#5 From Pajama Drama to Packing Savvy: My Wardrobe Tips for Cruise Ship Crew

If you read my last blog post, you know all about my less-than-glamorous debut in black satin sleeping pants during my very first cruise ship contract. Yes, that unforgettable mishap taught me a swift and somewhat hilarious lesson about packing for life as an Adult Animator. While our Entertainment Department provides an amazing array of uniforms and costumes for themed parties, I quickly learned that "provided" doesn't always cover every single sparkling, color-specific, or themed garment you might need for those incredible nightly events.

So, to save you from your own potential "pajama drama" (or any other wardrobe woes!), I'm here to unpack some crucial packing insights I gained from that rather amusing ordeal.

1. The "Never Assume, Always Ask" Golden Rule

This is my #1 takeaway. Before your contract, don't just rely on general statements. Get specific!

 * Who to Ask: While your coordinator might have general info, sometimes they don't know the nitty-gritty of every costume requirement. It’s often better to ask someone already working onboard in your role.

 * Making Contact (The Challenge): Finding an onboard colleague before you embark can be tricky, as you usually don't meet until you're already there. Try asking your coordinator if they can connect you with someone from your team, though they might not be allowed to share contacts. If they can, your life will be much easier!

2. The "Personal Party Wardrobe" Must-Haves

Based on my scramble in Abu Dhabi, here are some versatile essentials that often pop up in themed party requirements:

 * Versatile Basics: White pants (or a versatile white skirt/dress) and white sneakers, Black Pants and Black formal shoes are often the most basic and frequently needed, though this can vary by company. 

 * Color Pop Essentials: A few solid-colored tops (red, blue, green) that can be mixed and matched for flag nights or other color themes. Think versatile pieces you can dress up or down.

 * Sparkle & Shine: Don't forget the accessories! Body shimmer, face gems, a versatile statement necklace, or fun earrings can transform a basic outfit into a party-ready look for those glamorous nights. 

3. The "Comfort & Coverage" Undergarment Strategy

Some provided costumes onboard might be surprisingly uncomfortable or revealing. Be prepared to ensure your comfort and confidence:

 * Essential Layers: Bring basic undergarments to provide extra coverage. Think black, white, and nude tube tops.

 * Armpit Comfort: If you're like me and prefer your armpits not to be exposed especially at work, prepare some tight-fitting tops, preferably made of stretchy cloth. Long-sleeve or short-sleeve, as you prefer. I'd recommend having both, just in case.

 * Seamless Solutions: Boyleg shorts (seamless ones are best!) are also great for wearing under shorter or sheer costumes.

4. Financial Savvy for Onboard Emergencies

Unexpected purchases will happen. Be ready.

 * Access to Funds: Payday isn't a day after you arrive; it's usually after a month. Make sure you have money accessible. A credit card that works abroad is ideal.

 * Cash vs. Card: While having some local currency in cash is good for small purchases, having funds on a card is generally safer and more convenient for larger, unexpected shopping sprees. You might need a few things you'd never guess, so having money on hand (or easily accessible) for incidentals is crucial.

5. The Pre-Embarkation Checklist

My biggest regret was selling off my perfectly good wardrobe before leaving. Learn from my mistake!

 * Analyze Your Wardrobe: Go through your closet with a critical eye. Do you have versatile white pieces, specific color items, or comfortable but stylish shoes that could double for party wear? Don't assume they won't be needed just because you're getting "costumes." Some of your pieces might be an actual gem that you'll sorely miss!

 * Versatile Gems: Think about dresses too. An LBD (Little Black Dress) which you already have and a long dress for formal nights (one you can actually walk comfortably in!) are great versatile pieces.

 * Luggage Limits: We're often limited to around 40kg of luggage, which for a female, can feel like just the basics. So every item needs to earn its place by being versatile enough to double as casual wear for going out on port days.

6. Pickiness vs. Practicality: Your Onboard Shopping Reality

If you are as picky as I am with clothes, believe me, it's a harsh reality to compromise when you're already onboard. Save yourself from that pain!

 * Come Prepared: It is far better to arrive with more options, especially for specific requirements, than to have to settle for whatever is available in a foreign port under pressure. My Abu Dhabi dash taught me that while I prefer quality and affordability, necessity means you might just have to buy what's there.

7. Dressing for the Job: Practicality Over Perfection

Always remember, you will be working! Whatever you wear, especially for parties you're hosting, you should be able to work in them.

 * Functionality First: That stunning dress with a long train might look amazing, but if you're going to be constantly stepped on (as one of my colleagues discovered), it's inappropriate for a working occasion. You're there to entertain, not to manage your dress for the whole party!

 * Costume Comfort: If the company-provided costumes are uncomfortable or don't fit well, you can always communicate this to your superior. However, manage your expectations. Not all companies have every body size in mind for every costume, and sometimes, colleagues might not willingly yield a well-fitting costume just to accommodate you, as they might prefer it too. Be prepared with your own undergarment solutions (as per point 3) to adapt.

Ultimately, this journey from pajama drama to packing savvy is all about empowering you to step onto that ship with confidence, ready to shine in every role – whether it's leading a themed party or exploring a new port.

Now that I've shared my 'unpacked' wisdom, I'm curious: What's the most unexpected item you've ever had to pack for a unique job or trip? Or, have you had a memorable wardrobe misstep that turned into a hilarious lesson learned? Drop your stories and savvy tips in the comments below – let's build a community of brilliantly prepared adventurers built from misadventures!

Until the next UNPACKING,

ERBE