Joanna James
As one of the most engaging cruise experiences in Southeast Asia, an excursion on the Mekong River is bound to be the adventure of a lifetime. From clothing and footwear to other essentials, here's a rundown of the must-pack items for a cruise tour of the Mekong River.
Unlike cruise experiences in Europe, those who wish to sail down the Mekong Delta must pack for hot and humid conditions. This means there's no need to pack layers of clothing as a few casual items made from cotton or any other breathable fabric will suffice. Those who wish to remain cool during the cruise experience would also benefit from packing clothing and undergarments made from wicking fabrics, which absorb moisture from the body so that you do not sweat through your clothes. Wicking materials also weigh less than traditional fabrics.
Female visitors may want to throw in a sundress or a more "dressy" option for dinner time on board the cruise ships as the temperatures of nighttime allows one to wear something fancier than casual clothing. It is perfectly acceptable to stick to t-shirts, shorts, and other casual wear during dinner although those who wish to dress it up are welcome to bring some statement pieces.
Cruise ships, regardless of their size and scale, do not contain cabins or rooms for several pieces of luggage. This is why it is important to pack light when setting off on a Luang Prabang cruise with a local tour operator such as Mekong Kingdoms or any similar cruise company. Take a single suitcase or a day bag with enough clothing and other items that will last you the remainder of the boating excursion and leave all else behind.
Don't forget to pack a toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, and a bar of soap into a water-proof toiletries bag. Female hygiene products and deodorants are also necessities even if certain essentials are provided by the cruise company. Makeup and hair styling products will be of little use on the cruise so leave cosmetics behind as the confines of your air-conditioned cabin is the only location where you will be able to wear makeup anyway.
Accessories are also optional as it can be uncomfortable to wear jewellery on humid days. Although the risk of theft is low, leave valuable jewellery such as gold chains, bracelets, and the like in your hotel's safety deposit box.
Medications for allergies and other chronic conditions must be packed securely in water-proof containers in addition to sun tan lotion and sunglasses.
Two pairs of shoes will be more than enough for the duration of the cruise as a pair of walking shoes and sandals are all that's required. Pack a pair of sneakers but leave the socks behind as you won't be doing much walking during a Mekong River cruise unless the tour includes pit stops at local villages.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
