
| Product | Why I reccomend it |
| Sea-Band Wristbands | Natural acupressure that really helps with vertigo. |
| Non-Drowsy Sickness tablets | Better than standard tablets as it won’t make you sleepy. |
| Ginger Chew Sweets | Perfect for settling your stomach quickly. |
| Motion Sickness Patches | These stay behind your ear for up to 72 hours. |
Staying Connected: Why You Need an eSIM
Staying connected at sea can be very expensive. Most UK phone plans charge a fortune for maritime roaming. This is when your phone connects to the ship’s satellite network.
I highly recommend adding a travel eSIM to your Virgin Voyages packing list. I personally use Airalo for all my trips. You can download a digital SIM card before you even leave home. It is much cheaper than using your standard network provider.
An eSIM works beautifully when you are in port or near the coast. It allows you to use Google Maps and social media easily. However, remember that most eSIMs do not work in the middle of the ocean.
For sea days, you should rely on the ship’s Wi-Fi. Switch your ‘primary’ SIM off to avoid accidental charges.
The ‘Must-Have’ Red Outfit for Scarlet Night
You cannot have a Virgin Voyages packing list without mentioning Scarlet Night. This is the biggest event of the voyage. The entire ship turns red for one night. Everyone wears their best crimson outfits for the party.
Some people go full glamour in a red cocktail dress. Others keep it casual with a red jumpsuit or simple shorts. I saw everything from red sequins to red capes! Whatever you choose, make sure you feel comfortable dancing in it.
I suggest packing a red accessory like a headband or earrings too. It helps pull the look together. Don’t worry about being ‘too much.’ On Virgin, there is no such thing as too much!
Cabin Organisation: Small Space Heroes
Cruise cabins are masterpieces of design, but they are very compact. To keep your sanity, you need a few hacks. I wish I had known about these before my first trip.
One of the top items on my Virgin Voyages packing list is heavy-duty magnetic hooks. The cabin walls and even the ceilings are metal! You can hang your hats, bags, and lanyards on the walls. It saves so much precious counter space.
I also recommend a hanging toiletry bag. Space in the bathroom is very limited. Having everything visible and reachable is a total game-changer.
| Item | Why you need it |
| Magnetic Hooks | Hangs bags and wet swimwear on metal walls. |
| Packing Cubes | Keeps your clothes organised in the small drawers. |
| Over-door Organiser | Perfect for storing shoes or suncream. |
| Multi-plug Adapter | Virgin has several ports, but more is better! |
Footwear: Practicality Meets Style
You will walk a lot more than you expect. Those long ship corridors are no joke! My Virgin Voyages packing list focuses on versatile shoes.
Bring a pair of comfortable white trainers for exploring ports. For the evening, a pair of wedge sandals is better than thin heels. The ship can sway, and you want to stay upright!
Don’t forget flip-flops or sliders for the pool area. The deck can get very hot under the sun. If you plan to use the gym or “The Runway” track, pack sturdy running shoes. I suggest bringing at least three pairs of shoes in total.
What to Wear for the PJ Party
Virgin Voyages is famous for its PJ party on the first night. This is not a “robe and slippers” kind of event. It is a high-energy party on the deck!
I suggest adding a fun pyjama set to your Virgin Voyages packing list. Think bright colours or silky fabrics. Many people wear themed onesies or even vintage silk robes. It is the perfect way to break the ice with other sailors.
| Cruise Essentials Before You Go eSIM: Airalo Travel Insurance: SafetyWing VPN: NordVPN Airport Transfer: GetTransfer.com |
Tech, Beauty and Practical Extras
Technology makes your life easier on the ship. While you get a “Band” for your door, you still need gear. A portable power bank is essential for long port days. You don’t want your phone to die while taking photos!
I also suggest a waterproof phone pouch. This is great for boat excursions or beach days. It protects your phone from sand and salt water.
For beauty, bring frizz-control hair serum. The sea air can be very humid. Check your Virgin Voyages packing list for a collapsible laundry bag too. Keeping your dirty clothes separate makes packing at the end much easier.
What You Do NOT Need to Pack
This part of my Virgin Voyages packing list will save you so much suitcase space. Many people ask about hair and clothes care.
First, you do not need to pack a hairdryer. Every cabin has one supplied in the drawer. It is actually quite powerful and works well.
Second, you do not need to bring an iron. Irons are actually a fire hazard and are prohibited on the ship. Instead, you can use the communal ironing rooms on each deck. You can even ask for a steamer to be brought to your room. Or, better yet, just pack some wrinkle release spray.
You also don’t need to bring beach towels. The ship provides plenty of plush pool towels for you to use. Leave these bulky items at home!
FAQs
Do you need formal clothes on Virgin Voyages?
No. Virgin Voyages has no formal nights or dress codes. Smart casual is more than enough, except for Scarlet Night if you want to dress up.
Can you buy sea sickness tablets onboard?
Yes, but options are limited and more expensive. It’s far better to pack remedies before you sail.
Are irons allowed on Virgin Voyages?
No. Irons are prohibited for safety reasons, but communal ironing rooms are available on each deck.
Do I need to bring a swimsuit?
Yes! Bring your own swimsuit for the pool, hot tubs or spa. You’ll want to be ready to enjoy the water and deck areas as soon as you board.
Are power outlets compatible with UK plugs?
Virgin Voyages cabins have US-style outlets, so you’ll need a plug adapter. I recommend bringing a multi-plug adapter if you have several devices to charge at once.
Final Packing Checklist
- Red outfit for Scarlet Night.
- Fun PJs for the deck party.
- Magnetic hooks for the cabin walls.
- Sea sickness remedies (don’t risk it!).
- Reusable water bottle for hydration.
- Power strip (non-surge) for all your gadgets.
- Small backpack for port excursions.
I hope this Virgin Voyages packing list makes your prep much easier. You can also read my full Virgin Voyages personal review to see the ship in action.
Have an amazing time on the high seas!
