By Heidi Sarna.
I've taken more than 125 cruises during my traveling life so far, many small-ship cruises carrying fewer than 100 passengers. Hands down, these are my favorites. Thus, why QuirkyCruise was hatched.
Among the many kinds of small ships out there, barge cruises are among my very favorites. They're intimate in size, quirky in design and style, and focused on the heritage of the region, along with fine food and wine on board. What's not to love? (Ok, the price, they're very expensive!)
And so, I'd say I'm more than qualified to offer you my top barge cruise packing tips.
My packing tips apply to canal barging no matter what the itinerary. The vast majority of canal barges ply the canals of France, while a few hotel barges cruise the Thames River in England (like the Magna Carta below), the Caledonian Canal in Scotland, and a handful of canals and canal-like waterways in other parts of Europe.
Heidi's Barge Cruise Packing Tips
Once you've decided on a barge cruise of your dreams, consider packing these 13 things that I never leave home without (and totally skip bringing the three at the end of this post)!
1. Comfortable Walking Shoes
As you’ll be touring in port, whether on centuries-old cobblestone streets or along the earthen paths of a vineyard; walking (or jogging or cycling) along the tow paths that run parallel to most canals (from where canal barges were once towed by human and animal labor); or moving up and down the stairs of the barge itself (there are usually two or three levels); a good pair of walking shoes or sneakers are key. I wince when I see travelers in flip-flops or spindly heels. Comfort (and safety) are key.
2. Basic Meds
Bring the basics that work for you – in my case, it’s ibuprofen, cough syrup and bandaids.
Canal barges are too small to have any medical personnel on board (though crew members would know basic first-aid and be on hand to call for an ambulance), and so if you need basic pain relievers, for instance, it’ll be much more convenient to carry your own than trying to find an open pharmacy on shore somewhere.
3. Cross Body, Waist Bag or Small Backpack
When it comes to a day bag, the key is for it to be lightweight and not bulky. You don’t want to be shlepping around a big heavy backpack. I always go for a cross body sling bag that I can also wear around my waist; it's great whether walking, cycling or sitting in a minivan on tour.
4. Large Scarf or Sarong
In France, and other parts of Europe, when touring cathedrals, women will often be advised to cover their shoulders or legs if wearing mini skirts or shorts. A pretty scarf or thin sarong comes in handy for covering up when needed.
I never travel without several light-weight cotton scarves, most of which come from India, for the touring purposes discussed above, and also to zhuzh up an outfit at dinner. I’ve even used my Indian scarfs to sit on, as a small blanket or beach towel, when a bench or chair isn’t available.
5. Sunglasses & Hat
This goes in the “duh” column — but can’t hurt to repeat it — don’t forget to pack your sunglasses. And if you’re used to wearing a hat of some kind to protect yourself from the sun, then definitely pack a baseball cap, floppy hat or visor.
6. Device Chargers & Adaptors
This is Captain Obvious territory, but don’t forget your device chargers. Canal barges are not the most high-tech vessels out there, by design; their old-time-y-ness is part of the appeal. Be sure to bring an adaptor that allows American-style plugs (two flat prongs) to fit into continental European outlets (which take two round prongs).
RELATED: Here are more details on adapters and what to bring!
RELATED: Heidi shares 5 Quirky packing hacks.
7. Sunscreen & Bug Spray
Particularly because canal cruising happens in the spring to late summer months, always pack sunscreen and insect repellent. The later, especially if you plan on scenic strolling along the canals.
8. Earplugs & Eye Mask
It’s always a good idea to bring ear plugs and eye masks, especially if you're a light sleeper. As barges are small by design, you’ll be close to the shore and the action on the deck above the cabins, and thus may be within earshot of ambient noise too.
9. Small Foldable Umbrella
This is for rain and for the scorching heat that you’ll likely encounter summers in Europe, especially when barge cruising in July and August.
Your barge may have umbrellas to borrow, but they’ll probably be the full-sized kind that are not convenient to carry around on a walking tour.
In lieu of an umbrella, you may prefer a light-weight rain poncho, the kind with a hood and enough material to go over your backpack etc (I find these too warm and sticky, but some travelers like them).
10. Exercise Bands
If you’re the person who needs to maintain their work-out routines on vacation, then a set of work-out resistance bands is a great travel accessory. My husband always carries them on trips. You can fasten them to a door know or bed post, or just use them between your limbs.
RELATED: Here are 5 tips for staying active on a barge cruise.
11. Hobbies
If you're not the type you can just sit and watch the world glide by, then bring your paints, pencils, sketch pads, knitting or whatever hobby gear makes you happy!
12. Bathing Suit
Surprisingly, many hotel barges have hot tubs up on deck, so definitely pack your swimming costume if a soak while watching the scenic world float by is your cup of tea.
RELATED: We've Reviewed 10 Barges Cruises You'll Want to Consider, HERE.
13. Layers
Might go without saying, but let's say it. Layers are always the way to go with traveling. While Europe in the summer is usually hot; barge cruise on the Thames River in England might not be if you're there in say May. Of course, check the weather forecast before you go, but no matter, I always bring a few long-sleeved tops that I can layer, plus a light (but warm) fleece and my beloved scarves if things get chilly!
Things You Won’t Need
Any useful packing list will also point out what not to bring. In that regard, my barge cruise packing tips include these three things you shouldn't bother with.
1. Fancy Duds
Can leave the dinner jackets and fussy dresses at home unless you truly like dressing up — then go for it! But it's not necessary.
Barge cruises are casual — I would say, casually elegant to be precise. More casual than your typical Europe river cruise, as barge cruises are like traveling on your own private boat with friends. I’m not saying it's ok to wear exercise shorts and t-shirts at dinner; but actually, dressy-ish shorts are fine at mealtime on a barge cruise. So are jeans, slacks and casual skirts and summery dresses. Wear what you’d wear to a casual dinner with friends on a Saturday night. That said, like any restaurant, some folks do like to dress up a bit, if you do, then you be you! Many barge cruises will have a captain's dinner one evening, where the crew often dresses up (trading their polo shirts for something fancier), so you may also want to do the same.
2. Bulky Luggage
Most barge cabins are quite compact, that means there’s not lots of space to stow large stiff suitcases. Many barges have captain’s beds (meaning, there are drawers under the beds and not open space for things like suitcases). It’s best to bring soft-sided luggage that can be stored in tight spaces.
3. Gym Clothes
Canal barges do not have space for fitness equipment like stationary bikes or treadmills. Yes, most carry bicycles on board for pedaling along the tow paths that line the canals, so do be prepared for that kind of activity. For me, this means jeans or shorts; I don’t bring my work-out gear. (Though stretchy yoga pants are definitely useful as your waistline expands over the week thanks to the focus on dining, especially the desserts and cheese you’ll be feasting on!) Now, if you're a runner, then of course DO bring your running shoes and clothes.
Hope You Found My Barge Cruise Packing Tips and Insights Helpful!
Drop me a line if you have questions — [email protected]!
Interested in a Barge Cruise?
Family-owned Barge Lady Cruises is an expert in barge cruising in France. The specialist travel agency was founded in 1985 and the Barge Lady team has sampled hundreds of barges over the years.
Barge Lady Cruises can help you choose the best canal barge cruise for your next dream vacation. Remember, barge cruises are super convenient; you won’t have to lift a finger! Pricing is all-inclusive, covering all meals, wine and spirits, guided excursions and entry fees, plus transfers to/from a central point (ie often Paris).
To show your interest in a 6-night barge cruise offered by Barge Lady Cruises, please tell us a bit more about what you’re looking for and we’ll be happy to get back to you right away.
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HEIDI SARNA
