A Yangtze River Cruise is an exciting journey through the beauty of China’s longest and largest river. The beautiful scenery of the river and its islands and forested mountains stretches along the entire journey.
The Yangtze River Cruise offers travellers the unique opportunity to see ancient Chinese villages and towns, the spectacular Three Gorges, and a stunning array of wildlife. Many people plan their Yangtze River Cruise for weeks or months in advance and one of the most important factors to consider when prepping for this trip is what to wear.
It is important to determine the kind of cruise you are taking and decide what clothes best suit it. Travellers taking a luxury cruise with myriad amenities would have different clothing requirements than those taking a moderate or budget-friendly cruise. Having the right clothing and gear can make all the difference in terms of comfort and having a pleasant experience. Here is what to wear on a Yangtze River Cruise.
Layered Clothing
The weather in China can be unpredictable with temperatures ranging from hot and humid to cool and windy, so layered clothing is essential. In the summer months, light, breathable materials like cotton or linen are best. Pack light sweaters or cardigans for cooler evenings and a windbreaker for windy afternoons. In the winter months, a warm coat and hat, along with thermal undergarments, should be added for colder days.
Comfortable Shoes
Walking is an integral part of taking a Yangtze River Cruise, visiting bustling towns and exploring historical sites. Comfortable, supportive, and waterproof shoes are a must. Many cruise companies provide complimentary excursions for a truly immersive experience, so make sure your shoes match the itinerary. This could mean bringing a pair of walking shoes, sandals, or even sports shoes.
Swimwear, Sunhat and Sunglasses
Yangtze cruises offer passengers the opportunity to enjoy a number of activities, such as swimming in the river and sunbathing on the beach. Pack a swimming costume in case you decide to take a dip or enjoy a relaxing day on the deck. A sun hat and sunglasses are also essential items and can offer protection from the blazing tropical sun.
Clothing for the Evening
Most cruises provide formal evening events for guests to mix and mingle with other travellers. While you can opt for casual attires such as trousers and a collared shirt or a nice dress, some cruises also offer more formal events such as casino nights and gala dinners. If you plan to attend such events, pack a slightly more formal outfit such as a nice cocktail dress or a three-piece suit.
Appropriate Accessories
On the cruise, it is important to dress appropriately, which means no overly revealing clothing. Accessories and jewellery should be kept to a minimum and all items should be appropriate for the cruise atmosphere. Make sure that any accessories can be removed easily and securely during any excursions or activities.
Relaxed and Functional Attire
Because of the unpredictable weather, it is important to wear clothes that are comfortable and functional. Opt for lightweight and wrinkle-resistant fabrics as they can dry quickly and can be packed easily in your suitcase. Don’t forget to bring a raincoat and an umbrella, just in case.
Weather Proof Pack
Pack a good weatherproof bag or suitcase to keep your belongings safe and dry in case of rain. Keep all items prepared for any kind of weather in your weatherproof pack and you’ll be ready to go on any kind of escapade.
Protective Clothing
Protective clothing is essential when visiting outdoor sites and some of the popular tourist attractions on the Yangtze River. A light raincoat, rubber boots and insect repellent are essential items. As with all clothing items, they should be practical and comfortable.
Insect Repellent
Insects can be a nuisance but you don’t have to suffer the bites. Make sure to pack some insect repellent and anti-itc cream to keep those pesky bugs away. A good set of insect repellent sprays and repellent creams can be found in many pharmacies or stores in your home city.
Pre-Treat Clothing with Anti-Chafing Products
Long-sleeved shirts, trousers and shorts made of light fabrics such as cotton and linen can be great staples to pack for your Yangtze River Cruise. However, they can be prone to chafing so try pre-treating them with anti-chafing products prior to the trip. This can help reduce friction and keep you comfortable during your travels.
